GUNNAR. Would that I had not! (Half aside.) But thou knowest, Sigurd,
he who loves overmuch, takes not always the manliest part. (Aloud.) I
had few men in my house, and none could be sure of his life when it was
known that Ornulf lay in the cove with a ship of war.
HIORDIS. One thing I know that ought first to be made safe, life
afterwards.
THOROLF. And that is----?
HIORDIS. Honour and fame among men.
GUNNAR. Hiordis!
SIGURD. It shall not be said of Gunnar that he has risked his honour
by doing this.
GUNNAR (sternly). None shall make strife between me and Ornulf's
kinsfolk!
HIORDIS (smiling). Hm; tell me, Sigurd--can thy ship sail with
any wind?
SIGURD. Ay, when it is cunningly steered.
HIORDIS. Good! I too will steer my ship cunningly, and make my way
whither I will.
(Retires towards the back.)
DAGNY (whispers, uneasily). Sigurd, let us hence--this very night!