"That is my errand here," cried Balin to the guests. "Now give me the truncheon," he said to the damsel, "with which he slew your knight."
She gave it to him, and Balin thrust it through Garlon's body, exclaiming,—
"With that truncheon you killed a good knight, and with this blow I revenge him."
Then he called his late host, who had by this gained entrance to the feast, and said,—
"Here lies your foe. Take with you enough of his blood to heal your son."
All this had happened so quickly that none had time to interfere, but the knights now sprang hastily from their seats, and rushed from the hall for their weapons, that they might revenge their slain companion. Among them rose King Pellam, crying furiously,—
"Why have you killed my brother! Villain and murderer, you shall die for this!"
"Here I stand," said Balin. "If you wish revenge, seek it yourself. I stand in my defence."
"It is well said," cried the king. "Stand back, all. For the love I bore my brother I will take his revenge on myself. Let no one interfere. This murderer is mine."
Then King Pellam snatched up a mighty weapon and struck fiercely at Balin, who threw up his own sword in guard. He was in time to save his head, but the treacherous blade went into pieces beneath the stroke, leaving him unarmed before the furious king.