Ketill flatnefr hét maðr, sonr Bjarnar bunu;
hann var hersir ríkr í Nóregi ok kynstórr.
Hann bjó í Raumsdal í Raumsdœlafylki; þat er milli Sunnmœrar ok Norðmœrar.
Ketill flatnefr átti Yngvildi, dóttur Ketils veðrs, ágæts manns.
Þeira bǫrn váru fimm; hét einn Bjǫrn inn austrœni, annarr Helgi bjólan.
Þórunn hyrna hét dóttir Ketils, er átti Helgi inn magri, sonr Eyvindar austmanns ok Rafǫrtu, dóttur Kjarvals Írakonungs.
Unnr in djúpúðga var enn dóttir Ketils, er átti Óláfr hvíti Ingjaldsson, Fróðasonar ins frœkna, er Svertlingar drápu.
Jórunn manvitsbrekka hét enn dóttir Ketils; hon var móðir Ketils ins fiskna, er nam land í Kirkjubœ; hans sonr var Ásbjǫrn, faðir Þorsteins, fǫður Surts, fǫður Sighvats lǫgsǫgumanns.
Once upon a time there was a man by the name of Ketil Flatnef (Flatnose), a son of Björn Buna.
Once upon a time there was a man by the name of Ketil Flatnef (Flatnose), a son of Björn Buna.
He was a country gentleman of large means in Norway, and of a great family.
He was a country gentleman of large means in Norway, and of a great family.
He was living in the valley of Romsdal, in the Romsdal district. This lies between Sunnmreri and Nordmreri.
He was living in the valley of Romsdal, in the Romsdal district. This lies between Sunnmreri and Nordmreri.
Ketil Flatnef’s wife was Yngvild, daughter of Ketil Vedur, a man of some note.
Ketil Flatnef’s wife was Yngvild, daughter of Ketil Vedur, a man of some note.
There were five children. One of them was named Björn the Easterner, another Helgi Bjola;
There were five children. One of them was named Björn the Easterner, another Helgi Bjola;
Thorunn Hyma was a daughter of Ketil’s, who was married to Helgi the Lean, son of Eyvind the Eastman and Rafarta the daughter of the Irish King Kjarfal;
Thorunn Hyma was a daughter of Ketil’s, who was married to Helgi the Lean, son of Eyvind the Eastman and Rafarta the daughter of the Irish King Kjarfal;
Unn the Wealthy was another daughter of Ketil’s, married to Olaf the White, son of Ingjald, son of Frodi the Bold, who was killed by the Svertlings;
Unn the Wealthy was another daughter of Ketil’s, married to Olaf the White, son of Ingjald, son of Frodi the Bold, who was killed by the Svertlings;
Jorunn Mannvitsbrekka was still another daughter of Ketil’s; she was the mother of Ketil the Foolish, who took up the land at Kirkjubæ; his son was Asbjorn, father of Thorstein, father of Surt, father of Sighvat the Law-referee (Lögsögumadr).
Jorunn Mannvitsbrekka was still another daughter of Ketil’s; she was the mother of Ketil the Foolish, who took up the land at Kirkjubæ; his son was Asbjorn, father of Thorstein, father of Surt, father of Sighvat the Law-referee (Lögsögumadr).
Eptir þetta hafði Ketill boð ágætt; þá gipti hann Þórunni hyrnu, dóttur sína, Helga inum magra, sem fyrr var ritat.
Eptir þat býr Ketill ferð sína ór landi vestr um haf; Unnr, dóttir hans, fór með honum ok margir aðrir frændr hans.
Synir Ketils heldu þat sama sumar til Íslands ok Helgi magri, mágr þeira.
Bjǫrn Ketilsson kom skipi sínu vestr í Breiðafjǫrð ok sigldi inn eptir firðinum ok nær inu syðra landinu, þar til er fjǫrðr skarsk inn í landit; en fjall hátt stóð á nesinu fyrir innan fjǫrðinn, en ey lá skammt frá landinu.
Bjǫrn segir, at þeir myndi eiga þar dvǫl nǫkkura.
Bjǫrn gekk á land upp með nǫkkura menn (6) ok reikaði fram með sjónum; var þar skammt í milli fjalls ok fjǫru; honum þótti þar byggiligt.
Þar fann Bjǫrn reknar ǫndvegissúlur sínar í einni vík; þótti þeim þá á vísat um bústaðinn.
Síðan tók Bjǫrn sér þar land allt á millum Stafár ok Hraunfjarðar ok bjó þar, er síðan heitir í Bjarnarhǫfn.
Hann var kallaðr Bjǫrn inn austrœni.
Hans kona var Gjaflaug, dóttir Kjallaks ins gamla; þeira synir váru þeir Óttarr ok Kjallakr.
Hans sonr var Þorgrímr, faðir Víga-Styrs ok Vermundar, en dóttir Kjallaks hét Helga; hana átti Vestarr á Eyri, sonr Þórólfs blǫðruskalla, er nam Eyri; þeira sonr var Þorlákr, faðir Steinþórs á Eyri.
Helgi bjólan kom skipi sínu fyrir sunnan land ok nam Kjalarnes allt á milli Kollafjarðar ok Hvalfjarðar ok bjó at Esjubergi til elli.
Helgi inn magri kom skipi sínu fyrir norðan land ok nam Eyjafjǫrð allan á milli Sigluness ok Reynisness ok bjó í Kristnesi.
Frá þeim Helga ok Þórunni er komit Eyfirðingakyn.
Shortly after this Ketil made a magnificent family feast. At that time he married off his daughter Thorunn Hyrna to Helgi the Lean, as has already been set down.
Shortly after this Ketil made a magnificent family feast. At that time he married off his daughter Thorunn Hyrna to Helgi the Lean, as has already been set down.
Then Ketil made ready to go out of the country overseas to the westward. His daughter Unn went with him, and many others of his kinsfolk.
Then Ketil made ready to go out of the country overseas to the westward. His daughter Unn went with him, and many others of his kinsfolk.
Ketil’s sons set sail for Iceland that same summer together with their brother-in-law Helgi the Lean.
Ketil’s sons set sail for Iceland that same summer together with their brother-in-law Helgi the Lean.
Björn Ketilson made land on the west, in Breidafjord, and sailed up the fjord along the southem shore to where another fjord cut into the land and a lofty cliff stood out on the point on the landward side of this fjord, and where an island lay off shore.
Björn Ketilson made land on the west, in Breidafjord, and sailed up the fjord along the southem shore to where another fjord cut into the land and a lofty cliff stood out on the point on the landward side of this fjord, and where an island lay off shore.
Björn passed the word that they were to make something of a stay in this place.
Björn passed the word that they were to make something of a stay in this place.
He went ashore with a few of his men and strolled on along the beach. Here was but a narrow space between the hillside and the shingle. The place looked homelike to him.
He went ashore with a few of his men and strolled on along the beach. Here was but a narrow space between the hillside and the shingle. The place looked homelike to him.
And there Björn came upon the pillars of his highseat, washed ashore in a certain creek. So then the place of their habitation was taken to have been marked down for them.1
And there Björn came upon the pillars of his highseat, washed ashore in a certain creek. So then the place of their habitation was taken to have been marked down for them.1
Björn thereupon took (5) over all the land thereabout, from Stafá (Post River) to Hraunsfjord (Lava Creek), and made his home at the place which has since been known as Bjarnarhafn.
Björn thereupon took (5) over all the land thereabout, from Stafá (Post River) to Hraunsfjord (Lava Creek), and made his home at the place which has since been known as Bjarnarhafn.
He was known as Björn the Easterner.
He was known as Björn the Easterner.
His wife was Gjaflaug, a daughter of Kjallak the Old. Their sons were Ottar and Kjallak.
His wife was Gjaflaug, a daughter of Kjallak the Old. Their sons were Ottar and Kjallak.
Kjallak’s son was Thorgrim, father of Viga Styr and Vermund; Kjallak’s daughter was named Helga; she was married to Vestar, of Eyr, son of Thorolf Blodruskalli (Blisterhead), who first took up the land at Eyr; their son was Thorlak, father of Steinthor of Eyr.
Kjallak’s son was Thorgrim, father of Viga Styr and Vermund; Kjallak’s daughter was named Helga; she was married to Vestar, of Eyr, son of Thorolf Blodruskalli (Blisterhead), who first took up the land at Eyr; their son was Thorlak, father of Steinthor of Eyr.
Helgi Bjola made the land on the south, and he took up the land on Kjalarnes all the way from Kollafjord to Hvalfjord, and lived to be an old man at Esjuberg.
Helgi Bjola made the land on the south, and he took up the land on Kjalarnes all the way from Kollafjord to Hvalfjord, and lived to be an old man at Esjuberg.
Helgi (the Lean) made land on the north, and he took up all the land about Eyjafjord, from Siglunes to Reynisnes, and made his home at Kristnes.
Helgi (the Lean) made land on the north, and he took up all the land about Eyjafjord, from Siglunes to Reynisnes, and made his home at Kristnes.
From Helgi and Thorunn have come the Eyfirding folk.
From Helgi and Thorunn have come the Eyfirding folk.
Ketill flatnefr kom skipi sínu við Skotland ok fekk góðar viðtǫkur af tignum mǫnnum, því at hann var frægr maðr ok stórættaðr, ok buðu honum (7) þann ráðakost þar, sem hann vildi hafa.
Ketill staðfestisk þar ok annat frændlið hans, nema Þorsteinn, dóttursonr hans; hann lagðisk þegar í hernað ok herjaði víða um Skotland ok fekk jafnan sigr;
síðan gerði hann sætt við Skota ok eignaðisk hálft Skotland ok varð konungr yfir.
Hann átti Þuríði Eyvindardóttur, systur Helga ins magra.
Skotar heldu eigi lengi sættina, því at þeir sviku hann í tryggð; svá segir Ari Þorgilsson inn fróði um líflát Þorsteins, at hann felli á Katanesi.
Unnr djúpúðga var á Katanesi, er Þorsteinn fell, sonr hennar; ok er hon frá þat, at Þorsteinn var látinn, en faðir hennar andaðr, þá þóttisk hon þar enga uppreist fá mundu.
Eptir þat lætr hon gera knǫrr í skógi á laun; ok er skipit var algǫrt, þá bjó hon skipit ok hafði auð fjár.
Hon hafði brott með sér allt frændlið sitt, þat er á lífi var, ok þykkjask menn varla dœmi til finna, at einn kvenmaðr hafi komizk í brott ór þvílíkum ófriði með jafnmiklu fé ok fǫruneyti;
má af því marka, at hon var mikit afbragð annarra kvenna.
Unnr hafði ok með sér marga þá menn, er mikils váru verðir ok stórættaðir.
Maðr er nefndr Kollr, er einna var mest verðr af fǫruneyti Unnar; kom mest til þess ætt hans; hann var hersir at nafni.
Sá maðr var ok í ferð með Unni, er Hǫrðr hét; hann var enn (8) stórættaðr maðr ok mikils verðr.
Unnr heldr skipinu í Orkneyjar, þegar er hon var búin; þar dvalðisk hon litla hríð.
Þar gipti hon Gró, dóttur Þorsteins rauðs;
hon var móðir Greilaðar, er Þorfinnr jarl átti, sonr Torf-Einars jarls, sonar Rǫgnvalds Mœrajarls; þeira sonr var Hlǫðvér, faðir Sigurðar jarls, fǫður Þorfinns jarls, ok er þaðan komit kyn allra Orkneyinga jarla.
Eptir þat helt Unnr skipi sínu til Færeyja ok átti þar enn nǫkkura dvǫl;
þar gipti hon aðra dóttur Þorsteins; sú hét Ólof; þaðan er komit kyn it ágæzta í því landi, er þeir kalla Gǫtuskeggja.
Ketil Flatnef sailed to Scotland and was well received by the gentry there, for he was a famous man and of a great family, and they offered him such a place and station among them as he chose to accept.
Ketil Flatnef sailed to Scotland and was well received by the gentry there, for he was a famous man and of a great family, and they offered him such a place and station among them as he chose to accept.
Ketil settled down there and the rest of his kinsfolk with him; all but his grandson Thorstein, who straightway went cruising as a pirate and harried the Scottish seaboard far and wide and ever came off victorious.
Ketil settled down there and the rest of his kinsfolk with him; all but his grandson Thorstein, who straightway went cruising as a pirate and harried the Scottish seaboard far and wide and ever came off victorious.
In time he made terms with the Scottish king and so took over one-half of Scotland and became king of it.
In time he made terms with the Scottish king and so took over one-half of Scotland and became king of it.
He married Thurid, daughter of Eyvind and sister of Helgi the Lean.
He married Thurid, daughter of Eyvind and sister of Helgi the Lean.
The Scots did not long keep the peace, inasmuch as they broke faith with him. Ari Thorgilson the Scholar says concerning Thorstein’s decease that he fell in a fight at Caithness.
The Scots did not long keep the peace, inasmuch as they broke faith with him. Ari Thorgilson the Scholar says concerning Thorstein’s decease that he fell in a fight at Caithness.
Unn the Wealthy was at Caithness at the time her son Thorstein was killed, and when she was told that Thorstein was gone, and her father also had died, then she had small hope of retrieving her fortunes in that place.
Unn the Wealthy was at Caithness at the time her son Thorstein was killed, and when she was told that Thorstein was gone, and her father also had died, then she had small hope of retrieving her fortunes in that place.
So then she had a cargo vessel built secretly in the forest, and so soon as the ship was ready she fitted it out and loaded it with a rich cargo.
So then she had a cargo vessel built secretly in the forest, and so soon as the ship was ready she fitted it out and loaded it with a rich cargo.
She brought away with her all of her kinsfolk who were left alive. And there is scarcely an example known to men, of another woman having got away, single-handed, out of such great straits with so much wealth and so large a company.
She brought away with her all of her kinsfolk who were left alive. And there is scarcely an example known to men, of another woman having got away, single-handed, out of such great straits with so much wealth and so large a company.
By this it is to be seen how greatly she surpassed all other women.
By this it is to be seen how greatly she surpassed all other women.
Unn (7) also carried away with her a number of other men who were of much account and of gentle birth.
Unn (7) also carried away with her a number of other men who were of much account and of gentle birth.
There was a man by the name of Koll who was counted altogether the best man among Unn’s followers. This was mostly due to the fact that he held rank as a Hersir.2
There was a man by the name of Koll who was counted altogether the best man among Unn’s followers. This was mostly due to the fact that he held rank as a Hersir.2
There was also a man in Unn’s company who was named Hörd. He too was a gentleman and of some account.
There was also a man in Unn’s company who was named Hörd. He too was a gentleman and of some account.
Unn sailed for the Orkneys as soon as all was ready. There she made a short stay
Unn sailed for the Orkneys as soon as all was ready. There she made a short stay
and there she married off Gro, daughter of Thorstein the Red.
and there she married off Gro, daughter of Thorstein the Red.
Gro was the mother of Greilad, who was married to Earl Thorfin, son of Earl Torf-Einar, son of Rognvald, Earl of Mœri; their son was Lödver, father of Earl Sigurd, father of Earl Thorfin; and from them comes the family of the Earls of Orkney.
Gro was the mother of Greilad, who was married to Earl Thorfin, son of Earl Torf-Einar, son of Rognvald, Earl of Mœri; their son was Lödver, father of Earl Sigurd, father of Earl Thorfin; and from them comes the family of the Earls of Orkney.
Unn then sailed to the Faroes and made a short stay there.
Unn then sailed to the Faroes and made a short stay there.
There she married off a second daughter of Thorstein’s. This one’s name was Olöf. From her has come that family which is the noblest in that country, and which is called the Götuskeggja Folk (“The Fightingmen of Gata”).
There she married off a second daughter of Thorstein’s. This one’s name was Olöf. From her has come that family which is the noblest in that country, and which is called the Götuskeggja Folk (“The Fightingmen of Gata”).
Nú býsk Unnr í brott ór Færeyjum ok lýsir því fyrir skipverjum sínum, at hon ætlar til Íslands; hon hefir með sér Óláf feilan, son Þorsteins rauðs, ok systur hans, þær er ógiptar váru.
Eptir þat lætr hon í haf ok verðr vel reiðfara ok kemr skipi sínu fyrir sunnan land á Vikrarskeið; þar brjóta þau skipit í spán; menn allir heldusk ok fé.
Síðan fór hon á fund Helga, bróður síns, með tuttugu menn.
Ok er hon kom þar, gekk hann á mót henni ok bauð henni til (9) sín við tíunda mann.
Hon svarar reiðuliga og kvazk eigi vitat hafa, at hann væri slíkt lítilmenni, ok ferr í brott;
ætlar hon nú at sœkja heim Bjǫrn, bróður sinn, í Breiðafjǫrð.
Ok er hann spyrr til ferða hennar, þá ferr hann í mót henni með fjǫlmenni ok fagnar henni vel ok bauð henni til sín með ǫllu liði sínu, því at hann kunni veglyndi systur sinnar;
þat líkaði henni allvel, og þakkaði honum stórmennsku sína.
Hon var þar um vetrinn, ok var henni veitt it stórmannligsta, því at efni váru gnóg, en fé eigi sparat.
Ok um várit fór hon yfir Breiðafjǫrð ok kom at nesi nǫkkuru, ok átu þar dagverð;
þar er síðan kallat Dǫgurðarnes, ok gengr þat af Meðalfellsstrǫnd.
Síðan helt hon skipi sínu inn eptir Hvammsfirði ok kom þar at nesi einu ok átti þar dvǫl nǫkkura; þar tapaði Unnr kambi sínum; þar heitir síðan Kambsnes.
Eptir þat fór hon um alla Breiðafjarðardali ok nam sér lǫnd svá víða, sem hon vildi.
Síðan helt Unnr skipi sínu í fjarðarbotninn; váru þar reknar á land ǫndvegissúlur hennar; þótti henni þá auðvitat, hvar hon skyldi bústað taka.
Hon lætr bœ reisa, þar er síðan heitir í Hvammi, ok byggði þar.
Þat sama vár, er Unnr setti bú saman í Hvammi, fekk Kollr Þorgerðar, dóttur Þorsteins rauðs;
þat boð kostaði Unnr; lætr hon Þorgerði heiman fylgja Laxárdal allan, ok setti hann þar bú saman fyrir sunnan Laxá.
Var Kollr inn mesti tilkvæmðarmaðr. Þeira son var Hǫskuldr.
Thereupon Unn makes ready to leave the Faroes and makes known to her ship’s company that she is sailing for Iceland. She takes with her Olaf Feilan, son of Thorstein the Red, and such of his sisters as were still unmarried.
Thereupon Unn makes ready to leave the Faroes and makes known to her ship’s company that she is sailing for Iceland. She takes with her Olaf Feilan, son of Thorstein the Red, and such of his sisters as were still unmarried.
She then put to sea and had a good and speedy passage and made the land at Vikrarskeid (Cinder slide). There they lost their ship in a total wreck. All lives were saved and so was the cargo.
She then put to sea and had a good and speedy passage and made the land at Vikrarskeid (Cinder slide). There they lost their ship in a total wreck. All lives were saved and so was the cargo.
She then set out for her brother Helgi’s place with a company of twenty persons,
She then set out for her brother Helgi’s place with a company of twenty persons,
and when she got there he came out to meet her and invited her to come stay with him with a company of ten persons.
and when she got there he came out to meet her and invited her to come stay with him with a company of ten persons.
She answered him in high dudgeon and told him she had never known that he was such a shabby little fellow, and turned about and left him.
She answered him in high dudgeon and told him she had never known that he was such a shabby little fellow, and turned about and left him.
She then set out to find her brother Björn, in the Breidafjord country;
She then set out to find her brother Björn, in the Breidafjord country;
and when he got word of her coming he went out to meet her on the way with a large company and welcomed her cordially and asked her to make herself at home with him with all her following; for he knew his sister’s temper.
and when he got word of her coming he went out to meet her on the way with a large company and welcomed her cordially and asked her to make herself at home with him with all her following; for he knew his sister’s temper.
This pleased her very much and she thanked him for his lordly hospitality.
This pleased her very much and she thanked him for his lordly hospitality.
She stayed there over winter entertained in grand style; for there the means were plenty and no expense was spared.
She stayed there over winter entertained in grand style; for there the means were plenty and no expense was spared.
In the spring she crossed Breidafjord and landed on a certain headland, where they had breakfast.
In the spring she crossed Breidafjord and landed on a certain headland, where they had breakfast.
The place has since been called Dogurdarness (Point Breakfast); Medalfell(9)strand runs from that point on.
The place has since been called Dogurdarness (Point Breakfast); Medalfell(9)strand runs from that point on.
Then she sailed on up the Hvammsfjord and reached another headland, where they made a short stay. In this place Unn lost her comb. Since then it is called Kambsnes.
Then she sailed on up the Hvammsfjord and reached another headland, where they made a short stay. In this place Unn lost her comb. Since then it is called Kambsnes.
After that she went on through all the valleys of the Breidafjord country and took up as much of the lands as she wanted.
After that she went on through all the valleys of the Breidafjord country and took up as much of the lands as she wanted.
Then she held her course up the fjord to its head. There were her highseat-pillars washed ashore. So it was plain to her where she was to make her habitation.
Then she held her course up the fjord to its head. There were her highseat-pillars washed ashore. So it was plain to her where she was to make her habitation.
She built up a farmstead there at the place called Hvamm and there she made her home.
She built up a farmstead there at the place called Hvamm and there she made her home.
This same spring when Unn set up her household at Hvamm, Koll married Thorgerd, daughter of Thorstein the Red.
This same spring when Unn set up her household at Hvamm, Koll married Thorgerd, daughter of Thorstein the Red.
Unn bore the expense of this wedding. She settled on Thorgerd, for her dowry, the whole of the Laxárdal (Salmon River Valley), and on this land he made his farm and set up his house, on the south side of the Laxá.
Unn bore the expense of this wedding. She settled on Thorgerd, for her dowry, the whole of the Laxárdal (Salmon River Valley), and on this land he made his farm and set up his house, on the south side of the Laxá.
Koll was a man of very great consequence. Their son was Höskuld.)]
Koll was a man of very great consequence. Their son was Höskuld.)]
Eptir þat gefr Unnr fleirum mǫnnum af landnámi sínu.
Herði gaf hon Hǫrðadal allan út til Skrámuhlaupsár; hann bjó á Hǫrðabólstað ok var mikill merkismaðr ok kynsæll.
Hans sonr var Ásbjǫrn auðgi, er bjó í Ǫrnólfsdal á Ásbjarnarstǫðum; hann átti Þorbjǫrgu, dóttur Miðfjarðar-Skeggja; þeira dóttir var Ingibjǫrg, er átti Illugi inn svarti; þeira synir váru þeir Hermundr ok Gunnlaugr ormstunga; þat er kallat Gilsbekkingakyn.
Unnr mælti við sína menn: “Nú skulu þér taka ǫmbun verka yðvarra; skortir oss nú ok eigi fǫng til at gjalda yðr starf yðvart ok góðvilja.
En yðr er þat kunnigt, at ek hefi frelsi gefit þeim manni, er Erpr heitir, syni Melduns jarls; fór þat fjarri um svá stórættaðan mann, at ek vilda, at hann bæri þræls nafn.”
Síðan gaf Unnr honum Sauðafellslǫnd á millum Tunguár ok Miðár; hans bǫrn váru þau Ormr ok Ásgeirr, Gunnbjǫrn ok Halldís, er átti Dala-Álfr.
Sǫkkólfi gaf hon Sǫkkólfsdal, ok bjó hann þar til elli.
Hundi hét lausingi hennar; hann var skozkr at ætt; honum gaf hon Hundadal.
Vífill hét þræll Unnar inn fjórði; hon gaf honum Vífilsdal.
Ósk hét in fjórða dóttir Þorsteins rauðs; hon var móðir Þorsteins (11) surts ins spaka, er fann sumarauka.
Þórhildr hét in fimmta dóttir Þorsteins; hon var móðir Álfs í Dǫlum; telr mart manna kyn sitt til hans.
Hans dóttir var Þorgerðr, kona Ara Mássonar á Reykjanesi, Atla sonar, Ulfs sonar ins skjálga ok Bjargar Eyvindardóttur, systur Helga ins magra; þaðan eru komnir Reyknesingar.
Vigdís hét in sétta dóttir Þorsteins rauðs; þaðan eru komnir Hǫfðamenn í Eyjafirði.
Unn afterward gave away portions of the lands which she had taken up, to one and another.
Unn afterward gave away portions of the lands which she had taken up, to one and another.
To Hörd she gave all of Hördadal as far down as the Skraumuhlaup river. He made his homestead at Hördabolstad, and he was a notable man in his time and was greatly blessed in his children.
To Hörd she gave all of Hördadal as far down as the Skraumuhlaup river. He made his homestead at Hördabolstad, and he was a notable man in his time and was greatly blessed in his children.
His son was Asbjorn the Wealthy who lived at Asbjarnarstad in the Örnolfsdal; he married Thorbjörg, daughter of Skeggi of Midfjord; their daughter was Ingibjorg, who was married to Illugi the Black; their sons were Hermund and Gunnlaug Ormstunga. They are known as the Gilsbecking folk.
His son was Asbjorn the Wealthy who lived at Asbjarnarstad in the Örnolfsdal; he married Thorbjörg, daughter of Skeggi of Midfjord; their daughter was Ingibjorg, who was married to Illugi the Black; their sons were Hermund and Gunnlaug Ormstunga. They are known as the Gilsbecking folk.
Now Unn told her men, “You will now take the reward of your labors. Now there is no lack of means with which to repay you for your hardships and your goodwill.
Now Unn told her men, “You will now take the reward of your labors. Now there is no lack of means with which to repay you for your hardships and your goodwill.
It is known to all of you that I have given his freedom to Erp, the son of Earl Meldun. I am by no means willing to let so well-born a man bear the name of slave.”
It is known to all of you that I have given his freedom to Erp, the son of Earl Meldun. I am by no means willing to let so well-born a man bear the name of slave.”
Unn then gave him the lands of Saudafell (Sheepmoors), which lie between the two rivers of Tungua and Mida. His children were Orm and Asgeir, Gunnbjorn and Halldis, who was married to Alf of the Dales.
Unn then gave him the lands of Saudafell (Sheepmoors), which lie between the two rivers of Tungua and Mida. His children were Orm and Asgeir, Gunnbjorn and Halldis, who was married to Alf of the Dales.
To Sökolf she gave Sökolfsdal, and he lived there ever after.
To Sökolf she gave Sökolfsdal, and he lived there ever after.
Hundi was a freedman of Unn’s; he was a Scotsman; to him she gave Hundadal.
Hundi was a freedman of Unn’s; he was a Scotsman; to him she gave Hundadal.
Osk was the name of the fourth daughter of Thorstein the Red; she was the mother of Thorstein Surt, who invented the Sumarauki.3
Osk was the name of the fourth daughter of Thorstein the Red; she was the mother of Thorstein Surt, who invented the Sumarauki.3
Thorhild was a fifth daughter of Thorstein’s; (11) she was the mother of Alf of the Dales. There are many who trace their descent to him.
Thorhild was a fifth daughter of Thorstein’s; (11) she was the mother of Alf of the Dales. There are many who trace their descent to him.
His daughter was Thorgerd, wife of Ari Manson of Reykjanes, son of Atli, son of Ulf the Squinteye and Bjorg, daughter of Eyvind, sister of Helgi the Lean. From them come the Reyknesing folk.
His daughter was Thorgerd, wife of Ari Manson of Reykjanes, son of Atli, son of Ulf the Squinteye and Bjorg, daughter of Eyvind, sister of Helgi the Lean. From them come the Reyknesing folk.
Vigdis was the name of a sixth daughter of Thorstein the Red. From her have come the Höfda folk in the Eyjafjord country.
Vigdis was the name of a sixth daughter of Thorstein the Red. From her have come the Höfda folk in the Eyjafjord country.
Eptir þat stóð Unnr upp ok kvazk ganga mundu til þeirar skemmu, sem hon var vǫn at sofa í; bað, at þat skyldi hverr hafa at skemmtan, sem þá væri næst skapi, en mungát skyldi skemmta alþýðunni.
Svá segja menn, at Unnr (13) hafi verit bæði há ok þreklig; hon gekk hart útar eptir skálanum; fundusk mǫnnum orð um, at konan var enn virðulig.
Drukku menn um kveldit, þangat til at mǫnnum þótti mál at sofa.
En um daginn eptir gekk Óláfr feilan til svefnstofu Unnar, frændkonu sinnar; ok er hann kom í stofuna, sat Unnr upp við hœgendin; hon var þá ǫnduð.
Gekk Óláfr eptir þat í skála ok sagði tíðendi þessi; þótti mǫnnum mikils um vert, hversu Unnr hafði haldit virðingu sinni til dauðadags.
Var nú drukkit allt saman, brullaup Óláfs ok erfi Unnar.
Ok inn síðasta dag boðsins var Unnr flutt til haugs þess, er henni var búinn;
hon var lǫgð í skip í hauginum, ok mikit fé var í haug lagt með henni; var eptir þat aptr kastaðr haugrinn.
Óláfr feilan tók þá við búi í Hvammi ok allri fjárvarðveizlu at ráði þeira frænda sinna, er hann hǫfðu heim sótt.
En er veizluna þrýtr, gefr Óláfr stórmannligar gjafar þeim mǫnnum, er þar váru mest virðir, áðr á brott fóru.
Óláfr gerðisk ríkr maðr ok hǫfðingi mikill; hann bjó í Hvammi til elli.
Bǫrn þeira Óláfs ok Álfdísar váru Þórðr gellir, er átti Hróðnýju, dóttur Miðfjarðar-Skeggja, þeira synir váru þeir Eyjólfr grái, Þórarinn fylsenni, Þorkell kuggi; dóttir Óláfs feilans var Þóra, er átti (14) Þorsteinn þorskabítr, sonr Þórólfs Mostrarskeggs; þeira synir váru Bǫrkr inn digri ok Þorgrímr, faðir Snorra goða.
Helga hét ǫnnur dóttir Óláfs, hana átti Gunnarr Hlífarson; þeira dóttir var Jófríðr, er átti Þóroddr, sonr Tungu-Odds, en síðan Þorsteinn Egilsson; Þórunn hét enn dóttir hans; hana átti Hersteinn, sonr Þorkels Blund-Ketilssonar.
Þórdís hét in þriðja dóttir Óláfs; hana átti Þórarinn Ragabróðir lǫgsǫgumaðr.
Thereupon Unn stood up to go, saying that she was going to the chamber in which she used to sleep. She begged them each and all to amuse themselves in any way they liked best, and gave orders that drink be served to all the company.
Thereupon Unn stood up to go, saying that she was going to the chamber in which she used to sleep. She begged them each and all to amuse themselves in any way they liked best, and gave orders that drink be served to all the company.
They say that Unn was both tall and bulky; and as she walked swiftly down the hall it was remarked that she still was a personable woman.
They say that Unn was both tall and bulky; and as she walked swiftly down the hall it was remarked that she still was a personable woman.
And so the guests sat at their drink into the evening until it came time to go to sleep.
And so the guests sat at their drink into the evening until it came time to go to sleep.
But next day Olaf Feilan went to his grandmother Aud’s4
bedchamber, and when he got there he (13) found Unn leaning up against the bolsters. She was then dead.
But next day Olaf Feilan went to his grandmother Aud’s4
bedchamber, and when he got there he (13) found Unn leaning up against the bolsters. She was then dead.
Olaf went back into the hall and told these tidings. And the folks were greatly touched with the way Unn had held her own till the day of her death.
Olaf went back into the hall and told these tidings. And the folks were greatly touched with the way Unn had held her own till the day of her death.
So now they drank the two in one, Olaf’s wedding feast and Unn’s funeral feast.
So now they drank the two in one, Olaf’s wedding feast and Unn’s funeral feast.
And on the last day of the festivities Unn was carried out to the grave-mound that had been made ready for her.
And on the last day of the festivities Unn was carried out to the grave-mound that had been made ready for her.
She was laid down in a ship inside the grave-mound and many things of great value were buried with her. After that the grave-mound was filled up and covered over.
She was laid down in a ship inside the grave-mound and many things of great value were buried with her. After that the grave-mound was filled up and covered over.
Olaf then took over the estate at Hvamm, with all its rights and obligations, with the sanction of such kinsfolk of his as were his guests at the time.
Olaf then took over the estate at Hvamm, with all its rights and obligations, with the sanction of such kinsfolk of his as were his guests at the time.
And when the festivities drew to a close Olaf gave magnificent presents to all those of the guests who were of much consequence, before they left.
And when the festivities drew to a close Olaf gave magnificent presents to all those of the guests who were of much consequence, before they left.
Olaf grew to be a man of wealth and power and a great chieftain (Höfdingi).5
He lived to be an old man at Hvamm.
Olaf grew to be a man of wealth and power and a great chieftain (Höfdingi).5
He lived to be an old man at Hvamm.
Olaf and Alfdis had children: Thord Gellir (“The Bellower”), who married Hrodny, daughter of Skeggi of Midfjord, and whose children were Eyolf the Gray, Thorarin (15) Fylsenni (Ivorydome), Thorkel Kuggi; a daughter of Olaf Feilan’s was Thora, married to Thorstein Thorskabit (Codfishbite), son of Thorolf Mostrarskegg (Mustardwhiskers); their sons were Big Bork and Thorgrim, father of Snorri Godi;
Olaf and Alfdis had children: Thord Gellir (“The Bellower”), who married Hrodny, daughter of Skeggi of Midfjord, and whose children were Eyolf the Gray, Thorarin (15) Fylsenni (Ivorydome), Thorkel Kuggi; a daughter of Olaf Feilan’s was Thora, married to Thorstein Thorskabit (Codfishbite), son of Thorolf Mostrarskegg (Mustardwhiskers); their sons were Big Bork and Thorgrim, father of Snorri Godi;
Helga was a second daughter of Olaf’s; she was married to Gunnar Hlifarson; their daughters were Jofrid, married to Thorodd, son of Tungu-Odd, and afterward to Thorstein Egilson; and then a daughter Thorunn, married to Herstein, son of Thorkel Blund-Ketil’s son;
Helga was a second daughter of Olaf’s; she was married to Gunnar Hlifarson; their daughters were Jofrid, married to Thorodd, son of Tungu-Odd, and afterward to Thorstein Egilson; and then a daughter Thorunn, married to Herstein, son of Thorkel Blund-Ketil’s son;
a third daughter of Olaf’s was Thordis, married to Thorarin Ragabrother, the Law-Speaker.
a third daughter of Olaf’s was Thordis, married to Thorarin Ragabrother, the Law-Speaker.
En Þorgerðr Þorsteinsdóttir, móðir Hǫskulds, var þá enn ung kona ok in vænsta;
hon nam eigi ynði á Íslandi eptir dauða Kolls; lýsir hon því fyrir Hǫskuldi, syni sínum, at hon vill fara útan með fjárhlut þann, sem hon hlaut.
Hǫskuldr kvazk þat mikit þykkja, ef þau skulu skilja, en kvazk þó eigi mundu þetta gera at móti henni heldr en annat.
Síðan kaupir Hǫskuldr skip hálft til handa móður sinni, er uppi stóð í Dǫgurðarnesi; rézk Þorgerðr þar til skips með miklum fjárhlut.
En eptir þat siglir Þorgerðr á haf, ok verðr skip þat vel reiðfara ok kemr (15) við Nóreg.
Þorgerðr átti í Nóregi mikit ætterni ok marga gǫfga frændr; þeir fǫgnuðu henni vel ok buðu henni alla kosti, þá sem hon vildi með þeim þiggja.
Hon Þorgerðr tók því vel, segir, at þat er hennar ætlan, at staðfestask þar í landi.
Þorgerðr var eigi lengi ekkja, áðr maðr varð til at biðja hennar; sá er nefndr Herjólfr; hann var lendr maðr at virðingu, auðigr ok mikils virðr.
Herjólfr var mikill maðr ok sterkr; ekki var hann fríðr sýnum ok þó inn skǫruligsti í yfirbragði; allra manna var hann bezt vígr.
Ok er at þessum málum var setit, átti Þorgerðr svǫr at veita, er hon var ekkja; ok með frænda sinna ráði veiksk hon eigi undan þessum ráðahag, ok giptisk Þorgerðr Herjólfi ok ferr heim til bús með honum; takask með þeim góðar ástir.
Synir Þorgerðr þat brátt af sér, at hon er inn mesti skǫrungr; þykkir ok ráðahagr Herjólfs nú miklu betri en áðr ok virðuligri, er hann hefir fengið slíkrar konu, sem Þorgerðr var.
Now Höskuld’s mother, Thorgerd Thorsteinsdaughter, was still a young woman at this time, and a beautiful woman.
Now Höskuld’s mother, Thorgerd Thorsteinsdaughter, was still a young woman at this time, and a beautiful woman.
She spoke to her son Höskuld about it, that she had a mind to go abroad and take with her such part of the property as would fall to her share.
She spoke to her son Höskuld about it, that she had a mind to go abroad and take with her such part of the property as would fall to her share.
Höskuld said he was very sorry if they had to separate, but he told her he would no more oppose her wishes in this than in anything else.
Höskuld said he was very sorry if they had to separate, but he told her he would no more oppose her wishes in this than in anything else.
Presently after Höskuld purchased a half-interest for his mother in a ship which was standing on shore at Dogurdarnes; and Thorgerd went aboard of it with a large and valuable stock of goods.
Presently after Höskuld purchased a half-interest for his mother in a ship which was standing on shore at Dogurdarnes; and Thorgerd went aboard of it with a large and valuable stock of goods.
So Thorgerd put to sea, and the vessel made a good and speedy passage and came into Norway.
So Thorgerd put to sea, and the vessel made a good and speedy passage and came into Norway.
Thorgerd had large family connections in Norway and many substantial kinsfolk. They made her welcome (16) and gave her a free choice of anything she would have of them.
Thorgerd had large family connections in Norway and many substantial kinsfolk. They made her welcome (16) and gave her a free choice of anything she would have of them.
And Thorgerd took it all in good part and declared her intention to settle down and make her home in that country.
And Thorgerd took it all in good part and declared her intention to settle down and make her home in that country.
Thorgerd was not a widow for long before there came a man to ask her. His name was Herjolf. His rank was that of a country magistrate, well-todo and much-esteemed.
Thorgerd was not a widow for long before there came a man to ask her. His name was Herjolf. His rank was that of a country magistrate, well-todo and much-esteemed.
Herjolf was a big man and a strong one; not a handsome man, and yet a very striking figure. He was greatly skilled at arms.
Herjolf was a big man and a strong one; not a handsome man, and yet a very striking figure. He was greatly skilled at arms.
Now, when this question was taken under advisement it was for Thorgerd herself to decide, inasmuch as she was a widow, and with the advice and consent of her kinsfolk she did not decline this offer of marriage. And Thorgerd married Herjolf and went to live with him. They came to love one another dearly.
Now, when this question was taken under advisement it was for Thorgerd herself to decide, inasmuch as she was a widow, and with the advice and consent of her kinsfolk she did not decline this offer of marriage. And Thorgerd married Herjolf and went to live with him. They came to love one another dearly.
Thorgerd soon showed that she was quite a capable housewife, so that he found his circumstances greatly bettered both in fame and in fortune for having got himself so excellent a wife as Thorgerd proved to be.
Thorgerd soon showed that she was quite a capable housewife, so that he found his circumstances greatly bettered both in fame and in fortune for having got himself so excellent a wife as Thorgerd proved to be.
Þau Herjólfr ok Þorgerðr hǫfðu eigi lengi ásamt verit, áðr þeim varð sonar auðit; sá sveinn var vatni ausinn ok nafn gefit, ok var kallaðr Hrútr.
(16) Hann var snimmendis mikill ok sterkr, er hann óx upp; var hann ok hverjum manni betr í vexti, hár ok herðibreiðr, miðmjór ok limaðr vel með hǫndum ok fótum.
Hrútr var allra manna fríðastr sýnum, eptir því sem verit hǫfðu þeir Þorsteinn, móðurfaðir hans, eða Ketill flatnefr; inn mesti var hann atgørvimaðr fyrir allra hluta sakar.
Herjólfr tók sótt ok andaðisk; þat þótti mǫnnum mikill skaði.
Eptir þat fýstisk Þorgerðr til Íslands ok vildi vitja Hǫskulds, sonar síns, því at hon unni honum um alla menn fram, en Hrútr var eptir með frændum sínum vel settr.
Þorgerðr bjó ferð sína til Íslands ok sœkir heim Hǫskuld, son sinn, í Laxárdal.
Hann tók sœmiliga við móður sinni; átti hon auð fjár ok var með Hǫskuldi til dauðadags.
Fám vetrum síðar tók Þorgerðr banasótt ok andaðisk, ok var hon í haug sett, en Hǫskuldr tók fé allt, en Hrútr, bróðir hans, átti hálft.
Herjolf and Thorgerd had not been living together long before a son was born to them. This boy was duly sprinkled with water and given a name, and he was called Hrut.
Herjolf and Thorgerd had not been living together long before a son was born to them. This boy was duly sprinkled with water and given a name, and he was called Hrut.
He grew large and strong from early youth as he was growing up. He was quite uncommonly well-grown, tall and broad-shouldered, slim-waisted and with good hands and feet.
He grew large and strong from early youth as he was growing up. He was quite uncommonly well-grown, tall and broad-shouldered, slim-waisted and with good hands and feet.
Hrut was an unusually handsome man for looks, very much after the fashion of his grandfather Thorstein or of Ketil Flatnef; and in all respects he was a very superior man.
Hrut was an unusually handsome man for looks, very much after the fashion of his grandfather Thorstein or of Ketil Flatnef; and in all respects he was a very superior man.
Herjolf was taken sick and died; and his death was felt to be a great loss.
Herjolf was taken sick and died; and his death was felt to be a great loss.
After this had happened Thorgerd grew uneasy and wanted to get back to Iceland again and to her son Höskuld, for she was fond of him beyond all others. So Hrut was left behind with his relations, in good hands.
After this had happened Thorgerd grew uneasy and wanted to get back to Iceland again and to her son Höskuld, for she was fond of him beyond all others. So Hrut was left behind with his relations, in good hands.
Thorgerd went out to Iceland and to her son Höskuld in Laxárdal.
Thorgerd went out to Iceland and to her son Höskuld in Laxárdal.
He made his mother welcome as best he could. She had much property, and she lived with Höskuld till the day of her death.
He made his mother welcome as best he could. She had much property, and she lived with Höskuld till the day of her death.
After a few years Thorgerd was taken sick and died, and she was buried in a grave-mound, and Höskuld took over all her property, all the while that he declared that half of it belonged to his brother Hrut.
After a few years Thorgerd was taken sick and died, and she was buried in a grave-mound, and Höskuld took over all her property, all the while that he declared that half of it belonged to his brother Hrut.
Í þenna tíma réð Nóregi Hákon Aðalsteinsfóstri.
Hǫskuldr var hirðmaðr hans; hann var jafnan sinn vetr hvárt með Hákoni konungi eða at búi sínu; var hann nafnfrægr maðr bæði í Nóregi ok á Íslandi.
Bjǫrn hét maðr; hann bjó í Bjarnarfirði ok nam þar land; við hann er kenndr fjǫrðrinn.
Sá fjǫrðr skersk í land norðr frá Steingrímsfirði, ok gengr þar fram háls í milli.
Bjǫrn var stórættaðr maðr ok auðigr at fé.
Ljúfa hét kona hans; þeira dóttir var Jórunn; hon var væn kona ok ofláti mikill; hon var ǫk skǫrungr mikill í vitsmunum.
(17) Sá þótti þá kostr beztr í ǫllum Vestfjǫrðum.
Af þessi konu hefir Hǫskuldr frétt, ok þat með, at Bjǫrn var beztr bóndi á ǫllum Strǫndum.
Hǫskuldr reið heiman með tíunda mann ok sœkir heim Bjǫrn bónda í Bjarnarfjǫrð.
Hǫskuldr fekk þar góðar viðtǫkur, því at Bjǫrn kunni góð skil á honum.
Síðan vekr Hǫskuldr bónorð, en Bjǫrn svarar því vel ok kvazk þat hyggja, at dóttir hans myndi eigi vera betr gipt, en veik þó til hennar ráða.
At this time Hakon Adalsteinsfostri was king of Norway.
At this time Hakon Adalsteinsfostri was king of Norway.
Höskuld was a liegeman of his. So that he spent every other winter at King Hakon’s court and at his home in Iceland. He was a man of renown both in Norway and in Iceland.
Höskuld was a liegeman of his. So that he spent every other winter at King Hakon’s court and at his home in Iceland. He was a man of renown both in Norway and in Iceland.
There was a certain man by the name of Björn. He was living in the Bjarnarfjord country, and he had himself taken up the land there.
There was a certain man by the name of Björn. He was living in the Bjarnarfjord country, and he had himself taken up the land there.
By his name the fjord is known which runs into the land northerly from the Steingrimsfjord. A neck of land runs out between.
By his name the fjord is known which runs into the land northerly from the Steingrimsfjord. A neck of land runs out between.
Björn was a man of good family and well-to-do.
Björn was a man of good family and well-to-do.
Ljufa was his wife’s name. Their daughter was Jorunn. She was a beautiful woman, prideful and much given to show. And she was a quite exceptionally clever woman too.
Ljufa was his wife’s name. Their daughter was Jorunn. She was a beautiful woman, prideful and much given to show. And she was a quite exceptionally clever woman too.
She was rated as the best match in all the country of the western fjords.
She was rated as the best match in all the country of the western fjords.
Höskuld had heard much talk about this woman, and also that Björn was the leading man among all the freeholders throughout the countryside of the Strands.
Höskuld had heard much talk about this woman, and also that Björn was the leading man among all the freeholders throughout the countryside of the Strands.
Höskuld rode out from home with a company of ten men and went on up to Björn’s place in Bjarnarfjord.
Höskuld rode out from home with a company of ten men and went on up to Björn’s place in Bjarnarfjord.
Höskuld met with a cordial welcome, for Björn knew all about him, and all in his favor.
Höskuld met with a cordial welcome, for Björn knew all about him, and all in his favor.
Presently Höskuld brought up his proposal of marriage, and Björn gave him a fair answer and said that to his thinking his daughter could not look for a better marriage, but he left it for her to decide.
Presently Höskuld brought up his proposal of marriage, and Björn gave him a fair answer and said that to his thinking his daughter could not look for a better marriage, but he left it for her to decide.
En hvárt sem at þessum málum var setit lengr eða skemr, þá var þat af ráðit, at Jórunn var fǫstnuð Hǫskuldi með miklu fé; skyldi brullaup þat vera á Hǫskuldsstǫðum.
Ríðr Hǫskuldr nú í brott við svá búit ok heim til bús síns ok er nú heima, til þess er boð þetta skyldi vera.
Sœkir Bjǫrn norðan til boðsins með fríðu fǫruneyti; Hǫskuldr hefir ok marga fyrirboðsmenn, (18) bæði vini sina ok frændr, ok er veizla þessi in skǫruligsta;
en er veizluna þraut, þá ferr hverr heim til sinna heimkynna með góðri vináttu ok sœmiligum gjǫfum.
Jórunn Bjarnardóttir sitr eptir á Hǫskuldsstǫðum ok tekr við bús umsýslu með Hǫskuldi; var þat brátt auðsætt á hennar hǫgum, at hon myndi vera vitr ok vel at sér ok margs vel kunnandi ok heldr skapstór jafnan.
Vel var um samfarar þeira Hǫskulds ok ekki mart hversdagliga.
Hǫskuldr gerisk nú hǫfðingi mikill; hann var ríkr ok kappsamr, ok skortir eigi fé; þótti hann í engan stað minni fyrir sér en Kollr, faðir hans.
Hǫskuldr ok Jórunn hǫfðu eigi lengi ásamt verit, áðr þeim varð barna auðit.
Sonr þeira var nefndr Þorleikr; hann var ellstr barna þeira; annarr hét Bárðr.
Dóttir þeira hét Hallgerðr, er síðan var kǫlluð langbrók; ǫnnur dóttir þeira hét Þuríðr; ǫll váru bǫrn þeira efnilig.
Þorleikr var mikill maðr ok sterkr ok inn sýniligsti, fálátr ok óþyðr; þótti mǫnnum sá svipr á um hans skaplyndi, sem hann myndi verða engi jafnaðarmaðr.
Hǫskuldr sagði þat jafnan, at hann myndi mjǫk líkjask í ætt þeira Strandamanna.
Bárðr Hǫskuldsson var ok skǫruligr maðr sýnum ok vel viti borinn ok sterkr; þat bragð hafði hann á sér, sem hann myndi líkari verða fǫðurfrændum sínum.
Bárðr var hœgr maðr í uppvexti sínum ok vinsæll maðr; Hǫskuldr unni honum mest allra barna sinna.
Stóð nú ráðahagr (19) Hǫskulds með miklum blóma ok virðingu.
Þenna tíma gipti Hǫskuldr Gró, systur sína, Véleifi gamla; þeira sonr var Hólmgǫngu-Bersi.
The long and short of these deliberations was that Jorunn was pledged to Höskuld, with a large dowry. This wedding was to be at Höskuldstadir.
The long and short of these deliberations was that Jorunn was pledged to Höskuld, with a large dowry. This wedding was to be at Höskuldstadir.
When this was arranged Höskuld rode away and back home to his own place and stayed quietly at home until the time set for the wedding.
When this was arranged Höskuld rode away and back home to his own place and stayed quietly at home until the time set for the wedding.
Björn came down from the north with a splendid retinue to the wedding, and Höskuld had many “fore guests”6
assembled to receive him, both friends and kinsfolk, and this wedding feast was altogether quite a sumptuous affair.
Björn came down from the north with a splendid retinue to the wedding, and Höskuld had many “fore guests”6
assembled to receive him, both friends and kinsfolk, and this wedding feast was altogether quite a sumptuous affair.
And when the festivities drew to a close each and all returned home to their own home-folks with many professions of goodwill and with handsome presents.
And when the festivities drew to a close each and all returned home to their own home-folks with many professions of goodwill and with handsome presents.
Jorunn Bjarnardaughter was left behind at Höskuldstadir and took over the duties of Höskuld’s household; and her management of affairs very soon showed that she was a woman of good sense, capable and well trained, and habitually somewhat overbearing.
Jorunn Bjarnardaughter was left behind at Höskuldstadir and took over the duties of Höskuld’s household; and her management of affairs very soon showed that she was a woman of good sense, capable and well trained, and habitually somewhat overbearing.
Höskuld and she got on well enough together, though with no great show of affection day by day.
Höskuld and she got on well enough together, though with no great show of affection day by day.
Höskuld now grew to be a powerful chieftain. He was hard-handed and something of a driver, and with no lack of means. He came to count for no less in his turn than his father Koll had done before him.
Höskuld now grew to be a powerful chieftain. He was hard-handed and something of a driver, and with no lack of means. He came to count for no less in his turn than his father Koll had done before him.
Höskuld and Jorunn had not been living together long before children were born to them.
Höskuld and Jorunn had not been living together long before children were born to them.
They had a son named Thorleik; he was the oldest of their children. A second son was named Bárd.
They had a son named Thorleik; he was the oldest of their children. A second son was named Bárd.
They had a daughter named Hallgerd Langbrok (Longhose)7
; another daughter was Thurid. (20) They all were promising children.
They had a daughter named Hallgerd Langbrok (Longhose)7
; another daughter was Thurid. (20) They all were promising children.
Thorleik was a large man and strong, and a fine figure of a man, close-mouthed and harsh-spoken, and the folks thought he promised to grow into an unreasonable fellow.
Thorleik was a large man and strong, and a fine figure of a man, close-mouthed and harsh-spoken, and the folks thought he promised to grow into an unreasonable fellow.
Höskuld was in the habit of saying that he took after his kinsfolk back in the Strand country.
Höskuld was in the habit of saying that he took after his kinsfolk back in the Strand country.
Bárd was a gallant-looking young fellow for looks and quite strong; and there was that about him which gave promise of his growing to be more like his father’s people.
Bárd was a gallant-looking young fellow for looks and quite strong; and there was that about him which gave promise of his growing to be more like his father’s people.
Bárd was an easy, good-natured person in his youth and he made many friends while he was growing up. He was Höskuld’s favorite, of all his children.
Bárd was an easy, good-natured person in his youth and he made many friends while he was growing up. He was Höskuld’s favorite, of all his children.
Höskuld’s affairs now stood in a high state of bloom and prestige.
Höskuld’s affairs now stood in a high state of bloom and prestige.
About this time Höskuld married off his sister Gro to V eleif tbe Gray; their son was Holmgongu-Bersi (Bersi the Duellist).
About this time Höskuld married off his sister Gro to V eleif tbe Gray; their son was Holmgongu-Bersi (Bersi the Duellist).
Hrappr hét maðr, er bjó í Laxárdal fyrir norðan ána, gegnt Hǫskuldsstǫðum; sá bœr hét síðan á Hrappsstǫðum; þar er nú auðn.
Hrappr var Sumarliðason ok kallaðr Víga-Hrappr; hann var skozkr at fǫðurætt, en móðurkyn hans var allt í Suðreyjum, ok þar var hann fœðingi;
mikill maðr var hann ok sterkr; ekki vildi hann láta sinn hlut, þó at manna munr væri nǫkkurr;
ok fyrir þat er hann var ódæll, sem ritat var, en vildi ekki bœta þat, er hann misgerði,
þá flýði hann vestan um haf ok keypti sér þá jǫrð, er hann bjó á.
Kona hans hét Vigdís ok var Hallsteinsdóttir; sonr þeira hét Sumarliði.
Bróðir hennar hét Þorsteinn surtr, er þá bjó í Þórsnesi, sem fyrr var ritat; var þar Sumarliði at fóstri ok var inn efniligsti maðr.
Þorsteinn hafði verit kvángaðr; kona hans var (20) þá ǫnduð.
Dœtr átti hann tvær; hét ǫnnur Guðríðr, en ǫnnur Ósk.
Þorkell trefill átti Guðríði, er bjó í Svignaskarði; hann var hǫfðingi mikill ok vitringr; hann var Rauða-Bjarnarson.
En Ósk, dóttir Þorsteins, var gefin breiðfirzkum manni; sá hét Þórarinn.
Hann var hraustr maðr ok vinsæll ok var með Þorsteini, mági sínum, því at Þorsteinn var þá hniginn ok þurfti umsýslu þeira mjǫk.
Hrappr var flestum mǫnnum ekki skapfelldr, var hann ágangssamr við nábúa sína;
veik hann á þat stundum fyrir þeim, at þeim myndi þungbýlt verða í nánd honum, ef þeir heldi nǫkkurn annan fyrir betra mann en hann.
En bœndr allir tóku eitt ráð, at þeir fóru til Hǫskulds ok sǫgðu honum sín vandræði.
Hǫskuldr bað sér segja, ef Hrappr gerir þeim nǫkkut mein, - “því at hvárki skal hann ræna mik mǫnnum né fé.”
There was a certain man by the name of Hrapp who was living in the valley of the Laxá, to the north of the river over against Höskuldstadir. The place has since been known as Hrappstadir. It is now lying waste.
There was a certain man by the name of Hrapp who was living in the valley of the Laxá, to the north of the river over against Höskuldstadir. The place has since been known as Hrappstadir. It is now lying waste.
Hrapp was a son of Sumarlidi and was nicknamed Viga-Hrapp (Hrapp the Killer). He was of Scottish extraction on his father’s side, while his mother’s folks all belonged in the Hebrides, where he too was born.
Hrapp was a son of Sumarlidi and was nicknamed Viga-Hrapp (Hrapp the Killer). He was of Scottish extraction on his father’s side, while his mother’s folks all belonged in the Hebrides, where he too was born.
A big man he was and stout. And he stood obstinately on his rights even when the odds were against him.
A big man he was and stout. And he stood obstinately on his rights even when the odds were against him.
And inasmuch as he was of a headstrong temper, as has just been written, and stubbornly refused to make amends for anything he had misdone,
And inasmuch as he was of a headstrong temper, as has just been written, and stubbornly refused to make amends for anything he had misdone,
he had fled from home overseas into this west country and had bought the ground on which he was then living.
he had fled from home overseas into this west country and had bought the ground on which he was then living.
His wife’s name was Vigdis, and she was a Hallsteinsdaughter. Their son was named Sumarlidi.
His wife’s name was Vigdis, and she was a Hallsteinsdaughter. Their son was named Sumarlidi.
Her brother was Thorstein Surt, who was then living in Thorsnes, as before was written. Sumarlidi was living with him as a foster-child and was a very promising boy.
Her brother was Thorstein Surt, who was then living in Thorsnes, as before was written. Sumarlidi was living with him as a foster-child and was a very promising boy.
Thorstein had been married. His wife was dead by this time.
Thorstein had been married. His wife was dead by this time.
He had two daughters, Gudrid and Osk.
He had two daughters, Gudrid and Osk.
Gudrid was married to Thorkel Trefil (Thorkel Rags), who was living at Svignaskard. He was a great chieftain and a very shrewd person. He was a son of Rauda-Björn.
Gudrid was married to Thorkel Trefil (Thorkel Rags), who was living at Svignaskard. He was a great chieftain and a very shrewd person. He was a son of Rauda-Björn.
Thorstein’s daughter Osk was married to a man in the Breidafjord country by the name of Thorarin.
Thorstein’s daughter Osk was married to a man in the Breidafjord country by the name of Thorarin.
He was (22) a sturdy man, with many friends, and he was then living with his father-in-law Thorstein; for Thorstein was getting to be quite old by that time and was quite dependent on their help.
He was (22) a sturdy man, with many friends, and he was then living with his father-in-law Thorstein; for Thorstein was getting to be quite old by that time and was quite dependent on their help.
Hrapp was on bad terms with nearly everybody, overbearing ·~md troublesome to his neighbors.
Hrapp was on bad terms with nearly everybody, overbearing ·~md troublesome to his neighbors.
He gave them a hint now and then that it would be quite awkward for them to go on living near him if they rated any other man above him.
He gave them a hint now and then that it would be quite awkward for them to go on living near him if they rated any other man above him.
So the farmers of the neighborhood all came to the same conclusion; they all went to Höskuld and laid their grievances before him.
So the farmers of the neighborhood all came to the same conclusion; they all went to Höskuld and laid their grievances before him.
And Höskuld told them to let him know if Hrapp molested them in any way, “for he shall not rob me of either persons or property.”
And Höskuld told them to let him know if Hrapp molested them in any way, “for he shall not rob me of either persons or property.”
Þórðr goddi hét maðr, er bjó í Laxárdal fyrir norðan á; sá bœr heitir síðan á Goddastǫðum.
Hann var auðmaðr mikill; engi átti hann bǫrn; keypta hafði hann jǫrð þá, er hann bjó á.
Hann var nábúi Hrapps ok fekk opt þungt af honum.
Hǫskuldr sá um með honum, svá at hann helt bústað sínum.
Vigdís (21) hét kona hans ok var Ingjalds dóttir, Óláfs sonar feilans; bróðurdóttir var hon Þórðar gellis, en systurdóttir Þórólfs rauðnefs frá Sauðafelli.
Þórólfr var hetja mikil ok átti góða kosti; frændr hans gengu þangat jafnan til trausts.
Vigdís var meir gefin til fjár en brautargengis.
Þórðr átti þræl þann, er út kom með honum; sá hét Ásgautr.
Hann var mikill maðr ok gørviligr, en þótt hann væri þræll kallaðr, þá máttu fáir taka hann til jafnaðarmanns við sik, þótt frjálsir héti, ok vel kunni hann at þjóna sínum yfirmanni.
Fleiri átti Þórðr þræla, þó at þessi sé einn nefndr.
Thord Goddi was the name of a man who was living in the valley of the Laxá, on the north of the river, at Goddastadir.
Thord Goddi was the name of a man who was living in the valley of the Laxá, on the north of the river, at Goddastadir.
He was a very wealthy man. He had no children. He had bought the ground he was living on.
He was a very wealthy man. He had no children. He had bought the ground he was living on.
He was a neighbor of Hrapp’s and was often put upon by him.
He was a neighbor of Hrapp’s and was often put upon by him.
Höskuld kept an eye on him, so that he was able to hold on to his homestead.
Höskuld kept an eye on him, so that he was able to hold on to his homestead.
His wife was Vigdis, daughter of Ingjald8
son of Olaf Feilan; a brother’s-daughter of Thord Gellir (Thord the Bellower) and also a sister’sdaughter of Thorolf Raudnef (Rednose) of Saudafell.
His wife was Vigdis, daughter of Ingjald8
son of Olaf Feilan; a brother’s-daughter of Thord Gellir (Thord the Bellower) and also a sister’sdaughter of Thorolf Raudnef (Rednose) of Saudafell.
Thorolf was a good deal of a bully as well as a man of means, and his kinsfolk were in the habit of turning to him in case of trouble.
Thorolf was a good deal of a bully as well as a man of means, and his kinsfolk were in the habit of turning to him in case of trouble.
Vigdis had been married off for money rather than by inclination.
Vigdis had been married off for money rather than by inclination.
Thord had a slave who had come out with him. His name was Asgaut.
Thord had a slave who had come out with him. His name was Asgaut.
He was a large and able-bodied fellow, and even if he bore the name of slave, yet there were few men who could fairly be called his equal even though they were freemen; and he was a good and faithful servant to his master.
He was a large and able-bodied fellow, and even if he bore the name of slave, yet there were few men who could fairly be called his equal even though they were freemen; and he was a good and faithful servant to his master.
Thord also had other slaves, although this one alone is mentioned by name.
Thord also had other slaves, although this one alone is mentioned by name.
Þat varð til tíðenda um sumarit ǫndvert, at konungr fór í stefnuleiðangr austr í Brenneyjar ok gerði frið fyrir land sitt, eptir því sem lǫg stóðu til, it þriðja hvert sumar;
sá fundr skyldi vera lagðr hǫfðingja í milli at setja þeim málum, er konungar áttu um at dœma.
Þat þótti skemmtanarfǫr at sœkja þann fund, því at þangat kómu menn nær af ǫllum lǫndum, þeim er vér hǫfum tíðendi af.
Hǫskuldr setti fram skip sitt; vildi hann ok sœkja fund þenna, því at hann hafði eigi fundit konung á þeim vetri.
Þangat var ok kaupstefnu at sœkja. Fundr þessi var allfjǫlmennr; þar var skemmtan mikil, drykkjur ok leikar ok alls kyns gleði; ekki varð þar til stórtíðenda.
Marga hitti Hǫskuldr þar frændr sína, þá sem í Danmǫrku váru.
Ok einn dag, er Hǫskuldr gekk at skemmta sér með nǫkkura menn, sá hann tjald eitt skrautligt fjarri ǫðrum búðum.
Hǫskuldr gekk þangat ok í tjaldit, ok sat þar maðr fyrir í guðvefjarklæðum ok hafði gerzkan (23) hatt á hǫfði.
Hǫskuldr spurði þann mann at nafni, hann nefndisk Gilli, - “en þá kannask margir við, ef heyra kenningarnafn mitt; ek em kallaðr Gilli inn gerzki.”
It turned out that in the early summer the king sailed out in force to the eastward, to the Brenn Islands12
to renew the compact of peace for his country, as the law required to be done every third year.
It turned out that in the early summer the king sailed out in force to the eastward, to the Brenn Islands12
to renew the compact of peace for his country, as the law required to be done every third year.
This was a meeting appointed between the sovereigns to dispose of such questions as came under the joint jurisdiction of the kings.
This was a meeting appointed between the sovereigns to dispose of such questions as came under the joint jurisdiction of the kings.
And it was something of a holiday to attend this gathering, for men came together there from nearly every country of which we have any knowledge.
And it was something of a holiday to attend this gathering, for men came together there from nearly every country of which we have any knowledge.
Then Höskuld ran out his ship. He too had a mind to go to this meeting, particularly as he had not gone to see the king that winter.
Then Höskuld ran out his ship. He too had a mind to go to this meeting, particularly as he had not gone to see the king that winter.
The place was also a good market. The gathering was a very large one and there was a good deal of merrymaking, drinking and games and all kinds of amusements. There was nothing much to tell about,
The place was also a good market. The gathering was a very large one and there was a good deal of merrymaking, drinking and games and all kinds of amusements. There was nothing much to tell about,
but Höskuld met a number of his kinsfolk there, of those who were living in Denmark.
but Höskuld met a number of his kinsfolk there, of those who were living in Denmark.
And on a certain day when Höskuld was strolling about bent on diversion in company with several others he came upon a large and handsome tent which stood somewhat apart from the other booths.
And on a certain day when Höskuld was strolling about bent on diversion in company with several others he came upon a large and handsome tent which stood somewhat apart from the other booths.
Höskuld went up to it and into the tent, and there sat a man before them dressed in rich brocade and with a Russian hat on his head.
Höskuld went up to it and into the tent, and there sat a man before them dressed in rich brocade and with a Russian hat on his head.
Höskuld asked the man his name. He gave his name as Gilli; “but many know me better by my nickname: They call me Gilli the Greek.”
Höskuld asked the man his name. He gave his name as Gilli; “but many know me better by my nickname: They call me Gilli the Greek.”
Hǫskuldr svaf hjá húsfreyju sinni hverja nótt, síðan hann kom heim, en hann var fár við frilluna.
(27) Ǫllum mǫnnum var auðsætt stórmennsku-mót á henni ok svá þat, at hon var engi afglapi.
Ok á ofanverðum vetri þeim fœddi frilla Hǫskulds sveinbarn;
siðan var Hǫskuldr þangat kallaðr, ok var honum sýnt barnit;
sýndisk honum sem ǫðrum, at hann þóttisk eigi sét hafa vænna barn né stórmannligra.
Hǫskuldr var at spurðr, hvat sveinninn skyldi heita.
Hann bað sveininn kalla Óláf, því at þá hafði Óláfr feilan andazk litlu áðr, móðurbróðir hans.
Óláfr var afbragð flestra barna. Hǫskuldr lagði ást mikla við sveininn.
Um sumarit eptir mælti Jórunn, at frillan myndi upp taka verknað nǫkkurn eða fara í brott ella.
Hǫskuldr bað hana vinna þeim hjónum ok gæta þar við sveins síns.
