Earl Sigurd got the first intelligence of Erling's army, when it was
already near to the house. His men got up, and armed themselves; but not
knowing how many men Erling had with him, some were inclined to fly, but
the most determined to stand. Earl Sigurd was a man of understanding,
and could talk well, but certainly was not considered brave enough to
take a strong resolution; and indeed the earl showed a great inclination
to fly, for which he got many stinging words from his men-at-arms. As
day dawned, they began on both sides to draw up their battle array. Earl
Sigurd placed his men on the edge of a ridge between the river and the
house, at a place at which a little stream runs into the river. Erling
and his people placed their array on the other side of the river; but at
the back of his array were men on horseback well armed, who had the king
with them. When Earl Sigurd's men saw that there was so great a want
of men on their side, they held a council, and were for taking to the
forest. But Earl Sigurd said, "Ye alleged that I had no courage, but it
will now be proved; and let each of you take care not to fail, or fly,
before I do so. We have a good battle-field. Let them cross the bridge;
but as soon as the banner comes over it let us then rush down the hill
upon them, and none desert his neighbour."
Earl Sigurd had on a red-brown kirtle, and a red cloak, of which the
corners were tied and turned back; shoes on his feet; and a shield and
sword called Bastard. The earl said, "God knows that I would rather get
at Erling Skakke with a stroke of Bastard, than receive much gold."