land, and a few sheep; and thereafter, about a bow-draught from the
river, they saw a little house of wood and straw-thatch under a
wooded mound, and with orchard trees about it. They wondered little
thereat, for they knew no cause why that land should not be builded,
though it were in the far outlands. However, they drew their ship
up to the bank, thinking that they would at least abide awhile and
ask tidings and have some refreshing of the green plain, which was
so lovely and pleasant.

But while they were busied herein they saw a man come out of the
house, and down to the river to meet them; and they soon saw that he
was tall and old, long-hoary of hair and beard, and clad mostly in
the skins of beasts.

He drew nigh without any fear or mistrust, and coming close to them
gave them the sele of the day in a kindly and pleasant voice. The
shipmaster greeted him in his turn, and said withal: "Old man, art
thou the king of this country?"

The elder laughed; "It hath had none other a long while," said he;
"and at least there is no other son of Adam here to gainsay."

"Thou art alone here then?" said the master.

"Yea," said the old man; "save for the beasts of the field and the
wood, and the creeping things, and fowl. Wherefore it is sweet to
me to hear your voices."

Said the master: "Where be the other houses of the town?"