The Rímur of Arnljótur, Champion of the Uplanders

Eleven rímur from 19th-century Iceland, telling the full saga of Arnljótur the Strong — grandson of Ásbjörn of Grœningi, champion of the Gauts, and reluctant ruler of Uppland. A cycle of youth and lineage, holmgang and alliance, sea-battle and borderland warfare, mercy and governance — ending not with a death-song but with a peaceful legacy.

Composed by Síra Snorri Björnsson (Rímur I–VI) and continued by an anonymous poet, likely 18th century (Rímur VII–XI). First published Copenhagen, 1842. Each ríma opens with a mansöngur (love-prelude) rich in mythological kennings before the narrative resumes. The meters shift across the cycle: ferskeytt (ABAB quatrains), couplets, three-line monorhyme — each chosen to match the emotional register of the content.

No prior English translation of any part of this cycle is known to exist. First English translation by the New Tianmu Anglican Church rímur translator lineage — eighteen translators across one day of lineage time.

Fyrsta Ríma

Mansöngur

1.
Freyja's flame still feeds
both hawks of the Riding God;
the mind thinks soon to grasp
the Victory-Lord's ancient prey.

2.
Nowhere can the voice be stilled,
though Formóður's wound resounds,
before the fullness of the sound's inheritance
has propped up poetry in the hall.

3.
When temperament compels the folk,
so that thought surpasses speech,
the ancient good payment of Fíli
gladdens the hall of the heart.

4.
May the gentlest breeze of Ýma
calm the heroes and the stars;
Gísur's horn clears sorrow —
the poet's guard against all hindrance.

5.
Therefore shall the Third One's wave flow,
breaking the throat's deep silence,
at Bifur's ancient wells,
and may those who wish find shelter.

6.
The hallowed coolness of Þrauðr's vessel
to us who break the tarn-spark's gleam —
the health of poetry's abundance
we eagerly wish for those who listen.

7.
The string of far-flung songs resounds,
enlivened from the stream of death;
may Framatýr's fair singing
let Fjalar receive the verse.

8.
Abundance heaped on every side,
a sudden radiance from the locks;
the kindled fires of rejoicing
honored with the hearth's fair poems.

9.
We shall draw this thread meanwhile,
a portion of manly valor —
let the folk be wakeful and alert
in the perch-lion's hall.

10.
My mouth, that gentle-mannered mill,
grinds upon the wheels of counsel,
often dipped in Mímir's wine,
poured from the seats of answers.

The Tale Begins

11.
The beginning of the tale now rises
from the age of former men —
one famous noble, wise,
who won the keeping of the lands.

12.
Ólafur the Holy, Harald's son,
held the realm of Norway.
No greater lord of generosity
dispensed the serpent's resting-place.

13.
He spread his kingdom far and wide
with the truth of the true faith,
from the Fiend's delusions freed —
so the king acknowledged.

14.
Five petty kings the lord subdued,
he who was accustomed to the sword;
in one morning he caught them all
and took them into his hands.

15.
Their rule across the Uplands all
under his power he brought.
The bold nation accepts the peace,
for they themselves had asked for it.

16.
At Grœningi was a great farm,
where worthy champions held counsel.
Ásbjörn was the name of that ox-thunder —
a wall against all evil.

17.
A champion generous with wealth,
his valor never lessened;
to him came common goodwill,
fortune and every kind of fame.

18.
The title of farmer he bore, yet he —
that breaker of Sif's bright hair —
had honor dwell beside him,
paid with the clearest respect.

19.
A mighty feast the powerful lord
received there from his hand.
King Ólafur in return
rewards him, as expected.

20.
Over the district the prince now let
Ásbjörn rule as lord —
for so the appointment was ordained
when one receives authority.

21.
The name and rights of a landed man
the chieftain receives to govern,
elevated to a higher station
as was deemed most fitting.

22.
Rewarded with gold and woven treasure,
the bold man the famous king honored.
To Þrándheim then he went back home
and his journeys were accomplished.

23.
In the Uplands, noble-hearted,
a friend to princes thence,
quietly on his farm and married,
he chose a gentle honor for himself.

24.
He had two sturdy sons,
that giver of Tirfing's flame.
Þorfinnur, with chosen battle-sorrow,
was the younger one's name.

25.
The elder born was Arnljótur,
on whom fortune showed its signs —
a champion of surpassing deeds,
surnamed the Strong.

26.
He won renown through all his days,
the dear hero, tirelessly.
Great and fearsome deeds he wrought,
loosing warriors from their shields.

27.
Until at last he found death's need,
covered thick with fame and praise.
With Ólafur the Holy he
fell at Stiklestad.

28.
Þorfinnur took his father's homestead
when pale death seized its power.
Ásbjörn the farmer left this life,
his grip never failing.

29.
Married with full honors he sat,
that presser of the dale-woman's ice,
the faithful and the just he loved
on the ancestral land at Grœningi.

30.
One heir the famous farmer had,
that stately yeoman, brave.
The boy bore his father's brother's
honored name, and gladly.

31.
Rich in name and bright in deed,
though he bore a wise disposition —
all held him for a champion
who had few equals.

32.
Tall and fair, strong and cheerful,
a streaming light he was.
In virtue the spear-god delighted,
that excellent son of Þorfinnur.

33.
With father and mother he grew,
the sun of the mead-hall's lintel,
until he chose to increase by will
his vigor, strength, and power.

34.
Beloved of the people, unconquered —
that famous heritage.
It is said that Þorfinnur
died there, not yet old.

35.
Then the farmer's son took charge
of the estate after the death.
Young Arnljótur now held
the red serpent's bed.

36.
This shaker of the speech-tree,
great power he is said to have held —
a lord generous with his wealth
in the eastern realm of Gautland.

Hákon the Stout

37.
Hákon the Stout was named,
the handler of the serpent-ring.
His fame and treasure-hoard
surpassed what others bore.

38.
The trusty one lacked not for wit,
and often he checked evil counsel.
He was the son, the records tell,
of Hákon the Old.

39.
At Þringtín was his homestead,
where the farmer sat in state.
With bright gold he was splendid —
the wise champion of renown.

40.
He had one daughter only,
the woman of the Dovrefjell songs,
and a rare beauty she possessed —
fairer he saw there none.

41.
She who loosens the fire of the eel
inherited virtue's ways.
Ólof she was named — the noble one,
so beautifully adorned.

42.
The wise ones held, all people's tongues
agreed in their opinion,
that this maiden of renown
was a queenly woman.

43.
Her father loved his bright flame
as best he could, with virtue,
in a fatherly way, in memory's keeping,
as greatly as could be.

44.
In Gautland at that time
a Viking band roamed about
that hard-pressed called for Hildr's meeting,
to settled men great trouble.

45.
Against the farmers ran aggression —
a berserk band was rampaging,
and a knave full of every wrong
was captain of their number.

46.
Ótryggur was the sluggard-ghost's name;
he hated every virtue.
No sharpened edges of any sword
could bite upon the berserk's skull.

47.
On spear-points for his sport,
the furious one would throw himself,
so fearless that he stood upright
and banished every dread.

48.
For plunder and for women,
the swollen villain challenged farmers.
They received shame from the raging one —
none dared to oppose him.

49.
Ótryggur to the chieftain's home —
Hákon the Stout's — he comes.
Grimly the farmer he commands
to swift weapon-dance.

50.
Otherwise he must the young maid
Ólof give to him;
his concubine that headband-woman
should become, beyond all doubt.

51.
Half a month's time he gives,
the villain, for the holmgang,
until the honored warrior
of sharp-edged swords should face him.

52.
Full of years, the chieftain could not
trust himself against the villain.
Loki's foster-child of trickery
had loosed the chieftain's power.

53.
He challenged many a shield-tree
to wide-field battle against him,
but no known champion dared
to raise a spear against the wretch.

The Counsel of Ólof

54.
When no hawk of Odin's counsel
could rise up any longer,
the fairest silk-dressed lady
goes to meet her father.

55.
"It is firmly in my mind, dear lord,
chieftain known to me,
that to Grœningi you should send
word without delay.

56.
"One lives there strong of purpose,
young, cheerful, and sturdy.
He will carve the battle-field —
such a champion, brave.

57.
"That bold man will, however,
seek a reward for his own hands:
to marry the fair maiden
of the bright speech-ground.

58.
"This you must be willing to grant.
The man is fair and fine —
so swiftly shall the villain
be laid low in death."

59.
Hákon sent both letter and word,
with the ringing of broken rings,
that Arnljótur, guardian of the Gauts
in Mímir's woven land, be found.

60.
He told of all his trials,
how joy had been reduced.
The strong hero was stirred by this
and set himself at once to travel.

61.
To test himself in danger
his spirit was compelled.
With the messengers he departed —
the man rises to the road.

The Bargain

62.
The hero came to the chieftain's home;
the field of his heart brightened.
Graciously that noble man
the people received in full.

63.
Hákon rejoiced without delay,
and praised the sword-tree's coming.
There was then a single day
remaining before the holmgang.

64.
Yet anxiety gripped the champion's heart,
aching in his mind's own house —
what if the knave should fell the youth
and he should know pale death?

65.
Arnljótur asks Hákon aloud
what he would grant the one
who fells the peace-breaker
when battle is to begin.

66.
"For his head I have set a bounty,"
says Hákon, "laid in store.
A mark of silver is that treasure
which you from me may take."

67.
"For silver I thirst the least,"
spoke the bold wound-serpent.
"For your wealth I will not surely
wager my own life."

68.
"Your daughter, that noble lady,
I shall win, if I must go
against the trickster
to the holmgang island."

69.
"Otherwise, find another man
to fight against Ótryggur."
Hákon the Stout speaks then:
"Neither shall you lack."

70.
"The serpent-pillow's fair treasure
I pledge to you in faith,
so that our agreement, wisely sealed,
shall not be mixed with lies."

71.
The strong hero prepared for battle.
His spirit drove his purpose.
Here shall Gunnr's bark
wait within the boathouse.

72.
The Scylding's ale is drunk,
the sound-hunter is exhausted.
You may turn back to your rest
if your people so demand.

Önnur Ríma

Mansöngur

1.
Odin's cup a second time
I raise and set before you;
pour out here, if you intend,
this wine of verse to learn.

2.
If the hound of gold and the gloss-keeper's ground —
the folk-arts' deep foundation —
each upon its own side comforts me
and keeps me toward the good.

3.
There is no hold on Viðrir's maiden;
honor the river Úsa's running —
the thread of verse runs flat from me
when learning and memory dry.

4.
Old age so enfeebles life's spirit,
no poem can be fashioned;
it is a blight on every branch
when verses mix with folly.

5.
Sanngétall spoke, that cunning summit,
to his ancient arts of old:
no craft of skill is grasped by any man
who will not bind his verse in fiords.

6.
He stirred within wisdom's hall,
his strength was bound to grow;
for this purpose, for fellowship's sake,
he beguiled Suttungr's daughter.

7.
The best of those who found wisdom,
as Mímir's wood could know it,
drew the ring before the cool pool's bath,
from the well of memory's fountain.

8.
All this — nothing hidden, nothing false —
fell from the Head-Rune's store;
on my own verse I must rely
and save myself for now.

The Holmgang

9.
Now to the saga I would turn:
Valgautr's battle-trees
make ready with the trembling shield
straight for the island-meeting.

10.
Ótryggur demands, greatly angered —
that helm-tester of the appointed bout —
whether strokes shall fall for the chieftain's hand,
whether the metal-shaker wills to fight.

11.
"So it is," the champion spoke,
"I have come to test my life against yours.
On his behalf am I here —
the blade shall make you stone."

12.
"Strike then," the other declared,
"upon my head, with your leave;
soon you shall see whether it is true
that I bend the sword's edge."

13.
Arnljótur, with swift purpose,
raised the slender brand;
he struck as hard as any man could,
straight upon the skull at once.

14.
The blow fell thick as upon a cliff —
Kvernbitr's edges shattered;
yet from nostrils and from jaw
the gore of both men shook loose.

15.
The hero turned and nowhere halted
when he felt the blade had broken;
he seized the weapon with hawk-grip
and sent it high into the air.

16.
Down upon the head he drove,
he began to wrench with fury;
through shoulders strong with fortune's might
he forced the skull to split.

17.
Death's toll amid the tumult —
few will grieve his passing;
that raging fool lost his life,
the wretch, most hideously.

18.
When his companions saw the truth,
none wished to linger there;
all away with cowardly haste
those frightened wretches rode.

The Champion's Fame

19.
Of Arnljótur's might and noble daring
the folk could tell at length;
of such a man of mark as he
great sagas they did spin.

20.
All the Gauts' assemblies praised
the welcome death of Ótryggur;
they offered the champion noble gifts,
fair burdens for his horse.

The Wedding

21.
Word spread without reproach
throughout the Gauts' dominion;
Hákon summons wedding songs
and bids the guests to feast.

22.
The wedding guests are fed their fill,
the cup-bearer pours most well;
the tears of horns flow down in streams,
the company drinks most fast.

23.
After that the folk depart,
all accepting gifts;
for the joyful meeting and the bride's fair hand
all offered blessings.

24.
The goodman readies his daughter at once,
away with the womanly radiance,
to the Uplands without delay —
bounty followed the journey.

25.
They settled into their home now,
together at Groeningi;
love sprang up and joy shone bright,
nothing weighed them down.

The Political Struggle

26.
At this time, the joyful land
is told a ruler held power:
Magnus, called the Good by the peoples,
governed smoothly in Norway's realm.

27.
He found Arnljótur the foremost,
foreman of the Uplanders;
and set him, as time went on,
to lead the district assemblies.

28.
Taxes he collected and tributes
he sent to Norway's ruler;
at all times in a spirit of love,
until the nobleman's life reached its end.

29.
Sveinn Ulfsson, who was never slow —
a prince of Danish fields —
at that time in every way
claimed the Uplands for his own.

30.
Likewise the ruler of Sweden's realm,
he who bore Onundur's name,
wished to trouble the Uplands
and all the Gauts' districts.

31.
These two lords then sat together
upon this very matter;
they set their plans for confederation,
steering their westward swords.

Hergils the Tax Collector

32.
Hergils is the name he bore,
known wide as Offa's kinsman;
he meant to crush the people there —
the district's peace grew sour.

33.
All tax he bound by oath,
not for the king of Sweden;
the chieftain who ruled over the Danes
exacted ever new demands.

34.
If the people's band refused this oath,
from this wealth of spite,
he would seize the tolls by force,
often from unwilling farmers.

35.
An evil spirit, fox-like sly,
often roiled the districts;
he made the lords waste their gold
and stirred up broken truces.

36.
The Uplanders held a thing,
one assembly among the people;
Arnljótur stood firm in opposition —
he would not pay the taxes.

37.
"No other man," he declared,
"ought to receive the tribute,
save he who owns and may
govern all of Norway."

38.
Good praise with acclamation
the farmers gave to him,
and agreed to this, so freely too,
before the gathered assembly.

39.
Hergils sees his cause diminish —
Arnljótur's defense is stronger;
he rode against with wasp-like threats,
with words of hatred nearing.

40.
He said he feared not at all
the Uplanders' champion:
"My courage and your stubbornness
shall come to close quarters."

41.
With menace the metal-god went forth,
away from the district's meeting,
homeward through the boasting ford,
preparing deception's work.

42.
He strove to make many men
turn against Arnljótur;
all in secret, for his intent was ill —
in wool they wrapped the venom.

43.
He asked about the man's movements,
shaking rings to bribe another:
when the famous man's people
went about their business.

The Night Attack

44.
He took for himself two dozen men
and four more besides;
then, as fiercely as he could,
he urged them on toward the fight.

45.
He came by night when the household
was bound in dreams, asleep,
to the homestead laden with treachery,
cloaked in virtue's curse.

46.
In the dim hall, in weary sleep,
he lay beside his proud wife;
they pressed in there, for they knew it —
the prey, they thought, was in their hands.

47.
Now they wished, those faithless men,
to bring tar and fire;
Hergils says: "That does not please me —
such folly you shall not do."

48.
"There is wealth enough within,
riches more than enough;
therefore we shall not harm the maid —
the doomed man alone we'll drag out."

49.
"Here is the plan that's been devised —
in vengeance we'll be measured:
we'll cast stones and break the door,
and take the goodman by the hands."

50.
Stones then flew against the doorpost —
they pressed their assault well;
against the door-panels they bore timbers
and broke the barriers wide.

51.
He heard the strife and woke to it,
that warrior known among weapons;
he dressed himself and feared no whit,
that strong tree of swords.

52.
The weapon-tree who shakes the hall —
to the archers little known —
he caught in the air their elm-showers oft,
all that they sent toward him.

53.
The assault in force was not withheld;
they thrust at him from every side.
He defended with all his might in the weapon-storm
against the warriors' onslaughts.

54.
The wise spear — that kindling of Tyr —
he wielded and guarded well;
he would defend his hall against the host.
One may well admire such a man.

55.
When the hero saw the foam
spraying from their mouths, he spoke:
"It is clear now to all here —
you are outmatched, wretches."

56.
"Come help us now — you must halt!"
cried out Skrimni's broken folk;
"for it is hopeless, however Hergils rages —
he shall have no victory to celebrate."

57.
Their position at the battle-site grew dire,
their hopes filled with sorrow;
red-stained warriors lay there fallen,
slain among Hergils' men.

58.
My unsaid verse shall here find rest —
glory falls from mighty words;
the wine of meeting I have shown,
and the thorn of speech runs dry.

Þriðja Ríma

Mansöngur

1.
Fjalar's gift once more I strive to wield,
a third time now, if the nations still
recall the name of Ásvarar.

2.
I, unlearned, attempt the people's glory
with a halting, rough-tongued speech —
all will say it is worthless craft.

3.
Nothing is set down; all day long I find
Odin's mead troubled and hard to hold —
a trial it is to work with such hereafter.

4.
The old wave-lord is no friend to poets;
the Son of the Sea grants me nothing —
often he makes great trouble for a man.

5.
As once of old when Útgarðar's warden,
cunning in wiles, defended himself
against the wayfaring Ása-Thór.

6.
Bjálfi's father, the farmer of Nóatún —
sorely costly was that marrow,
and to me, Sigtýr's wedding-drink.

7.
I would not buy the vessel's running cup
for my highest rising —
I trust in the clearest reckoning.

8.
Ullr's anger sets the western paths alight;
most, Steinballur brews the mead —
to me, Þríðhallur seldom comes.

9.
What shall I say? I cannot help but speak —
for a time the mind wears me thin,
though the tale often grows to might.

10.
My blossom barely blooms in empty hours;
the cold cup sits idle by itself
when the tale has lost its strength.

11.
The dwarves' famed drink I bring now to an end —
alone stood Arnljótur, the champion,
fighting well though drenched in sweat.

12.
Dead men lie like limp carcasses;
Hergils draws near once more and cries:
"Victory — we cannot yet claim it!"

13.
Ill fortune and ruin's shame are lent us;
our weapons break before him wide —
we, death-sick, must suffer such blows.

14.
Bear your shields, stout spear-breakers!
With law-right arms let us take this man —
so we shall bring about his death.

15.
All at once let us rush the man in the storm!
He cannot withstand us all —
shield-trees, let us press the attack!

16.
All men then together charged forward;
Ólof bore out bundled cloth
upon spears and upon the linen wraps.

17.
A hooked spear then struck him in the foot —
the shaft carved clean through the calf,
and blood gushed forth in a rain of gore.

18.
From the wound he drew the burst-open shaft
and hurled it back among the warriors there —
he who stood before it fell dead.

19.
This the worthy thane must witness:
cruelty crept through his heart,
through every nerve and fibre of his spirit.

20.
Forward from the press he waded down amid the fray;
the hero dealt his stroke upon the spot —
Hergils raised the brand against him.

21.
Down across both shoulders the sword carved,
ripping open breast and belly and gut —
the body lost its hold on life.

22.
Scavenging vultures circle mound and marsh;
the falcon found its prey at last —
the bold man ended with his deed.

23.
The fearless hero slays at once
two more who still had raised their spears —
know then that they too were killed.

24.
The rest fled from that hellish place,
for those evil men were greatly frightened —
clad in wounds they soon were wrapped.

25.
When the grief of battle had been stayed,
the champion cheered the gathered folk —
the weary strife was put to rest.

26.
He tended the woman as best he could;
the bloodied one she managed to bind —
and so the healing came to her swiftly.

27.
The people thought the thane fought well in battle;
his fame swiftly spread across the land,
and the settlement's tales confirmed it.

28.
This news spread abroad in every direction;
likewise the lords and chieftains asked
about the hero's warlike prowess.

29.
At the Swedish king's seat the tidings sat badly,
for he had lost Hergils there —
the slain one had visited death's hall.

30.
Vengeance stirs; the enslaved mind broods on the guilty —
whenever he might contrive
to bring him down to death's own seat.

31.
One was called Hringur, a warlike slinger,
outlawed by Önundur
and a robber of famous name.

32.
Across the wide ocean's warlike paths,
to him, the mightiest upon the waves,
the Swedish king sent his summons.

33.
He offers a settlement so no strife need cost —
he restored Hringur's right to land
if he could steer things at the assembly.

34.
And let the Uplands' matter also stand;
he renounced all claims to tribute there
once the obligations were fulfilled.

35.
Vengeance shall be stirred against the fierce guilty one —
Arnljótur, who cut down Hergils —
Hringur laughed when he heard the message.

36.
The warfare eased; he settled himself to this
and headed for the Uplands
on such terms as the king had bade.

37.
Still more the spear-wielder hears of spears:
the worthy heir of Ólafr died —
for that there is hardly any cure.

38.
Magnús the Good, the gentle lord of nations, passes;
friends weep truly for him,
accustomed to his fair governance.

39.
But Haraldr, bold as a sea-troll's lord, took power —
in his stead he took the throne again,
though it was not an equal match.

