Lady Inger.
In your power, you say?
Nils Lykke.
First of all, Lady Inger, I would beg you to lay no stress on any careless words I may have used concerning that which lies between us two. Think not that I have forgotten for a moment the wrong I have done you. Suppose, now, I had long purposed to make atonement, as far as might be, where I had sinned. Suppose it were for that reason I had contrived to have this mission assigned me.
Lady Inger.
Speak your meaning more clearly, Sir Councillor;—I cannot follow you.
Nils Lykke.
I can scarce be mistaken in thinking that you, as well as I, know of the threatened troubles in Sweden. You know, or at least you can guess, that this rising is of far wider aim than is commonly supposed, and you understand therefore that our King cannot look on quietly and let things take their course. Am I not right?
Lady Inger.
Go on.
Nils Lykke.
[Searchingly, after a short pause.] There is one possible chance that might endanger Gustav Vasa's throne
