But regard for the memory of Frode weighed most, and its sweetness gave Fridleif the balance of popularity.
Many wise men thought that a person of peasant rank should be removed from the sovereignty; since, contrary to the rights of birth, and only by the favour of fortune, he had reached an unhoped-for eminence; and in order that the unlawful occupant might not debar the rightful heir to the office, Fridleif told the envoys of the Danes to return, and request Hiarn either to resign the kingdom or to meet him in battle.

Hiarn thought it more grievous than death to set lust of life before honour, and to seek safety at the cost of glory.

So he met Fridleif in the field, was crushed, and fled into Jutland, where, rallying a band, he again attacked his conqueror.

But his men were all consumed with the sword, and he fled unattended, as the island testifies which has taken its name from his (Hiarno).

And so, feeling his lowly fortune, and seeing himself almost stripped of his forces by the double defeat, he turned his mind to craft, and went to Fridleif with his face disguised, meaning to become intimate, and find an occasion to slay him treacherously.
Hiarn was received by the king, hiding his purpose under the pretence of servitude.