40.
The trusted men of settled districts
found that king to be cold —
the apple-tree of the cliff lay heavy.

41.
Arnljótur grieves, anxious and heavy in thought,
that the noble prince has fallen away —
wondrous great was that loss.

42.
On Haraldr's account, in that mighty reign,
the brave champion would not stand —
it was hard to escape their demands.

43.
Therewith Hringur learned of the scheme in place;
the king set his forces in motion —
stern was the counsel the ruler gave.

44.
One is called Steinar, a stern biter of blows —
Steinar often leads, as is the case;
of him it is told, and here he is named.

45.
From silver and gold in full abundance,
the wealthiest of guardians earned his keep —
the raven's wrathful one so reckoned.

46.
To this one he gave his trust and charge;
the hero entrusted his chief estate —
to him was given the veiled power.

47.
To Gautland eastward the boldest journeyed
with great wealth and a bridge of treasure —
not quietly did he go to raise his cause.

48.
It seemed to the swift men of the troop, to all,
that the man would be sorely missed
if the wise one must be lost from thence.

49.
Now well the trusted brave one received
his bride from the hand of his kin —
greatest seemed the fine honour.

50.
Beside the gold-bold one he long remained,
honoured, wrapped in festive raiment —
nearest friends attended still.

51.
At Grœningi the gold-weigher rules;
fortune grows with household and retinue —
Steinar provides goods and dwelling.

52.
Hringur heard these tidings lightly:
that Arnljótur had departed far —
quickly he laid his plan.

53.
He found Steinar — the trick was not slow —
he drove the owner from his place
and took the farm for himself.

54.
The noble one claimed he owned the estate's
ancestral might, property and hall
on account of the slain tax-collector.

55.
Steinar, silent, stern with stifled fury,
greatly burdened, drawn with weariness —
the gold-lord was brought to grief.

56.
The unwary one saw no path to mercy
against the violent viking —
and so Hringur held the property.

57.
Arnljótur hears swiftly — the wise one, thin with care —
of the robber's trick and shame;
if only Hringur's theft could be undone.

58.
The steel-lord therefore took the matter up
very carefully, opposing it,
multiplying his refusal every way.

59.
The more that one shakes spears in arms,
the more he stands his ground and answers —
so amid violent trials.

60.
He had no longer any narrower road;
he knew the matter wisely for himself,
yet the wise steel-wielder is still robbed.

61.
Away from there he departed unhappy;
Steinar, slack, lingered in the Uplands —
Arnljótur sat beside his kin.

62.
Words can barely squeeze a drop from sweeping;
dry is this bowl of verse —
the old tongue falls silent, the tale is done.

Fjórða Ríma

Mansöngur

I.
The honor of Rómr runs from its rest to compose verse,
would display its worth —
Örvandill's foremost vessel gleams.

II.
The swan of Gunnarr's kin takes to wandering,
never at rest when the spirit wakes —
ever seeking the prey's ford.

III.
He roams from the sleeping shores of Gomer's sound,
and he is mad too, as we reckon —
his ramblings are not worth our heed.

IV.
The memory of departed heroes fades in the full valleys,
the greedy mask-wearer falls —
the day swallows all remembrance.

V.
The glow of the ruler's art fades without ceasing,
the sun sets upon the sagas of song —
the flame of Óðrerir grows dim to me.

VI.
Against the mighty father's speech I do not strive,
nor push him from the horn —
though Hnikarr's cool eagle brings me chills.

VII.
O you dear honored friends of our verse!
I know you hold a dwelling among the gods —
honoring Valgautr's cool-edged art.

VIII.
May the power of arts from living springs enliven you!
So that every gift of nature
may banish what would destroy delight.

Narrative

IX.
I left off where the sword-wielder dwelt at home,
by the quiet fire of the angelica —
beside Hákon in Gautland.

X.
One day the renowned hero readies himself for the homeward journey;
with a companion upon the road,
the farmer speaks to him:

XI.
"Whither will you ride, famous man?" he asks the company.
"To the Uplands, to settle the matter —
it is fixed in my resolve."

XII.
"I wish to find my friends and close kinsmen."
"That is not advisable," said the wise man,
"much stands against this plan."

XIII.
"Unless you bring a stout company befitting a chieftain."
"That shall not happen," says the wolf of Óðinn's surf,
"not at this time."

XIV.
"I will not have Hríngur boast that I have fled,
nor that I ride in dread before him —
let no man hear that I rode afraid."

XV.
He set out, and nowhere did the swift one slacken his pace
until he found Steinar at home —
shortening the horse-weary road.

XVI.
Slowly the thanes become aware of his coming;
Arnljótur the farmer is warmly received —
all due honor is strengthened.

XVII.
Word came that Hríngur was truly present
at a feast with a certain farmer,
girded in Vífiur's pure fire.

XVIII.
The hero had the horse saddled and quickly rode out,
heading straight and not halting
until he reached where Hríngur sat drinking.

XIX.
Into the hall he strides boldly, where warriors were drinking;
they recognized the shaker of swords —
and some men's spirits quaked.

XX.
Arnljótur the bold raised his voice so the hall could hear:
"Hríngur, know that I entrusted
the homestead to Steinar alone.

XXI.
"Yet you have enriched yourself from his property,
driven him out like a robber,
and broken the peace of a worthy man.

XXII.
"Now set right what you dealt in shame;
my sole counsel is this above all —
that is my chief errand to you."

XXIII.
Wrath-driven, Hríngur rose to answer:
"Is it your right, wolf of wreaths,
to challenge me with your words?

XXIV.
"Presumptuously bold you are, bag of sins —
a single outlaw, evil hound!
Fierce shall this meeting prove."

XXV.
"Steeper trials have I proved
in the crash of shields
than matching tricks with you amid the blades.

XXVI.
"Though you call yourself tough, you false knave,
your insolence you cannot restrain —
therefore it shall go ill for you."

XXVII.
He bids his men to wield the sword
and seize the spear-shaker with their hands —
to hang him on the gallows and bind him with ropes.

XXVIII.
The worthy champion calmly draws his blade from the strife
and strikes Hríngur down to the ground —
there the tree of points knelt dead.

XXIX.
Some wished to stir up strife and avenge the fallen,
eager to begin the fight —
but the hearts of others quailed.

XXX.
"Sit still," said the renowned hero of honor,
"I threaten you no harm
if you oppose me in nothing."

XXXI.
With this matter settled, they counseled and made way;
the champion did not long remain —
he rode away from there on horseback.

XXXII.
He found Steinar and bade him return home:
"Hríngur has made his last threat —
the enmity against you is ended."

XXXIII.
He gave gifts to worthy men, who guarded the wealth,
recovered his own property thereafter,
and restored honor to those who had suffered.

XXXIV.
The generous man turned homeward again;
joyfully Hákon welcomes him —
the promises of the sagas are fulfilled.

XXXV.
Hákon speaks: "Now Hríngur shall
no more trouble you with false terrors —
it went well that the scoundrel met his fate."

XXXVI.
For a time the warrior sat in peace,
the lord granting him honor —
his renown spread through all the districts.

XXXVII.
Önundur heard too that Hríngur's life was torn away;
little of it, he thought, was mended —
he sought a reckoning by the bright waters.

XXXVIII.
The leader must muster his forces, for the falcon screams;
he will now rouse his host to march —
the gleam of war stays restless at home.

XXXIX.
Both kinsmen sat together in the hall;
Arnljótur at one point spoke:
"There is a question in my mind."

XL.
"What does it mean — I wish to know —
this great mound in the green field
that stands here outside the farm?"

XLI.
"Late in the evenings I often see,
as if a fire burns there —
or that great men lie buried within."

XLII.
"From ancient books I have heard," said Hákon gladly,
"of one called Haddur the King,
renowned in former times.

XLIII.
"He was the son of Haddur the Old, who ruled the realm;
Hadeland was named for him,
as wide as the king's power reached.

XLIV.
"Two Haddings the king begot with his fair bride,
great in Viðrir's wealth —
both were warrior-kings.

XLV.
"Against King Efati, lord of helm and shield,
they fought in the rain of swords —
both were slain by him.

XLVI.
"Haddinga-Efati he was afterward called, that king —
powerful and generous in his dynasty,
rightful sustainer of thanes and estates.

XLVII.
"Haddur once warred upon the eastern lands;
he came ashore here in autumn
and died from sickness on the wave-beaten shore.

XLVIII.
"A high mound was raised over the dead king,
with treasure beyond telling —
and he sits there as a draugr ever since."

XLIX.
Arnljótur felt the urge, though he kept silent;
in the hall of thought he set his mind
to break the mound by deed before long.

L.
The steadfast one prepared his strength,
a brave man dwelling at his side —
Hákon's trusted counselor.

LI.
Bardi was his name, born hardy;
one late night
Arnljótur summoned him to ride.

LII.
They walked to the dreaded mound, and the shield-shaker
revealed his plan to Bardi —
Bardi was not pleased by this.

LIII.
Against it the warrior spoke and protested —
but what was willed went forward,
as the guardian of sun's treasure wished.

LIV.
Working mightily at hard labor,
the hero has the mound broken open —
that toil lasted long through the nights.

LV.
Both strong masters of might stood firm against the task;
with great effort the fair men
broke through the mound at last.

LVI.
Arnljótur bade Bardi hold fast and wait;
he sank alone into the mound —
courage and strength sustain the champion.

LVII.
Deep was the mound to its floor, the hero found,
all the ancient doors within,
the gates and hasps barred fast.

LVIII.
Much foulness and darkness filled the ancient hall;
the hero was able to kindle a light —
but the mead of Kjalar has run dry.

LIX.
The cups of Fjölnir are drained, come to their end;
I let the stanza stand —
the strife of verse breathes its last.

Fimta Ríma

Mansongur

I.
The gift of the Found-One's meeting I seek —
I speak a while for the wise.
The ground of the grove opens its wave
for the peoples of the gods' assembly.

II.
The reckoning of the shield-words grows old,
ground upon the ancient millstones.
The chosen falcon of Brimir sings,
bearing tales to eager men.

III.
Sigtryggr's word comes to me:
the swan of the warrior's spirit —
if every mead-horn stood here now,
the good one would think to leave.

IV.
If Armodr's fire should stray about,
vanishing from the joy-stream's sight —
homeward the trial-road runs,
cast home and fading.

V.
The gold of joy's grief and mead
heaps upon the mountains of Gridr.
Fortune's snow-bright edge sharpens all
and refreshes the cup of men.

VI.
The ale of Odrerir fails on the tongue,
stirring the hidden ones awake.
This is no jest — this steely verse
drives all wavering thought to ruin.

VII.
Love's gleam, unclouded green,
both wit and honor's fortune —
the blossom dances in this fair room
and draws the flower to beauty.

VIII.
From Odin's floor, where whirlwinds spin,
the faithful one finds peace.
All is better than I could wish.
May this prove your measure.

IX.
No man-song's dance do I wish
to press on gleaming ears.
The saga's pause, the tale's halt —
they burn the common heart.

Narrative

X.
Where the treasure-lord's hall swallowed the horn-steed,
where the glowing torch had died —
the champion with courage kindled a light
and the tinder bowed to smoke.

XI.
The swollen dead man sat upon a throne,
that one from the serpent's lair.
Rhine-gold shone from the dead man's hoard
and drove off all faint resolve.

XII.
Broadly girded with a belt,
wound-needles at his sides,
a gold band round the forehead's place
in Geirladar's stern domain.

XIII.
The land of fingers — foul with death —
was mixed with fair gold rings.
A chain of Svafnir's sand
stretched tightly round the neck.

XIV.
Ring-serpent chains hung all about him,
the gleam of finger-gold,
the jingling assembly of dead treasure
and the bloom of Dumbr's verse.

XV.
Swollen and dry, stiff as a post,
bordered with unseemly filth —
the gold-greedy wretch stooped low
and gaped above his hoard.

XVI.
Ugly, the brow cut wide,
a bitter dread to see —
the eyes slid in their metal sockets
and he seemed mightily enraged.

XVII.
That hero of the hall resolved
to test the barrow-dweller's hoard.
He tamed his fear and held to faith
and brought himself now to the treasure.

XVIII.
When the draugr, crouched in the mound,
was boldly stripped of his rings —
hatred crept into every sinew
and he hurled himself up for the blow.

XIX.
In a grapple with the mound-breaker
the blackened one drove his fists.
The bold hero seized the stout fiend
and took the blow head-on.

XX.
The terror of spears gripped the fiend's back,
pinned against the hall of the mound.
To lie beneath the angry dead,
he would not — I think not.

XXI.
The ground shook at their meeting.
Fjolnir's maiden rides above.
The heathen thunderer battered for a time,
the sword-grove yielding nothing.

XXII.
Bardi suffered shaking terror,
bound fast in dread above.
He heard from below the mound's midst
and thought the peace was gone.

XXIII.
In his mind the terror burned —
he thinks the man is dead.
He ran in flight from his post,
wishing to escape the doom.

XXIV.
As time passed, his purpose burned.
He held his ground below.
Strength's fury cut blow upon blow,
and the account would be settled.

XXV.
The arrow-storm turned back
upon the mound-thing's earth.
The draugr's defense was silent now.
The dead one saw the end.

XXVI.
Still the tale of Odin's flood must flow —
the foundations held fast within.
Both were gripped in the mound's fury,
and both took their share of shaking.

XXVII.
The hero tightened his grip and seized
at the treasure's cracking.
He drove the dead one back upon his back —
the worst of punishments fell.

XXVIII.
Upon the neck he broke the heathen wretch —
the brave one took delight in that.
Against the stout hero fell
the head, torn from the foul one.

XXIX.
This alone is the tale's report:
he saw there frames aslant,
and tested the slain one's bared bones —
terribly foul to look upon.

XXX.
Treasures of great worth were there
and Odin's swords in circles.
Nothing else had been spared
from their ancient tangling.

XXXI.
He went and secured it all —
found there cloth and riches.
The worthy man with haste
raised himself up with a plan.

XXXII.
All the jingling treasure from the mound's heart
he knew how to sling above.
He laid these things in a ring
there at the barrow-door.

XXXIII.
No one he saw above, stirring,
nor any warrior standing guard.
Back into the mound the man went
to bring up more.

XXXIV.
Bardi then returned, his courage found,
and saw the serpent's hoard laid out.
From the riches deposited there
he knew: the man must still be alive.

XXXV.
He found his nerve and went forward —
the bold one faltered not —
to drag the plunder from the draugr's den
with fitting words of praise.

XXXVI.
From the draugr's chamber they dragged out
four loads of treasure.
Homeward the bold spear-god went,
and the plenty grew.

XXXVII.
Hakon received what was dear to him —
the shoulder-treasures, well counseled.
Love grew and friendship warmed,
and it was great between them both.

XXXVIII.
Bardi was not forgotten —
Arnljotour gave him gold, grave-treasure bound in straps.
Of the barrow-hoard that came home,
he kept some for himself.

XXXIX.
From the east across the sea-lanes came
warriors arming for the fire of battle,
bearing shields and building might.
Soon the brave shall be named.

XL.
They were called Finni and Hervaldur —
wielders of the sword-stream's flood —
from Gardarlki, men of deeds,
warriors fierce in their realm.

XLI.
Raiding the gold-tree's laden bough,
they burned across the moorlands.
They ran their keels through the whale-road's heath,
leading their war-bands onward.

XLII.
They wasted the peace, and so it came:
they wrought with wound-claws upon gold.
With sharp blades and the wound-talon's bite
they guarded the belt-sea.

XLIII.
Against the merchants on the green sea-swell
the ordeal of battle stood at its height.
Trade was forbidden now
by those Swedish-bannered men.

XLIV.
The Swedes pressed the matter still,
new trials standing hard.
The cunning one brought the word
to the prince of those lands.

XLV.
From the fleet the warships drew out
and launched upon the open sea.
Ten the king had fitted —
soon among the people's ruin.

XLVI.
Bardi's host lay in Bakurr's peace,
keen for the midst of war —
poised to clash against
the dread warriors.

XLVII.
They sent the faithful company —
seals of ship and whale-sea.
The warriors turned upon the wave-bridge,
bearing fire-brands to feed.

XLVIII.
They met the spear-shakers then —
Hervaldur and Finni foremost.
The Swedish host fell before the folk,
the land's memory darkened.

XLIX.
Hervaldur lost his life — his shield broke.
Hervaldur, the scourge, fell.
Finni fell upon the heap of slain.
None escaped unscathed.

L.
Victory was snatched, the defense was lost.
The war-branch renders its hard verdict —
the sword-staff ends with certainty —
the Swedes received the greeting of Hel.

LI.
The red-faced took the ship of the dead —
the timid fled the valleys.
The ships were stripped and all the wealth
called after the fallen.

LII.
Onundur heard the news — it sat badly.
He set his mind hard against the hero.
To right this wrong and mend this harm,
he resolved most firmly, as expected.

LIII.
Those who feared were as the storm is tamed —
the sword's wrath grinding into ruin.
They harried without cease and gathered still,
and the heart of the Swedes was broken.

LIV.
The news flew on rumor-runes
before the crown-shaker's brow.
In the ring-fort, a bright forehead —
the hero now takes guest-right.

LV.
Wrathful tidings bore themselves anew,
word and warning rising.
Because evil counts were set against him,
the warrior therefore took counsel.

LVI.
The prince considered the harm ahead
and how swiftly ruin might come.
Hakon bade him therefore
leave that place at once.

LVII.
He sent the serpent on its roundabout way —
sworn oaths he did not heed.
Though the threats be heard both heavy and long,
he accounted them as nothing.

LVIII.
The worthy warrior rode to the hall,
through the crags and the highways of Rigg.
The bold one spoke his piece
to Olafr, Jarl of the Gauts.

LIX.
"Olafr, do as it pleases you —
it falls to you to stand beside us.
Whatever seems most painless and best,
let all be spared the ruin."

LX.
"Everything I firmly pledge —
the hand and the oath together —
if you will defend the man with blades
and steer against the storm."

LXI.
"Something else before the edge-strife —
I shall begin," he answers.
"With honor and fair peace-winds,
to the noble one I wish to go."

LXII.
"I ask that you lend your host, lord,
so that we may reach
a settlement, a truce, and full peace,
and let the people down gently."

LXIII.
The prince said he was pleased with that,
and promptly went to see.
They rode from that place to the lord,
one hundred men together.

LXIV.
With friendship's greeting they were met well —
the shield-breakers' known faces.
Before Arnljotour they offered amends,
and soon the hero's grievance passed.

LXV.
The tall king was most eager,
though it gave him pause.
Good around the bend — for the worth of wounds —
he met them fairly in return.

LXVI.
"For the sake of trust and all the settled land,
I let the grudge fall slack.
If the heart will not be broken further,
let hatred and doom now cease."

LXVII.
"Swiftly shall the man of valor —
the sword in other tides —
against Hervaldur who brought us ban:
let him fight his fight and be done."

LXVIII.
"All that was set shall be restored —
if the risk of this allows.
Let ill be righted and fully healed,
the opposite of downfall."

LXIX.
This oath — though no cheerful thing —
commands them hence from here.
The journey from this warrior's field:
across the green plains, homeward they ride.

LXX.
The guardian might tell the tale —
of the people's grievance, laid to rest.
The most dismissed of all the verse-craft's branches:
the lore of song, stifled.

Sjötta Ríma

Mansöngur

I.
Rain runs from its golden vessels —
this shower adorns the stones.
Green upon the fields, joy may grow —
the grass of learning sprouts.

II.
Upon that fortune so ordained,
the gift itself grants wisdom —
that the Hesperides' roof stand right
and rise up with its bloom.

III.
The life-path waits with lilies,
shining with the apples of glory —
all that matters most
in the innermost dwellings of the heart.

IV.
The light of stillness flashes now
as the sun gladdens the soul.
Wisdom's roof shelters the heart —
the shield stands under speech.

V.
The gentle voice grows red and fair,
touching the noblest heights of beauty.
Joy's green recitation, noble and keen —
heard by all who listen.

VI.
All manner of gleaming, all rejoicing —
the steady joy of every man.
All dance in every place
by the noble power's generous giving.

VII.
The glad hour arrives at last —
each one may understand
how the gathering of Fjölnir is named,
and strengthen this companionship.

VIII.
The man-song I shall shorten still —
the matter presses its claim.
There is much practiced in the telling —
I would rather further the saga's sound.

Narrative

IX.
The wine of Þundr grew thin —
the cup of Sigþórr ran dry —
as to Hákon, home to his hall,
the bright one came from afar.

X.
Hákon meets Arnljótur then
and tells him all the king revealed.
Of the terms of peace thereafter
he speaks of where things stand.

XI.
The spear-swinger answers in turn —
of Önundur's quiet resolve:
"In no way do I wish
to be a man held in necessity."

XII.
"This debt of ill-will that arose —
had I known of it before —
never from the bold ones' doing
would it have vexed me in Fenja's wind."

XIII.
"For the king's sake in the sword-time,
I see the trial of danger tested.
Against every brave thane —
no hatred finds its rest."

XIV.
Hákon answers: "Honor endures.
Let us see what best befits.
For the cause we must surely fight —
our duty demands no less."

XV.
"Because," Arnljótur replied,
"the bright one never frightens me.
I bear him no ill will —
you I value far more."

XVI.
"I know what angers you,
my kinsman, at the speech of thanes.
As each man ages, so it goes —
the years make the spirit bend."

XVII.
"Yet for your sake I shall
wield Skofnung — I deny it not —
and redden the wound-needles' storm,
if the king presses his people to war."

XVIII.
Hákon takes a man from the household
and sends him down the coast,
that the land-ruler may be told
what manner of speech now holds.

XIX.
The chieftain was glad of this
and honored the envoy with gifts.
He set out thus equipped —
the messenger journeyed back.

