difference in the
numbers, we have to expect victory from a sharp assault only; and,
on the other hand, it will be heavy work for us to fight until we are
tired, and unable to fight longer; for we have fewer people to relieve
with than they, who can come forward at one time and retreat and rest
at another. But if we advance so hard at the first attack that those who
are foremost in their ranks must turn round, then the one will fall over
the other, and their destruction will be the greater the greater numbers
there are together." When the king had ended his speech it was received
with loud applause, and the one encouraged the other.

224. OF THORD FOLASON.

Thord Folason carried King Olaf's banner. So says Sigvat the skald,
in the death-song which he composed about King Olaf, and put together
according to resurrection saga:--

"Thord. I have heard, by Olaf's side,
Where raged the battle's wildest tide,
Moved on, and, as by one accord
Moved with them every heart and sword.
The banner of the king on high,
Floating all splendid in the sky
From golden shaft, aloft he bore,--
The Norsemen's rallying-point of yore."

225. OF KING OLAF'S ARMOUR.

King Olaf was armed thus:--He had a gold-mounted helmet on his head; and
had in one hand a white shield, on which the holy cross was inlaid in
gold. In his other hand he had a lance, which to the present day stands
beside the altar in Christ Church. In his belt he had a sword, which was
called Hneiter, which was remarkably sharp, and of which the handle was
worked with gold. He had also a strong coat of ring-mail. Sigvat the
skald, speaks of this:--

"A greater victory to gain,
Olaf the Stout strode o'er the plain
In strong chain armour, aid to bring
To his brave men on either wing.
High rose the fight and battle-heat,--
the clear blood ran beneath the feet
Of Swedes, who from the East came there,
In Olaf's gain or loss to share."

226. KING OLAF'S DREAM.

Now when King Olaf had drawn up his men the army of the bondes had not
yet come near upon any quarter, so the king said the people should sit
down and rest themselves. He sat down himself, and the people sat around
him in a widespread crowd. He leaned down, and laid his head upon Fin
Arnason's knee. There a slumber came upon him, and he slept a little
while; but at the same time the bondes' army was seen advancing with
r