The The Orkneyinga Saga on Rognvald

The Orkneyinga Saga > For > And Caithness.

• attestation: Rögnvald, Earl of Moeri, made over his newly-acquired Orkney possessions to his brother Sigurd, the 'first earl' of the Saga, while he returned to his own earldom in Norway.

  "Rögnvald, however, returned to his own Earldom in Norway, and made over his newly-acquired possessions to his brother Sigurd, the "first earl" of the Saga."

The Orkneyinga Saga > For > Iv. The Earldom In The Norse Line, 872-1231.

• attestation: Rögnvald Brusison went west to the Orkneys to claim his father's third of the Islands and the third declared forfeited by King Olaf, then made an amicable arrangement with Thorfinn and joined forces for viking expeditions.

  "Rögnvald Brusison was in Norway when he heard of his father's death, and being odal-born to his father's third of the Islands, and having received from King Magnus Olafson a grant of that third which King Olaf had declared forfeited to himself for Eyvind Urarhorn's murder, he went west to the Orkneys, prepared to maintain his rights against the claims of Thorfinn"

• attestation: After an eight-year alliance, Rögnvald and Thorfinn fought a sea-battle in the Pentland Firth off Rauda Biorg in Caithness; Rögnvald was defeated and fled to Norway.

  "After an eight years' alliance, however, discord broke out between the kinsmen, and in a sea-fight in the Pentland Firth, off Rauda Biorg,[31] in Caithness, Rögnvald was defeated and fled, and Thorfinn reduced the whole of the Islands."

• attestation: Rögnvald surprised Thorfinn in a house on the Mainland of Orkney and set it on fire; Thorfinn broke through the wall carrying his wife Ingibiorg and escaped through the smoke.

  "Then he came west to the Islands in a single ship, and surprising Thorfinn in a house on the Mainland of Orkney, he set fire to it. Thorfinn broke down part of the wall of the house and leapt out, carrying his wife Ingibiorg in his arms, and escaped through the smoke."

• attestation: Rögnvald vowed to St. Magnus that if he obtained the Orkneys he would build and endow a stone minster at Kirkwall dedicated to St. Magnus, whom Rögnvald said rightly owned half the earldom.

  "At last he was advised by his father Kol to make a vow to St. Magnus, that if he should succeed in establishing himself in the Orkneys he would build and endow a "stone minster" at Kirkwall, dedicated to St. Magnus, "to whom the half of the earldom rightly belonged.""

• attestation: Harald, son of Maddad Earl of Athole, was made co-earl with Rögnvald by the joint consent of Bishop William of Orkney and Bishop John of Athole when he was only five years old.

  "by the joint consent of Earl Rögnvald, Bishop William of Orkney, and Bishop John of Athole, Harald, the son of Maddad, earl of Athole, was made Earl, along with Rögnvald, though he was at that time a child of only five years old."

• attestation: Earl Rögnvald, inspired by meeting Eindridi Ungi (a returned crusader) at Bergen, undertook a pilgrimage to the Holy Land with Bishop William of Orkney, departing in 1152 after calling a Thing-meeting.

  "The Earls Rögnvald and Harald visited King Ingi by invitation at Bergen, and there Earl Rögnvald met with Eindridi Ungi, a returned Crusader, and became possessed by a strong desire to visit the Holy Land."

• attestation: Rögnvald's pilgrimage lasted approximately three years, visiting Jerusalem, bathing in the Jordan, and returning via Constantinople, Durazzo, Apulia, and Rome to Norway.

  "after visiting Jerusalem and bathing in the Jordan, he returned by way of Constantinople, Durazzo, Apulia, and Rome, and so overland to Norway, the whole expedition occupying about three years."

• attestation: While Rögnvald was on pilgrimage, King Eystein of Norway seized Earl Harald Maddadson at Thurso, forced him to pay three marks of gold ransom, and swear fealty for Orkney and Shetland.

  "In the same summer that Earl Rögnvald left the Orkneys on his pilgrimage, King Eystein came from Norway with a large force, and seizing Earl Harald Maddadson as he lay at Thurso with a single ship, made him pay a ransom of three marks of gold, and swear fealty to him for Orkney and Shetland."

• attestation: Rögnvald was slain at Calder in Caithness in 1158 by Thorbiörn Klerk, an outlaw who had been exiled for murder committed in Kirkwall.