En þá er sveinninn var tvævetr, þá var hann almæltr ok rann einn saman, sem fjǫgurra vetra gǫmul bǫrn.
Þat var til tíðenda einn morgun, er Hǫskuldr var genginn út at sjá um bœ sinn; veðr var gott; skein sól ok var lítt á lopt komin; hann heyrði mannamál;
hann gekk þangat til, sem lœkr fell fyrir túnbrekkunni; sá hann þar tvá menn ok kenndi; var þar Óláfr, sonr hans, ok móðir hans;
fær hann þá skilit, at hon var eigi mállaus, því at hon talaði þá mart við sveininn.
Síðan gekk Hǫskuldr at þeim ok spyrr hana at nafni ok kvað henni ekki mundu stoða at dyljask lengr.
Hon kvað svá vera skyldu; setjask þau niðr í túnbrekkuna. Síðan mælti hon: “Ef þú vill nafn mitt vita, þá heiti ek Melkorka.”
Hǫskuldr bað hana þá segja lengra ætt sína.
Hon svarar: “Mýrkjartan heitir faðir minn; hann er konungr á Írlandi.
Ek var þaðan (28) hertekin fimmtán vetra gǫmul.”
Höskuld slept with his wife every night after he came home, and he had little to do with the concubine.
Höskuld slept with his wife every night after he came home, and he had little to do with the concubine.
It was plain to be seen that she was proud and well-bred, and also that she was no one’s fool.
It was plain to be seen that she was proud and well-bred, and also that she was no one’s fool.
And in the late winter Höskuld’s concubine gave birth to a boy.
And in the late winter Höskuld’s concubine gave birth to a boy.
Then Höskuld was called in and the child was shown him.
Then Höskuld was called in and the child was shown him.
And it seemed to him as to the rest of them that he had never seen a nobler or more beautiful child.
And it seemed to him as to the rest of them that he had never seen a nobler or more beautiful child.
Höskuld was asked to name the boy.
Höskuld was asked to name the boy.
He told them to call the boy Olaf, because his maternal uncle, Olaf Feilan, had died shortly before.
He told them to call the boy Olaf, because his maternal uncle, Olaf Feilan, had died shortly before.
Olaf was quite an exceptional child, and Höskuld was very fond of him.
Olaf was quite an exceptional child, and Höskuld was very fond of him.
The following summer Jorunn declared that the concubine would have to go to work or else go away.
The following summer Jorunn declared that the concubine would have to go to work or else go away.
So Höskuld arranged to have her wait on the two of them and at the same time take care of her boy.
So Höskuld arranged to have her wait on the two of them and at the same time take care of her boy.
By the time the boy was two years old he was talking fluently and ran about by himself like any four-year-old child.
By the time the boy was two years old he was talking fluently and ran about by himself like any four-year-old child.
It so happened one morning when Höskuld was looking about on the farm, in fine weather and sunshine, shortly after sunrise, that he heard voices of someone talking.
It so happened one morning when Höskuld was looking about on the farm, in fine weather and sunshine, shortly after sunrise, that he heard voices of someone talking.
He followed the voices and came out where a brook ran by the foot of the farmyard. There he came upon a couple whom he recognized as his son Olaf with his mother.
He followed the voices and came out where a brook ran by the foot of the farmyard. There he came upon a couple whom he recognized as his son Olaf with his mother.
So he found out that she was not speechless, for she was talking quite freely to her boy.
So he found out that she was not speechless, for she was talking quite freely to her boy.
So now Höskuld went down to them and asked her name, and told her it was quite useless to make believe any longer; to all of which she agreed.
So now Höskuld went down to them and asked her name, and told her it was quite useless to make believe any longer; to all of which she agreed.
So they sat down together on the bank below the field and she then told him, “If you want to know my name, it is Melkorka.”
So they sat down together on the bank below the field and she then told him, “If you want to know my name, it is Melkorka.”
And when Höskuld asked her to go on and tell him more about her kin and connections,
And when Höskuld asked her to go on and tell him more about her kin and connections,
she went on to say, “Myrkjartan is my father’s name. He is a king in Ireland.
she went on to say, “Myrkjartan is my father’s name. He is a king in Ireland.
I was kidnapped out of that country by pirates when I was fifteen years old.”
I was kidnapped out of that country by pirates when I was fifteen years old.”
Hǫskuldr kvað hana helzti lengi hafa þagat yfir svá góðri ætt.
Síðan gekk Hǫskuldr inn ok sagði Jórunni, hvat til nýlundu hafði gǫrzk í ferð hans.
Jórunn kvazk eigi vita, hvat hon segði satt; kvað sér ekki um kynjamenn alla, ok skilja þau þessa rœðu;
var Jórunn hvergi betr við hana en áðr, en Hǫskuldr nǫkkuru fleiri.
Ok litlu síðar, er Jórunn gekk at sofa, togaði Melkorka af henni ok lagði skóklæðin á gólfit.
Jórunn tók sokkana ok keyrði um hǫfuð henni.
Melkorka reiddisk ok setti hnefann á nasar henni, svá at blóð varð laust.
Hǫskuldr kom at ok skilði þær.
Eptir þat lét hann Melkorku í brott fara ok fekk henni þar bústað uppi í Laxárdal; þar heitir síðan á Melkorkustǫðum; þar er nú auðn; þat er fyrir sunnan Laxá.
Setr Melkorka þar bú saman; fær Hǫskuldr þar til bús allt þat, er hafa þurfti, ok fór Óláfr, sonr þeira, með henni.
Brátt sér þat á Óláfi, er hann óx upp, at hann myndi verða mikit afbragð annarra manna fyrir vænleiks sakir ok kurteisi.
Höskuld told her she had kept silent altogether too long about such a noble birth.
Höskuld told her she had kept silent altogether too long about such a noble birth.
Presently Höskuld went on indoors and told Jorunn about this news that he had come across.
Presently Höskuld went on indoors and told Jorunn about this news that he had come across.
Jorunn (31) replied that she did not know if the woman was telling the truth, and remarked that she did not fancy marvelous folks, anyway; and so nothing more was said about it.
Jorunn (31) replied that she did not know if the woman was telling the truth, and remarked that she did not fancy marvelous folks, anyway; and so nothing more was said about it.
Jorunn treated her no better than before, though Höskuld was rather more attentive.
Jorunn treated her no better than before, though Höskuld was rather more attentive.
Shortly after this, as Jorunn was undressing for bed one evening, Melkorka was drawing off her shoes and stockings and dropped them on the floor;
Shortly after this, as Jorunn was undressing for bed one evening, Melkorka was drawing off her shoes and stockings and dropped them on the floor;
whereupon Jorunn picked up the stockings and fetched her about the ears with them.
whereupon Jorunn picked up the stockings and fetched her about the ears with them.
Melkorka flared up in anger and punched her nose with her fist, so that it drew blood.
Melkorka flared up in anger and punched her nose with her fist, so that it drew blood.
Höskuld came in and parted them.
Höskuld came in and parted them.
After this Höskuld sent Melkorka away, and he made up a home for her farther up the Laxárdal. The place has since gone by the name of Melkorkustadir. It is now deserted. It lies on the south bank of the Laxá.
After this Höskuld sent Melkorka away, and he made up a home for her farther up the Laxárdal. The place has since gone by the name of Melkorkustadir. It is now deserted. It lies on the south bank of the Laxá.
There Melkorka made herself a home. Höskuld found whatever was needed for the household. Their son Olaf went with her.
There Melkorka made herself a home. Höskuld found whatever was needed for the household. Their son Olaf went with her.
And as Olaf grew up it was plain to be seen that he would grow into an uncommonly handsome and well-bred man.
And as Olaf grew up it was plain to be seen that he would grow into an uncommonly handsome and well-bred man.
Ingjaldr hét maðr; hann bjó í Sauðeyjum; þær liggja á Breiðafirði.
Hann var kallaðr Sauðeyjargoði; hann var auðigr maðr ok mikill fyrir sér.
Hallr hét bróðir hans; hann var mikill maðr ok efniligr.
Hann var félítill maðr; engi var hann nytjungr kallaðr af flestum mǫnnum.
Ekki váru þeir brœðr samþykkir (29) optast; þótti Ingjaldi Hallr lítt vilja sik semja í sið dugandi manna, en Halli þótti Ingjaldr lítt vilja sitt ráð hefja til þroska.
Veiðistǫð sú liggr á Breiðafirði, er Bjarneyjar heita; þær eyjar eru margar saman ok váru mjǫk gagnauðgar.
Í þann tíma sóttu menn þangat mjǫk til veiðifangs; var ok þar fjǫlmennt mjǫk ǫllum missarum.
Mikit þótti spǫkum mǫnnum undir því, at menn ætti gott saman í útverjum; var þat þá mælt, at mǫnnum yrði ógæfra um veiðifang, ef missáttir yrði; gáfu ok flestir menn at því góðan gaum.
Þat er sagt eitthvert sumar, at Hallr, bróðir Ingjalds Sauðeyjargoða, kom í Bjarneyjar ok ætlaði til fangs; hann tók sér skipan með þeim manni, er Þórólfr hét.
Hann var breiðfirzkr maðr, ok hann var náliga lausingi einn félauss ok þó fráligr maðr.
Hallr er þar um hríð, ok þykkisk hann mjǫk fyrir ǫðrum mǫnnum.
Þat var eitt kveld, at þeir koma at landi, Hallr ok Þórólfr, ok skyldu skipta fengi sínu; vildi Hallr bæði kjósa ok deila, því at hann þóttisk þar meiri maðr fyrir sér.
Þórólfr vildi eigi láta sinn hlut ok var allstórorðr; skiptusk þeir nǫkkurum orðum við, ok þótti sinn veg hvárum;
þrífr þá Hallr upp hǫggjárn, er lá hjá honum, ok vill fœra í hǫfuð Þórólfi.
Nú hlaupa menn í milli þeira ok stǫðva Hall, en hann var inn óðasti ok gat þó engu á leið komit at því sinni, ok ekki varð fengi þeira skipt.
Rézk nú Þórólfr á brott um kveldit, (30) en Hallr tók einn upp fang þat, er þeir áttu báðir, því at þá kenndi at ríkismunar;
fær nú Hallr sér mann í stað Þórólfs á skipit; heldr nú til fangs sem áðr.
Þórólfr unir illa við sinn hlut; þykkisk hann mjǫk svívirðr vera í þeira skiptum;
er hann þar þó í eyjunum ok hefir þat at vísu í hug sér, at rétta þenna krók, er honum var svá nauðuliga beygðr.
Hallr uggir ekki at sér ok hugsar þat, at engir menn muni þora at halda til jafns við hann þar í átthaga hans.
Þat var einn góðan veðrdag, at Hallr reri, ok váru þeir þrír á skipi;
bítr vel á um daginn; róa þeir heim at kveldi ok eru mjǫk kátir.
Þórólfr hefir njósn af athǫfn Halls um daginn ok er staddr í vǫrum um kveldit, þá er þeir Hallr koma at landi.
Hallr reri í hálsi fram; hann hleypr fyrir borð ok ætlar at taka við skipinu; ok er hann hleypr á land, þá er Þórólfr þar nær staddr ok høggr til hans þegar;
kom hǫggit á hálsinn við herðarnar, ok fykr af hǫfuðit.
Þórólfr snýr á brott eptir þat, en þeir félagar Halls styrma yfir honum.
Spyrjask nú þessi tíðendi um eyjarnar, víg Halls, ok þykkja þat mikil tíðendi, því at maðr var kynstórr, þótt hann hefði engi auðnumaðr verit.
Þórólfr leitar nú á brott ór eyjunum, því at hann veit þar engra þeira manna ván, er skjóli muni skjóta yfir hann eptir þetta stórvirki.
Hann átti þar ok enga frændr, þá er hann mætti sér trausts af vænta, en þeir menn sátu nær, er vís ván var, at um líf hans myndi sitja, ok hǫfðu mikit vald, svá sem Ingjaldr Sauðeyjagoði, bróðir Halls.
Þórólfr fekk sér flutning inn til meginlands.
Hann ferr mjǫk hulðu hǫfði; er ekki af sagt hans ferð, áðr hann (31) kemr einn dag at kveldi á Goddastaði.
Vigdís, kona Þórðar godda, var nǫkkut skyld Þórólfi, ok sneri hann því þangat til bœjar; spurn hafði Þórólfr af því áðr, hversu þar var háttat, at Vigdís var meiri skǫrungr í skapi en Þórðr, bóndi hennar.
Ok þegar um kveldit, er Þórólfr var þar kominn, gengr hann til fundar við Vigdísi ok segir henni til sinna vandræða ok biðr hana ásjá.
Vigdís svarar á þá leið hans máli: “Ekki dyljumk ek við skuldleika okkra; þykki mér ok þann veg at eins verk þetta, er þú hefir unnit, at ek kalla þik ekki at verra dreng;
en þó sýnisk mér svá, sem þeir menn muni veðsetja bæði sik ok fé sitt, er þér veita ásjá, svá stórir menn sem hér munu veita eptirsjár;
en Þórðr, bóndi minn,” segir hon, “er ekki garpmenni mikit, en órráð vor kvenna verða jafnan með lítilli forsjá, ef nǫkkurs þarf við;
en þó nenni ek eigi með ǫllu at víkjask undan við þik, alls þú hefir þó hér til nǫkkurrar ásjá ætlat.”
There was a man by the name of Ingjald. He lived in the Saudeyar (Sheep Islands). These islands lie in the Breidafjord.
There was a man by the name of Ingjald. He lived in the Saudeyar (Sheep Islands). These islands lie in the Breidafjord.
He was known as the Saudeyar-Godi.17
He was a wealthy man and wise in his generation.
He was known as the Saudeyar-Godi.17
He was a wealthy man and wise in his generation.
Hall was his brother’s name. He was a man of large size and good promise.
Hall was his brother’s name. He was a man of large size and good promise.
He was poor, and was commonly counted something of a worthless fellow.
He was poor, and was commonly counted something of a worthless fellow.
Much of the time the two brothers did not get on well together. To Ingjald, Hall appeared to be quite careless about observing the proprieties and the good opinion of his substantial neighbors; and to Hall, Ingjald appeared to take quite too little pains about helping him make his way.
Much of the time the two brothers did not get on well together. To Ingjald, Hall appeared to be quite careless about observing the proprieties and the good opinion of his substantial neighbors; and to Hall, Ingjald appeared to take quite too little pains about helping him make his way.
Out in the Breidafjord there is a fishing-station known as the Bjarneyar. There are a number of these islands lying in a group, and the place was a very profitable fishingground.
Out in the Breidafjord there is a fishing-station known as the Bjarneyar. There are a number of these islands lying in a group, and the place was a very profitable fishingground.
At that time many men were in the habit of resorting to the place for the fishing, and there were many gathered there every season.
At that time many men were in the habit of resorting to the place for the fishing, and there were many gathered there every season.
And all men of sense were concerned to see that these folk should live together in peace and goodwill on these outlying fishinggrounds;_it was the talk at that time that the fishermen’s luck would fail them if they fell out among themselves, and most of the men so believed and were careful.
And all men of sense were concerned to see that these folk should live together in peace and goodwill on these outlying fishinggrounds;_it was the talk at that time that the fishermen’s luck would fail them if they fell out among themselves, and most of the men so believed and were careful.
(33) One summer, it is said, Hall, the brother of Ingjald the Saudeyar-Godi, also came out to the Saudeyar for the fishing. He shared a boat with a certain man by the name of Thorolf,
(33) One summer, it is said, Hall, the brother of Ingjald the Saudeyar-Godi, also came out to the Saudeyar for the fishing. He shared a boat with a certain man by the name of Thorolf,
from the Breidafjord country; a foot-loose person with next to no means.
from the Breidafjord country; a foot-loose person with next to no means.
Yet he was a stout and handy man. Hall stayed on there for some time, and gave himself an air of being a better man than the rest of them.
Yet he was a stout and handy man. Hall stayed on there for some time, and gave himself an air of being a better man than the rest of them.
Now, one evening when Hall and Thorolf came ashore and were dividing their catch between them, Hall took it upon himself both to divide and to choose shares; he thought himself so much the better man.
Now, one evening when Hall and Thorolf came ashore and were dividing their catch between them, Hall took it upon himself both to divide and to choose shares; he thought himself so much the better man.
But Thorol£ would yield nothing of what he thought was his due, and used big words about it. They got into a dispute, and both got angry.
But Thorol£ would yield nothing of what he thought was his due, and used big words about it. They got into a dispute, and both got angry.
Hall picked up a cleaver that was lying beside him and made to hit Thorolf on the head with it;
Hall picked up a cleaver that was lying beside him and made to hit Thorolf on the head with it;
but the men ran in and held Hall off. He was all in a rage, but he got nothing done about it at the time. Their catch, too, was not divided.
but the men ran in and held Hall off. He was all in a rage, but he got nothing done about it at the time. Their catch, too, was not divided.
Thorolf took himself away during the evening, and Hall took up the catch of fish belonging to both of them. The odds of birth and kindred counted for something.
Thorolf took himself away during the evening, and Hall took up the catch of fish belonging to both of them. The odds of birth and kindred counted for something.
Hall now found another man to take Thorolf’s place in the boat and went on with the fishing as before.
Hall now found another man to take Thorolf’s place in the boat and went on with the fishing as before.
Thorolf was ill content with his lot; felt himself greatly put to shame in this transaction.
Thorolf was ill content with his lot; felt himself greatly put to shame in this transaction.
Yet he stayed on in the islands, with his mind made up somehow to straighten out this twist that had been put upon him so much to his misliking.
Yet he stayed on in the islands, with his mind made up somehow to straighten out this twist that had been put upon him so much to his misliking.
Hall had no misgivings, considering always that no man would dare call him to account here within the preserves of his own kinsfolk.
Hall had no misgivings, considering always that no man would dare call him to account here within the preserves of his own kinsfolk.
Now, on a certain day of fair weather Hall rowed out to his fishing together with two others in the boat.
Now, on a certain day of fair weather Hall rowed out to his fishing together with two others in the boat.
The fish had been biting well during the day, and the men came rowing home in the evening in high spirits.
The fish had been biting well during the day, and the men came rowing home in the evening in high spirits.
Thorolf kept watch of Hall’s movements during the day and was at the landing that evening when Hall and (34) his men came ashore.
Thorolf kept watch of Hall’s movements during the day and was at the landing that evening when Hall and (34) his men came ashore.
Hall was rowing in the bows, and as the boat touched the ground he jumped overboard to lay the boat up to the landing, and when he jumped out on the beach Thorolf was at hand and struck him down.
Hall was rowing in the bows, and as the boat touched the ground he jumped overboard to lay the boat up to the landing, and when he jumped out on the beach Thorolf was at hand and struck him down.
The edge took him across the neck, by the shoulders, and his head tumbled off.
The edge took him across the neck, by the shoulders, and his head tumbled off.
Thorolf made off after that, while Hall’s comrades were fumbling about him.
Thorolf made off after that, while Hall’s comrades were fumbling about him.
Now this news of the killing of Hall spread swiftly throughout the islands, and it seemed very serious news; for the man had good and wide connections, although he had not been a man of good fortune.
Now this news of the killing of Hall spread swiftly throughout the islands, and it seemed very serious news; for the man had good and wide connections, although he had not been a man of good fortune.
Thorolf set about getting away out of the islands, for he knew of no one there who would be likely to take his part after this exploit.
Thorolf set about getting away out of the islands, for he knew of no one there who would be likely to take his part after this exploit.
He had no kinsfolk in that neighborhood to whom he could turn for help, at the same time that there were those men near at hand who would be sure to try for his life and who had the means to do it, such as Ingjald the Saudeyar-Godi, Hall’s brother.
He had no kinsfolk in that neighborhood to whom he could turn for help, at the same time that there were those men near at hand who would be sure to try for his life and who had the means to do it, such as Ingjald the Saudeyar-Godi, Hall’s brother.
Thorolf found passage to the mainland,
Thorolf found passage to the mainland,
and he kept himself in close hiding. There is nothing further told of his doings until he came to Goddastadir one day towards nightfall.
and he kept himself in close hiding. There is nothing further told of his doings until he came to Goddastadir one day towards nightfall.
Vigdis, Thord’s wife, was a relative of Thorolf’s, and it was on the strength of this that he turned up at this farmstead. And Thorolf already had heard something beforehand of how matters stood, that Vigdis had rather more of a man’s temper than her husband Thord.
Vigdis, Thord’s wife, was a relative of Thorolf’s, and it was on the strength of this that he turned up at this farmstead. And Thorolf already had heard something beforehand of how matters stood, that Vigdis had rather more of a man’s temper than her husband Thord.
And as soon as he reached the place he turned to Vigdis that same evening and told her his troubles and begged her to help him out.
And as soon as he reached the place he turned to Vigdis that same evening and told her his troubles and begged her to help him out.
Vigdis answered his pleadings to this effect: “It is not for me to deny the kinship there is between us, and I have only this to say about this thing which you have done, that I call you no less of a man for all that;
Vigdis answered his pleadings to this effect: “It is not for me to deny the kinship there is between us, and I have only this to say about this thing which you have done, that I call you no less of a man for all that;
and yet it seems plain to me that anyone who helps you out in your trouble will be risking both his own life and his property, (35) seeing what powerful men have the call to take up the feud against you.
and yet it seems plain to me that anyone who helps you out in your trouble will be risking both his own life and his property, (35) seeing what powerful men have the call to take up the feud against you.
And my husband Thord,” she went on to say, “is no daring fellow; and a woman’s meddling in these affairs is not commonly of much effect in a case of need.
And my husband Thord,” she went on to say, “is no daring fellow; and a woman’s meddling in these affairs is not commonly of much effect in a case of need.
Arid yet I can not make up my mind to turn you adrift altogether, seeing that you have come here looking for something in the way of help.”
Arid yet I can not make up my mind to turn you adrift altogether, seeing that you have come here looking for something in the way of help.”
En þó var Þórólfr þar um vetrinn.
Þetta spurði Ingjaldr, er eptir bróður sinn átti at mæla.
Hann býr ferð sína í Dali inn at áliðnum vetri, setti fram ferju, er hann átti; þeir váru tólf saman.
Þeir sigla vestan útnyrðing hvassan ok lenda í Laxárósi um kveldit, setja upp ferjuna, en fara á Goddastaði um kveldit ok koma þar ekki á óvart; er þar tekit vel við þeim.
Ingjaldr brá Þórði á mál ok sagði honum ørendi sitt, at hann kvezk þar hafa spurt til Þórólfs, bróðurbana síns.
Þórðr kvað þat engu gegna.
Ingjaldr bað hann eigi þræta, - “ok skulu vit eiga kaup saman, at þú sel manninn fram ok lát mik eigi þurfa þraut til, en ek hefi hér þrjár merkr silfrs, er þú skalt eignask;
upp mun ek ok gefa þér sakar þær, er þú hefir gǫrt á hendr þér í bjǫrgum við Þórólf.”
Still, Thorolf stayed on there through the winter.
Still, Thorolf stayed on there through the winter.
This came to Ingjald’s notice; who was due to bring action on his brother’s account.
This came to Ingjald’s notice; who was due to bring action on his brother’s account.
He made ready to set out for the inner country of Breidafjord toward the end of winter, got out a small vessel which he owned and (36)set sail with a company of twelve.
He made ready to set out for the inner country of Breidafjord toward the end of winter, got out a small vessel which he owned and (36)set sail with a company of twelve.
They ran down from the west in a stiff northwester and landed in the mouth of the Laxá at nightfall, drew up the boat, and went on to Goddastadir that same evening. Their coming was not unexpected, and they were well received.
They ran down from the west in a stiff northwester and landed in the mouth of the Laxá at nightfall, drew up the boat, and went on to Goddastadir that same evening. Their coming was not unexpected, and they were well received.
Ingjald called Thord aside and brought up his errand that he had learned of Thorolf’s being there, his brother’s slayer.
Ingjald called Thord aside and brought up his errand that he had learned of Thorolf’s being there, his brother’s slayer.
Thord said there was nothing to it.
Thord said there was nothing to it.
But Ingjald told him not to argue the point; “Let us rather come to terms. You hand the man over and so not drive me to use force; and I have brought with me three marks of silver which will be yours.
But Ingjald told him not to argue the point; “Let us rather come to terms. You hand the man over and so not drive me to use force; and I have brought with me three marks of silver which will be yours.
At the same time I will overlook any blame you have incurred in harboring Thorolf.”
At the same time I will overlook any blame you have incurred in harboring Thorolf.”
Ásgautr játtaði því ok fór til sauðahússins ok hitti þar Þórólf; hann bað þá fara á brott sem tíðast.
Í þenna tíma ríðr Ingjaldr af Goddastǫðum, því at hann ætlaði at heimta þá verð fyrir silfrit;
ok er hann var kominn ofan frá bœnum, þá sjá þeir tvá menn fara í móti sér, ok var þar Ásgautr ok Þórólfr.
Þetta var snimma um morgin, svá at lítt var lýst af degi.
(34) Þeir Ásgautr ok Þórólfr váru komnir í svá mikinn klofa, at Ingjaldr var á aðra hǫnd, en Laxá á aðra hǫnd.
Áin var ákafliga mikil; váru hǫfuðísar at báðum megin, en gengin upp eptir miðju, ok var áin allill at sœkja.
Þórólfr mælti við Ásgaut: “Nú þykki mér, sem vit munim eiga tvá kosti fyrir hǫndum.
Sá er kostr annarr, at bíða þeira hér við ána ok verjask, eptir því sem okkr endisk hreysti til ok drengskapr; en þó er þess meiri ván, at þeir Ingjaldr sœki líf okkart skjótt;
sá er annarr kostr at ráða til árinnar, ok mun þat þykkja þó enn með nǫkkurri hættu.”
Asgaut agreed to do so, and went down to the sheep-cote and found Thorolf, and told him to come away with him at once.
Asgaut agreed to do so, and went down to the sheep-cote and found Thorolf, and told him to come away with him at once.
About the same time Ingjald was setting out from Goddastadir with his men, for he was now looking to get the value of his (38) silver.
About the same time Ingjald was setting out from Goddastadir with his men, for he was now looking to get the value of his (38) silver.
And on going down the road from the farmyard they saw two men coming to meet them. They were Asgaut and Thorolf.
And on going down the road from the farmyard they saw two men coming to meet them. They were Asgaut and Thorolf.
This was early morning, so that there was but little daylight.
This was early morning, so that there was but little daylight.
Now Asgaut and Thorolf found themselves in a good deal of a pinch, with Ingjald to one side and the Laxá river on the other.
Now Asgaut and Thorolf found themselves in a good deal of a pinch, with Ingjald to one side and the Laxá river on the other.
The river was running at a high flood, with a strip of ice along either bank and open water in midstream. The river was very forbidding.
The river was running at a high flood, with a strip of ice along either bank and open water in midstream. The river was very forbidding.
Then Thorolf turned to Asgaut and said: “Now it looks to me as if we had two things to choose between;
Then Thorolf turned to Asgaut and said: “Now it looks to me as if we had two things to choose between;
one is to stay and wait for them here on the bank and make a fight for it as long as our strength and courage lasts; and the chances are that Ingjald will make short work of taking our lives.
one is to stay and wait for them here on the bank and make a fight for it as long as our strength and courage lasts; and the chances are that Ingjald will make short work of taking our lives.
Our other choice is to take to the river, and that too looks like taking chances.”
Our other choice is to take to the river, and that too looks like taking chances.”
En er þeir Þórólfr sjá þetta, at þeir Ingjaldr ráða eigi til árinnar, þá vinda þeir fyrst klæði sín ok búa sik til gǫngu ok ganga þann dag allan; koma at kveldi til Sauðafells.
Þar var (35) vel við þeim tekit, því at þar var allra manna gisting.
Ok þegar um kveldit gengr Ásgautr á fund Þórólfs rauðnefs ok sagði honum alla vǫxtu, sem á váru um þeira ørendi, at Vigdís, frændkona hans, hafði þenna mann sent honum til halds og trausts, er þar var kominn;
sagði honum allt, hvé farit hafði með þeim Þórði godda; þar með berr hann fram jartegnir þær, er Vigdís hafði sent til Þórólfs.
Þórólfr svarar á þá leið: “Ekki mun ek dyljask við jartegnir þessar; mun ek at vísu taka við þessum manni at orðsending hennar; þykki mér Vigdísi þetta mál drengiliga hafa farit;
er þat mikill harmr, er þvílík kona skal hafa svá óskǫruligt gjaforð; skaltu, Ásgautr, dveljask hér þvílíka hríð, sem þér líkar.”
So soon as Thorolf and Asgaut saw that Ingjald and his men were not going to try the crossing, they wrung out their clothing and got ready to go on. They kept going all that day, and came to Saudafell by nightfall.
So soon as Thorolf and Asgaut saw that Ingjald and his men were not going to try the crossing, they wrung out their clothing and got ready to go on. They kept going all that day, and came to Saudafell by nightfall.
There they were made welcome, for there was (39) open house for all corners.
There they were made welcome, for there was (39) open house for all corners.
And that same evening Asgaut went to Thorolf Raudnef and told him all there was to tell about their coming; that his kinswoman Vigdis had sent this man to him for shelter and safe-keeping, who had just come;
And that same evening Asgaut went to Thorolf Raudnef and told him all there was to tell about their coming; that his kinswoman Vigdis had sent this man to him for shelter and safe-keeping, who had just come;
and told him everything about Thord Goddi‘s dealings with them, and brought out the tokens which Vigdis had sent by him to Thorolf.
and told him everything about Thord Goddi‘s dealings with them, and brought out the tokens which Vigdis had sent by him to Thorolf.
Thorolf made answer and said, “I have no doubt of these tokens; and I will surely take this man in, at her request. To my mind all this affair is much to Vigdis’s credit.
Thorolf made answer and said, “I have no doubt of these tokens; and I will surely take this man in, at her request. To my mind all this affair is much to Vigdis’s credit.
It is a great shame that such a woman should be so meanly married. Now as for you, Asgaut, you are welcome to stay just as long as you like.”
It is a great shame that such a woman should be so meanly married. Now as for you, Asgaut, you are welcome to stay just as long as you like.”
Þórðr kvað hana þessu ráða mundu vilja.
Eptir þetta gengr Vigdís inn ok til erkr þeirar, er Þórðr átti, ok finnr þar í niðri digran fésjóð;
hon tekr upp sjóðinn ok gengr út með ok þar til, er Ingjaldr var, ok biðr hann taka við fénu.
Ingjaldr verðr við þetta léttbrúnn ok réttir hǫndina at móti fésjóðnum.
Vigdís hefr upp fésjóðinn ok rekr á nasar honum, svá at þegar fell blóð á jǫrð;
þar með velr hon honum mǫrg hæðilig orð ok þat með, at hann skal þetta fé aldregi fá síðan; biðr hann á brott fara.
Ingjaldr sér sinn kost þann inn bezta, at verða á brottu sem fyrst, ok gerir hann svá ok léttir eigi ferð sinni, fyrr en hann kemr heim, ok unir illa við sína ferð.
Thord replied that she would likely have her way about it.
Thord replied that she would likely have her way about it.
Vigdis thereupon went indoors to a box belonging to Thord, where she found, (40) on the bottom of it, a bulky bag of money.
Vigdis thereupon went indoors to a box belonging to Thord, where she found, (40) on the bottom of it, a bulky bag of money.
She takes the bag and goes out with it to where Ingjald was standing, and tells him to take his money.
She takes the bag and goes out with it to where Ingjald was standing, and tells him to take his money.
Ingjald is much pleased at this, and reaches for the money-bag.
Ingjald is much pleased at this, and reaches for the money-bag.
Vigdis swings the money-bag up and hits him on the nose with it, so that it brought the blood.
Vigdis swings the money-bag up and hits him on the nose with it, so that it brought the blood.
With it all she spent many nasty words on him, and told him in conclusion that he shall never lay hands on this money again, and finished by telling him to be off.
With it all she spent many nasty words on him, and told him in conclusion that he shall never lay hands on this money again, and finished by telling him to be off.
Ingjald found that the best thing for him was to get away right soon. And so he did. And he made no stop on his way until he got home, sadly put out about the whole affair.
Ingjald found that the best thing for him was to get away right soon. And so he did. And he made no stop on his way until he got home, sadly put out about the whole affair.
Eptir þetta deyr Hrappr.
Svá var með ǫllu farit, sem hann hafði fyrir sagt, því at hon treystisk eigi ǫðru.
En svá illr sem hann var viðreignar, þá er hann lifði, þá jók nú miklu við, er hann var dauðr, því at hann gekk mjǫk aptr.
Svá segja menn, at hann deyddi flest hjón sín í aptrgǫngunni; hann gerði mikinn ómaka þeim flestum, er í nánd bjuggu; var eyddr bœrinn á Hrappsstǫðum.
Vigdís, kona Hrapps, rézk vestr til Þorsteins surts, bróður síns; tók hann við henni ok fé hennar.
Nú var enn sem fyrr, at menn fóru á fund Hǫskulds ok sǫgðu honum til þeira vandræða, er Hrappr gerir mǫnnum, ok biðja hann nǫkkut ór ráða;
Hǫskuldr kvað svá (40) vera skyldu, ferr með nǫkkura menn á Hrappsstaði ok lætr grafa upp Hrapp ok fœra hann í brott, þar er sízt væri fjárgangr í nánd eða mannaferðir.
Eptir þetta nemask af heldr aptrgǫngur Hrapps.
Sumarliði, sonr Hrapps, tók fé eptir hann, ok var bæði mikit ok frítt.
Sumarliði gerði bú á Hrappsstǫðum um várit eptir, ok er hann hafði þar litla hríð búit, þá tók hann œrsl ok dó litlu síðar.
Nú á Vigdís, móðir hans, at taka þar ein fé þetta allt; hon vill eigi fara til landsins á Hrappsstǫðum; tekr nú Þorsteinn surtr fé þetta undir sik til varðveizlu.
Þorsteinn var þá hniginn nǫkkut ok þó inn hraustasti ok vel hress.
Hrapp died presently after,
Hrapp died presently after,
and everything was done as he had ordered. But troublesome as he had been while he was alive,
and everything was done as he had ordered. But troublesome as he had been while he was alive,
yet it got to be much worse now that he was dead; for he walked again a good deal.
yet it got to be much worse now that he was dead; for he walked again a good deal.
It is said that he killed nearly all of his household in the course of his walking, and he did much mischief to nearly everyone who lived near the place. The house at Hrappstadir was now deserted.
It is said that he killed nearly all of his household in the course of his walking, and he did much mischief to nearly everyone who lived near the place. The house at Hrappstadir was now deserted.
Vigdis, Hrapp’s wife, went back into the West country, to her brother Thorstein Surt, who gave her a home and took over her property.
Vigdis, Hrapp’s wife, went back into the West country, to her brother Thorstein Surt, who gave her a home and took over her property.
Meantime, very much as before, the folks turned to Höskuld and told him of all this mischief that Hrapp was making them, and begged him to help them out.
Meantime, very much as before, the folks turned to Höskuld and told him of all this mischief that Hrapp was making them, and begged him to help them out.
Höskuld (45) said he would do so. He went over to Hrappstadir with a few men and had them dig up Hrapp and take him away to another place where either cattle or men were least likely to come near.
Höskuld (45) said he would do so. He went over to Hrappstadir with a few men and had them dig up Hrapp and take him away to another place where either cattle or men were least likely to come near.
After this was done Hrapp’s walking abated somewhat.
After this was done Hrapp’s walking abated somewhat.
Hrapp’s son Sumarlidi came into the property which he left, and it was a large and fine property.
Hrapp’s son Sumarlidi came into the property which he left, and it was a large and fine property.
Sumarlidi moved in and set up housekeeping at Hrappstadir the following spring, and when he had been living there a little while he went mad and presently died.
Sumarlidi moved in and set up housekeeping at Hrappstadir the following spring, and when he had been living there a little while he went mad and presently died.
So now Vigdis, his mother, comes into all the property.She is not willing to move in on the Hrappstadir lands. So Thorstein Surt takes over this estate in trust.
So now Vigdis, his mother, comes into all the property.She is not willing to move in on the Hrappstadir lands. So Thorstein Surt takes over this estate in trust.
Thorstein was growing rather old by that time, although he still was quite active and in fair health.
Thorstein was growing rather old by that time, although he still was quite active and in fair health.
Í þann tíma hófusk þeir upp til mannvirðingar í Þórsnesi frændr Þorsteins, Bǫrkr inn digri ok Þorgrímr bróðir hans.
Brátt fannsk þat á, at þeir brœðr vildu þá vera þar mestir menn ok mest metnir;
ok er Þorsteinn finnr þat, þá vill hann eigi við þá bægjask; lýsir því fyrir mǫnnum, at hann ætlar at skipta um bústaði ok ætlaði at fara byggðum á Hrappsstaði í Laxárdal.
Þorsteinn surtr bjó ferð sína af várþingi, en smali var rekinn eptir strǫndinni.
Þorsteinn skipaði ferju ok gekk þar á með tólfta mann; var þar Þórarinn á, mágr hans, ok Ósk Þorsteinsdóttir ok Hildr, dóttir Þórarins, er enn fór með þeim, ok var hon þrévetr.
Þorsteinn tók útsynning hvassan; sigla þeir inn at straumum í þann straum, er hét Kolkistustraumr; sá er í mesta lagi þeira strauma, er á Breiðafirði eru.
Þeim teksk (41) siglingin ógreitt; heldr þat mest til þess, at þá var komit útfall sjávar, en byrrinn ekki vinveittr, því at skúraveðr var á, ok var hvasst veðrit, þá er rauf, en vindlítit þess í milli.
Þórarinn stýrði ok hafði aktaumana um herðar sér, því at þrǫngt var á skipinu;
var hirzlum mest hlaðit, ok varð hár farmrinn, en lǫndin váru nær; gekk skipit lítit, því at straumrinn gerðisk óðr at móti.
Síðan sigla þeir á sker upp ok brutu ekki at.
Þorsteinn bað fella seglit sem skjótast; bað menn taka forka ok ráða af skipinu.
Þessa ráðs var freistat ok dugði eigi, því at svá var djúpt á bæði borð, at forkarnir kenndu eigi niðr, ok varð þar at bíða atfalls; fjarar nú undan skipinu.
Þeir sá sel í strauminum um daginn, meira miklu en aðra; hann fór í hring um skipit um daginn ok var ekki fitjaskammr; svá sýndisk þeim ǫllum, sem mannsaugu væri í honum.
Þorsteinn bað þá skjóta selinn; þeir leita við, ok kom fyrir ekki.
Síðan fell sjór at. Ok er nær hafði, at skipit myndi fljóta, þá rekr á hvassviðri mikit, ok hvelfir skipinu, ok drukkna nú menn allir, þeir er þar váru á skipinu, nema einn maðr; hann rak á land með viðum; sá hét Guðmundr; þar heita síðan Guðmundareyjar.
Guðríðr átti at taka arf eptir Þorstein surt, fǫður sinn, er (42) átti Þorkell trefill.
Þessi tíðendi spyrjask víða, drukknun Þorsteins surts ok þeira manna, er þar hǫfðu látizk.
Þorkell sendir þegar orð þessum manni, Guðmundi, er þar hafði á land komit; ok er hann kemr á fund Þorkels, þá slær Þorkell við hann kaupi á laun, at hann skyldi svá greina frásǫgn um líflát manna, sem hann segði fyrir; því játti Guðmundr.
Heimtir nú Þorkell af honum frásǫgn um atburð þenna, svá at margir menn váru hjá.
Þá segir Guðmundr svá, kvað Þorstein hafa fyrst drukknat, þá Þórarin, mág hans;
þá átti Hildr at taka fét, því at hon var dóttir Þórarins;
þá kvað hann meyna drukkna, því at þar næst var Ósk hennar arfi, móðir hennar, ok lézk hon þeira síðast;
bar þá fét allt undir Þorkel trefil, því at Guðríðr, kona hans, átti fé at taka eptir systur sína.
Nú reiðisk þessi frásǫgn af Þorkatli ok hans mǫnnum, en Guðmundr hafði áðr nǫkkut ǫðruvísa sagt.
Nú þótti þeim frændum Þórarins nǫkkut ifanlig sjá saga, ok kǫlluðusk eigi mundu trúnað á leggja raunarlaust, ok tǫlðu þeir sér fé hálft við Þorkel, en Þorkell þykkisk einn allt eiga ok bað gera til skírslu at sið þeira.
Þat var þá skírsla í þat mund, at ganga skyldi undir jarðarmen, þat er torfa var ristin ór velli; skyldu endarnir torfunnar vera fastir í vellinum, en sá maðr, er skírsluna skyldi fram flytja, skyldi þar ganga undir.
Þorkell trefill grunar nǫkkut, hvárt þannig mun farit hafa um líflát manna, sem þeir Guðmundr hǫfðu sagt it síðara sinni.
Ekki þóttusk heiðnir menn minna eiga í ábyrgð, þá er slíka (43) hluti skyldi fremja, en nú þykkjask eiga kristnir menn, þá er skírslur eru gǫrvar.
Þá varð sá skírr, er undir jarðarmen gekk, ef torfan fell eigi á hann.
Þorkell gerði ráð við tvá menn, at þeir skyldi sik láta á skilja um einnhvern hlut ok vera þar nær staddir, þá er skírslan væri frǫmð, ok koma við torfuna svá mjǫk, at allir sæi, at þeir felldi hana.
Eptir þetta ræðr sá til, er skírsluna skyldi af hǫndum inna, ok jafnskjótt sem hann var kominn undir jarðarmenit, hlaupask þessir menn at mót með vápnum, sem til þess váru settir, mœtask þeir hjá torfubugnum ok liggja þar fallnir, ok fellr ofan jarðarmenit, sem ván var.
Síðan hlaupa menn í millum þeira ok skilja þá; var þat auðvelt, því at þeir bǫrðusk með engum háska.
Þorkell trefill leitaði orðróms um skírsluna; mæltu nú allir hans menn, at vel myndi hlýtt hafa, ef engir hefði spillt.
Síðan tók Þorkell lausafé allt, en lǫndin leggjask upp á Hrappsstǫðum.
It was about this time that Thorstein’s kinsmen, Big Bork and his brother Thorgrim, were beginning to count for something among the people about the Thorsnes countryside.
It was about this time that Thorstein’s kinsmen, Big Bork and his brother Thorgrim, were beginning to count for something among the people about the Thorsnes countryside.
And it became plain very shortly that the two brothers were setting themselves up to be the leading men thereabout, both in fact and in reputation.
And it became plain very shortly that the two brothers were setting themselves up to be the leading men thereabout, both in fact and in reputation.
And now when Thorstein came to see how things were going, he was not willing to put up with it, and so he let it be known that he had made up his mind to shift over to Hrappstadir in the Laxárdal.
And now when Thorstein came to see how things were going, he was not willing to put up with it, and so he let it be known that he had made up his mind to shift over to Hrappstadir in the Laxárdal.
Thorstein Surt himself set out right after the spring assizes19
while the live-stock was driven up along the beach.
Thorstein Surt himself set out right after the spring assizes19
while the live-stock was driven up along the beach.
He fitted out a lugger and loaded it and went aboard with a company of twelve persons altogether. Among them was his son-in-law Thorarin; and there were also Thorstein’s daughter Osk, and Helgi’s daughter Hild, who also went with them; she was then three years of age.
He fitted out a lugger and loaded it and went aboard with a company of twelve persons altogether. Among them was his son-in-law Thorarin; and there were also Thorstein’s daughter Osk, and Helgi’s daughter Hild, who also went with them; she was then three years of age.
Thorstein set sail before a stiff southwester. They sailed up toward the narrows, where the tide runs strong, and were carried into the channel known as the Kolkistu-Straum. This has one of the strongest currents there are in the Breidafjord waters.
Thorstein set sail before a stiff southwester. They sailed up toward the narrows, where the tide runs strong, and were carried into the channel known as the Kolkistu-Straum. This has one of the strongest currents there are in the Breidafjord waters.
They presently lost control of the vessel. What had most to do with it was that the tide was running out, while the wind was shifty; the weather was showery, with stiff squalls when the showers broke and next to no (47) breeze in between.
They presently lost control of the vessel. What had most to do with it was that the tide was running out, while the wind was shifty; the weather was showery, with stiff squalls when the showers broke and next to no (47) breeze in between.
Thorarin was steering and had wound the steering lines about his shoulders, because the boat was crowded and there was little room.
Thorarin was steering and had wound the steering lines about his shoulders, because the boat was crowded and there was little room.
The boat was loaded with household goods for the most part, and the cargo was piled up high. Land was near on either side. The boat made little headway, because the current was setting violently against them.
The boat was loaded with household goods for the most part, and the cargo was piled up high. Land was near on either side. The boat made little headway, because the current was setting violently against them.
Presently they ran on the shallows, without wrecking the vessel.
Presently they ran on the shallows, without wrecking the vessel.
Thorstein gave orders to take in the sail in a hurry and told the men to push the boat off with poles.
Thorstein gave orders to take in the sail in a hurry and told the men to push the boat off with poles.
That shift was tried, but it came to nothing, for the water was so deep on both boards that their poles would not touch bottom. So all they could do was to wait for the incoming tide. The water ebbed out from under the boat.
That shift was tried, but it came to nothing, for the water was so deep on both boards that their poles would not touch bottom. So all they could do was to wait for the incoming tide. The water ebbed out from under the boat.
During the day while they waited there they saw a seal swimming about in the channel, much larger than common. He circled about the boat during the day, swimming with long strokes. To all of them it seemed as if his eyes were human.
During the day while they waited there they saw a seal swimming about in the channel, much larger than common. He circled about the boat during the day, swimming with long strokes. To all of them it seemed as if his eyes were human.
Thorstein told them to shoot the seal. They tried, but it came to nothing.
Thorstein told them to shoot the seal. They tried, but it came to nothing.
Then presently the tide came in, and just as it was a near thing that the boat would come afloat, then a stiff squall struck them and capsized the boat. And they were all drowned that were on board, except one man who was washed ashore with the timbers. This man was named Gudmund. The place has since been known as the Gudmund Islands.
Then presently the tide came in, and just as it was a near thing that the boat would come afloat, then a stiff squall struck them and capsized the boat. And they were all drowned that were on board, except one man who was washed ashore with the timbers. This man was named Gudmund. The place has since been known as the Gudmund Islands.
Gudrid, wife of Thorkel Trefil, was the lawful heir of her father Thorstein Surt.
Gudrid, wife of Thorkel Trefil, was the lawful heir of her father Thorstein Surt.
Now these tidings were told far and near, of the drowning of Thorstein Surt and those who had lost their lives with him.
Now these tidings were told far and near, of the drowning of Thorstein Surt and those who had lost their lives with him.
Thorkel straightway sent for this man Gudmund, who had come ashore; and when he had come to meet him Thorkel comes to an understanding with him privately, that he is to tell the story of this incident, so far as concerned the decease of these persons, in the way Thorkel told him to. To this Gudmund agreed.
Thorkel straightway sent for this man Gudmund, who had come ashore; and when he had come to meet him Thorkel comes to an understanding with him privately, that he is to tell the story of this incident, so far as concerned the decease of these persons, in the way Thorkel told him to. To this Gudmund agreed.
Thorkel then calls on him to give an account (48) of the matter in the hearing of many others.
Thorkel then calls on him to give an account (48) of the matter in the hearing of many others.
Gudmund then told his story as follows: He recited that Thorstein had drowned first, then his son-in-law Thorarin.
Gudmund then told his story as follows: He recited that Thorstein had drowned first, then his son-in-law Thorarin.
Hild would then inherit the property, as she was Thorarin’s daughter.
Hild would then inherit the property, as she was Thorarin’s daughter.
Next, he said, the girl was drowned; as Osk would then inherit from her; and Osk was the last of them to die.
Next, he said, the girl was drowned; as Osk would then inherit from her; and Osk was the last of them to die.
In this way all of the property would come into Thorkel Trefil’s hands, because his wife Gudrid was the lawful heir of her sister Osk.
In this way all of the property would come into Thorkel Trefil’s hands, because his wife Gudrid was the lawful heir of her sister Osk.
So now this account of these matters was put forward by Thorkel and his friends; but Gudmund had given out a slightly different account earlier.
So now this account of these matters was put forward by Thorkel and his friends; but Gudmund had given out a slightly different account earlier.
To Thorarin’s relations this tale seemed a little dubious; they protested that they would put no faith in it without proof. They laid claim to onehalf the property, along with Thorkel, but Thorkel claimed to be sole heir and called for proof to be made by ordeal in the manner of that time.
To Thorarin’s relations this tale seemed a little dubious; they protested that they would put no faith in it without proof. They laid claim to onehalf the property, along with Thorkel, but Thorkel claimed to be sole heir and called for proof to be made by ordeal in the manner of that time.
The ordeal in proof of good faith was in those times what is called “Going under the Sod.”20
In this act a strip of sod was cut loose from the sward; the ends of the strip being fast to the ground; and the person who was to take the ordeal must then pass through under this strip.
The ordeal in proof of good faith was in those times what is called “Going under the Sod.”20
In this act a strip of sod was cut loose from the sward; the ends of the strip being fast to the ground; and the person who was to take the ordeal must then pass through under this strip.
Thorkel Trefil had his doubts as to whether everything about the decease of these persons had come to pass just as Gudmund and he had made out on the last occasion.
Thorkel Trefil had his doubts as to whether everything about the decease of these persons had come to pass just as Gudmund and he had made out on the last occasion.
The Heathen who had to undergo such an ordeal were no less concerned about it in their time than Christian folk now are when put to the proof by oath or ordeal.
The Heathen who had to undergo such an ordeal were no less concerned about it in their time than Christian folk now are when put to the proof by oath or ordeal.
In that time the man who “went under the sod” was held blameless if the strip of sod did not fall on him.
In that time the man who “went under the sod” was held blameless if the strip of sod did not fall on him.
So now Thorkel arranged with two men, who were to get into a quarrel about one thing or another and get close to the place just as the ordeal was going forward, and to stumble against the loop of sod by so much that all men could see they had upset it.
So now Thorkel arranged with two men, who were to get into a quarrel about one thing or another and get close to the place just as the ordeal was going forward, and to stumble against the loop of sod by so much that all men could see they had upset it.
Presently the person who (49) was to carry out the ordeal21
proceeded to the act, and just as he was passing under the loop of sod these two men who had been put up to it rushed upon one another with drawn weapons, met right next the sod and tumbled over each other; and the loop of sod came down, as might be expected.
Presently the person who (49) was to carry out the ordeal21
proceeded to the act, and just as he was passing under the loop of sod these two men who had been put up to it rushed upon one another with drawn weapons, met right next the sod and tumbled over each other; and the loop of sod came down, as might be expected.
Others then ran in between and parted them, which was easily done, seeing that they were fighting without malice.
Others then ran in between and parted them, which was easily done, seeing that they were fighting without malice.
Thorkel called for a hearing on the ordeal. And now all his men spoke up, that all would have gone well if no one had spoiled it.
Thorkel called for a hearing on the ordeal. And now all his men spoke up, that all would have gone well if no one had spoiled it.
Thereupon Thorkel took over all the personal property, but the lands of Hrappstadir were laid by.
Thereupon Thorkel took over all the personal property, but the lands of Hrappstadir were laid by.
Nú er frá Hǫskuldi at segja, at ráð hans er virðuligt; var hann hǫfðingi mikill.
Hann varðveitti mikit fé, er átti Hrútr Herjólfsson, bróðir hans.
Margir menn mæltu þat, at nǫkkut myndi ganga skorbíldar í fé Hǫskulds, ef hann skyldi vandliga út gjalda móðurarf hans.
Hrútr er hirðmaðr Haralds konungs Gunnhildarsonar ok hafði af honum mikla virðing;
helt þat mest til þess, at hann gafsk bezt í ǫllum mannraunum.
En Gunnhildr dróttning lagði svá miklar mætur á hann, at hon helt engi hans jafningja innan hirðar, hvárki í orðum né ǫðrum hlutum;
en þó at inannjafnaðr væri hafðr ok til ágætis manna talat, þá var þat ǫllum mǫnnum auðsætt, at Gunnhildi þótti hyggjuleysi til ganga eða ǫfund, ef nǫkkurum manni var til Hrúts jafnat.
Með því at Hrútr átti at vitja til Íslands fjárhlutar mikils ok gǫfugra frænda, þá fýsisk hann at vitja þess; býr nú ferð sina til Íslands.
Konungr gaf honum skip at skilnaði ok kallaðisk hann reynt hafa at góðum dreng.
Gunnhildr leiddi Hrút til skips ok mælti: “Ekki skal þetta lágt mæla, at ek hefi þik reyndan at miklum ágætismanni, því at þú hefir atgørvi jafnfram inum beztum mǫnnum hér í landi, en þú hefir vitsmuni langt um fram.”
Síðan gaf hon honum gullhring ok bað hann vel fara; brá síðan skikkjunni at hǫfði sér ok gekk snúðigt heim til bœjar; en Hrútr stígr á skip ok siglir í haf.
Now, of Höskuld it is to be said that he was doing very well. He was a great chieftain.
Now, of Höskuld it is to be said that he was doing very well. He was a great chieftain.
Also he had in his keeping a deal of property belonging to his brother Hrut Herjolfson.
Also he had in his keeping a deal of property belonging to his brother Hrut Herjolfson.
There were many who had remarked that it would cut into his wealth quite seriously if he were to pay over fully the whole of Hrut‘s inheritance from his mother.
There were many who had remarked that it would cut into his wealth quite seriously if he were to pay over fully the whole of Hrut‘s inheritance from his mother.
Hrut was then attached to the court of King Harald Gunnhildarson, and ranked high with him.
Hrut was then attached to the court of King Harald Gunnhildarson, and ranked high with him.
What counted for most in that way was that Hrut was ever the best man in all manner of exploits.
What counted for most in that way was that Hrut was ever the best man in all manner of exploits.
And then Gunnhild, the queen-dowager, too held him in such high esteem that she counted no man at court his equal in any respect, in what he had to say or in any other way.
And then Gunnhild, the queen-dowager, too held him in such high esteem that she counted no man at court his equal in any respect, in what he had to say or in any other way.
And if the talk ran on the merits of this man and that, and one were compared with another, it was plain to be seen that to Gunnhild’s mind it could only come of stupidity or envy if any man were compared with Hrut.
And if the talk ran on the merits of this man and that, and one were compared with another, it was plain to be seen that to Gunnhild’s mind it could only come of stupidity or envy if any man were compared with Hrut.
Inasmuch as Hrut had large property interests to look after in Iceland, as well as a noble kindred, he came to have a great desire to visit that country. So he made ready to go to Iceland.
Inasmuch as Hrut had large property interests to look after in Iceland, as well as a noble kindred, he came to have a great desire to visit that country. So he made ready to go to Iceland.
The king made him a present of a ship at parting, and said that he had tested him and found him a gallant gentleman.
The king made him a present of a ship at parting, and said that he had tested him and found him a gallant gentleman.
Gunnhild saw Hrut off to his ship and told him: “This need not be said in a whisper; that I have found you to be a noble gentleman; for in all manly deeds you are the equal of the best in the land, and for (51) wise counsel you have the better of them all.” She gave him a gold ring at parting and bade him farewell.
Gunnhild saw Hrut off to his ship and told him: “This need not be said in a whisper; that I have found you to be a noble gentleman; for in all manly deeds you are the equal of the best in the land, and for (51) wise counsel you have the better of them all.” She gave him a gold ring at parting and bade him farewell.
Then she drew her cloak over her head and went swiftly back home to town; while Hrut went aboard and sailed out to sea.
Then she drew her cloak over her head and went swiftly back home to town; while Hrut went aboard and sailed out to sea.
Honum byrjaði (45) vel, ok tók Breiðafjǫrð.
Hann siglir inn at eyjum; síðan siglir hann inn Breiðasund ok lendir við Kambsnes ok bar bryggjur á land.
Skipkváman spurðisk ok svá þat, at Hrútr Herjólfsson var stýrimaðr.
Ekki fagnar Hǫskuldr þessum tíðendum ok eigi fór hann á fund hans.
Hrútr setr upp skip sitt ok býr um; þar gerði hann bœ, er síðan heitir á Kambsnesi.
Síðan reið Hrútr á fund Hǫskulds ok heimtir móðurarf sinn.
Hǫskuldr kvazk ekki fé eiga at gjalda, kvað eigi móður sína hafa farit félausa af Íslandi, þá er hon kom til móts við Herjólf.
Hrúti líkar illa ok reið í brott við svá búit.
Allir frændr Hrúts gera sœmiliga til hans, aðrir en Hǫskuldr.
Hrútr bjó þrjá vetr á Kambsnesi ok heimtir jafnan fé at Hǫskuldi á þingum eða ǫðrum lǫgfundum ok var vel talaðr;
kǫlluðu þat flestir, at Hrútr hefði rétt at mæla, en Hǫskuldr flutti þat, at Þorgerðr var eigi at hans ráði gipt Herjólfi, en lézk vera lǫgráðandi móður sinnar, ok skilja við þat.
Þat sama haust eptir fór Hǫskuldr at heimboði til Þórðar godda.
Þetta spyrr Hrútr ok reið hann á Hǫskuldsstaði við tólfta mann.
Hann rak á brott naut tuttugu; jafnmǫrg lét hann eptir; síðan sendi hann mann til Hǫskulds ok bað segja, hvert eptir fé var at leita.
Húskarlar Hǫskulds hljópu þegar til vápna, ok váru gǫr orð þeim, er næstir váru, ok urðu þeir fimmtán saman; reið hverr þeira svá sem mátti hvatast.
Þeir Hrútr sá eigi fyrr eptirreiðina en þeir áttu skammt til garðs á Kambsnesi.
Stíga þeir Hrútr þegar af baki ok binda hesta sína ok ganga fram á mel nǫkkurn, ok sagði Hrútr, at þeir myndi þar við taka; kvazk (46) þat hyggja, þótt seint gengi fjárheimtan við Hǫskuld, at eigi skyldi þat spyrjask, at hann rynni fyrir þrælum hans.
Fǫrunautar Hrúts sǫgðu, at liðsmunr myndi vera.
Hrútr kvazk þat ekki hirða; kvað þá því verrum fǫrum fara skyldu, sem þeir væri fleiri.
Þeir Laxdœlir hljópu nú af hestum sínum ok bjuggusk nú við.
Hrútr bað þá ekki meta muninn ok hleypr í móti þeim.
Hann hafði hjálm á hǫfði, en sverð brugðit í hendi, en skjǫld í annarri; hann var vígr allra manna bezt.
Svá var Hrútr þá óðr, at fáir gátu fylgt honum.
Bǫrðusk vel hvárirtveggju um hríð, en brátt fundu þeir Laxdœlir þat, at þeir áttu þar eigi við sinn maka, sem Hrútr var, því at þá drap hann tvá menn í einu athlaupi.
Síðan báðu Laxdœlir sér griða; Hrútr kvað þá víst hafa skyldu grið.
Húskarlar Hǫskulds váru þá allir sárir, þeir er uppi stóðu, en fjórir váru drepnir.
Hrútr fór heim ok var nǫkkut sárr, en fǫrurtautar hans lítt eða ekki, því at hann hafði sik mest frammi haft.
Er þat kallaðr Orrostudalr, síðan þeir bǫrðusk þar.
Síðan lét Hrútr af hǫggva fét.
He had a good passage and made the land in the Breidafjord.
He had a good passage and made the land in the Breidafjord.
He sailed up the fjord to the islands. Presently after he sailed inward by the Breidasund, landed at Kambsnes and ran his gangways ashore.
He sailed up the fjord to the islands. Presently after he sailed inward by the Breidasund, landed at Kambsnes and ran his gangways ashore.
The coming of the ship was told about, as also that Hrut Herjolfson was the master of it.
The coming of the ship was told about, as also that Hrut Herjolfson was the master of it.
Höskuld took no notice of these tidings, nor did he go to meet him.
Höskuld took no notice of these tidings, nor did he go to meet him.
Hrut drew his ship on land and laid it up. He set up a household at the place which has since been known as the Kambsnes farm.
Hrut drew his ship on land and laid it up. He set up a household at the place which has since been known as the Kambsnes farm.
After that Hrut rode over to see his brother Höskuld and brought up his claim to his mother’s inheritance.
After that Hrut rode over to see his brother Höskuld and brought up his claim to his mother’s inheritance.
Höskuld said he had nothing to pay, said his mother had not gone out of Iceland empty-handed at the time she went out and met Herjolf.
Höskuld said he had nothing to pay, said his mother had not gone out of Iceland empty-handed at the time she went out and met Herjolf.
Hrut took it ill, but rode away with no more ado.
Hrut took it ill, but rode away with no more ado.
All of Hrut’s kinsfolk made much of him, save only Höskuld.
All of Hrut’s kinsfolk made much of him, save only Höskuld.
Hrut lived at Kambsnes three years, and he was forever calling on Höskuld for payment, at the Things and at any other lawful gathering, and was ever fair-spoken in pushing his claim.
Hrut lived at Kambsnes three years, and he was forever calling on Höskuld for payment, at the Things and at any other lawful gathering, and was ever fair-spoken in pushing his claim.
Most men were of opinion that Hrut was in the right, but Höskuld protested that Thorgerd had married Herjolf without his consent; and that he was at that time his mother’s guardian at law; and there the matter stood.
Most men were of opinion that Hrut was in the right, but Höskuld protested that Thorgerd had married Herjolf without his consent; and that he was at that time his mother’s guardian at law; and there the matter stood.
The fall next following Höskuld went on a visit to Thord Goddi.
The fall next following Höskuld went on a visit to Thord Goddi.
Hrut heard of his going and rode over to Höskuldstadir with a company of twelve men.
Hrut heard of his going and rode over to Höskuldstadir with a company of twelve men.
He gathered up and drove off twenty head of cattle. The same number he left behind. Then he sent a man to Höskuld to tell where the cattle were to be looked for.
He gathered up and drove off twenty head of cattle. The same number he left behind. Then he sent a man to Höskuld to tell where the cattle were to be looked for.
Höskuld’s farm-hands got out their weapons right away, and word was also passed to the nearer (52) neighbors, so that there were fifteen of them altogether. They all rode as fast as they could, every one of them.
Höskuld’s farm-hands got out their weapons right away, and word was also passed to the nearer (52) neighbors, so that there were fifteen of them altogether. They all rode as fast as they could, every one of them.
Hrut and his men saw nothing of the pursuit until they were nearly back home at Kambsnes.
Hrut and his men saw nothing of the pursuit until they were nearly back home at Kambsnes.
Hrut and his men straightway dismounted and tied their horses, and ran out on a low sandhill. Hrut told them to make a stand and wait for them there, and remarked that even if it was slow work getting his due from Höskuld, still he had no mind to let it be told about the neighborhood that he had run away from Höskuld’s slaves.
Hrut and his men straightway dismounted and tied their horses, and ran out on a low sandhill. Hrut told them to make a stand and wait for them there, and remarked that even if it was slow work getting his due from Höskuld, still he had no mind to let it be told about the neighborhood that he had run away from Höskuld’s slaves.
The men with Hrut told him the odds were against them.
The men with Hrut told him the odds were against them.
Hrut said he did not mind that; said they would fare all the worse the more there were of them.
Hrut said he did not mind that; said they would fare all the worse the more there were of them.
The Laxdalers jumped off their horses and made ready.
The Laxdalers jumped off their horses and made ready.
Hrut told them never to mind the odds, and drove at them.
Hrut told them never to mind the odds, and drove at them.
He was wearing a helmet, had a drawn sword in one hand and a shield in the other. He was a master of fence,
He was wearing a helmet, had a drawn sword in one hand and a shield in the other. He was a master of fence,
and Hrut was then so beside himself that few were able to keep up with him.
and Hrut was then so beside himself that few were able to keep up with him.
Both sides fought well for a while, but very shortly the Laxdalers found they had to do with more than their match in dealing with Hrut, for he killed two of them at one onset.
Both sides fought well for a while, but very shortly the Laxdalers found they had to do with more than their match in dealing with Hrut, for he killed two of them at one onset.
After that the Laxdalers begged for quarter. Hrut said they were to be given quarter of course.
After that the Laxdalers begged for quarter. Hrut said they were to be given quarter of course.
By that time all of Höskuld’s farmbands were wounded, such of them as were still on their feet, and four of them were killed.
By that time all of Höskuld’s farmbands were wounded, such of them as were still on their feet, and four of them were killed.
Hrut went on home, and he was wounded more or less himself, but his men little or none, he had himself gone into the thick of it.
Hrut went on home, and he was wounded more or less himself, but his men little or none, he had himself gone into the thick of it.
The place has been known as the Orrustudal22
since the time they fought there.
The place has been known as the Orrustudal22
since the time they fought there.
Hrut then had the cattle slaughtered.
Hrut then had the cattle slaughtered.
Jórunn svarar: Þessi ætlun er ferlig, ef þú ætlar at drepa slíkan mann, sem bróðir þinn er;
en sumir menn kalla, at eigi sé sakleysi í, þótt Hrútr hefði fyrr þetta fé heimt;
hefir hann þat nú sýnt, at hann vill eigi vera hornungr lengr þess, er hann átti, eptir því sem hann átti kyn til.
Nú mun hann hafa eigi fyrr þetta ráð upp tekit, at etja kappi við þik, en hann mun vita sér nǫkkurs trausts ván af inum meirum mǫnnum, því at mér er sagt, at farit muni hafa orðsendingar í hljóði milli þeira Þórðar gellis ok Hrúts;
myndi mér slíkir hlutir þykkja ísjáverðir; mun Þórði þykkja gott at veita at slíkum hlutum, er svá brýn eru málaefni;
veiztu ok þat, Hǫskuldr, síðan er mál þeira Þórðar godda ok Vigdísar urðu, at ekki verðr slík blíða á með ykkr Þórði gelli sem áðr,
þóttú kœmir í fyrstu af þér með fégjǫfum fjándskap þeira frænda;
hygg ek ok þat, Hǫskuldr,” segir hon, ”at þeim þykkir þú þar raunmjǫk sitja yfir sínum hlut ok sonr þinn, Ólafr.
