It was his hope that he might win Norway to the Christian faith, and, indeed, I think that he cared little for the crown if it might not give him power to that end.

He knew that in the long days of the homeward cruise both Gerda and I had been talking much with Father Phelim and the two English clergy, so that we could not be aught but friendly toward the faith, if not more.
"Stubborn are our Norse folk," he said, "and the work will be hard.
Maybe I shall do little, but someone else may take up the task which I mean to begin.

It must needs be begun at some time.

In that quiet place of Gerda's it is likely that men may listen peacefully, and so will be a centre whence one may hope much." Then I said, "So may it be, King Hakon; for this will be what Gerda wishes most of all things." "What of yourself then ?" he asked.
Bertric answered for me, and I was glad.
"Malcolm thinks likewise, for so he has told me.

But he will do nothing in haste.