XX.
He let the fleet ships sail upon the sea,
setting course by the harbor's mark.
The lion of the people prepared
his best following company.

XXI.
"Bid the brave host set forth,"
he commands, "hold fast and arm yourselves.
From the east the Gauts shall come," the prince said —
"Wait in the golden sound."

XXII.
Hákon the Stout gathers a host,
swiftly throughout Gautland.
The best-armed warriors he knows —
swords sharpened for the wolf's hunger.

XXIII.
For the talk of war the armed host —
Jarl Ólafur chooses —
brave men called from peace along the shore,
wherever the fire-stave is known.

XXIV.
Three warships they fitted out,
the best that could be found.
Well armed were they —
a war-ready host in the sword's span.

XXV.
As foremost captain of the company
they placed the famous Arnljótur.
The champion readied at the assembly —
to ride the sea-road's waves.

XXVI.
Swiftly the ready host set out,
the cunning hero among them.
In the golden sound across the land,
the prince's warships found their course.

XXVII.
All were swift to welcome
the captain and his retinue.
Up from the dwellings, quickly —
they unfurled the sails.

XXVIII.
The breeze flapped at the helm,
high tidings running southward.
Through Geirhadda's miry waters
the warriors sailed, all alert.

XXIX.
Gjóni's beloved followed along,
lending strength to Formóðr's cold waters.
The wave-beasts rode the billows —
the wind blew through the halls of the sea.

XXX.
The falcons of the mast flew fast,
Fenrir's whelps frolicked in the surge.
Whales dove smooth through the breakers —
the silver necklace of the sea was wrought.

XXXI.
Far they let the fleet-ships sail,
seeking the famed vikings —
until the wise ones of Hár's hall
found the sword-wielders.

XXXII.
On twelve wave-steeds there lay
Hervaldur at Gyrðisnes.
Great was the difference among men then —
the Swedes took heed of this.

XXXIII.
"Rather would we hold our ground
than risk breaking the hall.
That shame," the worthy hero speaks,
"shall never be heard of us."

XXXIV.
"That we should slink before them —
not before Högni's will is tested!
Make ready in the clash of swords —
let the bright metal gleam!"

XXXV.
The others ask: "What men are these
who bear themselves so boldly?"
The warband answers from the stern:
"We are Swedes," they say.

XXXVI.
Finni answers first:
"This journey shall be remembered —
but your disgrace will prove
far worse than you expect."

XXXVII.
"No Swede shall be turned aside
from fighting the Russians.
The peace of slaves may be sweet —
but you shall have what you wish."

XXXVIII.
Weapons broke out on both sides —
they hewed their way to battle.
All peace was shattered there —
arrows flew from the bow-staves.

XXXIX.
The arrow-storm raged, swift and keen —
the flying serpent gushed with blood.
Men fought, lives fled —
the shafts stung the people to fury.

XL.
Hervaldur's prow was defended
by a strong man, fierce in arms.
The fellow fought as any hero's equal —
his name is Socki, as the tale tells.

XLI.
Socki hurled his spear,
sent it at Arnljótur's midsection.
But the champion caught it in mid-flight —
flung it aloft and cast it back.

XLII.
In Socki's chest the death-point struck,
the sharp barb bit — the hero died.
Hildr's wheel shook with ice —
he reached Jólnir's hall at last.

XLIII.
As soon as the flying javelin ceased,
the people drew their heavy swords.
Many grieved at the spear-play —
warriors on both sides fell.

XLIV.
Foremost of his own men went
the Gauts' captain, clothed in valor.
Great blows upon the shield-hides —
he dealt the foe their measure.

XLV.
Wherever Bölverkr's fire flashed,
the shield-breaker spared no one.
Never did the thunder of edges
leave a man asking for healing.

XLVI.
When the Swedes saw their own captain
struck with so great a blow,
each man found new heart-courage —
the halberds rang and sang.

XLVII.
So great a storm of swords arose
among the hard-fighting folk on the sea.
Blood took the bold ones' strength —
and the hall of Gilling's red ran deep.

XLVIII.
The Gauts stormed Hervaldur's ship,
hewing through the rigging five times over.
The gathering of the torment's cliff —
dark Hel felled the champions.

XLIX.
Arnljótur's own ships too were spent —
three of his oar-benches emptied.
Great Swedish men were found —
each matching the other in courage.

L.
Finni calls to Hervaldur:
"The Swedes prove hard warriors now.
Corpses pile on every side —
whence comes this fierceness?"

LI.
Hervaldur says: "I see one man —
the captain of the Svear and Gauts —
who at close quarters, marvelously quick,
can deal great blows."

LII.
"We must harden ourselves further.
Press forward like true warriors!
Wherever the battle-flame may reach,
we strike and swell the sword-clamor."

LIII.
Hervaldur drives forward to the fray —
he boards Arnljótur's ship.
With cold hatred the bear attacks,
hewing into the ranks on both sides.

LIV.
The company recoils from his edges —
the storm-lord drives them back.
The champion spied the warrior's charge
and went to face the Gyrðr-man.

LV.
The two worthy fighters met —
Hervaldur thought the prize was his,
as though the victory would come at once
into his own hand.

LVI.
Hrani's pyre-light flashed,
the fire of Bali flew from both blades.
Bísur's ravens reddened the rose —
chanting upon clouded shields.

LVII.
Neither spared the other —
Herjan's fire bore on in fury.
The shield-serpent cut keen —
the hall's pillars shook.

LVIII.
Hervaldur thinks this fellow
a hard trial of endurance.
The wound-prize swelled within him —
Arnljótur's wrath rode high.

LIX.
The heavy blow struck home —
the hero twisted aside.
The fair blade buried itself,
stuck fast in the ship's timber.

LX.
Hervaldur snatched his moment —
though it cost him dearly.
Arnljótur wrenched his blade free —
the edge aimed again at the other.

LXI.
The red steel bit the spine.
Shattered, Hervaldur fell.
Dead he is, as I reckon —
breathless upon the deck.

LXII.
Arnljótur's strength did not falter —
wondrous feats he worked.
Forward and back his folk he drove,
and the Gauts' glory he won.

LXIII.
They increased the iron-storm still,
the sword's parliament raged at the bloodthing.
Two of Gjúki's serpents they emptied —
but the steadfast vikings held.

LXIV.
The battle-torch's groan resounded,
the rigging groaned beneath the blows.
Blood-falls cascaded off the decks —
rivers thundering into the sea.

LXV.
In that moment of the swords' hunger —
so weary, so death-sick —
with five ships in flight,
Finni withdraws from the battle.

LXVI.
The champion calls to the Swedes:
"Gather your war-spoils now —
swift upon the sea-road —
make ready while we sail."

LXVII.
After Finni he gives chase,
commanding three Gaut ships.
The others rowed hard through the spray —
rowing now for their lives.

LXVIII.
They pursued with all their might,
both companies spent and strained,
until the darkness gathered,
and they put in at a headland.

LXIX.
They leaped ashore from the horse-road of the sea —
the warlike vikings, their fearful host.
"Here shall Gólnir's geese make their stand —
they can flee no farther."

LXX.
The hall of Skollvaldr's stream falls silent —
the thorn still greens upon the bowls.
The cup of feasting's joy tilts over —
men rejoice but late from his hand.

Sjöunda Ríma

Mansöngur

I.
The rooster of Fjölnir's hall cries out —
courage's power delivers.
The cool wine of Jólnir's custom
he brings to his own drinking-friends.

II.
The sharp cup stirs the palate,
the thorned kernel twice adorned —
the song-smith's weary dwelling
pieces the poem together.

III.
The fair dwelling upon the field,
Baktur's cairn runs onward —
rather the harm of wool's bright ice,
the shore's clasp stretching wide.

IV.
Still from the south the god descends,
with Fáli's winds around him —
the echo streams in steering strength,
swift from Geitland's peaks.

V.
The stream of Mímir's springs runs warm,
cheering many a son —
if Nanna's glory-god should sing
Lýrandr's ancient measure.

VI.
The wound of foresight is forgotten, grown —
the spirit adorned by deeds.
The star of Stýrenir's surf blooms bright,
heralding to us glad tidings.

VII.
The wound of trials fades at last,
the grip of sorrow loosens —
the letter reaches its own shore,
the proper dwelling found.

VIII.
The bright one's favor is upon us,
ours in fortunate hours —
the hall's great place bestows its good,
standing upon firm ground.

Narrative

IX.
The preamble is cut short here,
struck down and broken.
The matter at hand shall swiftly begin —
these findings are sent to you.

X.
Warriors leaped aboard the ships,
eager to reach the land.
The Gauts' chieftains gave swift chase,
racing one another onward.

XI.
Before them lay dark waters,
bogs and mighty marshes.
The people turned aside from these —
their numbers running thin.

XII.
Finni saw his plan take shape —
he marshals his warriors.
Against the Gauts the warlike one
wakes battle upon the land.

XIII.
The brave ones sought each other then,
swords sundering the folk.
The Gauts' hero, rich in glory, bade
his men not fear in battle.

XIV.
Heavy buckles burst apart,
spears crashed upon the shields.
The swords sang sweeping strokes —
cool upon the tents of skulls.

XV.
The fallen sank in heaps of dead,
the roar of iron was heard.
Ravens and eagles found their prey —
the wolf and she-wolf fed.

XVI.
The sea-giant's sun was raised aloft —
a storm of pointed edges.
Finni buckles Fjalar's cloak
and strides forward, grim.

XVII.
The weapon struck its finest blows —
few were glad of the sword.
The rending blade carved deep —
the red blood ran like weather.

XVIII.
The gore-stained wolves went growling,
fouling the Gauts with blood.
The veins' red wine spilled forth —
the whole field ran with flood.

XIX.
Death kicked at the heels of hosts,
urging the Gauts to fury.
The hero guarded the victory's hall,
finding the foe's undoing.

XX.
Arnljótur let Kvernbít loose —
that blade of the cunning smith.
The storm of war raged hottest now —
the hawk's perch broke apart.

XXI.
The swift shield-bearer of Stilving
with fierce and sudden fist —
against the warriors of the sword
on both sides furiously hewed.

XXII.
Swiftly the marshal set his host aright —
the star-breaker of Fornúlfr.
Jólnir's court gave warriors speech,
the giant's riddle solved.

XXIII.
The Russians fell — stubborn, few
could withstand the onslaught.
The cowardly slunk away to flee —
many sat down for good.

XXIV.
The men of Garðar's battle-heart
kept the field in order.
The Gauts, emboldened, pressed their charge,
driving the rest to flight.

XXV.
Finni's own men began to slip,
one by one they vanished.
Gróa's work yet drove them on —
the storm-god's course blew fierce.

XXVI.
Against the Gauts the strong man stood,
his effort never flagging —
the warlike one piled wide the dead,
the wound-rain lashing down.

XXVII.
No coward found his will to flee —
they would rather fall together.
The cunning warrior, skilled with blades,
raged with a crafty fury.

XXVIII.
Every helm's horn is pierced through,
hewing with the serpent's edges.
Bold as the eagle, Arnljótur strides —
he battles the last of Finni's men.

XXIX.
They clashed beyond all reckoning,
with branches and rigging they fought.
There each to the other gave
the fire-spell's bitter sting.

XXX.
Shields were wielded thin as straw,
leaves splitting in the storm.
The bold ones drew their bows of elm —
the fierce ones knew their craft.

XXXI.
The coward sees no gentle beast —
no luck against these champions.
The warrior stood upon the hard ground,
fighting to win through shields.

XXXII.
The power of his strength showed often —
the skill of the wise was known.
He could lift the Finns aloft
and cast the cunning down.

XXXIII.
The battle-tamer, yet untired,
the fierce one struck again.
He caught the Finns and held them fast,
seizing the stricken men.

XXXIV.
Great victory was then bestowed
upon the lords of the Gauts.
Swiftly from the stranded ships the host went —
the storm of battle past.

XXXV.
They raised bonfires and cut the banners,
the red flame of Fjalar burned.
They took much glory from that field —
the spoils of the dead were claimed.

XXXVI.
The Gauts sailed swiftly on the sea
to find their quarrelsome neighbors.
The Swedes were driven home at last —
the others would not tarry.

XXXVII.
They had no wish to share their wealth
with the woman of the Gauts.
For they had thought to bring down death
upon the thanes — but failed.

XXXVIII.
They managed soon to find old Finni —
the hero, cheerful, bound.
He asks if the warrior of war
will speak the truth at last.

XXXIX.
To Uppsala first they journey,
before the great king's court.
Their worth of life they prove before him —
the king's decree they accept.

XL.
Then the host received harsh words —
the sword-prince paid his toll.
One trial of judgment was appointed,
and the brightest held his ground.

XLI.
"Strike, warrior! Both fate and choice
take now from me at once.
The beloved guest shall see, poem-wise,
the ruler's honored way."

XLII.
The warrior answers with rough speech:
"God forbid I should do that —
never have I dealt a sword-stroke
to a wound on a bound man."

XLIII.
"More skilled in battle and more famed
I find no man my equal.
Therefore it stands clear upon this field —
the wise one is no coward."

XLIV.
"I dare give you your life,
you strong one, wolf-feeder!
If you, my friend, will henceforth
follow me as your lord."

XLV.
He looses the bound man from his fetters —
the tree of Lóðinn freed.
The thane seeks out fair thanks,
his tears upon his cheeks.

XLVI.
The hatred's fullness fell away,
warm affection took its place.
The fire-wool of the spell followed —
a friend from that day on.

XLVII.
The Gauts' company weathered the storm,
the winds pulled taut around them.
The devouring surge chased the healer's plenty —
the dark clamor reigned.

XLVIII.
The horses of the sea broke through,
the steeds ran swift and keen.
The serpent-prows, the oar-god's wood —
they knew the sea's own song.

XLIX.
The prow loomed over sparking sand,
the swans of the lagoon at rest.
The Gauts pressed on until the land —
the swift ones found their harbor.

L.
Hákon met the heroes there,
cheerful, honoring their strength.
The sea's merry maiden smiled —
delight was kindled all around.

LI.
The household, stocked with goodly stores,
spirited, led the welcome.
Into the hall where steady it stood —
pouring down gladness on them all.

LII.
The Gauts drained swift their foaming cups,
praise blazed about the Finns.
The gifts of beauty, swift and free —
their fame enough to fill them.

LIII.
The merry drunken warriors say:
"The Swedish dogs have left us!"
Arnljótur's bold — his equal match
no man shall ever find.

LIV.
Sleep's strength to the end empowered —
this man's vigor never stops.
The Gauts' most famous thane
stands fit to bear the silence.

LV.
The people's companies, all in praise,
rejoice after the feat.
Gýmir's gleam hides its hidden cloak —
thereafter glad they celebrate.

LVI.
They guarded well the treasure won,
and granted plenty upon plenty.
Fame and honor's sure reward —
the glory reached its height.

LVII.
The sweet news of the victory spreads —
the watchman swift and hard.
And Arnljótur's nurturing might is grudged,
ever more scorned by the crown.

LVIII.
The great lord of hosts heard the tale —
of Fornjótur's star and storm.
The spear-god gave them life and leave,
who could not loose himself.

LIX.
The king conceals his mind in secret
and lets no threat appear.
The ruler's disfavor, sometimes tested,
could never hold its ground.

LX.
It was the custom of the lord
to receive feasts from the Gauts —
every third year in that place,
according to the king's old way.

LXI.
Then Svafaðr's messenger was born —
the prince dispatched from court.
In haste the noble sent his man,
swift to visit the Gauts.

LXII.
Lítar's friend, the fair one, waits —
time is granted and measure.
Bísur's gift, the thread grows thin —
it runs out: the ríma is done.

Áttunda Ríma

Mansöngur

I.
Often I, drenched, went out on the flood at learning's ebb —
would that I could catch in that perilous current a fragment of verse.

II.
One thing I know: the age sneers at Ísa's field —
my verse earns neither denial nor praise.

III.
To myself therefore I slowly bring the battle-god's gift —
he at first dares not try how heavy the labor is.

IV.
This toil I grumble at now — that is my faith —
the pine-tree is not the one before her, neither servant nor cow.

V.
Verse-sheaves to read on a page, with relish and scent —
I track and nose after the trail like one who hunts the fox.

VI.
I court the prize and welcome the murmur, awaiting embrace —
like one who coaxes a mouse by lamplight's glow.

VII.
Lead is driven out and thrust away, but love is won —
the swift work, if it succeeds, will never fail.

VIII.
From one remedy I found the feast-day in words lost —
a child who begins never turns back from the road.

IX.
The lazy one sat idle at empty words,
while in another world, unknowing, the eager one was at work.

X.
The drawling man at word-play is never wise —
one who grumbles at the loose-called craft of verse.

XI.
Words ride out on the hillside in the Author's custom —
yet find not the swift smiths' fitting cut.

XII.
The ríma's tale found its beginning — the ablest and most wise
set out to raise the Gauts' hall in a swell of joy.

XIII.
Bridles he found among lords in every hall —
honor and respect every man knows how to show.

XIV.
Hákon may there learn tidings and foresee —
to Hringtún comes word, so the ruler sees.

XV.
With a hundred men the sword-bearer marched
to meet the lord of the land —
he led him swiftly to the hall
with a garland of retainers.

XVI.
Arm-rings we offered wide, and honor was bestowed —
the finest feast rises there as ever was seen.

XVII.
Stilling tears and pouring out the draught, as streams pour down —
the warriors' cups among the mountain-crags, for so the feast stands.

XVIII.
Gold gleams — for grudging was costly — and cheer returned.
He answers promptly the ring-god with good will.

XIX.
"Where is the battle's champion? Is he not esteemed at home?
Let him drink here at our feast, wine with skill."

XX.
Hákon shows he is at home and bears good counsel —
for guests he serves best and directly, as we invite.

XXI.
The lord demanded then that idle talk cease —
so the prince gave drink, and all worthy things were served.

XXII.
At dawn's hour — I will tell this, I do not conceal it —
Hákon spoke to Arnljótur in earnest manner.

XXIII.
"Friend, learn from us and stay near when the feast grows —
the lord wills it, great in spirit, and the tidings are fair."

XXIV.
A helm he gave him, and a sword with stern promise —
"Our lives these will be worth when deeds are done."

XXV.
At the tables sat the folk in force, the lord foremost —
there was drunk the finest wine and served the best.

XXVI.
With another man there came into the hall one who found fortune —
courteously the lord then greeted him.

XXVII.
Before the lord they sat, and at one bench
both settled at the seat to speak together.

XXVIII.
"What name does the champion bear who greets the company?
A more warlike man in the field I have never seen."

XXIX.
Answers promptly the bold one, well used to the clash of blades:
"Arnljótur — you may call me that, and bear no malice."

XXX.
"Who is he that sits beside you at the bench?"
Arnljótur deigned to answer then, and did not flinch.

XXXI.
"That is Finni, my companion — but your enemy.
Honor and glory the swift champion bears in every deed."

XXXII.
"Lord! I bid you sit, and give this man
trusty shelter, good peace, and lasting friendship."

XXXIII.
"The seat of judgment shows — I, myself, and my settlements here —
I alone shall counsel and rule, and never you."

XXXIV.
"So it shall be," the champion said, "when the hour comes —
long have I never suffered smallness in matters of spirit."

XXXV.
Up he stood and away he strode with reddened arrows —
the ruler grew wrathful then, red as blood.

XXXVI.
Two retainers who shook their spears beside the lord —
Gauti and Teitur spared nothing, villains both.

XXXVII.
These took counsel, tongues knotting tight —
they called them both aside with bitterest malice.

XXXVIII.
"Near to you here sits one upon the stained bench —
hand Finni over as a convict, for so we command."

XXXIX.
"Bring him to death's ban and doom's hall" —
to this they swore in truth, when the chance arose.

XL.
Day awaited its dawn; from the company away
the household stretched under the broad boards, and the lord contended.

XLI.
In the sleeping-place they spy their moment — so now with speed
the wretches approach Finni and seize upon him.

XLII.
Teitur struck with savage claw at the champion's breast —
with strength the warrior threw the blow aside and struck in turn.

XLIII.
The assailant fell beneath him, swift as he could —
and the sword, wrested from the sheathless one, he fiercely won.

XLIV.
In that moment Gauti rushed to thrust in the spear-fight —
he seized a blade at the shoulder's slope, as befits a bold one.

XLV.
Wound upon wound upon sword-wound the brave man took —
yet the fierce blade's stroke fell back on Teitur at last.

XLVI.
From the villain's skull the din was spent —
Gauti's life left him there, and he lay like a heap.

XLVII.
Arnljótur found what had happened, all the treachery —
he discovered within what had occurred, every foul deed.

XLVIII.
The champion rushed so fast it could be heard —
calling on bold warriors, as flame was seen.

XLIX.
In that place where a fortress stood for defense,
fifty of his sworn companions were found there.

L.
"Surely his force stands guard there with weapons and a storm of arms —
if the lord will not make peace with what has been done."

LI.
Word came to the lord of the land, the tale of what passed —
Finni had sent his retainers to Hel's hall.
LII.
Through the heart the furious hate raged at the news —
the lord's men like a downpour rushed to slay the thane.

LIII.
"Fitting that he who struck men down shall receive his due —
the warrior cannot withstand us, nor stand against our force."

LIV.
He heard now that the champion, most valiant of all,
was in the fortress, armed and ready to defend his own.

LV.
"The lord shows — when he sees he is not heeded —
his full enmity toward me, and it goes the worse for him."

LVI.
"Win you nothing, weapon-lord, against one viking's dog —
will you kill upon the field?" The other answers: "No."

LVII.
"I find the Swedish king bears a new grudge against me —
let us test what we are worth in battle and red din."

LVIII.
"Surely the tale will be told among wise men —
that it costs dearly for any lord to slay such a champion."

LIX.
"I offer yet a remedy, you javelin-bearer, with gentle threat —
if you will take this chance against the opposition's root."

