fresh-faced, and dressed like a prince. On either hand, like beads on a
necklace, the crew of the "Sea-Deer" were strung along. Kark came the
very last of the line, in the lowest seat by the door. Alwin had fresh
cause to be grateful to the fate that had changed their stations. His
place was on the foot-stool before Leif's high-seat, guarding the
chief's cup. It was an honorable place, and one from which he could see
and hear, and even speak with Sigurd when anything happened that was too
interesting to keep to himself.

Among Leif's men there were many temptations to consult together. Not
one but was waiting in tense expectancy for the move that should
disclose the guardsman's mission. They had sternest commands from Leif
to take no step without his order. They had equally positive word from
Valbrand to defend their chief at all hazards. Between the two, they sat
breathless and strained, even while they swallowed the delicacies before
them.

When the towels and hand-basins had gone quite around, and all the food
had been put upon the table, and the feast was well under way, three
musicians were brought in bearing fiddles and a harp. Their performance
formed a cover under which the guests could relieve their minds.

"Do you observe that he has let his crucifix slide around under his
cloak where it is not likely to be noticed?" one whispered to another.
"It is my belief that he wishes to put off the evil hour."

"When the horse-flesh is passed to him he will be obliged to refuse, and
that will betray him," the other answered.

But Eric did not see when Leif shook his head at the bearer of the