Selma.
[Calls from the circle.] Learned judge, what shall the owner of this forfeit do?
Erik.
[Unnoticed, to Heire.] It's Stensgård's! Think of something amusing.
Heire.
That forfeit? Hee-hee, let me see; he might, for example—yes—he shall make a speech!
Selma.
It's Mr. Stensgård's forfeit.
Erik.
Mr. Stensgård is to make a speech.
Stensgård.
Oh no, spare me that; I came off badly enough last night.
The Chamberlain.
Excellently, Mr. Stensgård; I know something of public speaking.
Lundestad.
[To Heire.] If only he doesn't put his foot in it now.
Heire.
Put his foot in it? Hee-hee! You're a sharp one! That's an inspiration! [In an undertone to Stensgård.] If you came off badly last night, why not put yourself right again to-night?
Stensgård.
[Seized with a sudden idea.] Lundestad, here is the opportunity!
