But most startled of all at these tidings was the foster-mother of Melkorka, who was then bed-ridden, both from heavy sickness and old age; yet she walked with no staff even to support her, to meet Olaf.  The king said to Olaf, “Here is come Melkorka’s foster-mother, and she will wish to hear all the tidings you can tell about Melkorka’s life.”  Olaf took her with open arms, and set the old woman on his knee, and said her foster-daughter was well settled and in a good position in Iceland.  Then Olaf put in her hands the knife and the belt, and the old woman recognised the gifts, and wept for joy, and said it was easy to see that Melkorka’s son was one of high mettle, and no wonder, seeing what stock he comes of.  The old woman was strong and well, and in good spirits all that winter.  The king was seldom at rest, for at that time the lands in the west were at all times raided by war-bands.  The king drove from his land that winter both Vikings and raiders. [Sidenote:  Olaf’s life in Ireland] Olaf was with his suite in the king’s ship, and those who came against them thought his was indeed a grim company to deal with.  The king talked over with Olaf and his followers all matters needing counsel, for Olaf proved himself to the king both wise and eager-minded in all deeds of prowess.  But towards the latter end of the winter the king summoned a Thing, and great numbers came.  The king stood up and spoke.  He began his speech thus:  “You all know that last autumn there came hither a man who is the son of my daughter, and high-born also on his father’s side; and it seems to me that Olaf is a man of such prowess and courage that here such men are not to be found.  Now I offer him my kingdom after my day is done, for Olaf is much more suitable for a ruler than my own sons.”  Olaf thanked him for this offer with many graceful and fair words, and said he would not run the risk as to how his sons might behave when Myrkjartan was no more; said it was better to gain swift honour than lasting shame; and added that he wished to go to Norway when ships could safely journey from land to land, and that his mother would have little delight in life if he did not return to her.  The king bade Olaf do as he thought best.  Then the Thing was broken up. [Sidenote:  Olaf comes to Norway again] When Olaf’s ship was ready, the king saw him off on board; and gave him a spear chased with gold, and a gold-bedecked sword, and much money besides.  Olaf begged that he might take Melkorka’s foster-mother with him; but the king said there was no necessity for that, so she did not go.  Then Olaf got on board his ship, and he and the king parted with the greatest friendship.  Then Olaf sailed out to sea.  They had a good voyage, and made land in Norway; and Olaf’s journey became very famous.  They set up their ship; and Olaf got horses for himself, and went, together with his followers, to find King Harald.

CHAP.  XXII