until after many long miles we came to the little hill of the other
Burgh that stands where Waveney parts in two streams, one eastward
to the sea, and the other northward to join the Yare mouth.

The moon had risen by the time we came there, and I could see a
large fishing boat at the staithe, and, alas! alongside of her a
smaller boat that I knew so well--that in which Lodbrok had come,
and in which I had passed so many pleasant hours with him. Then the
thought crossed my mind that what he had taught me of her was like
to be my safety now; but my mind was dazed by all the strange
things that came into it, and I tried not to think. Only I wondered
if Ulfkytel had got the boat without a struggle with our people.

The earl was there with a few more thanes and many more guards, and
they waited by the waterside.

One man started from beside the earl as we came, and rode swiftly
towards us. It was Egfrid, my brother-in-law to be--if this did not
bring all that fair plan to naught.

He cried out to the men to stay, and they, knowing who he was, did
so, and made no trouble about his coming to my side. There he
reined up his horse, and laid his hand on my shoulder.

"Alas for this meeting, my brother!" he cried. "What can I do? Men
came and told me of rumour that was flying about concerning this
business, and I have ridden hard to get to Reedham, but I met the
earl, who told me all. And I have prayed him to let the king judge,
but he will not, saying that his mind is fixed on higher
judgment--and you know what he is."