“That is a sick wife,” said Finnward, “Her weird has come on her.”
And at that the heart of Aud was lifted up with hope.
All day Thorgunna lay on her bed, and the next day sent for Finnward.
“Finnward Keelfarer,” said she, “my trouble is come upon me, and I am at the end of my days.”
He made the customary talk.
“I have had my good things; now my hour is come; and let suffice,” quoth she. “I did not send for you to hear your prating.”
Finnward knew not what to answer, for he saw her soul was dark.
“I sent for you on needful matters,” she began again. “I die here—I!—in this black house, in a bleak island, far from all decency and proper ways of man; and now my p. 20treasure must be left. Small pleasure have I had of it, and leave it with the less!” cried she.
“Good woman, as the s
