Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Heinemann Volume 2).djvu/279



The great hall in Oslo Palace. ''is feasting with the Guard and his Chiefs. In front, on the left, stands the throne, where sits, richly attired, with a purple mantle and the royal circlet on his head. The supper-table, by which the guests are seated, stretches from the throne towards the background. Opposite to sit  and''. ''Some of the humbler guests are standing, to the right. It is late evening; the hall is brightly lighted. The banquet is drawing to a close; the men are very merry, and some of them drunk; they drink to each other, laugh, and all talk together.''

[Rises and strikes the table.] Silence in the hall; Jatgeir Skald will say forth his song in honour of King Skule.

[Stands out in the middle of the floor.

Duke Skule he summoned the Örething; when 'twas mass-time in Nidaros town; and the bells rang and swords upon bucklers clashed bravely when Duke Skule he donned the crown.

King Skule marched over the Dovrefjeld, his host upon snow-shoes sped;