THE HIGH ONE'S LAY.
of the precious mead; a bad recompense I afterwards made her, for her whole soul, her fervent love.
107. Rati's mouth I caused to make a space, and to gnaw the rock; over and under me were the Jotun's ways: thus I my head did peril.
108. Of a well-assumed form I made good use: few things fail the wise; for Odhrærir is now come up to men's earthly dwellings.
100. 'Tis to me doubtful that I could have come from the Jotun's courts, had not Gunnlod aided me. that good damsel, over whom I laid my arm.
110. On the day following came the Hrim-thursar, to learn something of the High One, in the High One's hall: after Bolverk they inquired, whether he with the gods were come, or Suttung had destroyed him?
11. Odin, I believe, a ring-oath[1] gave. Who in his faith will trust? Suttung defrauded, of his drink bereft, and Gunnlod made to weep!
112. Time 'tis to discourse from the preacher's chair. By the well of Urd I silent sat, I saw and meditated, I listened to men's words.
113. Of runes I heard discourse, and of things divine, nor of graving them were they silent, nor of sage counsels, at the High One's hall. In the High One's hall. I thus heard say:
114. I counsel thee, Loddfafnir, to take advice: thou wilt profit if thou takest it. Rise not at night, unless to explore, or art compelled to go out.
- ↑ In the pagan North oaths were taken on a holy ring or bracelet, as with us on the Gospels, a sacred ring being kept in the temple for the purpose.
