Nought have I brought save this mine axe; of all my belongings this remains alone.

They have divided my cattle; they have taken my wives; and my children know my face no more.
Yet with this axe' -- and he swung the formidable weapon round his head, making the air hiss as he clove it -- 'will I cut another path to fortune.

I have spoken.' I shook my head at him.

'Umslopogaas,' I said, 'I know thee from of old.

Ever ambitious, ever plotting to be great, I fear me that thou hast overreached thyself at last.