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/361

 Bid him to parley, and inquire 'Gainst whom he teems with sullen ire.

SKIRNER:

Ill words I fear my lot will prove, If I your son attempt to move; If I bid parley, and inquire Why teems his soul with savage ire.

Reluctantly Skirner then proceeded to Frey, and thus addressed him:

SKIRNER:

Prince of the gods, and first in fight! Speak, honored Frey, and tell me right: Why spends my lord the tedious day In his lone hall, to grief a prey?

FREY:

Oh, how shall I, fond youth, disclose To you my bosom's heavy woes? The ruddy god shines every day, But dull to me his cheerful ray.

SKIRNER:

Your sorrows deem not I so great That you the tale should not relate: Together sported we in youth, And well may trust each other's truth.

FREY:

In Gymer's court I saw her move, The maid who fires my breast with love; Her snow-white arms and bosom fair Shone lovely, kindling sea and air. Dear is she to my wishes, more Than e'er was maid to youth before; But gods and elves, I wot it well, Forbid that we together dwell.