Asbjorn.—Thord will be able to get over the Kjol Mountains or the Sprengisand Desert, down to the Eyafirth. There he will call upon his friends and attack us in the flank.
Thorolf.—That is unthinkable. In order to reach either of these ways Thord would have to journey around the whole island, and then overcome Hjalti the bishop's son, and Gissur's men. I should think it likeliest that Hjalti would flee north over the Kjol should he be defeated, and come our way some little time before Thord, who would have to go by a farther way and would waste his time in getting the men of Eyafirth to rise. Kolbein's plan of war is the best that can be chosen.
Kolbein.—It is most often Thorolf Bjarnason who best comprehends my plans.
Broddi (aside, clinching his hand against his breast).—Does he understand them best?
Brand.—All shall be done as you bid, kinsman Kolbein. I myself shall send three hundred men as guard into Hunathing.
Kolbein.—Then all is well, kinsman Brand!
Salvor.—You speak too much, my lord!
Kolbein.—I must speak to-day; to-day to-morrow is not sure to me (to the others). The third matter is the apportionment of the districts after my death.
Salvor.—Speaking irritates your wound, my lord, and you may become delirious.
Kolbein.—Let come what may! I will that my kinsman Brand have Skagafirth and Hunathing after my death. But Eyafirth and all districts east of the Heath I give to—(He becomes delirious. Lady HELGA makes a motion and stops him.)