to be scorned and reviled fur the sake of truth. If so, you are
not worthy of such a splendid disaster. I thought you would
understand me, I counted on your help, for in you the fire is
still burning, but I see that the world is tempting you. Well,
follow the stream and be happy!

Olof. How could a man make over the age in which he is living?

Gert. That's what Luther has done.

Olof. How can one man check a stream?

Gert. Guide it, you fool--for we are the stream. The old are
stagnant mudpools, you don't need to check them, but don't let
them rot away or dry up; give them an outlet, and they'll flow
with the stream, too.

Olof. Yes, I understand you! You have bred a thought in my soul,
but that thought must be strangled in its birth, or it will kill
me.

Gert. Believe me, you will be a Daniel, and you will speak the
truth unto princes, and they will conspire to take your life; but
the Lord will protect you.--Now I can safely leave, for I see
lightnings flash from your eyes and tongues of fire flickering
over your head. (As he is leaving.) There comes the Lord of
Flies: don't let him defile your pure soul also.

Olof. Jesus help me!