all too short;—besides, the King will surely forgive me when he comes[Gives a start in pain
Peter.
You are suffering?
Bishop Nicholas.
I suffer not; but there is a ringing in mine ears, a twinkling and flickering before mine eyes
Peter.
'Tis the heavenly bells ringing you home, and the twinkling of the altar-lights God's angels have lit for you.
Bishop Nicholas.
Ay, sure 'tis so;—there is no danger if only they lag not with their prayers in thereFarewell; set forth at once with the letter.
Peter.
Shall I not first?
Bishop Nicholas.
Nay, go; I fear not to be alone.
Peter.
Well met again, then, what time the heavenly bells shall sound for me too.
[Goes out on the right.
Bishop Nicholas.
The heavenly bells,—ay, 'tis easy talking when you still have two stout legs to stand upon.—So much undone! But much will live after me, notwithstanding. I promised the Duke by my soul's salvation to give him Trond the Priest's
