Queen Astrid, who had been married to King Olaf the Saint, came to
Norway with King Magnus her stepson, as before related, and was held by
him deservedly in great honour and esteem. Then came also Alfhild,
King Magnus's mother, to the court, and the king received her with
the greatest affection, and showed her great respect. But it went with
Alfhild, as it does with many who come to power and honour, that pride
keeps pace with promotion. She was ill pleased that Queen Astrid was
treated with more respect, had a higher seat, and more attention.
Alfhild wanted to have a seat next to the king, but Astrid called
Alfhild her slave-woman, as indeed she had formerly been when Astrid was
queen of Norway and King Olaf ruled the land, and therefore would on no
account let her have a seat beside her, and they could not lodge in the
same house.