when
Hengler and his party returned with the pine cones and birch bark, both
of which substances are exceedingly resinous and inflammable. Leif made
the men carry them to the top of the pole, and pile them on the
platform. He then ordered a small fire to be kindled in a corner of the
fort, but to be kept very low and small, so that the tiny wreath of
smoke which arose from it might be dissipated before it reached the
battlements. After that he called all the men to him.

"Now, my lads," said he, "it is likely that these savages will try to
take us by surprise. This they will not find it easy to do. From what
I know of them they will come like the fox--slily--and try to pounce
upon us. We will let them come; we will let them pounce, and not show
face until such time as I give the word--then ye will know how to quit
you like men. Away, all of you, to rest--each man with his shield above
him and his sword by his side. I myself will do the part of sentinel."

The men quietly obeyed this order. Leif did not think it necessary to
say more to them, but to Hengler and two others who had been selected as
leaders he revealed more minutely the intended plan of action before
they lay down.

Leaving Hengler for a few minutes to guard the walls, he entered the
shed where the women were seated.

"You must keep well under cover, Gudrid," he said, "for it is likely
that these fellows will shower some arrows upon us--perhaps something
heavier; but we are well prepared to receive them."

"Are our enemies numerous?" asked Gudrid anxiously.

"So it is said, but that will do them little service so long as we are
behind these walls."

"I wish I had my fingers in their chief's hair!" muttered Freydissa
between her teeth.

"I echo the wish you expressed not long ago," said Leif laughing.
"Would that thou wert a man, Freydissa, for assuredly a spirit like
thine is invaluable on the field of battle."

"Thankful am I that there are other fields besides battle-fields where
women may be useful," observed Bertha, who was seated on a box beside
Astrid, with her arm round her waist.

Freydissa merely cast on her handmaid a look of scorn, for she was aware
that neither the time nor place was suited to the exercise of her
peculiar talents.

"I just looked in to assure you that all goes well," said Leif,
addressing the women generally, "and that you have nothing to fear."

"We fear _nothing_!" said Freydissa, answering for the rest