Nú þœtti oss hitt ráðligra, at þú byðir Hrúti, bróður þínum, sœmiliga, því at þar er (48) fangs ván af frekum úlfi;
vænti ek þess, at Hrútr taki því vel ok líkliga, því at mér er maðr sagðr vitr; mun hann þat sjá kunna, at þetta er hvárstveggja ykkar sómi.”
Jorunn told him: “It is a pretty ugly meaning if it is that you mean to kill such a man as your brother is.
Jorunn told him: “It is a pretty ugly meaning if it is that you mean to kill such a man as your brother is.
And there are those who say he would not have been in the wrong even if Hrut had claimed this payment before this.
And there are those who say he would not have been in the wrong even if Hrut had claimed this payment before this.
He has now shown that he is not content to be barred out of his own any longer; which is also what a man of his birth ought to do.
He has now shown that he is not content to be barred out of his own any longer; which is also what a man of his birth ought to do.
Now it is not likely that he has made up his mind to try conclusions with you in this fashion until he knew that he could count on something in the way of backing from some of the bigger men; and indeed I have been told that there have been mes· sages passing back and forth in all privacy between Thord Gellir and Hrut.
Now it is not likely that he has made up his mind to try conclusions with you in this fashion until he knew that he could count on something in the way of backing from some of the bigger men; and indeed I have been told that there have been mes· sages passing back and forth in all privacy between Thord Gellir and Hrut.
Such a thing seems to me to be worth looking into. Thord would doubtless be quite pleased to lend a hand in such a case, which is quite clearly within the law.
Such a thing seems to me to be worth looking into. Thord would doubtless be quite pleased to lend a hand in such a case, which is quite clearly within the law.
You also know quite well, Höskuld, that ever since the trouble came up between Vigdis and Thord Goddi there has not been the same close friendship between Thord Gellir and yourself as before;
You also know quite well, Höskuld, that ever since the trouble came up between Vigdis and Thord Goddi there has not been the same close friendship between Thord Gellir and yourself as before;
even if you did stave off the open enmity of Thord and his friends at the outset with valuable presents.
even if you did stave off the open enmity of Thord and his friends at the outset with valuable presents.
And I have also no doubt, Höskuld,” she went on to say, “that they are feeling quite sore about the way in which you are keeping them out of what they think is their own by rights, you and your son Olaf.
And I have also no doubt, Höskuld,” she went on to say, “that they are feeling quite sore about the way in which you are keeping them out of what they think is their own by rights, you and your son Olaf.
Now, to me it would seem the more prudent thing for you to make your brother Hrut a reasonable offer, for in this case it will hold true that ‘a fierce wolf can easily be caught.’
Now, to me it would seem the more prudent thing for you to make your brother Hrut a reasonable offer, for in this case it will hold true that ‘a fierce wolf can easily be caught.’
I believe Hrut will take it in good part and in a friendly spirit; for I am told that the man is a wise one. He will have the sense to see (54) that both of you stand to gain by it.”
I believe Hrut will take it in good part and in a friendly spirit; for I am told that the man is a wise one. He will have the sense to see (54) that both of you stand to gain by it.”
Hǫskuldr sefaðisk mjǫk við fortǫlur Jórunnar; þykkir honum þetta vera sannligt.
Fara nú menn í milli þeira, er váru beggja vinir, ok bera sættarorð af Hǫskulds hendi til Hrúts, en Hrútr tók því vel; kvazk at vísu vilja semja við Hǫskuld;
kvazk þess lǫngu hafa verit búinn, at þeir semði sína frændsemi eptir því sem vera ætti, ef Hǫskuldr vildi honum rétts unna.
Hrútr kvazk ok Hǫskuldi vilja unna sóma fyrir afbrigð þau, er hann hafði gǫrt af sinni hendi.
Eru nú þessi mál sett ok samið í milli þeira brœðra, Hǫskulds ok Hrúts; taka þeir nú upp frændsemi sína góða beðan í frá.
Hrútr gætir nú bús síns ok gerisk mikill maðr fyrir sér; ekki var hann afskiptinn um flesta hluti, en vildi ráða því, er hann hlutaðisk til.
Hrútr þokaði nú bústað sínum ok bjó þar, sem nú heitir á Hrútsstǫðum, allt til elli.
Hof átti hann í túni, ok sér þess enn merki; þat er nú kallat Trollaskeið; þar er nú þjóðgata.
Hrútr kvángaðisk ok fekk konu þeirar, er Unnr hét, dóttir Marðar gígju; Unnr gekk frá honum; þar af hefjask deilur þeira Laxdœla ok Fljótshlíðinga.
Aðra konu átti Hrútr, þá er Þorbjǫrg hét; hon var Ármóðsdóttir.
Átt hefir Hrútr ina þriðju konu, ok nefnu vér hana eigi.
Sextán sonu átti Hrútr ok tíu dœtr við þessum tveim konum.
Svá segja menn, at Hrútr væri (49) svá á þingi eitt sumar, at fjórtán synir hans væri með honum; því er þessa getit, at þat þótti vera rausn mikil ok afli; allir váru gørviligir synir hans.
Höskuld quieted down a good deal at this talking-to from Jorunn. All this struck him as being reasonable.
Höskuld quieted down a good deal at this talking-to from Jorunn. All this struck him as being reasonable.
Mutual friends of the two acted as go-betweens and carried offers of settlement on Höskuld’s part to Hrut. Hrut took it in good part; replied that he was quite content to come to terms with Höskuld;
Mutual friends of the two acted as go-betweens and carried offers of settlement on Höskuld’s part to Hrut. Hrut took it in good part; replied that he was quite content to come to terms with Höskuld;
said he had stood ready for a long time past to come to such an amicable settlement as was due between kinsfolk, if only Höskuld would deal fairly with him.
said he had stood ready for a long time past to come to such an amicable settlement as was due between kinsfolk, if only Höskuld would deal fairly with him.
Hrut also said he was willing to make up to Höskuld for any trespass which he had been guilty of on his part.
Hrut also said he was willing to make up to Höskuld for any trespass which he had been guilty of on his part.
So now all these matters of dispute are settled and disposed of between the two brothers, Höskuld and Hrut. And from this time forth they lived together as good kinsfolk should.
So now all these matters of dispute are settled and disposed of between the two brothers, Höskuld and Hrut. And from this time forth they lived together as good kinsfolk should.
Hrut minds his own affairs, and grows to be a man of wealth and consequence. He was not given to meddling, commonly, but was inclined to be overbearing in any case where he took part.
Hrut minds his own affairs, and grows to be a man of wealth and consequence. He was not given to meddling, commonly, but was inclined to be overbearing in any case where he took part.
Presently after this Hrut moved out and settled in another homestead. He lived at the place which is now called Hrutstadir ever after.
Presently after this Hrut moved out and settled in another homestead. He lived at the place which is now called Hrutstadir ever after.
He had a hof23
in the (55) farmyard. Traces of it are still to be seen. The spot is now known as the Troll run.24
The highway now runs across the place.
He had a hof23
in the (55) farmyard. Traces of it are still to be seen. The spot is now known as the Troll run.24
The highway now runs across the place.
Hrut married, and took to wife a woman by the name of Unn, daughter of Mord Gigja. This Unn left him. Out of this arose the troubles there were between the Laxdalers and Fljotshlid folks.
Hrut married, and took to wife a woman by the name of Unn, daughter of Mord Gigja. This Unn left him. Out of this arose the troubles there were between the Laxdalers and Fljotshlid folks.
Hrut married a second wife, by the name of Thorbjörg. She was a daughter of Armod.
Hrut married a second wife, by the name of Thorbjörg. She was a daughter of Armod.
Hrut married yet a third wife, whose name is not given.
Hrut married yet a third wife, whose name is not given.
Hrut had sixteen sons and ten daughters by these two wives.
Hrut had sixteen sons and ten daughters by these two wives.
The story goes that he came riding to the Thing one summer and fourteen of his sons with him. It is remembered and spoken of because it was considered a mark of force and manhood; for all of his sons were sturdy fellows.
The story goes that he came riding to the Thing one summer and fourteen of his sons with him. It is remembered and spoken of because it was considered a mark of force and manhood; for all of his sons were sturdy fellows.
Hǫskuldr sitr nú í búi sínu ok gerisk hniginn á inn efra aldr, en synir hans eru nú þroskaðir.
Þorleikr gerir bú á þeim bœ, er heitir á Kambsnesi, ok leysir Hǫskuldr út fé hans.
Eptir þetta kvángask hann ok fekk konu þeirar, er Gjaflaug hét, dóttir Arnbjarnar Sleitu-Bjarnarsonar ok Þorlaugar Þórðardóttur frá Hǫfða; þat var gǫfugt kvánfang; var Gjaflaug væn kona ok ofláti mikill.
Þorleikr var engi dældarmaðr ok inn mesti garpr.
Ekki lagðisk mjǫk á með þeim frændum, Hrúti ok Þorleiki.
Bárðr, sonr Hǫskulds, var heima með feðr sínum; hafði hann þá umsýslu ekki minnr en Hǫskuldr.
Dœtra Hǫskulds er hér eigi getit mjǫk; þó eru menn frá þeim komnir.
Óláfr Hǫskuldsson er nú ok frumvaxti ok er allra manna fríðastr sýnum, þeira er menn hafi sét. Hann bjó sik vel at vápnum ok klæðum.
Melkorka, móðir Óláfs, bjó á Melkorkustǫðum, sem fyrr var ritat.
Hǫskuldr veik meir af sér umsjá um ráðahag Melkorku en verit hafði; kvazk honum þat þykkja ekki síðr koma til Óláfs, sonar hennar; en Óláfr kvazk henni veita skyldu sina ásjá, slíka sem hann kunni at veita henni.
Melkorku þykkir Hǫskuldr gera (50) svívirðliga til sín; hefir hon þat í húg sér, at gera þá hluti nǫkkura, er honum þœtti eigi betr.
Þorbjǫrn skrjúpr hafði mest veitt umsjá um bú Melkorku; vakit hafði hann bónorð við hana, þá er hon hafði skamma stund búit, en Melkorka tók því fjarri.
Skip stóð uppi á Borðeyri í Hrútafirði; Ǫrn hét stýrimaðr; hann var hirðmaðr Haralds konungs Gunnhildarsonar.
Melkorka vekr tal við Óláf, son sinn, þá er þau finnask, at hon vill, at hann fari útan at vitja frænda sinna gǫfugra, - “því at ek hefi þat satt sagt, at Mýrkjartan er at vísu faðir minn, ok er hann konungr Íra; er þér ok hœgt at ráðask til skips á Borðeyri.”
And now Höskuld sits quietly at home and is beginning to grow feeble with old age, while his sons have now grown to manhood.
And now Höskuld sits quietly at home and is beginning to grow feeble with old age, while his sons have now grown to manhood.
Thorleik made his home on the farmstead called Kambsnes, and Höskuld made over to him his share of the property.
Thorleik made his home on the farmstead called Kambsnes, and Höskuld made over to him his share of the property.
He then married, and took to wife a woman by the name of Gjalflaug, a daughter of Arnbjorn, son of Sleitu-Bjarni (Slack-Bjarni) and Thorlaug, daughter of Thord of Hofdi. It was a notably good match; Gjaflaug was a beautiful woman and a reserved and prideful one.
He then married, and took to wife a woman by the name of Gjalflaug, a daughter of Arnbjorn, son of Sleitu-Bjarni (Slack-Bjarni) and Thorlaug, daughter of Thord of Hofdi. It was a notably good match; Gjaflaug was a beautiful woman and a reserved and prideful one.
Thorleik was harsh and exacting, and a man of uncommon force and tenacity.
Thorleik was harsh and exacting, and a man of uncommon force and tenacity.
There was no great affection between the two kinsmen, Hrut and Thorleik.
There was no great affection between the two kinsmen, Hrut and Thorleik.
Höskuld’s son Bárd stayed at home with his father; by this time he had the management of things no less than Höskuld.
Höskuld’s son Bárd stayed at home with his father; by this time he had the management of things no less than Höskuld.
Of Höskuld’s daughters there is little to tell here, although there are good men have come from them.
Of Höskuld’s daughters there is little to tell here, although there are good men have come from them.
Olaf Höskuldson, too, was a grown man by this time, and he was as fine-looking a man as has ever been seen.
Olaf Höskuldson, too, was a grown man by this time, and he was as fine-looking a man as has ever been seen.
Melkorka was living at Melkorkustadir, as has already been related.
Melkorka was living at Melkorkustadir, as has already been related.
Höskuld avoided the care of Melkorka and her affairs more and more as time went on. He said that to his mind all that was no less her son Olaf’s concern. And Olaf said he would take such care of her as he best could.
Höskuld avoided the care of Melkorka and her affairs more and more as time went on. He said that to his mind all that was no less her son Olaf’s concern. And Olaf said he would take such care of her as he best could.
To Melkorka it seemed that Höskuld was (56) treating her shamefully. And she made up her own mind to do something or other which he would be sorry for.
To Melkorka it seemed that Höskuld was (56) treating her shamefully. And she made up her own mind to do something or other which he would be sorry for.
Thorbjorn Skrjup had mostly had the management of Melkorka’s farm. He had asked her to marry him after he had been on the place for some time, but Melkorka would not have it.
Thorbjorn Skrjup had mostly had the management of Melkorka’s farm. He had asked her to marry him after he had been on the place for some time, but Melkorka would not have it.
Now, there was a sea-going ship laid up ashore at Bordeyri in the Hrutafjord. Örn was the name of its master. He was of the court of King Harald Gunnhildarson.
Now, there was a sea-going ship laid up ashore at Bordeyri in the Hrutafjord. Örn was the name of its master. He was of the court of King Harald Gunnhildarson.
Melkorka had a talk with her son Olaf when next they met, and told him that she would like to have him go abroad to visit high-born kinsfolk of hers: “For I have told you the truth, that Myrkjartan is really my father, and he is king of the Irish. And you could quite conveniently take ship at Bordeyri now.”
Melkorka had a talk with her son Olaf when next they met, and told him that she would like to have him go abroad to visit high-born kinsfolk of hers: “For I have told you the truth, that Myrkjartan is really my father, and he is king of the Irish. And you could quite conveniently take ship at Bordeyri now.”
Nú kemr Hǫskuldr heim af þingi ok spyrr þessi tíðendi; honum líkar heldr þungliga; en með því at vandamenn hans áttu hlut í, þá sefaðisk hann ok lét vera kyrrt.
Þeim Óláfi byrjaði vel, ok tóku Nóreg.
(52) Ǫrn fýsir Óláf at fara til hirðar Haralds konungs, kvað hann gera til þeira góðan sóma, er ekki váru betr menntir en Óláfr var.
Óláfr kvazk þat mundu af taka.
Fara þeir Óláfr ok Ǫrn nú til hirðarinnar ok fá þar góðar viðtǫkur; vaknar konungr þegar við Óláf fyrir sakar frænda hans ok bauð honum þegar með sér at vera.
Gunnhildr lagði mikil mæti á Óláf, er hon vissi, at hann var bróðursonr Hrúts;
en sumir menn kǫlluðu þat, at henni þœtti þó skemmtan at tala við Óláf, þótt hann nyti ekki annarra at.
Óláfr ógladdisk, er á leið vetrinn.
Ǫrn spyrr, hvat honum væri til ekka.
Óláfr svarar: “Ferð á ek á hǫndum mér at fara vestr um haf, ok þœtti mér mikit undir, at þú ættir hlut í, at sú yrði farin sumarlangt.”
Now Höskuld comes home from the Thing and is told these tidings. He took it much to heart. But seeing that his nearest relatives were concerned in it, he took it all quietly and held his peace.
Now Höskuld comes home from the Thing and is told these tidings. He took it much to heart. But seeing that his nearest relatives were concerned in it, he took it all quietly and held his peace.
Olaf and his company had a good voyage and reached Norway.
Olaf and his company had a good voyage and reached Norway.
Örn urged Olaf to go to court, to King Harald; saying that he had shown marked favor to men of no better connection than Olaf.
Örn urged Olaf to go to court, to King Harald; saying that he had shown marked favor to men of no better connection than Olaf.
Olaf said he was content to do so.
Olaf said he was content to do so.
So now Olaf and Örn go on up to court and are well received. The king straightway took notice of Olaf, on his kinsfolk’s account, and invited him to stay on with him.
So now Olaf and Örn go on up to court and are well received. The king straightway took notice of Olaf, on his kinsfolk’s account, and invited him to stay on with him.
Gunnhild made much of Olaf as soon as she learned that he was a nephew of Hrut’s.
Gunnhild made much of Olaf as soon as she learned that he was a nephew of Hrut’s.
But there were also those who said that she would have found pleasure in talking with Olaf anyway, even if he enjoyed no such advantage.
But there were also those who said that she would have found pleasure in talking with Olaf anyway, even if he enjoyed no such advantage.
Olaf grew moody as the winter drew on.
Olaf grew moody as the winter drew on.
Om asked what was worrying him.
Om asked what was worrying him.
Olaf said: “I have a journey to make overseas to the West, and I should take it as a great favor if you could help matters along so that this voyage could be made this coming summer.”
Olaf said: “I have a journey to make overseas to the West, and I should take it as a great favor if you could help matters along so that this voyage could be made this coming summer.”
Síðan bað konungr ok Gunnhildr Óláf vel fara.
Stigu síðan á skip ok sigla þegar í haf.
Þeim byrjaði illa um sumarit; hafa þeir þokur miklar, en vinda litla ok óhagstœða, þá sem váru; rak þá víða um hafit; váru þeir flestir innan borðs, at á kom hafvilla.
Þat varð um síðir, at þoku hóf af hǫfði, ok gerðusk vindar á; var þá tekit til segls.
Tóksk þá umrœða, hvert til Írlands myndi at leita, ok urðu menn eigi ásáttir á þat.
Ǫrn var til móts, en mestr hluti manna mælti í gegn, ok kváðu Ǫrn allan villask ok sǫgðu þá ráða eiga, er fleiri váru.
Síðan var skotit til ráða Óláfs, en Óláfr segir: “Þat vil ek, at þeir ráði, sem hyggnari eru;
því verr þykki mér sem oss muni duga heimskra manna ráð, er þau koma fleiri saman.”
After this the king and Gunnhild bade Olaf farewell.
After this the king and Gunnhild bade Olaf farewell.
Then he went on board and stood out to sea.
Then he went on board and stood out to sea.
(62) They met with hard weather that summer; came in for a great deal of fog; with light winds, and shifty what there was of them. They were driven about far and wide on the high seas. Most of the men on board quite lost their bearings.
(62) They met with hard weather that summer; came in for a great deal of fog; with light winds, and shifty what there was of them. They were driven about far and wide on the high seas. Most of the men on board quite lost their bearings.
After some time the fog lifted overhead and the wind came up. They then took to the sails.
After some time the fog lifted overhead and the wind came up. They then took to the sails.
Then arose the question as to which way Ireland was to be looked for, and the men were not agreed about it.
Then arose the question as to which way Ireland was to be looked for, and the men were not agreed about it.
Örn took one side of the question, with the greater number of the ship’s company against him. They argued that Örn was out of his reckoning the worst of them all, and that the greater number should rule.
Örn took one side of the question, with the greater number of the ship’s company against him. They argued that Örn was out of his reckoning the worst of them all, and that the greater number should rule.
At length they put the question up to Olaf, but Olaf said: “I would have those rule who are the best informed.
At length they put the question up to Olaf, but Olaf said: “I would have those rule who are the best informed.
To my mind, home-bred bungling and guesswork will serve us all the worse the more there are of them.”
To my mind, home-bred bungling and guesswork will serve us all the worse the more there are of them.”
Írar œpa þá heróp ok vaða út á sjóinn ok ætla at leiða upp skipit undir þeim; var ekki djúpara en þeim tók undir hendr eða í bróklinda þeim, er stœrstir váru.
Pollrinn var svá djúpr, þar er skipit flaut, at eigi kenndi niðr.
Óláfr bað þá brjóta upp vápn sín ok fylkja á skipinu allt á millum stafna.
Stóðu þeir ok svá þykkt, at allt var skarat með skjǫldum; stóð spjótsoddr út hjá hverjum skjaldarsþorði.
Óláfr gekk þá fram í stafninn ok var svá búinn, at hann var í brynju ok hafði hjálm á hǫfði gullroðinn; hann var gyrðr sverði, ok váru gullrekin hjǫltin; hann hafði krókaspjót í hendi hǫggtekit ok allgóð mál í; rauðan skjǫld hafði hann fyrir sér, ok var dregit á leó með gulli.
En er Írar sjá viðbúnað þeira, þá skytr þeim skelk í bringu, ok þykkir þeim eigi jafnauðvelt féfang sem þeir hugðu til.
Hnekkja Írar nú ferðinni ok hlaupa saman í eitt þorp.
Síðan kemr kurr mikill í lið þeira, ok þykkir þeim nú auðvitat, at þetta var herskip, ok muni (56) vera miklu fleiri skipa ván;
gera nú skyndiliga orð til konungs; var þat ok hœgt, því at konungr var þá skammt í brott þaðan á veizlum.
Hann ríðr þegar með sveit manna þar til, sem skipit var.
Eigi var lengra á millum landsins ok þess, er skipit flaut, en vel mátti nema tal millum manna.
Opt hǫfðu Írar veitt þeim árásir með skotum, ok varð þeim Óláfi ekki mein at.
Óláfr stóð með þessum búningi, sem fyrr var ritat, ok fannsk mǫnnum mart um, hversu skǫruligr sjá maðr var, er þar var skipsforingi.
En er skipverjar Óláfs sjá mikit riddaralið ríða til þeira, ok var it frœknligsta, þá þagna þeir, því at þeim þótti mikill liðsmunr við at eiga.
En er Óláfr heyrði þenna kurr, sem í sveit hans gerðisk, bað hann þá herða hugina, - “því at nú er gott efni í váru máli, heilsa þeir Írar nú Mýrkjartani, konungi sínum.”
Thereupon the Irish shouted their war-shout and waded out into the sea, to haul the ship out of the water with the crew aboard. It was no deeper than up to their armpits, or to the waist of the tallest of them;
Thereupon the Irish shouted their war-shout and waded out into the sea, to haul the ship out of the water with the crew aboard. It was no deeper than up to their armpits, or to the waist of the tallest of them;
but the pool in which the ship (64) floated was too deep to touch bottom.
but the pool in which the ship (64) floated was too deep to touch bottom.
Olaf called the men to arms and ordered them to fall in along the ship’s rail, from stem to stern,
Olaf called the men to arms and ordered them to fall in along the ship’s rail, from stem to stern,
in such close order that the shields overlapped all along the line. A spearhead stuck out under every shield-rim.
in such close order that the shields overlapped all along the line. A spearhead stuck out under every shield-rim.
Then Olaf took his place in the bows, and was armed in this fashion, that he wore a coat of mail and on his head a gold-worked helmet; he was girt with a sword of which the hilts were gold-inlaid; with a barbed spear in his hand, drawn from a gravemound and bearing a potent inscription; a red shield covered him, on which was a lion drawn in gold.
Then Olaf took his place in the bows, and was armed in this fashion, that he wore a coat of mail and on his head a gold-worked helmet; he was girt with a sword of which the hilts were gold-inlaid; with a barbed spear in his hand, drawn from a gravemound and bearing a potent inscription; a red shield covered him, on which was a lion drawn in gold.
When the Irish saw their array, fear seized upon them, and it no longer looked like such easy booty as they had counted on.
When the Irish saw their array, fear seized upon them, and it no longer looked like such easy booty as they had counted on.
So now the Irish fall back and run together into a crowd in a nearby village.
So now the Irish fall back and run together into a crowd in a nearby village.
Then presently there arose a great clam or among them. Now it seemed quite plain to them that this ship was a freebooter and that many more of the same kind were shortly to be looked for.
Then presently there arose a great clam or among them. Now it seemed quite plain to them that this ship was a freebooter and that many more of the same kind were shortly to be looked for.
So now they send word to the king, in all haste. This was an easy matter, for the king was just then on a progress a little way off.
So now they send word to the king, in all haste. This was an easy matter, for the king was just then on a progress a little way off.
He came riding down straightway with a suite of men, down to where the ship lay.
He came riding down straightway with a suite of men, down to where the ship lay.
It was not farther from shore to where the ship lay afloat than so that men could easily call across to one another.
It was not farther from shore to where the ship lay afloat than so that men could easily call across to one another.
Meantime the Irish had been making repeated onsets on them with shot-weapons, but Olaf and his men came to no harm by it.
Meantime the Irish had been making repeated onsets on them with shot-weapons, but Olaf and his men came to no harm by it.
Olaf was standing in his place in these arms and accoutrements, as before was written; and men had much to say of how masterly was the bearing of this man who was the ship’s master.
Olaf was standing in his place in these arms and accoutrements, as before was written; and men had much to say of how masterly was the bearing of this man who was the ship’s master.
But when Olaf’s shipmates saw this great body of horsemen come riding down on them, and a very warlike array they were, then they fell silent, for it looked to them as if they had to do with heavy odds.
But when Olaf’s shipmates saw this great body of horsemen come riding down on them, and a very warlike array they were, then they fell silent, for it looked to them as if they had to do with heavy odds.
But so soon as Olaf heard this muttering that ran through his company he told them (65) to bear up and take heart, “for now our case has taken a turn for the better. The Irish are saluting Myrkjartan, their king.”
But so soon as Olaf heard this muttering that ran through his company he told them (65) to bear up and take heart, “for now our case has taken a turn for the better. The Irish are saluting Myrkjartan, their king.”
Hann kvað svá vera.
Þá spyrr konungr almæltra tíðenda.
Óláfr leysti vel ór þeim tíðendum ǫllum, er hann var spurðr.
Þá spurði konungr, hvaðan þeir hefði út látit, eða hverra menn þeir væri.
Ok enn spyrr konungr vandligar um ætt Óláfs en fyrrum, því at konungr fann, at þessi maðr var ríklátr ok vildi eigi segja lengra en hann spurði.
Óláfr segir: “Þat skal yðr kunnigt gera, at vér ýttum af (57) Nóregi, en þetta eru hirðmenn Haralds konungs Gunnhildarsonar, er hér eru innan borðs.
En yðr er þat frá ætt minni at segja, herra, at faðir minn býr á Íslandi, er Hǫskuldr heitir, - hann er stórættaðr maðr,
- en móðurkyn mitt vænti ek, at þér munið sét hafa fleira en ek, því at Melkorka heitir móðir mín, ok er mér sagt með sǫnnu, at hon sé dóttir þín, konungr,
ok þat hefir mik til rekit svá langrar ferðar, ok liggr mér nú mikit við, hver svǫr þú veitir mínu máli.”
Then the king asked Olaf the news of the day.
Then the king asked Olaf the news of the day.
Olaf made fair answer to all questions that were asked of him.
Olaf made fair answer to all questions that were asked of him.
Then the king asked from what place they had set out, and of what people they were.
Then the king asked from what place they had set out, and of what people they were.
And further the king inquired particularly about Olaf’s kin and connections. But inasmuch as the king found that this man stood on his dignity and gave answers to no more than he was asked, he pushed his questioning no farther for the time.
And further the king inquired particularly about Olaf’s kin and connections. But inasmuch as the king found that this man stood on his dignity and gave answers to no more than he was asked, he pushed his questioning no farther for the time.
Olaf told him, “I will tell you this much, that we put out from Norway, and that these men are of the court of King Harald Gunnhildarson, who are aboard with me.
Olaf told him, “I will tell you this much, that we put out from Norway, and that these men are of the court of King Harald Gunnhildarson, who are aboard with me.
And there is this to tell you of my kin and connections, Sire, that my father is living in Iceland, and that his name is Höskuld and he is of high birth.
And there is this to tell you of my kin and connections, Sire, that my father is living in Iceland, and that his name is Höskuld and he is of high birth.
Of my kinsfolk on my mother’s side I believe you will have seen more than I. For my mother is named Melkorka, and it has been truthfully told to me that she is your own daughter, O King.
Of my kinsfolk on my mother’s side I believe you will have seen more than I. For my mother is named Melkorka, and it has been truthfully told to me that she is your own daughter, O King.
And this it is that has brought me out on so long a voyage. And now I am much concerned to know what you will have to say to our present case.”
And this it is that has brought me out on so long a voyage. And now I am much concerned to know what you will have to say to our present case.”
Óláfr tók við henni báðum hǫndum ok setti kerlingu á kné sér ok sagði, at fóstra hennar sat í góðum kostum á Íslandi.
Þá seldi Óláfr henni knífinn ok beltit, ok kenndi kerling gripina ok varð grátfegin; kvað þat bæði vera, at sonr Melkorku var skǫruligr, - “enda á hann til þess varit.”
Var kerling hress þann vetr allan.
Konungr var lítt í kyrrsæti, því at þá var jafnan herskátt um Vestrlǫnd; rak konungr af sér þann vetr víkinga ok úthlaupsmenn.
Var Óláfr með sveit sína á konungsskipi, (59) ok þótti sú sveit heldr úrig viðskiptis, þeim er í móti váru.
Konungr hafði þá tal við Oláf ok hans félaga ok alla ráðagørð, því at honum reyndisk Óláfr bæði vitr ok framgjarn í ǫllum mannraunum.
En at áliðnum vetri stefndi konungr þing, ok varð allfjǫlmennt.
Konungr stóð upp ok talaði; hann hóf svá mál sitt: “Þat er yðr kunnigt, at hér kom sá maðr í fyrra haust, er dóttursonr minn er, en þó stórættaðr í fóðurkyn;
virðisk mér Óláfr svá mikill atgørvimaðr ok skǫrungr, at vér eigim eigi slíkra manna hér kost.
Nú vil ek bjóða honum konungdóm eptir minn dag, því at Óláfr er betr til yfirmanns fallinn en synir mínir.”
Olaf met her with open arms and seated the old woman on his knees and told her that her nurseling was settled and doing well in Iceland.
Olaf met her with open arms and seated the old woman on his knees and told her that her nurseling was settled and doing well in Iceland.
And Olaf then showed her the knife and belt, and the old woman knew the gifts; and she was moved to tears, and declared that the truth was both that Melkorka’s son was a manly fellow and that he had a good right to be.
And Olaf then showed her the knife and belt, and the old woman knew the gifts; and she was moved to tears, and declared that the truth was both that Melkorka’s son was a manly fellow and that he had a good right to be.
The old woman was well and strong all through that winter.
The old woman was well and strong all through that winter.
The king spent but little time at home through the winter, for at that time there was continual raiding on the lands of the West. But the king beat off all vikings and freebooters that winter.
The king spent but little time at home through the winter, for at that time there was continual raiding on the lands of the West. But the king beat off all vikings and freebooters that winter.
Olaf took his place on the king’s ship with all his company, and it was said that their band was a hard one to deal with for any who had to meet them.
Olaf took his place on the king’s ship with all his company, and it was said that their band was a hard one to deal with for any who had to meet them.
The king took Olaf and his followers into consultation in all his plans, inasmuch as he found that Olaf was both wise and forward in all those things that would show the quality of his manhood.
The king took Olaf and his followers into consultation in all his plans, inasmuch as he found that Olaf was both wise and forward in all those things that would show the quality of his manhood.
Now, when winter was drawing toward its end the king called a Thing of his people, and it was an uncommonly full meeting.
Now, when winter was drawing toward its end the king called a Thing of his people, and it was an uncommonly full meeting.
The king stood up and spoke, and this is what he had to say, “It is known to you that there came a man here this last fall who is my daughter’s son, and who is likewise of noble birth on his father’s side.
The king stood up and spoke, and this is what he had to say, “It is known to you that there came a man here this last fall who is my daughter’s son, and who is likewise of noble birth on his father’s side.
I have found Olaf to be so sound and able a man that his like is not to be had among us.
I have found Olaf to be so sound and able a man that his like is not to be had among us.
Now it is my wish to tender him the kingship after my time, inasmuch as Olaf is better fit to be a ruler than my own sons.”
Now it is my wish to tender him the kingship after my time, inasmuch as Olaf is better fit to be a ruler than my own sons.”
Óláfr þakkar honum þetta boð með mikilli snilld ok fǫgrum orðum, en kvazk þó eigi mundu á hætta, hversu synir hans þylði þat, þá er Mýrkjartans missti við, kvað betra vera at fá skjóta sœmð en langa svívirðing;
kvazk til Nóregs fara vilja, þegar skipum væri óhætt at halda á millum landa, kvað móður sina mundu hafa lítit ynði, ef hann kœmi eigi aptr.
Konungr bað Óláf ráða; síðan var slitit þinginu.
En er skip Óláfs var albúit, þá fylgir konungr Óláfi til skips ok gaf honum spjót gullrekit ok sverð búit ok mikit fé annat.
Óláfr beiddisk at flytja fóstru Melkorku á brott með sér; konungr kvað þess enga þǫrf, ok fór hon eigi.
Stigu þeir Óláfr á skip sitt, ok skiljask þeir konungr með allmikilli vingan; eptir þat sigla þeir Óláfr í haf.
Þeim byrjaði vel ok tóku Nóreg, ok er Óláfs fǫr allfræg; setja nú upp skipit.
Fær Óláfr sér hesta ok sœkir nú á fund Haralds konungs með sínu fǫruneyti.
Olaf thanked him for this offer with much courtesy and (68) many fair words; but yet said he was not willing to take the chance of how patiently his sons would put up with it when Myrkjartan was gone; he said that “better is a brief honor than a long disgrace”;
Olaf thanked him for this offer with much courtesy and (68) many fair words; but yet said he was not willing to take the chance of how patiently his sons would put up with it when Myrkjartan was gone; he said that “better is a brief honor than a long disgrace”;
said he had made up his mind to set out for Norway so soon as the passage from shore to shore was to be made without risk; said also that his mother would have little to comfort her if he did not come back.
said he had made up his mind to set out for Norway so soon as the passage from shore to shore was to be made without risk; said also that his mother would have little to comfort her if he did not come back.
The king let Olaf have it his way. After that the Thing broke up.
The king let Olaf have it his way. After that the Thing broke up.
Now when Olaf was all ready to sail, then the king went down to the ship with him and made him a gift of a gold-chased spear and a jewelled sword and many other valuable things.
Now when Olaf was all ready to sail, then the king went down to the ship with him and made him a gift of a gold-chased spear and a jewelled sword and many other valuable things.
Olaf begged leave to carry Melkorka’s nurse away with him. The king said there was no need of it, and she went not.
Olaf begged leave to carry Melkorka’s nurse away with him. The king said there was no need of it, and she went not.
Olaf and his men then went aboard their ship, and they took leave of the king on the friendliest terms. Thereupon Olaf and his shipmates sailed out to sea.
Olaf and his men then went aboard their ship, and they took leave of the king on the friendliest terms. Thereupon Olaf and his shipmates sailed out to sea.
They had a good passage and reached Norway, and Olaf’s cruise became quite famous. So now they laid up the ship.
They had a good passage and reached Norway, and Olaf’s cruise became quite famous. So now they laid up the ship.
Olaf got horses and set out for King Harald’s court with all his company.
Olaf got horses and set out for King Harald’s court with all his company.
Óláfr Hǫskuldsson kom nú til hirðar Haralds konungs, ok tók konungr honum vel, en Gunnhildr miklu betr.
Þau buðu honum til sín ok lǫgðu þar mǫrg orð til.
Óláfr þiggr þat, ok fara þeir Ǫrn báðir til konungs hirðar; leggr konungr ok Gunnhildr svá mikla virðing á Óláf, at engi útlendr maðr hafði slíka virðing af þeim þegit.
Óláfr gaf konungi ok Gunnhildi marga fáséna gripi, er hann hafði þegit á Írlandi vestr.
Haraldr konungr gaf Óláfi at jólum ǫll klæði skorin af skarlati.
Sitr nú Óláfr um kyrrt um vetrinn; ok um várit, er á leið, taka þeir tal milli sín, konungr ok Óláfr;
beiddisk Óláfr orlofs af konungi at fara út til Íslands um sumarit; - “á ek þangat at vitja,” segir hann, “gǫfugra frænda.”
So Olaf Höskuldson now came back to King Harald’s court, and the king received him courteously, but Gunnhild much more cordially.
So Olaf Höskuldson now came back to King Harald’s court, and the king received him courteously, but Gunnhild much more cordially.
They asked him to be their guest and were at pains to use many fair words.
They asked him to be their guest and were at pains to use many fair words.
Olaf accepted, and both Örn and he joined the king’s court. The king and Gunnhild both made much of Olaf, so much so that no foreigner had ever been held in such honor by them.
Olaf accepted, and both Örn and he joined the king’s court. The king and Gunnhild both made much of Olaf, so much so that no foreigner had ever been held in such honor by them.
Olaf gave many rare gifts to the king and to Gunnhild, things of value which he had come by out west in Ireland.
Olaf gave many rare gifts to the king and to Gunnhild, things of value which he had come by out west in Ireland.
Harald gave Olaf at Yuletide full clothing cut out of scarlet satin.
Harald gave Olaf at Yuletide full clothing cut out of scarlet satin.
So Olaf spent the winter quietly, and when the spring was passing the king and Olaf had some talk together.
So Olaf spent the winter quietly, and when the spring was passing the king and Olaf had some talk together.
Olaf asked the king’s leave to go out to Iceland during the summer, “I have noble kinsfolk to visit out there,” said he.
Olaf asked the king’s leave to go out to Iceland during the summer, “I have noble kinsfolk to visit out there,” said he.
Óláfr setr upp skip sitt, en fé hans er norðan flutt.
En er þat er sýslat, ríðr Óláfr norðan við tólfta mann ok heim á Hǫskuldsstaði.
Hǫskuldr fagnar blíðliga syni sínum; brœðr hans taka ok með blíðu við honum ok allir frændr hans; þó var flest um með þeim Bárði.
Óláfr varð frægr af ferð þessi; þá var ok kunnigt gǫrt kynferði Óláfs, at hann var dóttursonr Mýrkjartans Írakonungs.
Spyrsk þetta um allt land ok þar með virðing sú, er ríkir menn hǫfðu á hann lagt, þeir er hann hafði heimsótt.
Óláfr hafði ok mikit fé út haft ok er nú um vetrinn með feðr sínum.
Melkorka kom brátt á fund Óláfs, sonar síns; Óláfr fagnar henni með allri blíðu; spyrr hon mjǫk margs af Írlandi, fyrst at feðr sínum ok ǫðrum frændum sínum; Óláfr segir slíkt, er hon spyrr.
Brátt spurði hon, ef fóstra hennar lifði; Óláfr kvað hana at vísu lifa.
Melkorka spyrr þá, hví hann vildi eigi veita henni eptirlæti þat, at flytja hana til Íslands.
Þá svarar Óláfr: “Ekki fýstu menn þess, móðir, at ek flytta fóstru þína af Írlandi.”
Olaf laid up his ship and his goods were carried down home from the north.
Olaf laid up his ship and his goods were carried down home from the north.
And when these things had been duly cared for, Olaf rode down from the north with a company of twelve, and home to Höskuldstadir.
And when these things had been duly cared for, Olaf rode down from the north with a company of twelve, and home to Höskuldstadir.
Höskuld welcomed his son kindly. His brothers, too, welcomed him in all kindliness, and all his kinsfolk. Still the closest friendship was between Bárd and him.
Höskuld welcomed his son kindly. His brothers, too, welcomed him in all kindliness, and all his kinsfolk. Still the closest friendship was between Bárd and him.
Olaf gained renown from this cruise. Then was Olaf’s kinship also made known, that he was a daughter’s-son of Myrkjartan, the king of the Irish.
Olaf gained renown from this cruise. Then was Olaf’s kinship also made known, that he was a daughter’s-son of Myrkjartan, the king of the Irish.
This was told throughout the country, and with it the honors which notable men had bestowed upon him, whose guest he had been.
This was told throughout the country, and with it the honors which notable men had bestowed upon him, whose guest he had been.
Olaf had also brought goods out with him to a (71)nlarge amount. And so now he passed the winter at home with his father.
Olaf had also brought goods out with him to a (71)nlarge amount. And so now he passed the winter at home with his father.
Melkorka came over right soon to see her son. Olaf met her with all tenderness. She had many questions to ask about things in Ireland. First about her father and then her other folks. Olaf had an answer for all that she asked.
Melkorka came over right soon to see her son. Olaf met her with all tenderness. She had many questions to ask about things in Ireland. First about her father and then her other folks. Olaf had an answer for all that she asked.
Soon she asked if her nurse were still living. Olaf said she was, indeed.
Soon she asked if her nurse were still living. Olaf said she was, indeed.
Melkorka then asked him why he had not been willing to give her the pleasure of bringing her nurse with him to Iceland.
Melkorka then asked him why he had not been willing to give her the pleasure of bringing her nurse with him to Iceland.
And Olaf told her, “There were those who did not think best, Mother, that I carry your nurse away out of Ireland.”
And Olaf told her, “There were those who did not think best, Mother, that I carry your nurse away out of Ireland.”
Þat er sagt einn dag, er þeir feðgar, Hǫskuldr ok Óláfr, gengu frá búð ok til fundar við Egil; Egill fagnar þeim vel, því at þeir Hǫskuldr váru mjǫk málkunnir.
Hǫskuldr vekr nú bónorðit fyrir hǫnd Óláfs ok biðr Þorgerðar.
Hon var ok þar á þinginu.
Egill tók þessu máli vel, kvazk hafa góða frétt af þeim feðgum; - “veit ek ok, Hǫskuldr,” segir Egill, “at þú ert ættstórr maðr ok mikils verðr, en Óláfr er frægr af ferð sinni;
er ok eigi kynligt, at slíkir menn ætli framarla til, því at hann skortir eigi ætt né fríðleika;
en þó skal nú þetta við Þorgerði rœða, því at þat er engum manni fœri, at fá Þorgerðar án hennar vilja.”
They say that Höskuld and Olaf, father and son together, went out from their booth one day to look for Egil. Egil greeted them cordially, for Höskuld and he had a good deal of a speaking-acquaintance.
They say that Höskuld and Olaf, father and son together, went out from their booth one day to look for Egil. Egil greeted them cordially, for Höskuld and he had a good deal of a speaking-acquaintance.
Now Höskuld brought up their suit in Olaf’s behalf and sued for Thorgerd’s hand in marriage.
Now Höskuld brought up their suit in Olaf’s behalf and sued for Thorgerd’s hand in marriage.
She too was at the Thing meeting.
She too was at the Thing meeting.
Egil was well inclined to the proposal; said he had heard only good reports of them, both father and son; “and I am also well aware, Höskuld, that you are a man of gentle birth and highly regarded; and Olaf is renowned for this cruise which he has made,
Egil was well inclined to the proposal; said he had heard only good reports of them, both father and son; “and I am also well aware, Höskuld, that you are a man of gentle birth and highly regarded; and Olaf is renowned for this cruise which he has made,
and it is no wonder if such men as he fix their hopes well to the front, for he lacks neither good birth nor good looks.
and it is no wonder if such men as he fix their hopes well to the front, for he lacks neither good birth nor good looks.
And yet all this will have to be left to Thorgerd herself, inasmuch as it is for no man to come by Thorgerd without her own consent.”
And yet all this will have to be left to Thorgerd herself, inasmuch as it is for no man to come by Thorgerd without her own consent.”
Hǫskuldr bað hann því ráða.
Óláfr var búinn á þá leið, at hann var í skarlatsklæðum, er Haraldr konungr hafði gefit honum; hann hafði á hǫfði hjálm gullroðinn ok sverð búit í hendi, er Mýrkjartan konungr hafði gefit honum.
Nú ganga þeir Hǫskuldr ok Óláfr til búðar Egils; gengr Hǫskuldr fyrir, en Óláfr þegar eptir.
Egill fagnar þeim vel, ok sezk Hǫskuldr (65) niðr hjá honum, en Óláfr stóð upp ok litaðisk um.
Hann sá, hvar kona sat á pallinum í búðinni; sú kona var væn ok stórmannlig ok vel búin;
vita þóttisk hann, at þar myndi vera Þorgerðr, dóttir Egils.
Óláfr gengr at pallinum ok sezk niðr hjá henni.
Þorgerðr heilsar þessum manni ok spyrr, hverr hann sé.
Óláfr segir nafn sitt ok fǫður síns, - “mun þér þykkja djarfr gerask ambáttarsonrinn, er hann þorir at sitja hjá þér ok ætlar at tala við þik.”
Höskuld told him to have it his own way.
Höskuld told him to have it his own way.
Olaf was decked out in this fashion, that he was dressed in the scarlet satin clothes which King Harald had given him; he wore a gold-inlaid helmet, and carried a jewelled sword in his hand, which King Myrkjartan had given him.
Olaf was decked out in this fashion, that he was dressed in the scarlet satin clothes which King Harald had given him; he wore a gold-inlaid helmet, and carried a jewelled sword in his hand, which King Myrkjartan had given him.
So now Höskuld and Olaf together take their way to Egil’s booth. Höskuld goes first, but Olaf follows him close.
So now Höskuld and Olaf together take their way to Egil’s booth. Höskuld goes first, but Olaf follows him close.
Egil makes them welcome, and Höskuld sits down beside him, but Olaf remained standing and looked about him.
Egil makes them welcome, and Höskuld sits down beside him, but Olaf remained standing and looked about him.
He saw where (75) a woman was sitting on the raised bench of the booth. She was a beautiful woman, with a lordly air, and very well dressed.
He saw where (75) a woman was sitting on the raised bench of the booth. She was a beautiful woman, with a lordly air, and very well dressed.
He felt sure that this must be Thorgerd, Egil’s daughter.
He felt sure that this must be Thorgerd, Egil’s daughter.
Olaf goes up to the dais and sits down beside her.
Olaf goes up to the dais and sits down beside her.
Thorgerd greeted this man and asked who he might be.
Thorgerd greeted this man and asked who he might be.
Olaf gave his own name and his father’s. “May be you think the slave-girl’s son is growing overbold if he dares to sit down beside you and means to talk to you.”
Olaf gave his own name and his father’s. “May be you think the slave-girl’s son is growing overbold if he dares to sit down beside you and means to talk to you.”
Síðan taka þau tal milli sín ok tala þann dag allan; ekki heyra aðrir menn til tals þeira.
Ok áðr þau sliti talinu, er til heimtr Egill ok Hǫskuldr, teksk þá af nýju rœða um bónorðsmálit Óláfs; víkr Þorgerðr þá til ráða fǫður síns.
Var þá þetta mál auðsótt, ok fóru þá þegar festar fram.
Var þeim þá unnt af metorða Laxdœlum, því at þeim skyldi fœra heim konuna;
var ákveðin brullaupsstefna á Hǫskuldsstǫðum at sjau vikum sumars.
Eptir þat skilja þeir Egill ok Hǫskuldr, ok ríða þeir feðgar heim á Hǫskuldsstaði ok eru heima um sumarit, ok er allt kyrrt.
Síðan var stofnat til boðs á Hǫskuldsstǫðum ok ekki til sparat, en œrin váru efni.
Boðsmenn koma at ákveðinni stefnu; váru þeir Borgfirðingar allfjǫlmennir; var þar Egill ok Þorsteinn, sonr hans.
Þar var ok brúðr í fǫr ok valit lið ór heraðinu.
Hǫskuldr hafði ok fjǫlmennt fyrir.
Veizla var allskǫrulig; váru menn með gjǫfum á brott leiddir.
Þá gaf Óláfr Agli sverðit Mýrkjartansnaut (66) ok varð Egill allléttbrúnn við gjǫfina.
Allt var þar tíðendalaust, ok fara menn heim.
After this they fell to talking together, and they kept at it the rest of the day. No one overheard their talk.
After this they fell to talking together, and they kept at it the rest of the day. No one overheard their talk.
But before they left off, Egil and Höskuld were called in. Olaf’s suit was then taken under advisement anew. Thorgerd then leaves it all to her father.
But before they left off, Egil and Höskuld were called in. Olaf’s suit was then taken under advisement anew. Thorgerd then leaves it all to her father.
So then the suit was easily won, and pledges were exchanged forthwith.
So then the suit was easily won, and pledges were exchanged forthwith.
Precedence was given the Laxdalers, inasmuch as the woman was to be brought home to them.
Precedence was given the Laxdalers, inasmuch as the woman was to be brought home to them.
The wedding was arranged to take place at Höskuldstadir, seven weeks before the end of summer.
The wedding was arranged to take place at Höskuldstadir, seven weeks before the end of summer.
So then Egil and Höskuld took leave of one another, and father and son rode away home to Höskuldstadir, and spent the summer at home; and all is quiet.
So then Egil and Höskuld took leave of one another, and father and son rode away home to Höskuldstadir, and spent the summer at home; and all is quiet.
Presently things were made ready for the feast at Höskuldstadir. No expense was spared, and the means were plentiful.
Presently things were made ready for the feast at Höskuldstadir. No expense was spared, and the means were plentiful.
The invited guests came on the day bespoken. The Borgarfjord folk were very many. Egil was there, and his son Thorstein.
The invited guests came on the day bespoken. The Borgarfjord folk were very many. Egil was there, and his son Thorstein.
The bride, too, came with them, and a select company from the countryside.
The bride, too, came with them, and a select company from the countryside.
So also Höskuld had gathered a large company of guests to receive them.
So also Höskuld had gathered a large company of guests to receive them.
The feast was a great and bounteous one. The guests were taken leave of with gifts.
The feast was a great and bounteous one. The guests were taken leave of with gifts.
At that time Olaf gave the sword Myrkjartan’s-Gift to Egil; and Egil was all smiles at the gift.
At that time Olaf gave the sword Myrkjartan’s-Gift to Egil; and Egil was all smiles at the gift.
No tidings befell. And so the folk went home.
No tidings befell. And so the folk went home.
Þau Óláfr ok Þorgerðr váru á Hǫskuldsstǫðum, ok takask þar ástir miklar.
Auðsætt var þat ǫllum mǫnnum, at hon var skǫrungr mikill, en fáskiptin hversdagliga;
en þat varð fram at koma, er Þorgerðr vildi, til hvers sem hon hlutaðisk.
Óláfr ok Þorgerðr váru ýmisst þann vetr á Hǫskuldsstǫðum eða með fóstra hans.
Um várit tók Óláfr við búi á Goddastǫðum.
Þat sumar tók Þórðr goddi sótt þá, er hann leiddi til bana.
Óláfr lét verpa haug eptir hann í nesi því, er gengr fram í Laxá, er Drafnarnes heitir; þar er garðr hjá ok heitir Haugsgarðr.
Síðan drífa menn at Óláfi ok gerðisk hann hǫfðingi mikill.
Hǫskuldr ǫfundaði þat ekki, því at hann vildi jafnan, at Óláfr væri at kvaddr ǫllum stórmálum.
Þat var bú risuligast í Laxárdal, er Óláfr átti.
Þeir váru brœðr tveir með Óláfi, er hvárrtveggi hét Án; var annarr kallaðr Án inn hvíti, en annarr Án svarti; Beinir inn sterki var inn þriði; þessir váru smiðar Óláfs ok allir hraustir menn.
Þorgerðr ok Óláfr áttu dóttur, er Þuríðr hét.
Olaf and Thorgerd were living at Höskuldstadir and they came to love one another dearly.
Olaf and Thorgerd were living at Höskuldstadir and they came to love one another dearly.
It was plain to be seen by all men that she was an able and high-tempered woman, but not meddlesome in everyday concerns.
It was plain to be seen by all men that she was an able and high-tempered woman, but not meddlesome in everyday concerns.
But that thing would be put through which Thorgerd set her heart on, whatever it might be that she took a hand in.
But that thing would be put through which Thorgerd set her heart on, whatever it might be that she took a hand in.
This winter Olaf and Thorgerd spent at Höskuldstadir or at his foster-father’s, by turns.
This winter Olaf and Thorgerd spent at Höskuldstadir or at his foster-father’s, by turns.
In the spring Olaf took over the property at Goddastadir.
In the spring Olaf took over the property at Goddastadir.
The following summer Thord Goddi was taken ill with a sickness which ended with his death.
The following summer Thord Goddi was taken ill with a sickness which ended with his death.
Olaf raised a mound over him on the headland that runs out into the Laxá and is called Drafnarnes. There is a farmstead close by which is called Haugsgard.
Olaf raised a mound over him on the headland that runs out into the Laxá and is called Drafnarnes. There is a farmstead close by which is called Haugsgard.
From this time on men began to draw together about Olaf on all sides, and he grew to be a great chieftain.
From this time on men began to draw together about Olaf on all sides, and he grew to be a great chieftain.
And Höskuld did not begrudge it, inasmuch as he ever wished to have Olaf called into consultation in all weighty concerns.
And Höskuld did not begrudge it, inasmuch as he ever wished to have Olaf called into consultation in all weighty concerns.
The estate which Olaf owned was the largest and best property in all Laxárdal.
The estate which Olaf owned was the largest and best property in all Laxárdal.
There were two brothers in Olaf’s service, both named Án, one being known as Án the White and the other Black Án. A third was Beinir the Strong. They were servingmen of Olaf’s, and all of them were bold and trusty men.
There were two brothers in Olaf’s service, both named Án, one being known as Án the White and the other Black Án. A third was Beinir the Strong. They were servingmen of Olaf’s, and all of them were bold and trusty men.
Thorgerd and Olaf had a daughter named Thurid.
Thorgerd and Olaf had a daughter named Thurid.
Lendur þær, er Hrappr hafði átt, lágu í auðn, sem fyrr var ritat.
Óláfi þóttu þær vel liggja; rœddi fyrir feðr sínum eitt sinn, at þeir myndi gera menn á fund Trefils með þeim ørendum, at Óláfr vill kaupa at hon (67) um lǫndin á Hrappsstǫðum ok aðrar eignir, þær er þar fylgja.
Þat var auðsótt, ok var þessu kaupi slungit, því at Trefill sá þat, at honum var betri ein kráka í hendi en tvær í skógi.
Var þat at kaupi með þeim, at Óláfr skyldi reiða þrjár merkr silfrs fyrir lǫndin, en þat var þó ekki jafnaðarkaup, því at þat váru víðar lendur ok fagrar ok mjǫk gagnauðgar; miklar laxveiðar ok selveiðar fylgðu þar; váru þar ok skógar miklir.
Nǫkkuru ofar en Hǫskuldsstaðir eru, fyrir norðan Laxá, þar var hǫggvit rjóðr í skóginum, ok þar var náliga til gǫrs at ganga, at þar safnaðisk saman fé Óláfs, hvárt sem veðr váru betri eða verri.
Þat var á einu hausti, at í því sama holti lét Óláfr bœ reisa ok af þeim viðum, er þar váru hǫggnir í skóginum, en sumt hafði hann af rekastrǫndum.
Þessi bœr var risuligr.
Húsin váru auð um vetrinn.
Um várit eptir fór Óláfr þangat byggðum ok lét áðr saman reka fé sitt, ok var þat mikill fjǫlði orðinn, því at engi maðr var þá auðgari at kvikfé í Breiðafirði.
Óláfr sendir nú orð feðr sínum, at hann stœði úti ok sæi ferð hans, þá er hann fór á þenna nýja bœ, ok hefði orðheill fyrir; Hǫskuldr kvað svá vera skyldu.
Óláfr skipar nú til, lætr reka undan fram sauðfé þat, er skjarrast var; þá fór búsmali þar næst; síðan váru rekin geldneyti; klyfjahross fóru í síðara lagi.
Svá var skipat mǫnnum með fé (68) þessu, at þat skyldi engan krók rísta.
Var þá ferðarbroddrinn kominn á þenna bœ inn nýja, er Óláfr reið ór garði af Goddastǫðum, ok var hvergi hlið í milli.
Hǫskuldr stóð úti með heimamenn sína.
Þá mælti Hǫskuldr, at Óláfr, sonr hans, skyldi þar velkominn ok með tíma á þenna inn nýja bólstað, - “ok nær er þat mínu hugboði, at þetta gangi eptir, at lengi sé hans nafn uppi.”
The lands which Hrapp had owned were lying waste, as was before written.
The lands which Hrapp had owned were lying waste, as was before written.
They seemed to Olaf to be lying (77) convenient to his hand, and he talked the matter over with his father on a certain occasion, that they would do well to send someone to speak to Trefil and let him know that Olaf would like to buy the lands of Hrappstadir from him, together with any other possessions included in the estate.
They seemed to Olaf to be lying (77) convenient to his hand, and he talked the matter over with his father on a certain occasion, that they would do well to send someone to speak to Trefil and let him know that Olaf would like to buy the lands of Hrappstadir from him, together with any other possessions included in the estate.
This was easily arranged, and the sale was bound with a formal bargain, for Trefil could see that “better for him was one crow in the hand than two in the wood.”
This was easily arranged, and the sale was bound with a formal bargain, for Trefil could see that “better for him was one crow in the hand than two in the wood.”
The bargain between them was that Olaf was to pay three marks of silver for the lands; yet this was after all not a fair price, for the lands were wide and fair and very productive, and attached to them were valuable salmon fisheries and seal fisheries, besides large woodlands.
The bargain between them was that Olaf was to pay three marks of silver for the lands; yet this was after all not a fair price, for the lands were wide and fair and very productive, and attached to them were valuable salmon fisheries and seal fisheries, besides large woodlands.
A little farther up than Höskuldstadir lies, on the north of the Laxá river, there had been cut a clearing in the woodland, which lay near to the grazing-grounds; so that Olaf’s stock habitually gathered there at all seasons, in good weather and bad.
A little farther up than Höskuldstadir lies, on the north of the Laxá river, there had been cut a clearing in the woodland, which lay near to the grazing-grounds; so that Olaf’s stock habitually gathered there at all seasons, in good weather and bad.
On a certain autumn Olaf had farm buildings put up in this same clear space; built of the timber that had been cut in these woods, helped out in part with driftwood which he gathered on his beaches.
On a certain autumn Olaf had farm buildings put up in this same clear space; built of the timber that had been cut in these woods, helped out in part with driftwood which he gathered on his beaches.
This farmstead was large and sightly.
This farmstead was large and sightly.
The houses were left vacant over winter.
The houses were left vacant over winter.
Olaf moved in there the following spring. But before doing so he had all his stock rounded up, and it had now grown to be a great number; for no man in all Breidafjord was at that time wealthier in livestock than he.
Olaf moved in there the following spring. But before doing so he had all his stock rounded up, and it had now grown to be a great number; for no man in all Breidafjord was at that time wealthier in livestock than he.
Then he sent word to his father, asking him to take a stand out-ofdoors, where he could view his passing on his way to this new homestead and could say a word of good omen for him. Höskuld promised to do so.
Then he sent word to his father, asking him to take a stand out-ofdoors, where he could view his passing on his way to this new homestead and could say a word of good omen for him. Höskuld promised to do so.
Olaf now makes ready. He let the sheep go on ahead, as they were the shyest and fleetest; then the milch cattle came next after; then the younger cattle were turned loose; the packhorses came on with the last.
Olaf now makes ready. He let the sheep go on ahead, as they were the shyest and fleetest; then the milch cattle came next after; then the younger cattle were turned loose; the packhorses came on with the last.
There were men set to (78)ride with these cattle and keep them moving on a straight trail all along the line.
There were men set to (78)ride with these cattle and keep them moving on a straight trail all along the line.
And the head of the drive had reached the new farmyard by the time when Olaf rode out of the yard at Goddastadir, and there was no break in the line between.
And the head of the drive had reached the new farmyard by the time when Olaf rode out of the yard at Goddastadir, and there was no break in the line between.
Höskuld was standing out-of-doors together with the other folks on the place.
Höskuld was standing out-of-doors together with the other folks on the place.
Then Höskuld spoke up, and wished his son Olaf a good and happy home-coming to this new habitation of his. “And it comes forcibly into my mind that this will come to pass, and that his name will long be kept alive.”
Then Höskuld spoke up, and wished his son Olaf a good and happy home-coming to this new habitation of his. “And it comes forcibly into my mind that this will come to pass, and that his name will long be kept alive.”
Óláfr gengr þá at durunum ok leggr spjótinu til hans.
Hrappr tekr hǫndum báðum um fal spjótsins ok snarar út af, svá at þegar brotnar skaptit.
Óláfr vill þá renna á Hrapp, en Hrappr fór þar niðr, sem hann var kominn; skilr þar með þeim; hafði Óláfr skapt, en Hrappr spjótit.
Eptir þetta binda þeir Óláfr inn nautin ok ganga heim síðan.
Óláfr sagði nú húskarli, at hann mun honum eigi sakar á gefa þessi orðasemi.
Um morgininn eptir ferr Óláfr heiman ok þar til, er Hrappr hafði dysjaðr verit, ok lætr þar til grafa.
Hrappr var þá enn ófúinn.
Þar finnr Óláfr spjót sitt.
Síðan lætr hann gera bál; er Hrappr brenndr á báli, ok er aska hans flutt á sjá út.
Heðan frá verðr engum manni mein at aptrgǫngu Hrapps.
Olaf then went forward into the doorway and laid at him with the spear.
Olaf then went forward into the doorway and laid at him with the spear.
Hrapp gripped the spearshank with both hands and bent it to one side so that the spear shaft broke off short.
Hrapp gripped the spearshank with both hands and bent it to one side so that the spear shaft broke off short.
Olaf then tried to rush in on him, but Hrapp went right down into the ground where he had been standing. So they parted. Olaf had the shaft and Hrapp had the spearhead.
Olaf then tried to rush in on him, but Hrapp went right down into the ground where he had been standing. So they parted. Olaf had the shaft and Hrapp had the spearhead.
After this Olaf and his man finished tying in the cattle and then went home.
After this Olaf and his man finished tying in the cattle and then went home.
Olaf then told the farmhand that he would not hold this talking of his against him.
Olaf then told the farmhand that he would not hold this talking of his against him.
Next morning Olaf left home and went to the place where Hrapp had been buried under a heap of stones, and set men to digging.
Next morning Olaf left home and went to the place where Hrapp had been buried under a heap of stones, and set men to digging.
Hrapp was found still unrotted.
Hrapp was found still unrotted.
There Olaf found his spear.
There Olaf found his spear.
After that he had a funeral pyre made. Hrapp was burned on the pyre, and his ashes were carried out to sea.
After that he had a funeral pyre made. Hrapp was burned on the pyre, and his ashes were carried out to sea.
From that time forth no man was molested by Hrapp’s walking again. (80)
From that time forth no man was molested by Hrapp’s walking again. (80)
Ferr nú lausinginn heim ok sitr í búi sínu rétt sem áðr.
Litlu síðar ferr Þorleikr Hǫskuldsson at ráði fǫður síns með nǫkkura menn á bœ (71) lausingjans, taka hann ok drepa,
en Þorleikr eignaði sér fé þat allt ok fǫður sínum, er lausinginn hafði grœtt.
Þetta spurði Hrútr, ok líkar illa ok sonum hans.
Þeir váru margir þroskaðir, ok þótti sá frændabálkr óárenniligr.
Hrútr leitaði laga um mál þetta, hversu fara ætti; ok er þetta mál var rannsakat af lǫgmǫnnum, þá gekk þeim Hrúti lítt í hag,
ok mátu menn þat mikils, er Hrútr hafði sett lausingjann niðr á óleyfðri jǫrðu Hǫskulds, ok hafði hann grœtt þar fé;
hafði Þorleikr drepit hann á eignum þeira feðga.
Unði Hrútr illa við sinn hlut, ok var þó samt.
Eptir þetta lætr Þorleikr bœ gera at landamœri þeira Hrúts ok Hǫskulds, ok heitir þat á Kambsnesi.
Þar bjó Þorleikr um hríð, sem fyrr var sagt.
Þorleikr gat son við konu sinni.
Sá sveinn var vatni ausinn, ok nafn gefit, ok kallaðr Bolli; var hann inn vænligsti maðr snimma.
So he goes home and goes on living on his place just as before.
So he goes home and goes on living on his place just as before.
After a little, Thorleik Höskuldson, by the advice of his father, took a few men with him and went to the freedman’s place and took him and killed him,
After a little, Thorleik Höskuldson, by the advice of his father, took a few men with him and went to the freedman’s place and took him and killed him,
and Thorleik took over, in his own and his father’s name, all the property which the freedman had got together.
and Thorleik took over, in his own and his father’s name, all the property which the freedman had got together.
Hrut heard of all this and he took it quite ill, he and his sons.
Hrut heard of all this and he took it quite ill, he and his sons.
Many of them were grown men, and that parcel of kinsmen looked quite formidable.
Many of them were grown men, and that parcel of kinsmen looked quite formidable.
Hrut took legal advice on this matter, what had best be done about it, and when the case had been inquired into by the Lawman, the upshot of it was little to Hrut’s liking.
Hrut took legal advice on this matter, what had best be done about it, and when the case had been inquired into by the Lawman, the upshot of it was little to Hrut’s liking.
Much was made of the point that Hrut had settled the freedman without leave on ground belonging to Höskuld, where he had bred his livestock.
Much was made of the point that Hrut had settled the freedman without leave on ground belonging to Höskuld, where he had bred his livestock.
So that Thorleik had killed him on ground belonging to himself and his father.
So that Thorleik had killed him on ground belonging to himself and his father.
Hrut was quite sore about it.
Hrut was quite sore about it.
Soon afterward Thorleik built up a farm next the boundary line between Hrut’s and Höskuld’s lands; and the place is called At Kambsnes.
Soon afterward Thorleik built up a farm next the boundary line between Hrut’s and Höskuld’s lands; and the place is called At Kambsnes.
Thorleik lived there for a while, as has been spoken of before.
Thorleik lived there for a while, as has been spoken of before.
Thorleik had a son by his wife.
Thorleik had a son by his wife.
This boy was affused with water and given a name and called Bolli. He was an uncommonly fine man from early youth. (82)
This boy was affused with water and given a name and called Bolli. He was an uncommonly fine man from early youth. (82)
Eptir þetta andaðisk Hǫskuldr.
Þat þótti mikill (73) skaði, fyrst at upphafi sonum hans ok ǫllum tengðamǫnnum þeira ok vinum.
Synir hans láta verpa haug virðuligan eptir hann.
Lítit var fé borit í haug hjá honum.
En er því var lokit, þá taka þeir brœðr tal um þat, at þeir muni efna til erfis eptir fǫður sinn, því at þat var þá tízka í þat mund.
