The king--"Our case was judged at the Upsala Thing. But what was his
meaning when he said that bad payment was made; namely, a gosling for
a goose, a pig for a swine, and clay and dirt for half of the money
instead of gold?"
Arnvid the Blind replied, "Sire, red gold and clay are things very
unlike; but the difference is still greater between king and slave. You
promised Olaf the Thick your daughter Ingegerd, who, in all branches of
her descent, is born of kings, and of the Upland Swedish race of kings,
which is the most noble in the North; for it is traced up to the gods
themselves. But now Olaf has got Astrid; and although she is a king's
child, her mother was but a slave-woman, and, besides, of Vindish race.
Great difference, indeed, must there be between these kings, when the
one takes thankfully such a match; and now it is evident, as might be
expected, that no Northman is to be placed by the side of the Upsala
kings. Let us all give thanks that it has so turned out; for the gods
have long protected their descendants, although many now neglect this
faith."
There were three brothers:--Arnvid the Blind, who had a great
understanding, but was so weak-sighted that he was scarcely fit for
war; the second was Thorvid the Stammerer, who could not utter two words
together at one time, but was remarkably bold and courageous; the third
was Freyvid the Deaf, who was hard of hearing. All these brothers were
rich and powerful men, of noble birth, great wisdom, and all very dear
to the king.
Then said King Olaf, "What means that which Emund said about Atte the
Dull?"
None made any reply, but the one looked at the other.
"Speak freely," said the king.
Then said Thorvid the Stammerer,
"Atte--quarrel--some--greedy--jealous--deceitful--dull."
Then said the king, "To whom are these words of reproach and mockery
applied?"
Freyvid the Deaf replied, "We will speak more clearly if we have your
permission."