61. Without delay or hesitation went Bjarki towards her, and hewed at her so that the axe went deep; a monstrous stream of blood gushed from her.
62. "Choose now, Hjalti, of two things"—so spake Bothvar the champion—"Drink now the blood, or I slay thee here; it seems unto me that there is no valour in thee."
63. Hjalti replied stoutly enough, "I cannot bring myself to drink blood; but if I needs must, it avails most [to submit], and now is there no better choice."
64. Hjalti did as Bothvar bade: he stooped down to the blood; then drank he three sups: that will suffice him to wrestle with one man.
IV, 58-64.
4. He [Hjalti] has gained good courage and keen spirit; he got strength and all valour from the she-wolf's blood.
5. A grey bear visited the folds at Hleithargarth; many such a ravager was there far and wide throughout the country.
6. The blame was laid upon Bjarki, because he had slain the herdsmen's dogs; it was not so suited for him to have to strive with men[[312]].
7. Rolf and all his household prepared to hunt the bear; "He who faces the beast shall be greatest in my hall."
8. Roaring did the bear leap forth from out its den, swinging its evil claws, so that men shrank back.