LADY INGER. What mean you? NILS LYKKE. Inger Gyldenlöve might have a mind to be—a king’s mother. LADY INGER. No, no! Give me back my child, and let who will have the crowns. But know you so surely that Count Sture is willing——? NILS LYKKE. Of that he will himself assure you. LADY INGER. Himself? And when? NILS LYKKE. Even now. OLAF SKAKTAVL. How now? LADY INGER. What say you? NILS LYKKE. In one word, Count Sture is in Östråt. OLAF SKAKTAVL. Here? NILS LYKKE. [_To_ Lady Inger.] You have doubtless heard that another rode through the gate along with me? The Count was my attendant. LADY INGER. [_Softly._] I am in his power. I have no longer any choice. [_Looks at him and says:_ ’Tis well, Sir Councillor—you shall have full assurance of my support. NILS LYKKE. In writing? LADY INGER. As you will. [_Goes to the table on the left, sits down, and takes writing materials from the drawer._ NILS LYKKE. [_Aside, standing by the table on the right._] At last, then, I win! LADY INGER. [_After a moment’s thought, turns suddenly in her chair to_ OLAF SKAKTAVL _and whispers._] Olaf Skaktavl—I am certain of it now—Nils Lykke is a traitor! OLAF SKAKTAVL. [_Softly._] What? You think——? LADY INGER. He has treachery in his heart. [_Lays the paper before her and dips the pen in the ink._ OLAF SKAKTAVL. And yet you would give him a written promise that may be your ruin? LADY INGER. Hush; leave me to act. Nay, wait and listen first——[_Talks with him in a whisper._ NILS LYKKE.