  "Harald and Rögnvald then ruled the two earldoms jointly, and apparently in great harmony, until the death of the latter in 1158. Rögnvald was slain at Calder, in Caithness, by Thorbiörn Klerk, the former friend and counsellor of Earl Harald, who had been made an outlaw by Earl Rögnvald for a murder committed in Kirkwall"

The Orkneyinga Saga > part large and all well equipped, was divided into two squadrons, one of > A.D.

• attestation: Earl Rögnvald was slain at Calder in Caithness by Thorbiörn Klerk in 1158, after which Earl Harald became sole ruler of Caithness and Orkney.

  "1158. Earl Rögnvald slain at Calder in Caithness by Thorbiörn Klerk. Earl Harald becomes sole ruler of Caithness and Orkney."

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Vii > Of The Famous Deeds Of Earl Thorfinn.

• attestation: Rögnvald, Brúsi's son, was at the Battle of Stiklestad when King Olaf was killed; he escaped and carried away King Olaf's wounded brother Harald Sigurdson, bringing him to a Bondi to recover, then fled to Jamtaland, Sweden, and on to Gardariki.

  "But of Rögnvald, Brúsi's son, it is said that he was in the battle of Stiklestad when King Olaf was killed. Rögnvald escaped, with other fugitives, and carried away King Olaf's brother, Harald Sigurdson, who was dangerously wounded, and brought him to a small Bondi to be cured; but he himself crossed the Kjöl, and went to Jamtaland, and thence to Sweden to see King Onund."

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Viii > Magnus, Olaf'S Son, Accepted King Of Norway.

• attestation: Rögnvald, Brúsi's son, stayed in Gardariki defending the frontier in summer and wintering in Hólmgard; he was a man of large stature, great strength, and the handsomest of men, and Arnór Jarlaskáld attests he fought ten battles in Gardar.

  "RÖGNVALD, Brúsi's son, remained in Gardariki (Russia) when Harald, Sigurd's son, went to Mikligard (Constantinople); he had the defence of the frontier in summer, and spent the winters in Hólmgard. The King as well as the people esteemed him highly. Rögnvald was a man of large stature and great strength, and one of the handsomest men in appearance, and his accomplishments were such that his equal was hardly to be found."

• attestation: Rögnvald accompanied Magnus from Gardariki to Sweden, across the Kjöl to Veradal, and when Magnus came to Thrándheim all submitted to him; he was accepted as King at the Eyrar-Thing at Nídarós.

  "Rögnvald, Brúsi's son, made himself ready to go with King Magnus. They went first to Sweden, then to Jamtaland, crossed the Kjöl, and came to Veradal. When King Magnus came to Thrándheim, all the population submitted to him. Then he went down to Nídarós, and was accepted King of the whole country at the Eyrar-Thing."

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Ix > RöGnvald Asks Magnus For Leave To Go To The Islands.

• attestation: When Rögnvald came to Norway he learned his father Brúsi had died and Thorfinn had seized all the Orkneys; King Magnus gave him the title of Earl, three equipped war-ships, a grant of the third part that King Olaf had given to Brúsi, and promised his full friendship and assistance.

  "WHEN Rögnvald, Brúsi's son, came to Norway, he heard of the death of his father Brúsi, and at the same time, that Earl Thorfinn had taken possession of the whole of the Islands. Then he wished to visit his odal possessions, and asked King Magnus to permit him to go. The King saw that it was necessary for him to go, and willingly gave him permission. At the same time, he gave him the title of Earl, and three war-ships well equipped. He also gave him a grant of that third part of the Orkneys which King Olaf had possessed, and had given to his father Brúsi."

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter X > Of Rognvald'S Voyage.

• attestation: Rögnvald sailed to the Orkneys and sent messengers to Thorfinn claiming two-thirds of the islands—his father's third plus the third granted by King Magnus; Thorfinn was then in conflict with the Irish and Hebrideans and agreed to give Rögnvald the one third rightly his, saying the disputed third had been given up to King Olaf under duress.

  "EARL RÖGNVALD sailed for the Orkneys, and went first to the estates which his father had possessed. Thence he sent messengers to his kinsman, Earl Thorfinn, and asked for that third part (of the Islands) which had belonged to his father. He also requested them to tell him that he had obtained from King Magnus a grant of that third which had belonged to King Olaf. He therefore demanded two-thirds, if it was the pleasure of his kinsman Thorfinn."

