Yet often they must needs admire his wit and liveliness;
At times his cunning was of use worse mischief to prevent,
And when buffoonery prevail’d, there was his element.
But not innocuous were his jokes; sharp, like the razor’s edge,
Both friend and foe alike they cut, yet ’twas his privilege.
When circulates the brimming horn and seriousness gives way,
We sometimes listen to a fool and tolerate his play.
With Fenris first he play’d, the wolf, whom he in a dark cave
Of a foul witch begot; but all the guests with aspect grave
Beheld the sport; it pleased them not, nor did his laughter help;