Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Heinemann Volume 1).pdf/110



Not on  side, mayhap. I have never been your enemy,—though, as a subject of the King of Denmark, I lacked not good cause.

I understand you. I have not been pliant enough. It has not proved so easy as some of you hoped to lure me over into your camp.—Yet methinks you have nought to complain of. My daughter Merete's husband is your country-man—further I cannot go. My position is no easy one, Nils Lykke!

That I can well believe. Both nobles and people here in Norway think they have an ancient claim on you—a claim, 'tis said, you have but half fulfilled.

Your pardon, Sir Councillor,—I account for my doings to none but God and myself. If it please you, then, let me understand what brings you hither.

Gladly, Lady Inger! The purpose of my mission to this country can scarce be unknown to you?

I know the mission that report assigns you. Our King would fain know how the Norwegian nobles stand affected towards him.