violets, freshly gathered. A subdued smile lights up her face. As
soon as she looks in, her features become distorted with horror.
She takes half a step backwards, holding her hand before her eyes,
as if to ward off a blow. A feeble cry, filled with pain, as if
torn by force from the throat is expressed in the word No!]

KRISTRUN. It is I you love! It is I you love!

INGOLF [tears himself away]. Let me talk to Hrafnhild alone.

Hadda Padda stands motionless in the doorway, so that Kristrun has
to pass her.

INGOLF. May I close the door and talk to you? [Hadda Padda moves
within the door frame, and leans against it.]

INGOLF. Hadda, you have seen now that I am no longer worthy of
your love.

HADDA PADDA. I have seen nothing. [Throws the bouquet on the
table, and sits down on the chaise-longue, with her face turned
toward the window.]

INGOLF. Don't say that, Hrafnhild. Even forgiveness demands
return, and I cannot return yours.

HADDA PADDA [_Her whole frame trembling_].

INGOLF. I didn't think you could mistake my attitude these last
few days. [_Both keep silent._]