And that was I fain of; for
they are wise and goodly men. But I deemed no more of those that I
saw there save as men who had been outlawed by their own folk for
deeds that were unlawful belike, but not shameful, and were biding
their time of return, and were living as they might meanwhile. But
of the whole Folk and their foemen knew I no more than ye did, till
two days agone, when I met them again in Shadowy Vale. Also I think
before long ye shall see their chieftain in Burgstead, for he hath a
word for us. Lastly, my mind it is that those brown-clad men who
helped Hall-face and his company in the wood were nought but men of
this Earl-kin seeking their foemen; for indeed they told me that they
had come upon a battle in the woodland wherein they had slain their
foemen. Now have I told you all that ye need to know concerning
these matters.'
Again was there silence as Iron-face sat pondering a question for his
son; then a goodman of the Upper Dale, Gritgarth to wit, spake and
said:
'Gold-mane mine, tell us how many is this folk; I mean their
fighting-men?'
'Well asked, neighbour,' said Iron-face.
Pages:
261
262
263
264
265
266
267
268
269
270
271
272
273
274
275
276
277
278
279
280
281
282
283
284
285