The ship was then pushed off, and all men got them aboard; they anchored off the boat-steads, ready to sail at first twilight in the morning. Then when Grani saw his plan spoiled, in great uncertainty of mind he went to the hall and sat down on the lowest bench.
Quoth the Earl: "Come forward, Grani, and sit here near the dais; for thou didst save my realm as much as did those other two who have just said farewell."
"I know that well, lord," answered Grani.
"Come, sit here by my side," said the Earl, "and what thou askest in reward for thy deed, that I will give thee."
So Grani sat there by the Earl's side until it was dark out of doors, and he knew the stars were out, but no moon. With the feast, Thorfinn waxed joyous, for good tidings had come that day; and he began to press Grani to name the reward he would have for crossing the Pentland Firth to bring him news. So Grani said:
"Stretch forth thy hand now, Earl Thorfinn, and promise to grant me that thing which I ask, which shall take from no man his right or his own."
So the Earl stretched forth his hand in promise, and said: "Ask what thou wilt."
Then all the Orkneyingers listened while Grani made his request. "Oh Earl," said he, "make me thine outlaw!"
"Nay," cried the Earl, "what request is this? Dost thou mock me and my power?" And his men were angry, and some drew their swords.
But Grani said most earnestly, "I mean no insult, but much lies on it that thou shouldst make me outlaw."