Page:Norse mythology or, the religion of our forefathers, containing all the myths of the Eddas, systematized and interpreted with an introduction, vocabulary and index.djvu/291

 A spell pronounced, An answer demanded, Until compelled she rose And with death-like voice she said:

THE VALA:

What man is this, To me unknown, Who has for me increased An irksome course? I have with snow been decked, By rain beaten, And with dew moistened,— Long have I been dead.

VEGTAM:

Vegtam is my name, I am Valtam's son. Tell thou me of Hel; From earth I call on thee. For whom are these benches Strewed o'er with rings,— Those costly couches O'erlaid with gold?

THE VALA:

Here stands mead For Balder brewed, Over the bright drink A shield is laid; But the race of gods Is in despair. By compulsion I have spoken, Now will I be silent.

VEGTAM:

Be not silent, vala! I will question thee Until all I know: I will yet know Who will Balder's Slayer be.