Stand up, Skule Bårdsson, if you be king! Lie not there to rule the land.
Peter.
If you scoff at my father, I will kill you.
Bård Bratte.
I shall be killed whatever betides; for me King Håkon will have no grace; for I was his thane, and deserted him for Skule's sake. Think of somewhat that may save us. No deed so desperate but I will risk it now.
A Vårbælg.
Could we but get over to the convent at Holm?
Paul Flida.
Better to Elgesæter.
Bård Bratte.
[With a sudden outburst.] Best of all to go down to Håkon's ship and bear away the King-child.
Paul Flida.
Are you distraught?
Bård Bratte.
No, no; 'tis our one hope, and easy enough to do. The Birchlegs are ransacking every house, and keeping watch on all the churches; they think none of us can have taken flight, since all the bridges are broken. There can be but few men on board the ships; when once we have his heir in our power, Håkon must grant us peace, else