Þá mælti Óláfr: “Svá lízk mér, sem ekki megi svá skjótt at þessi veizlu snúa, ef hon skal svá virðulig verða, sem oss þœtti sóma;
er nú mjǫk á liðit haustit, en ekki auðvelt at afla fanga til;
mun ok flestum mǫnnum þykkja torvelt, þeim er langt eigu til at sœkja, á haustdegi, ok vís ván, at margir komi eigi, þeir er vér vildim helzt at kœmi.
Mun ek ok nú til þess bjóðask í sumar á þingi at bjóða mǫnnum til boðs þessa;
mun ek leggja fram kostnað at þriðjungi til veizlunnar.”
Shortly after this, Höskuld died.
Shortly after this, Höskuld died.
This came as a great loss, in the first place to his sons, but also to all his kinsfolk and their friends and connections.
This came as a great loss, in the first place to his sons, but also to all his kinsfolk and their friends and connections.
His sons raised a worthy grave-mound to his memory.
His sons raised a worthy grave-mound to his memory.
There was but little treasure buried in the mound with him.
There was but little treasure buried in the mound with him.
When these things were finished the brothers talked over the matter of a funeral feast in memory of their father, for such was the custom in those times.
When these things were finished the brothers talked over the matter of a funeral feast in memory of their father, for such was the custom in those times.
Then Olaf spoke up and said, “It seems to me that we shall not be ready with this banquet right soon if it is to be made such a memorable feast as our good name would seem to call for.
Then Olaf spoke up and said, “It seems to me that we shall not be ready with this banquet right soon if it is to be made such a memorable feast as our good name would seem to call for.
The fall is already far gone, and it will be no small matter to supply what is wanted.
The fall is already far gone, and it will be no small matter to supply what is wanted.
Also it is likely to look like something of a hardship for such of the folks as live at a distance to come so far in the fall of the year.
Also it is likely to look like something of a hardship for such of the folks as live at a distance to come so far in the fall of the year.
It is fairly to be counted on that many would not be coming of those whom we most wish to see here.
It is fairly to be counted on that many would not be coming of those whom we most wish to see here.
Now I will (84) undertake to invite the folks to this feast at the Thingmeeting next summer, and I will bear one third of the cost of the banquet.”
Now I will (84) undertake to invite the folks to this feast at the Thingmeeting next summer, and I will bear one third of the cost of the banquet.”
Ok er Óláfr lauk sínu máli, þá var góðr rómr at gọrr, ok þótti þetta ørendi stórum skǫruligt.
Ok er Oláfr kom heim til búðar, sagði hann brœðrum sínum þessa tilætlan.
Þeim fannsk fátt um ok þótti œrit mikit við haft.
Eptir þingit ríða þeir brœðr heim.
Líðr nú sumarit.
Búask þeir brœðr við veizlunni; leggr Óláfr til óhneppiliga at þriðjungi, ok er veizlan búin með inum beztum fǫngum;
var mikit til aflat þessar veizlu, því at þat var ætlat, at fjǫlmennt myndi koma.
Ok er at veizlu kemr, er þat sagt, at flestir virðingamenn koma, þeir sem heitit hǫfðu.
Var þat svá mikit fjǫlmenni, at þat er sǫgn manna flestra, at eigi skyrti níu hundruð.
Þessi hefir ǫnnur veizla fjǫlmennust verit á Íslandi, en sú ǫnnur, er Hjaltasynir gerðu erfi eptir fǫður sinn; þar váru tólf hundruð.
Þessi veizla var in skǫruligsta at ǫllu, ok fengu þeir (75) brœðr mikinn sóma, ok var Óláfr mest fyrirmaðr.
Óláfr gekk til móts við báða brœðr sína um fégjafar; var ok gefit ǫllum virðingamǫnnum.
Ok er flestir menn váru í brottu farnir, þá víkr Óláfr til máls við Þorleik, bróður sinn, ok mælti: “Svá er, frændi, sem þér er kunnigt, at með okkr hefir verit ekki mart;
nú vilda ek til þess mæla, at vit betraðim frændsemi okkra;
veit ek, at þér mislíkar, er ek tók við gripum þeim, er faðir minn gaf mér á deyjanda degi;
nú ef þú þykkisk af þessu vanhaldinn, þá vil ek þat vinna til heils hugar þíns, at fóstra son þinn, ok er sá kallaðr æ minni maðr, er ǫðrum fóstrar barn.”
And when Olaf closed his address there was loud applause, and this whole thing was made much of, as a magnificent (86) affair.
And when Olaf closed his address there was loud applause, and this whole thing was made much of, as a magnificent (86) affair.
When Olaf got back home to the booth he told his brothers of this arrangement.
When Olaf got back home to the booth he told his brothers of this arrangement.
They did not take to it much. They thought it overdone.
They did not take to it much. They thought it overdone.
After the Thing the brothers rode back home.
After the Thing the brothers rode back home.
The brothers duly made ready for the feast. Olaf put in his share of a full third part and the feast was furnished with the best of everything.
The brothers duly made ready for the feast. Olaf put in his share of a full third part and the feast was furnished with the best of everything.
Large provision was made for this funeral feast, for it was expected that a great number of guests would come.
Large provision was made for this funeral feast, for it was expected that a great number of guests would come.
And when the feast came on it is said that nearly all those men of any consequence came to it who had accepted the invitation.
And when the feast came on it is said that nearly all those men of any consequence came to it who had accepted the invitation.
The number of guests was so large that it is commonly said and believed that they were not short of nine hundred.30
The number of guests was so large that it is commonly said and believed that they were not short of nine hundred.30
This has been the second largest banquet, in point of numbers, that has been had on Iceland; the largest being the funeral feast given by the Hjaltasons in memory of their father, where there were twelve hundred (1440) guests present.
This has been the second largest banquet, in point of numbers, that has been had on Iceland; the largest being the funeral feast given by the Hjaltasons in memory of their father, where there were twelve hundred (1440) guests present.
This funeral feast was a most magnificent one in all respects, and it brought great renown to the three brothers, and most of all to Olaf.
This funeral feast was a most magnificent one in all respects, and it brought great renown to the three brothers, and most of all to Olaf.
Olaf met both his brothers half-way in the giving of gifts; and gifts were given to all the best people.
Olaf met both his brothers half-way in the giving of gifts; and gifts were given to all the best people.
Now, when the greater number of the guests were gone, Olaf went to his brother Thorleik for a talk and said to him, “It so happens, as you are aware, my brother, that we have not been right good friends.
Now, when the greater number of the guests were gone, Olaf went to his brother Thorleik for a talk and said to him, “It so happens, as you are aware, my brother, that we have not been right good friends.
Now I would like to say a word for the bettering of our friendship.
Now I would like to say a word for the bettering of our friendship.
I know it has annoyed you that I took the gift of heirlooms which my father gave me at the time of his death.
I know it has annoyed you that I took the gift of heirlooms which my father gave me at the time of his death.
Now, if you still feel that you were put upon in this matter, I am willing to do so much to please you that I will undertake to foster your son; and he is ever counted the lesser man who fosters another’s child.”
Now, if you still feel that you were put upon in this matter, I am willing to do so much to please you that I will undertake to foster your son; and he is ever counted the lesser man who fosters another’s child.”
Kjartan Ólafsson vex upp heima í Hjarðarholti.
Hann var allra manna fríðastr, þeira er fœzk hafa á Íslandi; (77) hann var mikilleitr ok vel farinn í andliti, manna bezt eygðr ok ljóslitaðr; mikit hár hafði hann ok fagrt sem silki, ok fell með lokkum, mikill maðr ok sterkr, eptir sem verit hafði Egill, móðurfaðir hans, eða Þórólfr.
Kjartan var hverjum manni betr á sik kominn, svá at allir undruðusk, þeir er sá hann;
betr var hann ok vígr en flestir menn aðrir;
vel var hann hagr ok syndr manna bezt;
allar íþróttir hafði hann mjǫk umfram aðra menn;
hverjum manni var hann lítillátari ok vinsæll, svá at hvert barn unni honum; hann var léttúðigr ok mildr af fé.
Óláfr unni mest Kjartani allra barna sinna.
Bolli fóstbróðir hans var mikill maðr; hann gekk næst Kjartani um allar íþróttir ok atgørvi;
sterkr var hann ok fríðr sýnum, kurteisligr ok inn hermannligsti, mikill skartsmaðr.
Þeir unnusk mikit fóstbrœðr.
Sitr Óláfr nú at búi sínu, svá at vetrum skipti eigi allfám.
Kjartan Olafson grew up at home at Hjardarholt.
Kjartan Olafson grew up at home at Hjardarholt.
He was the most beautiful of all men that have been born in Iceland. He was full-featured and fair of face, with the most beautiful eyes, and a blond complexion. He had long hair, and fine as silk, falling in locks; a tall man and of great strength, much after the fashion of Egil, his mother’s father, or of his uncle Thorolf.
He was the most beautiful of all men that have been born in Iceland. He was full-featured and fair of face, with the most beautiful eyes, and a blond complexion. He had long hair, and fine as silk, falling in locks; a tall man and of great strength, much after the fashion of Egil, his mother’s father, or of his uncle Thorolf.
Kjartan was a man of uncommonly pleasing figure and carriage, so much so that everyone who saw him was struck with wonder and admiration.
Kjartan was a man of uncommonly pleasing figure and carriage, so much so that everyone who saw him was struck with wonder and admiration.
He was also more skilled at arms than almost any other man.
He was also more skilled at arms than almost any other man.
He was a cunning and dextrous workman with tools and an uncommonly good swimmer.
He was a cunning and dextrous workman with tools and an uncommonly good swimmer.
He greatly surpassed all others in all manner of manly sports.
He greatly surpassed all others in all manner of manly sports.
He was of all men the most unassuming, gentle and kindly, so that every child loved him. He was of a merry temper, debonair and open-handed.
He was of all men the most unassuming, gentle and kindly, so that every child loved him. He was of a merry temper, debonair and open-handed.
Olaf loved Kjartan the best of all his children.
Olaf loved Kjartan the best of all his children.
His fosterbrother Bolli was also a large man. He came next after Kjartan in all feats of strength and courage.
His fosterbrother Bolli was also a large man. He came next after Kjartan in all feats of strength and courage.
He was a strong man and fair to look upon, well-mannered and of a notably warlike bearing, much given to fine clothes and weapons.
He was a strong man and fair to look upon, well-mannered and of a notably warlike bearing, much given to fine clothes and weapons.
The two foster-brothers were fond of each other.
The two foster-brothers were fond of each other.
So now Olaf is sitting at home on his estate while years come and go.
So now Olaf is sitting at home on his estate while years come and go.
Þorgerðr kvað sér lítit vera um þat, en Óláfr kvazk ráða mundu.
Hann kaupir skip, er uppi stóð vestr í Vaðli.
Óláfr fór útan um sumarit ok kemr skipi sínu við Hǫrðaland.
Þar bjó sá maðr skammt á land upp, er hét Geirmundr gnýr, ríkr maðr ok auðigr ok víkingr mikill;
ódældarmaðr var hann ok hafði nú sezk um kyrrt ok var hirðmaðr Hákonar jarls ins (78) ríka.
Geirmundr ferr til skips ok kannask brátt við Óláf, því at hann hafði heyrt hans getit;
Geirmundr býðr Óláfi til sín með svá marga menn sem hann vildi; þat þiggr Óláfr ok ferr til vistar með sétta mann.
Hásetar Óláfs vistask þar um Hǫrðaland.
Geirmundr veitir Óláfi vel.
Þar var bœr risuligr ok mart manna; var þar gleði mikil um vetrinn.
En er á leið vetrinn, sagði Óláfr Geirmundi skyn á um ørendi sín, at hann vill afla sér húsaviðar; kvazk þykkja mikit undir, at hann fengi gott viðaval.
Geirmundr svarar: “Hákon jarl á bezta mǫrk, ok veit ek víst, ef þú kemr á hans fund, at þér mun sú innan handar, því at jarl fagnar vel þeim mǫnnum, er eigi eru jafnvel menntir sem þú, Óláfr, ef hann sœkja heim.”
Thorgerd told him she had no great mind for it, but Olaf said he would have it so anyway.
Thorgerd told him she had no great mind for it, but Olaf said he would have it so anyway.
So he bought him a ship which had been laid up over the winter out west at the Vadil.
So he bought him a ship which had been laid up over the winter out west at the Vadil.
Olaf set sail that summer and brought his ship to land in Hördaland.
Olaf set sail that summer and brought his ship to land in Hördaland.
In this place, a little way back up from the shore, lived a man by the name of Geirmund Gnyr (Geirmund the Grumbler); a mighty man and rich, and a great viking.
In this place, a little way back up from the shore, lived a man by the name of Geirmund Gnyr (Geirmund the Grumbler); a mighty man and rich, and a great viking.
Án ill-tempered and contentious man he was, but he had now settled down and was attached to the court of Earl Hakon the Great.
Án ill-tempered and contentious man he was, but he had now settled down and was attached to the court of Earl Hakon the Great.
Geirmund came down to meet the ship and very soon struck up an acquaintance with Olaf, for he knew of him by report.
Geirmund came down to meet the ship and very soon struck up an acquaintance with Olaf, for he knew of him by report.
Geirmund asked Olaf to come home with him as his guest with as many of his men as he wished to bring. Olaf accepted, and took lodgings with him, together with five men of the ship’s company.
Geirmund asked Olaf to come home with him as his guest with as many of his men as he wished to bring. Olaf accepted, and took lodgings with him, together with five men of the ship’s company.
The rest of Olaf’s crew found lodgings here and there about Hördaland.
The rest of Olaf’s crew found lodgings here and there about Hördaland.
Geirmund entertained Olaf well.
Geirmund entertained Olaf well.
It was a large and fine farmstead, with a numerous household, and there was a merry time during the winter.
It was a large and fine farmstead, with a numerous household, and there was a merry time during the winter.
When the winter was getting late Olaf told Geirmund what was the business on which he had come; that he was looking for house-timber. And he added that he was much concerned to find choice timber.
When the winter was getting late Olaf told Geirmund what was the business on which he had come; that he was looking for house-timber. And he added that he was much concerned to find choice timber.
Geirmund told him, “Earl Hakon owns the very finest of forests, and (91) I am quite sure that if you go to see him it will be placed at your disposal; for the earl is in the habit of doing favors to men of less quality than you, Olaf, if they come to see him.”
Geirmund told him, “Earl Hakon owns the very finest of forests, and (91) I am quite sure that if you go to see him it will be placed at your disposal; for the earl is in the habit of doing favors to men of less quality than you, Olaf, if they come to see him.”
Þat sumar lét Óláfr gera eldhús í Hjarðarholti, meira ok betra en menn hefði fyrr sét.
Váru þar markaðar ágætligar sǫgur á þilviðinum ok svá á ræfrinu; var þat svá vel smíðat, at þá þótti miklu skrautligra, er eigi váru tjǫldin uppi.
Geirmundr var fáskiptinn hversdagla, óþyðr við flesta;
en hann var svá búinn jafnan, at hann hafði skarlatskyrtil rauðan ok gráfeld ýztan ok bjarnskinnshúfu á hǫfði, sverð í hendi;
þat var mikit vápn ok gott, tannhjǫlt at; ekki var þar borit silfr á, en brandrinn var hvass, ok beið hvergi ryð á.
Þetta sverð kallaði hann Fótbít ok lét þat aldregi hendi firr ganga.
Geirmundr hafði skamma hríð þar verit, áðr hann felldi hug til Þuríðar, dóttur Óláfs, ok vekr hann bónorð við Óláf, en hann veitti afsvǫr.
Síðan berr Geirmundr fé undir Þorgerði, til þess at hann næði ráðinu.
Hon tók við fénu, því at eigi var smám fram lagt.
Síðan vekr Þorgerðr þetta mál við Óláf; hon segir ok sína ætlan, at dóttir þeira muni eigi betr verða gefin, - “því at hann er garpr mikill, auðigr ok stórlátr.”
(92) That summer Olaf built a dwelling-house at Hjardarholt, larger and better than any that men had seen.
(92) That summer Olaf built a dwelling-house at Hjardarholt, larger and better than any that men had seen.
Famous old legends were set forth on the wainscoting and also on the roof-timbers. It was of such excellent workmanship that the whole seemed even more sightly when the tapestries were not hung.
Famous old legends were set forth on the wainscoting and also on the roof-timbers. It was of such excellent workmanship that the whole seemed even more sightly when the tapestries were not hung.
Geirmund was not a companionable fellow everyday, rather unfriendly with most folks.
Geirmund was not a companionable fellow everyday, rather unfriendly with most folks.
He wore habitually a red kirtle of brocade below and a gray fur cloak over it, with a bear-skin cap on his head. He carried a sword.
He wore habitually a red kirtle of brocade below and a gray fur cloak over it, with a bear-skin cap on his head. He carried a sword.
It was a great weapon, and there was no silver work about it, but the blade was sharp and wide and spotless.
It was a great weapon, and there was no silver work about it, but the blade was sharp and wide and spotless.
This sword he called Fatbit, and he never let it go out of his hands.
This sword he called Fatbit, and he never let it go out of his hands.
Geirmund had been there but a little while before he fell in love with Thurid, Olaf’s daughter. He opened his suit to Olaf, but he gave him a refusal.
Geirmund had been there but a little while before he fell in love with Thurid, Olaf’s daughter. He opened his suit to Olaf, but he gave him a refusal.
Then Geirmund made valuable presents to Thorgerd, with a view to winning his suit.
Then Geirmund made valuable presents to Thorgerd, with a view to winning his suit.
She took the valuables, for there was nothing small about it.
She took the valuables, for there was nothing small about it.
Presently Thorgerd brought up this proposal to Olaf. She also gave her own opinion, that their daughter could not well be married to better advantage; “for he is a bold and capable man, rich and generous.”
Presently Thorgerd brought up this proposal to Olaf. She also gave her own opinion, that their daughter could not well be married to better advantage; “for he is a bold and capable man, rich and generous.”
Kómu þær engu á leið við Óláf, því at hann var um alla hluti samningarmaðr;
kvað ok mey skyldu eptir vera, þar til er hon kynni nǫkkurn fárnað.
En at skilnaði þeira Geirmundar gaf Óláfr honum kaupskipit með ǫllum reiða; Geirmundr þakkar honum vel ok sagði gefit allstórmannliga.
Síðan býr hann skipit ok siglir út ór Laxárósi léttan landnyrðing, ok fellr veðrit, er þeir koma út at eyjum.
Hann liggr út við Øxnaey hálfan mánuð, svá at honum gefr eigi í brott.
Í þenna tíma átti Óláfr heimanfǫr at annask um reka sína.
Síðan kallar Þuríðr, dóttir hans, til sín húskarla; bað þá fara með sér.
Hon hafði ok með sér meyna; tíu váru þau saman.
Hon lætr setja fram ferju, er Óláfr átti.
Þuríðr bað þá sigla ok róa út eptir Hvammsfirði.
Ok er þau koma út at eyjum, bað hon þá skjóta báti útbyrðis, er stóð á ferjunni.
Þuríðr sté á bátinn ok tveir menn aðrir, en hon bað þá gæta skips, er eptir váru, þar til er hon kœmi aptr.
Hon tók meyna í faðm sér ok bað þá róa yfir strauminn, þar til er þau mætti ná skipinu.
Hon greip upp nafar ór stafnlokinu ok seldi í hendr fǫrunaut sínum ǫðrum; bað hann ganga á knarrarbátinn ok bora, svá at ófœrr væri, ef þeir þyrfti skjótt til at taka.
Síðan lét hon sik flytja á land ok hafði meyna í faðmi sér; þat var í sólarupprás.
Hon gengr út eptir bryggju ok svá í skipit.
Allir menn váru í svefni.
Hon gekk at húðfati því, er Geirmundr svaf (82) í.
Sverðit Fótbítr hekk á hnykkistafnum.
Þuríðr setr nú meyna Gró í húðfatit, en greip upp Fótbít ok hafði með sér; síðan gengr hon af skipinu ok til fǫrunauta sinna.
Nú tekr mærin at gráta.
Við þat vaknar Geirmundr ok sezk upp ok kennir barnit ok þykkisk vita, af hverjum rifjum vera mun.
Hann sprettr upp ok vill þrífa sverðit ok missir, sem ván var; gengr út á borð ok sér, at þau róa frá skipinu.
Geirmundr kallar á menn sina ok bað þá hlaupa í bátinn ok róa eptir þeim.
Þeir gera svá, ok er þeir eru skammt komnir, þá finna þeir, at sjár kolblár fellr at þeim; snúa nú aptr til skips.
Þá kallar Geirmundr á Þuríði ok bað hana aptr snúa ok fá honum sverðit Fótbít, - “en tak við mey þinni ok haf heðan með henni fé svá mikit, sem þú vill.”
They got nowhere with Olaf, for he was in all things a man of peace and compromise.
They got nowhere with Olaf, for he was in all things a man of peace and compromise.
He also said the little girl had best be left behind until she should find some suitable means of going.
He also said the little girl had best be left behind until she should find some suitable means of going.
But when they came to parting, Olaf gave Geirmund his trading-vessel. And he then got the ship ready and thanked him as he ought, and said it was a lordly gift.
But when they came to parting, Olaf gave Geirmund his trading-vessel. And he then got the ship ready and thanked him as he ought, and said it was a lordly gift.
He sailed out of the Laxá rivermouth with a light northeast breeze, but the wind died down by the time they got as far out as the Islands.
He sailed out of the Laxá rivermouth with a light northeast breeze, but the wind died down by the time they got as far out as the Islands.
So they lay by at Oxney for a fortnight, unable to get away.
So they lay by at Oxney for a fortnight, unable to get away.
At this time Olaf had an errand away from home to look after the driftwood on his beaches.
At this time Olaf had an errand away from home to look after the driftwood on his beaches.
Then presently his daughter Thurid called up some of the workmen and had them go with her.
Then presently his daughter Thurid called up some of the workmen and had them go with her.
She also took with her the little (95) girl. There were ten of them altogether.
She also took with her the little (95) girl. There were ten of them altogether.
She had them put out a lugger belonging to Olaf.
She had them put out a lugger belonging to Olaf.
Thurid told them to make for the outer waters of the Hvammsfjord, by oar and sail;
Thurid told them to make for the outer waters of the Hvammsfjord, by oar and sail;
and when they got out to the Islands she had them launch a skiff carried by the lugger.
and when they got out to the Islands she had them launch a skiff carried by the lugger.
Thurid got into the skiff, and two men with her, and told those who were left behind to take care of the lugger till she got back.
Thurid got into the skiff, and two men with her, and told those who were left behind to take care of the lugger till she got back.
She took the little girl in her arms and told them to row across the channel to where they would find the ship.
She took the little girl in her arms and told them to row across the channel to where they would find the ship.
She picked up an auger out of the boat and handed it to one of her men and told him to get into the ships-boat of the trading-vessel and bore holes in it so as to make it useless in case they had to take to it in a hurry.
She picked up an auger out of the boat and handed it to one of her men and told him to get into the ships-boat of the trading-vessel and bore holes in it so as to make it useless in case they had to take to it in a hurry.
Then she had them put her ashore, and she still carried the little girl in her arms. This was about sunrise.
Then she had them put her ashore, and she still carried the little girl in her arms. This was about sunrise.
She went out across the gangplank.
She went out across the gangplank.
All the men aboard were asleep.
All the men aboard were asleep.
She went to the berth in which Geirmund was sleeping.
She went to the berth in which Geirmund was sleeping.
The sword Fotbit was hanging from the timbers to which the hammock was slung.
The sword Fotbit was hanging from the timbers to which the hammock was slung.
Thurid then put the little Gro in Geirmund’s hammock and picked up Fotbit and took it along. After that she got off the ship and back to her company.
Thurid then put the little Gro in Geirmund’s hammock and picked up Fotbit and took it along. After that she got off the ship and back to her company.
Now the little girl began to cry.
Now the little girl began to cry.
At this Geirmund awoke and sat up and saw the child, and he guessed right away what it was all about.
At this Geirmund awoke and sat up and saw the child, and he guessed right away what it was all about.
He jumped up and reached for the sword, and missed it of course. Then he got to the rail and saw them rowing away.
He jumped up and reached for the sword, and missed it of course. Then he got to the rail and saw them rowing away.
Geirmund called out his men and told them to get into the boat and row after them.
Geirmund called out his men and told them to get into the boat and row after them.
So they did, and when they had got started they find that the sea is pouring in on them, and so they turned back to the ship.
So they did, and when they had got started they find that the sea is pouring in on them, and so they turned back to the ship.
Then Geirmund called to Thurid and told her to come back and bring him Fotbit, his sword, “and get your girl; and take as much goods along with her as you like.”
Then Geirmund called to Thurid and told her to come back and bring him Fotbit, his sword, “and get your girl; and take as much goods along with her as you like.”
Óláfr Hǫskuldsson sat í búi sínu í miklum sóma, sem fyrr var ritat.
Guðmundr hét maðr Sǫlmundarson; hann bjó í Ásbjarnarnesi norðr í Víðidal.
Guðmundr var auðigr maðr; hann bað Þuríðar ok gat hana með miklu fé.
Þuríðr var vitr kona ok skapstór ok skǫrungr mikill.
Hallr hét sonr þeira ok Barði, Steinn ok Steingrímr; Guðrún hét dóttir þeira ok Ólǫf.
Þorbjǫrg, dóttir Óláfs, var kvenna vænst ok þreklig; hon var kǫlluð Þorbjǫrg digra ok var gipt vestr í Vatnsfjǫrð Ásgeiri Knattarsyni; hann var gǫfugr maðr.
Þeira sonr var Kjartan, faðir Þorvalds, fǫður Þórðar, fǫður Snorra, fǫður Þorvalds.
Þaðan er komit Vatnsfirðingakyn.
Síðan átti Þorbjǫrgu Vermundr Þorgrímsson; þeira dóttir var Þorfinna, er átti Þorsteinn Kuggason.
(84) Bergþóra Óláfsdóttir var gipt vestr í Djúpafjǫrð Þórhalli goða, syni Odda Ýrarsonar.
Þeira sonr var Kjartan, faðir Smið-Sturlu; hann var fóstri Þórðar Gilssonar, fǫður Sturlu.
Olaf Höskuldson was now sitting at home on his estate, in honor and renown, as before was written.
Olaf Höskuldson was now sitting at home on his estate, in honor and renown, as before was written.
Gudmund Solmundarson was the name of a certain man who lived at Asbjarnarnes, in the Vididal up north.
Gudmund Solmundarson was the name of a certain man who lived at Asbjarnarnes, in the Vididal up north.
This Gudmund was a rich man. He wooed Thurid, and got her with a rich dowry.
This Gudmund was a rich man. He wooed Thurid, and got her with a rich dowry.
Thurid was a woman of wit and sense, somewhat overbearing, capable and active.
Thurid was a woman of wit and sense, somewhat overbearing, capable and active.
Hall was the name of a son of theirs, and Bárdi, Stein and Steingrim. Gudrun and Olöf were their daughters.
Hall was the name of a son of theirs, and Bárdi, Stein and Steingrim. Gudrun and Olöf were their daughters.
Olaf’s daughter Thorbjörg was an uncommonly handsome woman and rather stout. She was called Big Thorbjörg, and had been married into the West, in the Vatzfjord, to Asgeir Svartarson. He was a man of good family.
Olaf’s daughter Thorbjörg was an uncommonly handsome woman and rather stout. She was called Big Thorbjörg, and had been married into the West, in the Vatzfjord, to Asgeir Svartarson. He was a man of good family.
They had a son by the name of Kjartan, father of Thorvald, father of Thord, father of Snorri, father of Thorvald.
They had a son by the name of Kjartan, father of Thorvald, father of Thord, father of Snorri, father of Thorvald.
From them are come the Vatzfjord kindred.
From them are come the Vatzfjord kindred.
Later on Thorbjörg was married to Vermund Thorgrimson. They had a daughter named Thorfinna, who was the wife of Thorstein Kuggason.
Later on Thorbjörg was married to Vermund Thorgrimson. They had a daughter named Thorfinna, who was the wife of Thorstein Kuggason.
Olaf’s daughter Bergthora was married into the West, in Djupafjord, to Thorhall the Godi.
Olaf’s daughter Bergthora was married into the West, in Djupafjord, to Thorhall the Godi.
Their son was Kjartan, father of Smid-Sturla, who was the foster-father of Thord Gilsson.
Their son was Kjartan, father of Smid-Sturla, who was the foster-father of Thord Gilsson.
Óláfr pái átti marga kostgripi í ganganda fé.
Hann átti uxa góðan, er Harri hét, apalgrár at lit, meiri en ǫnnur naut.
Hann hafði fjǫgur horn; váru tvau mikil ok stóðu fagrt, it þriðja stóð í lopt upp, it fjórða stóð ór enni ok niðr fyrir augu honum;
þat var brunnvaka hans; hann krapsaði sem hross.
Einn fellivetr mikinn gekk hann ór Hjarðarholti ok þangat, sem nú heita Harrastaðir, í Breiðafjarðardali; þar gekk hann um vetrinn með sextán nautum ok kom þeim ǫllum á gras;
um várit gekk hann heim í haga, þar sem heitir Harraból í Hjarðarholtslandi.
Þá er Harri var átján vetra gamall, þá fell brunnvaka hans af hǫfði honum, ok þat sama haust lét Óláfr hǫggva hann.
Ina næstu nótt eptir dreymði Óláf, at kona kom at honum; sú var mikil ok reiðulig.
Hon tók til orða: “Er þér svefns?”
Olaf the Peacock owned many valuable animals.
Olaf the Peacock owned many valuable animals.
He had a fine ox, named Harri, of a dapple-gray color, larger than other cattle.
He had a fine ox, named Harri, of a dapple-gray color, larger than other cattle.
He had four horns, two of (98) which were large and well-formed, but a third one stood straight up and the fourth stood out from his forehead and bent down below his eyes.
He had four horns, two of (98) which were large and well-formed, but a third one stood straight up and the fourth stood out from his forehead and bent down below his eyes.
This last one he used as an ice-pick to open the frozen watering-pools. He pawed the snow as horses do.
This last one he used as an ice-pick to open the frozen watering-pools. He pawed the snow as horses do.
During a certain very hard winter, when many cattle were lost for want of forage, he went out of Hjardarholt with sixteen head of cattle, and led them to the place now called Harrastadir, in the Breidafjord valley, and found grass for them all;
During a certain very hard winter, when many cattle were lost for want of forage, he went out of Hjardarholt with sixteen head of cattle, and led them to the place now called Harrastadir, in the Breidafjord valley, and found grass for them all;
and in the spring he led them in on the pasture land of Hjardarholt at the place called Harrabol.
and in the spring he led them in on the pasture land of Hjardarholt at the place called Harrabol.
When Harri was eighteen years old his ice-pick horn dropped off, and the following fall Olaf had him slaughtered.
When Harri was eighteen years old his ice-pick horn dropped off, and the following fall Olaf had him slaughtered.
During the night next following Olaf dreamed that a woman came to him. She was big and fierce.
During the night next following Olaf dreamed that a woman came to him. She was big and fierce.
She spoke and asked him, “Are you sleeping?”
She spoke and asked him, “Are you sleeping?”
Ósvífr hét maðr ok var Helgason, Óttars sonar, Bjarnar sonar ins austrœna, Ketils sonar flatnefs, Bjarnar sonar bunu.
Móðir Ósvífrs hét Niðbjǫrg, hennar móðir Kaðlín, dóttir Gǫngu-Hrólfs, Øxna-Þórissonar; hann var hersir ágretr austr í Vík.
Því var hann svá kallaðr, at hann átti eyjar þrjár ok átta tigu yxna í hverri; hann gaf eina eyna ok yxnina með Hákoni konungi, ok varð sú gjǫf allfræg.
Ósvífr var spekingr mikill; hann bjó at Laugum í Sælingsdal.
Laugabœr stendr fyrir sunnan Sælingsdalsá, gegnt Tungu.
Kona hans hét Þórdís, dóttir Þjóðólfs lága.
Óspakr hét sonr þeira, annarr Helgi, þriði Vandráðr, fjórði Torráðr, (86) fimmti Þórólfr; allir váru þeir vígligir menn.
Guðrún hét dóttir þeira; hon var kvenna vænst, er upp óxu á Íslandi, bæði at ásjánu ok vitsmunum.
Guðrún var kurteis kona, svá at í þann tíma. þóttu allt barnavípur, þat er aðrar konur hǫfðu í skarti hjá henni.
Allra kvenna var hon kœnst ok bezt orði farin; hon var ǫrlynd kona.
Sú kona var á vist með Ósvífri, er Þórhalla hét ok var kǫlluð in málga; hon var nǫkkut skyld Ósvífri.
Tvá sonu átti hon; hét annarr Oddr, en annarr Steinn; þeir váru knáligir menn ok váru mjǫk grjótpálar fyrir búi Ósvífrs.
Málgir váru þeir sem móðir þeira, en óvinsælir; þó hǫfðu þeir mikít hald af sonum Ósvífrs.
Í Tungu bjó sá maðr, er Þórarinn hét, sonr Þóris sælings; hann var góðr búandi.
Þórarinn var mikill maðr ok sterkr; hann átti lendur góðar, en minna lausafé.
Ósvífr vildi kaupa at honum lendur, því at hann hafði landeklu, en fjǫlða kvikfjár.
Þetta fór fram, at Ósvífr keypti at Þórarni af landi hans allt frá Gnúpuskǫrðum ok eptir dalnum tveim megin til Stakkagils; þat eru góð lǫnd ok kostig.
Hann hafði þangat selfǫr.
Jafnan hafði hann hjónmart; var þeira ráðahagr inn virðuligsti.
There was a certain man by the name of Osvif, who was a son of Helgi, son of Ottar, son of Björn the Norwegian, son of Ketil Flatnef, son of Björn Buna.
There was a certain man by the name of Osvif, who was a son of Helgi, son of Ottar, son of Björn the Norwegian, son of Ketil Flatnef, son of Björn Buna.
This Osvif’s mother was named Midbjorg, her mother Kadlin, a daughter of Gongu-Hrolf, son of Öxna-Thori. He [Öxna-Thori] was a hersir of high degree back east in the countryside of Vik.
This Osvif’s mother was named Midbjorg, her mother Kadlin, a daughter of Gongu-Hrolf, son of Öxna-Thori. He [Öxna-Thori] was a hersir of high degree back east in the countryside of Vik.
He was so called because he owned three islands with eighty oxen on each one. He made a present of one of the islands with its oxen to King Harald; and this gift became very famous.
He was so called because he owned three islands with eighty oxen on each one. He made a present of one of the islands with its oxen to King Harald; and this gift became very famous.
Osvif was a wise and learned man. He was living at Laugar, in the Sælingsdal.
Osvif was a wise and learned man. He was living at Laugar, in the Sælingsdal.
The farm of Laugar lies south of the Sælingsdal river, over against Tunga.
The farm of Laugar lies south of the Sælingsdal river, over against Tunga.
His wife was Thordis, daughter of Thjodolf the Short.
His wife was Thordis, daughter of Thjodolf the Short.
Ospak was their eldest son, the second Helgi, third Vandrád, fourth Torrád, fifth Thorolf. They were all able-bodied men.
Ospak was their eldest son, the second Helgi, third Vandrád, fourth Torrád, fifth Thorolf. They were all able-bodied men.
Gudrun was their daughter. She was the goodliest of all women that were then growing up in Iceland, both in looks and in wits.
Gudrun was their daughter. She was the goodliest of all women that were then growing up in Iceland, both in looks and in wits.
Gudrun was a woman of taste and breeding, so that in her day anything the other women had to show in the way of grace and elegance seemed no better than childish capers by the side of her.
Gudrun was a woman of taste and breeding, so that in her day anything the other women had to show in the way of grace and elegance seemed no better than childish capers by the side of her.
She was of all women the shrewdest and most fair-spoken. She was an open-handed giver of gifts.
She was of all women the shrewdest and most fair-spoken. She was an open-handed giver of gifts.
There was also a woman living in Osvif’s house whose name was Thorhalla, nicknamed the Talker. She was some relation of (100) Osvif’s.
There was also a woman living in Osvif’s house whose name was Thorhalla, nicknamed the Talker. She was some relation of (100) Osvif’s.
Two sons she had; one named Odd, the other Stein. They were stout and handy men, and they were hard workers and very useful about Osvif’s farm.
Two sons she had; one named Odd, the other Stein. They were stout and handy men, and they were hard workers and very useful about Osvif’s farm.
At Tunga lived a man by the name of Thorarin, a son of Thori Sæling. He was a freeholder in good standing.
At Tunga lived a man by the name of Thorarin, a son of Thori Sæling. He was a freeholder in good standing.
Thorarin was a large man and a stout one. He was the owner of good ground, but was short of cattle and movables.
Thorarin was a large man and a stout one. He was the owner of good ground, but was short of cattle and movables.
Osvif wished to buy his lands of him, for he was short of land and had much livestock.
Osvif wished to buy his lands of him, for he was short of land and had much livestock.
This was at length arranged, so that Osvif bought of Thorarin all that part of his land which lay below the Gnupuskard, on both sides of the river, as far down the valley as Stakkagil. These are good lands and fertile.
This was at length arranged, so that Osvif bought of Thorarin all that part of his land which lay below the Gnupuskard, on both sides of the river, as far down the valley as Stakkagil. These are good lands and fertile.
He used them for summer pasturage and dairying.
He used them for summer pasturage and dairying.
He had a large household. They were in very good circumstances.
He had a large household. They were in very good circumstances.
Gestr Oddleifsson bjó vestr á Barðastrǫnd, í Haga.
Hann var hǫfðingi mikill ok spekingr at viti, framsynn um marga hluti, vel vingaðr við alla ina stœrri menn, ok margir sóttu ráð at honum.
Hann reið hvert sumar til þings ok hafði jafnan gistingarstað á Hóli.
Einhverju sinni bar enn svá til, at Gestr reið til þings ok gisti á Hóli.
Hann býsk um morguninn snimma, því at leið var lǫng;
hann ætlaði um kveldit í Þykkvaskóg til Ármóðs, mágs síns;
hann átti Þórunni, systur Gests; þeira synir váru þeir Ǫrnólfr ok Halldórr.
Gestr ríðr nú um daginn vestan ór Saurbœ ok kemr til Sælingsdalslaugar ok dvelsk þar um (88) hríð.
Guðrún kom til laugar ok fagnar vel Gesti, frænda sínum.
Gestr tók henni vel, ok taka þau tal saman, ok váru þau bæði vitr ok orðig.
En er á líðr daginn, mælti Guðrún: “Þat vil da ek, frændi, at þú riðir til vár í kveld með allan flokk þinn;
er þat ok vili fǫður míns, þótt hann unni mér virðingar at bera þetta ørendi, ok þat með, at þú gistir þar hvert sinn, er þú ríðr vestr eða vestan.”
Gest Oddleifson was living out west on Bárdastrand, at a place called Hagi.
Gest Oddleifson was living out west on Bárdastrand, at a place called Hagi.
He was a great chieftain and a man of great knowledge and insight, gifted with second sight in many things, with many good friends among folks of the better sort, and many came to him for advice.
He was a great chieftain and a man of great knowledge and insight, gifted with second sight in many things, with many good friends among folks of the better sort, and many came to him for advice.
He rode to the Thing every summer, and he always stopped over at Holl.
He rode to the Thing every summer, and he always stopped over at Holl.
So it happened on a certain time that Gest was again riding to the Thing and stopped over at Holl.
So it happened on a certain time that Gest was again riding to the Thing and stopped over at Holl.
He set out from there in the early morning, as he yet had a long way to go.
He set out from there in the early morning, as he yet had a long way to go.
He counted on reaching his brother-in-law Armod’s place, at Thykkvaskog, by nightfall.
He counted on reaching his brother-in-law Armod’s place, at Thykkvaskog, by nightfall.
He was married to Gest’s sister Thorunn. They had two sons: Örnolf and Haldor.
He was married to Gest’s sister Thorunn. They had two sons: Örnolf and Haldor.
So Gest rode on through the day eastward out of Saurbæ, and came to the hot-baths in Sælingsdal and stopped there for a while.
So Gest rode on through the day eastward out of Saurbæ, and came to the hot-baths in Sælingsdal and stopped there for a while.
Gudrun had come down to the baths, and she courteously greeted her kinsman Gest.
Gudrun had come down to the baths, and she courteously greeted her kinsman Gest.
Gest took her greeting very cordially, and they fell to talking together. And both alike were well informed and good talkers.
Gest took her greeting very cordially, and they fell to talking together. And both alike were well informed and good talkers.
Presently, when the day was getting late, Gudrun said to him: “I wish you would ride back home with me tonight, cousin, and all your company with you.
Presently, when the day was getting late, Gudrun said to him: “I wish you would ride back home with me tonight, cousin, and all your company with you.
The same is also my father’s wish; although he has let me have honor of bearing the message. So also we would like you to stop with us always when you are riding this way either east or west.”
The same is also my father’s wish; although he has let me have honor of bearing the message. So also we would like you to stop with us always when you are riding this way either east or west.”
Ok enn mælti Gestr: “Sá var draumr þinn annarr, at þú þóttisk hafa silfrhring á hendi; þar muntu vera gipt ǫðrum manni ágætum.
Þeim muntu unna mikit ok njóta skamma stund; kemr mér ekki þat at óvǫrum, þóttú missir hann með drukknun, ok eigi geri ek þann draum lengra.
Sá var inn þriði draumr þinn, at þú þóttisk hafa gullhring á hendi; þar muntu eiga inn þriðja bónda.
Ekki mun sá því meira verðr, sem þér þótti sá málmrinn torugætri ok dýrri, en nær er þat mínu hugboði, at í þat mund muni orðit siðaskipti, ok muni sá þinn bóndi hafa tekit við þeim sið, er vér hyggjum, at miklu sé háleitari.
En þar er þér þótti hringrinn í sundr støkkva, nǫkkut af þinni vangeymslu, ok sátt blóð koma ór hlutunum, þá mun sá þinn bóndi vera veginn; muntu þá þykkjask gløggst sjá þá þverbresti, er á þeim ráðahag hafa verit.”
Again Gest spoke, “This was your second dream, that you seemed to be wearing a silver ring on your wrist. That is to say that you will marry a second husband, a man of some consequence.
Again Gest spoke, “This was your second dream, that you seemed to be wearing a silver ring on your wrist. That is to say that you will marry a second husband, a man of some consequence.
Him you will love well and keep but a little while. It will not surprise me if you lose him by drowning. And I have nothing more to say of this dream.
Him you will love well and keep but a little while. It will not surprise me if you lose him by drowning. And I have nothing more to say of this dream.
This was your third dream, that you seemed to be wearing a gold ring. (104) That is to say that you will have a third husband.
This was your third dream, that you seemed to be wearing a gold ring. (104) That is to say that you will have a third husband.
He will scarcely be as much dearer as the one metal is rarer and costlier than the other. And it comes to me as a foreboding that at about that time there will come a great change in the customs of the country, and this husband of yours is likely to have taken up with the new faith and ritual, which we believe will be much the better and more holy.
He will scarcely be as much dearer as the one metal is rarer and costlier than the other. And it comes to me as a foreboding that at about that time there will come a great change in the customs of the country, and this husband of yours is likely to have taken up with the new faith and ritual, which we believe will be much the better and more holy.
And just as it seemed to you that your ring went to pieces, partly by your own neglect, and as you saw the broken pieces bleeding, so will this husband of yours be killed. And then you will be able to see just what was wrong about that marriage.”
And just as it seemed to you that your ring went to pieces, partly by your own neglect, and as you saw the broken pieces bleeding, so will this husband of yours be killed. And then you will be able to see just what was wrong about that marriage.”
Síðan fór Guðrún heim, en Gestr reið í brott ok mœtti heimamanni Óláfs við túngarð.
Hann bauð Gesti í Hjarðarholt at orðsending Óláfs.
Gestr kvazk vilja finna Óláf um daginn, en gista í Þykkvaskógi.
Snýr húskarl þegar heim ok segir Óláfi svá skapat.
Óláfr lét taka hesta, ok reið hann í mót Gesti við nǫkkura menn.
Þeir Gestr finnask inn við Ljá.
Óláfr fagnar honum vel ok bauð honum til sín með allan flokk sinn.
Gestr þakkar honum boðit ok kvazk ríða mundu á bœinn ok sjá hýbýli hans, en gista Ármóð.
Gestr dvalðisk litla hríð ok sá þó víða á bœinn ok lét vel yfir, kvað eigi þar fé til sparat bœjar þess.
Óláfr reið á leið með Gesti til Laxár.
Þeir fóstbrœðr hǫfðu verit á sundi um daginn; réðu þeir Óláfssynir mest fyrir þeiri skemmtun.
(92) Margir váru ungir menn af ǫðrum bœjum á sundi.
Þá hljópu þeir Kjartan ok Bolli af sundi, er flokkrinn reið at; váru þá mjǫk klæddir, er þeir Gestr ok Óláfr riðu at.
Gestr leit á þessa ina ungu menn um stund ok sagði Óláfi, hvar Kjartan sat ok svá Bolli, ok þá rétti Gestr spjótshalann at sérhverjum þeira Óláfssona ok nefndi þá alla, er þar váru;
en margir váru þar aðrir menn allvænligir, þeir er þá váru af sundi komnir ok sátu á árbakkanum hjá þeim Kjartani.
Ekki kvazk Gestr þekkja ættarbragð Óláfs á þeim mǫnnum.
Þá mælti Óláfr: “Eigi má ofsǫgum segja frá vitsmunum þínum, Gestr, er þú kennir óséna menn, ok þat vil ek, at þú segir mér, hverr þeira inna ungu manna mun mestr verða fyrir sér.”
After this, Gudrun turned back home and Gest rode on his way, and he met one of Olaf’s men by the fence.
After this, Gudrun turned back home and Gest rode on his way, and he met one of Olaf’s men by the fence.
He brought word from Olaf, to invite Gest to Hjardarholt.
He brought word from Olaf, to invite Gest to Hjardarholt.
Gest promised to visit Olaf during the day, but said that he would be stopping overnight at Thykkvaskog.
Gest promised to visit Olaf during the day, but said that he would be stopping overnight at Thykkvaskog.
So the farmhand turned back home and told Olaf.
So the farmhand turned back home and told Olaf.
Olaf called for horses and rode out to meet Gest on the way with a small company.
Olaf called for horses and rode out to meet Gest on the way with a small company.
They met Gest down by the seashore.
They met Gest down by the seashore.
Olaf greeted him cordially and invited him to his home with all his company.
Olaf greeted him cordially and invited him to his home with all his company.
Gest thanked him for the invitation and said that he would ride back with him to the house and see his home, but said that he would be staying overnight with Armod.
Gest thanked him for the invitation and said that he would ride back with him to the house and see his home, but said that he would be staying overnight with Armod.
Gest stayed but a little while, and yet he looked the farm over quite widely and had a good word to say for it all; saying that no means had been spared on this farm.
Gest stayed but a little while, and yet he looked the farm over quite widely and had a good word to say for it all; saying that no means had been spared on this farm.
Olaf kept Gest company on the way, as far as the Laxá river.
Olaf kept Gest company on the way, as far as the Laxá river.
The foster-brothers, Olaf’s sons and Bolli, had been in swimming during the day. The Olafsons led in this sport,
The foster-brothers, Olaf’s sons and Bolli, had been in swimming during the day. The Olafsons led in this sport,
but there were also many young men from other farms at the swimming-place.
but there were also many young men from other farms at the swimming-place.
Kjartan and Bolli came out of the water when the company came riding down, and they were pretty much dressed by the time Gest and Olaf rode down to the river.
Kjartan and Bolli came out of the water when the company came riding down, and they were pretty much dressed by the time Gest and Olaf rode down to the river.
Gest looked the young men over for a while, and asked Olaf which was Kjartan and which Bolli, and Olaf then pomted them out one by one with his spear-butt and named all of them that were there.
Gest looked the young men over for a while, and asked Olaf which was Kjartan and which Bolli, and Olaf then pomted them out one by one with his spear-butt and named all of them that were there.
And there were many other men there, full-grown, who had come in from the swimming by this time and were sitting on the riverbank along with Kjanan and the rest.
And there were many other men there, full-grown, who had come in from the swimming by this time and were sitting on the riverbank along with Kjanan and the rest.
Gest remarked that he could see no mark of Olaf’s kindred in any of these men.
Gest remarked that he could see no mark of Olaf’s kindred in any of these men.
After a little, Olaf said, “There is no denying your superior talents, Gest. You recognise men whom you have never seen (106) before. But now I would like you to tell me which of these young men will come to be the better man.”
After a little, Olaf said, “There is no denying your superior talents, Gest. You recognise men whom you have never seen (106) before. But now I would like you to tell me which of these young men will come to be the better man.”
Þorvaldr hét maðr, sonr Halldórs Garpsdalsgoða. Hann bjó í Garpsdal í Gilsfirði, auðigr maðr ok engi hetja.
Hann bað Guðrúnar Ósvífrsdóttur á alþingi, þá er hon var fimmtán vetra gǫmul.
Því máli var eigi fjarri tekit, en þó sagði Ósvífr, at þat myndi á kostum finna, at þau Guðrún váru eigi jafnmenni.
Þorvaldr talaði óbarðfœrliga, kvazk konu biðja, en ekki fjár.
Síðan var Guðrún fǫstnuð Þorvaldi, ok réð Ósvífr einn máldaga, ok svá var skilt, at Guðrún skyldi ein ráða fyrir fé þeira, þegar er þau koma í eina rekkju, ok eiga alls helming, hvárt er samfarar þeira væri lengri eða skemmri.
Hann skyldi ok kaupa gripi til handa henni, svá at engi jafnfjáð kona ætti betri gripi, en þó mætti hann halda búi sínu fyrir þær sakar.
Ríða menn nú heim af þingi.
Ekki var Guðrún at þessu spurð, ok heldr gerði hon sér at þessu ógetit, ok var þó kyrrt.
Brúðkaup var í Garpsdal at tvímánuði.
Lítt unni Guðrún Þorvaldi ok var erfið í gripakaupum;
váru engar gersimar svá miklar á Vestfjǫrðum, at Guðrúnu þœtti eigi skapligt, at hon ætti, en galt fjándskap Þorvaldi, ef hann keypti eigi, hversu dýrar sem metnar váru.
Þórðr Ingunnarson gerði sér dátt við þau Þorvald ok Guðrúnu ok var þar lǫngum, ok fell þar mǫrg umrœða á um kærleika þeira Þórðar ok Guðrúnar.
Þat var eitt sinn, at Guðrún beiddi Þorvald gripakaups.
Þorvaldr kvað hana ekki hóf at kunna ok sló hana kinnhest.
Þá mælti Guðrún: “Nú gaftu mér þat, (94) er oss konum þykkir miklu skipta, at vér eigim vel at gǫrt, en þat er litarapti gott, ok af hefir þú mik ráðit brekvísi við þik.”
There was a man by the name of Thorvald, a son of Haldor the Godi of Garpsdal, who lived in the Garpsdal valley in the countryside of Gilsfjord; a man of wealth and of no heroic temper.
There was a man by the name of Thorvald, a son of Haldor the Godi of Garpsdal, who lived in the Garpsdal valley in the countryside of Gilsfjord; a man of wealth and of no heroic temper.
He bespoke marriage with Gudrun, Osvif’s daughter, one summer at the Althing, when she was fifteen years old.
He bespoke marriage with Gudrun, Osvif’s daughter, one summer at the Althing, when she was fifteen years old.
His suit was accepted, but Osvif told him the terms of the contract would be such as to show that he was not Gudrun’s equal.
His suit was accepted, but Osvif told him the terms of the contract would be such as to show that he was not Gudrun’s equal.
Thorvald spoke very temperately, saying that he was suing for a wife, not for a dowry.
Thorvald spoke very temperately, saying that he was suing for a wife, not for a dowry.
So Gudrun was pledged to Thorvald, and Osvif alone settled the terms of the contract. And it was the agreement that Gudrun was to have full control of their joint property so soon as they were bedded together, and to own a half interest in it all, whether their living together were for a longer or a shorter time.
So Gudrun was pledged to Thorvald, and Osvif alone settled the terms of the contract. And it was the agreement that Gudrun was to have full control of their joint property so soon as they were bedded together, and to own a half interest in it all, whether their living together were for a longer or a shorter time.
He was also to buy her jewels and ornaments to such a value that no other equally well-to-do woman was possessed of more or better, provided always that his property was not impaired by it.
He was also to buy her jewels and ornaments to such a value that no other equally well-to-do woman was possessed of more or better, provided always that his property was not impaired by it.
So the folks then rode away home from the Thing.
So the folks then rode away home from the Thing.
Gudrun was not consulted in this matter, and she was rather unhappy about it; yet it all passed off quietly.
Gudrun was not consulted in this matter, and she was rather unhappy about it; yet it all passed off quietly.
The wedding was at Garpsdal, in the Tvimanad.33
The wedding was at Garpsdal, in the Tvimanad.33
Gudrun had little love for Thorvald, and was greatly set on the buying of costly ornaments.
Gudrun had little love for Thorvald, and was greatly set on the buying of costly ornaments.
Indeed there were (108) no precious things in the country of the Western fjords so valuable but that Gudrun thought she ought reasonably to have them, and she paid Thorvald with ill temper if he failed to buy, whatever price they were held at.
Indeed there were (108) no precious things in the country of the Western fjords so valuable but that Gudrun thought she ought reasonably to have them, and she paid Thorvald with ill temper if he failed to buy, whatever price they were held at.
Thord Ingunnarson came to be on easy terms with Thorvald and Gudrun and spent much of his time on the place, and there was a good deal of talk about a love affair between Thord and Gudrun.
Thord Ingunnarson came to be on easy terms with Thorvald and Gudrun and spent much of his time on the place, and there was a good deal of talk about a love affair between Thord and Gudrun.
On a certain time Gudrun was again begging Thorvald to buy jewellery.
On a certain time Gudrun was again begging Thorvald to buy jewellery.
Thorvald told her she was going too far, and boxed her ears.
Thorvald told her she was going too far, and boxed her ears.
Then said Gudrun, “Now you have given me something which we womenfolk set great store by-a rosy complexion. And you have taught me a lesson, too, not to bother you with begging.”
Then said Gudrun, “Now you have given me something which we womenfolk set great store by-a rosy complexion. And you have taught me a lesson, too, not to bother you with begging.”
Þetta sumar fór Gestr til þings ok fór á skipi til Saurbœjar, sem hann var vanr.
Hann gisti á Hóli í Saurbœ.
Þeir mágar léðu honum hesta, sem fyrr var vant.
Þórðr Ingunnarson var þá í fǫr með Gesti ok kom til Lauga í Sælingsdal.
Guðrún Ósvífrsdóttir reið til þings, ok fylgði henni Þórðr Ingunnarson.
Þat var einn dag, er þau riðu yfir Bláskógaheiði, - var á veðr gott - þá mælti Guðrún: “Hvárt er þat satt, Þórðr, at Auðr, kona þín, er jafnan í brókum, ok setgeiri í, en vafit spjǫrrum mjǫk í skúa niðr?”
This summer Gest went by boat to Saurbæ, as was usual with him.
This summer Gest went by boat to Saurbæ, as was usual with him.
He found lodging overnight at Hol, in Saurbæ,
He found lodging overnight at Hol, in Saurbæ,
and the two brothers and their brother-in-law Thord lent him horses, as usual.
and the two brothers and their brother-in-law Thord lent him horses, as usual.
Thord Ingunnarson joined Gest’s company, and so came to Laugar in Sælingsdal.
Thord Ingunnarson joined Gest’s company, and so came to Laugar in Sælingsdal.
Gudrun Osvifsdaughter rode along to the Thing, and Thord Ingunnarson kept her company.
Gudrun Osvifsdaughter rode along to the Thing, and Thord Ingunnarson kept her company.
One day as they were riding across the Blaskog moors, in fine weather, Gudrun spoke up and said, “Is it true, Thord, that your wife Aud is in the habit of wearing breeches with a codpiece, and with the ends of them wound about her legs all the way down and tucked into her shoes?”
One day as they were riding across the Blaskog moors, in fine weather, Gudrun spoke up and said, “Is it true, Thord, that your wife Aud is in the habit of wearing breeches with a codpiece, and with the ends of them wound about her legs all the way down and tucked into her shoes?”
Síðan reið Þórðr til féskiptis vestr til Saurbœjar með tólfta mann, ok gekk þat greitt, því at Þórði var óspart um, hversu fénu var skipt.
Þórðr rak vestan til Lauga mart búfé.
Síðan bað hann Guðrúnar; var honum þat mál auðsótt við Ósvífr, en Guðrún mælti ekki í móti.
Brullaup skyldi vera at Laugum at tíu vikum sumars; var sú veizla allskǫrulig.
Samfǫr þeira Þórðar ok Guðrúnar var góð.
Þat eitt helt til, at Þorkell hvelpr ok Knútr fóru eigi málum á hendr Þórði Ingunnarsyni, (97) at þeir fengu eigi styrk til.
Annat sumar eptir hǫfðu Hólsmenn selfǫr í Hvammsdal; var Auðr at seli.
Laugamenn hǫfðu selfǫr í Lambadal; sá gengr vestr í fjǫll af Sælingsdal.
Auðr spyrr þann mann, er smalans gætti, hversu opt hann fyndi smalamann frá Laugum.
Hann kvað þat jafnan vera, sem líkligt var, því at háls einn var á milli seljanna.
Þá mælti Auðr: “Þú skalt hitta í dag smalamann frá Laugum, ok máttu segja mér, hvat manna er at vetrhúsum eða í seli, ok rœð allt vingjarnliga til Þórðar, sem þú átt at gera.”
Shortly after this Thord rode out westward into Saurbæ with a company of twelve to see to a division of the property, and that matter was easily arranged, for Thord made small account of how the goods were divided.
Shortly after this Thord rode out westward into Saurbæ with a company of twelve to see to a division of the property, and that matter was easily arranged, for Thord made small account of how the goods were divided.
Thord brought back with him to Laugar a drove of cattle.
Thord brought back with him to Laugar a drove of cattle.
Presently afterward he made his suit for Gudrun in marriage. He readily got Osvif’s consent, and Gudrun made no objection.
Presently afterward he made his suit for Gudrun in marriage. He readily got Osvif’s consent, and Gudrun made no objection.
The wedding was to be at Laugar in the tenth week of summer. It was a very sumptuous wedding feast.
The wedding was to be at Laugar in the tenth week of summer. It was a very sumptuous wedding feast.
Thord and Gudrun’s life together was a happy one.
Thord and Gudrun’s life together was a happy one.
This thing alone stood in the way of Thorkel (111) Hvelp and Knut proceeding against Thord Ingunnarson, that they could not get backing enough for it.
This thing alone stood in the way of Thorkel (111) Hvelp and Knut proceeding against Thord Ingunnarson, that they could not get backing enough for it.
The next following summer the Hol folks went to their summer dairying in the Hvammsdal. Aud was at the sel.36
The next following summer the Hol folks went to their summer dairying in the Hvammsdal. Aud was at the sel.36
The Laugar folks had their dairying in the Lambadal, which runs westward into the hills back of the Hvammsdal.
The Laugar folks had their dairying in the Lambadal, which runs westward into the hills back of the Hvammsdal.
Aud asked the young man who herded the milch-cattle how often he came across Thord’s herdsman.
Aud asked the young man who herded the milch-cattle how often he came across Thord’s herdsman.
He said it happened very frequently, as was likely to be the case, seeing that the valley lay between the two rivers.
He said it happened very frequently, as was likely to be the case, seeing that the valley lay between the two rivers.
Then Aud told him, “Today you are to see the herdsman from Laugar and find out for me how many of the folks were staying at home and who were at the sel. And always speak well and kindly of Thord, as is right and proper for you to do.”
Then Aud told him, “Today you are to see the herdsman from Laugar and find out for me how many of the folks were staying at home and who were at the sel. And always speak well and kindly of Thord, as is right and proper for you to do.”
Smalasveinn gerði, sem hon bauð, ok nǫkkuru fyrir sólarfall sté Auðr á bak, ok var hon þá at vísu í brókum.
Smalasveinn reið ǫðrum hesti ok gat varla fylgt henni, svá knúði hon fast reiðina.
Hon reið suðr yfir Sælingsdalsheiði ok nam eigi staðar fyrr en undir túngarði at Laugum.
Þá sté hon af baki, en bað smalasveininn gæta hestanna, meðan hon gengi til húss.
(98) Auðr gekk at durum, ok var opin hurð; hon gekk til eldhúss ok at lokrekkju þeiri, er Þórðr lá í ok svaf; var hurðin fallin aptr, en eigi lokan fyrir.
Hon gekk í lokrekkjuna, en Þórðr svaf ok horfði í lopt upp.
Þá vakði Auðr Þórð, en hann snerisk á hliðina, er hann sá, at maðr var kominn.
Hon brá þá saxi ok lagði at Þórði ok veitti honum áverka mikla, ok kom á hǫndina hœgri; varð hann sárr á báðum geirvǫrtum; svá lagði hon til fast, at saxit nam í beðinum staðar.
Síðan gekk Auðr brott ok til hests ok hljóp á bak ok reið heim eptir þat.
Þórðr vildi upp spretta, er hann fekk áverkann, ok varð þat ekki, því at hann mœddi blóðrás.
Við þetta vaknaði Ósvífr ok spyrr, hvat títt væri, en Þórðr kvazk orðinn fyrir áverkum nǫkkurum.
Ósvífr spyrr, ef hann vissi, hverr á honum hefði unnit, ok stóð upp ok batt um sár hans.
Þórðr kvazk ætla, at þat hefði Auðr gǫrt.
Ósvífr bauð at ríða eptir henni; kvað hana fámenna til mundu hafa farit, ok væri henni skapat víti.
Þórðr kvað þat fjarri skyldu fara; sagði hana slíkt hafa at gǫrt, sem hon átti.
Auðr kom heim í sólarupprás, ok spurðu þeir brœðr hennar, hvert hon hefði farit.
Auðr kvazk farit hafa til Lauga ok sagði þeim, hvat til tíðenda hafði gǫrzk í fǫrum hennar; þeir létu vel yfir ok kváðu of lítit mundu at orðit.
Þórðr lá lengi í sárum, ok greru vel bringusárin, en sú hǫndin varð honum hvergi betri til taks en áðr.
The herdsboy did as she told him. And shortly before sunset Aud got to horse; and that time she was wearing breeches, and no mistake.
The herdsboy did as she told him. And shortly before sunset Aud got to horse; and that time she was wearing breeches, and no mistake.
The herdsboy rode the other horse, and he could hardly keep up with her, she rode so hard.
The herdsboy rode the other horse, and he could hardly keep up with her, she rode so hard.
She rode southward over the Sælingsdal moorland and made no stay until they were close under the farmyard fence at Laugar.
She rode southward over the Sælingsdal moorland and made no stay until they were close under the farmyard fence at Laugar.
There she dismounted and told (112) the herdsboy to hold the horses while she went indoors.
There she dismounted and told (112) the herdsboy to hold the horses while she went indoors.
Aud went to the door. She went in and to the closet-bed in which Thord was sleeping. The door of the bed was fallen to, but the bar was not in place.
Aud went to the door. She went in and to the closet-bed in which Thord was sleeping. The door of the bed was fallen to, but the bar was not in place.
She went up to the bed, where Thord was lying asleep, on his back.
She went up to the bed, where Thord was lying asleep, on his back.
Then Aud woke Thord, and he turned over on his side when he saw there was some one there.
Then Aud woke Thord, and he turned over on his side when he saw there was some one there.
She then drew a shortsword and lunged at Thord and gave him a great wound. It took him across the right arm, and he was also hurt across both breasts. So hard had she struck that the sword stuck fast in the bed-frame.
She then drew a shortsword and lunged at Thord and gave him a great wound. It took him across the right arm, and he was also hurt across both breasts. So hard had she struck that the sword stuck fast in the bed-frame.
Then Aud went out and back to the horses, mounted and rode away.
Then Aud went out and back to the horses, mounted and rode away.
Thord tried to get up when he got the hurt, but could not, for the loss of blood disabled him.
Thord tried to get up when he got the hurt, but could not, for the loss of blood disabled him.
By this time Osvif was awake and asked what was doing. And Thord told him he had got badly hurt somehow.
By this time Osvif was awake and asked what was doing. And Thord told him he had got badly hurt somehow.
Osvif asked if he knew who it was that had attacked him, and got up and bandaged his wounds.
Osvif asked if he knew who it was that had attacked him, and got up and bandaged his wounds.
Thord said he believed Aud was the one who had done it.
Thord said he believed Aud was the one who had done it.
Osvif offered to ride after her; said she was likely to have come with a very small following and that her punishment was ready for her.
Osvif offered to ride after her; said she was likely to have come with a very small following and that her punishment was ready for her.
But Thord told him he would have nothing of the kind, and said that she had only done what she had a right to.
But Thord told him he would have nothing of the kind, and said that she had only done what she had a right to.
Aud got home about sunrise and her brothers asked where she had been.
Aud got home about sunrise and her brothers asked where she had been.
Aud told them she had been to Laugar, and then told what had happened while she was away. They told her it was well done, but doubted if she had done enough.
Aud told them she had been to Laugar, and then told what had happened while she was away. They told her it was well done, but doubted if she had done enough.
Thord was laid up for a long time with his hurts, and the wounds across his chest healed well and readily but he never had the full use of his arm again.
Thord was laid up for a long time with his hurts, and the wounds across his chest healed well and readily but he never had the full use of his arm again.
Kyrrt var nú um vetrinn. En eptir um várit kom Ingunn, móðir Þórðar, vestan af Skálmarnesi.
Hann tók vel við henni.
Hon kvazk vilja ráðask undir áraburð Þórðar; kvað hon Kotkel ok konu hans ok sonu gera sér óvært í fjárránum ok fjǫlkynngi, en hafa mikit traust af Hallsteini (99) goða.
Þórðr veiksk skjótt við þetta mál ok kvazk hafa skyldu rétt af þjófum þeim, þótt Hallsteinn væri at móti; snarask þegar til ferðar við tíunda mann.
Ingunn fór ok vestr með honum.
Hann hafði ferju ór Tjaldanesi.
