As may be supposed, we had been drawn together much during the voyage, partly as seamen, and also partly because Norseman and Saxon are kin, while the Irishman was almost as much a stranger to me as to Bertric.

Moreover, Dalfin was at home once more, and we were wanderers.

So I spoke plainly, not seeing any need to beat about the bush with this quiet friend, of whom I surely learnt so much in the long days of peril together.
"I have no plans beyond those I may make for the help of Gerda," I said.

"If your home does not call you maybe it is well for her." "There are none who will trouble much concerning me until the autumn," he answered.

"I am a free man in that matter, and it need not trouble you.