_Broddi_.--And for the purpose that it come about in the smoothest
manner possible I need the fortifications of your see a day or two for
my men.

_Botolf_.--You will be welcome to use them, Broddi.

_Brand_.--In still another matter give me assistance, sir bishop! During
the hostilities that have lasted all these years a certain man who was
being led to execution summoned me before the tribunal of God.

_Botolf_.--For that the Church knows no other help than a general
indulgence and your living the rest of your natural life in peace.

_Brand_.--In peace? How is that possible now?

_Botolf_.--Blessed peace! when will you descend upon this blood-stained
earth?

_Broddi_ (_smiling_).--You must call out louder, my lord, to do some
good! The blessed peace has been stricken with deafness these times.

_Botolf_.--Oh wicked mockery!

_Broddi_.--Wicked indeed, if it were not true.

(_The cleric_ HELGI _enters quickly_.)

_Helgi_.--Kolbein the Young is riding toward Holar at this moment, with
a hundred men.