The Maiden now explained That this was hard to do: Few crews the course obtained- A very seldom few. To trap them in this deep, Great storms the North Wind sent, Her father, who his sleep In ice-bound caverns spent. Yet longer he would rest, Perhaps a month in all; For them to stay were best, Safe in her island hall. Then later, firm she swore, To strive hard for their sake.- No course Bearslayer saw, But her advice to take. The North Wind's Daughter steered, Her ship sailed further on, To where bright had appeared The glow that earlier shone. And at an island's shore, Its hills in icy grip, Her craft she docked once more, Here led Bearslayer's ship. She took him with his crew Far inland from the shore; Where they, with wondering view, A splendid castle saw. Its towers, roof and walls Of ice were frozen hard.- They stayed outside its halls, The North Wind's sleep to guard. Across broad fields of snow, Rose smoke clouds from the land. Her guests she told to go, And gestured with her hand.- Some way they went apace; The air soon ceased to freeze, And snow drifts now gave place To fields and groves of trees. Within a garden fair, Was, deep as Hell, a pit, Whence flames shot in the air, From fires eternal lit. As they at Earth's core burned, Their endless flames rose hot, This icy island turned Into a verdant plot. Dense foliage, full of fruit, Hung there upon each tree, With babbling brooks to suit- All creatures lived carefree. Wild birds and beasts of prey, But farmyard creatures too, Could flourish here and play, In meadows sweet with dew. The North Wind's Daughter's spear Upon her shield struck thrice- This made small folk appear From all sides in a trice. At Earth's far edge they dwelled, And served the Maid's behest; These folk she now compelled To welcome every guest. A pavilion they observed Where tables full were laid, Delicious food was served, And all was ready made. The North Wind's Daughter bade, Her guests should there appear; And while they ate was glad, To serve to each sweet beer. Another tent again Had beds all warm prepared, That rest might dull the pain Of hardships they had shared.- No sun could come or go, They knew not day or night, Yet still the pit's bright glow Gave forth sufficient light. The time passed full of ease, Of pleasures they were sure; Each day as much could please, As had the one before. They stayed a goodly spell, Could all their needs fulfil, It pleased them there so well, To leave none had the will. Scene 4: The journey back They leave the Northern Land At last Bearslayer stirred: The Maiden he implored, To show the course preferred, And let them go on board. The North Wind's Daughter gave Her vow all to fulfil, But sought their lives to save, With better counsel still. For he should not retrace The path he took before, Because he there would face His enemies of yore, Who now might well succeed To smash him with their force. Therefore, he should proceed Along a better course.