“How much time do we need for the journey to the kingdom of the Big Men?”
“Not many days,” said Knowing Man.
Stores and provisions were put on the ship. Fin and the small men went on board, and set sail; before many days they arrived at the kingdom of the Big Men, and drew up their ship high and dry. They set out then for the castle of the king; and no greater wonder was ever seen in that place than Fin and his eight little men.
The king invited Fin and his company to a great feast. At the end of the feast, the king said, “My third son was born to-day. My first son was taken away on the night after his birth, and so was my second. I am full sure that this one will be taken from me to-night.”
“I will guard the child,” said Fin; “and if I let your son go with any one, I will give you my head.”
The king was satisfied. Fin asked for a strong chamber and two nurses. The strongest chamber in the castle was made ready; then Fin and his men, with the child and two nurses, took their places inside.
“Do you know what will happen to-night?” asked Knowing Man.
“I do not,” replied Fin; “and I do not like to chew my thumb.[5] You can tell me.”
“You gave your head in pledge,” said Knowing Man, “for the safety of the child; and you were a strange man to do so, for the child will be taken from this to-night.”