came. Then rode Ygg to the eastern gate, where he knew there was a
Vala's grave.

9. To the prophetess, he began a magic song to chant, towards the
north looked, potent runes applied, a spell pronounced, an answer
demanded, until compelled she rose, and with deathlike voice she said:

_Vala_.

10. "What man is this, to me unknown, who has for me increased an
irksome course? I have with snow been decked, by rain beaten, and with
dew moistened: long have I been dead."

_Vegtam_.

11. "Vegtam is my name, I am Valtam's son. Tell thou me of Hel:
from, earth I call on thee. For whom are those benches strewed o'er
with rings, those costly couches o'erlaid with gold?"

_Vala_.

12. "Here stands mead, for Baldr brewed, over the bright potion a
shield is laid; but the Æsir race are in despair. By compulsion I have
spoken. I will now be silent."

_Vegtam_.

13. "Be not silent, Vala! I will question thee, until I know all. I
will yet know who will Baldr's slayer be, and Odin's son of life
bereave."