time he threw himself in my way, and began speaking evil of a friend of mine, a man with whom I have sworn blood-brotherhood.  I forgot where we stood, and what was the law, and I drew my sword and leaped upon him; and it is likely the daylight would have shone through him, but that he had friends hidden who ran out and seized me and dragged me before the law-man.  Seeing me with drawn sword, he knew without question that I had broken the law; so, without caring what I urged, he passed sentence upon me, banishing me from my district for three seasons.  My father and my kinsmen are away on Viking voyages; I cannot take service with King Olaf, and I will not serve under a lesser man.  It was not easy to know where to go, until I thought of you, Leif Ericsson.  It was you who taught me that ’He who is cold in defence of a friend, will be cold so long as Hel rules.’  There is no fear in my mind that you will send me away.”

He finished as composedly as he had begun, and stood waiting.  But not for long.  Leif rose from his seat, sweeping the circle with a keen glance.  “It is likely,” he said grimly, “that someone has told you that an unfavorable answer might be expected, because I feared to lose King Olaf’s favor.  You have done well to trust my friendship, foster-son.”  He stretched out his hand, a rare gleam of pleasure lighting his deep-set eyes.  “You have behaved well to your friend, Sigurd Haraldsson; there is the greatest excuse for you in this affair.  I bid you welcome, and I offer you a share in everything I own.  If it is your choice, you shall go back to Brattahlid with me; and my home shall be your home for whatever time you wish.”

Sigurd thanked him with warmth and dignity.  Then a twinkle of mischief shone at the comers of his handsome mouth; after the fashion of the French court, he bent over the brawny outstretched hand and kissed it.

A murmur of mingled amazement and amusement went up from the group.  Leif himself gave a short laugh as he jerked his hand away.

“This is the first time that ever my fist was mistaken for a maiden’s lips.  It is to be hoped that this is not the most useful accomplishment you have brought from France.  Now go and try your fine manners on Helga,—­if you do not fear for your ears.  I wish to speak with this thrall.”

But Helga had not now spirit enough to avenge the salute.  She drooped over the fire, staring absently into the embers; the heat toasting her delicate face rose-red, the light touching her hair into a wonderful golden web.  She looked up at Sigurd with a faint frown; then dropped her chin back into her hands and forgot him.

Alwin came and placed himself before the chief’s seat, where the young Viking had stood.  He was not so picturesque a figure, with his shorn head and his white slaves’-dress; but he stood straight and supple in his young strength, his head haughtily erect, his eyes bright and fearless as a young falcon’s.