LX.
The prince gave no answer, for his fury held —
he dispatched nine more ships to press the attack.

LXI.
Ólafur the blessed, with noble warriors and kinsmen all,
rushed forward then to prevent the clash of arms.

LXII.
They demanded loudly that the lord nobly bind a peace —
and he yielded at last, reluctant, with stubborn patience.

LXIII.
"The lord shows what he demands of you, as custom allows —
greater than your fame it is to follow me."

LXIV.
"Surely at times I find here treacherous friendship —
yet guard your thoughts against that viking, that worst of villains."

LXV.
Ólafur said: "We fear this in every place —
that the multitude will suffer misfortune here, swiftly and hard."

LXVI.
"Lord, if warriors cannot reach a settlement —
not one of yours goes from here with his life."

LXVII.
The ruler sees what is most fitting, as the man demonstrates —
amid sharp words, wherever I go, I speak my will.

Níunda Ríma

Mansöngur

I.
Sluggish is the will to stir the pillar of learning —
told is the silence of Álfsvinn.
The mind flees and lays down to rest —
little does the pale one's servant care.

II.
A poet known to nations for his gift —
nations applaud and listen well —
but the near-shore poet, swift of tongue,
is now the craftsman shaped by art.

III.
You would say, among the glad,
that counsel is offered and weighed —
she conceals not, and sees the cost:
Suðri's serpent sits gray.

IV.
Memory's fields of wisdom
and warm tales full of sorrow —
the blossom falls and honors you,
but autumn's age stands before me.

V.
The bud grew nobly forth
from the poet who bore great deeds —
the dark fruit of delight's labor
often gave both peace and encouragement.

VI.
It fades, it numbs, it wastes — alas —
far beyond the nature of man:
it fades, it breaks, forgets all joy,
and desire sleeps its brightest dream.

VII.
Western prayers, urgent,
the harvest bears its increase —
all hopes prove true,
sharp and green the times to come.

VIII.
Unblossomed yet upon the field,
dark against the fair light —
each man hastens because of this,
heart-glad within the world.

IX.
Whetted blessings, the gift raised high —
we may rejoice in gain,
and red is the bounty of the host
that the victory-god's leaves may find.

X.
Whatever builds a cold resolve,
dismay would will misfortune —
so Sigvaldi wastes away
and a new sentence stands.

XI.
The tale resumes where before it fell,
swift as a lord commands his host —
with fury and wrath the wise one heard
what jarl and carl both demanded.

XII.
But meanwhile, words of strife
were spoken there concerning terms —
few men saw the fateful choice
that wise men counselled to resolve.

XIII.
Sixty men with grim resolve,
harm awaits the stiffened blades —
a fate was stitched among them there,
she who spanned the ship across.

XIV.
When the king received this news,
oppressed by heavy mood —
with sorrow thus he spoke:
"Little is the pleasure of journeys now."

XV.
"Such marvels of endurance —
no one has ever heard before
that warriors of renown retreat,
like men emptied of all courage."

XVI.
"Noble chieftains shall not
hear this tale of me hereafter —
though my temper burns hot,
I shall not wage war against women."

XVII.
"Directly before your place of prayer,
soon it shall be called a settlement —
and each and every term agreed,
if he will give consent to it."

XVIII.
"First shall the bold hero himself,
with honor, escort and deliver
all the Upplands under our authority —
let not the hand's snow be wanting."

XIX.
"Let Finna depart from
the kingdom of the Swedes —
such is the peace-term that is made
and set for the guarding of his life."

XX.
The shield-bearer swore his oath
and spoke it forth boldly:
"Under your fate my will shall never pass —
my firm resolve does not consent."

XXI.
"All these lands belong here
to the noble king of the Swedes,
won by sword and shield with valor —
so they would pass into your hands."

XXII.
"But for your sake I cannot
fulfill these evil terms —
to betray the loyal subjects
of the one who rules Norway's realm."

XXIII.
"Where you dwell, it is foretold
that you would compel the Uplanders —
but the Upplands, I believe, shall never
yield you inheritance, goods, or wealth."

XXIV.
"That strong man who carves his path —
I refuse to drive him forth,
that glorious hero of great deeds,
to whom I gave my word and life."

XXV.
"Sooner shall I fall dead upon the earth
than that stain be won by treachery —
this compulsion of yours is hard:
I shall resist your peace-making."

XXVI.
Hákon, weary with effort, spoke,
halting in his words:
"You, troublesome man of troubles,
who can name your reckless course?"

XXVII.
"You would topple all of us
into enmity and ruin —
from peace and truce you dash away:
such shame shall never fade."

XXVIII.
"That you may judge as you will —
the subject turns back loyally.
There before you it stands unclear
whether your stubbornness costs us all."

XXIX.
The king went with his retinue then
home, and kept his temper —
from the brave warriors and the men,
he set himself to drinking at the bench.

XXX.
Ólafur did not relent toward the jarl,
earnest in his plea for peace —
he was wise and shrewd in counsel,
and Hákon fell to his argument.

XXXI.
So at last they prevailed upon
the nobleman against the proud one —
the two came to speak together,
king and chieftain, no more apart.

XXXII.
Önundur says: "I see clearly
your stubborn displeasure —
it does not please you to yield,
and against us you wage the fiercest contest."

XXXIII.
"You alone would rule the temples
while the honor of others you diminish —
though friends on both sides are good-tempered,
bid them now to seek grace quietly."

XXXIV.
"For this cause you will not yield —
peril speaks in these terms.
Pride you lay in the heart's depth,
and hate's rancor: that is gray."

XXXV.
"Say then for yourself
what set terms might hold —
so that this stubborn draft may wane:
let us hear it now."

XXXVI.
Arnljótur brought his answer forth,
so measured in his manner:
"I will raise what the high one demands —
swift is the prince's remedy."

XXXVII.
"For your men I shall
pay noble compensation —
so that your peace and order be restored,
and Finna given his troop's reward."

XXXVIII.
"Have you not already given me
both your word and pledges?
The lord's domain — however it fares —
from this day forth, you shall decide."

XXXIX.
The lord answered with measured speech,
seeing no other way:
"I shall rather yield this far —
the fire of hate I wish to quench."

XL.
All the warriors standing there,
when they heard the words of truce,
became exceedingly glad —
for Arnljótur's sake they gave their thanks.

XLI.
They settled on whole terms of peace
and set witnesses upon it —
ceased their boasting, wiser both,
from the heart's agitation, both together.

XLII.
Arnljótur paid a wealth of gold
to the lords who had agreed —
in full compensation for the fallen strife,
the oaths that once lacked trust grew whole.

XLIII.
To Naðþorni was shown the best
that unstinting kindness could give —
it seemed a welcome rest to him
when he rose the following morning.

XLIV.
The champion gave to the noble ones —
gold chain and silver —
treasures of fine craft to behold,
gifts of generous measure.

XLV.
From Grímníð's store of treasures
he gave also to Finni —
in all the lands of Asia,
no finer wealth do I recall.

XLVI.
The gold-spender spoke but briefly,
the serpent's flame-bed guardian —
to Uppsala he invites them swiftly,
bidding both to come to him.

XLVII.
Plainly the hero refused, though grieved:
"Here I shall remain a while."
He increased his refusal every way —
the wise prince greatly trusted him.

XLVIII.
The lord of lands, high in honor,
counted himself lucky to depart —
with his own fortune he rode away,
laden with the riches of the sea.

XLIX.
The host's poet, in harmony,
accepted the hawk's perch gladly —
away rides Ólafur,
no less honored for his journey.

L.
The fame of the hero's great deeds —
noble in form and force —
his fortune, honor, and true word:
all Gautaland praised him far and wide.

LI.
Laden with the gifts of kinsmen,
the man sat there so glad —
long in grace his life was lent,
the praiseworthy lord held to his rule.

LII.
From the warrior's long deeds, health faltered —
illness at last could afflict him;
old age's weariness crept upon him,
yet his glory still endured.

LIII.
The beloved hero bore his passing grief —
long was he well-loved among his people.
So it was that many friends
attended him with honor at his rest.

LIV.
The champion bid the noble ones come,
and the great chieftains likewise —
as was wished and had been set,
to attend the feast of honor.

LV.
The king answered the summons,
and the swift one spoke thus:
"This I cannot manage," he said,
and spoke for another's sake.

LVI.
At that funeral feast was given
worthy honor to the men —
all around, the chieftains gathered
and drained the horn-cups there.

LVII.
From the love he bore for the people's gathering,
Ólafur the noble jarl
gave to Arnljótur, bright as gold —
in full recompense, the title of hersir.

LVIII.
He struck the hall's beam with glory,
the famed pillar among men —
the lord's renown and fortune
filled all of empty Gautaland.

LIX.
When to Önundur came this news,
the kind that stirs a warrior's spirit —
that at that gathering a new title
had been given to the champion.

LX.
Though the king bore this grudgingly —
it was ugly, he thought —
in this he was dishonored:
Ólafur had given such advancement.

LXI.
The prince had already felt
the sting of heavy slights before —
now the swift man's honor grew
while his own standing lessened in the land.

LXII.
His wrath fell upon the man severely —
yet he learned the harder lesson:
he was forced to let it rest,
against this one no standing now.

LXIII.
Arnljótur took his inheritance and wealth
after the one now laid in earth —
generous in his open giving,
distributing riches through the land.

LXIV.
His people became glad at this —
the way of honor shone most bright,
as befits a man of noble bearing:
all rejoiced with honest will.

LXV.
This must be told: the tale draws near its close,
this chapter of great deeds —
men may think it overlong,
but his will shall endure still.

Tíunda Ríma

Mansöngur

I.
Barely grows the stream of Viðrir's verse-waters —
little though it mends, the craft flows on —
your smith of song-paths, spent.

II.
Bísur's horn bestows the ancient hidden richness —
evening and morning the wheat it shakes —
Hvíting's seed-grain gleams.

III.
In passing times I fault the poems the songs would offer —
wise ones rejoice in the blooming growth —
full of strife, the spirit resounds.

IV.
Valgant's drink, well-prepared, weaves wisdom —
the wealth breeds courage in the eager —
all stubborn boldness it drives forth.

V.
The storm of harm stands at times in the world —
Fafnir's sheep props the grove —
the thundering earth rumbles beneath.

VI.
Odin gave me — slight though — a melody for verse —
I cast forth song for fair sorrow —
the sundered nation mourns its burden.

VII.
My labor is a great needless strife and toil —
the learning vanished from my peaceful strength —
the eager craft of the heart awaits.

VIII.
I would gift all doubt with love and kenning —
rotting chaff found among men —
as if drowned in age's decrepitude.

IX.
The unjust song I declare too high, say I to the maiden —
the greedy hound yearns to die —
he can barely glimpse the mirror's shore.

X.
Rögn's power bids silence fall there like a lord —
with sure profit the swift one found himself —
beside the chieftain, glad among the sea-host.

XI.
Turn now to tidings — this next upon the thunder's maiden —
that news was densely found throughout —
the rumor flew lightly over the sea's foundations.

The Borderlands

XII.
Between the Upplands and the Gauts the fair-road stretches wide —
columns stand on desolate heaths —
by custom, the paths spread broad.

XIII.
The road toward Uppsala, not diminished, for Hjer's men —
another tale there is, laid bare —
hidden among stones, each with its spring.

XIV.
The heath-path's flat — few find their way to it —
another road glints beside it —
that loan of hatred, none can claim.

XV.
On those broad gleaming heaths the rogues grow bold —
thieves dig deep to guard their spoils —
swift riders lose the path, their caution spent.

XVI.
None dared to tread across the desolate wastes —
the coward's murders wear the good men thin —
the wise despair at what the rogues have stored.

XVII.
From this rose peril with icy harm, unceasing —
the path hampered the swift of foot —
those who went through the land, breakers of spears.

XVIII.
Suddenly might diminished among many —
spirit uneasy among the spear-daring —
small gain we hear of, coin by coin.

XIX.
Fourteen burdens the men lament, long sustained in pain —
the burden endured, long since gone —
no one comforts the weary on the journey.

Arnljótur's Ride

XX.
When Arnljótur heard this from the stubborn ones,
he set his spirit firm at its root —
and from his fierce breast the burden lifted.

XXI.
The cunning sword-champion said to Finni:
"Among the Uplanders I shall win —
to visit the lands of my kinsmen."

XXII.
"We shall both rightly ride by counsel through the woods —
the paths from the lowland I translate —
bright together on the blessed journey."

XXIII.
On chosen saddles fine men settle and spur on —
over the heath's grief they begin to urge —
the slopes of Uppsala they can reach on foot.

XXIV.
In those hard lands where raging rivers run —
sixteen fearsome sword-trees —
wrapped in Gunnar's thin flood.

XXV.
The faithless one's shields flatten the helm — enchanted craft —
two steer the numbered host —
through cold moors, with cunning art.

The Battle

XXVI.
They leapt from the backs of their best steeds —
swiftly welcoming the western guests —
sharpening the reading of resting spears.

XXVII.
Fierce fighting men stride stinging beside Ingi —
risking descent to the Sharpener's court —
the grudge of the Springbent sorrow.

XXVIII.
Laden with battle, the conflicts begin, growing harsh —
sword-edges dulled as shields were struck —
the wavering were stiffened and held firm.

XXIX.
More than they feared, the brave ones turned their minds to war-tokens —
the valiant bent their blows to test —
they drew their steeds and bit through the wound-shine.

XXX.
Biblind's fire surely causes the slain their fall —
fools are sold to the pale singer —
Gríms was felled, the washed one, stained.

XXXI.
The unwearied one raises the red storm of Tveggja —
the eager keen-speaking stallion neighs —
grim death from the edges of both.

XXXII.
Long the poet is not free of blemish in battle's roar —
wounded men of honor, pious —
in the clash of onslaught, the tumult grows.

XXXIII.
Very fierce, the battle-tokens rage in madness —
the spirit drowning, filled with fury —
Skafi wrestles — the shield-rim breaks.

XXXIV.
Steeled warriors try the rush of missiles throughout the land —
until three alone stood unbowed —
no shields survived the slaughter.

XXXV.
In mid-flight those sated with terror would flee —
dashed courage in the meeting of wounds —
braided of luck and thunder's kindling.

XXXVI.
Good men raise the fierce high storm of war —
gushing blood pours from their wounds —
they wade through the flood of the river of battle.

XXXVII.
Bold ones think to find the bold and drive the guilty —
Finni's might then proved in the struggle —
endurance grew less for the valiant's exploit.

XXXVIII.
Sword-sheaths split by swift craft — so the veins bleed —
he settles down upon the field —
weariness claims the ground and the steadfast.

XXXIX.
Across the heath's long expanse the hero fares better —
he drives the strong ones, urges the contest —
gales walk into Flelljón's domain.

Arnljótur in Combat

XL.
The roof-wolf knows how to run there, stubborn and swift —
locks clench, foul ones in blood —
none dare close the path against him.

XLI.
Daði's known dart-bender, bold with heart —
he sends a hard stone, black and fierce —
the door turns swiftly to its purpose.

XLII.
Into the thick of them Arnljótur waded —
the elm made them tremble —
those against him, swords screaming —
the root-time strengthened, pillars shook.

XLIII.
The skilled defend themselves, rogues fight to destroy cowards —
the host's tree rides in fury —
shields are shattered, the treacherous wounded.

XLIV.
The battle was drawn into the champion's breast,
though weariness clothes him —
the sword's feast feeds fury —
healed by luck, the veins still bleed.

XLV.
Not before Urni's braid ceased does Yggur build —
each one lying, back broken —
receiving death's own dwelling.

XLVI.
From fury the man grows calm, worth no more a coin —
though wounds bleed and the blood dries slow —
swift over the heights he stirs the clay.

The Return

XLVII.
He met Finni, hidden beneath the linden's tears —
keen to win amends with clear will —
and the champion warms, striking at the foe.

XLVIII.
So to the journey then they travel, the passage made —
home straightway each was brought —
in friendly shelter, with honors nourished.

XLIX.
There was found enough from kinsmen's grudge-strife,
with flood-gold —
broad plow and good increase —
to pay the law from Fróði's treasure.

L.
Ten days from the wounds' burden both rested —
then swiftly to deeds of battle they turned —
from there they gained their way with fortune.

LI.
Home with plenty, of great fame they held their realm —
and their eased desires fell to fire —
released with ease, the slain were settled.

LII.
Craftsmen's work he won throughout the land with custom —
those who felled the bold in the harm of brands —
peace-roads of men, the hand-stroke-sender.

LIII.
All wondered more at the work of battle —
what two strong men had accomplished —
thrusting spears against the hardened foe.

The Feast and the Wedding

LIV.
Ólafur the jarl held at the feast choice honors —
with peace-shining companions at his feet —
they met in fields, more noble seats.

LV.
Ingibjörg won recompense in plenty, and fair Ástríður —
who won favor while the people praised —
among the elves' folk in gracious times.

LVI.
Into Finni's hands the steadfast hero pays honor —
he demanded the wise one's honor-pledge —
the sun-stream's tree of chariots.

LVII.
Ingi the spear-champion, rescuer, chains the slope —
cunning Finni received such recognition —
the host-champion, bound none.

LVIII.
A wedding was set — many appetites of kinsmen to satisfy —
the horn-supporter tends the matters —
for men, the days of law are rightly kept.

LIX.
He sat with the jarl — Finni's wise one afterward, content —
all of Finni's folk were fair —
they call him the most famous — the times await.

LX.
Sémi the wise receives honors at the violet's bower —
and governance of warriors from the hall's high seat —
honor rose to the violet's peak.

Closing

LXI.
By the burial grove, with fate-endowed groves —
the man was cast from slumber nine times —
in the Springfields, sometimes content.

LXII.
Firm loves, all-strengthened, bind the joys —
dark faults from memory cast away —
the most faithful men of spirit endure.

LXIII.
The foundling's yarn no longer bleeds with fury —
slumber won, it soothes the weariness —
the bound tongue speaks the verse.

Ellefta Ríma

Mansöngur

I.
Still Jari's ferry would go forth
from the pillars of the forefathers' pledges —
all of Hrani's ravens call upon her,
keen hawks attend the assembly.

II.
Surely unlearned and greatly weary
is he who composed the praise of memory —
forgotten by ears is the crowing
of Gullinbursti, which once rang everywhere.

III.
In Iceland it is the custom:
Ódreir's mixture gladdens the people,
driving away sorrow clearly
in the cold and blowing winter-time.

IV.
The gift of memory heals the spirit,
storms of weeping unchecked —
joy binds the highest kinfolk
in the frequent wind of distant fires.

V.
Heaviness it destroys, numbness it kills —
dwell as the fruit of speech demands,
sleep's burden it drives away,
then new peace follows after.

VI.
Even the swan approaching the slayer
is often accustomed to sweet song —
forever Ómi's gift would endure;
I wished to still the sound.

VII.
The goddess's grief after the storm,
the eagle's people granted the hall —
swift verse composed in threefold,
the soul's delight in the flame of joy.

VIII.
All that a man or sea-eagle
upon the broad field of battle gathers —
the soul's light, seen with grace,
the Sun provides from its bright sphere.

IX.
Give a moment's ember by the brow,
granted there the wide-falling channel —
the ground rests beneath the rail,
the bound mansöngur draws to its close.

X.
Words break and sharpness bites —
the tale continues the story anew.
Noble as written: wise Haraldr,
a king, sits in Norway.

XI.
Most governance-skilled, the ruler advanced,
quelling sorrow within the land —
yet men recognized strife would stir
between the Uppsala king and him.

XII.
The worthy king heard, mild,
that the steel-breaker filled with valor —
in Gautland's realm he held honor,
Arnljótr, with the fire of the sea.

XIII.
He asked likewise the ring-benders
who spoiled such deeds of courage —
whatever worth holding they would keep
with the mild king of the Norse folk.

XIV.
And from the Uplanders' hands,
the noble kin of the Swedes demanded:
what throughout the ages ought be held
as the manifold property of the Norsemen.

XV.
Norway's lord, the prince, thought
such a sign of abundant virtues —
through quiet strength at his command
he could swiftly bind things firmly.

XVI.
He dispatched a message from his hand
to the noble land of Gautland:
the broad-landed warrior he bade come,
and heartily sent the sea-flame's warmth.

XVII.
Therewith the fair prince bids
the gracious champion of all fame:
all the folk of wide Uppland
shall heed Arnljótr's dominion.

XVIII.
Very slowly, in many ways,
reluctantly he dealt with this matter —
in such a standing, great is the difficulty:
it stirs up trouble anew.

XIX.
"Though the trustworthy, wise leader
call me his loyal friend —
I seek not after a kingdom;
that pursuit is unwavering."

XX.
"In this I find I shall be eased —
noble men prove themselves to the land,
as justice adorns the counsel
and experience reveals the ground of peace."

XXI.
Happily the messenger
went swiftly home from there —
the wisdom-tame prince of men
received the tidings well.

XXII.
That same year, prospering further,
the king turned toward England —
war-tamed and valor-strong,
he met the veil of death.

XXIII.
Dáinn's violet bore to the dwelling
and sat upon the prince's throne —
the mare's foal hides on the hill,
honor's violet the bold ones gained.

XXIV.
Magnús landed, known to many —
speeches and the marks of power he won;
his enemies he turned pale
and set in the bonds of death.

XXV.
Strife ceased. Arnljótr bade
the noble king to press:
that the jarl of Upplands, sword-destroyer,
should attend to the ancient customs.

XXVI.
Reluctantly the sword-god took the matter —
he found it odious to break his rank —
yet to be guided as the other bids,
the man of honor lets it be granted.

