in Asgard, a great fortress,
which should be so strong that the Asas could rest safely behind its
walls, even if the Frost Giants should invade their city.

The next question was, Who should build this fortress?

None of the Asas knew of a likely architect, and while they were
discussing where one should be found, the horn of Heimdall rang out in
token of the approach of a stranger.

Out rushed the Asas, and there, in parley with Heimdall, stood a
gigantic figure with powerful limbs, on which the muscles stood out
like ropes of iron.

Heimdall was speaking sharply, for he did not altogether like the
stranger's look. "For what purpose do you come?" he was inquiring.

"I am a Master Builder," replied the stranger. "I can build towers and
forts more strongly than any other builder in all the world. Have you
anything of the kind that wants doing here?"

The eyes of the Asas met as they heard these words, and Odin, stepping
forward, said, "Can you build us a fortress so strong that not all the
strength of the Frost Giants could avail against it?"

"Ay, that can I," replied the stranger. "Look at my strong arms and
see the breadth of my chest. If you will set me to work you shall soon
find my worth as a Master Builder."

"How long will the fortress take to build?" asked Odin.

"I will build it for you in three half years," replied the stranger.

"And what do you ask as wages?" said Odin, and the Master Builder
answered promptly:

"You must give me the sun, the moon, and Freya for my wife."

At these words the Asas, who had been pressing forward to hear the
conference, fell back with muttered disapproval. For Freya was the
most beautiful maiden in Asgard, the joy and pride of the city, ever
young and ever fair; and the sun and moon were the light and life of
men in the world below. So they bade the Master Builder come again
next day, and meantime retired to their Council Hall to consider the
matter.

All-Father Odin was for sending the Builder promptly about his
business when he returned for their decision, but his brother Loki
counselled a different course.

Red Loki was a mischievous, sly fellow, full of wiles and deceit, and
always quick to suggest a way out of a difficulty. On this occasion
his plan was to allow the man to build the fortress, and to promise
him the terms demanded, but subject to the condition that he fulfilled
his task in a way that would be impossible for him fully to carry out.

His el