Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Heinemann Volume 2).djvu/301



And what should be my warranty that I did not feign?

Give up your calling in life; sing no more songs, and then will I believe you!

No, lord—that were to buy the crown too dear.

Bethink you well—'tis greater to be a king than a skald.

Not always.

'Tis but your unsung songs you must sacrifice!

Songs unsung are ever the fairest.

But I must—I must have one who can trust in me! Only one! I feel it—had I that one, I were saved!

Trust in yourself and you will be saved!

[Enters hastily.] King Skule, look to yourself! Håkon Håkonsson lies off Elgjarness with all his fleet!

Off Elgjarness! Then he is close at hand.