Falk [turning round in surprise].
Miss Svanhild!—well, I'll do the best I can. But think you I may trust implicitly To finding your petitions efficacious? Heaven, as you know, to faith alone is gracious— And though you've doubtless will enough for two To make me bid my peace of mind adieu, Have you the faith to carry matters through? That is the question.
Svanhild [half in jest].
Wait till sorrow comes, And all your being's springtide chills and numbs, Wait till it gnaws and rends you, soon and late, Then tell me if my faith is adequate.
[She goes across to the ladies. Mrs. Halm [aside to her].
Can you two never be at peace? you've made Poor Mr. Falk quite angry, I'm afraid.
[Continues reprovingly in a low voice. Miss Jay joins in the conversation. Svanhild remains cold and silent.
Falk [after a pause of reflection goes over to the summer-house, then to himself].
With fullest confidence her glances lightened.
Shall I believe, as she does so securely,
That Heaven intends—
