Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Heinemann Volume 2).djvu/177



For your behoof.

Say you so?

Before nightfall you will thank me.

[He moves away.

[Hands the the parchment.] Read that, Earl Skule.

[Reads, looks in surprise at the and says in a low voice.] You break with Kanga the Young?

With Kanga whom I have loved more than all the world. From this day forth she must never more cross the King's path.

This that you do is a great thing, Håkon. Mine own memory tells me what it must cost.

Whoever is too dear to the King must away.—Tie up the letter. [Gives it to

[Bending over the chair.] You have made a great stride towards the Earl's friendship, my lord King.

[Holds out his hand to him.] I thank you, Bishop