Indeed, the most abode not even there a long while; for they loved
the wood and its deeds. So they went forth into the wood, and
cleared them space to dwell in, and builded them halls such as they
loved, and fell to their old woodland crafts of charcoal-burning and
hunting, wherein they throve well. And good for Silver-dale was
their abiding there, since they became a sure defence and stout
outpost against all foemen. For the rest, wheresoever they dwelt,
they were guest-cherishing and blithe, and were well beloved by all
people; and they wedded with the other Houses of the Children of the
Wolf.
As to the other matters whereof they took rede at this Folk-mote,
they had mostly to do with the warding of the Dale, and the learning
of the delivered thralls to handle weapons duly. For men deemed it
most like that they would have to meet other men of the kindred of
the Felons; which indeed fell out as the years wore.
Moreover, Folk-might (by the rede of Stone-face) sent messengers to
the Plain and the Cities, unto men whom he knew there, doing them to
wit of the tidings of Silver-dale, and how that a peaceful and guest-
loving people, having good store of wares, now dwelt therein, so that
chapmen might have recourse thither.
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