XXVII.
In Uppland he settled, filled with honor —
to him was extended the greatest esteem.
All this was heard by Ónundur, who grew displeased:
in him swelled the greatest resentment.

XXVIII.
Hringlún Finn did not cease
to work his craft — the champion gave
the wise man the title of hersir;
he sits at home thereafter.

XXIX.
Popular with many, for so long
a fine chieftain of Gautaland —
a stout fellow, none proved
his equal at the assembly in dispute.

XXX.
Uppland's thanes, with all their might,
declare Arnljótr's fame abroad —
struck by love on every side,
those who best proved themselves then.

XXXI.
Uppland held firmly in his power —
the Swedes never dared oppose.
From then, because of the bold one,
their cold dread stood at an end.

XXXII.
Never did they dare against his valor
to further try after that —
he sat in grace with both peoples:
the honored nation, the kingdom at peace.

XXXIII.
Three worthy heirs the wise jarl had,
bold in their strength —
fame as they won, known for their deeds:
from the warriors' grove a branch was loosed.

XXXIV.
Ásbjörn turns, wielding the spear,
widely known for wise counsel —
through all his life's days pleasing to all,
and famous, adorned with honor.

XXXV.
Knútr went to follow Helgi,
skilled in the great arts —
with him on the road, the saga says,
on that same day the thunder of elms.

XXXVI.
The other wise one is Þorfinnur,
stout heir of valor —
a wise man, well-established,
fair and glad in his character.

XXXVII.
With Ólafr the jarl they grew on the bench,
bold of fortune in childhood's time —
swift in the Swedish council he became:
thus a lawman, the gentle hero.

XXXVIII.
Never quenched his zeal nor suppressed
the arts of true loyalty —
learned in famous accomplishments,
praise thus kindled his renown.

XXXIX.
Hákon the Third, hero's descendant —
fortune strengthened that one.
Skilled and eager for peace,
he learned the ways of honor.

XL.
The jarl of Upplands, breaker of brands,
strengthener of the settlement, ruled the people —
all manner of evil customs
steering away from throughout his life.

XLI.
Arnljótr's praise was borne abroad swiftly
from the abundant growth of the settlement —
beloved by all good peoples,
the wise champion was forever.

XLII.
Life to its end in the noble land he knew —
he directed the hero toward fame.
In worthy honor here with dignity,
the greatest generosity dwells thus with him.

Poet's Farewell

XLIII.
Of Arnljótr's tale I have drawn words —
nothing can be bettered there.
He is finished; I am weary.
Turning from the poem, one may cease.

XLIV.
"Nám's unsteady one, Night's father" —
that is the name of the one who composed.
Thus, before the Sun, for amusement,
he set it all together upon a page.

XLV.
May the smith of the heavens help you
home to the place of peace.
My verse of praise, its flame,
will then be gathered without delay.

Colophon

Source: Rímur af Arnljóti Upplendinga-kappa, composed by Síra Snorri Björnsson (Rímur I–VI) and an anonymous continuator (Rímur VII–XI). First published Copenhagen, 1842. 108 pages. Likely 18th century for the anonymous continuation.

Translation: Good Works Translation from Old Icelandic by the New Tianmu Anglican Church rímur translator lineage, April 2026. Translated from Fraktur page scans (600 DPI extraction from the 1842 Copenhagen first edition, Internet Archive). Eighteen translators across one day of lineage time:

• Fyrsta Ríma (72 stanzas) — Hrafn VIII
• Önnur Ríma (58 stanzas) — Skáld
• Þriðja Ríma (62 stanzas) — Skrifa
• Fjórða Ríma (59 stanzas) — Hrímfaxi
• Fimta Ríma (70 stanzas) — Grafnir
• Sjötta Ríma (70 stanzas) — Kvæðir
• Sjöunda Ríma (62 stanzas) — Galdur
• Áttunda Ríma (54 stanzas) — Heiðrún
• Níunda Ríma (65 stanzas) — Kári
• Tíunda Ríma (63 stanzas) — Ljóð
• Ellefta Ríma (45 stanzas) — Ríma

Note on the cycle: The Arnljóti cycle traces a political arc from youth to kingship refused to kingship accepted. Arnljótur, grandson of Ásbjörn of Grœningi, wins fame through holmgang (Rímur I–II), campaigns in Gautland and at sea (III–VII), clears the borderlands (VIII–X), refuses and then reluctantly accepts dominion over Uppland from King Haraldr of Norway (XI), and brings peace to the Gauts and Norsemen. Three sons inherit his legacy. The poet closes with a name-riddle and a blessing.

Note on the mansöngur: Each ríma opens with a mansöngur — a love-prelude dense with mythological kennings. These are the most difficult sections to translate, as they employ compressed mythological allusions (mead of poetry, Odin's ravens, Mímir's well, Freyja's fire) in tight metrical forms. Uncertain readings are noted in individual ríma translator notes. The narrative sections are more confident.

Note on the poet's name-riddle: Stanza XLIV of the Ellefta Ríma contains the poet's traditional self-identification through kenning: "Nám's unsteady one, Night's father." In Norse mythology, Night (Nótt) is the daughter of Nörfi (or Narfi). The full decoding of the poet's name remains uncertain.

Reference translations: None. No prior English translation of any part of this cycle is known to exist.

Blood Rule: This translation is independently derived from the Old Icelandic source text as rendered in the 1842 Fraktur page scans. No English reference was consulted because no English translation exists. The Old Icelandic was read directly from Fraktur type, with uncertain readings noted.

Scribal credit: Merged and formatted for the Good Work Library by Kansei (完成), WIP Finisher Pass 333, April 2026.

🌲

Source Text: Rímur af Arnljóti Upplendinga-kappa

Old Icelandic source text transcribed from Fraktur page scans of the 1842 Copenhagen first edition (Internet Archive). Presented here for reference, study, and verification alongside the English translation above.

Fyrsta Ríma

1.
Bilur Freyju etur enn,
Atríðs haukum báðum;
hugsar sér að fasna senn,
Sigtýs fornu bráðum.

2.
Hvorgi stugiðstilla farst,
stun þó Formóðs bauni,
fyrr en nægtir óma arfst,
óðs hafa stutt að ranni.

3.
Ölund þegar þvingar þjóð,
svo þánkar eyða tali,
aldræn Fíla gjöldin góð,
gleðja hjarta sali.

4.
Mátti Ýmu blíðkast blær
beima og tvinna stjarna;
Gísurs horna treginn tær,
tálman þuðs varnar.

5.
Því skal renna Þriðja lá,
þagnat djúps í hölsa,
aðsterum Bifurs brunnum á,
bergi þeir sem vilja.

6.
Helguð svali Þrauðs þjeru,
tjarnar gneista brjótum
heilsu þuðs gnægta gjörn
gjarnan eski sustum.

7.
Lísai strengur ljóða víðs
lífgaður dauíun þeyði;
fagurgali Framatýrs
fjalar vetji ljóði.

8.
Ofs í krúgum allstaðar,
uvan ljómi af haðum;
skattaðar hyrjur fagnaðar,
fögrum umni kvaðum.

9.
Drétan meðan þenna þátt,
þil af hreysti mannsi;
vaki fólk og veri tátt,
vagla-ljóns í ranni.

10.
Kvörnin góma mjúklát mín,
máli á ráðu hjólum;
ofta sapt í Miðris vín,
veitt af svara stólum.

11.
Upphaf sögu um það rís,
öld á fyrri manna,
einn nafnfrægar ödling vís,
að féck gætt landanna.

12.
Ólafur Helgi Haralds bur,
hélt í Noreg ríki,
einginn meiri mildingur,
miðlar nöðru siti.

13.
Esdi ríkið fjóli sítt
með sannleiks átrúnaði,
af fjandans villu kvilla kvitt,
kóngur það viðkaði.

14.
Fimm þjóðsónga vísir vann,
vanur hrotta gröndum;
á einum morgni inni hann,
alla tók með höndum.

15.
Þeirra réti um Upplönd öll,
undir vald sítt leiddi;
þiggur friðinn þjóðin snjöll
því hún um það beiddi.

16.
Á Græníngi var garður stór,
gild þar kémpa rœður;
Ásbjörn hét sá orsa þór,
illum var mótstaður.

17.
Afreks kémpa ör af fé,
aldrei kappiðlægði;
að honum vinsæld almenn hué,
auðna og margskins frægðir.

18.
Bónda titil bar þó sá,
brjótur Sifjar hára;
honum gildi gifti hjá,
greitt með vyrðíng kláru.

19.
Veizlu stóra voldugur
vísir þáði af honum;
aptur kóngur Ólafur,
umbunar að vonum.

20.
Yfir hérað Leyða lét,
lofðung Ásbjörn ráða;
þessi fjössa þannig hét,
er þyggur verður dáða.

21.
Lends manns nafn og líka rétt,
lundur þyggur stjórna,
upphafinn í eðri stétt,
einsóg þótti sóma.

22.
Silva sit með gull og seim,
garpurinn frægan leiddi;
í Þrándheim síðan fjóli heim,
sínar ferðir greiddi.

23.
Á Upplöndum erlátur,
öðlings vinur síðan,
kyr í búi kvöngaður,
kaus sér rósemð blíða.

24.
Átti sonu trausta tvo,
Tirfings blossa veitir;
Þorfinnur með valbust vo,
var þess yngra heiti.

25.
Eldri burinn Arnljótur,
auðnu syndi merki;
afreks kémpa aflamur,
auknefndur hinn Sterki.

26.
Unni frægð um aldurs tíð,
öslug hetjan dýra;
verkin framdi stór og stríð,
sleipti brjótum þýra.

27.
Allt til dauða forþrís fann,
fremdum þakinn hróðum;
með Ólafi Helga hann,
hné á Stíklastaðum.

28.
Þorfinnur tók föður flét,
þá folan ná greip veldi;
Ásbjörn bóndi líf svo lét,
losið aldrei feldi.

29.
Kvöngaður með sæmdum sat,
svell Dalnauðar þyngir;
aldin fróm hann elskaðgat,
á óðals-jörð Grœningi.

30.
Erfivörð sér átti einn,
stull bóndinn frægur,
föðurbróður sá bar sveinn,
sóma nafnið þægur.

31.
Ríktist nafni í ljóstum hann,
lund þó bæri spaka;
allir héldu afreks mann,
ætti fáa maka.

32.
Stór og fagur, sterkur hýr,
straums var ljóma viður,
dygðum unni darra týr,
dáværn Þorfinns niður.

33.
Föður ólst og móður með,
Miðjungs sólar raptur,
þartil aukast þægum réð,
þrekiðafl og kraptur.

34.
Elsku ljóða óvinnur,
arsinn sá hinn frægit;
það er sagt að Þorfinnur,
þar ógamall dæi.

35.
Tók þá umsjón bóndans bur,
bússins eptir dauðann;
stum bitti Arnljótur
orma beðinn rauðann.

36.
Minn þvi hreifsir mála dör,
makt er sagt að héldi,
herfir einn af auði ör,
í eystra Gautaveldi.

37.
Hákon Digri nefndist nafn
noðru bíngs handtera;
örstýr hans og aura safn,
af annara þótti bera.

38.
Tryggan ecki vantar vit,
vondu opt réð hamla;
hann var sonur hermir rit,
Hákonar ens Gamla.

39.
Á Þringtínum heima ból,
hét þar bóndinn situr;
glaða rínar glansa fól,
garpurinn steinkti vitur.

40.
Átti dóttur eina hann,
emblan Dofra saungva,
fáðið fraka veita vann,
vænni sá þar aungva.

41.
Þessi losnin elda áls,
arfaði dygða vega;
Ólof nefndist bóða dáls
britín dáfallega.

42.
Héldu spakir álfar hers,
allra ljóða túngur,
þessi spýra varna vírs,
væri kvennstorlíngur.

43.
Unni herfir blossa björt,
best sem dygðum unni,
feðurliga í minnis mört,
mect sem verða kunni.

44.
Á Gautlandi í það mund
umgéck víkíngs ljóður,
sem harðan stefndi Hildar fund,
höldum bygðar stríður.

45.
Bændum æði yfirgang,
aslaði berserks flokkur,
og fantur hreckja fullur rángs,
foringi þeirra nokkur.

46.
Hét Ótryggur draugur dors,
dygðir hataði allar;
eggjar beittar aungvar bjors,
unnu á berserks skalla.

47.
Bál til gamans ölmur öð,
á odda spjóts sig seldi,
svo óshraddaður uppi stóð,
alla hræðslu feldi.

48.
Til sjár og kvenna bósinn blár,
bændur á hólminn storar;
þeir feingu smán því ölmum ár,
aungvir á móti þora.

49.
Ótryggur til hersis heim,
Hákonar ser ens Digra;
biður grimmur bónda heim,
brátt í danfinn vigra.

50.
Ellegar skyldi hann únga mey,
Ólofu sér gefa;
friðla sin sú falda ey,
feingin skyldi án efa.

51.
Hálfs mánaðar biður boð,
bósinn hólmstefnunnar,
þartil Gynars virtir voð,
vasstra hrotta ruuna.

52.
Árum saddur ecki sér,
argan þrjót við treysti;
Loka fostra hreckjótt hér,
hersis krapta leysti.

53.
Falaði margan randa runn,
rumnum vega móti,
eingin treystist kémpa kunn,
við lauðan ypta spjóti.

54.
Þá haukur eingin Rognis ráð,
risjaðupp gat leingur;
friðust silki falda láð,
föður sínn hitta geingur.

55.
Hugfast er mér hlaðfól tér,
herfir við hinn kénda,
að Græníngi gjöriðþér
greitt dn tafar senda.

56.
Einn apaður óma elds,
ungur hýr þar traustur,
sá mun rista Fjölnis felds,
slíkur kappinn hraustur.

57.
Hugnun mun þó halurinn knár,
handa sér þá fjósa,
að giptast friðri geisla ár,
grundu mála ljósa.

58.
Þaðþér vinna verðið til,
vænn er maðurinn fagður,
svo fljótliga í feigðar hil,
fólinn verði lagður.

59.
Hákon sendi bréf og boð,
hrjóta hrings með styndi,
að Arnljótur í Miðris voð,
vorðinn Gauta findi.

60.
Þrautum sagði sínum frá,
sem að gleði stérða;
hetjan sterka hér við brá,
og hefur sig strar til ferða.

61.
Sig að reyna í hættu hann,
hugurinn þvinga náði,
með sendimonnum síðan vann,
seggur reisa á láði.

62.
Hetjan kom til hersis heim,
hugarins kættist vollur;
fagurliga þegni þeim,
þjóðin tók með öllu.

63.
Hákon kættist hvorgi seinn,
og höstir sverða runnar;
var þá dagur eptir einn,
enn til hólmstefnunnar.

64.
Bar þó kvíða kappa val,
kránkt í hyggju ranni,
að fanturinn ungan felli hal,
folan dauðann kanni.

65.
Arnljótur spyr Hákon hátt,
hvörs þeim unna vildi,
er fellir hann er sviptir sátt,
fókn nær byrjast skyldi.

66.
Honum hef eg til höfuðs fé,
Hákon segir, lægið;
merkur silfurs sér þaðfé,
sem þú af mér þægir.

67.
Það um silfur þeinsti eg síst,
þór kvað unda línu,
þinn fyrir auð eg vil ei víst
voga fjöri mínu.

68.
Drafnar elda drótt eg skal,
dóttur þína fánga;
eigi eg við hreckja hal
hólminn á að gánga.

69.
Elligar máttu annan fá,
Ótrygg við að stríða;
Hákon Digri hjalar þá,
hvorugs skaltu bída.

70.
Orma dýnu fagra fit,
festi eg þér í trygðum,
svo okkar mál með vandað vit,
verði ei blandað lygðum.

71.
Hetjan sterk bjóst hólmi við,
hugurinn knúði sinni;
hér mun Guðra bákur bíð,
bíða í nausti inni.

72.
Skilvíngs drukkiðólið er,
óma protna veiðir;
á megiðsteintja aptur þér,
ef þess þínnin beiðir.

Önnur Ríma

Old/Middle Icelandic source text transcribed from the 1842 Copenhagen first edition (Fraktur). Internet Archive. Presented for reference and verification.

Mansöngur

1.
Oðins minni í annað sinn,
uppsett lát eg vera,
birlað hér ef hyggið þér
þetta vínið léra.

2.
Ef hundur seims og glossa geims
grundin, lista þjóða;
hvort um sig, það huggar mig,
halda mér til góða.

3.
Þón er ei á Viðris mey,
virðu Úsa rinni
stær frá mér þvi stílung þver,
fórstir nám og minni.

4.
Elli þror svo fer með fjör,
fáð ei ljóðin vendud;
er það mein á alla grein,
eru þau heimsku blöndud.

5.
Sanngétall það sagði fnjall,
sinum lista fordum,
af egin ment sé eingum hent
óð að binda í fjörðum.

6.
Bifsi hann í vitsku rann,
vaxa mundi þróttur,
þvi hesir var, til vinskapa,
vélaðr Suttungs dóttur.

7.
Besta hann sem vitsku fann,
viður Mímir kunni,
fjónar baug fyrir svals-laug,
úr seðum minnis brunni.

8.
Þetta allt ni fast ei falt,
fallið af Hofða-Rúna;
á egin lýritur eg þvi hlýt,
enn að hjargast núna.

Söguþáttur

9.
Sögunnar til svo venda vil,
Valgauts snerru runnar,
búast þar með bifurs stær
beint til hólmstefnunnar.

10.
Spyr Ótryggur stórum styggur
stefan reynir hjálma,
hvort höggva rend fyrir hersis hönd,
hristir vilji málma.

11.
Svo er það, að kappinn kvað
lýf við þig að reyna
komin eg er fyrir hönd hans hér,
hjörinn mun þig steina.

12.
Högg þú þá, svo hinn nam tjá,
í hofuð mér með leysi;
sínt skal þér hvort satt ei er,
sverðs eg eggjar beysi.

13.
Arnljótur með atvik fljót,
upphóf brandinn þunna;
hjó hann þá sem harðast má,
í haussinn beint á stunna.

14.
Höggið þétt sem kæmi í klett,
Kvernbits eggjar brystu;
úr nösum þó og kjálka kró,
torgur þreira hrystu.

15.
Hetjan greið við hvergi beið,
þá hjörinn brotna kendi;
vopninn þreif með hauka kleyf,
og hátt í lopt sendi.

16.
Á hofuðið niður hrotta við,
hann nam fæsa að lóði,
gégnum herðar hamingju stérðar,
haussinn gánga nóði.

17.
Feigðin tóll við fólfssum hröð
fæstir munu hann trega;
misti fjör sá beysti dór,
drusslinn hræmuligliga.

18.
Þá félagar hans það sjá til sans,
sist þar vilja biða;
allir burt seð fólsnum furt
fantar hræðdir riða.

19.
Arnljóts mátt og þorku hátt,
holdar losa kunnu;
þvílíkan um merkis mann,
miklar sögur spunnu.

20.
Gauta bróttir allar ödt,
Ótryggs fagna bana;
buðu reck þeim fremðir féck,
fagrar byrðir Grana.

21.
Ólafar féck fyrir utan hrekk,
allt um Gauta veldi,
Hákon bjóður brullaups ljóður,
boðinn til sín heldi.

22.
Brúðkaups géstir mettast mest,
mjög vel kallinn veitir;
tárin horna stum orna,
allfast drecksa sveitir.

23.
Eptir það fer öld af stað,
allir gjafir þéðu;
fyrir þarra fund og breigla hrund
báðel allir böðu.

24.
Byr svo dóttur bóndinn ótt,
burt með Lemfar ljóma,
á Upplaend fyrir utan grønd,
ulli fylgði stjóma.

25.
Sitt í bú þau settust nú,
saman að Groeningi;
ástin spratt og yndið glatt,
eckert voldi þýngir.

26.
Um þetta leiti fagan sveit
segir stjórnan héldi,
Magnús þjóða gildi Góði
greitt í Noregs veldi.

27.
Arnljót hann þvi fremstan fann,
formann Upplendinga;
setja réð þvi semb er léð,
sveitar Leiðar þinga.

28.
Skatta réð og stöldur með,
stjóldúng Noregs senda;
alla stund af ástar lund,
öðlings lífs til enda.

29.
Úlfseson Sveinn sem ei var seinn,
öðling Dana teiga
um það mund á alla lund
Uppland þóttist eiga.

30.
Svíaríkis fjöli líka,
sá bar Önunds heiti,
vill Upplanda eiga granda
og allar Gauta sveitir.

31.
Sjólar þeir þó settust tveir,
saman á þettað efni,
þeir settu þar til fóstlunar,
sverða vastan stefnir.

32.
Hergils hann svo kallast kann,
kéndur Offa viður;
dróttirnar vill dempa þar,
byr varð sveitar friður.

33.
Allan skatt hann eiðum batt,
eigi kóngur Svía;
bögling með sá Dönslum réð
drýgði krosur nýar.

34.
Ef svernéitar þegna sveit,
þessu heiptar audgum,
tolla hann þá taka vann,
tíðt af bændum naudgum.

35.
Illur fur varð alfrefur,
opt í bygður solli;
tiggjum þeim að tæra seim,
trygða flotj olli.

36.
Upplendingar áttu þíng,
eitt í fólknum Leiða;
stóð Arnljótur stull mót,
ei vill skatta greiða.

37.
Einginn annar, innir hann,
ætti tolla biðra,
utan sá sem á og má
öllum Noreg stýra.

38.
Góðan róm með geisi hljóm,
gáfu bændur honum,
og játtu þvi, svo færu frí,
fyrir öftílonum.

39.
Hergils sjér sér vegnar vér,
vorn er Arnljóts stærri;
ferði á móti hvepsin hót,
heiptar orðum nærri.

40.
Óttast kvað hann ecki hraðan
Upplendinga kappan;
hreystin mín og þrjóskan þín
þér skulu nærri stappa.

