Then raising his voice till it rang through the night, he cried,—
"But now, King Estein, the ship has crossed the seas!"
There was a minute's silence after he had finished, and then the king took Osla by the hand and drew her towards the door, saying,—
"I wish them to see my queen to-night."
"Let me come to-morrow," she whispered.
"Go in, Osla," said her uncle, "I bid thee," and so she went in with Estein to the hall.
As he led her up to the high seat, dead silence fell on the guests, and all men gazed in growing wonder. Opposite Earl Sigvald he stopped, and throwing back her hood, cried,—
"You will live to see me married yet, jarl. My southern voyage shall be changed into my wedding feast. Behold Osla, Queen of Sogn!"
Before his father had time to reply, Helgi sprang from his seat with a shout, and saluting Osla on the cheek, exclaimed,—
"First of all King Estein's friends I wish you joy! Do you remember the sheep-skin coat? I have not forgotten the maiden. Skoal to Queen Osla!"