Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Heinemann Volume 2).djvu/268



No crown is too wide for me!

It needs a God-sent right and a God-sent calling to wear the crown.

And know you so surely that you have a God-sent right?

I have God's own word for it.

Rest not too surely on that. Had the Bishop had time to speak—but that were bootless now; you would not believe me. Ay, truly you have mighty allies on high; but I defy you none the less! You will not reign by turns with me? Well—then must we try the last resort;—Håkon, let us two fight for it, man to man, with heavy weapons, for life or death!

Speak you in jest, my lord?

I speak for my life-work and for my soul's salvation!

Then is there small hope for the saving of your soul.

You will not fight with me? You shall, you shall!