Yet it is likely that you are the only man whom I can set to do it." "If that is so, King Hakon, needs must I undertake it," I answered, lightly enough.
"It is a matter which was forced on you once; but now you shall have your choice whether you will undertake it with your free will or not." He spoke gravely, but his eyes had the light of a jest in them, and I had to smile.
"This sounds a terrible matter, King Hakon," said I."Let me know the worst of it." "Someone has to take Gerda back to her own place and turn out Arnkel for me.

Thereafter, he will have to hold the land for me quietly, and make ready for a rising for me if need is.

I think there will be little trouble, but I do not know what men of his own this Arnkel may have.

Will you do it ?" "Seeing that the care of a lady is in the matter, I will not, for shame's sake, say that I will do it with a light heart," I answered.

"But you could have asked me nothing more after my own mind.