She,
the Etheling himself, were but as shadows depending upon his sun-like career.
If he should choose to shine upon them, what dark evil could come nigh? It was
in all sincerity that she bent her knee as she took his hand. "Lord," she
cried impulsively, "I have brought you back a loyal heart! I have been very
close to the English King, and he is unworthy to hold your sword."
Canute gave a sudden laugh; but it was a short one, and he turned away
abruptly to begin a restless pacing to and fro. "You choose your words in a
thoughtful way," he said. "It is seen that you do not say how it would be if
he were to hold his sword against mine." Pausing before Rothgar, he jerked his
head toward the scroll. "Do you know what that is? That is a challenge from
the Ironside."
"A challenge?" his listeners cried in chorus.
He seemed to take petulant offence at their surprise. "A challenge. Did you
never hear the word before, that you stare like oxen? He invites me to settle
this affair by single combat on the island, yonder; and there is the greatest
sense in what he says. Every one who has a man's wit is tired of the strife;
and if we continue at it, there will not be much to win besides ashes and
bones."
Rothgar sat gazing at the wooden door as though he could see through it the
huddled groups outside. "Now by no means do I think it strange that your host
is not in high spirits," he said.
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