Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Heinemann Volume 2).djvu/272

 forgotten that we have spoken with sharp tongues this night.

[Looks hard at him for a moment, and says:] Next time, 'twill be with sharper tongues we speak. [Goes to the back.

[After a short pause.] He threatens! No, no, it cannot come to that. He must, he shall give way and do my will; I have need of that strong arm, that cunning brain.—Whatsoever courage and wisdom and strength there maybe in this land, all gifts that God has endowed men withal, are but granted them to my uses. For my service did all noble gifts fall to Duke Skule's share; to defy me is to defy Heaven; 'tis my duty to punish whosoever shall set himself up against Heaven's will—for Heaven has done so much for me.

[Enters from the back.] Be on your guard to-*night, my lord; the Duke has surely evil in his mind.

What say you?

What may he his drift, I know not; but sure am I that something is brewing.

Can he think to fall upon us? Impossible, impossible!

No, 'tis something else. His ships lie clear for sailing; he has summoned an Assembly on board them.