Oh, the vipers! And Madam Rundholmen has my letter! RINGDAL. What letter? STENSGÅRD. Oh, nothing. But it’s not too late! My dear Mr. Ringdal, shall you see the Chamberlain this evening? RINGDAL. In all probability. STENSGÅRD. Then tell him to think no more of those threats—he will understand; tell him I shall call to-morrow and explain everything. RINGDAL. You’ll call? STENSGÅRD. Yes, to prove to him——Ah! a proof! Look here, Mr. Ringdal; will you give the Chamberlain this bill from me? RINGDAL. This bill——? STENSGÅRD. Yes; it’s a matter I can’t explain to you; but just you give it to him—— RINGDAL. Upon my word, Mr. Stensgård—— STENSGÅRD. And just add these words from me: This is how I treat those who vote against me! RINGDAL. I shan’t forget. [_Goes out at the back._ STENSGÅRD. I say, Mr. Heire—how could you go and palm off that story about the Chamberlain upon me? HEIRE. How could I palm it off on you——? STENSGÅRD. Yes—it’s a lie from beginning to end. HEIRE. No! Is it indeed? I’m delighted to hear it. Do you hear, Mr. Lundestad? It’s all a lie about the Chamberlain. LUNDESTAD. Sh! We were on a false scent; it’s nearer at hand. STENSGÅRD. How nearer at hand? LUNDESTAD. I know nothing for certain; but they talk of Madam Rundholmen—— STENSGÅRD. What! HEIRE. Haven’t I prophesied it! She has been too much mixed up with our friend at Stonelee—— LUNDESTAD. He drove off this morning before daylight—— HEIRE. And his family is out hunting for him—— LUNDESTAD. And the son has been doing all he knows to get his sister provided for—— STENSGÅRD. Provided for! “To-morrow” she said; and then her anxiety about her father——! HEIRE. Hee-hee! You’ll see he’s gone and hanged himself, sir! ASLAKSEN. Has any one hanged himself? LUNDESTAD. Mr. Heire says Monsen of Stonelee—— MONSEN. [_Enters from the back._] A dozen of champagne! ASLAKSEN AND OTHERS. Monsen! MONSEN.