Síðan heldu þau vestr til Skálmarness.
Þórðr lét flytja til skips allt lausafé, þat er móðir hans átti þar, en smala skyldi reka fyrir innan fjǫrðu.
Tólf váru þau alls á skipi; þar var Ingunn ok ǫnnur kona.
Þórðr kom til bœjar Kotkels með tíunda mann; synir þeira Kotkels váru eigi heima.
Síðan stefndi hann þeim Kotkatli ok Grímu ok sonum þeira um þjófnað ok fjǫlkynngi ok lét varða skóggang; hann stefndi sǫkum þeim til alþingis ok fór til skips eptir þat.
Þá kómu þeir Hallbjǫrn ok Stígandi heim, er Þórðr var kominn frá landi, ok þó skammt; sagði Kotkell þá sonum sínum, hvat þar hafði í gǫrzk.
Þeir brœðr urðu óðir við þetta ok kváðu menn ekki hafa fyrr gengit í berhǫgg við þau um svá mikinn fjándskap.
Síðan lét Kotkell gera seiðhjall mikinn; þau fœrðusk þar á upp ǫll; þau kváðu þar harðsnúin frœði; þat váru galdrar.
Því næst laust á hríð mikilli.
Þat fann Þórðr Ingunnarson ok hans fǫrunautar, þar sem hann var á sæ staddr, ok til hans var gǫrt veðrit. Keyrir skipit vestr fyrir Skálmarnes.
Þórðr sýndi mikinn hraustleik í sæliði.
(100) Þat sá þeir menn, er á landi váru, at hann kastaði því ǫllu, er til þunga var, útan mǫnnum;
væntu þeir menn, er á landi váru, Þórði þá landtǫku, því at þá var af farit þat, sem skerjóttast var.
Síðan reis boði skammt frá landi, sá er engi maðr munði, at fyrr hefði uppi verit, ok laust skipit svá, at þegar horfði upp kjǫlrinn.
Þar drukknaði Þórðr ok allt fǫruneyti hans, en skipit braut í spán, ok rak þar kjǫlinn, er síðan heitir Kjalarey; skjǫld Þórðar rak í þá ey, er Skjaldarey er kǫlluð.
Lík Þórðar rak þar þegar á land ok hans fǫrunauta; var þar haugr orpinn at líkum þeira, þar er síðan heitir Haugsnes.
All was quiet through the winter following, but the next spring Ingunn, Thord’s mother, came back east from Skalmarnes.
All was quiet through the winter following, but the next spring Ingunn, Thord’s mother, came back east from Skalmarnes.
She said she wanted to come in under Thord’s care; she said Kotkel was driving her out with his thievery and witchcraft, and (113) also that he had the backing of Hallstein the Godi.
She said she wanted to come in under Thord’s care; she said Kotkel was driving her out with his thievery and witchcraft, and (113) also that he had the backing of Hallstein the Godi.
Thord immediately took this matter up, and said that he was going to bring these thieves to a reckoning in spite of Hallstein. He set out directly with a company of ten.
Thord immediately took this matter up, and said that he was going to bring these thieves to a reckoning in spite of Hallstein. He set out directly with a company of ten.
Ingunn, too, went west with him.
Ingunn, too, went west with him.
He went by a cutter from Tjaldanes.
He went by a cutter from Tjaldanes.
So they went on west to Skalmarnes.
So they went on west to Skalmarnes.
Thord had all the household goods belonging to his mother brought on board the boat. The livestock was to be driven overland, back of the inlets.
Thord had all the household goods belonging to his mother brought on board the boat. The livestock was to be driven overland, back of the inlets.
There were twelve of them in the boat, altogether. Ingunn and another woman were with them.
There were twelve of them in the boat, altogether. Ingunn and another woman were with them.
Thord then went on to Kotkel’s place with a company of ten men. Kotkel’s sons were not at home.
Thord then went on to Kotkel’s place with a company of ten men. Kotkel’s sons were not at home.
He then laid a charge against Kotkel and Grima and their sons, for theft and sorcery, with a penalty of full outlawry37
and summoned them to answer these charges at the Althing. After that he returned to the boat.
He then laid a charge against Kotkel and Grima and their sons, for theft and sorcery, with a penalty of full outlawry37
and summoned them to answer these charges at the Althing. After that he returned to the boat.
Then presently Hallbjorn and Stigandi came home, by the time Thord had got away from land, although he was but a little way out. Kotkel told his sons what had taken place while they were away.
Then presently Hallbjorn and Stigandi came home, by the time Thord had got away from land, although he was but a little way out. Kotkel told his sons what had taken place while they were away.
The two brothers were furious. They said that never before had any man dared to show them such open hostility.
The two brothers were furious. They said that never before had any man dared to show them such open hostility.
Meantime Kotkel set about building a big witch-scaffold. On this they all mounted. There they chanted their wise ballads; magical incantations.
Meantime Kotkel set about building a big witch-scaffold. On this they all mounted. There they chanted their wise ballads; magical incantations.
Thereupon there came up a great tempest.
Thereupon there came up a great tempest.
And Thord Ingunnarson and his company out at sea soon found that it was for them the storm had been raised. Their boat drove out westward past Skalmarnes.
And Thord Ingunnarson and his company out at sea soon found that it was for them the storm had been raised. Their boat drove out westward past Skalmarnes.
Thord showed a masterly seamanship.
Thord showed a masterly seamanship.
Folks ashore saw them throwing overboard everything of any weight except the (114) men and women.
Folks ashore saw them throwing overboard everything of any weight except the (114) men and women.
And the folks on shore then looked to see Thord make a landing, for he had then got past the worst reefs and breakers.
And the folks on shore then looked to see Thord make a landing, for he had then got past the worst reefs and breakers.
Thereupon there rose up an enormous breaker right near the shore, such as no man had seen before, and fell upon the boat so that it turned keel upwards all at once.
Thereupon there rose up an enormous breaker right near the shore, such as no man had seen before, and fell upon the boat so that it turned keel upwards all at once.
There Thord was drowned, and all who were with him, and the boat was broken into splinters. The keel of it came ashore on what has since been known as Keel Island. Thord’s shield drifted ashore on the island which has since then been called Shield Island.
There Thord was drowned, and all who were with him, and the boat was broken into splinters. The keel of it came ashore on what has since been known as Keel Island. Thord’s shield drifted ashore on the island which has since then been called Shield Island.
Thord’s body, and those of his company, were washed ashore shortly after, and a grave-mound was raised over their dead bodies at the place since known as Haugsnes.
Thord’s body, and those of his company, were washed ashore shortly after, and a grave-mound was raised over their dead bodies at the place since known as Haugsnes.
Þorleikr slæsk nú í málinu, ok þóttu honum fǫgr hrossin, en Kotkell flutti kœnliga málit.
Þá tók Þorleikr við hrossunum.
Hann fekk þeim bústað á Leiðólfsstǫðum í Laxárdal; hann birgði þau ok um búfé.
Þetta spyrja Laugamenn, ok vilja synir Ósvífrs þegar gera til þeira Kotkels ok sona hans.
Ósvífr mælti: “Hǫfu vér nú ráð Snorra goða ok (102) spǫrum þetta verk ǫðrum,
því at skammt mun líða, áðr búar Kotkels munu eiga spánnýjar sakar við þá, ok mun, sem vert er, Þorleiki mest mein at þeim;
munu þeir margir hans óvinir af stundu, er hann hefir áðr haft stundan af;
en eigi mun ek letja yðr at gera slíkt mein þeim Kotkatli, sem yðr líkar, ef eigi verða aðrir til at elta þau ór heraði eða taka af lífi með ǫllu, um þat er þrír vetr eru liðnir.”
So now Thorleik argued the matter further, and the stud of horses seemed very good to him, and Kotkel argued his case very cleverly.
So now Thorleik argued the matter further, and the stud of horses seemed very good to him, and Kotkel argued his case very cleverly.
In the end Thorleik took the horses;
In the end Thorleik took the horses;
and he gave them a homestead at Leidolfstadir in the Laxárdal. He also found them in the necessary livestock.
and he gave them a homestead at Leidolfstadir in the Laxárdal. He also found them in the necessary livestock.
All this presently came to the knowledge of the Laugafolk, and the Osvifsons were all for doing away with Kotkel and his sons out of hand.
All this presently came to the knowledge of the Laugafolk, and the Osvifsons were all for doing away with Kotkel and his sons out of hand.
But Osvif told them, “Let us rather benefit by Snorri Godi’s advice, and leave that job to some one else.
But Osvif told them, “Let us rather benefit by Snorri Godi’s advice, and leave that job to some one else.
For it will not be long before Kotkel’s neighbors will come in for brand-new grievances (117) against them, and Thorleik will be the one to suffer the greatest damage, as is quite right.
For it will not be long before Kotkel’s neighbors will come in for brand-new grievances (117) against them, and Thorleik will be the one to suffer the greatest damage, as is quite right.
Many will soon be his enemies who have made much of him in the past.
Many will soon be his enemies who have made much of him in the past.
But I shall not hinder your doing Kotkel and his folks any mischief you like, if no one else undertakes to chase them out of the country, or to kill them off altogether, by the time three years are past.”
But I shall not hinder your doing Kotkel and his folks any mischief you like, if no one else undertakes to chase them out of the country, or to kill them off altogether, by the time three years are past.”
Eldgrímr vill nú skilja ok hrøkkvir hestinn; en er Hrútr sá þat, reiddi hann upp bryntrollit ok setr milli herða Eldgrími, svá at þegar slitnaði brynjan fyrir, en bryntrollit hljóp út um bringuna; fell Eldgrímr dauðr af hestinum, sem ván var.
Síðan hulði Hrútr hræ hans; þar heitir Eldgrímsholt, suðr frá Kambsnesi.
Eptir þetta fíðr Hrútr ofan á Kambsnes ok segir Þorleiki þessi tíðendi.
Hann brásk reiðr við ok þóttisk vera mjǫk svívirðr í þessu tilbragði; en Hrútr þóttisk hafa sýnt við hann mikinn vinskap.
Þorleikr kvað þat bæði vera, at honum hafði illt til gengit, enda myndi eigi gott í móti koma.
Hrútr kvað hann mundu því ráða; skiljask þeir með engri blíðu.
Hrútr var þá áttrœðr, er hann drap Eldgrím, ok þótti hann mikit hafa vaxit af þessu verki.
Ekki þótti Þorleiki Hrútr því betra af verðr, at hann væri miklaðr af þessu verki; þóttisk hann glǫggt skilja, at hann myndi hafa borit af Eldgrími, ef þeir hefði reynt með sér, svá lítit sem fyrir hann lagðisk.
Fór Þorleikr nú á fund landseta sinna, Kotkels ok Grímu, ok bað þau gera nǫkkurn hlut, þann er Hrúti væri svívirðing at.
Þau tóku undir þetta léttliga ok kváðusk þess vera albúin.
Síðan ferr Þorleikr heim.
En litlu síðar gera þau heimanferð sína, Kotkell ok Gríma ok synir þeira; þat var um nótt.
Þau fóru á bœ Hrúts ok gerðu þar seið mikinn.
En er seiðlætin kómu upp, þá þóttusk þeir eigi skilja, er inni váru, (106) hverju gegna myndi; en fǫgr var sú kvedandi at heyra.
Hrútr einn kenndi þessi læti ok bað engan mann út sjá á þeiri nótt, - “ok haldi hverr vǫku sinni, er má, ok mun oss þá ekki til saka, ef svá er með farit.”
Eldgrim now broke off and turned to go and started his horse; but when Hrut saw this he swung his martel-de-fer and drove it between Eldgrim’s shoulders so that the coat-of-mail gave way and the point of the martel-de-fer ran through and out at the front. Eldgrim tumbled off his horse dead, as might be expected.
Eldgrim now broke off and turned to go and started his horse; but when Hrut saw this he swung his martel-de-fer and drove it between Eldgrim’s shoulders so that the coat-of-mail gave way and the point of the martel-de-fer ran through and out at the front. Eldgrim tumbled off his horse dead, as might be expected.
Hrut thereupon covered the body.39
(121) The place is called Eldgrimsholt, southerly from Kambsnes.
Hrut thereupon covered the body.39
(121) The place is called Eldgrimsholt, southerly from Kambsnes.
After this Hrut rode down to Kambsnes and told the news to Thorleik.
After this Hrut rode down to Kambsnes and told the news to Thorleik.
He broke out in a fit of anger. He considered that a great shame had been put on him in this affair; all the while that Hrut thought he had been doing him very much of a good turn.
He broke out in a fit of anger. He considered that a great shame had been put on him in this affair; all the while that Hrut thought he had been doing him very much of a good turn.
Thorleik told him both that he had been ill used and that no good would be given in return.
Thorleik told him both that he had been ill used and that no good would be given in return.
Hrut told him that he would have to see about all that; and so they parted, quite without goodwill.
Hrut told him that he would have to see about all that; and so they parted, quite without goodwill.
Hrut was eighty years old at the time he killed Eldgrim, and this exploit added not a little to his renown.
Hrut was eighty years old at the time he killed Eldgrim, and this exploit added not a little to his renown.
To Thorleik it seemed that Hrut had no claim to credit in all this. It is plain to his mind that he could himself have put Eldgrim out of the way if they had come to blows, seeing it had taken such a little thing to finish him.
To Thorleik it seemed that Hrut had no claim to credit in all this. It is plain to his mind that he could himself have put Eldgrim out of the way if they had come to blows, seeing it had taken such a little thing to finish him.
Presently after, Thorleik went to see his tenants, Kotkel and Grima, and asked them to do something in the way of mischief to Hrut.
Presently after, Thorleik went to see his tenants, Kotkel and Grima, and asked them to do something in the way of mischief to Hrut.
They undertook this thing quite willingly and said they were all ready for it.
They undertook this thing quite willingly and said they were all ready for it.
And Thorleik went back home.
And Thorleik went back home.
After a little Kotkel and Grim and their sons set out from home. This was in the nighttime.
After a little Kotkel and Grim and their sons set out from home. This was in the nighttime.
They went to Hrut’s place and there they set about a great work of witchcraft.
They went to Hrut’s place and there they set about a great work of witchcraft.
And when the chanting of the witches broke out the folks who were indoors could not tell what it was all about, but the chanting was very sweet to hear.
And when the chanting of the witches broke out the folks who were indoors could not tell what it was all about, but the chanting was very sweet to hear.
Hrut alone understood the meaning of these sounds, and he gave orders that no one must look out of doors during the night, “and let everyone keep awake as best you can, and so we shall get no hurt of it, if you do as I say.”
Hrut alone understood the meaning of these sounds, and he gave orders that no one must look out of doors during the night, “and let everyone keep awake as best you can, and so we shall get no hurt of it, if you do as I say.”
En þó sofnuðu allir menn.
Hrútr vakði lengst ok sofnaði þó.
Kári hét sonr Hrúts, er þá var tólf vetra gamall, ok var hann efniligastr sona Hrúts.
Hann unni honum mikit.
Kári sofnaði nær ekki, því at til hans var leikr gǫrr; honum gerðisk ekki mjǫk vært.
Kári spratt upp ok sá út; hann gekk á seiðinn ok fell þegar dauðr niðr.
Hrútr vaknaði um morgininn ok hans heimamenn ok saknaði sonar síns; fannsk hann ørendr skammt frá durum.
Þetta þótti Hrúti inn mesti skaði ok lét verpa haug eptir Kára.
Síðan ríðr hann á fund Óláfs Hǫskuldssonar ok segir honum þau tíðendi, er þar hǫfðu gǫrzk.
Óláfr varð óðr við þessi tíðendi ok segir verit hafa mikla vanhyggju, er þeir hǫfðu látit setja slík illmenni it næsta sér, sem þau Kotkell váru; sagði ok Þorleik hafa sér illan hlut af deilt af málum við Hrút; en kvað þó meira at orðit, en hann mundi vilja.
Óláfr kvað þá þegar skyldu drepa þau Kotkel ok konu hans ok sonu, - “er þó ofseinat nú.”
Yet they all fell asleep.
Yet they all fell asleep.
Hrut kept awake the longest, but he too fell asleep.
Hrut kept awake the longest, but he too fell asleep.
Hrut had a son by the name of Kári, who was then twelve years old, (122) and was the most promising of Hrut’s sons.
Hrut had a son by the name of Kári, who was then twelve years old, (122) and was the most promising of Hrut’s sons.
Kári scarcely slept at all, for it was for him the magic was made. He could scarcely rest at all.
Kári scarcely slept at all, for it was for him the magic was made. He could scarcely rest at all.
Kári got up and looked out. He went on right into the magic and fell down dead.
Kári got up and looked out. He went on right into the magic and fell down dead.
Hrut and his folks awoke in the morning and presently missed his son. He was found dead not far from the door.
Hrut and his folks awoke in the morning and presently missed his son. He was found dead not far from the door.
This was a great blow to Hrut. And he raised a barrow over Kári.
This was a great blow to Hrut. And he raised a barrow over Kári.
After this he went to see Olaf Höskuldson and told him these things that had come to pass.
After this he went to see Olaf Höskuldson and told him these things that had come to pass.
Olaf fell into a passion on hearing these tidings and said it had been a great piece of carelessness and folly to let such criminals as Kotkel and his folks settle down to live right next door, and he also said that Thorleik had disgraced himself in his dealings with Hrut, although he considered that worse had come of it than Thorleik intended.
Olaf fell into a passion on hearing these tidings and said it had been a great piece of carelessness and folly to let such criminals as Kotkel and his folks settle down to live right next door, and he also said that Thorleik had disgraced himself in his dealings with Hrut, although he considered that worse had come of it than Thorleik intended.
Olaf went on to say that they had best kill Kotkel and his wife and sons right away; “though it is already over late.”
Olaf went on to say that they had best kill Kotkel and his wife and sons right away; “though it is already over late.”
Þá spyrr Þórðr, hversu brátt sá maðr myndi koma til fundar við hana.
Hon kvazk vænta, at þat myndi brátt vera.
Eptir þetta ferr Þórðr á fund Óláfs ok segir honum, at Stígandi mun eigi langt þaðan í brott; biðr hann til fara með sína menn ok ná honum.
Óláfr bregðr við skjótt ok ferr í Hundadal; er (109) þá ambáttin heimt til tals við hann; spyrr þá Óláfr, hvar bœli Stíganda væri.
Hon kvazk þat eigi vita.
Óláfr bauð at kaupa at henni, ef hon kœmi Stíganda í fœri við þá; þessu kaupa þau saman.
Um daginn ferr hon at fé sínu; kemr þá Stígandi til móts við hana.
Hon fagnar honum vel ok býðr at skoða í hǫfði honum.
Hann leggr hǫfuðit í kné henni ok sofnar skjótliga.
Þá skreiðisk hon undan hǫfði honum ok ferr til móts við þá Óláf ok segir þeim, hvar þá var komit.
Fara þeir til Stíganda ok rœða um með sér, at hann skal eigi fara sem bróðir hans, at hann skyldi þat mart sjá, er þeim yrði mein at; taka nú belg ok draga á hǫfuð honum.
Stígandi vaknaði við þetta ok bregðr nú engum viðbrǫgðum, því at margir menn váru nú um einn.
Rauf var á belgnum, ok getr Stígandi sét ǫðrum megin í hlíðina; þar var fagrt landsleg ok grasloðit;
en því var líkast, sem hvirfilvindr komi at; sneri um jǫrðunni, svá at aldregi síðan kom þar gras upp.
Þar heitir nú á Brennu.
Síðan berja þeir Stíganda grjóti í hel, ok þar var hann dysjaðr.
Óláfr efnir vel við ambáttina ok gaf henni frelsi, ok fór hon heim í Hjarðarholt.
Hallbjǫrn slíkisteinsauga rak upp ór brimi litlu síðar en honum var drekkt.
Þar heitir Knarrarnes, sem hann var kasaðr, ok gekk hann aptr mjǫk.
Then Thord asked her how soon the man was likely to come again.
Then Thord asked her how soon the man was likely to come again.
She said that she thought it would be very soon.
She said that she thought it would be very soon.
Thereupon Thord went to see Olaf and told him that Stigandi was believed to be thereabout, and asked him to come with him with his men and take him.
Thereupon Thord went to see Olaf and told him that Stigandi was believed to be thereabout, and asked him to come with him with his men and take him.
Olaf turned to immediately and went over to Hundadal. The servant woman was then brought before him. Olaf then asked where Stigandi had his den.
Olaf turned to immediately and went over to Hundadal. The servant woman was then brought before him. Olaf then asked where Stigandi had his den.
She said she did not know that.
She said she did not know that.
Olaf offered to pay her to put Stigandi in their way, and they came to terms about it.
Olaf offered to pay her to put Stigandi in their way, and they came to terms about it.
The same day she went out to look after her cattle. Stigandi presently came to her.
The same day she went out to look after her cattle. Stigandi presently came to her.
She made him welcome and offered to look through his hair for him.
She made him welcome and offered to look through his hair for him.
So he lay down with his head on her lap and very soon fell asleep.
So he lay down with his head on her lap and very soon fell asleep.
Then she slipped (125) out from under his head and went to Olaf and told them about it.
Then she slipped (125) out from under his head and went to Olaf and told them about it.
They came up on Stigandi, and they had made up their mind that he must not do what his brother had done, that he must not have a chance to turn his eyes on things and so make mischief for them. So they took a poke and drew it over his head.
They came up on Stigandi, and they had made up their mind that he must not do what his brother had done, that he must not have a chance to turn his eyes on things and so make mischief for them. So they took a poke and drew it over his head.
With this Stigandi woke up, but he made no stir, for now there were many to one man.
With this Stigandi woke up, but he made no stir, for now there were many to one man.
There was a slit in the poke and Stigandi got one look out at the hillside over against the place. It was a beautiful stretch of ground and was deep in grass.
There was a slit in the poke and Stigandi got one look out at the hillside over against the place. It was a beautiful stretch of ground and was deep in grass.
But now it was as if a whirlwind had struck it and turned the earth over, so that grass never grew there again.
But now it was as if a whirlwind had struck it and turned the earth over, so that grass never grew there again.
The place is now known as the Brenna (the Burn).
The place is now known as the Brenna (the Burn).
After this they stoned Stigandi to death and buried him under a heap of stones.
After this they stoned Stigandi to death and buried him under a heap of stones.
Olaf dealt generously with the woman and gave her her freedom, and she went with him to Hjardarholt.
Olaf dealt generously with the woman and gave her her freedom, and she went with him to Hjardarholt.
Hallbjorn Grindstone-eye was washed ashore in the surf not long after he had been drowned.
Hallbjorn Grindstone-eye was washed ashore in the surf not long after he had been drowned.
He was buried at a place called Knarrarnes, and he walked again a good deal.
He was buried at a place called Knarrarnes, and he walked again a good deal.
Líðr nú inn næsti vetr eptir dráp Kotkels.
Um várit eptir hittusk þeir brœðr, Óláfr ok Þorleikr; spurði Óláfr, hvárt Þorleikr ætlaði at halda búi sínu.
Þorleikr segir, at svá var.
Óláfr mælti: “Hins vilda ek beiða yðr, frændi, at þér breyttið ráðahag yðrum ok fœrið útan;
muntu þar þykkja sómamaðr, sem þú kemr;
en ek hygg um Hrút, frænda okkarn, at hann þykkisk kulda af kenna af skiptum yðrum;
er mér lítit um at hætta til lengr, at þit sitizk svá nær;
er Hrútr aflamikill, en synir hans ofsamenn einir ok garpar;
þykkjumk ek vant við kominn fyrir frændsemis sakar, er þér deilið illdeilum, frændr mínir.”
So the winter next following the killing of Kotkel was past.
So the winter next following the killing of Kotkel was past.
In the spring the two brothers, Olaf and Thorleik, met and Olaf raised the question as to whether Thorleik intended to go on living at Kambsnes.
In the spring the two brothers, Olaf and Thorleik, met and Olaf raised the question as to whether Thorleik intended to go on living at Kambsnes.
Thorleik told him that such was the case;
Thorleik told him that such was the case;
and Olaf said, “I have a mind to ask you, my brother, to break away and go abroad.
and Olaf said, “I have a mind to ask you, my brother, to break away and go abroad.
You will be well received wherever you go.
You will be well received wherever you go.
And I have gathered this from our uncle Hrut that what you have had to do with each other has given him a chill.
And I have gathered this from our uncle Hrut that what you have had to do with each other has given him a chill.
I do not like to run the risk of your being so near neighbors any longer.
I do not like to run the risk of your being so near neighbors any longer.
Hrut has a good deal to say, and his sons are great bullies, every one of them, headlong fellows.
Hrut has a good deal to say, and his sons are great bullies, every one of them, headlong fellows.
I shall be in a very awkward position by reason of the calls of kindred if the two of you fall out, all the while that both of you are kinsmen of mine.”
I shall be in a very awkward position by reason of the calls of kindred if the two of you fall out, all the while that both of you are kinsmen of mine.”
Óláfr sat nú í búi sínu með miklum sóma, ok eru þar allir synir hans heima ok svá Bolli, frændi þeira ok fóstbróðir.
Kjartan var mjǫk fyrir sonum Óláfs.
Þeir Kjartan ok Bolli unnusk mest; fór Kjartan hvergi þess, er eigi fylgði Bolli honum.
Kjartan fór opt til Sælingsdalslaugar; jafnan bar svá til, at Guðrún var at laugu; þótti Kjartani gott at tala við Guðrúnu, því at hon var bæði vitr ok málsnjǫll.
Þat var allra manna mál, at með þeim Kjartani ok Guðrúnu þœtti vera mest jafnræði þeira manna, er þá óxu upp.
Vinátta var ok mikil með þeim Óláfi ok Ósvífri ok jafnan heimboð, ok ekki því minnr, at kært gerðisk með inum yngrum mǫnnum.
Eitt sinn rœddi Óláfr við Kjartan: “Eigi veit ek,” segir hann, “hví mér er jafnan svá hugstœtt, er þú ferr til Lauga ok talar við Guðrúnu;
en eigi er þat fyrir því, at eigi þœtti mér Guðrún fyrir ǫllum konum ǫðrum, ok hon ein er svá kvenna, at mér þykki þér fullkosta.
Nú er þat hugboð mitt, en eigi vil ek þess spá, at vér frændr ok Laugamenn berim eigi allsendis gæfu til um vár skipti.”
Olaf was now sitting at home on his estate in great honor and esteem, with all his sons about him, as well as Bolli their cousin and foster-brother.
Olaf was now sitting at home on his estate in great honor and esteem, with all his sons about him, as well as Bolli their cousin and foster-brother.
Kjartan was altogether the foremost of Olaf’s sons.
Kjartan was altogether the foremost of Olaf’s sons.
And Kjartan and Bolli were the closest friends. So that Kjartan went nowhere but that Bolli kept him company.
And Kjartan and Bolli were the closest friends. So that Kjartan went nowhere but that Bolli kept him company.
Kjartan went often to the hot baths in Sælingsdal. And often it happened that Gudrun, too, was at the baths. To Kjartan it seemed very good to get into talk with Gudrun, for she was both wise and beautiful and a good talker.
Kjartan went often to the hot baths in Sælingsdal. And often it happened that Gudrun, too, was at the baths. To Kjartan it seemed very good to get into talk with Gudrun, for she was both wise and beautiful and a good talker.
It was all the talk that Kjartan and Gudrun would make the best matched couple of all the young folks that were growing up just then.
It was all the talk that Kjartan and Gudrun would make the best matched couple of all the young folks that were growing up just then.
At the same time there was a close friendship between Olaf and Osvif, with frequent visits back and forth, and relations grew no less cordial because the young folks were growing fond of each other.
At the same time there was a close friendship between Olaf and Osvif, with frequent visits back and forth, and relations grew no less cordial because the young folks were growing fond of each other.
On a certain day Olaf had a talk with Kjartan. “I do not know (129) why it is,” said he, “that it always weighs on my mind, your going to Laugar and keeping company with Gudrun.
On a certain day Olaf had a talk with Kjartan. “I do not know (129) why it is,” said he, “that it always weighs on my mind, your going to Laugar and keeping company with Gudrun.
It is by no means that I do not think Gudrun is to be preferred before all other women. She is the only one whom I consider to be altogether your equal.
It is by no means that I do not think Gudrun is to be preferred before all other women. She is the only one whom I consider to be altogether your equal.
But it sticks in my mind as a boding, though I am not making a prediction of it, that no good will come of it for us in the end.”
But it sticks in my mind as a boding, though I am not making a prediction of it, that no good will come of it for us in the end.”
Ásgeirr hét maðr ok var kallaðr œðikollr; hann bjó at Ásgeirsá í Víðidal; hann var sonr Auðunar skǫkuls.
Hann kom fyrst sinna kynsmanna til Íslands; hann nam Víðidal.
Annarr sonr Auðunar hét Þorgrímr hærukollr; hann var faðir Ásmundar, fǫður Grettis.
Ásgeirr œðikollr átti fimm bǫrn; sonr hans hét Auðunn, faðir Ásgeirs, fǫður Auðunar, fǫður Egils, er átti Úlfheiði, dóttur Eyjólfs ins halta; þeira sonr var Eyjólfr, er veginn var á alþingi.
Annarr sonr Ásgeirs hét Þorvaldr; hans dóttir var Dalla, er átti Ísleifr byskup; þeira sonr var Gizurr byskup.
Inn þriði sonr Ásgeirs hét Kálfr.
Allir váru synir Ásgeirs vænligir menn.
Kálfr Ásgeirsson var þann tíma í fǫrum ok þótti inn nýzti maðr.
Dóttir Ásgeirs hét Þuríðr; hon var gipt Þorkatli kugga, syni Þórðar gellis; þeira sonr var Þorsteinn.
Ǫnnur dóttir Ásgeirs hét Hrefna; hon var vænst kvenna norðr þar í sveitum ok vel vinsæl.
Ásgeirr var mikill maðr fyrir sér.
There was a man by the name of Asgeir, nicknamed Ædikoll (Hothead), who was living at Asgeirsá in the Vididal. He was a son of Audun Skokul (Shivers);
There was a man by the name of Asgeir, nicknamed Ædikoll (Hothead), who was living at Asgeirsá in the Vididal. He was a son of Audun Skokul (Shivers);
he first of all his kin came out to Iceland, and he took up the land in Vididal.
he first of all his kin came out to Iceland, and he took up the land in Vididal.
A second son of Audun’s was named Thorgrim Grayhead. He was the father of Asmund, father of Grettir.
A second son of Audun’s was named Thorgrim Grayhead. He was the father of Asmund, father of Grettir.
Asgeir Ædikoll had five children. A son of his was Audun, father of Asgeir, father of Audun, father of Egil, who married Ulfeid the daughter of Eyolf the Lame, and whose son was that Eyolf that was killed at the Althing.
Asgeir Ædikoll had five children. A son of his was Audun, father of Asgeir, father of Audun, father of Egil, who married Ulfeid the daughter of Eyolf the Lame, and whose son was that Eyolf that was killed at the Althing.
A second son of Asgeir’s was Thorvald, whose daughter Dalla was married to Bishop Isleif; Bishop Gizur was their son.
A second son of Asgeir’s was Thorvald, whose daughter Dalla was married to Bishop Isleif; Bishop Gizur was their son.
A third son of Asgeir’s was named Kalf.
A third son of Asgeir’s was named Kalf.
All of Asgeir’s sons were fine stout men.
All of Asgeir’s sons were fine stout men.
Kalf Asgeirson was in the overseas trade at this time and was said to be doing very well.
Kalf Asgeirson was in the overseas trade at this time and was said to be doing very well.
A daughter of Asgeir’s was Thurid, who was married to Thorkel Kuggi, son of Thord Gellir; they had a son by the name of Thorstein.
A daughter of Asgeir’s was Thurid, who was married to Thorkel Kuggi, son of Thord Gellir; they had a son by the name of Thorstein.
A second daughter of Asgeir’s was named Hrefna. She was the most beautiful woman in that north country and had many friends and admirers;
A second daughter of Asgeir’s was named Hrefna. She was the most beautiful woman in that north country and had many friends and admirers;
for Asgeir was a man of means and of great force.
for Asgeir was a man of means and of great force.
(114) Þat er sagt eitt sinni, at Kjartan Óláfsson byrjaði ferð sina suðr til Borgarfjarðar; ekki er getit um ferð hans, fyrr en hann kom til Borgar.
Þar bjó þá Þorsteinn Egilsson, móðurbróðir hans.
Bolli var í ferð með honum, þvi at svá var ástúðigt með þeim fóstbrœðrum, at hvárrgi þóttisk nýta mega, at þeir væri eigi ásamt.
Þorsteinn tók við Kjartani með allri blíðu; kvazk þǫkk kunna, at hann væri þar lengr en skemr.
Kjartan dvelsk at Borg um hrið.
Þetta sumar stóð skip uppi í Gufuárósi; þat skip átti Kálfr Ásgeirsson.
Hann hafði verit um vetrinn á vist með Þorsteini Egilssyni.
Kjartan segir Þorsteini í hljóði, at þat var mest ørendi hans suðr þangat, at hann vildi kaupa skip hálft at Kálfi, - “er mér á þvi hugr, at fara útan,” - ok spyrr Þorstein, hversu honum virðisk Kálfr.
It is said that once upon a time Kjartan Olafson set off south to Borg, in the Borgarfjord country.
It is said that once upon a time Kjartan Olafson set off south to Borg, in the Borgarfjord country.
His mother’s brother Thorstein Egilson lived there.
His mother’s brother Thorstein Egilson lived there.
Bolli was with him, for such was the brotherly love between them that neither was happy without the other.
Bolli was with him, for such was the brotherly love between them that neither was happy without the other.
Thorstein (131) welcomed Kjartan with the greatest affection, and said he would take it more kindly the longer he stayed with them.
Thorstein (131) welcomed Kjartan with the greatest affection, and said he would take it more kindly the longer he stayed with them.
So Kjartan stayed on at Borg for some time.
So Kjartan stayed on at Borg for some time.
There was a ship lying up at the mouth of the Gufa that summer. This ship belonged to Kalf Asgeirson.
There was a ship lying up at the mouth of the Gufa that summer. This ship belonged to Kalf Asgeirson.
He had been staying at Thorstein Egilson’s over winter.
He had been staying at Thorstein Egilson’s over winter.
Kjartan spoke to Thorstein in private and told him that much of what had brought him there was that he wanted to buy a half-interest in this ship of Kalf, “for I have a mind to go abroad,” and he went on to ask Thorstein what was his opinion of Kalf.
Kjartan spoke to Thorstein in private and told him that much of what had brought him there was that he wanted to buy a half-interest in this ship of Kalf, “for I have a mind to go abroad,” and he went on to ask Thorstein what was his opinion of Kalf.
Óláfr reið til þings um sumarit.
Kjartan reið með feðr sínum vestan ór Hjarðarholti ok skilðusk í Norðrárdal.
Þaðan reið Kjartan til skips, ok Bolli, frændi hans, var í fǫr með honum.
Tíu váru þeir íslenzkir menn saman alls, er í ferð váru með Kjartani ok engi vildi skiljask við Kjartan fyrir ástar sakar.
Ríðr Kjartan til skips við þetta fǫruneyti.
Kálfr Ásgeirsson fagnar þeim vel.
Mikit fé hǫfðu þeir útan, Kjartan ok Bolli.
Halda þeir nú á búnaði sínum, ok þegar er býr gaf, sigla þeir út eptir Borgarfirði léttan býr ok góðan ok síðan í haf.
Þeim byrjaði vel, tóku Nóreg norðr við Þrándheim, lǫgðu inn til Agðaness (116) ok hittu þar menn at máli ok spurðu tíðenda.
Þeim var sagt, at hǫfðingjaskipti var orðit í landinu; var Hákon jarl frá fallinn, en Óláfr konungr Tryggvason til kominn, ok hafði allr Nóregr fallit í hans vald.
Óláfr konungr bauð siðaskipti í Nóregi; gengu menn allmisjafnt undir þat.
Þeir Kjartan lǫgðu inn til Niðaróss skipi sínu.
Í þenna tíma váru margir menn íslenzkir í Nóregi, þeir er virðingamenn váru; lágu þar fyrir bryggjunum þrjú skip, er íslenzkir menn áttu ǫll.
Eitt skip átti Brandr inn ǫrvi, sonr Vermundar Þorgrímssonar; annat skip átti Hallfrøðr vandræðaskáld; þriðja skip áttu brœðr tveir; hét annarr Bjarni, en annarr Þórhallr; þeir váru synir Breiðár-Skeggja austan ór Fljótshlíð.
Þessir menn allir hǫfðu ætlat um sumarit út til Íslands, en konungr hafði lagt farbann fyrir skip þessi ǫll, því at þeir vildu eigi taka við sið þeim, et hann bauð.
Allir íslenzkir menn fagna vel Kjartani, en þó Brandr bezt, því at þeir váru mjǫk kunnir áðr.
Báru nú Íslendingar saman ráð sín, ok kom þat ásamt með þeim, at níta sið þeim, er konungr bauð, ok hǫfðu þessir allir samband, þeir sem fyrr váru nefndir.
Þeir Kjartan lǫgðu nú skipinu við bryggjur ok ruddu skipit ok stǫfuðu fyrir fé sínu.
Óláfr konungr var í bœnum.
Hann spyrr skipkvámu þessa ok þat með, at þar munu þeir menn margir á skipi, er mikilhæfir eru.
Olaf rode up to the Thing that summer.
Olaf rode up to the Thing that summer.
Kjartan rode up with his father eastward out of Hjardarholt as far as Nordrardal, where they parted company.
Kjartan rode up with his father eastward out of Hjardarholt as far as Nordrardal, where they parted company.
From there Kjartan rode on down to the ship, and Bolli was in company with him.
From there Kjartan rode on down to the ship, and Bolli was in company with him.
They were ten Icelanders, altogether, none of whom would willingly leave Kjartan, for friendship’s sake.
They were ten Icelanders, altogether, none of whom would willingly leave Kjartan, for friendship’s sake.
And with this company Kjartan rode down to where the ship was lying.
And with this company Kjartan rode down to where the ship was lying.
Kalf Asgeirson made them welcome.
Kalf Asgeirson made them welcome.
Much goods did Kjartan and Bolli take with them on the voyage.
Much goods did Kjartan and Bolli take with them on the voyage.
So now they got ready, and so soon as the wind favored they sailed out along the Borgarfjord with a light and steady following breeze and out to sea.
So now they got ready, and so soon as the wind favored they sailed out along the Borgarfjord with a light and steady following breeze and out to sea.
They had favorable weather. They made Norway rather to the northerly and sailed up the fjord to Drontheim, where they met people from whom they got the news.
They had favorable weather. They made Norway rather to the northerly and sailed up the fjord to Drontheim, where they met people from whom they got the news.
They were told that there had been a change of rulers in the country; that Earl Hakon had gone under and King Olaf Tryggvason had come in, and that all of Norway had passed into his power.
They were told that there had been a change of rulers in the country; that Earl Hakon had gone under and King Olaf Tryggvason had come in, and that all of Norway had passed into his power.
King Olaf had proclaimed a change of faith in Norway; and the people were submitting to it only here and there.
King Olaf had proclaimed a change of faith in Norway; and the people were submitting to it only here and there.
Kjartan’s company sailed on up the fjord to Nidaros (Drontheim).
Kjartan’s company sailed on up the fjord to Nidaros (Drontheim).
At this time there were many Icelanders in Norway who were men of some consequence. There were three ships lying along the wharves, all of which were owned by Icelanders.
At this time there were many Icelanders in Norway who were men of some consequence. There were three ships lying along the wharves, all of which were owned by Icelanders.
One of them belonged to Brand the Spendthrift, son of Vermund Thorgrimson; a second vessel belonged to Hallfred Vandrredaskald; the third was owned by two brothers, one named Bjarni, the other (133) Thorhall, sons of Breidar-Skeggi, from Fljotshlid back east.
One of them belonged to Brand the Spendthrift, son of Vermund Thorgrimson; a second vessel belonged to Hallfred Vandrredaskald; the third was owned by two brothers, one named Bjarni, the other (133) Thorhall, sons of Breidar-Skeggi, from Fljotshlid back east.
All these men had intended to sail for Iceland that summer, but the king had laid an embargo on all these ships because they were not willing to take up with the new faith which he ordained.
All these men had intended to sail for Iceland that summer, but the king had laid an embargo on all these ships because they were not willing to take up with the new faith which he ordained.
The Icelanders all welcomed Kjartan, but Brand most of all, for they knew each other well from before.
The Icelanders all welcomed Kjartan, but Brand most of all, for they knew each other well from before.
The Icelanders now consulted together and came to an agreement to reject the new faith which the king had ordained; and all of these men were bound in this agreement, all those named above.
The Icelanders now consulted together and came to an agreement to reject the new faith which the king had ordained; and all of these men were bound in this agreement, all those named above.
Kjartan and Kalf now laid their vessel alongside the wharf, discharged their cargo, and set about taking care of their goods.
Kjartan and Kalf now laid their vessel alongside the wharf, discharged their cargo, and set about taking care of their goods.
King Olaf was in the town at the time.
King Olaf was in the town at the time.
He was told of the coming of this ship, as also that there were many aboard who are men of some consequence.
He was told of the coming of this ship, as also that there were many aboard who are men of some consequence.
Veðráttu gerði harða um haustit; váru frost mikil ok kulðar.
Heiðnir menn segja þat eigi undarligt, at veðrátta léti illa, - “geldr at nýbreytni konungs ok þessa ins nýja siðar, er goðin hafa reizk.”
Íslendingar váru allir saman um vetrinn í bœnum; var Kjartan mjǫk fyrir þeim.
Veðrátta batnar, ok kómu menn fjǫlmennt þá til bœjarins at orðsending Óláfs konungs.
Margir menn hǫfðu við kristni tekit í Þrándheimi, en hinir váru þó miklú fleiri, er í móti váru.
Einnhvern dag átti konungr þing í bœnum út á Eyrum ok talaði trú fyrir mǫnnum, langt ørendi ok (119) snjallt.
Þrœndir hǫfðu her manns ok buðu konungi bardaga í mót.
Konungr kvað þá vita skyldu, at hann þóttisk átt hafa við meira ofrefli en berjask þar við þorpara í Þrándheimi.
Skaut þá bóndum skelk í bringu ok lǫgðu allt á konungs vald, ok var mart fólk þá skírt.
En síðan var slitit þinginu.
Þetta sama kveld sendir konungr menn til herbergis Íslendinga ok bað þá verða vísa, hvat þeir talaði.
Þeir gera svá; var þar inn at heyra glaumr mikill.
Þá tók Kjartan til orða ok mælti til Bolla: “Hversu fúss ertu, frændi, at taka við trú þeiri, er konungr býðr?”
Stormy weather came on in the fall, with frost and a severe cold.
Stormy weather came on in the fall, with frost and a severe cold.
The heathen were saying it was no wonder if the weather turned bad that fall. It came of the new-fangled ways of the king and the new faith, all of which made the gods angry.
The heathen were saying it was no wonder if the weather turned bad that fall. It came of the new-fangled ways of the king and the new faith, all of which made the gods angry.
The Icelanders in the town held close together through the winter, and Kjartan was something of a leader among them.
The Icelanders in the town held close together through the winter, and Kjartan was something of a leader among them.
In time the weather (135) improved and then the people gathered together into the town in large numbers at the summons of King Olaf.
In time the weather (135) improved and then the people gathered together into the town in large numbers at the summons of King Olaf.
In the Drontheim country there were many who had taken up with the Christian faith, although there were many more who stood out against it.
In the Drontheim country there were many who had taken up with the Christian faith, although there were many more who stood out against it.
On a certain day the king called a Thing in the town, down by the beach, and he spoke long and eloquently for the faith.
On a certain day the king called a Thing in the town, down by the beach, and he spoke long and eloquently for the faith.
The people of the countryside had an army of men on hand and offered the king a fight in reply.
The people of the countryside had an army of men on hand and offered the king a fight in reply.
The king told them they ought to know that he had already had to do with more formidable warfare than a fight with the villagers of Drontheim.
The king told them they ought to know that he had already had to do with more formidable warfare than a fight with the villagers of Drontheim.
The countryfolk were scared and threw themselves on the king’s mercy, and a large number of them were baptized at that time.
The countryfolk were scared and threw themselves on the king’s mercy, and a large number of them were baptized at that time.
That same evening the king sent men privately, with orders to the Icelanders’ lodgings to find out what they were saying.
That same evening the king sent men privately, with orders to the Icelanders’ lodgings to find out what they were saying.
So they did. There was a great uproar in the place.
So they did. There was a great uproar in the place.
Kjartan spoke up and said to Bolli, “How ready are you, Cousin, to take up with this faith which the king is proclaiming?”
Kjartan spoke up and said to Bolli, “How ready are you, Cousin, to take up with this faith which the king is proclaiming?”
(120) Kjartan kvað áræðit flestum bila, þótt allgóðir karlmenn væri.
Bolli kvað þat vant at sjá, hverjum hugar þyrfti at frýja; en margir tóku undir, at þetta væri þarfleysutal.
Ok er konungsmenn hǫfðu þessa varír orðit, þá fóru þeir í brott ok segja konungi þetta tal allt.
Um morgininn eptir vill konungr þing hafa; er nú til stefnt ǫllum Ísleifs mǫnnum.
Ok er þingit var sett, þá stóð konungr upp ok þakkaði mǫnnum þangatkvámu, þeim er hans vinir vildu vera ok við trú hǫfðu tekit.
Hann heimti til tals við sik Íslendinga.
Konungr spyrr, ef þeir vildi skírn taka.
Þeir rœma þat lítt.
Konungr segir, at þeir myndi þann kost velja sér til handa, er þeim gegndi verr, - “eða hverjum yðrum þótti þat ráðligast, at brenna mik inni?”
Kjartan remarked that most men were likely to stumble at the onset even though they were good and stout men.
Kjartan remarked that most men were likely to stumble at the onset even though they were good and stout men.
Bolli replied that it was not easy to say just who might need the spur. Then one and another spoke up and said that all this was useless talk.
Bolli replied that it was not easy to say just who might need the spur. Then one and another spoke up and said that all this was useless talk.
When the king’s spies had heard this much they went their way and told the king all these things that had been said.
When the king’s spies had heard this much they went their way and told the king all these things that had been said.
The next morning the king called a Thing. To this all the Icelanders were summoned.
The next morning the king called a Thing. To this all the Icelanders were summoned.
And when the meeting had been called to order the king stood up and thanked the folks for coming to the meeting, all those who were friendly to him and had accepted the faith.
And when the meeting had been called to order the king stood up and thanked the folks for coming to the meeting, all those who were friendly to him and had accepted the faith.
He called up the Icelanders.
He called up the Icelanders.
The king asked if they were willing to be baptized.
The king asked if they were willing to be baptized.
They had very little to say for it.
They had very little to say for it.
The king told them they were making a choice which was likely to be all the worse for themselves. ”And now, which one of you was it,” said he, “who thought it would be a good thing to burn me up in my house?”
The king told them they were making a choice which was likely to be all the worse for themselves. ”And now, which one of you was it,” said he, “who thought it would be a good thing to burn me up in my house?”
“Sjá má ek þik,” segir konungr, “ok eigi smáráðan;
en eigi mun þér þess auðit verða, at standa yfir hǫfuðsvǫrðum mínum, ok œrna hefir þú sǫk til þess, þóttú heitaðisk eigi við fleiri konunga inni at brenna fyrir þá sǫk, er þér væri it betra kennt;
en fyrir þat, er ek vissa eigi, hvárt hugr fylgði máli þínu, en drengiliga við gengit, þá skal þik eigi af lífi taka fyrir þessa sǫk;
kann ok vera, at þú haldir því betr trúna, sem þú mælir meir í móti henni en aðrir;
kann ek ok þat at skilja, at þat mun skipshǫfnum skipta, at þann dag munu við trú taka, er þú lætr ónauðigr skírask;
þykki mér ok á því líkendi, at frændr yðrir ok vinir muni mjǫk á þat hlýða, hvat þér talið fyrir þeim, er þér komið út til Íslands;
er þat ok nær mínu hugboði, at þú, Kjartan, (121) hafir betra sið, er þú siglir af Nóregi, en þá er þú komt hingat.
Farið nú í friði ok í griðum, hvert er þér vilið af þessum fundi; skal eigi pynda yðr til kristni at sinni, því at guð mælir svá, at hann vill, at engi komi nauðigr til hans.”
“I can see you quite plainly,” said the king; “and also that you are not of the humble sort.
“I can see you quite plainly,” said the king; “and also that you are not of the humble sort.
But you are not fated to rest your feet on my scalp. Indeed you deserve to be given such a lesson that you should never again plot the burning of any more kings.
But you are not fated to rest your feet on my scalp. Indeed you deserve to be given such a lesson that you should never again plot the burning of any more kings.
But because I am not sure whether your will goes with your words in all this, and because you have owned up to it like a man, therefore I am not going to have you put to death for what you have done.
But because I am not sure whether your will goes with your words in all this, and because you have owned up to it like a man, therefore I am not going to have you put to death for what you have done.
So also it may turn out that (137) you will keep the faith all the better for having been more outspoken against it than many others.
So also it may turn out that (137) you will keep the faith all the better for having been more outspoken against it than many others.
Also I am aware that it may count for something with your shipmates, so that they too will be likely to accept the faith on the same day when you are baptized without being driven to it.
Also I am aware that it may count for something with your shipmates, so that they too will be likely to accept the faith on the same day when you are baptized without being driven to it.
And then, too, it seems likely to me that your folks and friends will listen closely to what you may have to tell them when you get back to Iceland.
And then, too, it seems likely to me that your folks and friends will listen closely to what you may have to tell them when you get back to Iceland.
And I am pretty well persuaded, Kjartan, that you will own a better religion by the time you sail out of Norway than when you came here.
And I am pretty well persuaded, Kjartan, that you will own a better religion by the time you sail out of Norway than when you came here.
Now go your ways in peace and amity, wherever you like. I am not going to coerce you into the Christian faith with pains and penalties at this time; for God himself has said that he will have no one come to him unwillingly.”
Now go your ways in peace and amity, wherever you like. I am not going to coerce you into the Christian faith with pains and penalties at this time; for God himself has said that he will have no one come to him unwillingly.”
Síðan váru þeir Kjartan ok Bolli skírðir ok ǫll skipshǫfn þeira ok fjǫlði annarra manna.
Þetta var annan dag jóla fyrir tíðir.
Síðan bauð konungr Kjartani í jólaboð sitt ok svá Bolla, frænda hans.
Þat er sǫgn flestra manna, at Kjartan hafi þann dag gǫrzk handgenginn Óláfi konungi, er hann var atburð ór hvítaváðum, ok þeir Bolli báðir.
Hallfrøðr var eigi skírðr þann dag, því at hann skilði þat til, at konungr sjálfr skyldi halda honum undir skírn; konungr lagði þat til annan dag eptir.
Kjartan ok Bolli váru með Óláfi konungi, þat er eptir var vetrarins.
Konungr mat Kjartan umfram alla menn fyrir sakar ættar sinnar ok atgørvi, ok er þat alsagt, at Kjartan væri þar svá vinsæll, at hann átti sér engan ǫfundarmann innan hirðar;
var þat ok allra manna mál, at engi hefði slíkr maðr komit af Íslandi sem Kjartan.
Bolli var ok inn vaskasti maðr ok metinn vel af góðum mǫnnum.
Líðr nú vetr sjá; ok er várar, búask menn ferða sinna, svá hverr sem ætlaði.
Hereupon Kjartan and Bolli were baptized, together with all their shipmates and a large number of men besides.
Hereupon Kjartan and Bolli were baptized, together with all their shipmates and a large number of men besides.
This was the second day of Christmas, before mass.
This was the second day of Christmas, before mass.
The king then invited Kjartan to his Christmas feast, together with his cousin Bolli.
The king then invited Kjartan to his Christmas feast, together with his cousin Bolli.
It is commonly said that Kjartan was made the king’s man on the same day, as soon as they had put off the baptismal white-clothes, together with his cousin Bolli.
It is commonly said that Kjartan was made the king’s man on the same day, as soon as they had put off the baptismal white-clothes, together with his cousin Bolli.
Hallfred was not baptized on that day, because he made it a condition that the king himself stand sponsor to him, and the king fixed the time for the next day after.
Hallfred was not baptized on that day, because he made it a condition that the king himself stand sponsor to him, and the king fixed the time for the next day after.
Kjartan and Bolli passed the rest of the winter at King Olaf’s court.
Kjartan and Bolli passed the rest of the winter at King Olaf’s court.
The king preferred Kjartan above all other men, because of his family as well as of his own personal merit; and it is agreed on all hands that Kjartan was so well beloved at court that he had no enemy among them all.
The king preferred Kjartan above all other men, because of his family as well as of his own personal merit; and it is agreed on all hands that Kjartan was so well beloved at court that he had no enemy among them all.
So also they are all agreed that no man the like of Kjartan had ever before come out of Iceland.
So also they are all agreed that no man the like of Kjartan had ever before come out of Iceland.
Bolli, (140) too, was a stout and gallant man and was thought much of by the best people.
Bolli, (140) too, was a stout and gallant man and was thought much of by the best people.
So that winter went by, and when spring came around men got themselves ready to go their ways, each as he thought best.
So that winter went by, and when spring came around men got themselves ready to go their ways, each as he thought best.
Konungr gaf Kjartani ǫll klæði nýskorin af skarlati; sǫmðu honum þau, því at þat sǫgðu (125) menn, at þeir hafi jafnmiklir menn verit, þá er þeir gengu undir mál, Óláfr konungr ok Kjartan.
Óláfr konungr sendi til Íslands hirðprest sinn, er Þangbrandr hét;
hann kom skipi sínu í Álptafjǫrð ok var með Síðu-Hálli um vetrinn, at Þváttá, ok boðaði mǫnnum trú bæði með blíðum orðum ok hǫrðum refsingum.
Þangbrandr vá tvá menn, þá er mest mæltu í móti.
Hallr tók trú um várit ok var skírðr þváttdaginn fyrir páska ok ǫll hjón hans, ok þá lét Gizurr hvíti skírask ok Hjalti Skeggjason ok margir aðrir hǫfðingjar,
en þó váru þeir miklu fleiri, er í móti mæltu, ok gerðisk þá trautt óhætt með heiðnum mǫnnum ok kristnum.
Gerðu hǫfðingjar ráð sitt, at þeir myndi drepa Þangbrand ok þá menn, er honum vildu veita forstoð.
Fyrir þessum ófriði stǫkk Þangbrandr til Nóregs ok kom á fund Óláfs konungs ok sagði honum, hvat til tíðenda hafði borit í sinni ferð, ok kvazk þat hyggja, at eigi myndi kristni við gangask á Íslandi.
Konungr verðr þessu reiðr mjǫk ok kvazk þat ætla, at margir Íslendingar myndi kenna á sínum hlut, nema þeir riði sjálfir á vit sín.
Þat sama sumar varð Hjalti Skeggjason sekr á þingi um goðgá.
Runólfr Úlfsson sótti hann, er bjó í Dal undir Eyjafjǫllum, inn mesti hǫfðingi.
Þat sumar fór Gizurr útan ok Hjalti með honum, taka Nóreg ok fara þegar á fund Óláfs konungs.
Konungr tekr þeim (126) vel ok kvað þá hafa vel ór ráðit ok bauð þeim með sér at vera, ok þat þiggja þeir.
Þá hafði Svertingr, sonr Runólfs ór Dal, verit í Nóregi um vetrinn ok ætlaði til Íslands um sumarit; flaut þá skip hans fyrir bryggjum albúit ok beið byrjar.
Konungr bannaði honum brottferð; kvað engi skip skyldu ganga til Íslands þat sumar.
Svertingr gekk á konungs fund ok flutti mál sitt, bað sér orlofs ok kvað sér miklu máli skipta, at þeir bæri eigi farminn af skipinu.
Konungr mælti ok var þá reiðr: “Vel er, at þar sé sonr blótmannsins, er honum þykkir verra;” - ok fór Svertingr hvergi.
Var þann vetr allt tíðendalaust.
Um sumarit eptir sendi konungr þá Gizur hvíta ok Hjalta Skeggjason til Íslands at boða trú enn af nýju, en hann tók fjóra menn at gíslum eptir: Kjartan Óláfsson, Halldór, son Guðmundar ins ríka, ok Kolbein, son Þórðar Freysgoða, ok Sverting, son Runólfs ór Dal.
Þá ræzk ok Bolli til farar með þeim Gizuri ok Hjalta.
Síðan gengr hann at hitta Kjartan, frænda sinn, ok mælti: “Nú em ek búinn til ferðar, ok mynda ek bíða þín inn næsta vetr, ef at sumri væri lausligra um þína ferð en nú;
en vér þykkjumsk hitt skilja, at konungr vill fyrir engan mun þik lausan láta, en hǫfum þat fyrir satt, at þú munir fátt þat, er á Íslandi er til skemmtanar, þá er þú sitr á tali við Ingibjǫrgu konungssystur.”
He then gave to Kjartan full clothing new made out of scarlet cloth. These garments became him well, for men say that they were very much the same stature, King Olaf and Kjartan, when brought under measure.
He then gave to Kjartan full clothing new made out of scarlet cloth. These garments became him well, for men say that they were very much the same stature, King Olaf and Kjartan, when brought under measure.
So King Olaf sent his court chaplain out to Iceland, Thangbrand by name.
So King Olaf sent his court chaplain out to Iceland, Thangbrand by name.
He sailed to Alftafjord and stayed through the winter with Sidu-Hall at Thvatta, where he preached the faith to the folk both with fair words and with harsh penalties.
He sailed to Alftafjord and stayed through the winter with Sidu-Hall at Thvatta, where he preached the faith to the folk both with fair words and with harsh penalties.
Thangbrand killed two of those who most opposed him.
Thangbrand killed two of those who most opposed him.
Hall accepted the faith in the spring and was baptized on the Saturday before Easter, together with all his household. At the same time Gizur the White was also baptized, and Hjalti Skeggjason and many others of the leading men.
Hall accepted the faith in the spring and was baptized on the Saturday before Easter, together with all his household. At the same time Gizur the White was also baptized, and Hjalti Skeggjason and many others of the leading men.
Yet they were many more who stood out; and the peace was no longer secure between the pagans and the Christians.
Yet they were many more who stood out; and the peace was no longer secure between the pagans and the Christians.
The chieftains of the countryside met together and came to an understanding that they would kill Thangbrand and those men who were backing him.
The chieftains of the countryside met together and came to an understanding that they would kill Thangbrand and those men who were backing him.
In the face of this outbreak Thangbrand got away and returned to Norway, went before King Olaf and told him of the adventures he had met with in the course of his expedition, and gave it as his opinion that Christianity could not be established in Iceland.
In the face of this outbreak Thangbrand got away and returned to Norway, went before King Olaf and told him of the adventures he had met with in the course of his expedition, and gave it as his opinion that Christianity could not be established in Iceland.
The king was moved to great anger at all this and promised that many an Icelander would have reason to be sorry for it unless they came to reason of their own accord.
The king was moved to great anger at all this and promised that many an Icelander would have reason to be sorry for it unless they came to reason of their own accord.
That same summer Hjalti Skeggjason was made outlaw at the Althing for blasphemy.
That same summer Hjalti Skeggjason was made outlaw at the Althing for blasphemy.
It was Runolf Ulfson brought suit against him, a powerful chieftain who lived at Dal below the Eyjafells.
It was Runolf Ulfson brought suit against him, a powerful chieftain who lived at Dal below the Eyjafells.
Gizur sailed to Norway that summer, and Hjalti with him. They reached Norway and directly went before the king.
Gizur sailed to Norway that summer, and Hjalti with him. They reached Norway and directly went before the king.
The king welcomed them graciously, told them they had acquitted (143) themselves well, and invited them to stay with him. This they accepted.
The king welcomed them graciously, told them they had acquitted (143) themselves well, and invited them to stay with him. This they accepted.
Sverting, the son of Runolf of Dal, had been in Norway the past winter and was intending to sail for Iceland that summer. His ship was already lying alongside the wharf loaded and waiting for the wind.
Sverting, the son of Runolf of Dal, had been in Norway the past winter and was intending to sail for Iceland that summer. His ship was already lying alongside the wharf loaded and waiting for the wind.
The king refused to let him leave. He ordered that no vessel should sail for Iceland that season.
The king refused to let him leave. He ordered that no vessel should sail for Iceland that season.
Sverting came before the king and presented his case, begged leave to go and said it would mean a great deal to him not to be forced to unload his cargo.
Sverting came before the king and presented his case, begged leave to go and said it would mean a great deal to him not to be forced to unload his cargo.
The king told him, and he was angry, “It is a good thing that the idolater’s son will be staying where he had rather not.” So Sverting did not get away.
The king told him, and he was angry, “It is a good thing that the idolater’s son will be staying where he had rather not.” So Sverting did not get away.
Nothing to speak of happened that winter.
Nothing to speak of happened that winter.
The following summer the king sent Gizur the White and Hjalti Skeggjason out to Iceland to proclaim the faith once more, and he held back four men as hostages: Kjartan Olafson; Haldor, the son of Gudmund the Great; Kolbein, the son of Thord Freysgodi; and Sverting, the son of Runolf of Dal.
The following summer the king sent Gizur the White and Hjalti Skeggjason out to Iceland to proclaim the faith once more, and he held back four men as hostages: Kjartan Olafson; Haldor, the son of Gudmund the Great; Kolbein, the son of Thord Freysgodi; and Sverting, the son of Runolf of Dal.
Bolli, too, made ready to leave in company with Gizur and Hjalti.
Bolli, too, made ready to leave in company with Gizur and Hjalti.
He then went to see his cousin Kjartan and told him, “I am now ready to leave. I should wait over next winter for you if you were any more free to leave then than now.
He then went to see his cousin Kjartan and told him, “I am now ready to leave. I should wait over next winter for you if you were any more free to leave then than now.
But we have all come to believe that the king will by no means let you loose. And then, too, it is believed that you take little thought of anything that might otherwise seem desirable in Iceland, all the while that you are keeping company with the king’s sister Ingibjorg.”
But we have all come to believe that the king will by no means let you loose. And then, too, it is believed that you take little thought of anything that might otherwise seem desirable in Iceland, all the while that you are keeping company with the king’s sister Ingibjorg.”
Eptir þat skiljask, þeir Kjartan ok Bolli.
Gizurr ok Hjalti sigla af Noregi ok verða vel reiðfara; koma at þingi í Vestmannaeyjar ok fara til meginlands; eigu þar stefnur ok tal við frændr sína.
Síðan fara þeir til alþingis ok tǫlðu trú fyrir mǫnnum, bæði langt ørendi ok snjallt, ok tóku þá allir menn trú á Íslandi.
Bolli reið í Hjarðarholt af þingi með Óláfi, frænda sínum; tók hann við honum með mikilli blíðu.
Bolli reið til Lauga at skemmta sér, þá er hann hafði litla hríð verit heima; var honum þar vel fagnat.
Guðrún spurði vandliga um ferðir hans, en því næst at Kjartani.
Bolli leysti ofléttliga ór því ǫllu, er Guðrún spurði;
kvað allt tíðendalaust um ferðir sínar, - “en þat er kemr til Kjartans, þá er þat með miklum ágætum at segja satt frá hans kosti, því at hann er í hirð Óláfs konungs ok metinn þar umfram hvern mann.
En ekki kemr mér at óvǫrum, þó at hans hafi hér í landi litlar nytjar ina næstu vetr.”
So Kjartan and Bolli then took leave of one another.
So Kjartan and Bolli then took leave of one another.
Gizur and Hjalti set sail out of Norway and made a good and speedy passage. They reached the Vestmanna Islands at the time of the Thing and crossed over to the mainland. There they met and talked things over with their kinsfolk,
Gizur and Hjalti set sail out of Norway and made a good and speedy passage. They reached the Vestmanna Islands at the time of the Thing and crossed over to the mainland. There they met and talked things over with their kinsfolk,
after which they went on up to the Althing and spoke for the faith before the people, at length and eloquently, and all the people of Iceland accepted the faith at that time.
after which they went on up to the Althing and spoke for the faith before the people, at length and eloquently, and all the people of Iceland accepted the faith at that time.
Bolli rode home to Hjardarholt after the Thing in company with his uncle Olaf, and he made him welcome in the most friendly fashion.
Bolli rode home to Hjardarholt after the Thing in company with his uncle Olaf, and he made him welcome in the most friendly fashion.
Bolli rode over to Laugar, to pass the time, after he had been home a little while, and he was well received.
Bolli rode over to Laugar, to pass the time, after he had been home a little while, and he was well received.
Gudrun inquired particularly about his travels, and also about Kjartan.
Gudrun inquired particularly about his travels, and also about Kjartan.
Bolli had a ready answer for everything that Gudrun asked about.
Bolli had a ready answer for everything that Gudrun asked about.
He said there was nothing to tell of his own doings, “But as for Kjartan, there is in truth much to be told to his credit. For he is now in King Olaf’s court and is preferred above all other men there.
He said there was nothing to tell of his own doings, “But as for Kjartan, there is in truth much to be told to his credit. For he is now in King Olaf’s court and is preferred above all other men there.
But it will not surprise me if we see little of him in this country the next few years.”
But it will not surprise me if we see little of him in this country the next few years.”
Ok er Ósvífr tók þetta mál svá þvert, þá fyrirtók Guðrún eigi fyrir sína hǫnd ok var þó in tregasta í ǫllu.
Synir Ósvífrs fysa þessa mjǫk; þykkir sér mikil slœgja til mægða við Bolla.
Ok hvárt sem at (130) þessum málum var setit lengr eða skemr, þá rézk þat af, at þar fóru festar fram, ok kveðit á brullaupsstefnu um vetrnátta skeið.
Síðan ríðr Bolli heim í Hjarðarholt ok segir Óláfi þessa ráðastofnun.
Hann lætr sér fátt um finnask.
Er Bolli heima, þar til er hann skal boðit sœkja.
Bolli bauð Óláfi, frænda sínum, en Óláfr var þess ekki fljótr ok fór þó at bœn Bolla.
Veizla var virðulig at Laugum.
Bolli var þar eptir um vetrinn.
