Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Heinemann Volume 2).djvu/190



[Softly.] Good. [Takes out a sealed parchment.] Here is the letter. [Shaking his head.] Earl, Earl,—is this well bethought? What? It bears the King's seal. I am acting for the King's good. Then let the King himself reject the offer. That he will not, if he has his own way. His whole heart is bent on cowing the Ribbungs, therefore he is fain to secure himself on other sides. Your way may be wise,—but it is dangerous. Leave that to me. Take the letter, and bid Jostein sail forthwith. It shall be as you command. [Goes out to the right, and presently comes in again.