Erling Skakke replied thus to the king's speech: "It is my duty, sire,
not to be silent; and I shall give my advice, since it is desired.
The resolution now adopted is contrary to my judgment; for I call it
foolhardy to fight under these circumstances, although we have so many
and such fine men. Supposing we make an attack on them, and row up
against this river-current; then one of the three men who are in each
half room must be employed in rowing only, and another must be covering
with the shield the man who rows; and what have we then to fight with
but one third of our men? It appears to me that they can be of little
use in the battle who are sitting at their oars with their backs turned
to the enemy. Give me now some time for consideration, and I promise you
that before three days are over I shall fall upon some plan by which we
can come into battle with advantage."
It was evident from Erling's speech that he dissuaded from an attack;
but, notwithstanding, it was urged by many who thought that Hakon would
now, as before, take to the land. "And then," said they, "we cannot get
hold of him; but now they have but few men, and we have their fate in
our own hands."
Gregorius said but little; but thought that Erling rather dissuaded from
an attack that Gregorius's advice should have no effect, than that he
had any better advice to give.