“Well, and that he hath, though hardly,” and he told her all that had happened, and how, as he rode with Skallagrim, who yet sat yonder on his horse, he caught sight of a woman seated on the grass and knew the colour of the cloak.
Then Gudruda kissed him for very joy, and they were happy each with each—for of all things that are sweet on earth, there is nothing more sweet than this: to find him we loved, and thought dead and cold, alive and at our side.
And so they talked and were very glad with the gladness of youth and love, till Eric said he must on to Middalhof before the light failed, for he could not come on horseback the way that Gudruda took, but must ride round the shoulder of the hill; and, moreover, he was spent with toil and hunger, and Skallagrim grew weary of waiting.
“Go!” said Gudruda; “I will be there presently!”
So he kissed her and went, and Swanhild saw the kiss and saw him go.
“Well, lord,” said Skallagrim, “hast thou had thy fill of kissing?”
“Not altogether,” answered Eric.
They rode a while in silence.
“I thought the maid seemed very fair!” said Skallagrim.
“There are women less favoured, Skallagrim.”