One had the oar ready for thrusting outboard, one stood by with his shield ready to protect the rower, and the other, standing in the midship gangway, had his bow ready.
Thrond came on board with the first, and leaped to the steering deck, where he grasped the tiller, paying no heed to me.

His eyes were on the lane end.

I got out of his way, and stood by the stern post, with my arm round the dragon tail.
For I saw nothing else to do but to keep quiet.

I did not know rightly whether honour compelled me to stay as a captive still, but I thought it did.

But if not, in one way I could have escaped; for I had been forgotten, and every man was watching the shore.