Gustaf. Is that so? That's quick action.

Brask. It doesn't concern Your Highness? Good and well! But if he
stirs up the people?

Gustaf. Then I'll step in. Anything more?

Brask (after a pause). I ask you for heaven's sake not to plunge
the country into disaster again. It is not yet ripe for a new
faith. We are but reeds in the wind and can be bent--but when it
comes to the faith, or the Church--never!

Gustaf (holding out his hand to the Bishop). Maybe you are right!
But let us be enemies rather than false friends, Bishop Hans!

Brask. Be it so! But do not do what you will regret. Every stone
you tear out of the Church will be thrown at you by the people.

Gustaf. Don't force me to extremes, Your Grace, for then we shall
have the same horrible spectacle here as in Germany. For the last
time: are you willing to make concessions if the welfare of the
country is at stake?

Brask. The Church--

Gustaf. The Church comes first--very well! Good-bye!

[Exit Brask. Reenter the Constable.]

Gustaf. The Bishop has confirmed your statement, and that was