Ekki var mart í samfǫrum þeira Bolla af Guðrúnar hendi.
So then, seeing that Osvif was so set on it, Gudrun did not make a downright refusal of it, and yet she showed the greatest reluctance through it all.
So then, seeing that Osvif was so set on it, Gudrun did not make a downright refusal of it, and yet she showed the greatest reluctance through it all.
Osvif’s sons, too, urged it on her; so much did they count on the advantage of having Bolli for a brother-in-law.
Osvif’s sons, too, urged it on her; so much did they count on the advantage of having Bolli for a brother-in-law.
So the long and short of all these considerations was that terms were arrived at and pledges given and the wedding-day was fixed for the Winter Nights (late October).
So the long and short of all these considerations was that terms were arrived at and pledges given and the wedding-day was fixed for the Winter Nights (late October).
Bolli then rode back home to Hjardarholt and told Olaf of this arrangement.
Bolli then rode back home to Hjardarholt and told Olaf of this arrangement.
He had little to say to it.
He had little to say to it.
Bolli stayed at home till the time of the wedding.
Bolli stayed at home till the time of the wedding.
Bolli invited his kinsman Olaf, and Olaf was in no humor to go, but went after all on Bolli’s insistent asking.
Bolli invited his kinsman Olaf, and Olaf was in no humor to go, but went after all on Bolli’s insistent asking.
It was a very fair wedding feast at Laugar.
It was a very fair wedding feast at Laugar.
Bolli stayed there through the winter.
Bolli stayed there through the winter.
Their wedded life was not very affectionate, on Gudrun’s side.
Their wedded life was not very affectionate, on Gudrun’s side.
Þeir Kjartan ok Kálfr sigla nú í haf.
Þeim byrjaði vel ok váru litla hríð úti; tóku Hvítá í Borgarfirði.
Þessi tíðendi spyrjask víða, útkváma Kjartans.
Þetta fréttir Óláfr, faðir hans, ok aðrir frændr hans ok verða fegnir mjǫk;
ríðr Óláfr þegar vestan ór Dǫlum ok suðr til Borgarfjarðar; verðr þar mikill fagnafundr með þeim feðgum;
býðr Óláfr Kjartani til sín við svá marga menn, sem hann vildi.
Kjartan tók því vel, kvazk sér þá eina vist ætla at hafa á Íslandi.
Ríðr Óláfr nú heim í Hjarðarholt, en Kjartan er at skipi um sumarit.
Hann spyrr nú gjaforð Guðrúnar ok brá sér ekki við þat; en mǫrgum var á því kvíðustaðr áðr.
Guðmundr Sǫlmundarson, mágr Kjartans, ok Þuríðr, systir hans, kómu til skips.
Kjartan fagnar þeim vel.
Ásgeirr œðikollr kom ok til skips at finna (133) Kálf, son sinn.
Þar var í ferð með honum Hrefna, dóttir hans; hon var in fríðasta kona.
Kjartan bauð Þuríði, systur sinni, at hafa slíkt af varningi, sem hon vildi.
Slíkt it sama mælti Kálfr við Hrefnu.
Kálfr lýkr nú upp einni mikilli kistu ok bað þær þar til ganga.
Um daginn gerði á hvasst veðr, ok hljópu þeir Kjartan þá út at festa skip sitt, ok er þeir hǫfðu því lokit, ganga þeir heim til búðanna; gengr Kálfr inn fyrri í búðina.
Þær Þuríðr ok Hrefna hafa þá mjǫk brotit upp ór kistunni.
Þá þrífr Hrefna upp motrinn ok rekr í sundr; tala þær um, at þat sé in mesta gersemi.
Þá segir Hrefna, at hon vill falda sér við motrinn.
Þuríðr kvað þat ráðligt, ok nú gerir Hrefna svá.
Kálfr sér þetta ok lét eigi hafa vel til tekizk ok bað hana taka ofan sem skjótast, - “því at sjá einn er svá hlutr, at vit Kjartan eigum eigi báðir saman.”
So Kjartan and Kalf put to sea.
So Kjartan and Kalf put to sea.
The wind favored them, and they were out but a little while and came into the Hvitá in Borgarfjord.
The wind favored them, and they were out but a little while and came into the Hvitá in Borgarfjord.
The news spread quickly of Kjartan’s coming.
The news spread quickly of Kjartan’s coming.
His father Olaf heard of it and his other kinsfolk, and they were all glad of it.
His father Olaf heard of it and his other kinsfolk, and they were all glad of it.
Olaf at once rode down out of the Dales and south into Borgarfjord, and it was a joyous meeting of father and son.
Olaf at once rode down out of the Dales and south into Borgarfjord, and it was a joyous meeting of father and son.
Olaf invited Kjartan home with him with as many men as he chose to bring.
Olaf invited Kjartan home with him with as many men as he chose to bring.
Kjartan was glad to accept, and said he was expecting to come there to stay.
Kjartan was glad to accept, and said he was expecting to come there to stay.
Olaf then rode back home to Hjardarholt and Kjartan stayed by the ship through the summer.
Olaf then rode back home to Hjardarholt and Kjartan stayed by the ship through the summer.
He now heard of Gudrun’s marriage, but showed no feeling on that account. Many a one had been somewhat anxious about it beforehand.
He now heard of Gudrun’s marriage, but showed no feeling on that account. Many a one had been somewhat anxious about it beforehand.
Gudmund Solmundarson, Kjartan’s brother-in-law, and his sister Thurid came down to the ship.
Gudmund Solmundarson, Kjartan’s brother-in-law, and his sister Thurid came down to the ship.
Asgeir Ædikoll, too, came to meet his son Kalf.
Asgeir Ædikoll, too, came to meet his son Kalf.
With him came his daughter Hrefna. She was an uncommonly handsome woman.
With him came his daughter Hrefna. She was an uncommonly handsome woman.
Kjartan asked his sister Thurid to take anything she liked of the goods,
Kjartan asked his sister Thurid to take anything she liked of the goods,
and Kalf did the like by Hrefna.
and Kalf did the like by Hrefna.
Kalf now opened a large chest and told them to come and see.
Kalf now opened a large chest and told them to come and see.
During the day a sharp squall came up, and Kjartan and Kalf ran out to tie up their ship, and when that was done they returned to the booths.
During the day a sharp squall came up, and Kjartan and Kalf ran out to tie up their ship, and when that was done they returned to the booths.
Thurid and Hrefna had nearly emptied the chest.
Thurid and Hrefna had nearly emptied the chest.
Just then Hrefna brought out the Bonnet and spread it open, and the two were telling each other (151) that it was a rare treasure.
Just then Hrefna brought out the Bonnet and spread it open, and the two were telling each other (151) that it was a rare treasure.
Then Hrefna said she was going to try the Bonnet on.
Then Hrefna said she was going to try the Bonnet on.
Thurid said that would be all right, and Hrefna then did so.
Thurid said that would be all right, and Hrefna then did so.
Kalf happened to see it and said they were making a mistake, “for this is the one piece of goods which Kjartan and I do not own in common.”
Kalf happened to see it and said they were making a mistake, “for this is the one piece of goods which Kjartan and I do not own in common.”
Hrefna tekr nú ofan faldinn ok selr Kjartani motrinn, ok hann varðveitir.
Guðmundr ok þau Þuríðr buðu Kjartani norðr þangat (134) til sín til kynnisvistar um vetrinn.
Kjartan hét ferð sinni.
Kálfr Ásgeirsson rézk norðr með feðr sínum.
Skipta þeir Kjartan nú félagi sínu, ok fór þat allt í makendi ok vinskap.
Kjartan ríðr ok frá skipi ok vestr í Dali.
Þeir váru tólf saman.
Kemr Kjartan heim í Hjarðarbolt, ok verða allir menn honum fegnir.
Kjartan lætr flytja fé sitt sunnan frá skipi um haustit.
Þessir tólf menn, er vestr riðu með Kjartani, váru allir í Hjarðarholti um vetrinn.
Þeir Óláfr ok Ósvífr heldu inum sama hætti um heimboð; skyldu sitt haust hvárir aðra heim sœkja.
Þetta haust skyldi vera boð at Laugum, en Óláfr til sœkja ok þeir Hjarðhyltingar.
Guðrún mælti nú við Bolla, at henni þótti hann eigi hafa sér allt satt til sagt um útkvámu Kjartans.
Bolli kvazk þat sagt hafa, sem hann vissi þar af sannast.
Guðrún talaði fátt til þessa efnis, en þat var auðfynt, at henni líkaði illa, því at þat ætluðu flestir menn, at henni væri enn mikil eftirsjá at um Kjartan, þó at hon hylði yfir.
Líðr nú þar til, er haustboðit skyldi vera at Laugum.
Óláfr bjósk til ferðar ok bað Kjartan fara með sér.
Kjartan kvazk mundu heima vera at gæta bús.
Óláfr bað hann eigi þat gera, at styggjask við frændr sina;
- “minnsktu á þat, Kjartan, at þú hefir engum manni jafnmikit unnt sem Bolla, fóstbróður þínum.
Er þat minn vili, at þú farir.
Mun ok brátt semjask með ykkr frændum, ef þit finnizk sjálfir.”
Hrefna took the Bonnet off and handed it to Kjartan and he put it away.
Hrefna took the Bonnet off and handed it to Kjartan and he put it away.
Gudmund and Thurid invited Kjartan to visit them in the north in the winter,
Gudmund and Thurid invited Kjartan to visit them in the north in the winter,
and Kjartan promised to come.
and Kjartan promised to come.
Kalf Asgeirson was going north with his father.
Kalf Asgeirson was going north with his father.
So Kjartan and he dissolved partnership, and all was settled fairly and amicably.
So Kjartan and he dissolved partnership, and all was settled fairly and amicably.
Kjartan too left the ship and rode away westward into the Dales.
Kjartan too left the ship and rode away westward into the Dales.
They were a company of twelve.
They were a company of twelve.
So Kjartan came back home to Hjardarholt and was made welcome by them all.
So Kjartan came back home to Hjardarholt and was made welcome by them all.
Kjartan had his goods carried home from the ship in the fall.
Kjartan had his goods carried home from the ship in the fall.
The twelve of them all stayed at Hjardarholt over winter.
The twelve of them all stayed at Hjardarholt over winter.
Olaf and Osvif held to their settled way of visiting back and forth; each was the other’s guest every other autumn.
Olaf and Osvif held to their settled way of visiting back and forth; each was the other’s guest every other autumn.
Now Gudrun spoke to Bolli; that she believed he had not told her the whole truth about Kjartan’s coming back from Norway.
Now Gudrun spoke to Bolli; that she believed he had not told her the whole truth about Kjartan’s coming back from Norway.
But Bolli said he had told the truth according to the best of his knowledge and belief.
But Bolli said he had told the truth according to the best of his knowledge and belief.
Gudrun had little to say about all this, but it was plain to (152) be seen that she did not like it. And the common talk was that she still was very fond of Kjartan, however much she covered it over.
Gudrun had little to say about all this, but it was plain to (152) be seen that she did not like it. And the common talk was that she still was very fond of Kjartan, however much she covered it over.
This year the autumn feast was to be at Laugar. Olaf and the Hjardarholt folk were to be the guests. And the time now was coming on when the autumn festival was due at Laugar.
This year the autumn feast was to be at Laugar. Olaf and the Hjardarholt folk were to be the guests. And the time now was coming on when the autumn festival was due at Laugar.
Olaf made his preparations and asked Kjartan to come with him.
Olaf made his preparations and asked Kjartan to come with him.
Kjartan said he would stay at home and look after the farm.
Kjartan said he would stay at home and look after the farm.
Olaf begged him not to bear a grudge and fall out with his own kinsfolk.
Olaf begged him not to bear a grudge and fall out with his own kinsfolk.
“Keep this in mind, Kjartan, that there is no one whom you have loved as well as your foster-brother Bolli.
“Keep this in mind, Kjartan, that there is no one whom you have loved as well as your foster-brother Bolli.
My wish is to have you come along.
My wish is to have you come along.
You will quickly make up with your cousin if the two of you get together.”
You will quickly make up with your cousin if the two of you get together.”
Bolli gekk í móti þeim Óláfi ok synir Ósvífrs ok fagna þeim vel.
Bolli gekk at Kjartani ok minntisk til hans.
Kjartan tók kveðju hans.
Eptir þat var þeim inn fylgt.
Bolli er við þá inn kátasti.
Óláfr tók því einkar vel, en Kjartan heldr fáliga.
Veizla fór vel fram.
Bolli átti stóðhross þau, er bezt váru kǫlluð;
hestrinn var mikill ok vænn ok hafði aldregi brugðizk at vígi; hann var hvítr at lit ok rauð eyrun ok topprinn.
Þar fylgðu þrjú merhryssi með sama lit sem hestrinn.
Þessi hross vildi Bolli gefa Kjartani, en Kjartan kvazk engi vera hrossamaðr ok vildi eigi þiggja.
Óláfr bað hann við taka hrossunum, - “ok eru þetta inar virðuligstu gjafar.”
Kjartan setti þvert nei fyrir.
Skilðusk eptir þat með engri blíðu, ok fóru Hjarðhyltingar heim, ok er nú kyrrt.
Var Kjartan heldr fár um vetrinn; nutu menn lítt tals hans; þótti Óláfi á því mikil mein.
Bolli came forward to receive Olaf and his company, together with Osvif’s sons, and greeted them courteously.
Bolli came forward to receive Olaf and his company, together with Osvif’s sons, and greeted them courteously.
Bolli went to meet Kjartan, and kissed him.
Bolli went to meet Kjartan, and kissed him.
Kjartan returned the greeting.
Kjartan returned the greeting.
After this they were conducted within doors.
After this they were conducted within doors.
Bolli was very merry at this time.
Bolli was very merry at this time.
Olaf was greatly pleased with him, but Kjartan rather held off.
Olaf was greatly pleased with him, but Kjartan rather held off.
The feast went merrily on.
The feast went merrily on.
Bolli was the owner of a stud of horses which were rated as the very best.
Bolli was the owner of a stud of horses which were rated as the very best.
The stallion was a large and beautiful animal and had never been beaten in a matched fight. He was of a white color, with red ears and forelock.
The stallion was a large and beautiful animal and had never been beaten in a matched fight. He was of a white color, with red ears and forelock.
With him there went three mares, of the same colour as the horse.
With him there went three mares, of the same colour as the horse.
These horses Bolli presented to Kjartan, but Kjartan said he was no horse fancier, and would not accept them.
These horses Bolli presented to Kjartan, but Kjartan said he was no horse fancier, and would not accept them.
Olaf begged him to accept the horses, “for these are a very honorable gift.”
Olaf begged him to accept the horses, “for these are a very honorable gift.”
Kjartan returned a flat No.
Kjartan returned a flat No.
They parted company after that in no friendly humor, and the Hjardarholt folks went home. And now everything was quiet.
They parted company after that in no friendly humor, and the Hjardarholt folks went home. And now everything was quiet.
Kjartan was rather moody through the winter. The folks got little talk from him. Olaf took this sorely to heart.
Kjartan was rather moody through the winter. The folks got little talk from him. Olaf took this sorely to heart.
Þann vetr eptir jól býsk Kjartan heiman ok þeir tólf saman; ætluðu þeir norðr til heraða.
Ríða nú leið sína, þar til er þeir koma í Víðidal norðr, í Ásbjarnarnes, ok er þar tekit við Kjartani með inni (136) mestu blíðu ok ǫlúð.
Váru þar hýbýli in vegligstu.
Hallr, sonr Guðmundar, var þá á tvítugs aldri; hann var mjǫk í kyn þeira Laxdœla.
Þat er alsagt, at eigi hafi verit alvaskligri maðr í ǫllum Norðlendingafjórðungi.
Hallr tók við Kjartani, frænda sínum, með mikilli blíðu.
Eru þá þegar leikar lagðir í Ásbjarnarnesi, ok safnat víða til um heruð;
kom til vestan ór Miðfirði ok af Vatnsnesi ok ór Vatnsdal ok allt útan ór Langadal; varð þar mikit fjǫlmenni.
Allir menn hǫfðu á máli, hversu mikit afbragð Kjartan var annarra manna.
Síðan var aflat til leiks, ok beitisk Hallr fyrir.
Hann bað Kjartan til leiks, - “vildim vér, frændi, at þú sýndir kurteisi þína í þessu.”
That winter after Christmas Kjartan set out from home with a company of twelve men to go up into the north country.
That winter after Christmas Kjartan set out from home with a company of twelve men to go up into the north country.
They rode on their way till they came into Vididal up north, to Asbjarnarnes, and there Kjartan was welcomed with the greatest friendliness (154) and courtesy.
They rode on their way till they came into Vididal up north, to Asbjarnarnes, and there Kjartan was welcomed with the greatest friendliness (154) and courtesy.
The housing on the place was most excellent.
The housing on the place was most excellent.
Hall Gudmundson was then about twenty years old. He strongly favored his Laxdal kin.
Hall Gudmundson was then about twenty years old. He strongly favored his Laxdal kin.
It is the common report that a finer man in all respects has not been known in all the north Quarter.
It is the common report that a finer man in all respects has not been known in all the north Quarter.
Hall welcomed his uncle Kjartan with great affection.
Hall welcomed his uncle Kjartan with great affection.
Presently games were got under way at Asbjarnarnes and people gathered in from far and wide about the countryside.
Presently games were got under way at Asbjarnarnes and people gathered in from far and wide about the countryside.
They came from the Vididal and from Midfjord, from Vatznes and from the Vatzdal, and all the way from Langadal. It was a very large gathering.
They came from the Vididal and from Midfjord, from Vatznes and from the Vatzdal, and all the way from Langadal. It was a very large gathering.
And the talk among them all ran on how greatly Kjartan excelled all the rest.
And the talk among them all ran on how greatly Kjartan excelled all the rest.
Then the games were begun, and Hall took the lead.
Then the games were begun, and Hall took the lead.
He called on Kjartan to come in. “We beg you to do it as a favor to us, cousin.”
He called on Kjartan to come in. “We beg you to do it as a favor to us, cousin.”
Þuríðr, systir hans, gekk til máls við hann ok mælti svá: “Þat er mér sagt, frændi, at þú sér heldr hljóðr vetrlangt;
tala menn þat, at þér muni vera eptirsjá at um Guðrúnu;
fœra menn þat til þess, at engi blíða verðr á með ykkr Bolla frændum, svá mikit ástríki sem með ykkr hefir verit allar stundir.
Ger svá vel ok hœfiliga, at þú lát þér ekki at þessu þykkja, ok unn frænda þínum góðs ráðs;
þœtti oss þat ráðligast, at þú kvángaðisk, eptir því sem þú mæltir í fyrra sumar, þótt þér sé eigi þar með ǫllu jafnræði, sem Hrefna er, því at þú mátt eigi þat finna innan lands.
Asgeirr, faðir hennar, er gǫfugr maðr ok stórættaðr.
Hann skortir ok eigi fé at fríða þetta ráð; er ok ǫnnur dóttir hans gipt ríkum manni.
Þú hefir ok mér sagt, at Kálfr Ásgeirsson sé inn rǫskvasti maðr; er þeira ráðahagr inn skǫruligsti.
Þat er minn vili, at þú takir tal við Hrefnu, ok væntir mik, at þér þykki þar fara vit eptir vænleik.”
His sister Thurid came and talked to him and said this: “Brother, I am told that you have (155) been quite moody all winter long.
His sister Thurid came and talked to him and said this: “Brother, I am told that you have (155) been quite moody all winter long.
The folks are saying that you have been grieving about Gudrun.
The folks are saying that you have been grieving about Gudrun.
And the folks believe it all the more because there is no longer any friendliness between your cousin Bolli and you; and you two had always been such close friends.
And the folks believe it all the more because there is no longer any friendliness between your cousin Bolli and you; and you two had always been such close friends.
Now, turn to and do what is right and reasonable, and make no more of this thing than you have to. Take the advice of your own people.
Now, turn to and do what is right and reasonable, and make no more of this thing than you have to. Take the advice of your own people.
We have been thinking that the best thing to do would be for you to take a wife just as you said last summer, although it may be that Hrefna is not altogether an even match for you. Indeed that is something you will not find in this country.
We have been thinking that the best thing to do would be for you to take a wife just as you said last summer, although it may be that Hrefna is not altogether an even match for you. Indeed that is something you will not find in this country.
Her father Asgeir is a man of mark and of good birth,
Her father Asgeir is a man of mark and of good birth,
and he also does not lack the means with which to make this match a handsome one. Another daughter of his is also married to a man of some consequence,
and he also does not lack the means with which to make this match a handsome one. Another daughter of his is also married to a man of some consequence,
and you have yourself told me that Kalf Asgeirson is the finest kind of a man. Altogether they are of the best people.
and you have yourself told me that Kalf Asgeirson is the finest kind of a man. Altogether they are of the best people.
I wish very much that you would have a talk with Hrefna. And I believe you will find that she has brains to match her beauty.”
I wish very much that you would have a talk with Hrefna. And I believe you will find that she has brains to match her beauty.”
Hrefna veitti ok eigi afsvǫr fyrir sina hǫnd, ok bað hon fǫður sínn ráða.
Er nú (138) þessu máli á leið snúit ok váttum bundit.
Ekki lætr Kjartan sér annat líka en brullaup sé í Hjarðarholti.
Þeir Ásgeirr ok Kálfr mæla ekki þessu í mót; er nú ákveðin brullaupsstefna í Hjarðarholti, þá er fimm vikur eru af sumri.
Eptir þat reið Kjartan heim með stórar gjafar.
Óláfr lét vel yfir þessum tíðendum, því at Kjartan var miklu kátari en áðr hann fór heiman.
Kjartan fastaði þurrt langafǫstu ok gerði þat at engis manns dœmum hér á landi, því at þat er sǫgn manna, at hann hafi fyrstr manna fastat þurrt hér innanlands.
Svá þótti mǫnnum þat undarligr hlutr, at Kjartan lifði svá lengi matlauss, at menn fóru langar leiðir at sjá hann.
Með slíku móti váru aðrir hættir Kjartans umfram aðra menn.
Síðan gengu af páskarnir.
Eptir þat láta þeir Kjartan ok Óláfr stofna til veizlu mikillar;
koma þeir norðan Ásgeirr ok Kálfr at ákveðinni stefnu ok Guðmundr ok Hallr, ok hǫfðu þeir allir saman sex tigu manna.
Þeir Kjartan hǫfðu ok mikit fjǫlmenni fyrir.
Var sú veizla ágæt, því at viku var at boðinu setit.
Kjartan gaf Hrefnu at linfé motrinn, ok var sú gjǫf allfræg, því at engi var þar svá vitr eða stórauðigr, at slíka gersemi hefði sét eða átta;
en þat er hygginna manna frásǫgn, at átta aurum gulls væri ofit í motrinn.
Kjartan var ok svá kátr at boðinu, at hann skemmti þar hverjum manni í tali sínu ok sagði frá ferðum sínum;
þótti mǫnnum þar mikils um þat vert, hversu mikil efni þar váru til seld, því at hann hafði lengi þjónat inum ágætasta hǫfðingja, (139) Óláfi konungi Tryggvasyni.
En þá er boðinu var slitit, valði Kjartan gódar gjafar Gudmundi ok Halli ok ǫðru stórmenni; fengu þeir feðgar mikinn orðstír af þessi veizlu.
Tókusk góðar ástir með þeim Kjartani ok Hrefnu.
Hrefna, too, made no objection, on her part, and left it all to her father’s decision.
Hrefna, too, made no objection, on her part, and left it all to her father’s decision.
So the affair was brought to a (156) conclusion and an agreement was made in the presence of witnesses.
So the affair was brought to a (156) conclusion and an agreement was made in the presence of witnesses.
Kjartan would content himself with nothing else but that the wedding was to be at Hjardarholt.
Kjartan would content himself with nothing else but that the wedding was to be at Hjardarholt.
Asgeir and Kalf made no objection to that. So then it was arranged that the wedding was to take place at Hjardarholt by the end of five weeks of summer.
Asgeir and Kalf made no objection to that. So then it was arranged that the wedding was to take place at Hjardarholt by the end of five weeks of summer.
Kjartan then rode away home, with large presents given him on leaving.
Kjartan then rode away home, with large presents given him on leaving.
Olaf was much pleased with the news, for Kjartan was much merrier now than before he left home.
Olaf was much pleased with the news, for Kjartan was much merrier now than before he left home.
Kjartan fasted through Lent, taking no solid food, and in this he did what no man had done before him.
Kjartan fasted through Lent, taking no solid food, and in this he did what no man had done before him.
It was a wonder in all men’s eyes that Kjartan lived so long a time without food, so that people came from far away to see him.
It was a wonder in all men’s eyes that Kjartan lived so long a time without food, so that people came from far away to see him.
In such like fashion did Kjartan surpass other men also in other things.
In such like fashion did Kjartan surpass other men also in other things.
So Easter came and passed.
So Easter came and passed.
After that Kjartan and Olaf set about their preparations for a great wedding feast.
After that Kjartan and Olaf set about their preparations for a great wedding feast.
Asgeir and Kalf came down from the North at the time bespoken, together with Gudmund and Hall, and altogether they were a company of sixty persons.
Asgeir and Kalf came down from the North at the time bespoken, together with Gudmund and Hall, and altogether they were a company of sixty persons.
Kjartan’s folks had also gathered a large company to welcome them.
Kjartan’s folks had also gathered a large company to welcome them.
The wedding was a sumptuous affair, for the feasting lasted through the week.
The wedding was a sumptuous affair, for the feasting lasted through the week.
Kjartan gave Hrefna the Bonnet for a wedding gift; and this gift became famous, for there was no one there present of such wide knowledge or such great wealth as to have ever seen or owned so valuable an ornament.
Kjartan gave Hrefna the Bonnet for a wedding gift; and this gift became famous, for there was no one there present of such wide knowledge or such great wealth as to have ever seen or owned so valuable an ornament.
And the wise ones have related that there was as much as eight ounces of gold woven into the fabric of the Bonnet.
And the wise ones have related that there was as much as eight ounces of gold woven into the fabric of the Bonnet.
And Kjartan was in such gay spirits at the wedding that he entertained everybody with his pleasantries, telling them of his adventures.
And Kjartan was in such gay spirits at the wedding that he entertained everybody with his pleasantries, telling them of his adventures.
And the folks were greatly moved with the many notable things he had to tell of, for he had long been in the service of the most illustrious chieftain, King (157) Olaf Tryggvason.
And the folks were greatly moved with the many notable things he had to tell of, for he had long been in the service of the most illustrious chieftain, King (157) Olaf Tryggvason.
And when the gathering broke up Kjartan gave handsomely chosen presents to Gudmund and Hall and to the other great ones present. Father and son gained great good fame by this wedding feast.
And when the gathering broke up Kjartan gave handsomely chosen presents to Gudmund and Hall and to the other great ones present. Father and son gained great good fame by this wedding feast.
Kjartan and Hrefna came to love one another well.
Kjartan and Hrefna came to love one another well.
Þeir Óláfr ok Ósvífr heldu sinni vináttu, þótt nǫkkut væri þústr á með inum yngrum mǫnnum.
Þat sumar hafði Óláfr heimboð hálfum mánaði fyrir vetr.
Ósvífr hafði ok boð stofnat at vetrnóttum; bauð þá hvárr þeira ǫðrum til sín með svá marga menn, sem þá þœtti hvárum mestr sómi at vera.
Ósvífr átti þá fyrri boð at sœkja til Óláfs, ok kom hann at ákveðinni stundu í Hjarðarholt.
Í þeiri ferð var Bolli ok Guðrún ok synir Ósvífrs.
Um morgininn eptir rœddi kona ein um, er þær gengu útar eptir skálanum, hversu konum skyldi skipa í sæti.
Þat bar saman ok Guðrún er komin gegnt rekkju þeiri, at Kjartan var vanr at liggja í.
Kjartan var þá at ok klæddisk ok steypði yfir sik skarlatskyrtli rauðum.
Þá mælti Kjartan til konu þeirar, er um kvenna skipunina hafði rœtt, - því at engi var annarr skjótari til at svara -: “Hrefna skal sitja í ǫndvegi ok vera mest metin at gǫrvǫllu, á meðan ek em á lífi.”
Olaf and Osvif held to their friendship as before, even though there was some hard feeling between the younger folks.
Olaf and Osvif held to their friendship as before, even though there was some hard feeling between the younger folks.
This year Olaf gave a banquet at his home a fortnight before the coming of winter.
This year Olaf gave a banquet at his home a fortnight before the coming of winter.
And Osvif at the same time had made preparations for a feast at the Winter Nights.41
So each of them invited the other to come to the feast with as large a company as either thought would do him the most honor.
And Osvif at the same time had made preparations for a feast at the Winter Nights.41
So each of them invited the other to come to the feast with as large a company as either thought would do him the most honor.
It was Osvif’s turn to come first to the feast at Olaf’s, and he came to Hjardarholt at the appointed time.
It was Osvif’s turn to come first to the feast at Olaf’s, and he came to Hjardarholt at the appointed time.
In his company were Bolli and Gudrun and Osvif’s sons.
In his company were Bolli and Gudrun and Osvif’s sons.
Next morning when the company were on their way down the length of the hall, one of the serving-women raised the question, in what order the women guests were to be seated at table.
Next morning when the company were on their way down the length of the hall, one of the serving-women raised the question, in what order the women guests were to be seated at table.
It so happened that Gudrun was just then coming along opposite the closet-bed in which Kjartan usually slept.
It so happened that Gudrun was just then coming along opposite the closet-bed in which Kjartan usually slept.
At that time Kjartan was dressing and was just putting on his red scarlet coat.
At that time Kjartan was dressing and was just putting on his red scarlet coat.
And Kjartan then spoke to the woman who asked about the order of seating, as no one else spoke up, and told her, “Hrefna is to sit in the highseat. And she is to bear the honors before them all, so long as I am alive.”
And Kjartan then spoke to the woman who asked about the order of seating, as no one else spoke up, and told her, “Hrefna is to sit in the highseat. And she is to bear the honors before them all, so long as I am alive.”
Viku skyldi haustboð vera at Óláfs.
Annan dag eptir rœddi Guðrún í hljóði til Hrefnu, at hon skyldi syna henni motrinn; hon kvað svá vera skyldu.
Um daginn eptir ganga þær í útibúr þat, er gripirnir váru í.
Lauk Hrefna upp kistu ok tók þar upp guðvefjarpoka, en ór pokanum tók hon motrinn ok sýndi Guðrúnu.
Hon rakði motrinn ok leit á um hríð ok rœddi hvárki um lǫst né lof; síðan hirði Hrefna motrinn, ok gengu þær - til sætis síns.
Eptir þat fór þar fram gleði ok skemmtan.
En þann dag, er boðsmenn skyldu í brott ríða, gekk Kjartan mjǫk um sýslur at annask mǫnnum hesta skipti, þeim er langt váru at komnir, ok slíkan fararbeina hverjum, sem hafa þurfti.
Ekki hafði Kjartan haft sverðit konungsnaut í hendi, þá er hann hafði at þessu gengit; en þó var hann sjaldan vanr at láta þat hendi firr ganga.
Síðan gekk hann til rúms síns, þar sem sverðit hafði verit, ok var þá á brottu.
Hann gekk þegar at segja feðr sínum þessa svipan.
This autumn festival at Olaf’s was to last a week’s time.
This autumn festival at Olaf’s was to last a week’s time.
On the next day following Gudrun talked again with Hrefna privately and asked her to let her see the Bonnet. She consented.
On the next day following Gudrun talked again with Hrefna privately and asked her to let her see the Bonnet. She consented.
Later in the day they went out to the storehouse where valuable things were kept.
Later in the day they went out to the storehouse where valuable things were kept.
Hrefna then opened a chest and brought out a satin poke, and out of the poke she took out the headdress and showed it to Gudrun.
Hrefna then opened a chest and brought out a satin poke, and out of the poke she took out the headdress and showed it to Gudrun.
She spread it open and looked it over for a while and said nothing, neither good nor bad. Presently Hrefna put the Bonnet away and they went back to their places in the hall.
She spread it open and looked it over for a while and said nothing, neither good nor bad. Presently Hrefna put the Bonnet away and they went back to their places in the hall.
And so time passed in sport and merrymaking.
And so time passed in sport and merrymaking.
Now on the day when the guests were taking leave and riding away, Kjartan was taken up with looking after horses and riding-gear for such of them as had come a long ways and needed anything of the kind.
Now on the day when the guests were taking leave and riding away, Kjartan was taken up with looking after horses and riding-gear for such of them as had come a long ways and needed anything of the kind.
Kjartan had not been carrying his sword, the king’s gift, about with him while he was looking after these things; although it was his habit very rarely to leave it out of his reach.
Kjartan had not been carrying his sword, the king’s gift, about with him while he was looking after these things; although it was his habit very rarely to leave it out of his reach.
Afterwards he went to his closet-bed, where he had left the sword, and it was then gone.
Afterwards he went to his closet-bed, where he had left the sword, and it was then gone.
He went directly to his father and told him.
He went directly to his father and told him.
Án inn hvíti skyldi ríða með liði Ósvífrs ok hugleiða afhvarf manna eða (141) dvalar.
Þeir riðu inn hjá Ljárskógum ok hjá bœjum þeim, er í Skógum heita, ok dvǫlðusk hjá Skógum ok stigu þar af baki.
Þórólfr, sonr Ósvífrs, fór af bœnum ok nǫkkurir aðrir menn með honum.
Þeir hurfu í brott í hrískjǫrr nǫkkur á meðan þeir dvǫlðusk í Skógum.
Án fylgði þeim til Laxár, er fellr ór Sælingsdal, ok kvazk hann þá mundu aptr hverfa.
Eigi talði Þórólfr mein á Því, þótt hann hefði hvergi farit.
Þá nótt áðr hafði fallit lítil snæfǫlva, svá at sporrækt var.
Án reið aptr til Skóga ok rakði spor Þórólfs til keldu einnar eða fens; hann þreifar þar í niðr ok greip á sverðshjǫltum.
Án (142) vildi hafa til vitni með sér um þetta mál ok reið eptir Þórarni í Sælingsdalstungu, ok hann fór til með Áni at taka upp sverðit.
Eptir þat fœrði Án Kjartani sverðit. Kjartan vafði um dúki ok lagði niðr í kistu.
Þar heitir Sverðskelda síðan, er þeir Þórólfr hǫfðu fólgit konungsnaut.
Var nú látit kyrrt yfir þessu, en umgørðin fannsk aldregi síðan.
Kjartan hafði jafnan minni mætur á sverðinu síðan en áðr.
Þetta lét Kjartan á sik bíta ok vildi eigi hafa svá búit.
Óláfr mælti: “Láttu þetta ekki á þik bíta; hafa þeir sýnt ekki góðan prett, en þik sakar ekki;
látum eigi aðra eiga at því at hlæja, at vér leggim slíkt til deilu, þar er til móts eru vinir ok frændr.”
Án the White was to ride along with Osvif’s folks and keep watch of anyone who might go off to the side or fall behind.
Án the White was to ride along with Osvif’s folks and keep watch of anyone who might go off to the side or fall behind.
They were riding up country by way of Ljarskog, past the farmstead known as In-the-Skog, and they made a stop here at Skog and dismounted.
They were riding up country by way of Ljarskog, past the farmstead known as In-the-Skog, and they made a stop here at Skog and dismounted.
Osvif’s son Thorolf with several others went off to one side, away from the farmstead.
Osvif’s son Thorolf with several others went off to one side, away from the farmstead.
They disappeared into a clump of underbrush while the halt was made at Skog.
They disappeared into a clump of underbrush while the halt was made at Skog.
Án kept company with the riders as far as the Laxá river, where it comes down out of the Sælingsdal, and there he took leave of them to turn back.
Án kept company with the riders as far as the Laxá river, where it comes down out of the Sælingsdal, and there he took leave of them to turn back.
Thorolf let him know that it would have been quite all right even if he had not come with them at all.
Thorolf let him know that it would have been quite all right even if he had not come with them at all.
During the previous night a very light snow had fallen, so that it was easy trailing.
During the previous night a very light snow had fallen, so that it was easy trailing.
Án rode back to the Ljarskog woods and followed Thorolf’s trail down to a certain spring or marshy place. There he groped about under water and put his hand on the sword-hilts.
Án rode back to the Ljarskog woods and followed Thorolf’s trail down to a certain spring or marshy place. There he groped about under water and put his hand on the sword-hilts.
Án wanted witnesses to this affair, and so he rode back to Thorarin, at the Sælingsdal Tunga, and he went back with Án to see him take up the sword.
Án wanted witnesses to this affair, and so he rode back to Thorarin, at the Sælingsdal Tunga, and he went back with Án to see him take up the sword.
Án thereupon carried the sword to Kjartan. Kjartan wrapped it in cloth and laid it away in a chest.
Án thereupon carried the sword to Kjartan. Kjartan wrapped it in cloth and laid it away in a chest.
The place is known as the Sword-Well where Thorolf thrust the king’s-gift into hiding.
The place is known as the Sword-Well where Thorolf thrust the king’s-gift into hiding.
Nothing was done about this, but the scabbard was never found again.
Nothing was done about this, but the scabbard was never found again.
Kjartan was more careful of the sword after this than before.
Kjartan was more careful of the sword after this than before.
Kjartan took all this to heart and was not willing to let it pass.
Kjartan took all this to heart and was not willing to let it pass.
But Olaf told him, “Let not this thing trouble you. They have turned a mean trick; but it is really no matter.
But Olaf told him, “Let not this thing trouble you. They have turned a mean trick; but it is really no matter.
Let us not be made sport of for making a feud out of all this, in such a case where we have to do with our own friends and kinsfolk.”
Let us not be made sport of for making a feud out of all this, in such a case where we have to do with our own friends and kinsfolk.”
En með því at Þorgerðr fýsti ákaft, þá hafði Hrefna motrinn, en Kjartan mælti þá eigi í mót, er hann sá, hversu móðir hans vildi.
Eptir þetta ráðask þau til ferðar, ok koma þau til Lauga um kveldit, ok var (143) þeim þar vel fagnat.
Þorgerðr ok Hrefna selja klæði sín til varðveizlu.
En um morgininn, er konur skyldu taka búnað sinn, þá leitar Hrefna at motrinum, ok var þá í brottu þaðan, sem hon hafði varðveitt, ok var þá víða leitat ok fannsk eigi.
Guðrún kvað þat líkast, at heima myndi eptir hafa orðit motrinn, eða hon myndi hafa búit um óvarliga ok fellt niðr.
Hrefna sagði nú Kjartani, at motrinn var horfinn.
Hann svarar ok kvað eigi hœgt hlut í at eiga at gæta til með þeim ok bað hana nú láta vera kyrrt, segir síðan fǫður sínum, um hvat at leika var.
Óláfr svarar: “Enn vilda ek sem fyrr, at þú létir vera ok hjá þér líða þetta vandræði; mun ek leita eptir þessu í hljóði;
því at þar til vilda ek allt vinna, at ykkr Bolla skilði eigi á; er um heilt bezt at binda, frændi,” segir hann.
And so, seeing that Thorgerd was obstinately set on it, Hrefna wore the Bonnet; and Kjartan made no objection when he saw that his mother would have it so.
And so, seeing that Thorgerd was obstinately set on it, Hrefna wore the Bonnet; and Kjartan made no objection when he saw that his mother would have it so.
So then they set out and reached Laugar by nightfall and there they were welcomed cordially.
So then they set out and reached Laugar by nightfall and there they were welcomed cordially.
Thorgerd and Hrefna handed over their wraps to be taken care of.
Thorgerd and Hrefna handed over their wraps to be taken care of.
But next morning, when the women were dressing, Hrefna looked for the Bonnet and it was then gone from the place where she had left it for safe-keeping. Search was made for it all over the place but it was not found.
But next morning, when the women were dressing, Hrefna looked for the Bonnet and it was then gone from the place where she had left it for safe-keeping. Search was made for it all over the place but it was not found.
Gudrun said it was most likely the Bonnet had been left at home, or she might have been careless about it and dropped it somewhere.
Gudrun said it was most likely the Bonnet had been left at home, or she might have been careless about it and dropped it somewhere.
Hrefna then told Kjartan that the Bonnet had disappeared.
Hrefna then told Kjartan that the Bonnet had disappeared.
He gave her the answer that it was not easy to keep an eye on these folks and asked her to let it pass. Then he told his father how the game was going.
He gave her the answer that it was not easy to keep an eye on these folks and asked her to let it pass. Then he told his father how the game was going.
Olaf told him, “Once more I would have you do as before. Let it lie. Put up with the trouble and say nothing. I will look into this thing on the quiet.
Olaf told him, “Once more I would have you do as before. Let it lie. Put up with the trouble and say nothing. I will look into this thing on the quiet.
There is nothing I would not do to keep the peace between Bolli and you. Prevention is easier than cure, my son,” said he.
There is nothing I would not do to keep the peace between Bolli and you. Prevention is easier than cure, my son,” said he.
Eptir jól um vetrinn safnar Kjartan at sér mǫnnum; urðu þeir saman sex tigir manna.
Ekki sagði Kjartan fǫður sínum, hversu af stózk um ferð þessa; spurði Óláfr ok lítt at.
Kjartan hafði með sér tjǫld ok vistir.
Ríðr Kjartan nú leið sína, þar til er hann kemr (145) til Lauga.
Hann biðr menn stíga af baki ok mælti, at sumir skyldu geyma hesta þeira, en suma biðr hann reisa tjǫld.
Í þann tíma var þat mikil tízka, at úti var salerni ok eigi allskammt frá bœnum, ok svá var at Laugum.
Kjartan lét þar taka dyrr allar á húsum ok bannaði ǫllum mǫnnum útgǫngu ok dreitti þau inni þrjár nætr.
Eptir þat ríðr Kjartan heim í Hjarðarholt ok hverr hans fǫrunauta til síns heimilis.
Óláfr lætr illa yfir þessi ferð.
Þorgerðr kvað eigi lasta þurfa ok sagði Laugamenn til slíks gǫrt hafa eða meiri svívirðingar.
Þá mælti Hrefna: “Áttir þú, Kjartan, við nǫkkura menn tal at Laugum?”
Along in the winter after Christmas Kjartan gathered some men together. There were some sixty of them altogether.
Along in the winter after Christmas Kjartan gathered some men together. There were some sixty of them altogether.
Kjartan did not tell his father what this expedition was about. And Olaf asked few questions about it.
Kjartan did not tell his father what this expedition was about. And Olaf asked few questions about it.
Kjartan took tents and provisions.
Kjartan took tents and provisions.
So Kjartan rode on his way till he reached Laugar.
So Kjartan rode on his way till he reached Laugar.
He ordered his men to dismount and told off some of them to look after their horses and others to set up the tents.
He ordered his men to dismount and told off some of them to look after their horses and others to set up the tents.
At that time the common usage was that the places of retreat were out-of-doors and some little way from the dwellings, and so it was at Laugar.
At that time the common usage was that the places of retreat were out-of-doors and some little way from the dwellings, and so it was at Laugar.
Kjartan put a guard on every door on the place and barred all persons from going out, and so made them do all errands of nature within-doors for three days’ time.
Kjartan put a guard on every door on the place and barred all persons from going out, and so made them do all errands of nature within-doors for three days’ time.
When this had been done Kjartan rode back home to Hjardarholt, and his men each to his own home.
When this had been done Kjartan rode back home to Hjardarholt, and his men each to his own home.
Olaf disapproved of these doings.
Olaf disapproved of these doings.
Thorgerd said there was nothing to blame, and said also that the Lauga-folks had duly merited all or more than this indignity.
Thorgerd said there was nothing to blame, and said also that the Lauga-folks had duly merited all or more than this indignity.
Then Hrefna spoke, “Did you have any talk with anyone at Laugar, Kjartan?”
Then Hrefna spoke, “Did you have any talk with anyone at Laugar, Kjartan?”
Þórarinn búandi í Tungu lýsir því, at hann vildi selja Tunguland; var þat bæði, at honum þurru lausafé, enda þótti honum mjǫk vaxa þústr milli manna í heraðinu, en honum var kært við hváratveggju.
Bolli þóttisk þurfa at kaupa sér staðfestu, því at Laugamenn hǫfðu fá lǫnd, en fjǫlða fjár.
Þau Bolli ok Guðrún riðu í Tungu at ráði Ósvífrs; þótti þeim í hǫnd fallaz at taka upp land þetta hjá sér sjálfum, ok bað Ósvífr þau eigi láta smátt slíta.
Síðan réðu þau Þórarinn um kaup þetta ok urðu ásátt, hversu dýrt vera skyldi, ok svá þat, er í móti skyldi vera, ok var mælt til kaups með þeim Bolla.
En því var kaupit eigi váttum bundit, at eigi váru menn svá margir hjá, at þat þœtti vera lǫgfuilt.
Ríða þau Bolli ok Guðrún heim eptir þetta.
En er Kjartan Óláfsson spyrr þessi tíðendi, ríðr hann þegar við tólfta mann ok kom í Tungu snimma dags; fagnar Þórarinn honum vel ok bauð honum þar at vera.
Kjartan kvazk heim mundu ríða um kveldit, en eiga þar dvǫl nǫkkura.
Þórarinn frétti at um ørendi.
Kjartan svarar: “Þat er ørendi mitt hingat, at rœða um landkaup þat nǫkkut, er þér Bolli hafit stofnat, því at mér er þat í móti skapi, ef þú selr land þetta þeim Bolla ok Guðrúnu.”
Thorarin, the farmer at Tunga, gave notice that he wished to sell the Tunga lands. The reason was both that he was getting to be short of livestock and also that he felt there was too much of a quarrel coming to a head in the neighborhood, and he was a friend of both sides.
Thorarin, the farmer at Tunga, gave notice that he wished to sell the Tunga lands. The reason was both that he was getting to be short of livestock and also that he felt there was too much of a quarrel coming to a head in the neighborhood, and he was a friend of both sides.
Bolli wanted to buy himself a place, because the Lauga-folks were short of land and had much livestock.
Bolli wanted to buy himself a place, because the Lauga-folks were short of land and had much livestock.
Bolli and Gudrun rode over to Tunga, at Osvif’s advice. He urged that it would come right handy for them to take over this land which lay right next to their own, and advised them to let no little thing stand in their way.
Bolli and Gudrun rode over to Tunga, at Osvif’s advice. He urged that it would come right handy for them to take over this land which lay right next to their own, and advised them to let no little thing stand in their way.
They talked the trade over with Thorarin and came to an agreement about the price to be paid as well as what was included in the sale, and a bargain was made between Thorarin and Bolli.
They talked the trade over with Thorarin and came to an agreement about the price to be paid as well as what was included in the sale, and a bargain was made between Thorarin and Bolli.
But the sale was not formally closed before witnesses, because there were (166) not such a number of persons present as to have made it legally binding.
But the sale was not formally closed before witnesses, because there were (166) not such a number of persons present as to have made it legally binding.
When this was done Bolli and Gudrun rode back home.
When this was done Bolli and Gudrun rode back home.
Now when Kjartan Olafson heard of this he set out at once with a company of twelve men and came to Tunga early in the day. Thorarin made him welcome and asked him to stay.
Now when Kjartan Olafson heard of this he set out at once with a company of twelve men and came to Tunga early in the day. Thorarin made him welcome and asked him to stay.
But Kjartan said he would have to get back home that evening, but would be stopping for a while.
But Kjartan said he would have to get back home that evening, but would be stopping for a while.
Thorarin asked where he was going and what for.
Thorarin asked where he was going and what for.
And Kjartan answered him, “I have come here to see you about a certain land-sale which Bolli and you have been arranging. Because I do not like to have you sell this land to Bolli and Gudrun.”
And Kjartan answered him, “I have come here to see you about a certain land-sale which Bolli and you have been arranging. Because I do not like to have you sell this land to Bolli and Gudrun.”
Kjartan hét þessu.
Síðan kemr Þórarinn heim ok ræzk til ferðar með þeim; ríða þeir vestr um Sælingsdalsheiði ok koma um kveldit á Hól til þeira systkina.
Kjartan fær þar góðar viðtǫkur, því at þar var in mesta vingan.
Þórhalla málga kom heim til Lauga um kveldit.
Spyrja synir Ósvífrs, hvat hon hitti manna um daginn.
Hon kvazk hafa hitt Kjartan Óláfsson.
Þeir spurðu, hvert hann ætlaði.
Hon sagði slíkt af, sem hon vissi, - “ok aldregi hefir hann verit vaskligri en nú,
ok er þat eigi kynligt, at slíkum mǫnnum þykki allt lágt hjá sér.”
Ok enn mælti Þórhalla: “Auðfynt þótti mér þat á, at Kjartani var ekki annat jafnlétt hjalat sem um landkaup þeira Þórarins.”
Kjartan promised to do so.
Kjartan promised to do so.
Then Thorarin came home and they set out together. They rode into the West by way of the Sælingsdal moors and came to Hol by nightfall, to the two brothers Thorkel and Knut and their sister Aud.
Then Thorarin came home and they set out together. They rode into the West by way of the Sælingsdal moors and came to Hol by nightfall, to the two brothers Thorkel and Knut and their sister Aud.
Kjartan was very well received there, for they were very good friends.
Kjartan was very well received there, for they were very good friends.
Thorhalla the Talker came back home to Laugar the (168) same evening.
Thorhalla the Talker came back home to Laugar the (168) same evening.
The Osvifsons asked if she had seen anyone during the day.
The Osvifsons asked if she had seen anyone during the day.
She said she had seen Kjartan Olafson.
She said she had seen Kjartan Olafson.
They asked where he was going.
They asked where he was going.
She told them all she knew, “and never has he cut a better figure than now.
She told them all she knew, “and never has he cut a better figure than now.
And indeed it is no wonder if such men as he think all else small and mean beside themselves.”
And indeed it is no wonder if such men as he think all else small and mean beside themselves.”
And Thorhalla went on to say, “It struck me, too, that there was nothing else Kjartan was so ready to talk about as the land he bought of Thorarin.”
And Thorhalla went on to say, “It struck me, too, that there was nothing else Kjartan was so ready to talk about as the land he bought of Thorarin.”
Kjartan sitr inn fjórða dag páska á Hóli; var þar in mesta skemmtan ok gleði.
Um nóttina eptir lét Án illa í svefni, ok var hann vakiðr.
Þeir spurðu, hvat hanu hefði dreymt.
Hann svarar: “Kona kom at mér, óþekkilig, ok kippði mér á stokk fram.
Hon hafði í hendi skálm ok trog í annarri; hon setti fyrir brjóst mér skálmina ok reist á mér kviðinn allan ok tók á brott innyflin ok lét koma í staðinn hrís; eptir þat gekk hon út,” segir Án.
Þeir Kjartan hlógu mjǫk at drauminum ok kváðu hann heita skyldu Án hrísmaga;
þrifu þeir til hans ok kváðusk leita skyldu, hvárt hrís væri í maganum.
Þá mælti Auðr: “Eigi þarf at spotta þetta svá mjǫk;
er þat mitt tillag, at Kjartan geri annathvárt, at hann dvelisk hér lengr, en ef hann vill ríða, þá ríði hann með meira lið heðan en hingat.”
Kjartan spent the third day of Easter at Hol. There was much sport and merrymaking.
Kjartan spent the third day of Easter at Hol. There was much sport and merrymaking.
Án was restless and groaned in his sleep that night, and they woke him.
Án was restless and groaned in his sleep that night, and they woke him.
They asked what he had been dreaming.
They asked what he had been dreaming.
He answered, “There came a woman to me, an ugly old woman, and pulled me out on the bed-rail.
He answered, “There came a woman to me, an ugly old woman, and pulled me out on the bed-rail.
She had a cutlass in one hand and a handful of brambles in the other. She drove the cutlass into my chest and then ripped open my belly all the way down and took out the entrails and put brambles in place of them. After that she went out,” said An.
She had a cutlass in one hand and a handful of brambles in the other. She drove the cutlass into my chest and then ripped open my belly all the way down and took out the entrails and put brambles in place of them. After that she went out,” said An.
Kjartan and the others had a good laugh at his dream and nicknamed him Án Bramblebelly.
Kjartan and the others had a good laugh at his dream and nicknamed him Án Bramblebelly.
They tumbled him about and handled him, as they said, to look for the brambles in his belly.
They tumbled him about and handled him, as they said, to look for the brambles in his belly.
But Aud told them, “There is no use of making so much of a joke about it.
But Aud told them, “There is no use of making so much of a joke about it.
I want to say that Kjartan had best do one thing or the other; either stay over here for a longer time, or else, if he is bound to go, then he ought to ride out of here with a larger company than he came here with.”
I want to say that Kjartan had best do one thing or the other; either stay over here for a longer time, or else, if he is bound to go, then he ought to ride out of here with a larger company than he came here with.”
Þat var tíðenda at Laugum í Sælingsdal, at Guðrún var snimma á fótum, þegar er sólu var ofrat.
Hon gekk þangat til, er brœðr hennar sváfu; hon tók á (150) Óspaki.
Hann vaknaði skjótt við ok svá þeir fleiri brœðr; ok er Óspakr kenndi þar systur sina, þá spurði hann, hvat hon vildi, er hon var svá snimma á fótum.
Guðrún kvazk vildu vita, hvat þeir vildu at hafask um daginn.
Óspakr kvazk mundu kyrru fyrir halda, - “ok er nú fátt til verknaðar.”
Guðrún mælti: “Gott skaplyndi hefði þér fengit, ef þér værið dœtr einshvers bónda ok láta hvárki at yðr verða gagn né mein;
en slíka svívirðing ok skǫmm, sem Kjartan hefir yðr gǫrt, þá sofi þér eigi at minna, at hann ríði hér hjá garði við annan mann, ok hafa slíkir menn mikit svínsminni;
þykki mér ok rekin ván, at þér þorið Kjartan heim at sœkja, ef þér þorið eigi at finna hann nú, er hann ferr við annan mann eða þriðja, en þér sitið heima ok látið vænliga ok eruð æ hølti margir.”
Now this is what took place at Laugar in Sælingsdal. Gudrun was up and afoot as soon as the sun was risen.
Now this is what took place at Laugar in Sælingsdal. Gudrun was up and afoot as soon as the sun was risen.
She went to where her brothers were sleeping. She put her hand on Ospak.
She went to where her brothers were sleeping. She put her hand on Ospak.
He quickly was awake, and so were the other brothers. And when Ospak saw it was his sister he asked her what she was out for so early.
He quickly was awake, and so were the other brothers. And when Ospak saw it was his sister he asked her what she was out for so early.
Gudrun said she wanted to know what they were going to do that day.
Gudrun said she wanted to know what they were going to do that day.
Ospak said they would be lying idle and that there was little work in hand just then.
Ospak said they would be lying idle and that there was little work in hand just then.
Gudrun told them, “You are blest with right good tempers, if you had only been the daughters of some nice farmer, doing nothing, neither to help or hinder.
Gudrun told them, “You are blest with right good tempers, if you had only been the daughters of some nice farmer, doing nothing, neither to help or hinder.
With all the insult and shame that Kjartan has put upon you, you still sleep on the same as ever while he is riding by your dooryard with one man in company. Such folks as you are highly gifted with hog-sense.
With all the insult and shame that Kjartan has put upon you, you still sleep on the same as ever while he is riding by your dooryard with one man in company. Such folks as you are highly gifted with hog-sense.
I should say there is small chance of your daring to go after Kjartan at home if you dare not face him now, when he is on the road with a single man or all alone, while you are sitting around at home and talking nicely and are too many for any use.”
I should say there is small chance of your daring to go after Kjartan at home if you dare not face him now, when he is on the road with a single man or all alone, while you are sitting around at home and talking nicely and are too many for any use.”
Ok við fortǫlur Guðrúnar miklaði Bolli fyrir sér fjándskap allan á hendr Kjartani ok sakar ok vápnaðisk síðan skjótt, ok urðu níu saman.
Váru þeir fimm synir Ósvífrs: Óspakr ok Helgi, Vandráðr ok Torráðr, Þórólfr, Bolli inn sétti, Guðlaugr inn sjaundi, systursonr Ósvífrs ok manna vænligastr.
Þar var Oddr ok (151) Steinn, synir Þórhǫllu málgu.
Þeir riðu til Svínadals ok námu staðar hjá gili því, er Hafragil heitir;
bundu þar hesta sína ok settusk niðr.
Bolli var hljóðr um daginn ok lá uppi hjá gilsþreminum.
En er þeir Kjartan váru komnir suðr um Mjósyndi ok rýmask tekr dalrinn, mælti Kjartan, at þeir Þorkell myndi snúa aptr.
Þorkell kvazk ríða mundu, þar til er þrýtr dalinn.
Ok þá er þeir kómu suðr um sel þau, er Norðrsel heita, þá mælti Kjartan til þeira brœðra, at þeir skyldu eigi ríða lengra;
- “skal eigi Þórólfr, þjófrinn, at því hlæja, at ek þora eigi at ríða leið mína fámennr.”
And so, with Gudrun’s pleading, Bolli made the most of his hatred of Kjartan and the outstanding quarrel and took to his weapons in all haste. They made up a company of nine altogether.
And so, with Gudrun’s pleading, Bolli made the most of his hatred of Kjartan and the outstanding quarrel and took to his weapons in all haste. They made up a company of nine altogether.
There were five of the Osvifsons: Ospak and Helgi, Vandrád, Torrád and Thorolf; sixth Bolli; seventh Gudlaug, Osvif’s sister’s son and a right proper man;
There were five of the Osvifsons: Ospak and Helgi, Vandrád, Torrád and Thorolf; sixth Bolli; seventh Gudlaug, Osvif’s sister’s son and a right proper man;
and there were Odd and Stein, sons of Thorhalla the Talker.
and there were Odd and Stein, sons of Thorhalla the Talker.
They rode out into Svinadal and took up their place in the gully known as the Hafragil ("Billygoat Gully").
They rode out into Svinadal and took up their place in the gully known as the Hafragil ("Billygoat Gully").
There they tied their horses and sat down to wait.
There they tied their horses and sat down to wait.
Bolli was silent all day and lay by himself upon the brink of the gorge.
Bolli was silent all day and lay by himself upon the brink of the gorge.
Now, when Kjartan and his company were past Mjosynd on their way south, where the valley begins to widen out, Kjartan told Thorkel and his men that they might as well turn back.
Now, when Kjartan and his company were past Mjosynd on their way south, where the valley begins to widen out, Kjartan told Thorkel and his men that they might as well turn back.
Thorkel said they would go on as far as where the valley ends.
Thorkel said they would go on as far as where the valley ends.
But when they had got on south past the dairies known as the North-Sel Kjartan again spoke to the two brothers and told them to ride no further;
But when they had got on south past the dairies known as the North-Sel Kjartan again spoke to the two brothers and told them to ride no further;
“Thorolf the Thief is not going to laugh at me for not daring to ride out by myself.”
“Thorolf the Thief is not going to laugh at me for not daring to ride out by myself.”
Nú ríðr Kjartan suðr eptir dalnum ok þeir þrír saman, Án svarti ok Þórarinn.
Þorkell hét maðr, er bjó at Hafratindum í Svínadal.
Þar er nú auðn.
Hann hafði farit til hrossa sinna um daginn ok smala (152) sveinn hans með honum.
Þeir sá hváratveggju, Laugamenn í fyrirsátinni ok þá Kjartan, er þeir riðu eptir dalnum þrír saman.
Þá mælti smalasveinn, at þeir myndi snúa til móts við þá Kjartan; kvað þeim þat mikit happ, ef þeir mætti skirra vandræðum svá miklum, sem þá var til stefnt.
Þorkell mælti: “Þegi skjótt,” segir hann; “mun fóli þinn nǫkkurum manni líf gefa, ef bana verðr auðit?
Er þat ok satt at segja, at ek spari hváriga til, at þeir eigi nú svá illt saman, sem þeim líkar;
sýnisk mér þat betra ráð, at vit komim okkr þar, at okkr sé við engu hætt, en vit megim sem gørst sjá fundinn ok hafim gaman af leik þeira, því at þat ágæta allir, at Kjartan sé vígr hverjum manni betr; væntir mik ok, at hann þurfi nú þess, því at okkr er þat kunnigt, at œrinn er liðsmunr.”
Now Kjartan rides along southward down the valley, the three of them together, himself and Black Án and Thorarin.
Now Kjartan rides along southward down the valley, the three of them together, himself and Black Án and Thorarin.
Thorkel was the name of a man who lived at Hafratindar ("Billygoat Buttes") in Svinadal ("Hogvale").
Thorkel was the name of a man who lived at Hafratindar ("Billygoat Buttes") in Svinadal ("Hogvale").
He had been out looking to his horses during the day, and his shepherd with him.
He had been out looking to his horses during the day, and his shepherd with him.
They caught sight of both parties, both the Lauga-men lying in wait and Kjartan riding down the valley, the three of them together.
They caught sight of both parties, both the Lauga-men lying in wait and Kjartan riding down the valley, the three of them together.
Then the herdsboy spoke up and said that they had better go to meet Kjartan and his men; said it would be a great piece of luck if they could head off such a mischief as this that was then coming on.
Then the herdsboy spoke up and said that they had better go to meet Kjartan and his men; said it would be a great piece of luck if they could head off such a mischief as this that was then coming on.
Thorkel told him, “Keep still! Do you think that a fool like you can save any man’s life if it is his fate to die?
Thorkel told him, “Keep still! Do you think that a fool like you can save any man’s life if it is his fate to die?
And the fact is, too, that I am quite willing to let them do each other as much damage as they like.
And the fact is, too, that I am quite willing to let them do each other as much damage as they like.
It strikes me that we had better look for a place where we will be out of harm’s way and still be able to see everything and get some sport out of their game. They all say that Kjartan is the best swordsman ever; and my guess is that he will need it all this time. The odds against him are good enough.”
It strikes me that we had better look for a place where we will be out of harm’s way and still be able to see everything and get some sport out of their game. They all say that Kjartan is the best swordsman ever; and my guess is that he will need it all this time. The odds against him are good enough.”
Ok varð svá at vera, sem Þorkell vildi.
Þeir Kjartan ríða fram at Hafragili.
En í annan stað gruna þeir Ósvífrssynir, hví Bolli mun sér hafa þar svá staðar leitat, er hann mátti vel sjá, þá er menn riðu vestan.
Þeir gera nú ráð sitt, ok þótti sem Bolli myndi þeim eigi vera trúr, ganga at honum upp í brekkuna ok brugðu á glímu ok á glens ok tóku í fœtr honum ok drógu hann ofan fyrir brekkuna.
En þá Kjartan bar brátt at, er þeir riðu hart, ok er þeir kómu suðr yfir gilit, þá sá þeir fyrirsátina ok kenndu mennina.
Kjartan spratt þegar af baki ok sneri í móti þeim Ósvífrssonum.
Þar stóð steinn einn mikill. Þar bað Kjartan þá við taka.
En áðr þeir mœttisk, skaut Kjartan spjótinu, ok kom í skjǫld Þórólfs fyrir ofan mundriðann, ok bar at honum skjǫldinn við.
Spjótit gekk í gegnum skjǫldinn ok handlegginn fyrir ofan ǫlnboga ok tók þar í sundr aflvǫðvann; lét Þórólfr þá lausan skjǫldinn, ok var honum ónýt hǫndin um daginn.
Síðan brá (153) Kjartan sverðinu - ok hafði eigi konungsnaut.
Þórhǫllusynir runnu á Þórarin, því at þeim var þat hlutverk œtlat.
Var sá atgangr harðr, því at Þórarinn var rammr at afli; þeir váru ok vel knáir; mátti þar ok varia í milli sjá, hvárir þar myndi drjúgari verða.
Þá sóttu þeir Ósvífrssynir at Kjartani ok Guðlaugr; váru þeir sex; en þeir Kjartan ok Án tveir.
Án varðisk vel ok vildi re ganga fram fyrir Kjartan.
Bolli stóð hjá með Fótbít.
Kjartan hjó stórt, en sverðit dugði illa; brá hann því jafnan undir fót sér.
Urðu þá hvárirtveggju sárir, Ósvífrssynir ok Án, en Kjartan var þá enn ekki sárr.
Kjartan barðisk svá snart ok hraustliga, at þeir Ósvífrssynir hopuðu undan ok sneru þá þar at, sem Án var.
Þá fell Án ok hafði hann þó barizk um hríð svá, at úti lágu iðrin.
Í þessi svipan hjó Kjartan fót af Guðlaugi fyrir ofan kné, ok var honum sá áverki œrinn til bana.
Þá sœkja þeir Osvífrssynir fjórir Kjartan, ok varðisk hann svá hraustliga, at hvergi fór hann á hæl fyrir þeim.
And Thorkel had his way about it.
And Thorkel had his way about it.
Kjartan’s party came riding down to the Hafragil.
Kjartan’s party came riding down to the Hafragil.
But on the other side the Osvifsons were beginning to have doubts about Bolli, why he was taking a position (173) where he could easily be seen by anyone riding in from the west.
But on the other side the Osvifsons were beginning to have doubts about Bolli, why he was taking a position (173) where he could easily be seen by anyone riding in from the west.
They talked about it among themselves and doubted if Bolli would keep faith with them. They went up the bank to where he lay and got into a wrestling game with him, and took him by the heels and dragged him down the bank.
They talked about it among themselves and doubted if Bolli would keep faith with them. They went up the bank to where he lay and got into a wrestling game with him, and took him by the heels and dragged him down the bank.
Meantime Kjartan and his men were coming on fast, for they were riding at a run, and just as they got by the mouth of the ravine they caught sight of the ambush and recognised the men.
Meantime Kjartan and his men were coming on fast, for they were riding at a run, and just as they got by the mouth of the ravine they caught sight of the ambush and recognised the men.
Kjartan jumped out of the saddle at once and turned to meet the Osvifsons.
Kjartan jumped out of the saddle at once and turned to meet the Osvifsons.
There was a large boulder near by, and there Kjartan made a stand.
There was a large boulder near by, and there Kjartan made a stand.
But before they came hand to hand he shot his spear and struck Thorolf’s shield just over the handstrap.
But before they came hand to hand he shot his spear and struck Thorolf’s shield just over the handstrap.
The shield was thrown to one side by the blow, and the spear ran through the shield and through the arm above the elbow and cut the great muscle. Thorolf let go the shield, and he had no use of his arm the rest of the day.
