alf could obtain the
king's sincere friendship and favour; for they thought the king was the
man to seek revenge for smaller offences than Kalf had committed against
the king. The king let every one say what he chose, and he himself
neither said yes or no about the affair; but people perceived that the
king was very well pleased with what had happened. King Harald once made
these verses:--

"I have, in all, the death-stroke given
To foes of mine at least eleven;
Two more, perhaps, if I remember,
May yet be added to this number,
I prize myself upon these deeds,
My people such examples needs.
Bright gold itself they would despise,
Or healing leek-herb underprize,
If not still brought before their eyes."

Fin Arnason took the business so much to heart that he left the country
and went to Denmark to King Svein, where he met a friendly reception.
They spoke together in private for a long time; and the end of the
business was that Fin went into King Svein's service, and became his
man. King Svein then gave Fin an earldom, and placed him in Halland,
where he was long earl and defended the country against the Northmen.

56. OF GUTHORM GUNHILDSON.

Ketil Kalf and Gunhild of Ringanes had a son called Guthorm, and he was
a sister's son to King Olaf and Harald Sigurdson. Guthorm was a gallant
man, early advanced to manhood. He was often with King Harald, who loved
him much, and asked his advice; for he was of good understanding, and
very popular. Guthorm had also been engaged early in forays, and had
marauded much in the Western countries with a large force. Ireland was
for him a land of peace; and he had his winter quarters often in Dublin,
and was in great friendship with King Margad.

57. GUTHORM'S JUNCTION WITH THE IRISH KING MARGAD.

The summer after King Margad, and Guthorm with him, went out on an
expedition against Bretland, where they made immense booty. But when the
king saw the quantity of silver which was gathered he wanted to have the
whole booty, and regarded little his friendship for Guthorm. Guthorm was
ill pleased that he and his men should be robbed of their share; but the
king said, "Thou must choose one of two things,--either to be content
with what we determine, or to fight; and they shall have the booty who
gain the victory; and likewise thou must give up thy ships, for them I
will have." Guthorm thought there were great difficulties on both sid