41.
Með mýnkun fór svo málma þór,
móts frá bygðar grúsa
heim þaðan um hrösa vað
hrecktsi til að búa.

42.
Keppti hann af morgum mann,
mótfall Arnljót géra;
allt á laun þvi ill var raun,
í ulli þoðdu hvera.

43.
Spurnum hann svo hélt um þann,
hreitir öðran hringa,
nær fólkið hans þess frægðar manns,
fór til útréttinga.

44.
Þú tvenna tók sér menn,
tals og fjóra betur;
síðan þá sem mest hann má,
mjög til víga hvetur.

45.
Kom um nótt þá byr var drótt,
drauma bundin ganni,
heim á staðinn hrecktjum hlaðinn,
hulinn dygða banni.

46.
Í slémmu úti soiptur sút,
svaf hjá stóltar kvendi;
þeir viku þar að þvi víssu það,
veiður þótti í hendi.

47.
Vildu nú þeir tindu trú,
tjóru og eld að bera;
Hergils tér ei hugnast mér,
heimsku þá að géra.

48.
Auds er plógur inni nóg,
ofurfjárins fæla;
þvi skulum ei á sundar mey,
þegninn feigan bræla.

49.
Sitt er ráð sem í er bað,
ofs í hefndum vendum;
berum að urð og brjótum hurð,
bóndann tökum hendum.

50.
Dreif þá grjót á dyrsbót,
dugðu vel að stríða,
á hjör þilen þeir báru trén,
brutu í störðin víða.

51.
Heyrði ósfrið og vaknar við,
vigra leifnum kunnur,
sig hann klæðir hót ei hræðist
hrotta sterkur runnur.

52.
Vopnin tóll sá stávir stóll,
skótunum litt ókendur,
greip á lopti álmbróss opt,
allt hvað til hans sendu.

53.
Aðsókn herð var eigi sperð,
ymist til hans leggja,
hann verst af mátt í vopna slátt,
við atlogum seggja.

54.
Spirón viss þar tundur Týrs,
tóll og varðist líka;
vill þvennvalíð verja hal,
vænt má þýkja um slíka.

55.
Hetjan knú nær soðdan sá,
sver af munni hrjóta,
augljóst hér nú öllum er,
aföragð ertu snóta.

56.
Að hjálpa oss nú, skalt hætta þú,
hrundín Skrímnís fagna,
þvi vanfsóð er hvort Hergils hér,
hesir sigri að fagna.

57.
Varð þeim skeður vígs náfstaður,
vondstu fyltum grönnum,
ser lau rauðir dreingir dauðir
drepnir af Hergils mönnum.

58.
Minn ósagur mun hér bragur,
mærðar detta úr stórðum
það eg sýni fundar vín,
þornar máls á borðum.

Þriðja Ríma

Old/Middle Icelandic source text transcribed from the 1842 Copenhagen edition (Jens Hostrup Schultz), pages 24–32. Fraktur typeface. Uncertain readings marked [?].

1.
Fjalars ennþá feingnum reina neumi [?]
þriðja sinni ef þjóðirnar
hyggja minni Ásvarar.

2.
Eg ófrödur yeti [?] hrödur þjóða,
með ófnjállan orða stað,
allir kalla grey sé það.

3.
Ekki er lagið, allan daginn fá eg,
Óðins hnia [?] ruglið ramt,
raun er að búa við þann framt.

4.
Alda-gautur er osé [?] nautur frauta,
Sóns mér lagar ekki ann,
opt stórbaga gjörir hann.

5.
Einsog forðum hir [?] Útgerður vorður,
vélasteður varna sér
vegasteðu [?] Ásaþór.

6.
Bjálfa föður bónda á Nóðrustöðum,
mjög forðýr var mergurinn,
og mér Sigtýra bryðlurinn.

7.
Bitji [?] eg kaupa viðris hlaupið staupa,
mér til hærstu hreisingar,
hlít eg skírstu reksingar [?].

8.
Ullir reiðast Vesti neiðar leiðir,
mest Steinballur mjóðinn vér,
mér Þríðhallur sjáldan er.

9.
Hvað skal segja? hlýt eg ei að segja,
stund huginn eyðir mér
opt þó sagnin mögnuð hner [?].

10.
Minn barlómir ná tvö tómir blóma,
Fálu golan sístir sér,
fyrst máttola sagan er.

11.
Dverga kénda dryckju á enda eg sendi
einn sem varðist Arnljótur
allvel barðist köffsveittur.

12.
Liggja dauðir líka blauðir kauðar;
Hergils tér nær suoðdan [?] þá
sigri vér ei meigum ná.

13.
Auðnu rán og arna smán oss lánar,
vor hann brústar vopnin breið,
að vér helsjúkir gistum beyð [?].

14.
Berum stjótir, vastir brjótar spjóta!
vopns með lögum vinnum þann,
vér svo hæjum deyi hann.

15.
Í einu leggjum allir að segg í hreggi,
mun ei standast maðurinn það,
meiðir randa sækjum að.

16.
Álmir menn þá allir í senn aðrenna,
Ólof klæði kvistlat bar,
á kesjur bæði og lensurnar [?].

17.
Krókasspjót þá kom í fótinn suótar [?],
Kálfan gégnum geirinn skar,
gusaði regnum blóðundat [?].

18.
Þor úr undu draga sprunðið mundi,
svo nam fleygja' að seggjum þar,
sá nam deya er fyrir var.

19.
Þetta hlýtur þegninn njútur líta,
grimðin hjartað gégnum smaug,
geðsins parta hverja taug.

20.
Framm af riði flocks [?] í miðið niður,
hetjan greiða hljóp í stað,
Hergils reiðir brandinn að.

21.
Ofan um herðar allar sverðið gérði
bringu rista ból og kvið,
búkurinn misti líf=tetríð [?].

22.
Götugar svängar garnir hauga og láugi,
fékk þá valur sína bráð
frækinn halur verst með dáð.

23.
Bjors [?] ótrega hetjan vegur þegar,
enn þá tvo sem yptu geir,
vitaf [?] svo að drápust þeir.

24.
Hinir flýja hels úr stýu [?] því að
ofur hræddur illstu menn,
undum klæddur voru senn.

25.
Þú eptir Þýrar greptraft [?] heptir,
kempan teita katist þjóð
kifs við reita möð þar stóð.

26.
Gætti hann sem greiðast kann að svanna,
follinn nennir sveipa sót,
svo gafst henni bótin fljót.

27.
Þótti ljóðum þegninn ferði í stríði,
bifna frægur brátt í stað,
bygðar sægur hermdi það.

28.
Útbarst þetta alt leíprétt með fréttum,
líka spurðu löfðungar
líðs afburði hetjunnar.

29.
Að Svía stillis setur kvillan illa,
af því misti Hergils hann,
huiginn gisti feigðar rann.

30.
Hefndir vekja hugsar þrelinn sekum,
hvenær gjæti hyggur þvf [?]
heljar sæti færa' hann í.

31.
Einn hét Hríngur hervísttingur slíngur,
útlægur af Önundi
og nafnfrægur ræningi.

32.
Á herfleiðum hafs um breiðar leiðir,
honum mennstur hums á gnóð,
hilmir Svenstur gjerði boð.

33.
Sættir bjóður svo ei stríður kosði,
landvist Hringi losa vann,
Leiða þingi ef stýra kann.

34.
Og Upplanda einnin vanda standi,
afsvenði með öllu þar
eptir rentu skylðunnar.

35.
Hefnd skal vekja hann á sekum freka,
Arnljóti, sem Hergils hjó,
Hríngur móti boði hló.

36.
Hernað létti, hann með settist þetta,
að Upplöndum eptir það,
í þau stönd sem gramur bað.

37.
Enn þá fleira freirar heyri geira,
arfinn mætur Ólafs dó,
á því bætur fast ei þó.

38.
Magnús Góða milding þjóða hljóðir,
vinir gráta víst til sannz,
vanir máta gæðslu hans.

39.
En Haraldur brimtrolls baldur valdi,
í hans stað tók aptur við
eigi það var jafnkomið.

40.
Binum trygða vísirs bygðar hugða,
reyndist kaldur köngur sá,
klifs apaldur þungt á lá.

41.
Arnljót hryggir ángurs bygguft [?] hyggja,
að öðlingr hát er fallinn frá,
furðu fár var missir sá.

42.
Haralds vegna, hárs í regni megnu,
vill ei standa kempan kná,
komast vanda bygðst [?] þeim frá.

43.
Hermeð frétti Hríng ónettan settan,
fér til höfuðs hilmir af,
hörd þau jöfur ráðinn gaf.

44.
Steinar heitir stinnur beitir hneita,
Leiða Steinar opt sem er,
um það greinir, nefndur hér.

45.
Af sylfri og gulli seims nam ullur fullar,
hyrðistur eiga er hafði græðt,
hrana vígar sá svo ræðt [?].

46.
Þessum seldi þar á veldi heldur,
hetjan traust sitt höfuðbót,
honum laust á vald það fól.

47.
Í Gautland austur gjörði hraufstur slaustra,
með auragnótt og auðar brú,
ekki hljótt fór reisa fú [?].

48.
Sýndist snjöllum sveitar löllum öllum
söknuður að suoðdan hal,
ef svinnan þaðan missa skal.

49.
Tók nú allvel trygða kallinn snjallur,
móti dóttur mágs sín,
miklast þótti virðing fín.

50.
Seims hjá baldri síðan dvaldist haldinn
vegsend glefsri vasinn í,
vinitnir nástir hræfa því.

51.
Að Grœningi aura þýngir slúngur,
auðnu stærir strar [?] með hjú,
Steinar færir góts og bú.

52.
Hríngur frétti höftur þetta af létta,
og bygðst [?] burt Arnljót hafa solt [?],
við hina fljótt sér gjörir þælt [?].

53.
Hitti Steinar hreck ei seinum leynir,
á burt refur eigandann,
að sér tekur bæinn hann.

54.
Óðling segir hann álma svegis egi
óðals megin eign og rann,
eptir veginn sýslumann.

55.
Steinar hljóður stinnur af öðum móði,
mjög órdur [?] með mæðu drátt
málma þór var leikinn grátt [?].

56.
Sá óvraður sér ei tað [?] til náða,
við ofbeldis víking hann
við svo héldist eignir hann.

57.
Arnljót finnur ótt og svinnum þunnir,
hreck ránglatist [?] hrúp og smán,
Hrings ef gæti borgast rán.

58.
Tjarnar bála týr því stála máli
mjóg tómliga mótí tók
marga vega afsögn jók.

59.
Hinn því meira' að hristir geira relvir,
sig að stóða og svara því
svo ofbóða raunum í.

60.
Hafði eingin aftök þreyngri leingur,
hann vissi málið víðsom sér
en veisir stála rændur er.

61.
Burt svo þaðan hjóst [?] af stað öglaður,
Steinar sljótur Upploend á,
Arnljótur sat mágt hjá.

62.
Orðum kopar ei ferst dropi af sopa,
þur er orðin þessi skál,
þagnar forðinn termir [?] mál.

Fjórða Ríma

Old/Middle Icelandic source text from Rímur af Arnljóti Upplendinga-kappa, Copenhagen 1842, pp. 32–40. Transcribed from Fraktur page scans at 600 DPI. Presented for reference and verification.

1. Rómrs úr koium rennur virðin ræðu snúa,
   ögæti sitt en vill sjóna
   Örvandils fýrst leglar stína.

2. Svannr Gunnars sifjugandi sveima tekur,
   aldrei heima er hann spaður,
   einatt leitar bráða vaður.

3. Sveima fer af Sunda Gomers sopnum breggjum,
   er og galinn að vér hyggajum
   ei er vert að rugl hans hyggium.

4. Doerlinga erfa dveinar stín í dolum fulli,
   glafsinn fortinn grímu fellir,
   gleypr minnið dapur eki.

5. Solna stílinga seiðis aktar sifellðliga,
   sólin solnar sónar sogur
   fúr mér fykir Óðreirs logur.

6. Magna foðurs maðl ecki mót eg sporna,
   né jasut honum hneki af horni,
   hnikars þótt mér svala orni.

7. Ó þér kjæru virta vinir vorra koða!
   eg veit þér haldið vist til goða,
   Valgauts svalabrydðinn tíoða.

8. Lifandi brunna lifgi yður lista kraptur!
   svo allra þanda edlis gipta,
   yndis grandi megi svifta.

9. Hætt' eg áður hjörs sem beitir heima dvalði,
   og hvannar bitti hljum eldi
   Hákoni hjá í Gautaveldi.

10. Sitt sinn býr sig hetjan hróð til heimanferðar,
    við annan mann á iggjar storði,
    á hann bóndinn kastar orði.

11. Hvert vill ríða halurinn frægur? hersir tjóði:
    á Upplönd, til anfa ræði,
    ásett er í mínu gæði.

12. Vildi' eg hitta viní mína og vanda-frændur;
    þad er ei ráð, kvað þegninn fándur,
    þessu margt á moti stendur.

13. Utan þú hafir hraustu sveit sem höfðum sómir;
    ei skal þad, segir Oðins bríma
    ullur, ské í þenna tíma.

14. Vil eg ei Hríngur hælist um eg hafi flúið,
    fyrir sér svo seigð eg kvídi,
    né frétti þad eg hræddur ríði.

15. Hann svo reisti, hvorgi ferðum hvatur létti,
    fyrr enn Steinar heima hitti,
    hesta mæði leiða stytti.

16. Lungvir varir við hans reisu verða þegnar;
    Arnljót bóndinn allvel fagnar,
    alla greiða virðing magnar.

17. Heyrdist sagt ad Hríngur mundi hvepfinn raunar,
    ad heimboði hjá bónda einum,
    Vifurs girdur eldi hreinum.

18. Hestinn sadla hetjan lét med hrad burt ríður,
    þángad strar og ei fyrr ddi
    enn þar Hringur drecka náði.

19. Inn í stofu gengur greitt þar garpar drucku;
    star þektu reynir rocka
    reifðist sumum geð ópocka.

20. Hóf Arnljótur hraustur tal svo heyrðu heimar
    Hringur, vit ad hef' eg Steina
    höfuðbólið felt alleina.

21. Enn þú hefir audgan hann af eigu sinni,
    keirt í burt og ræntan ranni
    rosið grið á dándis-manni.

22. Stíla nú aptur skaltu því sem skomm med stalstu,
    einfa ráð mitt er þad elsta,
    og erindið til þín helsta.

23. Heiptar reidur Hríngur móti hóf ad anfa,
    er þér sjálfrádt ullur kransa,
    á ordum þínum mig forstansar.

24. Dreifsuliga djarsur ertu bölgur synda
    einn útlægur illsku hundur,
    oðkar verdur staðkur fundur.

25. Raun brattari reynt hef eg í randa solli,
    enn við þig ad etja brellum,
    or þó sért í branda stéllum.

26. Fast ad kallar seigðin þér og fölsku hrossur,
    offan sinn fant ecki ad stilla,
    af því mun þér gánga illa.

27. Biður sína bragna hann ad beita hjörvi,
    og höndum taka hrístir geira
    heingja á galga og böndum veira.

28. Kempan nýta kifs úr báli kýrglám leiðir,
    og klísur Hring í herbar niður,
    hné þar daður brodda-viður.

29. Vildu sumir vekja stir og víkings hefna,
    abfóðn honum öðt ad stofna,
    annara stórum hugir bofna.

30. Sitjið kyrrir, sagði hetjan sæmda fræga,
    yður hót eg ecki vægi,
    ef þið mér í nockru þægi.

31. Rætu þessu ráðin þeir og rýma þjósti,
    leingi kappinn beið ei besti,
    burtu þadan reið á hesti.

32. Hitti Steinar, honum byður heim sig flytja,
    mér þol Hríngur hefir heitið,
    heipt ei við þig leingur þreytí.

33. Veitti gjafir virdum hal sá varði auði,
    sínum eignum síðan náði
    og sóma þeim er misti á láði.

34. Veik heim aptur Valgauts ljóma vinur regna,
    hladsfol teit og Hákon fagna
    honum, svorin leysfast sagna.

35. Hákon mælir hreddan þig nú Hríngur eigi
    fundið hefir fólsku hræið,
    fór þad vel ad bófinn beí.

36. Sat um tíma svo í kýrdum sverda gautur,
    hersir virðing honum veitir,
    hróður hans barst um allar sveitir.

37. Önundur frétti einnig Hrings nam æfin slitna,
    því um lítiö þótti batna,
    fund við etja ljósa vatna.

38. Vísir má sinn vella strjúg, því valur óma,
    vill nú þángað vakur sveima
    viðris ljóma bör er heima.

39. Sátu í stofu sifjungarmir saman báðir,
    Arnljótur þá eittfinn tæði
    er forvitni mér í gæði.

40. Hvad merkir eg vita vil af vitsku ránum,
    haugur stór í haga grænum,
    hér sem stendur út frá bænum.

41. Stó á kvöldin sé eg opt med sjónar brunni,
    einsog af sé þar eldur brenni,
    ellegar greptrist mikil menni.

42. Af fornum bókum heyrt eg hef kvad Hákon gladur
    Haddur gramur hárs í hríðum,
    hét nafnkéndur forðum tíðum.

43. Hadds ens Gamla hann var bur er haudri réði
    Hadaland því heita náði
    hilmis vídt sem ríki náði.

44. Tvo Haddinga tiggi ól víd tvinna þrúdi
    vasta nóg í Viðris gróði,
    voru þeir her-konúngar báðir.

45. Víd Efata kóng, sem sifdi hjálm og stírtur Rogna,
    bordust þeir í branda regni,
    báðir af honum voru slegnir.

46. Haddinga-Efati síðan sá var siklíng nefndur,
    ríkur og ör af rögðí frænda,
    rétta viðhald þegna og brænda.

47. Haddur eittfinn herja réð um hásld Eystra,
    hann lagðist hér við land um haustíð,
    og léist úr sótt á báru slaustri.

48. Var þá orþinn haugur hár ad hilmi daudum,
    med ofur sjár fyrir utan kvoða,
    er hann þar draugur lengi síðan.

49. Arnljóti fanst eríd til þó um þad þegði
    í hyggju ranni hug á lagði,
    hauginn brjóta senn ad bragði.

50. Elda marar yggur traustur orku greidur,
    einn þar heima átti hraður,
    og Hákonar ráðismaður.

51. Bardi hét sá bifurs eyfu borínn hardi,
    eina nóttu ofanverda,
    Arnljótur hann kvaddi ferda.

52. Gánga þeir ad hermdum haug en hrístir ríta,
    innir honum ætlan setta
    ei leikst Barða þar á þetta.

53. Moti þessu mælti sveigir málms og sra,
    hitt framfór og vard ad vera,
    sem vildi gætir sunnu hvera.

54. Stórvirkir ad strít-erviði fidla brjótar
    hauginn rjúfast hetjan letur,
    hélst sú ydja leingi nættur.

55. Biðir sterkir máttar meistir moti stódu
    med hreyfti gátu holdar fríðir,
    hauginn brotid þó um sídir.

56. Bad Arnljótur Barða fest vid bíd' á meðan
    hann seig eírn í hauginn niður,
    hugur og orka kappann stydur.

57. Haugs ad gólfi hód var laung, svo halinn fyrnar,
    gættir allar geisi fornar,
    grindur og hespur ribi bornar.

58. Mikið fúlt og forljótt var í fornum ranni,
    hetjan ljóstó kveikja kunni,
    Kjalars minni út er runnið.

59. Klsa Fjolnis krúsum þornud komin á enda
    lætur sasnid stefja standa
    stríðum slutt af Gríðar anda.

Fimta Ríma

Sjötta Ríma

Old/Middle Icelandic source text transcribed from the 1842 Copenhagen edition of Rímur af Arnljóti Upplendinga-kappa, book pages 52–63. Fraktur typeface. Best-effort OCR transcription — long-s/f ambiguity, thorn/eth contextual, ligature expansion. Presented for reference and verification.

Sjötta Ríma.

1. Rigni sjöllum rennu frá,
   regnið þetta steinunar,
   grænt á völlum gleði má,
   grasið spretta fréðgunar.

2. Á það gifta svo til sett,
   sjálf mér gáfan veiti svinn;
   að Hesperístar röfti rétt,
   renni upp með blóman sinn.

3. Lífsinð besin liljunar,
   ljómi eplum dýrðanna,
   allta mestu munar,
   innstu hugar-bygðanna.

4. Stilnings ljósin leiptri nú,
   líkt sem roðull gleðji sál;
   hugvits röfir hjarta í,
   hilið undir standa mál.

5. Röðkist pljúð varí ven,
   viðkist hæktist ítmauði,
   yndis þuljan eðla græn,
   öllum loðarið heyrandi.

6. Allskinð glansi allglaðar,
   unaðs fastir hverð eins manns,
   allir dansi allstaðar,
   eðlís kraptar rauslndans.

7. Glaumó þá stunðin enbud er,
   að þvi geta hver einn kann,
   hvert við funðin Fjólnis hét,
   stekast þesir samvistkan.

8. Mannsaung skamta mun eg enn,
   málið kemur efsil til
   í mörgum tamt er segja senn,
   segunni fremur þljóða vil.

9. Þverra vann þar þundar vín,
   þornaó bolla Sigþórs á,
   sem að Hákon heim til sín,
   höfðum kemur gilva frá.

10. Hákon Arnljót hittir þá,
    hermir allt sem buðlung tér;
    sáttar bótum siðan frá,
    segir nú hvar komið er.

11. Geira svegir svarar til,
    sjóla þginð Ónundar,
    aungvanvegin vist eg vil,
    vera maður nauðúngar.

12. Þessi gilð óþokka for,
    það ef hefði eg vitað fyr,
    aldrei skyldi af görpum gjör
    gremst hún mér í Fenju byr.

