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Ho, ho! So this is how it stands? Nay, Dame Margit, 'tis needless to put on such an air of wonder; now I understand everything.

[To ] But not a moment ago you said—? [Suddenly grasping the situation.] 'Twas Gudmund you meant!

[Astonished.] Yes, did you not know it! But what ails you, Margit?

[In an almost toneless voice.] Nay, nothing, nothing.

[To ] And this morning, when you made me give my word that I would stir no strife here to-night—you already knew that Gudmund Alfson was coming. Ha, ha, think not that you can hoodwink Knut Gesling! Signë has become dear to me. Even this morning 'twas but my hasty vow that drove me to seek her hand; but now—

[To ] He? Was  the wooer that was in your mind?

Hush, hush!