They were banded together in great hordes, each ruled by a chieftain, who was called a _sea king_, because his dominions scarcely extended at all to the land.

His possessions, his power, his subjects pertained all to the sea.

It is true they built or bought their vessels on the shore, and they sought shelter among the islands and in the bays in tempests and storms; but they prided themselves in never dwelling in houses, or sharing, in any way, the comforts or enjoyments of the land.

They made excursions every where for conquest and plunder, and were proud of their successful deeds of violence and wrong.

It was honorable to enter into their service.