"When our men their arms are taking The raven's wings with greed are shaking; When they come back to drink in hall Brave spoil they bring to deck the wall-- Shield, helms, and panzers (1), all in row, Stripped in the field from lifeless fow. In truth no royal nail comes near Thy splendid hall in precious gear." Afterwards Sigvat told of his journey, and sang these verses:-- "The king's court-guards desire to hear About our journey and our cheer, Our ships in autumn reach the sound, But long the way to Swedish ground. With joyless weather, wind and raind, And pinching cold, and feet in pain-- With sleep, fatigue, and want oppressed, No songs had we--we scarce had rest." And when he came into conversation with the king he sang:-- "When first I met the earl I told How our king loved a friend so bold; How in his heart he loved a man With hand to do, and head to plan. Thou generous king! with zeal and care I sought to advance thy great affair; For messengers from Russian land Had come to ask Ingegerd's hand. The earl, thy friend, bids thee, who art So mild and generous of heart, His servants all who here may come To cherish in thy royal home; And thine who may come to the east In Ragnvald's hall shall find a feast-- In Ragnvald's house shall find a home-- At Ragnvald's court be still welcome. When first I came the people's mind Incensed by Eirik's son I find; And he refused the 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's sake!"