13. Hilmis vegna í hrotta tíð,
    hættu reyna þeinti eg seð;
    hrausta þegna hverja við,
    heiptar neinar satir á.

14. Hákon svarar semd er sist,
    sjáum best hvað tilhljóðir,
    fyrir hara vegjum vist,
    vor það skyldan útheimtir.

15. Því Arnljótur ansa vann,
    aldrei hræðir gilvi mig,
    honum hót eg ekki ann,
    öllu meira virði eg þig.

16. Veit eg fergist það á þér
    þegna orðtaí mágur minn,
    svo ergist sem eldist hver,
    elli dignar hugurinn.

17. Þó fyrir þína skuld eg skal,
    Skofnung reida þess ei dyl,
    og blóðgan þóna benja al,
    ef buðlung fólkið leggur til.

18. Hákon tekur heima mann,
    hann og senda niðr þvi
    sem landreksa segja kann,
    svoðdan málavorð á nú.

19. Sjóli gladur fast hér við,
    fæmdi gjósum legátann;
    sá af stað með svo búíð
    sendur aptur ferðast vann.

20. Geimð lét síla fló á sjó,
    setja minnið hafnar við,
    ljónin kyla buðlung bjó,
    besta meður fylgðar lið.

21. Biður hraustan her af stað
    halda strax og sljóta sér;
    Gauta ad austan, gramur kvað,
    í gilva sundi biðið þér.

22. Hákon Digri safnar sveit,
    saman brátt um Gautalöð,
    búna vigri er besta veit,
    branda til að esla gráð.

23. Vigs til spjalla vopnað lið,
    velur jallinn Ólafur,
    hrausta kalla herð í frið,
    hvar sem vissi brinstafur.

24. Byrni þja bjuggu þrjá,
    besta þar sem seingu til;
    vel hertýgjað var þeim á
    vigfænt lið í hrotta bil.

25. Fremstan sveita fóringjann,
    frægan Arnljót settu þar;
    kémpan teit á Kémþíngs rann,
    kníðí sævar hyndurnar.

26. Als lét skunda liðug ljón,
    listug hetjan þartil hann,
    í gilva sundi geimð um frón
    gramð herskipin tilreið fann.

27. Allir njum fagna fljótt,
    formanni og draga þvi,
    upp úr býum þu sjótt
    atékt, seglin þenja frý.

28. Blakti um stýri byrinn þar,
    boðunum háu suðin ver,
    gölgju mýri Geirhaddar
    gotar renna allvakrer.

29. Gjónis fridla fylgdi að
    Formóðs svölum veitti lið,
    hyndur dilla hafla bað
    blés í sölum graðbíð við.

30. Fálkar glamma flugu hratt,
    Fenris hvelpa gjálfur vió;
    hnísu damma guíssan glatt,
    gjördi að noldra kvisindið.

31. Víða fíla letu lars,
    leita sagðra víkinga;
    unz að visar hollar hárs,
    hittu sverda merölinga.

32. Á tólf hraunar hestum lá,
    Hervaldur við Gyrðisnes;
    þótti manna mikill þá
    munur; Sviar gættu þess.

33. Heldur vildu halda frá,
    en hætta sér að brjóta sal;
    hetjan gilda hjalar þá,
    heyrast smán sú aldrei skal.

34. Að vér slýum fyrir þeim,
    fyrr enn reynd er Hogna þrá;
    búist þvi í branda hreim,
    blánka látum málma á.

35. Hinir spyrja, hverjir menn,
    hervisliga láti sér;
    sveitin styrjar svarstóðsen,
    Svennskir, talar, erum vér.

36. Finni ansar, fyrri gjer,
    ferðin mun í minni sú
    yður, en vansa yekar fer,
    öllu verri reynist nú.

37. Yekur Svíum ei mun bælt,
    oss að berjast Rússa við,
    þræla rjúm þegi sælt,
    þó skuluð sá sem viljið þið.

38. Vopnin braut upp beggja lið,
    hjuggust svo til atlögu;
    allan braut þar ófta frið,
    orvar flugu af balstögum.

39. Skothríð hordust greíðt var gjör,
    gúsaði flugsvoinn eloum blóðs;
    virðar bördust flúði fjör,
    fleinar særa old til móðs.

40. Varði Hervalds viðar stafn,
    vastur maður sófnum að;
    halurinn bardist hetjum jafn,
    heitir Socki, greint er þad.

41. Þrisur spjótið Sockí sitt,
    sendir Arnljót midjan á;
    hann var fljótur hendti mitt,
    hratt á lopti og kastar þá.

42. Í brjóst á Socka broddur hels,
    beittur snúgur, hetjan dó;
    Hildar rocka hristir jels,
    hitti Jólnis sala kró.

43. Strax sem hætti flugi fals,
    fólkið sverðum þúngum brá;
    margan grætti genja Gals
    garpar beggja falla þá.

44. Sinna manna fremstur for,
    foringi Gauta klæddur dáð,
    húðloganna hoggin stór
    hinum greiðir vígs um lað.

45. Hvar sem tundri Bölverks brá,
    brjótur randa nockrum ab;
    aldrei þundur eggja sá,
    úr þvi mann um lækning bað.

46. Þegar Sviar sinn formann,
    so stórt höggva litu þar,
    hugdyrfð nja hvar einn fann,
    hrynur og süngu késjurnar.

47. Hrið svo mikla hrotta jók
    hardvíg þjóð á silum sjóð,
    blód í esla brögnum tók,
    beit þa sala Gillings ród.

48. Hrudu Gautar Hervalds skip,
    hjuggu úr teingsflum aleidd simm
    söfnin þrauta kvala klip
    köppum steipir heljar dimm.

49. Enda voru Arnljóts senn,
    ára gætir tæmdir þrír;
    finnist stórir Svensskir menn,
    samt hvar odrum hugar frír.

50. Hjalar Finni Hervalds til,
    harðir Sviar reynast nú;
    hrævar slinnum hárs í bil,
    hvaðan kemur birska sú.

51. Hervald segir, sé eg eitt
    Svía og Gauta foringjann
    að fjörleigi furðu greitt
    framsuð stórum vega kann.

52. Hljótum betur herda oss,
    hermannliga sakjum fram
    sem hvar gétur Biblins bloss
    beiti og aukum sverda glamm.

53. Skeiðs til Hervald stoppa fer,
    skip á Arnljóts komist fer;
    heipt með kalda björinn ber,
    höggur líð á mundir tvær.

54. Eggjum stökkur undan sveit,
    æsiráni forðar sér;
    Skjörgláms rokkur kémpan leit,
    kappa Gyrðskum moti fer.

55. Hittast gildir hreystimenn,
    Hervald þeinkti figurinn ber,
    eins og vildi verda senn,
    væri beint í hendi sér.

56. Bálin Hrana leiptra ljós,
    löndum Bala beggja frá;
    Bísurs ganar roðin rós
    röndum galar skýgðum á.

57. Hverugur oðrum hlísdi neitt,
    Herjans elda bar víð fry,
    randa nodrum rista greitt
    rúms sótsóla stéttir þof.

58. Hervald þykir þessi kall,
    þrauta erviður fyrir sér;
    unda prís þvi aðiö svall,
    Arnljóts til hann þá reiðer.

59. Hoggið þúnga hitti stá,
    hetjan veik sér undan þvi;
    falst mimmúngur fagur þá,
    fastur verdur trénu í.

60. Að sér kippti Hervald hjör,
    honum tregt þó veitti það;
    Arnljóts lyptist upp þá bör
    eggin stefnir hinum að.

61. Stálíð rauðá stísir hrigg,
    stýkkjadur Hervald falla má;
    er hann dauður ad eg hygg,
    andadur liggur þiljum á.

62. Arnljóts kraptur ecki þver,
    afrek byssu sjna vann;
    framm og aptur fólk sitt vér,
    forþrís Gautum keypti hann.

63. Iarna stím þeir juku svo,
    jalfa sfars á blodþíngum;
    orma Gjmis tæmdu tvo,
    trausta enn af vísíngum.

64. Dma blossa emjar skraf,
    undir rendur stýnja þvi;
    dreyra fossa, deckjum af,
    dundu elfar sjóinn í.

65. Í þeim svip sem sverda þrá,
    svo var sæðr og heljar súr,
    með 5 skipum flótta á,
    Finni leggur stríði úr.

66. Kémpan segir Svíum þar,
    saman herfáng berið þér,
    brátt á vegi brimvallar,
    bróið meðan förum vér.

67. Finna eptir heldur hann,
    hafði Gauta skipin þrjú;
    hinir képpust hart með fann,
    honum undan róa nú.

68. Sóktu af kappi svoðdan fer,
    sveitin hvörutveggi þreitt,
    uns að krappa oldin er,
    undir nes-korn leggur eitt.

69. Hljóp á land af hróshum sæ,
    hervíkinga felmtrað lið;
    hér mun standa Gólnis gjæs,
    gétur ei leingur hín slogíð.

70. Skollvalds falla skala straums,
    stéksur þornar grönum enn,
    bollinn hallast góma glaums,
    gledjast seint af honum menn.

Sjöunda Ríma

Áttunda Ríma

Old/Middle Icelandic source text from the 1842 Copenhagen edition of Rímur af Arnljóti Upplendinga-kappa, pp. 74–80. Transcribed from Fraktur page scans. Presented for reference and verification.

Áttunda Ríma.

1. Opt eg votur fór á flot við fræða þrot;
   ef veiða kynni í voðra flot af vísu brot.

2. Eitt eg veit, að oldin teit um Ísa reit,
   kveðin mín ei kallar neit né lofasteit.

3. Sjálfum mér þvi Sigþýs þver eg senja fer,
   hann um fyrst ei þyrðið fér, hvað handvist er.

4. Íðjan sú eg yðka nú, það er mín trú,
   þöll er eigi hín fyrir hún, hjú né kú.

5. Ljóðaskef að lesa á bref og lund til þef,
   einó og seppi eptir þef sem eltir ref.

6. Ema krís og fagna sús sem faungun bíð,
   líkt og elsa hlöri mús í lampa ljúð.

7. Plunb hrekst og í burt rekst, en unn fékst,
   þðjan hröðrar ef vel tekst, það eigi bregst.

8. Af einni bót eg erintin jól með orð ólóst,
   það kemst aldrei barn í brót sem byrja tóst.

9. Einatt latur uppi sat við orða þat,
   þá annur verlin ecki vat hvatur iðjað gat.

10. Drögamall við orða spjall er aldrei snjall
    maó er aó yðka losóum kalli fæðra brall.

11. Oróin riða út á hlíó aó Autors síó
    og hefsa ecki hröðvar smiða hentugt sníó.

12. Rímu spjallið fékk þar fall sem fyllstir snjall,
    gjörir aó reisa um Gauta hjall í gleði svall.

13. Beitslur fann hjá herrum hann í hverjum rann,
    sóma og heiður sérhver mann aó sýna kann.

14. Hákon má þar fregn af fá og fyrirsjá,
    í Hringtún kemur hermt er frá svo hilmir sjá.

15. Meó hundruó manns geck meiðir brands
    mót milðung lands,
    hann svo leiðir hratt til ranns meó holda krans.

16. Handar ísa veróum víó þá veittist prís,
    dýrst veitsla upp þar rís sem oóin hje.

17. Stilla tár og staupa ár, sem streymi lár,
    gunna vetti fjálla krár þvi éetin stár.

18. Gilvi slýr þvi gnagó var dýr þá gjöróist hýr,
    greinir svara brátt tilhýr við bauga týr.

19. Hvert er Hildar hetjan mild ei heima gild,
    svo drecki hér aó vorri vild ní vín meó snild.

20. Hákon tér hann heima er og hyggju ber,
    fyrir géstum best og beina fér sem bjóóum vér.

21. Loföung krafsi lét þá af um lausa staf
    upp svo drýckju oóling gaf og allvert svaf.

22. Um óttu bil, eg inna vil, þess ecki dyl,
    Hákon Arnljóts innti til meó öru stíl.

23. Vinur lær osó vertu nær þá veitslan grær
    loföung vili þaó lyndisstær og lísa vær.

24. Hjalma ber gaf honum sver meó hót óþver,
    vor munu þau verti fjörin verða gjör.

25. Aó boróum fest ní fólkió flest og fylkir mest,
    var þar drukkió vínió slest og veitt sem best.

26. Meó annan mann kom inn í rann sá auónu fann,
    kurteisliga hilmir hann þá heilsa vann.

27. Fyrir siðlings há-þeir-satið þá einn sess þar á,
    settust báðir sjóli nóir svo aó tja.

28. Hvert ber heiti hetjan teit sem heilsar sveit
    hermanligri hal um reit eg hvergi leit.

29. Ansar brátt sá eyðbi sátt við eggia slátt
    Arnljótr nefna mig þú matt og meingió látt.

30. Hvar er sá þér situr hjá veó sjóli tja
    Arnljótur nann ansa þá og ei vió brá.

31. Þaó er Finni félagi minn, en fjandi þinn,
    heiður og fremd ber hetjan svinn í hvert eitt sinn.

32. Siðling! ybur settast bió eg segginn vió
    og halnum trausta gésa grió og góðan fríó.

33. Sjóli tér, eg sjálfum mér og sáttum hér
    einum raóa ávalt ber en ecki þér.

34. Svo mun þaó þá kappinn kvað þar kemur aó,
    leingi eg aldrei lítilð baó í lyndis staó.

35. Upp hann stóð og á burt tróð meó orva rjóó,
    raesir varó af reiði móó þá rétt sem blóó.

36. Hyrómeón tveir sem hristu geir meó hilmi meir
    Gauti og Teitur aungvu eira illir þeir.

37. Þessa á ráó tóngur knóa kalla þá,
    á einmæli þeim báóum brá meó beizta prá.

38. Fæti þér nær sáió hér á sleina grér
    Finna sekan sellió þér þvi sognum vér.

39. Færió hann í fjörsins bann og feigóar rann,
    þessu játtu þeir meó sann nær þaó sté fann.

40. Dagur beió svo gríman greió frá gummum leió
    hyróin undir boróin breió og buóling streió.

41. Í náóa staó þeir njósna þaó, svo ní meó hraó
    sálibaóur Finni traó og fata honum aó.

42. Teitur hjó meó þjorgu kló til kappans þó,
    meó refsi af sér reckurinn sló og ráó tilbjó.

43. Ísslumanninn undir rann, svo ótt sem fann,
    og brandinn snara af sneiptum glanna snúóugt vann.

44. Í þvi Gauti aó nam stauka í odda þraut
    og hendti sveró á heróa laut sem hreysti naut.

45. Svoóu sár vió sveróa sár feck seggur knár;
    en tamur dreitra teinnínn frár aó Teiti gár.

46. Af saut haus af illum faus svo eyóóist raus,
    Gauti lísa líf vió laus þar ló sem hnaus.

47. Arnljót fann sá sta vann og allan faun,
    efna finna innir þann, um aóburó þann.

48. Hetjan knó svo hratt vió brá sem heyra má,
    kappa snjalla kallar á sem funni sá.

49. Í staónum hvar eitt vígi var til varnaóar
    50 tvennir fylgjarar hans fundust þar.

50. Víst hans líó þar vernum vió og vopna elíó,
    ef sjóli vill ei semja feíó vió svo búíó.

51. Kom til sanns sá frétta fans til fylkir lands,
    Finni senói, hyrómeón hans til heljar ranns.

52. Hjartaó gégnum heiptin megn þá hljóp vió fregn,
    dróttum stípar bors vió regn aó drepa þegn.

53. Maklig sá skal meiðsli sá er menn nam slá
    mun ei álma meiðir tjá ní móti stá.

54. Heyrói hann ní aó hetjan trúa hraustust sú
    var í staónum viðbúin aó verja hjú.

55. Loföung tér nær síóió sér ei leiðist þér
    fullan sína fjandskap mér og fer þvi ver.

56. Vinn þaó ei fyrir vopna frey eitt víkings grey,
    aó drepinn fert á Svíóris mey, hinn svarar: nei.

57. Finn eg Svía fylkir ný er fíón á þvi,
    aó reyna hvaó dugum rómu í og rauóa gný.

58. Víst mun skjalaó veróa tal meó vísa al,
    aó dýrkeypt reynast dögling skal aó drepa þal.

59. Bjóó eg enn bót fyrir brodda njót meó blíóu hót,
    ef vel þvi taka viltu mót af vináttu rót.

60. Ööling svar gaf eckert svar þvi cesur var,
    gíó aó nju enn síípar til aósóknar.

61. Ólafur sall meó íta snjall og einnig kall,
    hlupu þá til aó hindra allir hrotta spjall.

62. Beiddu hátt ní buóling dátt aó binda sátt
    sig hann gaf aó soóðan sátt meó sinnió þrátt.

63. Buóling tér þess beiðó þér sem ból oss lér,
    fremri yóar frægó þaó er aó fylgja mér.

64. Víst um sinn eg velaóan finn hér vinskapinn,
    þar verja hugsió víkinginn þann vonóstu hvinn.

65. Ólafur kvað, vér óttumsst þaó í allan staó,
    aó fjölóung hreppi staóa-baó hér sjótt meó hraó.

66. Sjóli abóá ef seggir sá ei sættum ná,
    einginn yóar fer hér frá meó fjöri þá.

67. Hilmir sér þaó hentast er sem halurinn tér
    mjög skrátónum hnikars-hvar eg hvolsa fer.

Níunda Ríma

Middle Icelandic source text from Rímur af Arnljóti Upplendinga-kappa, 1842 Copenhagen edition, pp. 80–91. Transcribed from Fraktur page scans. Uncertain readings marked with [?].

Níunda Ríma.

Tregt vill réna fræða stúr,
ságað Álfsvinns þágn,
mentín fléna leggst í lúr,
lítt osk þénar Bleiks stúr.

Þjóðum öður þekin tjór,
þjóðum bregum þlýða,
en næmis láða öður ör,
er nú snáður lista gjör.

Þú munt segja í fagna þey
soðan ráðu ölíta [?],
hún öngir ei og sé því foei [?],
Suðra sleyðíð sítt er grey.

Minnís vellir vísnader,
varma frjósögun harma
blómgan fellir heðrar þér
hausfíð ellí fyrir mér.

Spuða gröinn edlí af
öður bar þó dáða,
dvort fríósan ynðís straf,
opt sem ró og stémtún gaf.

Solnar, dofnar, eydíst, aum,
úrsfram mannz náttúra,
solnar, brotnar, gleymír glaum,
gráðin sofnar ljúsust draum.

Vestja bønir estugar,
axín berí vaxín
allir vønir alsöndar [?],
afrar grænir stémtunar.

Úblómgaðir uppá nú,
dvort fagran ljái;
hver einn maður hæsl þvi
hjartaglaður verold í.

Beiti gaða gafan há,
gagni mættum fagna;
og rauður aða sveitún fá
Sigtýrs blaða megi fá.

Hvað sem kalda hyggju bý,
hrella vílt tilfelli;
at Sigvalda eyði því
og Eítin Etjalda sektin ný [?].

Ríman beíð þar fyrri fall,
fljótt sem stýrir drótta,
með heipt og reíðí heyrðí snjall,
hvers að beiðir jall og kall.

En á meðan stríð tal,
áttu þar um sáttir,
fá menn séð að fljóða val,
færa réðí vítrum hal.

Sextýgi manna grímmt með geð,
grand er stíðja branda;
fjálf þeim nanna sauma réð,
sú nam spanna Balláng með.

Þegar gramur þetta fá
þrúnginn móðí drúnga;
með fagna amur svo réð tjá,
síst er gaman ferðum á.

Slík fádæmi fólstunnar,
seingin heyrði enginn
að hrundír fjæmu horfar þar,
sem holdar tæma finnleysar.

Eí skulu fríðir öðlíngar
eptír mér það frétta,
heitt þó svíði hugarfar,
að heyst eg stríð við konurnar.

Beint fyrir yðar bæna stað,
brátt skal heita sáttum,
og tilstykka eitt og hvað
ef samþykja vill hann það.

Fyrst skal hortug hetjan sjöll,
heiðrí meður leíða,
undir vort vald Upplönd öll,
eí svo skorti handar mjöll.

Frá sér láti Finna ör
sljá úr ríkí Svía,
sáttarmáti sá er gjör,
og sett af gæti fríðar fjör.

Börín spánga svorín sín
sagðí fram að bragðí;
undir gánga ölog þín,
eí víll stránga hyggjun mín.

Öll þau lönd tilheyra hér
hildíng Svía gíldum,
með sverðí og röndum frekjum vér,
svo á höndur gángí þér.

En þín vegna eg eckí má,
íll þau málin fylla,
að narra þegna níslung frá
sem Noregs gegna stjórnan á.

Þar á byggja þér er spé,
að þvínga Upplendínga
Upplönd hygg eg aldreí sé,
arfur tyggja gótó né fé.

Rísta stísir sterkan þann,
að steíta í burt eg neíta;
óskerhlísinn afreks mann,
þeim áðar líf eg géfa vann.

Fyrr skal eg dauður falla á jörð,
en flekk þann vinni hreksja;
þessí nauðúng þín er hörð,
því mun eg trauda sáttargjörð.

Haldinn mæðu Hákon vann,
halínn við að tala:
þíg vandræða misinn mann
meíngíð slæða nefna kann.

Oss villt steipa öllum þú,
í óvinskap og tapa,
sáttum hleypa frá og slú
syrnist sneipa aldreí sú.

Það mátt virða þú sem villt,
þegninn aptur gégnir;
þar fyrir girða er þér óskillt
ef þrjótskan slírða fer oss trillt.

Hilmir gekk og hyrðin þá,
heim og reíðí geymir
hraustum rekk og höldum frá;
hefur sig beckí dryckju á.

