Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Heinemann Volume 2).djvu/219



I offer myself and all my friends.

I almost fear 'twill not suffice. Now must I gather round me all the men I can fully trust. Dagfinn the Peasant, let a messenger set out forthwith for Halogaland; Vegard Væradal must be recalled.

[Who has been standing somewhat towards the back, in conversation with a man in travelling dress who has entered the hall, approaches and says with emotion:] Vegard cannot come, my lord. How know you that? I have even now had tidings of him. What tidings? That Vegard Væradal is slain. Slain! Who slew him? Andres Skialdarband, the Earl's friend. [A short pause; uneasy whispers pass among the men.