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Xiv > Kalf Flees To The Orkneys.

• attestation: Rögnvald's friends were divided—some supported him, others said fighting Thorfinn who had Caithness, much of Scotland, and the Hebrides with only two-thirds of the Orkneys was foolishness; others urged him to offer Thorfinn half the islands and remain friends.

  "But when he asked them to declare themselves, their opinions were very different. Some spoke in favour of Earl Rögnvald, and said that one could not be hard upon him for not being willing to part with his possessions; others again said it was excusable on the part of Earl Thorfinn to desire to have those possessions for a while which Rögnvald had had before, and which had belonged to Earl Einar."

• attestation: Rögnvald resolved not to fight but to go to his foster-brother King Magnus in Norway to seek assistance; King Magnus received him well, offered him lands to sustain his men, and promised to give him whatever aid he needed, and sent word to Kálf Arnason that his estates would be restored if he took Rögnvald's part.

  "He made known his determination that he would not part with his possessions by any arrangement, but that he would rather leave them for a time, and go to King Magnus, his foster-brother, and see what assistance he would give him to retain them.

The King received Earl Rögnvald very well, and invited him to stay as long as he liked, and to receive such lands from him as were sufficient to keep him and his men; but Earl Rögnvald said he wished assistance to recover his possessions. King Magnus said he would certainly give him such aid as he stood in need of."

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Xv > Battle Of Raudabiorg.

• attestation: Rögnvald sailed from Norway via Shetland to the Orkneys with thirty large ships; Thorfinn met him in the Pentland Firth with sixty ships, most of them small; Kálf Arnason was present with six large ships but did not take part in the fight.

  "Earl Rögnvald collected his army together in the Orkneys, intending to cross over to Caithness, and when he sailed into the Pentland Firth he had thirty large ships. There he was met by Earl Thorfinn, who had sixty ships, but most of them small. They met off Raudabiorg (red cliff), and at once prepared for battle.

Kálf Arnason was there also; he had six ships, all of them large, but did not take part in the fight."

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Xvi > Earl Thorfinn Subdues The Islands.

• attribution: Rögnvald returned to King Magnus in Norway, who advised him to wait until winter passed before returning; Rögnvald resolved to go alone in a single well-manned ship to take the islands by surprise rather than lead an army.

  "Rögnvald in reply said that this time he would go without the King's men, adding that he could not lead an army against Earl Thorfinn without a great loss of men, as he had such extensive dominions in the west. "This time," he continued, "I intend to go to the west in a single ship, as well manned as possible; thus I expect there will be no news of us beforehand; and if I get to the Islands I shall take them by surprise, and then we may speedily gain such a victory as could hardly, if at all, be gained by a number of troops""

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Xvii > RöGnvald Comes To The Islands.

• attestation: Rögnvald sailed alone with one ship in winter and surprised Thorfinn in a house in Hrossey at night; Rögnvald's men secured all the doors and set the house on fire, permitting women and thralls to leave but not Thorfinn's henchmen.

  "Rögnvald went straightway to the Orkneys. Earl Thorfinn was in Hrossey, suspecting nothing. When Rögnvald arrived in the Orkneys, he went where he had heard that Earl Thorfinn was, and came upon him unawares, so that his presence was not known until he had secured all the doors of the house in which the Earl and his men were. It was in the night time, and most of the men were asleep, but the Earl was still sitting over his drink. Rögnvald and his men set fire to the house."

• attestation: After believing Thorfinn dead, Rögnvald seized all the Orkneys and sent messages to Caithness and the Hebrides claiming Thorfinn's domains; Thorfinn hid in Caithness with friends and his escape was unknown.

  "After this Rögnvald went over the Islands and took possession of them all. He also sent messages over to Ness (Caithness), and to the Sudreyar (Hebrides), to the effect that he intended to have all the dominions of Thorfinn, and nobody spoke against him. Earl Thorfinn was then in Caithness in hiding with his friends, and no news went abroad of his escape from the burning."

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Xviii > Earl RöGnvald Slain.