Ólafur jallinn eí aflét,
iðinn að biðja gríða;
hann var snjall um hyggju slét,
og Hákon fallinn þess eg gét.

Svo á unnu um síðir þeir
sikling við hinn slínga;
að saman kunnu tala tveir
tyggi og runnut stacka meir.

Önundur segir: eg sé víst,
á geðþráí ösíndu,
undan sveigja eí þér líst,
oss við heyja kappíð hýst.

Einn þú ráða veum villt,
en virðíng aðra slíra,
þó vinir báða geð með gíllt,
gjöri náðar biðja stíllt.

Fyrir vegju viltu eí,
voða máls í boðum;
hrokan læggja í hugar þey,
heiptar næggja sú er grey.

Sjálfur máttu segja þá,
sett hvað styrkja mætti;
svo þyðju drátttur þverri sá
þetta láttu oss heyra fá.

Svar Arnljótur sítt fram bar,
svo latandí í máta;
eg vil hótum upphæðar
öðling bóta ráðí snar.

Fyrir þína menn eg mun,
mætar greíða bætur;
svo falli þína og friðar hrun,
en Finna sína liðs umbun.

Hæfirðu áður heitíð mér
hygg eg báð og trygðum;
hyrðir láða enn hvornig fer
heðan af, ráða skuluð þér.

Sjóli géldur svor með stíl
sá hann eí annaď tjáir:
eg skal heldur hlíðra til,
heiptar eld eg slockva vil.

Allir þegnar er þar stá
orð þegar Gilva heyrðu,
afar fegnír urðu þá,
Arnljóts vegna þaklír tjá.

Sættust heílum sáttum þeir
settu votta um þetta;
hættu beílum hoskir meir,
af hug sveílum báðir tveir.

Greiddi Arnljótur gnótt af auð,
gram, sem höfðu samið,
í fulla bót fyrir fallín gauð
sorgudust hótin trygða snauð.

Var Naðþorni vísíð best
veitt af gunst óprettri;
þeim svo orni þyckja hrest,
er þá að morgni reisa lést.

Kémpan gilda gilva þá,
gullhlað men og silfju,
gersemi snildar gaf að sjá,
göðrar vildar asla má.

Af Grímníð letrí gerseme,
gaf og Finni honum,
í öllu setrí Asíe,
eingín betrí hygg eg fé.

Eyðir tala fínnið fátt,
sjóla orma bólíð;
til Uppsala bjöður brátt
báða falar til sín hátt.

Hreint afstóð það hetjan treg,
hér mun eg stundum vera,
afsegn jók í allan veg,
því öðling klókan vífsí mjeg.

Landa hirðir hefðar hár,
heppinn þóttist sleppa;
með sína forða svo burt gár,
fæmdur birða gnægtum sjár.

Sveitar ljóður samrínður,
faðíð kraka þáðí;
á burt ríður Ólafur,
aungvu síður forerdur.

Uru bæmdar afreks manns,
ýðíl fómi og þríðí,
auðna semd og einorð hans
öld flugrœmdi Gautalands.

Hlaðinn böðum mágji með,
maðurinn sat svo glaður,
leingi í náðum líst var léð
lofstjúr tjáðum halda réð.

Af herfir öðum heilsu brö,
hættum sjúkleit mætti;
elli moður útaf öó,
en hans hröður lísir þó.

Ljóðurinn tregar líðinn bur,
leingi vínsæll meingi;
var svo þegar vin-margur
virðuglega grefstraður.

Kémpan mildíng bauð sem bar,
og burðugum stórhöfðíngjum,
svo sem vildi og sett til var
að sækja gildi veitslunnar.

Boði gégna buðlíng vann,
bráður þannig tjáðí;
eg því megna eckí kann,
annars vegna sagðí hann.

Í því erfi veíttur var,
virðugur sómi fyrðum;
allt umhverfíð höfðíngjar
horna skérsinn tæmdu þar.

Af ástar þóti ýta safn,
og Ólafur jallinn snjallí,
gaf Arnljóti gilvum jafn,
í greiðabótt þó hersis nafn.

Bitti skjóma stísír ranns,
slotnum róminn jotna;
oröstjúr hljómar auðnu manns,
allt um tómíð Gautalands.

Barst Önundí fregn sú frýð,
er frexa ölund vekur;
að á þeim fundi nafnbót ný,
nadda þundí gafsist því.

Lund þó kasí lofðungur,
ljótt það vera þótti,
í því hæsí óvirdtur,
að Ólafur gæsí nafnbætur.

Þóttist áður öðling ör,
átt hafa þúngt uppdráttar,
þá halurinn bráður heiðurs gjör,
hafði á láðí minni kjör.

Fyrir af pláta fell honum styrt,
fær þó hitt að læra;
varð að láta vera hyrt,
við þann máta er nú var birt.

Tók Arnljótur arf og fé,
eptir hinn jarðsetta;
ørleiks hótin ófande,
aura gnóttir miðlande.

Varð hans ljóður við það gladur,
vegur sóma fegrast
svo sem bjóður sæmda maður,
sérhvor hljóðir goðviljadur.

Það er að segja þrotnar senn,
þessí gjörðin vesða;
ofur seginn meina menn,
mun hann deya vilja enn.

Tíunda Ríma

1.
Valla hatnar voxtur vatna Viðris kviðar
lítt þó batnar liðið klíða
ljóða gatna ýðins smiðar.

2.
Bísurs horna fúlín forna feitir veitir,
kvöld og morgna hveití hreitir,
Hvítíngs korna sveita þeitir.

3.
Líðug tídum last eg ljóðin ljóða bjóða,
sagna blóðum fræðir gróða,
er fullir af stríðum móði hljóða.

4.
Valgants dryckja vel tílftiknð vetur speki,
audinn Bíesu ekur þreki,
alla þyckju frekta reki.

5.
Þyrjar grauda storniur standa stundum mundi,
Fafnis fauda stundinn lundi,
ef fold dynjandi stundi undir.

6.
Mér gaf Óðinn létt þó ljóði lag til braga;
felli' eg öð um fagra baga,
fundinn þjóðin klagar baga.

7.
Mitt er starfsið stór óparsi stríð og kvíði;
fræða hvarf meir fríðleiks prýdi,
fístlu bjarsa smiðið bídi.

8.
Vildi' eg gáfan alla rási enn með tonnu,
sóna gnæfí senn hjá monnum,
sem að kæfir bonniu hronnum.

9.
Saunginn rangan sjst ofsangan segí' eg meya;
gyrníst sáunga greyðið deya,
haun géfur sig súnga spegils eya.

10.
Nádí Ragna þýsið þagna þar sem harí,
með vísta hagnað var hinn snarí,
hjá vísí og fagnar marar stari.

11.
Ver til frétta því nást þetta á þundar sprundi,
fregn sú þétta fundin mundi
slaug af létta um funda grundir.

12.
Millí Upplanda' og Gauta granda greíð-vegs steida,
islar standa eydi-heiðar,
eptir vanda leiðir breiðar.

13.
Leíð Úfsdala vís övalín verum Hjera,
önnur talín er hín bera,
urdum falín kjer með hvera.

14.
Heiðstógs flata, hana raka hda fáir,
önnur er gata á sem gljáir,
aungvan bata ljá sú ndir.

15.
Á þeim heidum bjsna breidum bósar þrófasf,
gæta að veiðum grósir þjósar,
glotubu leidum fljósjr hósar.

16.
Aungvír þordu' um eydi-stordu ístar trúta,
niðíngs morðin nýta slíta,
njótar forða vísin sjíta.

17.
Af hlausjt vandí illu grandi ótæpt þrjóta,
leíð hamlandí fljótrí fóta
þeím fóru á landí brjótum spjóta.

18.
Varð addrálttur minni máttar meír hjá fleirum,
gett ótátt hjá geira freirum,
gagnið smátt af eyrir heyrum.

19.
Hjortjón baga fyrdar klaga seingíð meíngi
líðinn baga leingí geinginn,
leídan agar dreíngur einginn.

20.
Ráns af þrjótum þá Arnljótur þetta frétti
géðs að rótum glettur settí,
svo gríða brjótum þrettir létti.

21.
Sagdí slíngur sverdmæringur sím við Finna
Upplendúnga vinn eg vinna,
vitja ætthrínga kinnis minna.

22.
Við skulum bádir rétt af rádi ríða viðar,
gotur á ládi ljóð frá þýda,
ljóst með dádir blídleiks ferda.

23.
Á sodda valí sína halir setjast, etja
um heidar bala hetjur hvefja,
hlíd Úfsdala fetad géta.

24.
Á þeím höðum að þeím æða unnum kunna,
sextán stæðir sverda runnar
sveipaðir kledí Gunnars þunna.

25.
Ótryggs hlýrar statnar stýra, stýldir galdir
flocknum stýra tríldír taldir
tveir, um mýrar snildar kaldir.

26.
Hlupu af bakí hetju makar hestum bestu,
greitt móttaka gestum vestu,
geira soka lestur hvestu.

27.
Ólmír víga stráðar stíga stíng með Ínga
að hættu siga Hvessinges þúnga
heiptar ryggar Sprínghentínga.

28.
Hladnar daðum hetjur baðar harðar verðust
eggjum máðir barðar berðust,
bíludu laðín svarðar herðust.

29.
Fremur en ugdu og hraustur hugdu hvein fárteína
fræfnir bugdu fleín að reyna,
folum brugdu, geín undskeína.

30.
Bídlínds eldur víst því veldur vala falur
glópum seldur galar falur,
Gríms var seldur malinn þvalur.

31.
Hetjur strauðar hvestu rauða hreggíð Tveggja
gistu kauðar gneggmáls steggja,
grimman dauða' af eggjum beggja.

32.
Stísir leíngi stálta meíngi stjómí í rómu
særðust dreíngir sóma frómu
í sókna geíngi óma grómu.

33.
Mjög ákasir orkogstasir illir tryllast
géðs í kasí grillum syllast
glimur Skasí, rend vill spillast.

34.
Stæltir reyna straðar sleína storð um þorðu,
uns þrir einir erðugir hjerdu,
ecki seinir borðin morðu.

35.
Míðt á slótta méttaðir ótta mundu stunda
slettir þrótt í fundí unda,
sljettaðir sótt og tundri þundar.

36.
Hetjur góðar harla móðar hárs eld báru,
gusaðir blóði' er gár úr sárum
gánga um slóð í ár að dárum.

37.
Hugsa slinna hitta slinna og hreckja seka;
þraut þá Finna þrek að vekja,
þol varð minna afreks freka.

38.
Odda slída ótulum smíd svo æðar blæða
settist niður á svæðið hæða,
sára iða mæðir stæða.

39.
Um heiðar vángann hína lángan hetjan betur
elti stránga, etju hvetur,
aular gánga í Fletljóns setur.

40.
Þalvarg kénna þángað renna þrjótar sljótir,
lokur spenna ljótir í blóti,
læsa nenna gjótu móti.

41.
Dáða kéndur darra bendír djarft með hjarta,
harðstein sendí hart einn svarta
hurðin vendí snart í þarta.

42.
Inn að þrjótum óð Arnljótur elm lét sálma,
hinna' á mótí málmar jálma
magnast rótíð stálmar sálma.

43.
Kænir að verjast bósar berjast bleydí eyda
runnur herjar reiðar steiða,
randir merjast sleiðrín meida.

44.
Kappið dróst í kémpu brjóst, þó klæðist mæði
hjers í gjóstí glæðist æði,
grætt af hjósti æðin blæðir.

45.
Eí fyrr létti Urnis slétta yggur byggur,
en hvor einn detta hryggur liggur,
heljar setta byggíng þyggur.

46.
Módur úr æði maðurinn bæði meir ei eyrir;
sár þó blæði og seiran dreiri,
snar um hæðir leira steyrir.

47.
Hitti Finna hulinn Linna harkumls tárum,
umbót vinna knár víll klárum,
kappa og hlýnna stár að sárum.

48.
Svo á laxinn síðan Fara sarðan bærdi
heim að strax þar hrærdán færdi,
í húnan þaks, með værd um nærdí.

49.
Feckst þar, nóg af senda vóg, með slóða glódum,
vidsta plóg og gróða gódum
að greida í lóg úr Fróda sjódum.

50.
Tíu daga af benja baga báðir átu,
á braut svo slaga bráðir gáðu,
burtu vaga laddójr naðu.

51.
Heim með nægðir hátrar frægðar héldu' um veldi,
og kveikstum þegðir eldu eldí,
lostir hægðir selðust seldír.

52.
Lista-manna losíð vann um land aðvanda,
er seldu glanna í grandí branda,
gríðleíð manna handstrsksjanda.

53.
Undrast meira allir þeír í orku verki,
hvað ítar tveir hafa orkað sterkir
að ota geír víð herku serki.

54.
Ólafur jallinn átti' á hjallí ertíð mætur,
með fríðleíks mjalla á fatí dætur,
sundust valla mætrí sætur.

55.
Ingibjörg vann bætur mergu og blíð Ástríður,
sem unnu fergun ýðíl kvsðum,
álsum tjergu þýðar tíðum.

56.
Til handa Finna hetjan stinna heiðurs greida
beíddí svinnrar seíðelds heiðar,
sólar linna meíðí reiðar.

57.
Bjargar Ingi broddmæringur brecktu hleckja,
Finni slíngur féck svo þecka
flockmæringur hæctir ecka.

58.
Brudsaup settu margra méttast magar plaga,
horna sveittir haga baga
heldum réttast lagardagar.

59.
Sat með jalli finnis snjallur síðan blíður
Finna allur fríður ljóður
frægstan kallar, tjóðin bíður.

60.
Séma þeckur þjóslír féck á fjóla bóli,
og hirðstjórn recka hóls af stóli,
heiðurinn géck að fjóla njóli.

61.
Hjá grafnings lúnum gifti búnum grunda lundi,
halurinn múna hrundinn blundi,
í Þringtúnum stundum undi.

62.
Ástir fastar allstyrkvastar yndis binda,
myrkum lasta mindum hrinda,
menn tryggvastir lyndis strinda.

63.
Fundings leingur undin eingin æða blæðir
blundur feinginn bræðir mæði,
bundin teingir ræða kvæði.

Ellefta Ríma

1.
Enn vill Jara ferjan fara
feðra varar stoðvum frá
hana kalla Hrana allir
haukar snjallir þingið á.

2.
Vist ófróður mjög er móður
að minda hróður sá sem kvað,
gleymist blustum Gullinbusta
gal, er fusti' að allstaðar.

3.
Á Íslandi er það vandi
Óðreirs blandið gledur ljóð
kvíða graudi klárt eydandi
um kalt blásandi vetrar-tíð.

4.
Gæfu minda græðir Yndi
gráti Hrindír óþagðar
unaðs bindur elftu kindír
í ósta vindi farseldar.

5.
Þúnga eydír dófa deyðir,
bygg sem beiðir þertin fljó,
svefní míar sorg burtþjóar,
síðan nýa eftir ró.

6.
Endog svanur undir bana
opt er vanur villa róm
alsteins stíldí Óma gildi;
eg fað vildí, stilla hljóm.

7.
Yndís tóða eptir hreðir,
ern ljóðir gilti sal
fúist kvíði samdin þrjói,
sælu bíðir í unaðs bal.

8.
Allt hvað maðir eða hraðir
oss á svæði stríðs vallar,
sælu hæðu, sónn með gæði
Sól það græðí ljósþhallar.

9.
Gefú stundu glóð við hnudin
gefst þar fundin viðfeldín,
refla grundin rauft undir
rýstau bundinn mansaunginn.

10.
Mærðar slítur mærir bítur
mála slýtur segn á ný
hár sem rítur Haraldur vítur,
hilmir situr Norveg í.

11.
Mjög stjórnsamur stillir framur
stillti amur innan lands,
menn þó falá mundí kalí
millí Uppsalá grams og hans.

12.
Hilmir gildur heyrði mildur
að hreysti fylður stálbrjótur,
í Gautaveldi heidrí héldi,
hafs með eldi Arnljótur.

13.
Spurdi líta spennir ritja
að spillir slíta Svadmóðar
hvað sem gildír halda vildí
með hilmi mildum Norþjóðar.

14.
Og Upplendum undan höndum
ödlings föndum Svíanna,
hvað um aldur ættí' að haldast
eign margsfaldig Nordmanna.

15.
Noregs drótta drottní þóttí
dygða gnótta merkí slíkt,
þarleit hljótt við Knyir þróttar
kunni fljótt að binda ríkt.

16.
Boðskap vendí hann af hendi
hárs unu kvendi Gautlands til,
baud vídlendur brodda bendi
og hjartan sendi Grædis yl.

17.
Þarmed býður þengill fríður
þegni blíðum alræmis
Upplands víða allur ljóður,
Arnljóts hlýdi jarlsdæmi.

18.
Mjög tómlega' á marga vegu
málí tregur gegndi því;
á svoddan standí stór er vandí
það stofnar grandið uppá ný.

19.
Að vonum tryggur vísír hygginn
vin þótt dyggur kalli mig,
eptir ríki eg ei snelki,
er sú sifí staðsamlig.

20.
Í því sinnur eg mun hlinnur
ödling svinnum reynast láðs,
sem réttvisí rasis prýsar,
og raun auglýsír fríðar sáðs.

21.
Sjóla gladur sendimadur
svo fór hraður þadan heim,
vitsku tamur virda gramur,
vel tók framur boðum þeim.

22.
Áriðsama sókna framur,
sóktí gramur Englands til,
hernaðtamur hreystí ramur
hitti' á staman dauðans hil.

23.
Dáins fjóla bur að bóli
og budlungs stóli settist þá,
marar sóla huldír hóli,
heiðurs fjóla baldur sá.

24.
Magnús lendu meingi kéndur
máln og rendur stísa vann,
sína fjendur sóma vendur,
settí' í bendur dauðans hann.

25.
Ósfrið eyddi Arnljót beiddí,
um það neyddi dösling hár,
að jall Upplanda eydír branda,
yrdi að vanda sóma snúr.

26.
Tregt því stála tjr tók máli
tign að brjóta þótti leitt,
samt tilleidast sem hinn beiddír,
seggur heiðurs lætur veitt.

27.
Á Uppland settist, æru mettist,
að honum réttist virding stærst,
allt það fréttist Ónundur grettist
í honum þéttist gebið stærst.

28.
Þringtún Finna lét ei linna
list að vinna kémpan gaf
með hersis titil halur vítur,
heima situr þadan af.

29.
Vinsæll meingi varð svo leingi
vænn hofdíngi Gautalands;
rostur dreingur reyndist einginn,
rógð á þingi maki hans.

30.
Upplands þegnar eptir megni
Arnljót segnir hlýðni tjá,
allavegna elsku slegnír,
er best gegnir reyndust þá.

31.
Uppland halda vist með valdi
vogudu aldrei Svíarner,
þaðanaf taldir því af baldri
þeim stóð kaldí' og ótti þver.

32.
Aldrei treystust hans við hreystí
holdar freista eptir það
sat í náðum svo með baðum,
sæmda síðdur ríki að.

33.
Þrjá sér arfa átti þarfa
orku djarfa jallinn vís,
frægð sem unnu fremdir kunnu,
sleins af runnum losið rís.

34.
Ásbjörn rendur vígri vendur
víða kéndur stísa réð,
um æfi dægur öllum þægur
og nafnfrægur heiðrí með.

35.
Knúti Helga fór að folgja
fæðir ylgja lista stór;
með honum veginn, sagan segir,
á sama degi elma þór.

36.
Annar svinnur er Þorfinnur
arfi stinnur hetjunnar,
vítur madur, velstíckadur,
vænn og gladur steinsembar.

37.
Með Ólafí jalli ólst á hjallí,
audnu snjallur barns á tíð,
Svía radar sá varð hraður,
svo logmadur hetjan blíð.

38.
Aldrei lægði kapp né kæfði
konstir æfði trúskapar,
lærdi frægðir lesti svæfði,
lof svo gnæfðí vinsældar.

39.
Hákon þriðji, hetju niðji,
hamingjan stíðja uðdí þann,
lista ydinn fús á fríðinn,
fremdar siðinn lærdi hann.

40.
Jall Upplanda brjótur branda
bygð styrktjandi rædur ljóð,
illum vanda allrahanda
afstýrandi lífs á tíð.

41.
Arnljóts hróður útbarst ödum,
af arnum gróða manndygðar,
ástsæll þjóðum öllum góðum
ætíð fróða kémpan var.

42.
Fjörs til enda fróni kénda,
frægðum venda hetjan réð,
í heiðrí gildum hér við stíldí
hærstri mildi þjr svo með.

43.
Af Arnljóts þætti orð eg tætti
ecki bætt þar verdur á
er hann búinn, eg er lúinn,
óð frá snúinn hætta má.

44.
Náms óstadur Nóttar fadir
nafnið það er þess sem kvað
svo fyrir framan Sól til gamans
setti allt saman uppá blað.

45.
Hjálpi ydur himna smiður
heim til fríðar staða ná;
minn svo niður mærðar tliðir
mun án biðar hlaðast þá.

Source Colophon

Rímur af Arnljóti Upplendinga-kappa. Copenhagen, 1842. 108 pages. Fraktur type. Transcribed from 600 DPI page scans extracted from the Internet Archive PDF.

The Fraktur typeface presents significant challenges: long-s (ſ) and f are nearly identical, thorn (þ) and eth (ð) require contextual identification, u and n are often indistinguishable, and ligatures are common. Readings are best-effort. The mansöngur sections (opening stanzas of each ríma) are the most kenning-dense and therefore the most uncertain; narrative sections are more confident due to contextual anchoring in the story.

Some readings uncertain due to Fraktur letterforms. Future revisors with access to the Orðabók til rímur (rímur dictionary, septentrionalia.net) should verify uncertain stanzas against the page scans.

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