328 CHKONICLE OF THE • SAGA XVI. enter into a peace with him. In summer Erling was in Yiken, where he fitted out a long- ship, manned it with his finest lads, and sailed (a single ship) over to Jutland. When he heard that the Danish king Waldemar was in Randeros^, Erling sailed thither, and came to the town just as the king sat at the dinner-table, and most of the people were taking their meal. When his people had made themselves ready- according to Erling's orders, set up the ship-tents, and made fiist the ship, Erling landed with twelve men, all in armour, with hats over their helmets, and swords under their cloaks. They went to the king's lodging, where the doors stood open, and the dishes were being carried in. Erling and his people went in immediately, and drew up in front of the high seat. Erling said, " Peace and safe conduct we desire, king, both here and to return home." " The king looked at him, and said, ^' Art thou here, Erling ? " He replies, Here is Erling ; and tell us, at once, if we shall have peace and safe conduct." There were eighty of the king's men in the room, but all unarmed. The king replies, " Peace ye shall have, Erling, according to thy desire ; for I will not use force or villany against a man who comes to visit me." Erling then kissed the king's hand, went out, and down to his ship. Erling staid at Randeros some time with the king, and they talked about terms of peace between them and between the countries. They agreed that Erling should remain as hostage with the Danish king ; and that Asbiorn Snare, Bishop Absa- lon's brother, should go to Norway as hostage on the other part. Chapter In a confereucc which King Waldemar and Erling Conversa- o^cc had together, Erhng said, " Sire, it appears to tion be-
- Randeros — town of Randers in North Jutland.