• attestation: Rögnvald was residing at Kirkwall before Christmas when Thorfinn surrounded the house in little Papey and set it on fire; Rögnvald had made a slip of the tongue that same evening, which made him suspect Thorfinn might still be alive.

  "EARL RÖGNVALD resided in Kirkiuvag (Kirkwall), and brought there all necessaries for the winter; he had a great number of men, and entertained them liberally. A little before Christmas the Earl went with a numerous following into little Papey to fetch malt for the Christmas brewing."

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Xix > Earl RöGnvald'S Burial.

• attestation: Earl Rögnvald's body was brought to the larger Papey and buried there; he was said to be one of the most accomplished and best-beloved of all the Earls of the Orkneys and his death was greatly lamented.

  "THE body of Earl Rögnvald was brought to the larger Papey and buried there. Men said that he was one of the most accomplished and best-beloved of all the Earls of the Orkneys; and his death was greatly lamented by all the people."

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Lxv > The Beacons Of The Orkneys Destroyed.

• attestation: Earl Rögnvald arrived one Friday evening at Höfn in Westrey while no beacons could be lit because Uni had wetted the one at Fridarey; the Westreymen submitted to Rögnvald and swore oaths of fealty.

  "EARL RÖGNVALD and his men said they would wait until the tidal currents were met by an east wind, for then it is hardly possible to go from Westrey to Hrossey, but with east wind one can sail from Hjaltland to Westrey. For this Rögnvald and his men waited, and came one Friday evening to Höfn,[338] in Westrey, to Helgi, who dwelt there.

No beacons could be lighted, for when the sails were seen from Fridarey, Eirik prepared to go to Earl Paul, and sent a man to Uni to light the beacon, but when he came there Uni was away. When the man tried to light the beacon himself, it was so wet that it would not burn."

• attestation: Helgi and Kugi led the Westreymen to make peace with Earl Rögnvald upon his arrival, and the Westreymen swore oaths of fealty to him.

  "When Earl Rögnvald had arrived in Westrey, the islanders ran together. Helgi and Kugi put themselves at their head, and their first plan was to try to make peace with the Earl; and their dealings ended in such a way that the Westreymen submitted to Earl Rögnvald, and swore him oaths of fealty."

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Lxvi > Rognvald Rules The Orkneys.

• attestation: After arriving in Westrey, Earl Rögnvald had mass celebrated on Sunday; all neighbouring districts submitted to him.

  "ON Sunday Earl Rögnvald had mass celebrated there in the village.[339] As they were standing outside the church, they saw sixteen men approaching unarmed, and with their hair close cut."

• attestation: Earl Rögnvald discovered a secret night meeting in Westrey against him; Farmer Kugi was seized and put in fetters, but the Earl pardoned him and all the conspirators, and they renewed their compact.

  "One night in Westrey the Earl's men became aware that the islanders were holding a secret meeting to devise some treachery against Earl Rögnvald. When the Earl heard of it, he rose and went to the place of meeting. When he came there, his men had beaten many of the islanders, and had taken Farmer Kugi and put him in fetters, saying that he was the author of all these proceedings. Kugi pled his cause eloquently, and many put in a word for him, and protested his innocence with him.

The Earl pardoned them all, and they renewed their compact."

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Lxvii > Of Earl Rognvald And Paul.

• attestation: The Bishop obtained a fortnight's truce between Rögnvald and Paul; Earl Rögnvald went to Hrossey and Paul to Rousay during the truce.

  "The Bishop procured a fortnight's truce, in order that they might endeavour to establish a more lasting peace. Then the islands were allocated that should maintain each of them in the meantime.[341] Earl Rögnvald went to Hrossey (Mainland), and Earl Paul to Hrólfsey (Rousay)."

• attestation: Earl Rögnvald declared that if God willed he should gain the Orkneys, the Holy Earl Magnus his kinsman would give him strength to hold them.

  "Earl Rögnvald replied: "If it is the will of God that I should gain possession of the Orkneys, I think He and the Holy Earl Magnus, my kinsman, will give me strength to hold them, even if you go home to your estates.""

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Lxx > Of Earl Rognvald And Swein, Asleif'S Son.

• attestation: The Bishop cleared Earl Rögnvald of suspicion in Paul's disappearance; witnesses saw Swein's barge coming from the south and returning, leading to suspicion of Frákork and Olvir.

