Bishop Nicholas.
For your behoof.
Earl Skule.
Say you so?
Bishop Nicholas.
Before nightfall you will thank me.
[He moves away.
Håkon.
[Hands the Earl the parchment.] Read that, Earl Skule.
Earl Skule.
[Reads, looks in surprise at the King, and says in a low voice.] You break with Kanga the Young?
Håkon.
With Kanga whom I have loved more than all the world. From this day forth she must never more cross the King's path.
Earl Skule.
This that you do is a great thing, Håkon. Mine own memory tells me what it must cost.
Håkon.
Whoever is too dear to the King must away.—Tie up the letter. [Gives it to Ivar Bodde.
Bishop Nicholas.
[Bending over the chair.] You have made a great stride towards the Earl's friendship, my lord King.
Håkon.
[Holds out his hand to him.] I thank you, Bishop
