Part 237 - Meeting Of The King And The Bondes

As the armies on both sides stood so near that people knew each other, the king said,

"Why art thou here, Kalf, for we parted good friends south in More? It beseems thee ill to fight against us, or to throw a spear into our army; for here are four of thy brothers."

Kalf replied,

"Many things come to pass differently from what may appear seemly. You parted from us so that it was necessary to seek peace with those who were behind in the country. Now each must remain where he stands; but if I might advise, we should be reconciled."

Then Fin, his brother, answered,

"This is to be observed of Kalf, that when he speaks fairly he has it in his mind to do ill."

The king answered,

"It may be, Kalf, that thou art inclined to reconciliation; but, methinks, the bondes do not appear so peaceful."

Then Thorgeir of Kviststad said,

"You shall now have such peace as many formerly have received at your hands, and which you shall now pay for."

The king replies,

"Thou hast no occasion to hasten so much to meet us; for fate has not decreed to thee to-day a victory over me, who raised thee to power and dignity from a mean station."