Howard Claims Wergild for Olaf
When a year had passed away Biargey came to Howard where he lay in his bed, and bade him arise and go to Bathstead. Said she:
“I would have thee claim wergild for our son, since a man that can no longer fight may well prove his valour by word of mouth, and if Thorbiorn should show any sign of justice thou shalt not claim too much.”
Howard replied: “I know it is a bootless errand to ask justice from Thorbiorn, but I will do thy will in this matter.”
So Howard went heavily, walking as an old man, to Bathstead, and, after the usual greetings, said:
“I have come to thee, Thorbiorn, on a great matter—to claim wergild for my dead son Olaf, whom thou didst slay guiltless.”
Thorbiorn answered: “I have never yet paid a wergild, though I have slain many men—some say innocent men. But I am sorry for thee, since thou hast lost a brave son, and I will at least give thee something. There is an old horse named Dodderer out in the pastures, grey with age, sore-backed, too old to work; but thou canst take him home, and perhaps he will be some good, when thou hast fed him up.”
Now Howard was angered beyond speech. He reddened and turned straight to the door; and as he went down the hall Vakr shouted and jeered; but Howard said no word, good or bad. He returned home, and took to his bed for another year.
Howard leaves the house of Thorbiorn