CHAP. XXI

Olaf the Peacock goes to Ireland, A.D. 955


Now Hoskuld came back from the Thing and heard these tidings, and was
very much displeased. But seeing that his near akin were concerned in
the matter, he quieted down and let things alone. Olaf and his
companions had a good voyage, and came to Norway. Orn urges Olaf to go
to the court of King Harald, who, he said, bestowed goodly honour on
men of no better breeding than Olaf was. Olaf said he thought he would
take that counsel. Olaf and Orn now went to the court, and were well
received. The king at once recognised Olaf for the sake of his
kindred, and forthwith bade him stay with him. Gunnhild paid great
heed to Olaf when she knew he was Hrut's brother's son; but some men
would have it, that she took pleasure in talking to Olaf without his
needing other people's aid to introduce him. [Sidenote: Olaf wishes to
leave Norway] As the winter wore on, Olaf grew sadder of mood. Orn
asked him what was the matter of his sorrow? Olaf answered, "I have on
hand a journey to go west over the sea; and I set much store by it and
that you should lend me your help, so that it may be undertaken in the
course of next summer." Orn bade Olaf not set his heart on going, and
said he did not know of any ships going west over the sea. Gunnhild
joined in their talk, and said, "Now I hear you talk together in a
manner that has not happened before, in that each of you wants to have
his own way!" Olaf greeted Gunnhild well, without letting drop their