Karl raised his head, and peered around through the driving snow.
"By my sword, Olvir," he muttered; "you ask what is beyond my skill. Here among the trees the blast swirls down from every quarter. Who could guide through such a storm?"
"Then we must wander blindly. If we stand, we shall perish of cold."
"Follow, then. We 'll try at a venture."
"Stay, sire!" warned Gerold. "What comes behind you?"
Karl turned sharply to stare at the huge form which loomed up out of the snow-mist and drifted by within a spear-length. As it passed, the great shape swung about its steaming muzzle to sniff at the party, and then it lumbered on at the same leisurely gait.
"A bear!" muttered Karl; and he drew back to shield his helpless charges.
Liutrad sprang before him with brandished spear.
"White biorn!" he cried,--"white biorn! What does the berg-rider in Frank Land?"
"Were I yet heathen," rejoined Olvir, "I 'd say we look upon the king's sprite."