perfectly well that of all the sailors in longships along that land
not one was more long-headed, more perfect in the art of war or in
making other leaders at a council believe his was the better way, than
was the man who sat by his side. So he looked at Ulf and laughed a
little; then he said,

"If this black-haired thrall is guilty of aught then am I, for I too
say, 'If Sigurd was Jarl only because of his strength,' another than
he might lead us in battle. Every man has two strong arms. So strong
arms are many, but wise heads are few."

Now this was a good word, and Sigurd was well pleased, as indeed he
ought to have been, for it was a great compliment to himself. But it
seemed to him that it would be well for him to say next a word which
might show that he was worthy of such praise. So, after he had thought
a while, he said,

"Ulf goes free. He has done no wrong. Thorold should learn that a
warrior who does not think as well as strike is good only for rowing.
Now, this is my word to thee and to all my small people. Jarl Swend
well says that strong arms are plenty, but heads to plan are few. Let
us raise up more good heads. Twelve moons from now I will call you
together. On that day the boy who brings to me the most wonderful
thing which he has made with his own hands, planned out by himself,
shall receive a prize worthy of a jarl's giving."

He paused, and looked thoughtfully at Edith Fairhair's eager face.
Then he said,

"If the girls wish to try it like their brothers, they too shall have