A feeling came across Sintram that he must already have seen this
knight somewhere; and he stood motionless for a few moments. But
suddenly he raised his hand, to make the agreed signal of attack.
In vain did the good Rolf, who had just succeeded in getting up to
him, whisper in his ear that these could not be the foes whom he had
taken them for, but that they were unknown, and certainly high and
noble strangers.

"Let them be who they may," replied the wild youth, "they have
enticed me here to wait, and they shall pay the penalty of thus
fooling me. Say not another word, if you value your life." And
immediately he gave the signal, a thick shower of javelins followed
from all sides, and the Norwegian warriors rushed forth with flashing
swords. They found their foes as brave, or somewhat braver, than
they could have desired. More fell on the side of those who made
than of those who received the assault; and the strangers appeared to
understand surprisingly the Norwegian manner of fighting. The knight
in steel armour had not in his haste put on his helmet; but it seemed
as if he in no wise needed such protection, for his good sword
afforded him sufficient defence even against the spears and darts
which were incessantly hurled at him, as with rapid skill he received
them on the shining blade, and dashed them far away, shivered into
fragments.

Sintram could not at the first onset penetrate to where this shining
hero was standing, as all his followers, eager after such a noble
prey, thronged closely round him; but now the way was cleared enough
for him to spring towards the brave stranger, shouting a war-cry, and
brandishing his sword above his head.