The shield was thrown to one side by the blow, and the spear ran through the shield and through the arm above the elbow and cut the great muscle. Thorolf let go the shield, and he had no use of his arm the rest of the day.
Then Kjartan drew his sword, but it was not the king’s-gift.
Then Kjartan drew his sword, but it was not the king’s-gift.
The sons of Thorhalla fell upon Thorarin; that was the share which had been assigned them.
The sons of Thorhalla fell upon Thorarin; that was the share which had been assigned them.
It was a hard fight, for Thorarin was a stout man, and it was not easy to say which would come out ahead.
It was a hard fight, for Thorarin was a stout man, and it was not easy to say which would come out ahead.
The Osvifsons and Gudlaug set upon Kjartan. They were six to Kjartan’s and Án’s two.
The Osvifsons and Gudlaug set upon Kjartan. They were six to Kjartan’s and Án’s two.
Án fought well and was forever putting himself forward to cover Kjartan.
Án fought well and was forever putting himself forward to cover Kjartan.
Bolli stood off to one side with Fotbit in his hand.
Bolli stood off to one side with Fotbit in his hand.
Kjartan laid on mightily, but his sword was a poor tool. Time and again he had to tread on the blade to straighten it.
Kjartan laid on mightily, but his sword was a poor tool. Time and again he had to tread on the blade to straighten it.
Both the Osvifsons and Án were wounded, but Kjartan had not yet been touched.
Both the Osvifsons and Án were wounded, but Kjartan had not yet been touched.
Kjartan fought so fast and furiously that the Osvifsons backed away from him and then turned on Án.
Kjartan fought so fast and furiously that the Osvifsons backed away from him and then turned on Án.
Then Án went down, after he had been fighting for some time with his entrails coming out.
Then Án went down, after he had been fighting for some time with his entrails coming out.
Just then Kjartan cut off Gudlaug’s leg, above the knee, which was enough to kill him.
Just then Kjartan cut off Gudlaug’s leg, above the knee, which was enough to kill him.
Then (174) the four Osvifsons again set on Kjartan, but he fought them off so stoutly that he lost no ground before them.
Then (174) the four Osvifsons again set on Kjartan, but he fought them off so stoutly that he lost no ground before them.
Síðan kastaði Kjartan vápnum ok vildi þá eigi verja sik, en þó var hann lítt sárr, en ákafliga vígmóðr.
Engi veitti Bolli svǫr máli Kjartans, en þó veitti hann honum banasár.
Bolli settisk þegar undir herðar honum, ok andaðisk Kjartan í knjám Bolla;
iðraðisk Bolli þegar verksins ok lýsti vígi á hendr sér.
Bolli sendi þá Ósvífrssonu til heraðs, en hann var eptir ok Þórarinn hjá líkunum.
Ok er þeir Ósvífrssynir kómu til Lauga, þá sǫgðu þeir tíðendin.
Guðrún lét vel yfir, ok var þá bundit um hǫndina Þórólfs, greri hon seint ok varð honum aldregi meinlaus.
Lík Kjartans var fœrt heim í Tungu.
Síðan reið Bolli heim til Lauga.
Guðrún gekk í móti honum ok spurði, hversu framorðit væri; Bolli kvað þá vera nær nóni dags þess.
Kjartan then threw down his weapons and refused to guard himself. He still had been hurt but very little, although he was all tired out with the fighting.
Kjartan then threw down his weapons and refused to guard himself. He still had been hurt but very little, although he was all tired out with the fighting.
Bolli had nothing to say to Kjartan’s words. Still he killed him.
Bolli had nothing to say to Kjartan’s words. Still he killed him.
Bolli caught him in his arms when he fell, and Kjartan died lying on Bolli’s knees.
Bolli caught him in his arms when he fell, and Kjartan died lying on Bolli’s knees.
Bolli was sorry for it as soon as it was done, and he called them to witness that he was answerable for this man’s death.
Bolli was sorry for it as soon as it was done, and he called them to witness that he was answerable for this man’s death.
Bolli sent the Osvifsons back home, while Thorarin and he stayed behind with the dead.
Bolli sent the Osvifsons back home, while Thorarin and he stayed behind with the dead.
And when the Osvifsons got home to Laugar they told the news.
And when the Osvifsons got home to Laugar they told the news.
Gudrun praised the deed. Thorolf’s wounded arm was then bound up, and he never had the full use of it afterward.
Gudrun praised the deed. Thorolf’s wounded arm was then bound up, and he never had the full use of it afterward.
Kjartan’s dead body was carried home to Tunga.
Kjartan’s dead body was carried home to Tunga.
After that Bolli rode back home to Laugar.
After that Bolli rode back home to Laugar.
Gudrun went out to meet him and asked how things (175) were getting on. Bolli answered that it was then near nones of that day.
Gudrun went out to meet him and asked how things (175) were getting on. Bolli answered that it was then near nones of that day.
Óláfr fór í móti líki Kjartans.
Hann sendi menn suðr til Borgar at segja Þorsteini Egilssyni þessi tíðendi, ok þat með, at hann vildi hafa styrk af honum til eptirmáls; ef stórmenni slœgisk í móti með Ósvífrssonum, þá kvazk hann allt vildu eiga undir sér;
slík orð sendi hann norðr í Víðidal til Guðmundar, mágs síns, ok þeira Ásgeirssona, ok þat með, at hann hafði lýst vígi Kjartans á hendr ǫllum mǫnnum, þeim er í tilfǫr hǫfðu verit, nema Óspaki Ósvífrssyni;
hann var áðr sekr um konu þá, er Aldís hét, hon var dóttir Hólmgǫngu-Ljóts af Ingjaldssandi;
þeira sonr var Úlfr, (157) er síðan var stallari Haralds konungs Sigurðarsonar; hann átti Jórunni Þorbergsdóttur; þeira sonr var Jón, faðir Erlends hímalda, fǫður Eysteins erkibiskups.
Óláfr hafði lýst vígsǫkinni til Þórsnessþings.
Hann lét flytja heim lík Kjartans ok tjalda yfir, því at þá var engi kirkja gǫr í Dǫlum.
En er Óláfr spurði, at Þorsteinn hafði skjótt við brugðit ok hafði tekit upp mikit fjǫlmenni, ok svá þeir Víðdœlir, þá lætr Óláfr safna mǫnnum fyrir um alla Dali; var þat mikit fjǫlmenni.
Síðan sendi Óláfr lið þat allt til Lauga ok mælti svá: “Þat er minn vili, at þér verið Bolla, ef hann þarf, eigi verr en þér fylgið mér,
því at nær er þat minni ætlan, at þeir þykkisk nǫkkut eiga eptir sínum hlut at sjá við hann útanheraðsmennirnir, er nú munu brátt koma á hendr oss.”
Olaf went out to meet Kjartan’s dead body on the way.
Olaf went out to meet Kjartan’s dead body on the way.
He also sent word down south to Borg to tell the tidings to Thorstein Egilson, and to tell him also that he counted on him for backing to prosecute and follow up, in case any of the great men should take sides with the Osvifsons against him. In such a case, he said, he should want to hold everything in his own hands.
He also sent word down south to Borg to tell the tidings to Thorstein Egilson, and to tell him also that he counted on him for backing to prosecute and follow up, in case any of the great men should take sides with the Osvifsons against him. In such a case, he said, he should want to hold everything in his own hands.
The same kind of a message he sent into the North, to Vididal, to his son-in-law Gudmund and the Asgeirsons. At the same time he told them that he had laid charges for Kjartan’s death against all the men who took part in the assault; with the exception of Ospak Osvifson.
The same kind of a message he sent into the North, to Vididal, to his son-in-law Gudmund and the Asgeirsons. At the same time he told them that he had laid charges for Kjartan’s death against all the men who took part in the assault; with the exception of Ospak Osvifson.
He was already outlaw on account of a certain woman by the name of Aldis; she was a daughter of Holmgongu-Ljot (Ljot the Duellist), of Ingjaldsand;
He was already outlaw on account of a certain woman by the name of Aldis; she was a daughter of Holmgongu-Ljot (Ljot the Duellist), of Ingjaldsand;
their son was Ulf, who afterward became Lord Marshal under King Harald Sigurdson (Harold Hardrede), and who married Jorunn Thorbergsdaughter; their son was John, the father of Erlend Himaldi, father of Eystein the Archbishop.
their son was Ulf, who afterward became Lord Marshal under King Harald Sigurdson (Harold Hardrede), and who married Jorunn Thorbergsdaughter; their son was John, the father of Erlend Himaldi, father of Eystein the Archbishop.
Olaf had laid charges for manslaughter to come up at the Thorsnes Thing.
Olaf had laid charges for manslaughter to come up at the Thorsnes Thing.
He had Kjartan’s body brought home and put up a tent over it; for at that time there had no church been built in the countryside of the Dales.
He had Kjartan’s body brought home and put up a tent over it; for at that time there had no church been built in the countryside of the Dales.
So soon as Olaf got word that Thorstein had set out at once and was coming on with a strong force, and that (178) the folks from Vididal were doing the same; then Olaf sent out a call to gather men together from all over the Dales. This made a very large body of men.
So soon as Olaf got word that Thorstein had set out at once and was coming on with a strong force, and that (178) the folks from Vididal were doing the same; then Olaf sent out a call to gather men together from all over the Dales. This made a very large body of men.
Olaf then sent the whole of this force of men on to Laugar and told them, “This is my wish, that you are to protect Bolli, in case of need, no less stoutly than you stand by me;
Olaf then sent the whole of this force of men on to Laugar and told them, “This is my wish, that you are to protect Bolli, in case of need, no less stoutly than you stand by me;
for I am persuaded that they think they have an account of their own to settle with him, these men from outside who will now be on our hands right soon.”
for I am persuaded that they think they have an account of their own to settle with him, these men from outside who will now be on our hands right soon.”
Ok er þessu var skipat með þessum hætti, þá kómu þeir Þorsteinn ok svá Víðdœlir, ok váru þeir inir óðustu.
Eggjaði Hallr Guðmundarson mest ok Kálfr Ásgeirsson at ganga skyldi at Bolla ok leita Ósvífrssona, þar til er þeir fyndisk, ok sǫgðu, at þeir myndi hvergi ór heraði farnir.
En með því at Óláfr latti mjǫk at fara, þá váru borin á milli sáttmál, ok var þat auðsótt við Bolla, því at hann bað Óláf einn ráða fyrir sína hǫnd;
en Ósvífr sá engi sín efni at mæla í móti, því at honum kom ekki lið frá Snorra.
Var þá lagðr sættarfundr í Ljárskógum; kómu mál ǫll óskoruð undir Óláf; skyldi koma fyrir víg Kjartans svá sem Óláfi líkaði, fé ok (158) mannsekðir.
Síðan var slitit sættarfundi.
Eigi kom Bolli til sættarfundarins, ok réð Óláfr því. Gørðum skyldi upp lúka á Þórsnessþingi.
Nú riðu þeir Mýramenn ok Víðdœlir í Hjarðarholt.
Þorsteinn Kuggason bauð Ásgeiri, syni Kjartans, til fóstrs til hugganar við Hrefnu;
en Hrefna fór norðr með brœðrum sínum ok var mjǫk harmþrungin;
en þó bar hon sik kurteisliga, því at hon var við hvern mann létt í máli.
Engan tók Hrefna mann eptir Kjartan.
Hon lifði litla hríð, síðan er hon kom norðr, ok er þat sǫgn manna, at hon hafi sprungit af stríði.
And directly when this had been arranged in this fashion, both Thorstein and the Vididal folks came on, and they were all furious.
And directly when this had been arranged in this fashion, both Thorstein and the Vididal folks came on, and they were all furious.
Hall Gudmundson and the Asgeirsons were all for going after Bolli at once and making a search for the Osvifsons until they were found, for they were sure they had not left the neighborhood.
Hall Gudmundson and the Asgeirsons were all for going after Bolli at once and making a search for the Osvifsons until they were found, for they were sure they had not left the neighborhood.
But inasmuch as Olaf spoke very strongly against their going, negotiations were presently opened for a peaceable settlement between them; which was easily arranged so far as concerned Bolli, in that he put his case in Olaf’s hands without reserve.
But inasmuch as Olaf spoke very strongly against their going, negotiations were presently opened for a peaceable settlement between them; which was easily arranged so far as concerned Bolli, in that he put his case in Olaf’s hands without reserve.
And Osvif could see no chance to make an objection, seeing that no help was coming to him from Snorri.
And Osvif could see no chance to make an objection, seeing that no help was coming to him from Snorri.
So arrangements were made for a meeting to settle the terms of composition, to take place at Ljarskog. The whole case fell into Olaf’s hands without reservation. Such redress was to be made for the slaying of Kjartan as Olaf might decide, both in fines and in outlawry.
So arrangements were made for a meeting to settle the terms of composition, to take place at Ljarskog. The whole case fell into Olaf’s hands without reservation. Such redress was to be made for the slaying of Kjartan as Olaf might decide, both in fines and in outlawry.
Then the meeting broke up.
Then the meeting broke up.
Bolli did not come to the meeting and for that reason Olaf decided that the award would be made known at the Thorsnes Thing.
Bolli did not come to the meeting and for that reason Olaf decided that the award would be made known at the Thorsnes Thing.
The Myra-folks and those from the Vididal then rode in to Hjardarholt.
The Myra-folks and those from the Vididal then rode in to Hjardarholt.
Thorstein Kuggason offered to adopt Kjartan’s son Asgeir as his foster-son, for Hrefna’s comfort.
Thorstein Kuggason offered to adopt Kjartan’s son Asgeir as his foster-son, for Hrefna’s comfort.
And Hrefna then went home with her brothers into the North, in great sorrow.
And Hrefna then went home with her brothers into the North, in great sorrow.
Yet she bore her grief with such courtesy that she was ever fair-spoken and (179) cheerful with all the folks.
Yet she bore her grief with such courtesy that she was ever fair-spoken and (179) cheerful with all the folks.
Hrefna took no husband after Kjartan.
Hrefna took no husband after Kjartan.
She lived but a little while after she came back into the North Country, and the story goes that she died of grief.
She lived but a little while after she came back into the North Country, and the story goes that she died of grief.
Lík Kjartans stóð uppi viku í Hjarðarholti.
Þorsteinn Egilsson hafði gera látit kirkju at Borg.
Hann flutti lík Kjartans heim með sér, ok var Kjartan at Borg grafinn; þá var kirkja nývígð ok í hvítaváðum.
Síðan leið til Þórsnessþings.
Váru þá mál til búin á hendr þeim Ósvífrssonum, ok urðu þeir allir sekir.
Var gefit fé til, at þeir skyldi vera ferjandi, en eiga eigi útkvæmt, meðan nǫkkurr Óláfssona væri á dǫgum eða Ásgeirr Kjartansson.
En Guðlaugr, systursonr Ósvífrs, skyldi vera ógildr fyrir tilfǫr ok fyrirsát við Kjartan, ok engar skyldi Þórólfr sœmðir hafa fyrir áverka þá, er hann hafði fengit.
Eigi vildi Óláfr láta sœkja Bolla ok bað hann koma fé fyrir sik.
Þetta líkaði þeim Halldóri ok Steinþóri stórilla, ok svá ǫllum sonum Óláfs, ok kváðu þungt mundu veita, ef Bolli skyldi sitja samheraðs við þá.
Óláfr kvað hlýða mundu, meðan hann væri á fótum.
Skip stóð uppi í Bjarnarhǫfn, er átti Auðunn festargarmr.
Kjartan’s body lay in state for a week at Hjardarholt.
Kjartan’s body lay in state for a week at Hjardarholt.
Thorstein Egilson had built a church at Borg.
Thorstein Egilson had built a church at Borg.
He carried Kjartan’s body back home with him, and Kjartan was buried at Borg. The church was at that time newly consecrated and was still draped in white.
He carried Kjartan’s body back home with him, and Kjartan was buried at Borg. The church was at that time newly consecrated and was still draped in white.
The time for the Thorsnes Thing presently came round.
The time for the Thorsnes Thing presently came round.
The case of the Osvifsons was then brought up and they were all outlawed.
The case of the Osvifsons was then brought up and they were all outlawed.
Composition was paid to make them lawfully transportable out of the country, but without the right to return to Iceland so long as any of Olaf’s sons were living, or Kjartan’s son Asgeir;
Composition was paid to make them lawfully transportable out of the country, but without the right to return to Iceland so long as any of Olaf’s sons were living, or Kjartan’s son Asgeir;
while the life of Osvif’s nephew Gudlaug was adjudged forfeit for his part in the waylaying and assault on Kjartan, and no satisfaction was awarded Thorolf for the injuries which he had received.
while the life of Osvif’s nephew Gudlaug was adjudged forfeit for his part in the waylaying and assault on Kjartan, and no satisfaction was awarded Thorolf for the injuries which he had received.
Olaf would not prosecute Bolli, and called on him instead to pay a composition.
Olaf would not prosecute Bolli, and called on him instead to pay a composition.
This was a very sore matter to Haldor and Steinthor, and to all of Olaf’s sons. They said they should take it hard if Bolli was to continue in the same neighborhood with them.
This was a very sore matter to Haldor and Steinthor, and to all of Olaf’s sons. They said they should take it hard if Bolli was to continue in the same neighborhood with them.
But Olaf told them they would have to mind so long as he was up and about.
But Olaf told them they would have to mind so long as he was up and about.
There was a ship laid up in Bjarnarhafn which belonged to Audun Festargann (Bandog).
There was a ship laid up in Bjarnarhafn which belonged to Audun Festargann (Bandog).
Auðunn festargarmr fór útan þat sumar ok braut skipit við Færeyjar.
Þar tyndisk hvert mannsbarn af skipinu; þótti þat mjǫk hafa á hrinit, er Ósvífr hafði spát.
Ósvífrssynir fóru útan þat sumar, ok kom engi þeira út síðan.
Lauk þar eptirmáli, at Óláfr þótti hafa vaxit af því, at hann lét þar með beini ganga, er makligast var, þar er þeir váru Ósvífrssynir, en hlífði Bolla fyrir frændsemis sakar.
Óláfr þakkaði mǫnnum vel liðveizlu.
Bolli hafði landkaup í Tungu at ráði Óláfs.
Þat er sagt, at Óláfr lifði þrjá vetr, síðan Kjartan var veginn.
En síðan, er hann var allr, skiptu þeir synir hans arfi eptir hann; tók Halldórr bústað í Hjarðarholti.
Þorgerðr, móðir þeira, var með Halldóri.
Hon var mjǫk heiptarfingin til Bolla, ok þótti sár fóstrlaunin.
Audun set sail for Norway that summer and was wrecked in the Faroes,
Audun set sail for Norway that summer and was wrecked in the Faroes,
and every man of the ship’s company was lost; so that it seemed to have turned out very much as Osvif had foretold.
and every man of the ship’s company was lost; so that it seemed to have turned out very much as Osvif had foretold.
The Osvifsons sailed to Norway that summer, and none of them ever came back.
The Osvifsons sailed to Norway that summer, and none of them ever came back.
The outcome of the case was that Olaf was thought all the better of for having cut to the bone where it was well deserved, in the case of the Osvifsons, and for having spared Bolli for kinship’s sake.
The outcome of the case was that Olaf was thought all the better of for having cut to the bone where it was well deserved, in the case of the Osvifsons, and for having spared Bolli for kinship’s sake.
Olaf duly thanked his friends for their backing.
Olaf duly thanked his friends for their backing.
Bolli got the lands of Tunga which he had bought, with Olaf’s consent.
Bolli got the lands of Tunga which he had bought, with Olaf’s consent.
It is related that Olaf lived three years after Kjartan was killed.
It is related that Olaf lived three years after Kjartan was killed.
And after he had passed away his sons divided the property between them which he left. Haldor took over the home place at Hjardarholt.
And after he had passed away his sons divided the property between them which he left. Haldor took over the home place at Hjardarholt.
Thorgerd made her home with Haldor.
Thorgerd made her home with Haldor.
She had a great hatred of Bolli, and felt that he had paid her a sore price, and unearned, for her care of him as her foster-child.
She had a great hatred of Bolli, and felt that he had paid her a sore price, and unearned, for her care of him as her foster-child.
Þau Guðrún ok Bolli settu bú saman um várit í Sælingsdalstungu, ok varð þat brátt risuligt.
Þau Bolli ok Guðrún gátu son.
Þeim sveini var nafn gefit, ok kallaðr Þorleikr.
Hann var vænn sveinn snimma ok (160) vel fljótligr.
Halldórr Óláfsson bjó í Hjarðarholti, sem fyrr var ritat; hann var mjǫk fyrir þeim brœðrum.
Þat vár, at Kjartan var veginn, tók Þorgerðr Egilsdóttir vist frændsveini sínum með Þorkatli at Hafratindum.
Sveinninn gætti þar fjár um sumarit.
Honum var Kjartan mjǫk harmdauði sem ǫðrum.
Hann mátti aldri tala til Kjartans, svá at Þorkell væri hjá, því at hann mælti jafnan illa til hans ok kvað hann verit hafa hvítan mann ok huglausan, ok hermði hann opt eptir, hverneg hann hafði við orðit áverkann.
Sveininum varð at þessu illa getit, ok ferr í Hjarðarholt ok segir til Halldóri ok Þorgerði ok bað þau viðtǫku.
Þorgerðr bað hann vera í vist sinni til vetrar.
Sveinninn kvazk eigi hafa þrótt til at vera þar lengr, - “ok myndir þú mik eigi biðja þessa, ef þú vissir, hversu mikla raun ek hefi af þessu.”
A son was born to Gudrun and Bolli.
A son was born to Gudrun and Bolli.
This boy was given a name and called Thorleik.
This boy was given a name and called Thorleik.
He quickly grew to be a fine boy, and a very active one.
He quickly grew to be a fine boy, and a very active one.
Haldor Olafson lived at Hjardarholt, as was written before. He was quite the foremost of the brothers.
Haldor Olafson lived at Hjardarholt, as was written before. He was quite the foremost of the brothers.
The spring after Kjartan’s death Thorgerd Egilsdaughter put out to service with Thorkel of Hafratindar a certain boy who was a relative of hers.
The spring after Kjartan’s death Thorgerd Egilsdaughter put out to service with Thorkel of Hafratindar a certain boy who was a relative of hers.
The boy herded sheep there that summer.
The boy herded sheep there that summer.
To him as to many others Kjartan’s death was a bitter grief.
To him as to many others Kjartan’s death was a bitter grief.
He was not allowed to talk about Kjartan while Thorkel was about, for Thorkel was in the habit of speaking ill of him and calling him a white-livered fellow and fainthearted; and he used to mimic Kjartan, how he had behaved when he got his death-wound.
He was not allowed to talk about Kjartan while Thorkel was about, for Thorkel was in the habit of speaking ill of him and calling him a white-livered fellow and fainthearted; and he used to mimic Kjartan, how he had behaved when he got his death-wound.
The boy felt hurt with all this and went back to Hjardarholt and told a:bout it to Haldor and Thorgerd and begged them to take him home.
The boy felt hurt with all this and went back to Hjardarholt and told a:bout it to Haldor and Thorgerd and begged them to take him home.
Thorgerd told him to keep his place through the winter.
Thorgerd told him to keep his place through the winter.
The boy said he could put up with it no longer, “and you would not ask me to if you only knew how hard it is for me.”
The boy said he could put up with it no longer, “and you would not ask me to if you only knew how hard it is for me.”
Halldórr svarar fá hér um, en bað Þorgerði ráða vist sveinsins.
Fám dǫgum síðar ríðr (161) Halldórr heiman ok þeir nǫkkurir menn saman.
Hann ferr til Hafratinda ok tók hús á Þorkatli; var Þorkell leiddr út ok drepinn, ok vara hann ódrengiliga við sitt líflát.
Engu lét Halldórr ræna ok fór heim við svá búit.
Vel lét Þorgerðr yfir þessu verki, ok þótti minning sjá betri en engi.
Þetta sumar var kyrrt at kalla, ok var þó it fresta með þeim Bolla ok Óláfssonum;
létu þeir brœðr it ólinligsta við Bolla, en hann vægði í ǫllu fyrir þeim frændum, þess er hann minnkaði sik í engu, því at hann var inn mesti kappsmaðr.
Bolli hafði fjǫlmennt ok helt sik ríkmannliga, því at eigi skorti fé.
Steinþórr Óláfsson bjó á Dǫnustǫðum í Laxárdal; hann átti Þuríði Ásgeirsdóttur, er átt hafði Þorkell kuggi; þeira sonr hét Steinþórr, er kallaðr var Gróslappi.
Haldor had little to say to this, but he told Thorgerd to do as she liked about the boy’s service.
Haldor had little to say to this, but he told Thorgerd to do as she liked about the boy’s service.
A few days later Haldor set out from home and several men with him.
A few days later Haldor set out from home and several men with him.
He went to Hafratindar and caught Thorkel at home. Thorkel was brought out-of-doors and put to death, and he met his death in no manly fashion.
He went to Hafratindar and caught Thorkel at home. Thorkel was brought out-of-doors and put to death, and he met his death in no manly fashion.
Haldor did no plundering, but went back home when this was done.
Haldor did no plundering, but went back home when this was done.
Thorgerd spoke well of what was done and said that this reminder was at least better than nothing.
Thorgerd spoke well of what was done and said that this reminder was at least better than nothing.
The summer passed over in peace, after a fashion, although relations were very much strained between Bolli and the Olafsons.
The summer passed over in peace, after a fashion, although relations were very much strained between Bolli and the Olafsons.
The brothers were openly and ferociously hostile to Bolli, but he yielded at all points before his cousins, so far as he could without losing face; for he was quite stubbornly set on holding his place.
The brothers were openly and ferociously hostile to Bolli, but he yielded at all points before his cousins, so far as he could without losing face; for he was quite stubbornly set on holding his place.
Haldor kept many men about him and carried on in grand style, for there was no lack of means.
Haldor kept many men about him and carried on in grand style, for there was no lack of means.
Steindor Olafson was living at Dunustadir in the Laxárdal. His wife was Thurid Asgeirsdaughter, who had been the wife of Thorkel Kuggason. Their son was Steindor, who was nicknamed Groslappi.
Steindor Olafson was living at Dunustadir in the Laxárdal. His wife was Thurid Asgeirsdaughter, who had been the wife of Thorkel Kuggason. Their son was Steindor, who was nicknamed Groslappi.
Þá segir Þorgerðr (162) ok blés við: “Veit ek at vísu,” segir hon, “at hér býr Bolli, bróðurbani yðvarr, ok furðu ólíkir urðu þér yðrum frændum gǫfgum, er þér vilið eigi hefna þvílíks bróður, sem Kjartan var,
ok eigi myndi svá gera Egill, móðurfaðir yðvarr, ok er illt at eiga dáðlausa sonu;
ok víst ætla ek yðr til þess betr fellda, at þér værið dœtr fǫður yðvars ok værið giptar.
Kemr hér at því, Halldórr, sem mælt er, at einn er auðkvisi ættar hverrar, ok sú er mér auðsæst ógipta Óláfs, at honum glapðisk svá mjǫk sonaeignin;
kveð ek þik af því at þessu, Halldórr,” segir hon, “at þú þykkisk mest fyrir yðr brœðrum.
Nú munu vér aptr snúa, ok var þetta ørendit mest, at minna yðr á þetta, ef þér mynðið eigi áðr.”
Then said Thorgerd, with a sigh, “Indeed I know,” said she, “that here lives Bolli, who killed your brother. And you boys are shockingly unlike your noble kindred; you who will not avenge such a brother as Kjartan was.
Then said Thorgerd, with a sigh, “Indeed I know,” said she, “that here lives Bolli, who killed your brother. And you boys are shockingly unlike your noble kindred; you who will not avenge such a brother as Kjartan was.
Not so would your mother’s father Egil have done. And it is an ill thing to be the mother of worthless sons.
Not so would your mother’s father Egil have done. And it is an ill thing to be the mother of worthless sons.
I am sure you are better fit to have been your father’s daughters and so to have been married off decently.
I am sure you are better fit to have been your father’s daughters and so to have been married off decently.
The old saw comes true, Haldor, that every kindred has its shortcomings; and this was Olaf’s great failing that he missed it sorely in the getting of sons.
The old saw comes true, Haldor, that every kindred has its shortcomings; and this was Olaf’s great failing that he missed it sorely in the getting of sons.
I am saying all this to you, Haldor,” said she, “because you come first among your brothers.
I am saying all this to you, Haldor,” said she, “because you come first among your brothers.
Now let us turn back home. And this was what I brought you (185) out for; to remind you of this thing, in case you do not remember it anyway.”
Now let us turn back home. And this was what I brought you (185) out for; to remind you of this thing, in case you do not remember it anyway.”
Halldórr svarar hér fá um, ok þó þrútnaði honum mjǫk móðr til Bolla.
Líðr nú vetr sjá, ok er surnar kemr, þá líðr framan til þings.
Halldórr lýsir þingreið sinni ok þeir brœðr hans; ríða þeir með mikinn flokk ok tjalda búð þá, er Óláfr hafði átt; var þingit kyrrt ok tíðendalaust.
Þeir váru á þingi norðan Víðdœlir, synir Guðmundar Sǫlmundarsonar.
Barði Guðmundarson var þá átján vetra gamall; hann var mikill maðr ok sterkr.
Óláfssynir bjóða Barða, frænda sínum, heim með sér ok leggja til þess mǫrg orð.
Hallr Guðmundarson var þá eigi hér á landi.
(163) Barði tók þessu vel, því at ástúðigt var með þeim frændum.
Ríðr nú Barði vestr af þingi með þeim Óláfssonum; koma þeir heim í Hjarðarholt, ok er Barði þar um sumarit, þat sem eptir var.
He had little to say to it all, and yet his ill-will toward Bolli hardened and grew greater for it.
He had little to say to it all, and yet his ill-will toward Bolli hardened and grew greater for it.
So now the winter is past and summer comes on, and then the time for the Thing is at hand.
So now the winter is past and summer comes on, and then the time for the Thing is at hand.
Haldor makes known his going to the Thing, and his brothers also. They rode down with a large following and set up their booths which had belonged to Olaf. The Thing passed over quietly and with nothing to tell of.
Haldor makes known his going to the Thing, and his brothers also. They rode down with a large following and set up their booths which had belonged to Olaf. The Thing passed over quietly and with nothing to tell of.
At the Thing there were the Vididal folks, the sons of Gudmund Solmundarson.
At the Thing there were the Vididal folks, the sons of Gudmund Solmundarson.
Bárdi Gudmundarson was then eighteen years old, large and stout.
Bárdi Gudmundarson was then eighteen years old, large and stout.
The Olafsons asked Bárdi to come home with them, and they spent many words on it.
The Olafsons asked Bárdi to come home with them, and they spent many words on it.
Hall Gudmundarson, too, was in this country at the time.
Hall Gudmundarson, too, was in this country at the time.
Bárdi was glad to accept, for these kinsmen were very close friends.
Bárdi was glad to accept, for these kinsmen were very close friends.
So Bárdi rode out west with the Olafsons from the Thing to Hjardarholt. And Bárdi spent the rest of the summer there.
So Bárdi rode out west with the Olafsons from the Thing to Hjardarholt. And Bárdi spent the rest of the summer there.
En þó at Þorsteinn mælti slíkt, þá kom fyrir ekki.
Halldórr sendir orð Lamba, fǫðurbróður sínum, ok er hann kom á fund Halldórs, þá sagði hann honum ætlan sína.
Lambi fýsti mjǫk, at þetta skyldi fram ganga.
Þorgerðr húsfreyja var ok mikill hvatamaðr, at þessi ferð skyldi takask; kvazk aldri hefnt þykkja Kjartans, nema Bolli kœmi fyrir.
Eptir þetta búask þeir til ferðar.
Í þessi ferð váru þeir Óláfssynir fjórir, inn fimmti var Barði, - þessir váru Óláfssynir: Halldórr ok Steinþórr, Helgi ok Hǫskuldr, en Barði var sonr Guðmundar, - sétti Lambi, sjaundi Þorsteinn, átti Helgi, mágr hans, níundi Án hrísmagi.
Þorgerðr rézk ok til ferðar með þeim; heldr lǫttu þeir þess ok kváðu slíkt ekki kvennaferðir;
hon kvazk at vísu fara skyldu, - “því at ek veit gørst um yðr sonu mína, at þurfi þér brýningina.”
But for all of this kind that Thorstein had to say, nothing came of it.
But for all of this kind that Thorstein had to say, nothing came of it.
Haldor sent word to his uncle Lambi and when he came on Haldor told him what he had planned.
Haldor sent word to his uncle Lambi and when he came on Haldor told him what he had planned.
Lambi spoke strongly for carrying it through.
Lambi spoke strongly for carrying it through.
Thorgerd the housewife, too, was very much set on seeing the plan go through. She would never feel that Kjartan’s death had been avenged until Bolli’s life paid for it.
Thorgerd the housewife, too, was very much set on seeing the plan go through. She would never feel that Kjartan’s death had been avenged until Bolli’s life paid for it.
So then they got ready to go.
So then they got ready to go.
In this raid there were the four sons of Olaf, with Bárdi making a fifth. The sons of Olaf were these: Haldor and Steindor, Helgi and Höskuld; Bárdi was the son of Gudmund; sixth Lambi; seventh Thorstein; eighth (188) Helgi, Thorstein’s brother-in-law; ninth Án Bramblebelly.
In this raid there were the four sons of Olaf, with Bárdi making a fifth. The sons of Olaf were these: Haldor and Steindor, Helgi and Höskuld; Bárdi was the son of Gudmund; sixth Lambi; seventh Thorstein; eighth (188) Helgi, Thorstein’s brother-in-law; ninth Án Bramblebelly.
Thorgerd too set out with them. They rather spoke against her doing so; said this was not woman’s work.
Thorgerd too set out with them. They rather spoke against her doing so; said this was not woman’s work.
But she said, Indeed she was going; “for I know you, my sons, better than anyone else, and that you will need a whetting.”
But she said, Indeed she was going; “for I know you, my sons, better than anyone else, and that you will need a whetting.”
Eptir þat ríða þeir heiman ór Hjarðarholti níu saman; Þorgerðr var in tíunda.
Þau ríða inn eptir fjǫrum ok svá til Ljárskóga; þat var ǫndverða nótt; létta eigi, fyrr en þau koma í Sælingsdal, þá er nǫkkut var mornat.
Skógr þykkr var í dalnum í þann tíð.
Bolli var þar í seli, sem Halldórr hafði spurt; selin stóðu við ána, þar sem nú heita Bollatóptir.
Holt mikit gengr fyrir ofan selit ok ofan at Stakkagili; milli hlíðarinnar ok holtsins er engi mikit, er í Barmi heitir; þar unnu húskarlar Bolla.
Þeir Halldórr ok hans fǫrunautar riðu at Øxnagróf, yfir Ránarvǫllu ok svá fyrir ofan Hamarengi; þat er gegnt selinu; þeir vissu, at mart manna var at selinu;
stíga af baki ok ætluðu at bíða þess, er menn fœri frá selinu til verks.
Smalamaðr Bolla fór at fé snimma um morgininn uppi í hlíðinni; hann sá mennina í skóginum ok svá hrossin, er bundin váru; hann grunar, at þetta muni eigi vera friðmenn, er svá leyniliga fóru.
Hann stefnir þegar heim it gegnsta til selsins ok ætlar at segja Bolla kvámu manna.
Halldórr var skyggn maðr.
Hann sér, at maðrinn hleypr ofan ór (166) hlíðinni ok stefndi til selsins.
Hann segir fǫrunautum sínum, at þat mun vera smalamaðr Bolla - “ok mun hafa sét ferð vára; skulu vér nú gera í móti honum ok láta hann engri njósn koma til selsins.”
They rode out on their way from Hjardarholt, the nine of them together. Thorgerd made a tenth.
They rode out on their way from Hjardarholt, the nine of them together. Thorgerd made a tenth.
They followed the beach inward along the waterside as far as Ljarskog. This was in the early night. They made no stop until they came into Sælingsdal, about the time day was breaking.
They followed the beach inward along the waterside as far as Ljarskog. This was in the early night. They made no stop until they came into Sælingsdal, about the time day was breaking.
At that time there was a thick growth of woods in the valley.
At that time there was a thick growth of woods in the valley.
Bolli was there in the Sel, as Haldor had been told. The dairy houses were next the river, at the place which is now called Bollatoptir.
Bolli was there in the Sel, as Haldor had been told. The dairy houses were next the river, at the place which is now called Bollatoptir.
A wooded ridge runs back of the dairy house, all the way down to Stakkagil. Between this wooded slope and the hillside is a broad meadow called the Barm. There Bolli’s farmhands were at work.
A wooded ridge runs back of the dairy house, all the way down to Stakkagil. Between this wooded slope and the hillside is a broad meadow called the Barm. There Bolli’s farmhands were at work.
Haldor and those with him rode in by way of Oxnagrof, across the Rana uplands, and so crossed over above the Hamar meadow, which lies next the dairy houses.
Haldor and those with him rode in by way of Oxnagrof, across the Rana uplands, and so crossed over above the Hamar meadow, which lies next the dairy houses.
They dismounted and were expecting to wait there until the men had left the house and were gone to work.
They dismounted and were expecting to wait there until the men had left the house and were gone to work.
Bolli’s shepherd was out early that morning to see to the cattle up the hillside. He caught sight of the men in the thicket and of their horses, which were tied. He suspected that these would probably not be peaceable folk who were moving about so secretly.
Bolli’s shepherd was out early that morning to see to the cattle up the hillside. He caught sight of the men in the thicket and of their horses, which were tied. He suspected that these would probably not be peaceable folk who were moving about so secretly.
He started right back for the Sel, by the short way, to tell Bolli of the men’s being there.
He started right back for the Sel, by the short way, to tell Bolli of the men’s being there.
Haldor was quick-sighted,
Haldor was quick-sighted,
and he caught sight of the herdsman running down the hillside and making for the Sel.
and he caught sight of the herdsman running down the hillside and making for the Sel.
He told the others that (190) “there is Bolli’s shepherd, and he will have seen us here. We will have to head him off and not let him bring word to the Sel.”
He told the others that (190) “there is Bolli’s shepherd, and he will have seen us here. We will have to head him off and not let him bring word to the Sel.”
Þeir gerðu, sem hann mælti fyrir.
Án hrísmagi varð þeira skjótastr ok getr farit sveininn, tekr hann upp ok keyrir niðr; þat fall varð á þá leið, at hryggrinn brotnaði í sundr í sveininum.
Síðan riðu þeir at selinu; selin váru tvau, svefnsel ok búr.
Bolli hafði verit snimma á fótum um morgininn ok skipat til vinnu, en lagizk þá til svefns, er húskarlar fóru í brott.
Þau váru tvau í selinu, Bolli ok Guðrún.
Þau vǫknuðu við dyninn, er þeir hljópu af baki; heyrðu þau ok, er þeir rœddu um, hverr fyrstr skyldi inn ganga í selit at Bolla.
Bolli kenndi mál Halldórs ok fleiri þeira fǫrunauta.
Boili mælti við Guðrúnu ok bað hana ganga ór selinu í brott ok segir, at sá einn myndi fundr þeira verða, er henni myndi ekki gaman at verða.
Guðrún kvazk hyggja, at þau ein tíðendi myndi þar verða, at hon myndi sjá mega, ok kvað Bolla ekki mundu mein at sér, þótt hon væri nær honum stǫdd.
Bolli kvazk þessu ráða vilja, ok svá var, at Guðrún gekk út ór selinu.
Hon gekk ofan fyrir brekkuna til lœkjar þess, er þar fell, ok tók at þvá lérept sín.
Bolli var nú einn í selinu; hann tók vápn sín, setti hjálm á hǫfuð sér ok hafði skjǫld fyrir sér, en sverðit Fótbít í hendi; enga hafði hann brynju.
Þeir Halldórr rœða nú um með sér, hversu at skal orka, því at engi var fúss at ganga inn í selit.
Þá mælti Án hrísmagi: “Eru þeir menn hér í ferð, er Kjartani eru skyldri at frændsemi en ek; en engi mun sá, at minnisamara muni vera um þann atburð, er Kjartan lézk, en mér.
Var mér þat þá í hug, at ek var heim fœrðr í Tungu ódauðr (167) at einu, en Kjartan var veginn, at ek mynda feginn vinna Bolla mein, ef ek kœmumk í fœri.
Mun ek fyrstr inn ganga í selit.”
They did as he told them.
They did as he told them.
Án Bramblebelly outran the others and caught up with the boy. He picked him up and threw him on the ground. He struck the ground in such a way that the boy’s back was broken.
Án Bramblebelly outran the others and caught up with the boy. He picked him up and threw him on the ground. He struck the ground in such a way that the boy’s back was broken.
After this they rode on to the dairy houses. There were two cabins; a sleeping-cabin and a store room.
After this they rode on to the dairy houses. There were two cabins; a sleeping-cabin and a store room.
Bolli had been out early that morning to set the day’s work going and had lain down to sleep after the workmen were gone.
Bolli had been out early that morning to set the day’s work going and had lain down to sleep after the workmen were gone.
The two were alone in the cabin, Bolli and Gudrun.
The two were alone in the cabin, Bolli and Gudrun.
They woke up at the noise when the men dismounted. And then they heard them arguing about who was to go first into the cabin to meet Bolli.
They woke up at the noise when the men dismounted. And then they heard them arguing about who was to go first into the cabin to meet Bolli.
Bolli knew Haldor by his voice, as well as some of the others.
Bolli knew Haldor by his voice, as well as some of the others.
Bolli told Gudrun to get out of the cabin and out of the way, and that the meeting was sure to be such as would be no comfort to her.
Bolli told Gudrun to get out of the cabin and out of the way, and that the meeting was sure to be such as would be no comfort to her.
But Gudrun replied that she believed nothing would take place which she could not afford to see, and that she would not get in Bolli’s way even if she did stay by him.
But Gudrun replied that she believed nothing would take place which she could not afford to see, and that she would not get in Bolli’s way even if she did stay by him.
But Bolli said she would have to do as he told her, and Gudrun went out of the cabin.
But Bolli said she would have to do as he told her, and Gudrun went out of the cabin.
She went down the bank to the brook that ran by the place and started washing her linen.
She went down the bank to the brook that ran by the place and started washing her linen.
So Bolli was left alone in the cabin. He took his weapons, put a helmet on his head, covered himself with a shield, and carried Fotbit in his hand. He had no mail-coat.
So Bolli was left alone in the cabin. He took his weapons, put a helmet on his head, covered himself with a shield, and carried Fotbit in his hand. He had no mail-coat.
Haldor and his men were debating how to go about it, for no one wanted to go into the cabin.
Haldor and his men were debating how to go about it, for no one wanted to go into the cabin.
At last Án Bramblebelly spoke up, “There are those men here with us who are nearer kin to Kjartan than I, but there is no one who has a better reason to remember what took place at the time when Kjartan lost his life than I.
At last Án Bramblebelly spoke up, “There are those men here with us who are nearer kin to Kjartan than I, but there is no one who has a better reason to remember what took place at the time when Kjartan lost his life than I.
It stuck in my mind that time when I was carried to Tunga, barely not quite dead, and Kjartan killed, that I would be (191) glad to do Bolli a mischief if I ever got a chance.
It stuck in my mind that time when I was carried to Tunga, barely not quite dead, and Kjartan killed, that I would be (191) glad to do Bolli a mischief if I ever got a chance.
Síðan gengr Án inn í selit hart ok skjótt ok hafði skjǫldinn yfir hǫfði sér ok sneri fram inu mjóra.
Bolli hjó til hans með Fótbít ok af skjaldarsþorðinn, ok þar með klauf hann Án í herðar niðr; fekk hann þegar bana.
Síðan gekk Lambi inn; hann hafði hlíf fyrir sér, en sverð brugðit í hendi.
Í því bili kippði Bolli Fótbít ór sárinu, ok bar þá af honum skjǫldinn.
Þá lagði Lambi í lær Bolla, ok varð þat mikit sár.
Bolli hjó í móti á ǫxl Lamba, ok renndi sverðit ofan með síðunni; hann varð þegar óvígr, ok aldri síðan varð honum hǫndin meinlaus, meðan hann lifði.
Í þessarri svipan gekk inn Helgi Harðbeinsson ok hafði í hendi spjót þat, er alnar var lǫng fjǫðrin ok járni vafit skaptit.
En er Bolli sér þat, þá kastar hann sverðinu, en tók skjǫldinn tveim hǫndum ok gekk fram at selsdurunum í móti Helga.
Helgi lagði til Bolla með spjótinu í gegnum skjǫldinn ok sjálfan hann.
Bolli hallaðisk upp at selsvegginum.
Nú þustu menn inn í selit, Halldórr ok brœðr hans.
Þorgerðr gekk ok inn í selit.
Then Án went in with a rush into the cabin. He carried his shield over his head, with the narrow end forward.
Then Án went in with a rush into the cabin. He carried his shield over his head, with the narrow end forward.
Bolli struck down at him with Fotbit and sheared off the tail end of the shield, and split Án’s skull down through the neck. He dropped dead on the spot, as was to be expected.
Bolli struck down at him with Fotbit and sheared off the tail end of the shield, and split Án’s skull down through the neck. He dropped dead on the spot, as was to be expected.
Lambi went next. He was carrying a shield and had his drawn sword in his hand.
Lambi went next. He was carrying a shield and had his drawn sword in his hand.
At that moment Bolli was pulling Fotbit out of the wound and his shield was shoved to one side.
At that moment Bolli was pulling Fotbit out of the wound and his shield was shoved to one side.
Then Lambi cut Bolli across the thigh, and it made a sore wound.
Then Lambi cut Bolli across the thigh, and it made a sore wound.
In return Bolli struck Lambi’s shoulder so that the sword ran all the way down his flank. It put him out of action at once, and he never had full use of his arm afterward, as long as he lived.
In return Bolli struck Lambi’s shoulder so that the sword ran all the way down his flank. It put him out of action at once, and he never had full use of his arm afterward, as long as he lived.
Just then Helgi Hardbeinson drove in. He carried a spear the head of which was an ell long and the shaft of which was wound with iron.
Just then Helgi Hardbeinson drove in. He carried a spear the head of which was an ell long and the shaft of which was wound with iron.
When Bolli saw all this he threw away the sword and took his shield between his two hands and pushed forward so as to meet Helgi in the doorway.
When Bolli saw all this he threw away the sword and took his shield between his two hands and pushed forward so as to meet Helgi in the doorway.
Helgi drove at Bolli with the spear, through the shield and through Bolli himself.
Helgi drove at Bolli with the spear, through the shield and through Bolli himself.
Bolli leaned up against the cabin-wall.
Bolli leaned up against the cabin-wall.
The rest of them now crowded into the cabin, Haldor and his brothers.
The rest of them now crowded into the cabin, Haldor and his brothers.
Thorgerd too went into the cabin.
Thorgerd too went into the cabin.
Þorgerðr svarar máli (168) hans ok sagði eigi spara þurfa at vinna ógrunsamliga at við Bolla; bað þá ganga milli bols ok hǫfuðs.
Bolli stóð þá enn upp við selsvegginn ok helt at sér kyrtlinum, at eigi hlypi út iðrin.
Þá hljóp Steinþórr Óláfsson at Bolla ok hjó til hans með øxi mikilli á hálsinn við herðarnar, ok gekk þegar af hǫfuðit.
Þorgerðr bað hann heilan njóta handa, kvað nú Guðrúnu mundu eiga at búa um rauða skǫr Bolla um hríð.
Eptir þetta ganga þeir út ór selinu.
Guðrún gengr þá neðan frá lœknum ok til tals við þá Halldór ok spurði, hvat til tíðenda hafði gǫrzk í skiptum þeira Bolla.
Þeir segja slíkt, sem í hafði gǫrzk.
Guðrún var í námkyrtli, ok við vefjarupphlutr þrǫngr, en sveigr mikill á hǫfði.
Hon hafði knytt um sik blæju, ok váru í mǫrk blá ok trǫf fyrir enda.
Helgi Harðbeinsson gekk at Guðrúnu ok tók blæjuendann ok þerrði blóð af spjótinu því inu sama, er hann lagði Bolla í gegnum með.
Guðrún leit til hans ok brosti við.
Þá mælti Halldórr: “Þetta er illmannliga gǫrt ok grimmliga.”
Thorgerd spoke up in answer, and told them not to spare making thorough work of it with Bolli; told them to pass between head and body of (192) him.
Thorgerd spoke up in answer, and told them not to spare making thorough work of it with Bolli; told them to pass between head and body of (192) him.
Bolli was then still standing up against the cabin wall and holding his kirtle up against him to keep the entrails from running out.
Bolli was then still standing up against the cabin wall and holding his kirtle up against him to keep the entrails from running out.
Steindor Olafson then jwnped at Bolli and struck him with an axe across the neck close down by the shoulders, and the head came clean off.
Steindor Olafson then jwnped at Bolli and struck him with an axe across the neck close down by the shoulders, and the head came clean off.
Thorgerd called a blessing on the work of his hands, and added that Gudrun would now have something to do about Bolli’s ruddy head for a while.
Thorgerd called a blessing on the work of his hands, and added that Gudrun would now have something to do about Bolli’s ruddy head for a while.
After this they went out of the cabin.
After this they went out of the cabin.
Gudrun then came up from the brook and spoke to Haldor and his folks, and asked what there was to tell of their doings with Bolli.
Gudrun then came up from the brook and spoke to Haldor and his folks, and asked what there was to tell of their doings with Bolli.
They told her what had taken place.
They told her what had taken place.
Gudrun was dressed in a close-fitting smock with a woven bodice, and was wearing a wide turban on her head.
Gudrun was dressed in a close-fitting smock with a woven bodice, and was wearing a wide turban on her head.
She had tied about her a broad linen sash with blue stripes and a fringe at the ends.
She had tied about her a broad linen sash with blue stripes and a fringe at the ends.
Helgi Hardbeinson stepped up to Gudrun and took up the sash end and wiped the blood off his spear with it, the same with which he had thrust Bolli through the body.
Helgi Hardbeinson stepped up to Gudrun and took up the sash end and wiped the blood off his spear with it, the same with which he had thrust Bolli through the body.
Gudrun looked him in the face and smiled.
Gudrun looked him in the face and smiled.
Then said Haldor, “That was a mean and nasty thing to do.”
Then said Haldor, “That was a mean and nasty thing to do.”
(170) Býsk nú Snorri í brott, ok gaf Guðrún honum virðuligar gjafar; ríðr nú Snorri heim, ok var kyrrt at kalla þau missari.
Inn næsta vetr eptir víg Bolla fœddi Guðrún barn; þat var sveinn; sá var Bolli nefndr.
Hann var snimma mikill ok vænn; Guðrún unni honum mikit.
Ok er vetr sá líðr af ok vár kom, þá ferr fram kaup þat, sem rœtt hafði verit, at þau myndi kaupa um lǫnd Snorri ok Guðrún.
Rézk Snorri í Tungu ok bjó þar, meðan hann lifði.
Guðrún ferr til Helgafells ok þau Ósvífr ok setja þar bú saman risuligt; vaxa þar upp synir Guðrúnar, Þorleikr ok Bolli.
Þorleikr var þá fjǫgurra vetra gamall, er Bolli var veginn, faðir hans.
Snorri then got ready to leave, and Gudrun gave him honorable gifts on his leaving. So Snorri rode back home, and there might be said to be peace for the rest of the year.
Snorri then got ready to leave, and Gudrun gave him honorable gifts on his leaving. So Snorri rode back home, and there might be said to be peace for the rest of the year.
The winter following the slaying of Bolli, Gudrun gave birth to a child. It was a boy. He was named Bolli.
The winter following the slaying of Bolli, Gudrun gave birth to a child. It was a boy. He was named Bolli.
He quickly grew to be a large and fine boy. Gudrun was very fond of him.
He quickly grew to be a large and fine boy. Gudrun was very fond of him.
And when that winter passed and spring came on, then the trade went through which they had arranged, by which Snorri and Gudrun exchanged their lands.
And when that winter passed and spring came on, then the trade went through which they had arranged, by which Snorri and Gudrun exchanged their lands.
Snorri moved in at Tunga, and there he lived the rest of his life.
Snorri moved in at Tunga, and there he lived the rest of his life.
Gudrun moved out to Helgafell, and Osvif with her, and there they set up a grand establishment. There Gudrun’s two sons, Thorleik and Bolli grew up.
Gudrun moved out to Helgafell, and Osvif with her, and there they set up a grand establishment. There Gudrun’s two sons, Thorleik and Bolli grew up.
Thorleik was three years old at the time his father Bolli was killed.
Thorleik was three years old at the time his father Bolli was killed.
Maðr hét Þorgils ok var Hǫlluson; en því var hann kenndr við móður sína, at hon lifði lengr en faðir hans; hann hét Snorri ok var sonr Álfs ór Dǫlum.
Halla, móðir Þorgils, var dóttir Gests Oddleifssonar.
Þorgils bjó í Hǫrðadal á þeim bœ, er í Tungu heitir.
Þorgils var mikill maðr ok vænn ok inn mesti ofláti; engi var hann kallaðr jafnaðarmaðr.
Opt var heldr fátt með þeim Snorra goða; þótti Snorra Þorgils hlutgjarn ok áburðarmikill.
Þorgils gaf sér mart til ørenda út í sveitina; hann kom jafnan til Helgafells (171) ok bauð sik til umsýslu með Guðrúnu.
Hon tók á því vel at eins ok lítit af ǫllu.
Þorgils bauð heim Þorleiki, syni hennar, ok var hann lǫngum í Tungu ok nam lǫg at Þorgísli, því at hann var inn lǫgkœnsti maðr.
There was a certain man by the name of Thorgils, known as Hölluson (the son of Halla). He was known by his mother’s name because she outlived his father; his father’s name had been Snorri and he was a son of Alf of the Dales.
There was a certain man by the name of Thorgils, known as Hölluson (the son of Halla). He was known by his mother’s name because she outlived his father; his father’s name had been Snorri and he was a son of Alf of the Dales.
Halla, Thorgils’s mother, was a daughter of Gest Oddleifson.
Halla, Thorgils’s mother, was a daughter of Gest Oddleifson.
Thorgils was living in Hördadal, on a farmstead called Tunga.
Thorgils was living in Hördadal, on a farmstead called Tunga.
Thorgils was a large man, handsome and showy and full of swagger. He had not a reputation for fair dealing.
Thorgils was a large man, handsome and showy and full of swagger. He had not a reputation for fair dealing.
Much of the time Snorri and he would have little to do with each other. Snorri thought him meddlesome and blustering.
Much of the time Snorri and he would have little to do with each other. Snorri thought him meddlesome and blustering.
Thorgils found many occasions for getting out into the farther countryside, and he often came to Helgafell and offered to help Gudrun manage her affairs.
Thorgils found many occasions for getting out into the farther countryside, and he often came to Helgafell and offered to help Gudrun manage her affairs.
She took it all kindly and paid little attention to it all.
She took it all kindly and paid little attention to it all.
Thorgils invited her son Thorleik home with him, and Thorleik stayed at Tunga for a long time and was taught Law by Thorgils, for he was learned in the Law.
Thorgils invited her son Thorleik home with him, and Thorleik stayed at Tunga for a long time and was taught Law by Thorgils, for he was learned in the Law.
Í þenna tíma var í fǫrum Þorkell Eyjólfsson; hann var frægr maðr ok kynstórr, ok var hann mikill vinr Snorra goða.
Hann var ok jafnan með Þorsteini Kuggasyni, frænda sínum, þá er hann var út hér.
Ok eitt sinn, er Þorkell átti skip uppi standanda í Vaðli á Barðastrǫnd, þá varð atburðr sá í Borgarfirði, at sonr Eiðs ór Ási var veginn af sonum Helgu frá Kroppi.
Hét sá Grímr, er vegit hafði, en bróðir hans Njáll; hann drukknaði í Hvítá litlu síðar.
En Grímr varð sekr skógarmaðr um vígit, ok lá hann úti á fjǫllum, er hann var í sekðinni; hann var mikill maðr ok sterkr.
Eiðr var þá mjǫk gamlaðr, er þetta var tíðenda; varð af því at þessu gǫrr engi reki.
Mjǫk lágu menn á hálsi Þorkatli Eyjólfssyni, er hann rak eigi þessa réttar.
Um várit eptir, þá er Þorkell hafði búit skip sitt, ferr hann suðr um Breiðafjǫrð ok fær sér þar hest ok ríðr einn saman ok léttir eigi ferðinni, fyrr en hann kemr í Ás til Eiðs, frænda síns.
Eiðr tók við honum fegin (172) samliga.
Þorkell segir honum sitt ørendi, at hann vill leita til fundar við Grím, skógarmann hans; spyrr þá Eið, ef hann vissi nǫkkut til, hvar bœli hans mundi vera.
At this time Thorkel Eyolfson was in the overseas trade. He was a well-known man and of good birth, and he was a great friend of Snorri Godi.
At this time Thorkel Eyolfson was in the overseas trade. He was a well-known man and of good birth, and he was a great friend of Snorri Godi.
He commonly stayed with his kinsman Thorstein Kuggason whenever he was in this country.
He commonly stayed with his kinsman Thorstein Kuggason whenever he was in this country.
And at one time when Thorkel Eyolfson was in Iceland and had a ship of his laid up at the Vadil on the beach of Bárdastrand it so happened that a son of Eid of the Ridge was killed, in (196) the Borgarfjord country, by the sons of Helga of Kropp.
And at one time when Thorkel Eyolfson was in Iceland and had a ship of his laid up at the Vadil on the beach of Bárdastrand it so happened that a son of Eid of the Ridge was killed, in (196) the Borgarfjord country, by the sons of Helga of Kropp.
The one who had killed him was named Grim, and his brother was Njáll. Njáll was drowned in the Hvita (White River) shortly after,
The one who had killed him was named Grim, and his brother was Njáll. Njáll was drowned in the Hvita (White River) shortly after,
and Grim was made an outlaw, in the first degree, on account of the manslaughter; and he hid out in the hills and moors while he was under outlawry. He was a big man and a stout one.
and Grim was made an outlaw, in the first degree, on account of the manslaughter; and he hid out in the hills and moors while he was under outlawry. He was a big man and a stout one.
Eid was getting quite old at the time these things occurred. For this reason this thing was not followed up.
Eid was getting quite old at the time these things occurred. For this reason this thing was not followed up.
There was a lot of talk about Thorkel Eyolfson for his not having pushed this thing to a reckoning.
There was a lot of talk about Thorkel Eyolfson for his not having pushed this thing to a reckoning.
The next following spring, when Thorkel had got his ship ready to sail, he set out for the South across Breidafjord, got him a horse and rode off by himself, and made no stop until he got to Ás (the Ridge) to his kinsman Eid.
The next following spring, when Thorkel had got his ship ready to sail, he set out for the South across Breidafjord, got him a horse and rode off by himself, and made no stop until he got to Ás (the Ridge) to his kinsman Eid.
Eid welcomed him very cordially.
Eid welcomed him very cordially.
Thorkel told him what his errand was, that he was going to look for his outlaw Grim; and he asked Eid if he could tell him anything about where his hiding-place might be.
Thorkel told him what his errand was, that he was going to look for his outlaw Grim; and he asked Eid if he could tell him anything about where his hiding-place might be.
Standa þeir nú upp báðir ok ganga heim til skálans.
Þorkell sér, at Grím mœðir blódrás; tekr þá Skǫfnungs-stein ok ríðr ok bindr við hǫnd Gríms, ok tók þegar allan sviða ok þrota ór sárinu.
(174) Þeir váru þar um nóttina.
Um morgininn býsk Þorkell í brott ok spyrr, ef Grímr vili fara með honum.
Hann kvezk þat at vísu vilja.
Þorkell snýr þegar vestr ok kemr ekki á fund Eiðs; léttir ekki, fyrr en hann kemr í Sælingsdalstungu.
Snorri goði fagnar honum með mikilli blíðu.
Þorkell sagði honum, at ferð sjá hafði illa tekizk.
Snorri kvað hafa vel orðit, - “lízk mér giptusamliga á Grím; vil ek, at þú leysir hann vel af hendi.
Væri þat nú mitt ráð, vinr, at þú létir af ferðum ok fengir þér staðfestu ok ráðakost ok gerisk hǫfðingi, sem þú átt kyn til.”
So they both of them got up and went back to the cabin.
So they both of them got up and went back to the cabin.
Thorkel saw that Grim was failing for loss of blood, and he then got out the Skǫfnung stone and rubbed the cut with it and bound up Grim’s arm, and at once it took all the smart and swelling out of the wound.
Thorkel saw that Grim was failing for loss of blood, and he then got out the Skǫfnung stone and rubbed the cut with it and bound up Grim’s arm, and at once it took all the smart and swelling out of the wound.
They stayed there overnight.
They stayed there overnight.
In the morning Thorkel (199) got ready to leave and asked if Grim would go with him.
In the morning Thorkel (199) got ready to leave and asked if Grim would go with him.
Thorkel thereupon turned into the west, and did not go back to Eid. He made no stay until he came to Tunga in Sælingsdal.
Thorkel thereupon turned into the west, and did not go back to Eid. He made no stay until he came to Tunga in Sælingsdal.
Snorri Godi made him welcome very kindly.
Snorri Godi made him welcome very kindly.
Thorkel told him that his affair had turned out badly.
Thorkel told him that his affair had turned out badly.
But Snorri said it was quite all right. “It strikes me that good luck will go with Grim. And I wish,” said he, “that you will deal handsomely with him.
But Snorri said it was quite all right. “It strikes me that good luck will go with Grim. And I wish,” said he, “that you will deal handsomely with him.
Also, my advice to you would be,” said Snorri, “to quit your trading and settle down and get married and make a chieftain of yourself, such as your birth fits you for.”
Also, my advice to you would be,” said Snorri, “to quit your trading and settle down and get married and make a chieftain of yourself, such as your birth fits you for.”
Gudrún Ósvífrsdóttir fór heiman þat sumar at tvímánuði ok inn í Dali; hon reið í Þykkvaskóg.
Þorleikr var þá ýmisst í Þykkvaskógi með þeim Ármóðssonum, Halldóri ok Ǫrnólfi, stundum var hann í Tungu með Þorgísli.
Sǫmu nótt sendi Guðrún mann Snorra goða, at hon vill finna hann þegar um daginn eptir.
Snorri brá skjótt við ok reið þegar við annan mann, þar til at hann kom til Haukadalsár.
Hamarr stendr fyrir norðan ána, er Hǫfði heitir; þat er í Lœkjarskógs landi; í þeim stað hafði Guðrún á kveðit, at þau Snorri skyldu finnask.
Þau kómu þar mjǫk jafnsnimma.
Fylgði ok einn maðr Guðrúnu; var þat Bolli Bollason; hann var þá tólf vetra gamall,
en fullkominn var hann at afli ok hyggju, svá at þeir váru margir, er eigi biðu meira þroska, þó at alrosknir væri; hann bar þá ok Fótbít.
Þau Snorri ok Guðrún tóku þegar tal, en Bolli ok fǫrunautr Snorra sátu á hamrinum ok hugðu at mannaferðum um heraðit.
Ok er þau Snorri ok Guðrún hǫfðu spurzk tíðenda, þá frétti Snorri at ørendum, hvat þá hefði nýliga við borit, er hon sendi svá skyndiliga orð.
Gudrun Osvifsdaughter went on a visit into the Dale country that summer, in the Twimonth. She rode in to Thykkvaskog.
Gudrun Osvifsdaughter went on a visit into the Dale country that summer, in the Twimonth. She rode in to Thykkvaskog.
At that time Thorleik was in Thykkvaskog off and on, and with the two Armodsons, Haldor and Örnolf, and sometimes he was with Thorgils at Tunga.
At that time Thorleik was in Thykkvaskog off and on, and with the two Armodsons, Haldor and Örnolf, and sometimes he was with Thorgils at Tunga.
That same night Gudrun sent a man to Snorri Godi to say that she wished to see him next day.
That same night Gudrun sent a man to Snorri Godi to say that she wished to see him next day.
Snorri set out at once and rode on his way with one other man till he reached the Haukadalsá.
Snorri set out at once and rode on his way with one other man till he reached the Haukadalsá.
There is a cliff standing on the north side of the river which is called Hofdi; it is on land belonging to Lækjarskog. It was here that Gudrun had sent word that Snorri was to meet her,
There is a cliff standing on the north side of the river which is called Hofdi; it is on land belonging to Lækjarskog. It was here that Gudrun had sent word that Snorri was to meet her,
and they reached the place at much the same time.
and they reached the place at much the same time.
There was also one person in company with Gudrun. This was Bolli Bollason. He was then twelve years old.42
There was also one person in company with Gudrun. This was Bolli Bollason. He was then twelve years old.42
But he was a man both in body and mind; so much so that there were many men who never reached a fuller growth and vigor when full-grown. And he was then carrying Fotbit.
But he was a man both in body and mind; so much so that there were many men who never reached a fuller growth and vigor when full-grown. And he was then carrying Fotbit.
Snorri and Gudrun then took up their talk, while Bolli and Snorri’s man sat down on the cliff and watched the (202) coming and going o£ people about the neighborhood.
Snorri and Gudrun then took up their talk, while Bolli and Snorri’s man sat down on the cliff and watched the (202) coming and going o£ people about the neighborhood.
And when Snorri and Gudrun had exchanged the commonplace news of the day, then Snorri asked about her business; what new thing bad come up just then, that she had sent for him in such a hurry.
And when Snorri and Gudrun had exchanged the commonplace news of the day, then Snorri asked about her business; what new thing bad come up just then, that she had sent for him in such a hurry.
Þorgils býsk nú heiman, ok ríða þeir upp eptir Hǫrðadal tíu saman.
Þar var Þorgils Hǫlluson flokksstjóri.
Þar váru í ferð synir Bolla, Bolli ok Þorleikr; Þórðr kǫttr var inn fjórði, bróðir þeira; fimmti Þorsteinn svarti, sétti Lambi, sjaundi ok átti Halldórr ok Ǫrnólfr, níundi Sveinn, tíundi Húnbogi; þeir váru synir Álfs ór Dǫlum.
