There would be nothing but turmoil in
the land so long as Eric reigned.
In the end these men passed their word not to try to escape, or to
plot here for Eric, until they went back with the ship to
Thrandheim, and so we had no more trouble with them. Thereafter two
joined Hakon, as I have heard, and the others were glad to bide
quietly and at least not hinder him; so we did well for the young
king.
When we had arranged thus with these men, I went to Asbiorn to
learn how he had bestowed Arnkel.
"He is down at the wharf," he answered. "Aye, on board the ship.
Maybe you had better come and see him."
"I do not know that I have aught to say to him," said I. "The man
is not worth a word. What do the townsfolk say of him?"
"They had a good deal to say," he answered. "Not what one would
call good words, either. There is no party on his side here, and
you will have naught but welcome on all hands. Nevertheless, come
down to the ship before you go to the guest house for the night. I
sleep on board."
"The people cannot hold you as in league with Arnkel now," I said.
"They will not molest you."
"They know that there is no league between us now, at all events,"
he answered, with a short laugh. "No, there will be no trouble of
any kind.
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