KINGS OF NORWAY. 105 X. SAGA OF OLAF KYRRE.* SAGA X. Olaf remained sole king of Norway after the death Chapter of his brother King Magnus. Olaf was a stout man, oiafs well 2:rown in limbs ; and every one said a handsomer personal o ^ *i appearance. man could not be seen, nor of a nobler appearance. His hair was yellow as silk, and became him well ; his skin was white and fine over all his body ; his eyes beautiful, and his limbs well proportioned. He was rather silent in general, and did not speak much even at Things ; but he was merry in drinking parties. He loved drinking much, and was talkative enough then ; but quite peaceful. He was cheerful in con- versation, peacefully inclined during all his reign, and loving gentleness and moderation in all things. Stein Herdisarson speaks thus of him : — Our Drontheim king is brave and wise. His love of peace our bonders prize; By friendly word and ready hand He holds good peace through every land. He is for all a lucky star; England he frightens from a war; The stiff-necked Danes he drives to peace; Troubles by his good influence cease." It was the fashion in Norway in old times for the king's high seat to be on the middle of a long bench, and the ale was handed across the firef ; but King
- Olaf Kyrre, or the Quiet, reigned from about IO69 to 1093.
"I" We may understand the arrangement by supposing the fire in the middle of the room, the smoke escaping by a hole in the roof, and a long bench on each side of the fire ; one bench occupied by the high seat of the king and great guests, the other by the rest of the guests ; and the cup handed across the fire, which appears to have had a religious meaning previous to the introduction of Christianity. Chapter II. Of King Olaf's manner of living.
