University of Virginia Library

At last midst Gudrun's talk, with either hand
Stretched out did Ospak yawn, and cried aloud
Unto the lower table's merry crowd:
“Well fare ye, fellows! ye are glad to-night;

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What thing is it that brings you such delight?
We be not merry here.”
Then one stepped forth,
And said: “Sooth, Ospak, but of little worth
Our talk was; yet these wandering churles are full
Of meat and drink, and need no rope to pull
Wild words and gleesome from them.”
“Bring them here,”
Said Ospak, “they may mend our doleful cheer.”