He replied, either not noticing or disregarding the dryness of
Estein's retort,--

"I knew well, Estein, thou wouldst come. Something told me thou
wouldst not linger on my summons."

"Did you then send for me to lead me into this snare?" said
Estein, his brows knitting darkly.

"Does one eagle betray another to the kites and crows?" replied
the old man loftily.

Estein burst out hotly,--

"Speak plainly, old man! Keep mysteries for Rune-carved staves and
kindred tricks. What mean this message and this plot and this
rescue? I have left my truest friend and twenty stout followers
besides in yonder hall. I myself have had to flee for my life from
a yelping pack of Jemtland dogs; and for aught I know, Ketill and
the rest of my force may be drugged with drink and burned in their
beds even while I talk with you. Give me some plain answer?"

Atli looked at him for a minute, and then replied gravely,--

"I have heard, indeed, that some strange change had befallen
Estein Hakonson. There was a time when he who had just saved thy
life would have had fairer thanks than this."

With a strong effort Estein controlled his temper and answered