Page:The Heimskringla; or, Chronicle of the Kings of Norway Vol 2.djvu/123

 KINGS OF NORWAY. 115 And thine who may come to the east saga vn In Rognvald's hall shall find a feast — In Rognvald's house shall find a home — At Rognvald's court be still welcome. When first I came the people's mind Incensed by Eric's son 1 find; And he refused thy wish to meet, Alleging treachery and deceit. But I explained how it was here, For earl and king, advantage clear With thee to hold the strictest peace, And make all force and foray cease. The earl is wise, and understands The need of peace for both the lands ; And he entreats thee not to break The present peace for vengeance' sake ! " It was early in winter that Sigvat the scald, with two companions, left Sarpsburg, and proceeded east- ward over the moors to Gotland ; but they often met with poor reception on their journey. One evening he came to three peasants, who drove them all out of their houses; and Sigvat the scald composed his song " The Travellers to the East " on this expedi- tion. At last Sigvat arrives at Earl Rognvald's, and was long entertained kindly and well in his house. The earl heard by letters sent by Ingigerd, the king's daughter, that embassadors from King Jarisleif were come from Russia to King Olaf of Sweden to ask his daughter Ingigerd in marriage, and that King Olaf had given them hopes he would agree to it. About the same time King Olaf 's daughter Astrid came to Earl Rognvald's court, and a great feast was made for her. Sigvat soon became acquainted by conver- sation with the king's daughter, and she knew him by name and family; for Ottar the scald, Sigvat's sister's son, had long had intimate acquaintance with King Olaf the Swedish king. Among other things talked of, Earl Rognvald asked Sigvat if the king of Norway would not marry the king's daughter Astrid. " If he will do that," said he, " I think we need not ask the Swedish king for his consent." Astrid, the i 2