I have ever esteemed Gunnar more highly than myself.
Hiördis.
Well, well—second to Gunnar is still a good place, and——[with a side glance at Thorolf] had Örnulf been here, he could have had the third seat.
Thorolf.
Then would Jökul, thy father, find a low place indeed; for he fell before Örnulf.
[The following dispute is carried on, by both parties, with rising and yet repressed irritation.
Hiördis.
That shalt thou never say! Örnulf is a skald, and men whisper that he has praised himself for greater deeds than he has done.
Thorolf.
Then woe to him who whispers so loudly that it comes to my ear!