Slowly and thoughtfully Sintram rode on towards his father's castle,
his horse now again quiet and altogether exhausted. He scarcely knew
how much he ought to relate of his wonderful journey, and he also
felt oppressed with anxiety for the good Rolf, who had remained so
far behind. He found himself at the castle-gate sooner than he had
expected; the drawbridge was lowered, the doors were thrown open; an
attendant led the youth into the great hall, where Biorn was sitting
all alone at a huge table, with many flagons and glasses before him,
and suits of armour ranged on either side of him. It was his daily
custom, by way of company, to have the armour of his ancestors, with
closed visors, placed all round the table at which he sat. The
father and son began conversing as follows:

"Where is Rolf?"

"I do not know, father; he left me in the mountains."

"I will have Rolf shot if he cannot take better care than that of my
only child."

"Then, father, you will have your only child shot at the same time,
for without Rolf I cannot live; and if even one single dart is aimed
at him, I will be there to receive it, and to shield his true and
faithful heart."

"So!--Then Rolf shall not be shot, but he shall be driven from the
castle."

"In that case, father, you will see me go away also; and I will give
myself up to serve him in forests, in mountains, in caves."