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 days and the weeks had passed by busily in the Lady Aastrid’s home, until the months had rounded into a year since the defeat of King Olaf. Maidoch found full work for her skilful hands, and the constant occupation proved the best antidote to the depression that followed Thorgills’ departure.

The political changes in Norway did not affect either Aastrid or Maidoch. Earl Sigvalde had been a wealthy thane, and the generosity of King Olaf had provided well for Thorgills. The needy ones of Nidaros had often had their distress relieved by the charity of these two noble Christian women. Aastrid had resolved to devote her wealth to the service of the poor, and accordingly she had established a convent at Nidaros, for the training of poor girls. Maidoch aided her friend in her work, and sojourned with her.

“Thou wilt let me stay by thee, dear lady,” she pleaded, when Aastrid moved into the convent. “I have promised my dear Lord Thorgills to abide with thee until he shall return.”