] Fallen!
MESSENGER.
Three days ago he was beheaded at Bergen. [Lowering his voice.]
His offence was against Norway's Queen.
MARGIT. [Placing herself between GUDMUND and SIGNE.]
Thus punishment treads on the heels of crime!
Protecting angels, loving and bright,
Have looked down in mercy on me to-night,
And come to my rescue while yet it was time.
Now know I that life's most precious treasure
Is nor worldly wealth nor earthly pleasure,
I have felt the remorse, the terror I know,
Of those who wantonly peril their soul,
To St. Sunniva's cloister forthwith I go.--
[Before GUDMUND and SIGNE can speak.
Nay: think not to move me or control.
[Places SIGNE's hand in GUDMUND's.
Take her then Gudmund, and make her your bride.
Your union is holy; God's on your side.
[Waving farewell, she goes towards the doorway on the left.
GUDMUND and SIGNE follow her, she stops them with a
motion of her hand, goes out, and shuts the door behind
her. At this moment the sun rises and sheds its light
in the hall.
GUDMUND.
Signe--my wife! See, the morning glow!
'Tis the morning of our young love. Rejoice!
SIGNE.
All my fairest of dreams and of memories I owe
To the strains of thy harp and the sound of thy voice.
My noble minstrel, to joy or sadness
Tune thou that harp as seems thee best;
There are chords, believe me, within my breast
To answer to thine, or of woe or of gladness.
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