  "Then Sigurd sent men to Egilsey, to the Bishop, to tell him the news. He went immediately to Sigurd. When they were talking about what had happened, Sigurd hinted that it had been done at the instigation of Earl Rögnvald; but the Bishop replied that it would be proved that Earl Rögnvald had not acted treacherously towards his kinsman Earl Paul.

Borgar, the son of Játvör, Erlend's daughter, who lived at Geitaberg, had seen the barge coming from the south, and returning. When this was heard, it was believed to have been done at the instigation of Frákork and Olvir."

• attestation: When Paul's disappearance became known, most islanders submitted to Rögnvald; Sigurd of Westness and his sons refused until they knew Paul's fate; Swein Ásleifarson arrived at Kirkwall and told the Bishop what he had done.

  "When the news spread in the Islands that Earl Paul had disappeared, and no one knew what had become of him, the Islanders had a consultation, and most of them went to Earl Rögnvald, and swore fealty to him; but Sigurd, of Westness, and his sons, Brynjúlf and Hákon Kló, said they would not swear oaths of fealty to any man while they did not know anything of Earl Paul, or whether he might he expected to return or not.

One day it happened in Kirkiuvag (Kirkwall) when Earl Rögnvald was holding a Thing meeting with the Bœndr, that nine armed men were seen walking from Skálpeid (Scapa) to the meeting. When they came near, Swein, Asleif's son, was recognised"

• attestation: Earl Rögnvald granted Swein three nights' security and met privately with him, his father Kol, and the Bishop; Swein told them everything about Earl Paul's abduction.

  "Earl Rögnvald replied: "For my part, I promise Swein three nights' security; but I think I can see from your countenance, Sir Bishop, that you and Swein know some great news which you have not yet made known. I wish you to take Swein into your keeping, and to be responsible for him, and I will speak to him to-morrow."

Then these four—Earl Rögnvald, his father Kol, the Bishop, and Swein, Asleif's son—had a private interview. Swein repeated everything, good and bad, that had happened between him and Earl Paul"

• attestation: After Paul's fate became known, all Orkneymen submitted to Earl Rögnvald; the foundations of St. Magnus' Church were laid and Kol oversaw construction; Rögnvald financed it by selling redemption rights on odal lands at one mark per plough-land.

  "When the news became generally known, all the Orkneymen submitted to Earl Rögnvald, and he became the sole ruler of Earl Paul's dominions.

Not long after this the foundations of St. Magnus' Church[349] were marked out, and craftsmen procured, so that more was done during that year than in the ensuing four or five. Kol took great interest in the erection of the building, and had the principal oversight of the whole

Then Earl Rögnvald called a Thing meeting, and proposed to the Bœndr that they should purchase the odal possessions, so that it would not be necessary to redeem them afterwards, and an agreement was made with which all parties were satisfied. It was to this effect, that they should pay the Earl one mark (eight oz. of silver) for each plough's land all over the Islands."

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Lxxi > Bishop JóN Arrives From Scotland.

• attestation: Bishop Jón of Athole visited Earl Rögnvald at his Yule feast at Knarrarstadir; both Bishop Jón and Bishop William then announced the arrangement that Harald Maddad's son would be co-earl with Rögnvald.

  "WHEN Earl Rögnvald had ruled the Orkneys two winters he had a Yule-feast at his estate called Knarrarstadir.[351]

Then both the Bishops went with a noble suite to visit Earl Rögnvald, and told him their business, explaining the agreement between Swein, Asleif's son, and Earl Maddad—namely, that their son Harald should bear the title of Earl, and have half the Orkneys jointly with Earl Rögnvald, but Earl Rögnvald should have the government in his hands, even when Harald grew up; and if a difference arose between them, Earl Rögnvald should have his own way."

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Lxxiv > Of Earl Rognvald And Swein.

• attestation: Earl Rögnvald reconciled Thorbiörn Klerk and Swein Ásleifarson, who both wished the Earl to judge between them; peace lasted a long time after.

  "When Swein came from the Sudreyar, he went home to his farm in Gáreksey (Gairsay), and not to Earl Rögnvald, as he used to do when he came from his expeditions.

Then Earl Rögnvald went to Gáreksey, and tried to reconcile them, which was easy, because they both wished the Earl to judge between them. Then he made peace between them, and it lasted for a long time after."

