"The Holy Mother bless you!" cried Hildegarde; and the king, flushing with pleasure, added heartily, "Amen to the good wish! You have well earned it, my bright Dane,--you and all your followers, though you be twice over heathen. Before sunset the grim warriors shall see the maiden in their midst. Now come to my side, child, and let a seat be brought for our guests."
CHAPTER IX
As fair as thou seest
Brides on the bench abiding.
Let not love's silver
Rule over thy dreams;
Draw no woman to kind kisses.
LAY OF SIGRDRIFA.
As Rothada sprang up the step of the dais to nestle close to her father, Gerold drew out a bench from the nearest wall. On this Olvir seated himself, and the king beckoned to Liutrad and Roland.
"Come forward, heroes," he said; "and you, Gerold."