[ACT III.
THE FEAST AT SOLHOUG.
281
Knut.
Nay, Gudmund; sell your life dearly, man! Unbind us; we are ready to fight for you, one and all.
Erik.
[Looks out.] 'Twould be in vain; they are too many for us.
Signë.
Here they come. Oh Gudmund, Gudmund!
[The King's Messenger enters from the back, with his escort.
Messenger.
In the King's name I seek you, Gudmund Alfson, and bring you his behests.
Gudmund.
Be it so. Yet am I guiltless; I swear it by all that is holy!
Messenger.
We know it.
Gudmund.
What say you?
[Agitation amongst those present.
Messenger.
I am ordered to bid you as a guest to the King's house. His friendship is yours as it was before, and along with it he bestows on you rich fiefs.
