Thorgils begged Cormac to let them turn back, saying there was
little honour to be got; but Cormac said he must see Steingerd.

So Vali went with them and they came to Muli where Bersi was and
many men with him. They spoke together. Cormac said that Bersi
had betrayed him in carrying off Steingerd, "But now we would
take the lady with us, and make him amends for his honour."

To this said Thord Arndisarson, "We will offer terms to Cormac,
but the lady is in Bersi's hands."

"There is no hope that Steingerd will go with you," said Bersi;
"but I offer my sister to Cormac in marriage, and I reckon he
will be well wedded if take Helga."

"This is a good offer," said Thorgils; "let us think of it,
brother."

But Cormac started back like a restive horse.


CHAPTER NINE
Of Another Witch, And Two Magic Swords.

There was a woman called Thordis -- and a shrew she was -- who
lived at Spakonufell (Spaequean's-fell), in Skagastrand. She,
having foresight of Cormac's goings, came that very day to Muli,
and answered this matter on his behalf, saying, "Never give him
yon false woman. She is a fool, and not fit for any pretty man.
Woe will his mother be at such a fate for her lad!"