them, but there was no reason for it. He went out, but most
unwillingly. When he came to the ladder he said to himself that there
was no need to draw it up. He felt very sleepy, lay down and slept all
day, and did not wake until Thorbjorn reached the island. They saw then
that the ladder was not drawn up. Thorbjorn said: "The situation has
changed from what it used to be; there are no men moving about, and the
ladder is in its place. It may be that more will come of our journey
than we expected at first. Now let us go to the hut and not let our
courage slacken. If they are well we may know for certain that there
will be need for each to do his very best."

They went up the ladder, looked round and saw close to the ascent a
man lying and snoring aloud. Thorbjorn recognised Glaum, went up to the
rascal and told him to wake up, striking his ear with the hilt of his
sword and saying: "Truly he is in a bad case whose life is entrusted to
your keeping."

Glaum looked up and said: "They are going on as usual. Do you think my
freedom such a great thing while I am lying here in the cold?"

Angle said: "Have you lost your wits? Don't you see that your enemies
are upon you and about to kill you all?"

Glaum said nothing, but on recognising the men cried out as loud as he
could.

"Do one thing or the other," said Angle; "either be silent this moment
and tell me all about your household, or be killed."

Glaum was as silent as if he had been dipped in water.

Thorbjorn said: "Are the brothers in the hut? Why are they not about?"

"That would not be so easy," said Glaum, "for Grettir is sick and nigh
to death and Illugi is sitting with him."

Thorbjorn asked about his condition, and what had happened. Then Glaum
told him all about Grettir's wound.

Angle laughed and said: "True is the ancient saying that Old friends are
the last to break away, and also this, that It is ill to have a thrall
for your friend--such a one as you, Glaum! You have shamefully betrayed
your liege lord, though there was little good in him."

Then the others cast reproaches at him for his villainy; they beat him
almost helpless and left him lying there. Then they went on to the hut
and knocked violently at the door.

Illugi said: "Greybelly [1] is knocking at the door, brother."

"He is knocking rather loud," said Grettir; "most unmercifully." Then
the door broke in pieces. Illugi rushed to his arms and defended the
door so that they could not get