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Lxxv > Earl Rognvald'S Pleasantries.

• attestation: The Icelandic poet Hall son of Thórarinn Breidmagi came to the Orkneys; Earl Rögnvald initially refused to receive him but Ragna of Rínarsey obtained Hall a place at court through her intercession.

  "AT this time there came a certain Icelandic ship to the Orkneys, in which was a man by name Hall, the son of Thórarinn Breidmagi (broad waist). He went to Rínarsey (North Ronaldsay), to stay with Thorstein and Ragna. He became tired of staying there, and asked Thorstein to bring him to Earl Rögnvald. They went to see him, but the Earl would not receive Hall.

Shortly afterwards Ragna went to see Earl Rögnvald on this errand herself.

Then she took a silken kerchief and wrapped it round her head, continuing, nevertheless, her business with the Earl. He gave her a rather cold answer at first, but became more pleasant as they spoke longer, and she obtained what she wanted—namely, to procure for Hall a place at the (Earl's) court."

• attestation: Hall and Earl Rögnvald together composed the 'Old Metrekey' with five verses for each metre; afterwards only two verses per metre were made.

  "He remained a long time with Earl Rögnvald. They made jointly the "Old Metrekey,"[362] with five verses for each different metre. Afterwards that was thought too much, and now two verses only are made for each different metre."

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Lxxvi > Of Earl Rognvald And Swein, Asleif'S Son.

• attestation: Rögnvald compensated Thorbiörn and the other ship commanders out of his own money for what Swein had taken from their share, and asked them not to quarrel with Swein about it; Thorbiörn divorced Swein's sister Ingirid in retaliation.

  "The Earl said it would not be only once that Swein had turned out not to be an equitable man, yet he would in the end receive retribution for his injustice; but, he added: "You shall not quarrel about this. I shall give you as much money of my own as you have lost through him"

Thorbiörn replied: "May God reward you, my lord, for the honour you do us, and we shall not quarrel with Swein about this; but I shall never be his friend any more, and I shall do him some despite in return." And after that Thorbiörn divorced himself from Ingirid, Swein's sister, and sent her to him over to Ness (Caithness)."

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Lxxvii > Of Swein, Asleif'S Son'S Movements.

• attestation: Earl Rögnvald besieged Swein at Lambaborg; Swein refused to surrender Margad to his enemies but wished peace with the Earl; Thorbiörn Klerk and Swein exchanged bitter words at the siege.

  "At last Earl Rögnvald crossed over to Ness (Caithness), and the following chiefs with him:—Thorbiörn; Haflidi, Thorkel's son; and Dúfniál, Hávard's son. These counselled the most severe measures against Swein. They went to Dungalsbæ, but Swein was not there. They heard that he was in Lambaborg, and then the Earl went thither. When they came to the borg, Swein asked who their leader was, and he was told that it was Earl Rögnvald. Swein asked him what he wanted. The Earl said he wished him to deliver Margad up to them. Swein asked whether he was to receive quarter. The Earl said he would not promise. Then Swein said: "I have not the heart to deliver Margad into the power of Swein, Hróald's son, or of my other enemies who are with you, but I should wish very much to be at peace with you, my lord.""

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Lxxviii. > Earl ValthióF'S Death.

• attestation: After Swein and Margad escaped Lambaborg, the garrison surrendered to Earl Rögnvald, who pardoned them all; Rögnvald praised Swein's bold escape and sent Thorbiörn to search for him in the south.

  "WHEN Swein and Margad had left Lambaborg,[366] those that were in the fort resolved to surrender it to Earl Rögnvald. He asked them what they knew last of Swein and Margad, and they told the truth.

When the Earl heard it, he said: "To tell the truth, Swein has no equal among those that are now with us, and such feats are both brave and hardy; but I will not abuse my power over you, although you were involved in these troubles with Swein. Every one of you shall go home in peace as far as I am concerned.""

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Lxxix > Of Eindridi Ungi (The Young).

• attestation: It was resolved that no ship on the Jerusalem expedition would exceed thirty benches except the Earl's, and only the Earl might have an ornamented vessel; Jón Fót was commissioned to build the Earl's ship.

