308 CHRONICLE OF THE SAGA XVI. those who belonged to her had run on board of other ships, and she was therefore the hindmost of Hakon's fleet. When Eindrid came abreast of the island Sek, the Beikesuden, which Erling Skakke himself com- manded, came up with her ; and these two ships were bound fast together. King Hakon and his followers had arrived close to Veoy ; but when they heard the war- horn they turned again to assist Eindrid. Now they began the battle on both sides, as the vessels came up. Many of the sails lay midships across the vessels ; and the ships were not made fast to each other, but they lay side by side. The conflict was not long before there came disorder in Hakon's ship ; and some fell, and others sprang overboard. Hakon threw over him a grey cloak, and jumped on board another ship ; but when he had been there a short time he thought he had got among his enemies ; and when he looked about him he saw none of his men nor of his shij^s near him. Then he went into the Beikesuden to the forecastle-men, and begged his life. They took him in their keeping, and gave him quarter. In this con- flict there was a great loss of people, but principally of Hakon's men. In the Beikesuden fell Nicolas, Simun Skalp's son ; and Erling's men are accused of having killed him themselves. Then there was a pause in the battle, and the vessels separated. It was now told to Erhng that Hakon was on board of his ship; that the forecastle-men had taken him, and threatened that they would defend him with arms. Erling sent men forwards in the ship to bring the forecastle-men his orders to guard Hakon well, so that he should not get away. He at the same time let it be understood that he had no objection to giving the king life and safety, if the other chiefs were willing, and a peace could be estabhshed. All the forecastle- men gave their chief great credit and honour for these words. Then Erling ordered anew a blast of the
