CHAPTER 23.
In the castle of Sir Biorn of the Fiery Eyes, Christmas-eve had not passed so brightly and happily; but yet, there too all had gone visibly according to God's will.
Folko, at the entreaty of the lord of the castle, had allowed Gabrielle to support him into the hall; and the three now sat at the round stone table, whereon a sumptuous meal was laid.

On either side there were long tables, at which sat the retainers of both knights in full armour, according to the custom of the North.

Torches and lamps lighted the lofty hall with an almost dazzling brightness.
Midnight had now begun its solemn reign, and Gabrielle softly reminded her wounded knight to withdraw.

Biorn heard her, and said: "You are right, fair lady; our knight needs rest.

Only let us first keep up one more old honourable custom." And at his sign four attendants brought in with pomp a great boar's head, which looked as if cut out of solid gold, and placed it in the middle of the stone table.