mmits, but over the down-sloping
hillsides
Flourished the golden corn, and man-high was waving the rye-
field."
TEGNER, _Frithiof Saga_ (Longfellow's tr.).

But although surrounded by faithful retainers, and blessed with much wealth
and the possession of the famous sword Angurvadel, the Voelund ring, and the
matchless dragon ship Ellida, Frithiof was unhappy, because he could no
longer see the fair Ingeborg daily. With the returning spring, however, all
his former spirits returned, for both kings came to visit him, accompanied
by their fair sister, with whom he lived over the happy childish years, and
spent long hours in cheerful companionship. As they were thus constantly
thrown together, Frithiof soon made known to Ingeborg his deep affection,
and received in return an avowal of her love.

"He sat by her side, and he pressed her soft hand,
And he felt a soft pressure responsive and bland;
Whilst his love-beaming gaze
Was returned as the sun's in the moon's placid rays."
TEGNER, _Frithiof Saga_ (Longfellow's tr.).

[Sidenote: Frithiof's suit.] When the visit was over and the guests had
departed, Frithiof informed his confidant and chief companion, Bjoern, of
his determination to follow them and openly ask for Ingeborg's hand. His
ship was prepared, and after a swift sail touched the shore near Balder's
shrine. Discerning the royal brothers seated in state on Bele's tomb to
listen to the petitions of their subjects, Frithiof immediately presented
himself before them, and manfully made his request, adding that the old
king had always loved him and would surely have granted his prayer.

"They were seated on Bele's tomb, and o'er
The common folk administered law.
But Frithiof speaks,
And his voice re-echoes round valleys and peaks.

"'Ye kings, my love is Ingborg fair;
To ask her in marriage I here repair;
And what I require
I here maintain was King Bele's desire.

"'He let us grow in Hilding's care,
Like two young saplings, year by year;
And therefore, kings,
Unite the full-grown trees with golden rings.'"
TEGNER, _Frithiof Saga_ (Spalding's tr.).

But although he promised lifelong fealty and the service of his strong
right arm in exchange for the boon he craved, Helge contemptuously
dismissed him. Enraged at the insult thus publicly received, Fr