But he lifted his hand again; his measured tones became like tolling bells. "Think well! I speak not in jest. If you accept, I take you in grim earnest. You may not have men's liberty without men's care, and I shall hold you like men to your word though the matter cause death itself. Think well!"
They did pause; his manner was impressive enough to insure that. But in a moment, Brand flung back his red locks daringly.
"Much should we lack in manhood if we would refuse a fair offer! Take our word!"
Every one of the twenty echoed him wildly. "Take our word!"
"It is taken," Karlsefne said gravely; then bent his gaze on the Red One. "It appears likely that you will be the chosen head, since you seem always to speak for your comrades?"
Brand flushed with delight. But before he could answer, Domar spoke bluntly:
"I do not see in what Brand is above the rest of us Greenlanders. I raise my voice for Alrek Ingolfsson."
"Alrek Ingolfsson, by all means!" Erland seconded; and Brand joined him generously.
In another moment, all were shouting, "Alrek! Alrek!"