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/357

 Njord had the consolation, when he was sent as hostage to the gods, that he begat a son whom no one hates, but who is the best among the gods. Thus the Elder Edda, in Æger's banquet to the gods, where Loke also was present:

NJORD:

It is my consolation— For I was from a far-off place Sent as a hostage to the gods— That I begat that son Whom no one hates, And who is regarded Chief among the gods.

To which makes reply:

Hold thy tongue, Njord! Subdue thy arrogance; I will conceal it no longer That with thy sister A son thou didst beget Scarcely worse than thyself.

But defends Frey:

Frey is the best Of all the chiefs Among the gods. He causes not tears To maids or mothers: His desire is to loosen the fetters Of those enchained.

LOKE:

Hold thy tongue, Tyr! Never thou couldst Use both hands, Since thy right one,