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/364

 Eleven apples here I hold, Gerd, for you, of purest gold; Let this fair gift your bosom move To grant young Frey your precious love.

GERD:

Eleven apples take not I From man as price of chastity: While life remains, no tongue shall tell That Frey and I together dwell.

SKIRNER:

Gerd, for you this wondrous ring, Burnt on young Balder's pile, I bring, On each ninth night shall other eight Drop from it. all of equal weight.

GERD:

I take not, I, that wondrous ring, Though it from Balder's pile you bring: Gold lack not I, in Gymer's bower; Enough for me my father's dower.

SKIRNER:

Behold this bright and slender wand, Unsheathed and glittering in my hand! Refuse not, maiden! lest your head Be severed by the trenchant blade.

GERD:

Gerd will ne'er by force be led To grace a conqueror's hateful bed; But this I trow, with main and might Gymer shall meet your boast in fight.

SKIRNER:

Behold this bright and slender wand, Unsheathed and glittering in my hand! Slain by its edge your sire shall lie, That giant old is doomed to die.