Why the Chimes Rang

(BERTEL _too turns toward his left hand and does not see the woman._)

HOLGER. (_In a tone of bright happiness, roused from his dreaming_) I'm coming!--Nothing can happen to stop us now, can it? (_As he says this he wheels to his right in a way that brings the chimney corner in his line of vision. He starts, bends forward staring as the others open the door, then he speaks in a tone that is little more than a gasp_) _Steen!_

(_The others stop and stare at him, then in the direction of his look._)

STEEN. Oh!--The Old Woman!

BERTEL. (Looking to STEEN) When did she come in?

STEEN. I didn't see her!

(HOLGER _crosses timidly towards her. As he approaches the_ OLD WOMAN _turns her eyes on him and holds out her hands in pitiful appeal._)

HOLGER. What dost thou want, dame?

OLD WOMAN. (_In a voice that is harsh and broken_) Refuge--from the storm of the world!

HOLGER. Surely thou shalt rest here.