Olof. Let it go at that! But believe me, you would lose what now
puts you above me--the power to control your own will--and then
you would be less than I, and I could not respect you. Do you
see? It stakes us happy to overvalue each other; let us keep that
illusion.

Christine. Now I don't understand you at all, but I must trust
you, Olof. You are right!

Olof. Please leave me alone, Christine--I beg you!

Christine. Do I disturb you?

Olof. There are some very serious thoughts that occupy me. You
know, I expect something decisive to happen today. The King has
abdicated because the people would not do what he desired. To-day
I shall either reach my goal or have to start the fight all over
again.

Christine. May I not be happy to-day, Olof--on Midsummer Eve?

Olof. Why should you be so very happy to-day?

Christine. Why should I not--since I have been set free from
slavery and have become your wife?

Olof. Can you forgive me that my happiness is a little more sober
because it has cost me--a mother?