Håkon.
The northern part stands vacant.
Earl Skule.
Bethink you that Andres Skialdarband[1] has also a charge in the north. They two are bitter foes;—Andres Skialdarband is of my following
Håkon.
[Smiling and rising.] And Vegard Væradal of mine. Therefore they must e'en make friends again, the sooner the better. Henceforth there must be no enmity between the King's men and the Earl's. Bishop Nicholas. Ha!—this may go too far. [Approaches, uneasy.
Earl Skule.
Your thoughts are wise and deep, Håkon.
Håkon.
[Warmly.] Earl Skule, to-day have I taken the kingdom from you—let your daughter share it with me! Earl Skule. My daughter! Margrete. Oh, God! Håkon. Margrete, will you be my Queen? [Margrete is silent.
Håkon.
[Takes her hand.] Answer me.
