Ochlci'.schlacgcrs Ilakon Jarl 7 



Scene II 

 A Sacred Grove. 



In the background statues, in gray stone, of the twelve principal 

 gods," Odin in the center. The sun, setting, liglits up the scene with its 

 last rays. Gudrun and Astrtd enter the grove, the first with a wreath of 

 flowers. 



Astrid. My sister, whither art tliou leading me? 

 How dare we enter consecrated ground, — 

 This grove, wherein the hallowed only walk. 



Gudrun. My Astrid, whoso truly loves with heart 

 And soul is hallowed; this thou dost as I. 



Astrid. Dear sister, come, my heart rebels ! Look, look, 

 The mighty gods with sober face behold 

 Our erring feet, and angry seems their gaze. 

 Let 's not offend the gods, my sister. Come ! 



Gudrun. Not all alike arc thus severe; for see. 

 The blessed Frigga^ sends a mother's smile ; 

 And yonder, look, the gentle Freia^ beams, 

 Her radiant face aglow with tenderest love 

 Tliat speaks a gladdening welcome to her daughters. 



Astrid. Thy beauty, sister, gladdens Freia's heart. 

 She knows, as each of Norway's gentle swains. 

 That thou 'rt "The Sylvan Sun." 



Gudrun. My Astrid, go, 



Precede me home ; prepare our father's meal. 

 He toileth hard on Hakon's kingly crown. 

 Rut when the gathering shadows bid him cease 

 From work, he 's weary, worn and needs our care. 

 Go thou before ; I follow thee when I 

 Have bound this flowery wreath. 



Astrid. A useless task ! 



And wherefore all this show ? Thy Orm comes not 

 Tonight ; tomorrow is its beauty faded. 



Gudrun. Now go, my sister; leave me, pray, alone. 



45 



