Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Heinemann Volume 1).pdf/329



Nay, Gudmund; sell your life dearly, man! Unbind us; we are ready to fight for you, one and all.

[Looks out.] 'Twould be in vain; they are too many for us.

Here they come. Oh Gudmund, Gudmund!

In the King's name I seek you, Gudmund Alfson, and bring you his behests.

Be it so. Yet am I guiltless; I swear it by all that is holy!

We know it.

What say you?

I am ordered to bid you as a guest to the King's house. His friendship is yours as it was before, and along with it he bestows on you rich fiefs.