Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Heinemann Volume 2).djvu/259

 voice cried: "We have him!"All the lights went out!

Bishop Nicholas is even now dead.

[Fleeing to the right.] Pater noster—Pater noster   [Approaches, and says in a low voice.] Duke, I will not question what secret counsel you were hatching with the Bishop ere he died;—but from to-morrow must you give up your powers and dignities into my hands; I see clearly now that we two cannot go forward together. [Looks at him absently.] Go forward together? To-morrow I hold an Assembly in the Palace; then must all things be made clear between us. [Goes out to the right.

The Bishop dead and the letter burnt! A life full of doubt and strife and dread! Oh, could I but pray!—No—I must act; this evening must the stride be taken, once for all! [To ] Whither went the King?

[Terrified.] Christ save me,—what would you with him?