Gudmund.
Signë!
Signë.
Gudmund!
Gudmund.
But tell me—?
Messenger.
Your enemy, the Chancellor Audun Hugleikson, has fallen.
Gudmund.
The Chancellor!
Guests.
[To each other, in a half-whisper.] Fallen!
Messenger.
Three days ago he was beheaded at Bergen. [Lowering his voice.] His offence was against Norway's Queen.
Margit.
[Placing herself between Gudmund and Signë.]
Thus punishment treads on the heels of crime!
Protecting angels, loving and bright,
Have looked down in mercy on me to-night,
And come to my rescue while yet it was time.
Now know I that life's most precious treasure
Is nor worldly wealth nor earthly pleasure,
I have felt the remorse, the terror I know,
Of those who wantonly peril their soul,
To St. Sunniva's cloister forthwith I go.—
[Before Gudmund and Signë can speak.
Nay: think not to move me or control.
