After a time Estein came up to their guide's side, and said,—
"It will take us surely longer than you said. We had to travel for long through open country when we left the town, and we have never reached the beginning of it yet."
Jomar gave a quick, contemptuous laugh, and answered shortly,—
"Think you then that Thorar brought you by the shortest route? Those prisoners whom you set free reached King Bue's hall many hours before you. You are not wise, you Northmen."
Estein looked for a moment as though he would have retorted sharply, but biting his lip he fell back again, nor did he exchange another word with the man.
It was about mid-day, when, as they were coming down a wooded slope, Helgi exclaimed,—
"Hark! what is that clamour?"
Jomar too heard the shouts, for he stopped for a moment and listened keenly, and then started off faster than before. With every step they took the distant sounds grew louder and the shouts of men, and even it seemed the clash of steel, could be distinguished.
"The attack is made," cried Helgi. "Pray the gods they scatter not the dogs before we come up."
Jomar heard him, and looked over his shoulder with a savage glance.