It may be a choice of two evils, but one cannot well meet with another Heidrek." "We must cut across their course and try to hail them," said Bertric, somewhat wearily.

"It all depends on how the boat sails on the wind, and if we can keep the oars going.

What say you, Queen Gerda ?" "Do as you think best," she answered bravely.

"I know how this boat can sail, and I will answer for her.

And I can see no sign of a break in these black cliffs for many a long mile ahead." Now Bertric turned and took a long look at the ships, and his face was half toward me.