Þessir váru allir vígligir.
Þeir ríða leið sína upp til Sópandaskarðs ok yfir Langavatnsdal, ok svá yfir Borgarfjǫrð þveran.
Þeir riðu at Eyjarvaði yfir Norðrá, en at Bakkavaði yfir Hvítá, skammt frá Bœ ofan;
riðu þeir Reykjardal ok svá yfir hálsinn til Skorradals ok svá upp eptir skóginum í nánd bœnum at Vatnshorni; stíga þar af hestum sínum; var þá mjǫk kveldit á liðit.
Bœrinn at Vatnshorni stendr skammt frá vatninu fyrir sunnan ána.
Þorgils mælti þá við fǫrunauta sína, at þeir myndi þar vera um nóttina, - “ok mun ek fara heim til bœjarins á njósn at forvitnask, hvárt Helgi sé heima.
Mér er sagt, at Helgi hafi heldr fámennt optast, en sé allra manna varastr um sik ok hvíli í rammligri lokrekkju.”
Thorgils now made ready, and they rode away up country by way of Hördadal, ten of them.
Thorgils now made ready, and they rode away up country by way of Hördadal, ten of them.
There was Thorgils Hölluson, leader of the band;
There was Thorgils Hölluson, leader of the band;
there were the sons of Bolli, Bolli and Thorleik, and with them was their brother Thord Tomcat, as the fourth man; fifth Thorstein the Black; sixth Lambi, seventh and eighth Haldor and Örnolf; ninth Sveinn and tenth Hunbogi, these were the sons of AI£ of the Dales.
there were the sons of Bolli, Bolli and Thorleik, and with them was their brother Thord Tomcat, as the fourth man; fifth Thorstein the Black; sixth Lambi, seventh and eighth Haldor and Örnolf; ninth Sveinn and tenth Hunbogi, these were the sons of AI£ of the Dales.
These were all able-bodied fighting men.
These were all able-bodied fighting men.
They took their way up the valley to the pass of Sopandaskard and across Langavatzdal and so right across the Borgarfjord country.
They took their way up the valley to the pass of Sopandaskard and across Langavatzdal and so right across the Borgarfjord country.
They rode over the Norda river at the Eyarvad ford and over the Hvita at Bakkavad, a little way above the farmstead of that name.
They rode over the Norda river at the Eyarvad ford and over the Hvita at Bakkavad, a little way above the farmstead of that name.
They then rode on along the Reykjardal, and so over the divide into Skorradal and so up through the woods until they were near the farm at Vatzhorn. Here they dismounted. It was then well along in the evening.
They then rode on along the Reykjardal, and so over the divide into Skorradal and so up through the woods until they were near the farm at Vatzhorn. Here they dismounted. It was then well along in the evening.
The farm at Vatzhorn lies a little way back from the water, south of the river.
The farm at Vatzhorn lies a little way back from the water, south of the river.
Thorgils then told his men that they would stop there overnight, “and I will go scouting to the farmyard and find out if Helgi is at home.
Thorgils then told his men that they would stop there overnight, “and I will go scouting to the farmyard and find out if Helgi is at home.
I am told that Helgi has few men with him for the most part, but that he is quite uncommonly careful of himself and that he sleeps in a stout-built closet-bed.”
I am told that Helgi has few men with him for the most part, but that he is quite uncommonly careful of himself and that he sleeps in a stout-built closet-bed.”
Hann kvezk Hrappr heita ok vera breiðfirzkr at móðurkyni, - “ok þar hefi ek upp vaxit;
hefi ek nafn Víga-Hrapps ok þat með nafni, at ek em engi dœldarmaðr, þó at ek sjá lítill vexti;
en ek em sunnlenzkr at fǫðurkyni; hefi ek nú dvalizk þar nǫkkura vetr;
ok allvel hefir þetta til borit, Þorgils, er ek hefi þik hér ratat, því at ek ætlaða þó þinn fund at sœkja, þó at mér yrði um þat nǫkkuru torsóttara;
en vandkvæði eru mér á hendi; ek hefi orðit missáttr við húsbónda minn;
hafða ek af honum viðfarar ekki góðar, en ek hefi þat af nafni, at ek vil ekki sitja mǫnnum slíkar hneisur, ok veitta ek honum tilræði; en þó get ek, at annathvárt hafi tekit lítt eða ekki;
en litla stund var ek þar til raunar síðan, því at ek þóttumk hirðr, þegar ek kom á bak hesti þessum, er ek tók frá bónda.”
He said his name was Hrapp and that he was of Breidafjord kin by his mother’s side, “and that is where I grew up, too.
He said his name was Hrapp and that he was of Breidafjord kin by his mother’s side, “and that is where I grew up, too.
My name comes from Viga-Hrapp (Hrapp the Killer), and this goes with the name that (218) I am no easy man to deal with even if I am under-size.
My name comes from Viga-Hrapp (Hrapp the Killer), and this goes with the name that (218) I am no easy man to deal with even if I am under-size.
On my father’s side I am from the South, and I have been staying there some years past.
On my father’s side I am from the South, and I have been staying there some years past.
And it has turned out very handily, Thorgils, that I have come on you here, as I was on my way to see you anyway, even if it had not come so easy for me.
And it has turned out very handily, Thorgils, that I have come on you here, as I was on my way to see you anyway, even if it had not come so easy for me.
But I have trouble on my hands. I have had a falling-out with my master.
But I have trouble on my hands. I have had a falling-out with my master.
I had taken some hard usage from him, and it does not go with my name to put up with insults from any man, and I struck him. Yet I do not believe I hurt him much if any.
I had taken some hard usage from him, and it does not go with my name to put up with insults from any man, and I struck him. Yet I do not believe I hurt him much if any.
But I did not stop there long to find out, because I considered that I would be safer so soon as I got on this horse, which I took from him.”
But I did not stop there long to find out, because I considered that I would be safer so soon as I got on this horse, which I took from him.”
Selit var gǫrt um einn ás, ok lá hann á gaflhlǫðum, ok stóðu út af ásendarnir, ok var einart þak á húsinu ok ekki gróit.
Þá mælti Þorgils, at menn skyldu ganga at ásendunum ok treysta svá fast, at brotnaði eða ella gengi af inn raptarnir, en sumir skyldu geyma duranna, ef þeir leitaði út.
Fimm váru þeir Helgi inni í selinu: Harðbeinn, sonr hans, var þar, - hann var tólf vetra gamall, - ok smalamaðr hans ok tveir menn aðrir, er þat sumar hǫfðu komit til hans ok váru sekir; hét annarr Þorgils, en annarr Eyjólfr.
Þorsteinn svarti stóð fyrir selsdurunum ok Sveinn, sonr Dala-Álfs; en þeir aðrir fǫrunautar rifu af ræfrit af selinu, ok hǫfðu þeir þar skipt liði til;
tók annan ásenda Húnbogi inn sterki ok þeir Ármóðssynir, en þeir Þorgils ok Lambi annan ásenda ok þeir synir Guðrúnar; treysta þeir nú fast á ásinn, ok brotnaði hann í sundr í miðju.
Ok í þessi svipan lagði Harðbeinn út atgeiri ór selinu, þar sem hurðin var brotin; lagit kom í stálhúfu Þorsteins svarta, svá at í enninu nam staðar; var þat mjǫk mikill áverki.
Þá mælti Þorsteinn þat, er satt var, at þar váru menn fyrir.
Því næst hljóp Helgi út um dyrrnar svá djarfliga, at þeir hrukku fyrir, er næstir váru.
Þorgils var þá nær staddr ok hjó eptir honum með sverði, ok kom á ǫxlina, ok varð þat mikill áverki.
The cabin roof was laid on a single ridge-pole which rested on the gable walls in such a way that the ends of it stuck out, and the roof was thatched with a single layer of sods which had not yet taken root.
The cabin roof was laid on a single ridge-pole which rested on the gable walls in such a way that the ends of it stuck out, and the roof was thatched with a single layer of sods which had not yet taken root.
Thorgils had his men take a hold of the ends of the ridgepole and pull on it until it either broke or let go of the rafters. He set others to guard the doors, in case they should try to get out.
Thorgils had his men take a hold of the ends of the ridgepole and pull on it until it either broke or let go of the rafters. He set others to guard the doors, in case they should try to get out.
There were five of them in the cabin, counting Helgi; his son Hardbein was there, he was then twelve years old, together with the herdsboy; and there were two other men who had come to Helgi that summer and who were outlaws, the one named Thorgils and the other Eyolf.
There were five of them in the cabin, counting Helgi; his son Hardbein was there, he was then twelve years old, together with the herdsboy; and there were two other men who had come to Helgi that summer and who were outlaws, the one named Thorgils and the other Eyolf.
Black Thorstein was before the cabin door together with Sveinn, the son of Alf of the Dales, while the rest of them were pulling the roof off the cabin. They had divided their force for the work.
Black Thorstein was before the cabin door together with Sveinn, the son of Alf of the Dales, while the rest of them were pulling the roof off the cabin. They had divided their force for the work.
At one end of the ridge-pole were Hunbogi the Strong and the Armodsons, while Thorgils and Lambi and Gudrun’s sons took the other end. They heaved on the beam till it broke in two.
At one end of the ridge-pole were Hunbogi the Strong and the Armodsons, while Thorgils and Lambi and Gudrun’s sons took the other end. They heaved on the beam till it broke in two.
And just then Hardbein thrust out with a halberd, where the door had been broken. The stroke hit Black Thorstein’s steel cap, so that the edge cut into his forehead, and gave him a very ugly wound.
And just then Hardbein thrust out with a halberd, where the door had been broken. The stroke hit Black Thorstein’s steel cap, so that the edge cut into his forehead, and gave him a very ugly wound.
And Thorstein said it was quite true that there were men inside.
And Thorstein said it was quite true that there were men inside.
Right after this Helgi made a rush out of the door so swiftly that the nearest ones of those outside fell back.
Right after this Helgi made a rush out of the door so swiftly that the nearest ones of those outside fell back.
Thorgils was close in and he slashed at him with his sword and struck him on the shoulder. It made a deep cut.
Thorgils was close in and he slashed at him with his sword and struck him on the shoulder. It made a deep cut.
Eptir þessi tíðendi ríða þeir Þorgils í brott ok yfir hálsinn til Reykjardals ok lýstu þar vígum þessum;
riðu síðan ina sǫmu leið vestr, sem þeir hǫfðu vestan riðit; léttu eigi sinni ferð, fyrr en þeir kómu í Hǫrðadal.
Þeir segja nú þessi tíðendi, er gǫrzk hǫfðu í fǫr þeira; varð þessi ferð in frægsta, ok þótti þetta mikit stórvirki, er slíkr kappi hafði fallit, sem Helgi var.
Þorgils þakkar mǫnnum vel ferðina, ok slíkt it sama mæltu þeir brœðr, Bollasynir.
Skiljask þeir menn nú, er í ferð hǫfðu verit með Þorgísli.
Lambi ríðr vestr til Laxárdals ok kemr fyrst í Hjarðarholt ok sagði þeim frændum sínum inniliga frá þessum tíðendum, er orðit hǫfðu í Skorradal.
Þeir létu illa yfir hans ferð ok tǫlðu mjǫk á hendr honum; kváðu hann (194) meir hafa sagzk í ætt Þorbjarnar skrjúps en Mýrkjartans Írakonungs.
Lambi reiddisk mjǫk við orðtak þeira ok kvað þá kunna sik ógǫrla, er þeir veittu honum átǫlur, - “því at ek hefi dregit yðr undan dauða,” segir hann.
When these things were done Thorgils and his men rode away over the rise into Reykjardal and there made declaration of these manslaughters.
When these things were done Thorgils and his men rode away over the rise into Reykjardal and there made declaration of these manslaughters.
Then they rode back into the West by the same road over which they had ridden east, and made no stay until they came into Hördadal.
Then they rode back into the West by the same road over which they had ridden east, and made no stay until they came into Hördadal.
There they told the news of what had been done while they were gone. This raid of theirs got to be quite famous, and it was counted great work to have brought down such a fighting man as Helgi.
There they told the news of what had been done while they were gone. This raid of theirs got to be quite famous, and it was counted great work to have brought down such a fighting man as Helgi.
Thorgils thanked the men who had been with him and so did also the Bollasons.
Thorgils thanked the men who had been with him and so did also the Bollasons.
So therewith the men parted company who had been with Thorgils on this raid.
So therewith the men parted company who had been with Thorgils on this raid.
Lambi rode off to the west into Laxárdal and went first of all to Hjardarholt and gave his kinsmen there a detailed account of all these things that had taken place in Skorradal.
Lambi rode off to the west into Laxárdal and went first of all to Hjardarholt and gave his kinsmen there a detailed account of all these things that had taken place in Skorradal.
They blamed him for his part in it and made much of his misbehavior; told him that he had showed up as a descendant of Thorbjorn Screwhair rather than of Myrkjartan, King of the Irish.
They blamed him for his part in it and made much of his misbehavior; told him that he had showed up as a descendant of Thorbjorn Screwhair rather than of Myrkjartan, King of the Irish.
Lambi got very angry at what they were saying and told them they were forgetting their manners if they blamed him; “for the fact is that I have snatched you out of sudden death,” said he.
Lambi got very angry at what they were saying and told them they were forgetting their manners if they blamed him; “for the fact is that I have snatched you out of sudden death,” said he.
Vetrinn hafði verit kulðasamr, ok váru íslǫg mikil, ok hafði langt lagt út Breiðafjǫrð, svá at eigi mátti á skipum komask af Barðastrǫnd.
Lík Gests stóð uppi tvær nætr í Haga; en þá sǫmu nótt gerði á veðr svá hvasst, at ísinn rak allan frá landi; en um daginn eptir var veðr gott ok lygnt.
Þórðr tók skip ok lagði á lík Gests, ok fara þeir suðr um daginn yfir Breiðafjǫrð ok koma um kveldit til Helgafells.
Var þar vel tekit við Þórði, ok er hann þar um nóttina.
Um morgininn var niðr sett lík Gests, ok hvíldu þeir Ósvífr í einni grǫf.
Kom nú fram spásagan Gests, at skemmra var í milli þeira en þá, er annarr (197) var á Barðastrǫnd, en annarr í Sælingsdal.
Þórðr inn lági ferr heim, þegar hann er búinn; ina næstu nótt eptir gerði á œðiveðr; rak þá ísinn allan at landi; helt því lengi um vetrinn, at ekki mátti þar á skipum fara.
Þóttu at þessu mikil merki, at svá gaf til at fara með lík Gests, at hvárki var fœrt áðr né síðan.
The winter had been rather cold. The ice lay thick and unbroken and stretched far out on the waters of Breidafjord; so much so that no boats could run out of Bárdastrand.
The winter had been rather cold. The ice lay thick and unbroken and stretched far out on the waters of Breidafjord; so much so that no boats could run out of Bárdastrand.
Gest’s body was laid out for two days and nights at Hagi. But during that night the wind came up so stiff as to drive all the ice off shore, but on the following day the weather was fine and calm.
Gest’s body was laid out for two days and nights at Hagi. But during that night the wind came up so stiff as to drive all the ice off shore, but on the following day the weather was fine and calm.
Thord got out a boat and put Gest’s body aboard, and he ran out to the south across Breidafjord that day and came in to Helgafeil by nightfall.
Thord got out a boat and put Gest’s body aboard, and he ran out to the south across Breidafjord that day and came in to Helgafeil by nightfall.
There Thord was made welcome, and he stayed there overnight.
There Thord was made welcome, and he stayed there overnight.
Next morning Gest’s body was buried, and Osvif and he came to rest in the same grave.
Next morning Gest’s body was buried, and Osvif and he came to rest in the same grave.
So Gest’s prophecy came true; that they came to be nearer neighbors than they had been when one of them was living on Bárdastrand and the other at Tunga in Sælingsdal.
So Gest’s prophecy came true; that they came to be nearer neighbors than they had been when one of them was living on Bárdastrand and the other at Tunga in Sælingsdal.
Thord the Low went (227) home as soon as he was ready; but in the night next after there came up a wild storm. The ice then drove back in a1I along the shore. So that for a long time that winter no boats could pass.
Thord the Low went (227) home as soon as he was ready; but in the night next after there came up a wild storm. The ice then drove back in a1I along the shore. So that for a long time that winter no boats could pass.
It seemed a notable marvel that the passage should have been opened for Gest’s body, when the waters were quite impassable before and after.
It seemed a notable marvel that the passage should have been opened for Gest’s body, when the waters were quite impassable before and after.
Þetta þótti it mesta undr.
Inn næsta dag eptir gekk Þorgils vestr yfir ána ok skyldi gjalda fé sonum Helga;
hann sezk niðr á hølknit fyrir ofan búðirnar; með honum var Halldórr, fóstbróðir hans, ok fleiri váru þeir saman.
Þeir synir Helga kómu til mótsins.
Þorgils tekr nú at telja silfrit.
Auðgísl Þórarinsson gekk (199) þar hjá, ok í því er Þorgils nefndi tíu, þá hjó Auðgísl til hans, ok allir þóttusk heyra, at hǫfuðit nefndi ellifu, er af fauk hálsinum.
Auðgísl hljóp til Vatnsfirðingabúðar, en Haildórr hljóp þegar eptir honum ok hjó hann í búðardurunum til bana.
Þessi tíðendi kómu til búðar Snorra goða, at Þorgils Hǫlluson var veginn.
Snorri segir: “Eigi mun þér skilizk hafa; Þorgils Hǫlluson mun vegit hafa.”
This was considered a great marvel.
This was considered a great marvel.
The next day after this took place Thorgils went across (230) the river to the west bank to make his payment to Helgi’s sons.
The next day after this took place Thorgils went across (230) the river to the west bank to make his payment to Helgi’s sons.
He sat down on the slope just above the row of booths. With him was his foster-brother Haldor, and there were several others along with them.
He sat down on the slope just above the row of booths. With him was his foster-brother Haldor, and there were several others along with them.
Helgi’s sons came out to meet them.
Helgi’s sons came out to meet them.
Thorgils then started to count out the silver.
Thorgils then started to count out the silver.
Audgisl Thorarinson was walking about near by, and just as Thorgils was counting eleven Audgisl struck with his axe, and it seemed to them all that the head called “eleven” as it tumbled off his neck.
Audgisl Thorarinson was walking about near by, and just as Thorgils was counting eleven Audgisl struck with his axe, and it seemed to them all that the head called “eleven” as it tumbled off his neck.
Audgisl ran to the Vatzfirding booths, but Haldor ran close after him and struck him dead in the doorway of the booth.
Audgisl ran to the Vatzfirding booths, but Haldor ran close after him and struck him dead in the doorway of the booth.
The tidings of this got to Snorri in his booth, that Thorgils Hölluson had been killed;
The tidings of this got to Snorri in his booth, that Thorgils Hölluson had been killed;
but he replied, “You must be mistaken. It must be that Thorgils has killed someone.”
but he replied, “You must be mistaken. It must be that Thorgils has killed someone.”
Snorri var at skipi nǫkkurar nætr; síðan tóku þeir skip teinært, er þar flaut við kaupskipit, ok bjuggusk til ferðar, hálfr þriði tøgr manna; þeir fóru til Helgafells.
Guðrún tók við Snorra ágæta vel; var þeim veittr allgóðr beini.
Ok er þeir hǫfðu verit þar eina nótt, þá kallar Snorri til tals við sik Guðrúnu ok mælti: “Svá er mál með vexti, at ek hefi ferð þessa veitt Þorkatli Eyjólfssyni, vin mínum;
er hann nú hér kominn, sem þú sér, en þat er ørendi hans hingat, at hefja bónorð við þik.
Er Þorkell gǫfugr maðr; er þér ok allt kunnigt um ætt hans ok athæfi; skortir hann ok eigi fé;
þykkir oss hann nú einn maðr líkastr til hǫfðingja vestr hingat, ef hann vill sik til þess hafa;
hefir Þorkell mikinn sóma, þá er hann er út hér, en miklu er hann meira virðr, þá er hann er í Nóregi með tignum mǫnnum.”
Snorri stayed on by the ship for several days. Then they took a ten-oared boat which lay beside the vessel and set out, twenty-five of them. They went to Helgafell.
Snorri stayed on by the ship for several days. Then they took a ten-oared boat which lay beside the vessel and set out, twenty-five of them. They went to Helgafell.
Gudrun made Snorri very welcome. They were served with the very best of everything.
Gudrun made Snorri very welcome. They were served with the very best of everything.
And when they had spent one night there Snorri called Gudrun aside for a talk with her and said, “This is the state of the case. I have come here in behalf of my friend, Thorkel Eyolfson.
And when they had spent one night there Snorri called Gudrun aside for a talk with her and said, “This is the state of the case. I have come here in behalf of my friend, Thorkel Eyolfson.
He is now here, as you see. And his errand here is to ask your hand in marriage.
He is now here, as you see. And his errand here is to ask your hand in marriage.
Thorkel is a man of good standing. You know also all there is to know of his birth and deeds. Also, he is not without means.
Thorkel is a man of good standing. You know also all there is to know of his birth and deeds. Also, he is not without means.
We all consider him the one man who is best fitted to become a chieftain in this west-country, if he will take it upon himself.
We all consider him the one man who is best fitted to become a chieftain in this west-country, if he will take it upon himself.
Thorkel is made much of when he is in this country, and yet he is rated much higher among the best people in Norway when he is there.”
Thorkel is made much of when he is in this country, and yet he is rated much higher among the best people in Norway when he is there.”
Verðr nú þat af ráðit, at brullaup skal vera at Helgafelli at sex vikum sumars.
Fara þeir Snorri ok Þorkell við þetta á brott; fór Snorri heim, en Þorkell til skips; er hann ýmisst um sumarit í Tungu eða við skip.
Líðr til boðsins.
Guðrún hefir mikinn viðrbúnað ok tilǫflun.
Snorri goði sótti þessa veizlu með Þorkatli, ok hǫfðu þeir nær sex tigu manna, ok var þat lið mjǫk valit, því at flestir allir menn váru í litklæðum.
Guðrún hafði nær hundrað fyrirboðsmanna.
Þeir brœðr, Bolli ok Þorleikr, gengu í mót þeim Snorra, ok með þeim fyrirboðsmenn; er Snorra allvel fagnat ok hans fǫruneyti.
Er nú tekit við hestum þeira ok klæðum; var þeim fylgt í stofu;
skipuðu þeir Þorkell ok Snorri bekk annan, þann er œðri var, en boðsmenn Guðrúnar inn óœðra bekk.
So it was arranged that the wedding was to take place at Helgafell six weeks before the end of summer.
So it was arranged that the wedding was to take place at Helgafell six weeks before the end of summer.
When this had been arranged Snorri and Thorkel took their leave and went their way. Snorri went home and Thorkel went back to his ship. He spent the summer back and forth between Tunga and the ship.
When this had been arranged Snorri and Thorkel took their leave and went their way. Snorri went home and Thorkel went back to his ship. He spent the summer back and forth between Tunga and the ship.
The time of the wedding is at hand.
The time of the wedding is at hand.
Gudrun makes many and large preparations.
Gudrun makes many and large preparations.
Snorri Godi came on to the wedding in company with Thorkel, and between them they had near sixty men; and it was a very select company, for nearly all the men were decked out in dyed clothing.
Snorri Godi came on to the wedding in company with Thorkel, and between them they had near sixty men; and it was a very select company, for nearly all the men were decked out in dyed clothing.
Gudrun had near one hundred (120) foreguests assembled to meet them.
Gudrun had near one hundred (120) foreguests assembled to meet them.
The two brothers, Bolli and Thorleik, rode out to meet Snorri’s company on the way, together with their fore-guests. Snorri and his company were very courteously welcomed.
The two brothers, Bolli and Thorleik, rode out to meet Snorri’s company on the way, together with their fore-guests. Snorri and his company were very courteously welcomed.
Their horses and wraps were taken in charge, and they were conducted into the house.
Their horses and wraps were taken in charge, and they were conducted into the house.
Thorkel and Snorri with their company occupied the nobler bench, and Gudrun’s fore-guests the lower one.
Thorkel and Snorri with their company occupied the nobler bench, and Gudrun’s fore-guests the lower one.
Ok við umtǫlur Snorra ok þat með, at hann sá, at hann mælti satt, þá sefaðisk Þorkell, en Gunnari var í brott fylgt um kveldit.
Veizla fór þar vel fram ok skǫruliga; ok er boði var lokit, búask menn í brott.
Þorkell gaf Snorra allfémiklar gjafar ok svá ollum virðingamonnum.
Snorri bauð heim Bolla Bollasyni ok bað hann vera með sér ǫllum þeim stundum, er honum þœtti þat betra; Bolli þiggr þat ok ríðr heim í Tungu.
Þorkell settisk nú at Helgafelli ok tekr þar við búsumsýslu; þat mátti brátt sjá, at honum var þat eigi verr hent en kaupferðir.
Hann lét þegar um haustit taka ofan skála, ok varð upp gǫrr at vetri, ok var hann mikill ok risuligr.
Ástir takask miklar með þeim Þorkatli ok Guðrúnu.
Líðr fram vetrinn.
Um várit eptir spyrr Guðrún, hvat hann vili sjá fyrir Gunnari Þiðrandabana.
Þorkell kvað hana mundu fyrir því ráða,
- “hefir þú tekit þat svá fast, at þér mun ekki at getask, nema hann sé sœmiliga af hondum leystr.”
And so, with Snorri’s entreaties, and also because he saw that what he was saying was the truth, Thorkel quieted down, and Gunnar was safely sent away that evening.
And so, with Snorri’s entreaties, and also because he saw that what he was saying was the truth, Thorkel quieted down, and Gunnar was safely sent away that evening.
After this the wedding feast went forward well and merrily. And when the festivities came to an end, then the folks got ready to leave.
After this the wedding feast went forward well and merrily. And when the festivities came to an end, then the folks got ready to leave.
Thorkel gave presents of very great value to Snorri, as well as to all of the best people.
Thorkel gave presents of very great value to Snorri, as well as to all of the best people.
Snorri invited Bolli home with him and asked him to make his home with him at any time when it might suit him. This Bolli accepted and rode home with him to Tunga.
Snorri invited Bolli home with him and asked him to make his home with him at any time when it might suit him. This Bolli accepted and rode home with him to Tunga.
Thorkel now took up his abode at Helgafell and took over the management of the estate; for he was no less capable in that work than in driving his trade overseas.
Thorkel now took up his abode at Helgafell and took over the management of the estate; for he was no less capable in that work than in driving his trade overseas.
He set about rebuilding the house that fall, and had it all done by the beginning of winter, and it was a large and sightly house.
He set about rebuilding the house that fall, and had it all done by the beginning of winter, and it was a large and sightly house.
A great affection set in between Thorkel and Gudrun.
A great affection set in between Thorkel and Gudrun.
In the spring Gudrun asked (236) him what he was willing to do for Gunnar Thidrandabani.
In the spring Gudrun asked (236) him what he was willing to do for Gunnar Thidrandabani.
Thorkel said that was for her to see to.
Thorkel said that was for her to see to.
“You have taken so strong a hand in that matter that nothing is likely to content you unless he is sent away in honorable fashion.”
“You have taken so strong a hand in that matter that nothing is likely to content you unless he is sent away in honorable fashion.”
Þorkell Eyjólfsson gerðisk hǫfðingi mikill; helt hann sér mjǫk til vinsælda ok virðingar.
Hann var maðr heraðríkr ok málamaðr mikill; þingdeilda hans er hér þó ekki getit.
Þorkell var ríkastr maðr í Breiðafirði, meðan hann lifði, þegar er Snorra leið.
Þorkell sat vel bœ sinn; hann lét gera ǫll hús at Helgafelli stór ok rammlig; hann markaði ok grundvǫll til kirkju ok lýsti því, at hann ætlaði sér at sœkja kirkjuviðinn.
Þau Þorkell ok Guðrún áttu son; sá er nefndr Gellir; hann var snimma inn efniligasti.
Bolli Bollason var ýmisst í Tungu eða at Helgafelli; var Snorra til hans allvel.
Þorleikr bróðir hans var at Helgafelli.
Váru þeir brœðr miklir menn ok inir knáligstu, ok hafði Bolli allt fyrir.
Vel var Þorkatli til stjúpbarna sinna.
Guðrún unni Bolla mest allra barna sinna.
Bolli var nú sextán vetra, en Þorleikr tuttugu.
Þá rœddi Þorleikr við Þorkel, stjúpfǫður sinn, ok móður sína, at hann vildi útan fara,
- “leiðisk mér at sitja heima sem konum; vilda ek, at mér væri fengin fararefni.”
Thorkel Eyolfson came to be a good deal of a chieftain. He took much thought of his friendships and his standing among men.
Thorkel Eyolfson came to be a good deal of a chieftain. He took much thought of his friendships and his standing among men.
He was one of the leading men of the countryside and notable for his conduct of causes at law; though nothing is to be told here of his litigations.
He was one of the leading men of the countryside and notable for his conduct of causes at law; though nothing is to be told here of his litigations.
Thorkel was the most powerful man in all the Breidafjord country in his lifetime, excepting Snorri.
Thorkel was the most powerful man in all the Breidafjord country in his lifetime, excepting Snorri.
Thorkel was a thrifty man in the management of his property. He built up all the housing at Helgafell in a large and substantial way. He also staked out the foundations for a church and made known that he planned to bring home churchtimber.
Thorkel was a thrifty man in the management of his property. He built up all the housing at Helgafell in a large and substantial way. He also staked out the foundations for a church and made known that he planned to bring home churchtimber.
Thorkel and Gudrun had a son who was named Gellir (Howler). He grew right soon to be a promising lad.
Thorkel and Gudrun had a son who was named Gellir (Howler). He grew right soon to be a promising lad.
Bolli Bollason stayed sometimes at Twnga, sometimes at Helgafell. Snorri used him right well.
Bolli Bollason stayed sometimes at Twnga, sometimes at Helgafell. Snorri used him right well.
Thorleik Bollason lived at Helgafell.
Thorleik Bollason lived at Helgafell.
The two brothers were large men, strong and hardy, and Bolli was in every way the better man.
The two brothers were large men, strong and hardy, and Bolli was in every way the better man.
Thorkel used his stepsons very well.
Thorkel used his stepsons very well.
Bolli was now sixteen years old and Thorleik twenty.
Bolli was now sixteen years old and Thorleik twenty.
Then Thorleik spoke to his mother and said that he would like to go abroad.
Then Thorleik spoke to his mother and said that he would like to go abroad.
“I am getting tired of sitting at home like a woman. I would like to be allowed a stock of goods for a trading voyage.”
“I am getting tired of sitting at home like a woman. I would like to be allowed a stock of goods for a trading voyage.”
Þetta mál kemr fyrir Þórdísi, en hon svarar á þá leið, at hon myndi þar um hlíta forsjá fǫður síns; kvazk fúsari at giptask Bolla í sinni sveit en ókunnum manni lengra í brott.
Ok er Snorri fann, at henni var ekki þetta í móti skapi, at ganga með (207) Bolla, þá er þetta at ráði gǫrt, ok fóru festar fram; skal Snorri hafa boð þat inni, ok skal vera at miðju sumri.
Við þetta ríða þeir Þorkell ok Bolli heim til Helgafells, ok er nú Bolli heima, þar til er at brullaupsstefnu kemr.
Búask þeir nú heiman Þorkell ok Bolli, ok þeir menn með þeim, er til þess váru ætlaðir; var þar fjǫlmenni mikit ok it skǫruligsta lið.
Ríða nú leið sína ok koma í Tungu; eru þar allgóðar viðtǫkur; var þar mikit fjǫlmenni ok veizla in virðuligsta.
Ok er veizluna þrytr, búask menn í brott.
Snorri gaf Þorkatli gjafar sœmiligar ok þeim Guðrúnu báðum, slíkt sama ǫðrum sínum vinum ok frændum; ríðr nú hverr heim til síns heimilis þeira manna, er þetta boð hafa sótt.
Bolli var í Tungu, ok tókusk brátt góðar ástir með þeim Þórdísi.
Snorri lagði ok mikla stund á at veita Bolla vel ok var til hans hvar betr en til sinna barna.
Bolli þekkðisk þat vel ok er þau missari í Tungu í góðu yfirlæti.
The question was put to Thordis, and she answered to this effect, that she would be guided by her father’s discretion; saying that she would rather be married to Bolli, who was their neighbor, than to an unknown person from farther away.
The question was put to Thordis, and she answered to this effect, that she would be guided by her father’s discretion; saying that she would rather be married to Bolli, who was their neighbor, than to an unknown person from farther away.
And when Snorri found that it was not distasteful to her to go with Bolli, then an agreement was come to and (240) pledges were exchanged. Snorri was to set up the wedding feast, and it was to come at midsummer.
And when Snorri found that it was not distasteful to her to go with Bolli, then an agreement was come to and (240) pledges were exchanged. Snorri was to set up the wedding feast, and it was to come at midsummer.
With this Thorkel and Bolli rode back home to Helgafell, and Bolli then stayed at home until the time set for the wedding.
With this Thorkel and Bolli rode back home to Helgafell, and Bolli then stayed at home until the time set for the wedding.
Thorkel and Bolli then set out from home, and those with them who were picked for it. It was a very large company and a very gallant array.
Thorkel and Bolli then set out from home, and those with them who were picked for it. It was a very large company and a very gallant array.
They rode on their way till they came to Tunga, and there their welcome was of the very best. It was a very large gathering, and the wedding feast was a magnificent one.
They rode on their way till they came to Tunga, and there their welcome was of the very best. It was a very large gathering, and the wedding feast was a magnificent one.
And when the festivities drew to a close the guests made ready to leave.
And when the festivities drew to a close the guests made ready to leave.
Snorri gave handsome presents to Thorkel and to Gudrun, both.
Snorri gave handsome presents to Thorkel and to Gudrun, both.
Bolli stayed in Tunga, and a fair love shortly grew up between Thordis and him.
Bolli stayed in Tunga, and a fair love shortly grew up between Thordis and him.
Snorri too took great pains to do well by Bolli, and used him even better than his own children.
Snorri too took great pains to do well by Bolli, and used him even better than his own children.
Bolli took to it kindly, and spent the year at Tunga well content.
Bolli took to it kindly, and spent the year at Tunga well content.
Þá sendir Snorri orð Halldóri, at þá var ráðin sættin; bað hann kjósa mann tíl gørðar móts við sik.
Halldórr kaus til gørðar fyrir sína hǫnd Steinþór Þorláksson af Eyri; sættarfundr skyldi vera at Drǫngum á Skógarstrǫnd, þá er fjórar vikur eru af sumri.
Þorleikr Bollason reið til Helgafells, ok var allt tíðendalaust um vetrinn.
Ok er leið at þeiri stundu, er á kveðit var um fundinn, þá kom Snorri goði með þeim Óláfssonum, ok váru (211) alls fimmtán saman; jafnmargir kómu þeir Steinþórr til mótsins.
Tóku þeir Snorri ok Steinþórr tal ok urðu ásáttir um mál þessi.
Eptir þat luku þeir fésekð; en eigi er á kveðit hér, hversu mikit þeir gerðu; frá því er sagt, at fé galzk vel, ok sættir váru vel haldnar.
Á Þórsnessþingi váru gjǫld af hendi innt.
Halldórr gaf Bolla sverð gott, en Steinþórr Óláfsson gaf Þorleiki skjǫld; var þat ok góðr gripr; ok var síðan slitit þinginu, ok þóttu hvárirtveggju hafa vaxit af þessum málum.
Then Snorri sent word to Haldor that the terms had been accepted, and asked him to select his man to take part with him in the award.
Then Snorri sent word to Haldor that the terms had been accepted, and asked him to select his man to take part with him in the award.
Haldor chose for the award in behalf of his side Steindor Thorlakson of Eyr. This peace-meeting was to take place at Drangar on the Skogarstrand at four weeks of summer.
Haldor chose for the award in behalf of his side Steindor Thorlakson of Eyr. This peace-meeting was to take place at Drangar on the Skogarstrand at four weeks of summer.
Thorleik Bollason rode back home to Helgafell, and all was quiet through the rest of the winter.
Thorleik Bollason rode back home to Helgafell, and all was quiet through the rest of the winter.
And when the time came round that had been fixed on for the meeting, then Snorri Godi came to the place with (244) the Olafsons, with a company of fifteen men altogether; and a like number came with Steindor to meet them.
And when the time came round that had been fixed on for the meeting, then Snorri Godi came to the place with (244) the Olafsons, with a company of fifteen men altogether; and a like number came with Steindor to meet them.
Snorri and Steindor then talked matters over and came to an agreement on the case.
Snorri and Steindor then talked matters over and came to an agreement on the case.
Then they made known their award, but it is not told how large their award was. But it is told that the payment was made punctually and that the compact was kept in good faith.
Then they made known their award, but it is not told how large their award was. But it is told that the payment was made punctually and that the compact was kept in good faith.
It was at the Thorsnes Thing that the payments were made.
It was at the Thorsnes Thing that the payments were made.
Haldor made Bolli a present of a good sword, and Steindor Olafson gave Thorleik a shield, and that, too, was an article of value. The Thing then came to a close, and both parties appeared to have gained by the settlement.
Haldor made Bolli a present of a good sword, and Steindor Olafson gave Thorleik a shield, and that, too, was an article of value. The Thing then came to a close, and both parties appeared to have gained by the settlement.
Þat sama sumar setr Þorkell fram skip sitt ok býr til Nóregs.
Gellir, sonr hans, var þá tólf vetra gamall; hann fór útan með feðr sínum.
Þorkell lýsir því, at hann ætlar at sœkja sér kirkjuvið, ok siglir þegar á haf, er hann var búinn.
Hann hafði hœgja útivist ok eigi allskamma; taka þeir Nóreg norðarla.
Þá sat Óláfr konungr í Þrándheimi.
Þorkell sótti þegar á fund Óláfs konungs ok með honum Gellir, sonr hans; þeir fengu þar góðar viðtǫkur.
Svá var Þorkell mikils metinn af konungi (216) þann vetr, at þat er alsagt, at konungr gaf honum eigi minna fé en tíu tigu marka brennds silfrs.
Konungr gaf Gelli at jólum skikkju, ok var þat in mesta gersemi ok ágretr gripr.
Þann vetr lét Óláfr konungr gera kirkju í bœnum af viði; var þat stofnat allmikit mustari ok vandat allt til.
Um várit var viðr sá til skips fluttr, er konungr gaf Þorkatli; var sá viðr bæði mikill ok góðr, því at Þorkell gekk nær.
Þat var einn morgin snimma, at konungr gekk út við fá menn; hann sá mann uppi á kirkju þeiri, er í smíð var þar í bœnum.
Hann undraðisk þetta mjǫk, því at morni var minnr fram komit en smiðar váru vanir upp at standa.
Konungr kenndi manninn; var þar Þorkell Eyjólfsson ok lagði mál við ǫll in stœrstu tré, bæði bita ok staflægjur ok uppstǫðutré.
That same summer Thorkel got out his ship and set sail for Norway.
That same summer Thorkel got out his ship and set sail for Norway.
His son Gellir was then twelve years old and he went with his father on the voyage.
His son Gellir was then twelve years old and he went with his father on the voyage.
Thorkel gave out that he was going after timber for a church and then sailed out to sea as soon as he was ready.
Thorkel gave out that he was going after timber for a church and then sailed out to sea as soon as he was ready.
They made the land in Norway, somewhat northerly.
They made the land in Norway, somewhat northerly.
King Olaf was then in Drontheim.
King Olaf was then in Drontheim.
Thorkel went directly to see the king, and his son Gellir with him. They were well received
Thorkel went directly to see the king, and his son Gellir with him. They were well received
and Thorkel was made so much of that winter by the king that it has been the common report that the king made him a gift of no less value than one-hudred marks (251) of pure silver.
and Thorkel was made so much of that winter by the king that it has been the common report that the king made him a gift of no less value than one-hudred marks (251) of pure silver.
The king gave a cloak to Gellir at Christmas, and it was a very fine garment and of great value.
The king gave a cloak to Gellir at Christmas, and it was a very fine garment and of great value.
King Olaf was building a church in the town that winter, of timber. It was designed to be a minster of large size, and everything about it was very choice indeed.
King Olaf was building a church in the town that winter, of timber. It was designed to be a minster of large size, and everything about it was very choice indeed.
In the spring the timber which the king had given to Thorkel was delivered at the ship. The timbers were both big and sound, for Thorkel kept a close watch of it.
In the spring the timber which the king had given to Thorkel was delivered at the ship. The timbers were both big and sound, for Thorkel kept a close watch of it.
It happened early one morning that the king was out and about with a few men following him. He caught sight of a man on top of the church which he was building,
It happened early one morning that the king was out and about with a few men following him. He caught sight of a man on top of the church which he was building,
and the king recognised the man, that it was Thorkel Eyolfson and that he was taking the measure of all the main timbers, sills and cross-beams and uprights.
and the king recognised the man, that it was Thorkel Eyolfson and that he was taking the measure of all the main timbers, sills and cross-beams and uprights.
Eptir þat skilja þeir rœðuna; snýr konungr í brott, ok fannsk þat á, at honum þótti verr, er Þorkell vildi at engu hafa, þat er hann lagði til.
Lét konungr þat þó ekki við veðri komask; skilðusk þeir Þorkell með miklum kærleik; stígr Þorkell á skipfjǫl ok lætr í haf.
Þeim byrjaði vel, ok váru ekki lengi úti.
Þorkell kom skipi sínu í Hrútafjǫrð.
Hann reið brátt frá skipi ok heim til Helgafells.
Allir menn urðu honum fegnir; hafði Þorkell fengit mikinn sóma í þessi ferð.
Hann lét upp setja skip sitt ok um búa ok fekk kirkjuviðinn til varðveizlu, þar er vel var kominn, því at eigi varð norðan fluttr um haustit, því at hann átti starfsamt jafnan.
Þorkell sitr nú heima um vetrinn í búi sínu.
Hann hafði jóladrykkju at Helgafelli, ok var þar fjǫlmenni mikit, ok með ǫllu hafði hann mikla rausn þann vetr, en Guðrún latti þess ekki ok sagði til þess fé nýtt vera, at menn miklaði sik af, ok þat mundi ok á framreitum, er Guðrúnu skyldi til fá um alla stórmennsku.
Þorkell miðlaði marga góða gripi þann vetr vinum sínum, er hann hafði út haft.
Nothing more was said on either side. The king turned away, and it was remarked that he was not pleased to have (252) Thorkel pay no attention to what he asked of him.
Nothing more was said on either side. The king turned away, and it was remarked that he was not pleased to have (252) Thorkel pay no attention to what he asked of him.
Yet the king let none of this appear openly, and he took leave of Thorkel in the most friendly fashion. Thorkel went aboard ship and put to sea.
Yet the king let none of this appear openly, and he took leave of Thorkel in the most friendly fashion. Thorkel went aboard ship and put to sea.
They had favorable winds and were not out long.
They had favorable winds and were not out long.
Thorkel came ashore in the Hrutafjord.
Thorkel came ashore in the Hrutafjord.
He set out at once and rode down from the ship and home to Helgafell.
He set out at once and rode down from the ship and home to Helgafell.
There they all were glad to see him. Thorkel gained renown from this voyage.
There they all were glad to see him. Thorkel gained renown from this voyage.
He had the ship laid up and cared for and put the church-timber in safe-keeping.
He had the ship laid up and cared for and put the church-timber in safe-keeping.
So now Thorkel was sitting at home through the winter on his own place with a large retinue about him,
So now Thorkel was sitting at home through the winter on his own place with a large retinue about him,
and in every way he spent that winter in great state. And Gudrun had nothing to say against it, but told him that that is what riches are good for, for men to make the most of themselves. And then too, whatever Gudrun had use for to make a grand display was also forthcoming.
and in every way he spent that winter in great state. And Gudrun had nothing to say against it, but told him that that is what riches are good for, for men to make the most of themselves. And then too, whatever Gudrun had use for to make a grand display was also forthcoming.
Thorkel sold off many articles of great value that winter to his friends, things which he had brought from abroad.
Thorkel sold off many articles of great value that winter to his friends, things which he had brought from abroad.
Þenna vetr eptir jól bjósk Þorkell heiman norðr til Hrútafjarðar at flytja norðan viðu sína.
Ríðr hann fyrst inn í Dali ok þaðan í Ljárskóga til Þorsteins, frænda síns, ok aflar sér manna ok hrossa.
Hann ferr síðan norðr til Hrútafjarðar ok dvelsk þar um hríð ok hefir ætlan á um ferðina;
safnar at sér hestum þar um fjǫrð, því at hann vildi eigi fleiri farar at gera, ef svá mætti takask.
Varð þetta ekki skjótt.
Þorkell var í starfi þessu fram á langafǫstu; hann kemr þessu starfi til vegar;
hann dró viðinn norðan meir en á tuttugu hestum ok lætr liggja viðinn á Ljáeyri; síðan ætlaði hann at flytja á skipi út til Helgafells.
Þorsteinn átti ferju mikla, ok ætlaði Þorkell þat skip at hafa, þá er hann fœri heimleiðis.
Þorkell var í Ljárskógum um fǫstuna, því at ástúðigt var með þeim frændum.
Þorsteinn rœddi við Þorkel, at þat myndi vel hent, at þeir fœri í Hjarðarholt;
- “vil ek fala land at Halldóri, því at hann hefir lítit lausafé, síðan hann galt þeim Bollasonum í fǫðurbœtr; en þat land er svá, at ek vilda helzt eiga.”
After Christmas this winter Thorkel set out from home up north into the Hrutafjord country to bring his timber home.
After Christmas this winter Thorkel set out from home up north into the Hrutafjord country to bring his timber home.
First he rode up country into the Dales and from there to Ljarskog to his cousin Thorstein and engaged men and horses.
First he rode up country into the Dales and from there to Ljarskog to his cousin Thorstein and engaged men and horses.
Then he went on north into Hrutafjord and stayed there for some time to arrange about the freighting.
Then he went on north into Hrutafjord and stayed there for some time to arrange about the freighting.
He gathered in horses from the countryside about the fjord; for Thorkel did not want to make a second trip, if he could so arrange it.
He gathered in horses from the countryside about the fjord; for Thorkel did not want to make a second trip, if he could so arrange it.
All this was not to be done in a hurry.
All this was not to be done in a hurry.
Thorkel was busy with this work far into Lent. He got the work under way.
Thorkel was busy with this work far into Lent. He got the work under way.
He freighted the timber south on more than twenty horses, and left it lying on the Ljar beach. He expected presently to move it out to Helgafell by boat.
He freighted the timber south on more than twenty horses, and left it lying on the Ljar beach. He expected presently to move it out to Helgafell by boat.
Thorstein owned a large lugger, and Thorkel was expecting to use this boat when he came to go on home.
Thorstein owned a large lugger, and Thorkel was expecting to use this boat when he came to go on home.
Thorkel stopped over at Ljarskog through Lent, for there was a close friendship between the two cousins.
Thorkel stopped over at Ljarskog through Lent, for there was a close friendship between the two cousins.
Thorstein spoke to Thorkel one day and said that this would be a convenient time for them to run in to Hjardarholt.
Thorstein spoke to Thorkel one day and said that this would be a convenient time for them to run in to Hjardarholt.
“I want to see Haldor about buying land of him. He is short of livestock since he paid composition to the Bollasons for their father. And his land is just what (254) would like to own.”
“I want to see Haldor about buying land of him. He is short of livestock since he paid composition to the Bollasons for their father. And his land is just what (254) would like to own.”
Þorkell bað hann ráða; fara þeir heiman ok váru saman vel tuttugu menn.
Þeir koma í Hjarðarholt; tók Halldórr vel við þeim ok var inn málreifasti.
Fátt var manna heima, því at Halldórr hafði sent menn norðr í Steingrímsfjǫrð; þar hafði komit hvalr, er hann átti í.
Beinir inn sterki var heima; hann einn lifði þá þeira manna, er verit hǫfðu með Óláfi, fǫður hans.
Halldórr hafði mælt til Beinis, þegar er hann sá reið þeira Þorsteins:
(219) “Gǫrla sé ek ørendi þeira frænda; þeir munu fala land mitt at mér, ok ef svá er, þá munu þeir heimta mik á tal.
Þess get ek, at á sína hǫnd mér setisk hvárr þeira, ok ef þeir bjóða mér nǫkkurn ómaka, þá vertu eigi seinni at ráða til Þorsteins en ek til Þorkels; hefir þú lengi verit trúr oss frændum.
Ek hefi ok sent á ina næstu bœi eptir mǫnnum; vilda ek, at þat hœfðisk mjǫk á, at lið þat kœmi ok vér slitim talinu.”
Thorkel told him it was for him to say. So they set out from home with a company of some twenty men.
Thorkel told him it was for him to say. So they set out from home with a company of some twenty men.
They came into Hjardarholt. Haldor received them courteously and was very free and talkative.
They came into Hjardarholt. Haldor received them courteously and was very free and talkative.
There were few men about the place, because Haldor had sent his men up north into Steingrimsfjord. A whale had come ashore there in which he was part owner.
There were few men about the place, because Haldor had sent his men up north into Steingrimsfjord. A whale had come ashore there in which he was part owner.
Beinir the Strong was at home. He was the only one still living of the men who had been with Olaf, Haldor’s father.
Beinir the Strong was at home. He was the only one still living of the men who had been with Olaf, Haldor’s father.
Haldor had spoken to Beinir when he saw Thorstein’s company come riding in.
Haldor had spoken to Beinir when he saw Thorstein’s company come riding in.
“I know just what the two cousins are after. They will want to buy my land of me. And if that is the case then they will call me to one side to talk it over.
“I know just what the two cousins are after. They will want to buy my land of me. And if that is the case then they will call me to one side to talk it over.
It is my guess that they will sit down one on each side of me. And if they offer me any kind of violence, then it is for you to be no slower about going for Thorstein than I will be with Thorkel. You have long stood faithfully by me and my folks.
It is my guess that they will sit down one on each side of me. And if they offer me any kind of violence, then it is for you to be no slower about going for Thorstein than I will be with Thorkel. You have long stood faithfully by me and my folks.
I have also sent for men to come in from our neighbors, and I should like to have it fall out so that help should come in about the time we have done talking.”
I have also sent for men to come in from our neighbors, and I should like to have it fall out so that help should come in about the time we have done talking.”
Nú er at segja frá ferð þeira Þorkels.
Þeir sigla um daginn út eptir Breiðafirði ok váru tíu á skipi;
veðrit tók at hvessa mjǫk, ok gerði inn mesta storm, áðr létti.
Þeir sóttu knáliga ferðina, ok váru þeir menn inir rǫskustu.
Þorkell hafði með sér sverðit Skǫfnung, ok var þat í stokki.
Þeir Þorkell sigla, þar til er þeir kómu at Bjarnarey; - sá menn ferðina af hvárutveggja landinu; - en er þeir váru þar komnir, þá laust hviðu í seglit, ok hvelfði skipinu.
Þorkell drukknaði þar ok allir þeir menn, er með honum váru.
Viðuna rak víða um eyjar; hornstafina rak í þá ey, er Stafey heitir síðan.
Skǫfnungr var festr við innviðuna í ferjunni; hann hittisk við Skǫfnungsey.
Now there is to be told of how Thorkel and his company fared.
Now there is to be told of how Thorkel and his company fared.
They sailed out along Breidafjord that day, ten of them all told on the boat.
They sailed out along Breidafjord that day, ten of them all told on the boat.
The wind presently stiffened a good deal, and it grew into a furious gale before it let up.
The wind presently stiffened a good deal, and it grew into a furious gale before it let up.
They held bravely to their course, and they were stout and skilful men.
They held bravely to their course, and they were stout and skilful men.
Thorkel had brought the sword (258) Skǫfnung with him and it was in the boat’s locker.
Thorkel had brought the sword (258) Skǫfnung with him and it was in the boat’s locker.
They went on until they got as far as Bjarnarey. Folks saw the boat from both shores. But when they had got that far, then a squall struck their sail and overturned the boat.
They went on until they got as far as Bjarnarey. Folks saw the boat from both shores. But when they had got that far, then a squall struck their sail and overturned the boat.
Thorkel was drowned there together with all the men who were with him.
Thorkel was drowned there together with all the men who were with him.
The timber drifted all about the islands, far and wide. The corner-posts were washed ashore on the island that has since then been called Stafey (Post Island).
The timber drifted all about the islands, far and wide. The corner-posts were washed ashore on the island that has since then been called Stafey (Post Island).
Skǫfnung was stuck fast in the frame timbers of the lugger; he was found on Skǫfnungsey.
Skǫfnung was stuck fast in the frame timbers of the lugger; he was found on Skǫfnungsey.
Gekk Guðrún til kirkju, svá sem (223) hon hafði áðr ætlat, ok er hon kom til kirkjunnar, þá þóttisk hon sjá, at þeir Þorkell váru heim komnir ok stóðu úti fyrir kirkju.
Hon sá, at sjár rann ór klæðum þeira.
Guðrún mælti ekki við þá ok gekk inn í kirkju ok dvalðisk þar slíka hríð, sem henni sýndisk;
gengr hon síðan inn til stofu, því at hon ætlaði, at þeir Þorkell myndi þangat gengnir; ok er hon kom í stofuna, þá var þar ekki manna.
Þá brá Guðrúnu mjǫk í brún um atburð þenna allan jafnsaman.
Fǫstudag inn langa sendi Guðrún menn sína at forvitnask um ferðir þeira Þorkels, suma inn á strǫnd, en suma um eyjar; var þá rekinn víða kominn um eyjarnar ok svá til hvárrartveggju strandar.
Þváttdaginn fyrir páska spurðusk tíðendin ok þóttu vera mikil, því at Þorkell hafði verit mikill hǫfðingi.
Þorkell hafði átta vetr ins fimmta tigar, þá er hann drukknaði, en þat var fjórum vetrum fyrr en inn heilagi Óláfr konungr fell.
Guðrúnu þótti mikit fráfall Þorkels, en bar þó skǫruliga af sér.
Fátt eina náðisk af kirkjuviðinum.
Gellir var þá fjórtán vetra gamall; hann tók þá til búsumsýslu með móður sinni ok tók við mannaforráði.
Var þat brátt auðsætt á honum, at hann var vel til fallinn til fyrirmanns.
Guðrún gerðisk trúkona mikil.
Hon nam fyrst kvenna saltara á Íslandi.
Hon var lǫngum um nætr at kirkju á bœnum sínum.
Herdís Bolladóttir fór jafnan með henni um nætrnar.
Guðrún unni mikit Herdísi.
Þat er sagt einhverja nótt, at meyna Herdísi dreymði, at kona kœmi at henni; sú var í vefjarskikkju ok faldin hǫfuðdúki; ekki sýndisk henni konan sviplig.
Gudrun went on into the church as she had set out to do, and when she got to the church door she seemed to see Thorkel and his men, that they had got home and were standing outside the church.
Gudrun went on into the church as she had set out to do, and when she got to the church door she seemed to see Thorkel and his men, that they had got home and were standing outside the church.
She saw that the sea water was running from their clothes.
She saw that the sea water was running from their clothes.
Gudrun said nothing to them and went on into the church and stayed there as long as she had occasion.
Gudrun said nothing to them and went on into the church and stayed there as long as she had occasion.
She afterward went back into the living-room, as she expected that Thorkel and his men would be there. But when she got into the house there was no one there.
She afterward went back into the living-room, as she expected that Thorkel and his men would be there. But when she got into the house there was no one there.
And then Gudrun grew very thoughtful about these things coming on all at once.
And then Gudrun grew very thoughtful about these things coming on all at once.
On Good Friday Gudrun sent her men out to find out about what Thorkel and his men were doing, some of them in along the beach and some out among the islands. The wreckage was by that time drifted far and wide among the islands as well as on the beaches along both shores.
On Good Friday Gudrun sent her men out to find out about what Thorkel and his men were doing, some of them in along the beach and some out among the islands. The wreckage was by that time drifted far and wide among the islands as well as on the beaches along both shores.
On the Saturday before Easter the tidings were known about the countryside, and they seemed very grave, for Thorkel had been a (259) great chieftain.
On the Saturday before Easter the tidings were known about the countryside, and they seemed very grave, for Thorkel had been a (259) great chieftain.
Thorkel was forty-eight years old at the time he was drowned, and this (A.D. 1026) was four years before the death of King Olaf the Saint.
Thorkel was forty-eight years old at the time he was drowned, and this (A.D. 1026) was four years before the death of King Olaf the Saint.
Gudrun took the loss of Thorkel much to heart, and yet she bore up stoutly under it.
Gudrun took the loss of Thorkel much to heart, and yet she bore up stoutly under it.
Very little of the church-timber was recovered.
Very little of the church-timber was recovered.
Gellir was then fourteen years old. With his mother’s help he took over the care of the estate and also took up the chieftaincy;
Gellir was then fourteen years old. With his mother’s help he took over the care of the estate and also took up the chieftaincy;
and it soon appeared that he was well fitted for a leader of men.
and it soon appeared that he was well fitted for a leader of men.
In time Gudrun came to be a great religious devotee.
In time Gudrun came to be a great religious devotee.
She was the first woman in Iceland who learned the Psalter.
She was the first woman in Iceland who learned the Psalter.
She spent long hours nightly in church at her prayers.
She spent long hours nightly in church at her prayers.
Herdis Bolladaughter was often with her through the night.
Herdis Bolladaughter was often with her through the night.
Gudrun was very fond of Herdis.
Gudrun was very fond of Herdis.
It is related that on a certain night the girl Herdis dreamed that there came a woman to her. The woman was wearing a cloth cloak. She did not like the woman’s looks.
It is related that on a certain night the girl Herdis dreamed that there came a woman to her. The woman was wearing a cloth cloak. She did not like the woman’s looks.
Þá er fjórir vetr váru liðnir frá drukknun Þorkels Eyjólfssonar, þá kom skip í Eyjafjǫrð; þat átti Bolli Bollason; váru þar á flestir norrœnir hásetar.
Bolli hafði mikit fé út ok marga dýrgripi, er hǫfðingjar hǫfðu gefit honum.
Bolli var svá mikill skartsmaðr, er (225) hann kom út ór fǫr þessi, at hann vildi engi klæði bera nema skarlatsklæði ok pellsklæði, ok ǫll vápn hafði hann gullbúin.
Hann var kallaðr Bolli inn prúði.
Hann lýsti því fyrir skipverjum sínum, at hann ætlaði vestr til heraða sinna, ok fekk skip sitt ok varnað í hendr skipverjum sínum.
Bolli ríðr frá skipi við tólfta mann; þeir váru allir í skarlatsklæðum fylgðarmenn Bolla ok riðu í gyldum sǫðlum; allir váru þeir listuligir menn, en þó bar Bolli af.
Hann var í pellsklæðum, er Garðskonungr hafði gefit honum; hann hafði ýzta skarlatskápu rauða; hann var gyrðr Fótbít, ok váru at honum hjǫlt gullbúin ok meðalkaflinn gulli vafiðr; hann hafði gyldan hjálm á hǫfði ok rauðan skjǫld á hlið, ok á dreginn riddari með gulli; hann hafði glaðel í hendi, sem títt er í útlǫndum, ok hvar sem þeir tóku gistingar, þá gáðu konur engis annars en horfa á Bolla ok skart hans ok þeira félaga.
Með slíkri kurteisi ríðr Bolli vestr í sveitir, allt þar til er hann kom til Helgafells með liði sínu; varð Guðrún allfegin Bolla, syni sínum.
Dvalðisk Bolli þar eigi lengi, áðr hann reið inn í Sælingsdalstungu ok hittir Snorra, mág sinn, ok Þórdísi, konu sína; varð þar mikill fagnafundr.
Snorri bauð Bolla til sín með svá marga menn, sem hann vildi; Bolli þekkisk þat, ok er hann með Snorra um vetrinn ok þeir menn, sem norðan riðu með honum.
Bolli varð frægr af ferð þessi.
Snorri lagði eigi minni stund nú á at veita Bolla með allri blíðu en fyrr, er hann var með honum.
When four years were gone by since Thorkel Eyolfson was drowned, there came a ship into Eyjafjord. This was owned by Bolli Bollason. The crew was made up mostly of Norwegians.
When four years were gone by since Thorkel Eyolfson was drowned, there came a ship into Eyjafjord. This was owned by Bolli Bollason. The crew was made up mostly of Norwegians.
Bolli brought out with him a large stock and many articles of great value which the great ones of the best people had given him.
Bolli brought out with him a large stock and many articles of great value which the great ones of the best people had given him.
Bolli was so choice of his appearance at the time when he so returned from his travels that he would wear no garment except only of satin and brocade, and all his weapons were done in gold.
Bolli was so choice of his appearance at the time when he so returned from his travels that he would wear no garment except only of satin and brocade, and all his weapons were done in gold.
He was nicknamed Bolli the Magnificent.
He was nicknamed Bolli the Magnificent.
He told his shipmates that he was going out west to his own countryside, and left his vessel in the care of his shipmates.
He told his shipmates that he was going out west to his own countryside, and left his vessel in the care of his shipmates.
Bolli rode away from the ship with a company of twelve men all told. They were all dressed in satin, these followers of Bolli, and rode on goldmounted saddles. They were all fine-looking men, and yet Bolli surpassed them all.
Bolli rode away from the ship with a company of twelve men all told. They were all dressed in satin, these followers of Bolli, and rode on goldmounted saddles. They were all fine-looking men, and yet Bolli surpassed them all.
He was then wearing clothes of brocade, which the king of Byzantium had given him. Over all he wore a red satin cloak. He was girt about with Fotbit, whose hilts were gold-mounted and whose grip was wound with gold wire. He had a gilded helmet on his head and a red shield on his flank, on which a knight was drawn in gold. In his hand he carried an anlace, as was the fashion in foreign parts. And wherever they took lodgings along the road the women-folk found time for nothing else but to look (261) at Bolli and the display of him and his company.
He was then wearing clothes of brocade, which the king of Byzantium had given him. Over all he wore a red satin cloak. He was girt about with Fotbit, whose hilts were gold-mounted and whose grip was wound with gold wire. He had a gilded helmet on his head and a red shield on his flank, on which a knight was drawn in gold. In his hand he carried an anlace, as was the fashion in foreign parts. And wherever they took lodgings along the road the women-folk found time for nothing else but to look (261) at Bolli and the display of him and his company.
In such courtly fashion did Bolli ride out into the west country till he came in time to Helgafell with all his retinue. Gudrun was overjoyed with the coming of her son Bolli.
In such courtly fashion did Bolli ride out into the west country till he came in time to Helgafell with all his retinue. Gudrun was overjoyed with the coming of her son Bolli.
Bolli made no long stay there before he rode up country to Sælingsdals-Tunga, to his father-in-law Snorri and Thordis his wife. It was a very festive meeting.
Bolli made no long stay there before he rode up country to Sælingsdals-Tunga, to his father-in-law Snorri and Thordis his wife. It was a very festive meeting.
Snorri invited Bolli to come and stay, with as many men as he liked. Bolli accepted, and he made his home with Snorri over winter, together with the men who had ridden down with him out of the North.
Snorri invited Bolli to come and stay, with as many men as he liked. Bolli accepted, and he made his home with Snorri over winter, together with the men who had ridden down with him out of the North.
Bolli was made famous by these adventures of his.
Bolli was made famous by these adventures of his.
Snorri was at no less pains to serve Bolli with every kindness now than when he stayed with him before.
Snorri was at no less pains to serve Bolli with every kindness now than when he stayed with him before.
Síðan andaðisk Snorri.
Hann hafði þá sjau vetr ins sjaunda tigar.
Þat var einum vetri eptir fali Óláfs konungs ins helga; svá sagði Ari prestr inn fróði.
Snorri var í Tungu grafinn.
Bolli ok Þórdís tóku við búi í Tungu, sem Snorri hafði mælt; létu synir Snorra sér þat vel líka; varð Bolli mikilhæfr maðr ok vinsæll.
Herdís Bolladóttir óx upp at Helgafelli, ok var hon allra kvenna vænst;
hennar bað Ormr, sonr Hermundar Illugasonar, ok var hon gefin honum;
þeira sonr var Koðrán, er átti Guðrúnu Sigmundardóttur; sonr Koðráns var Hermundr, er átti (227) Úlfheiði, dóttur Runólfs Ketilssonar býskups; þeira synir váru Ketill, er ábóti var at Helgafelli, ok Hreinn ok Koðrán ok Styrmir; dóttir þeira var Þórvǫr, er átti Skeggi Brandsson, ok er þaðan komit Skógverjakyn.
He was then sixty-seven years old.
He was then sixty-seven years old.
This was one year after the death of King Olaf the Saint. So says Ari Frodi (The Scholar) the Priest.
This was one year after the death of King Olaf the Saint. So says Ari Frodi (The Scholar) the Priest.
Snorri was buried at Tunga.
Snorri was buried at Tunga.
Bolli and Thordis came into the property at Tunga, as Snorri had spoken for, and Snorri’s sons were content to allow it. Bolli grew to be a man of much consequence and with many friends.
Bolli and Thordis came into the property at Tunga, as Snorri had spoken for, and Snorri’s sons were content to allow it. Bolli grew to be a man of much consequence and with many friends.
Herdis Bolladaughter grew up at Helgafell and was a woman of great beauty.
Herdis Bolladaughter grew up at Helgafell and was a woman of great beauty.
Örn, son of Hermund Illugason, wooed her and she was married to him.
Örn, son of Hermund Illugason, wooed her and she was married to him.
Their son was Kodran, who married Gudrun Sigmundsdaughter; Kodran’s son was Hermund, who married Ulfheid, daughter of Bishop Runolf Ketilson; their sons were Ketil, (263) who became abbot of Helgafell, and Rein and Kodran and Styrmir; their daughter was Thorvor, married to Skeggi Brandson, and from them comes the Skogverja kindred.
Their son was Kodran, who married Gudrun Sigmundsdaughter; Kodran’s son was Hermund, who married Ulfheid, daughter of Bishop Runolf Ketilson; their sons were Ketil, (263) who became abbot of Helgafell, and Rein and Kodran and Styrmir; their daughter was Thorvor, married to Skeggi Brandson, and from them comes the Skogverja kindred.
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