ULFHEIM.

And afterward?

MAIA.

Then we’ll take a polite leave of each other, with thanks for pleasant company.

ULFHEIM.

Can we part, we two?  Do you think we can?

MAIA.

Yes, you didn’t manage to tie me up, you know.

ULFHEIM.

I have a castle to offer you—–­

MAIA.

[Pointing to the hut.] A fellow to that one?

ULFHEIM.

It has not fallen to ruin yet.

MAIA.

And all the glory of the world, perhaps?

ULFHEIM.

A castle, I tell you—–­

MAIA.

Thanks!  I have had enough of castles.

ULFHEIM.

—­with splendid hunting-grounds stretching for miles around it.

MAIA.

Are there works of art too in this castle?

ULFHEIM.

[Slowly.] Well, no—­it’s true there are no works of art; but—–­

MAIA.

[Relieved.] Ah! that’s one good thing, at any rate!

ULFHEIM.

Will you go with me, then—­as far and as long as I want you?

MAIA.

There is a tame bird of prey keeping watch upon me.

ULFHEIM.

[Wildly.] We’ll put a bullet in his wing, Maia!

MAIA.

[Looks at him a moment, and says resolutely.] Come then, and carry me down into the depths.

ULFHEIM.

[Puts his arm round her waist.] It is high time!  The mist is upon us!

MAIA.

Is the way down terribly dangerous?

ULFHEIM.

The mountain is more dangerous still.

    [She shakes him off, goes to the edge of the precipice and looks
       over, but starts quickly back.

ULFHEIM.

[Goes towards her, laughing.] What?  Does it make you a little giddy?

MAIA.