In the clear
Well of Mimer.
Mimer mead
Each morning drinks
From All-Father’s pledge.’
“By the third root of the ash, which extends to heaven, is the Urdar-fount. By the fount stands a fair dwelling, out of which go the three maids, Urda, Verande, and Skuld. These maids appoint the lifetime of all men, and are called Nornir. Of them, saith the Vala:
“‘Thence come maids
Much knowing,—
Three,—from the lake (or hall)
Beneath the tree,’ &c.