KINGS OF NORWAY. 113 The two-years' chatter Seemed senseless matter; The three-years' croak Of wonders spoke. The foul bird said My old mare's head I row along; And, in her song. She said the thief Was the land's chief/' '^ The three-year-old crow says that you bid me row here before your ship, and yet have taken my property from me." The king said, " What is this, bonder ! Wilt thou call me a thief? That is not judging well of me." "It is true, sire," said the bonder, " that would not be well said, neither do I think you the thief; and there has been some joke played on me, for the crow said my horse is on board the ship." After some conversation between the king and the bonder, the king gave him good presents, and remitted the land-rent of the place he lived on ; and gave him the farm to be his own property for ever, besides other considerable gifts. King Olaf was not niggardly in giving presents to his men, and gave all kinds of valuable articles. So says Stuff the scald : — ^^ The pillar of our royal race Stands forth adorned with every grace. What king before e'er took such pride To scatter bounty far and wide ? To one he gives the ship of war. Hung round with shields that gleam afar; The merchant ship on one bestows. With painted streaks in glowing rows. " The man-at-arms a golden ring Boasts as the present of his king; At the king's table sits the guest. By the king's bounty richly drest. King Olaf, Norway's royal son. Who from the English glory won, Pours out with ready-giving hand His wealth on children of the land. VOL. III. I SAGA X.
