"If any heed me, I pray you make what tale you can for me." "What can I say to you in thanks ?" she cried quickly, and letting go my hand which she yet held.

"If you are slain, it is my fault.
Tell me your name at least." "Ranald Vemundsson, a Northman of King Alfred's," I said.

"Now I am your servant--ever." Then Thora left my side suddenly, and ran forward to meet the foremost horseman--for they were close to us--calling aloud to Osmund to stay.

And he reined up and leaped from his horse with a cry of joy, and took her in his arms for a moment.
I got my cloak around me, pulling the hood over my helm, and stood in the shadow where I was.

I saw the jarl lift his daughter into the saddle, and the whole troop turned to go back.