Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Heinemann Volume 2).djvu/214



Never have you had aught but good thereby. Earl Jon wrote to me praying that I would mediate on his behalf; he offered peace, but on terms dishonourable to the King. The war in Vermeland has weighed much upon your mind; had this matter been left to you, Earl Jon had come too lightly off. I can deal better with him.

'Twas our will to deal with him ourself.—And what answer made you?

Read my letter.

Give it me!

I deemed you had it.

Nay, you know better than that. Gregorius Jonsson was too swift of foot; when we came on board, the letter was gone.

[Turns to ] Sir Baron, give the King the letter.

[Coming close to him, uneasily.] Hearken Earl!

What now?