I mind me of a little song. If it please you to hear it—
Several of the Guests.
Thanks, thanks, Gudmund Alfson!
[They close around him, some sitting, others standing. Margit leans against a tree in front on the right. Signë stands on the left, near the house.
Gudmund.
[Sings.]
I rode into the wildwood,
I sailed across the sea,
But 'twas at home I wooed and won
A maiden fair and free.
It was the Queen of Elfland,
She waxed full wroth and grim:
Never, she swore, shall that maiden fair
Ride to the church with him.
Hear me, thou Queen of Elfland.
Vain, vain are threat and spell;
For naught can sunder two true hearts
That love each other well!
An Old Man.
That is a right fair song. See how the young swains cast their glances thitherward! [Pointing towards the Girls.] Aye, aye, doubtless each has his own.