  "It was resolved that none of them should have a larger ship than with thirty benches, except the Earl, and no one should have an ornamented vessel but he. This was done in order that no one should envy another because he had finer men or a better ship than he. Jón Fót (leg) was to build a ship for the Earl, and to have it as finely fitted out as possible."

• attestation: After the shipwreck in Shetland, Earl Rögnvald bore himself as the bravest of the men, played with his fingers, and spoke nearly all his sayings in rhyme.

  "As usual, Earl Rögnvald bore himself as the bravest of all the men there. He was so merry that he played with his fingers, and spoke nearly all his sayings in rhyme."

• attestation: After shipwreck in Shetland, Earl Rögnvald stayed a long time there; in autumn he went to the Orkneys and had a grand Yule feast, giving poet Armód a gold-inlaid spear and receiving a verse in return.

  "The Earl stayed a long time in Hjaltland, and in the autumn he went south to the Orkneys, and resided in his dominions. That autumn two Hjaltlanders[373] came to him. One was named Armód, a poet; the other was Oddi the little, the son of Glúm: he made verses well. The Earl received them both as his men. The Earl had a grand Yule feast, to which he invited guests, and gave his men presents. He handed a spear, inlaid with gold, to the poet Armód, shook it at him, and told him to make a song on the spur of the moment"

• attestation: During Yule, Earl Rögnvald challenged Oddi the little to compose a stanza on the tapestry using none of the same words as the Earl's own stanza, which Oddi successfully accomplished.

  "One day during Yule the guests were looking at the tapestry. The Earl said to Oddi the little: "Make a song about the workman's handicraft on the tapestry, and have it made by the time that I have finished my stanza, and use none of the same words that are in mine.""

• attestation: Earl Rögnvald announced his Jerusalem pilgrimage at Yule; Bishop William agreed to accompany as interpreter; commanders included Magnus Hávard's son, Swein Hróald's son, Erling Skakki, Eindridi Ungi, and others.

  "During Yule-tide, the Earl entertained Bishop William and many of his chiefs. Then he made known his intention to go to Jórsalaheim (Jerusalem), and requested the Bishop to go with him, because he was a good Parisian scholar,[374] and the Earl wished him to be their interpreter. The Bishop agreed to the Earl's request, and promised to go. The following chiefs went with Earl Rögnvald:—Magnus, the son of Hávard, Gunni's son; Swein, Hróald's son; and the following men of lesser note:—Thorgeir Skotakoll, Oddi the little, Thorberg Svarti, Armód the scald, Thorkel Krókauga, Grímkell of Flettuness, and Bjarni his son."

• attestation: Eindridi Ungi broke the agreement by arriving in Bergen with an ornamented dragon ship; Earl Rögnvald's fleet of fifteen ships left the Orkneys; all arrived safely in the Orkneys in autumn.

  "To Biörgvin came also the ship which Jón Fót had caused to be built for the Earl. It was a most exquisite piece of workmanship, and all ornamented. The whole of the carved work on the prow, the vanes, and many other parts of the ship, were gilt. Altogether, it was a most splendid ship.

The Earl's men said that was very likely Eindridi's, adding: "He has not kept well the agreement that no one should have an ornamented ship except you, sire."

Eindridi soon passed them in the larger vessel, but the Earl kept all his ships together, and had a successful voyage. They arrived all safe in the Orkneys in the autumn."

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Lxxx > Of Earl Rognvald And The Orkneymen.

• attestation: At a city in Valland (Narbonne), the inhabitants offered Earl Rögnvald the Queen Ermingerda in marriage; he declined until his return from Jerusalem, then departed via Galicia.

  "The Earl stayed there a long time, and was well entertained. The inhabitants of the city solicited him to take up his residence there, saying that they were in favour of giving the Queen to him in marriage. The Earl said he wished to complete his intended journey, but that he would come there on his return, and then they might do what they thought fit. Then the Earl left with his retinue, and sailed round Thrasness."

• attestation: At Galicia five nights before Yule, the inhabitants offered to sell provisions in exchange for Earl Rögnvald attacking a foreign lord who had oppressed them from his castle; Rögnvald agreed.

  "They went on till they came west to Galicialand,[377] five nights before Yule-tide, and intended to spend it there. They asked the inhabitants whether they were willing to sell them provisions

the country was under the rule of a foreigner, who resided in the castle, and oppressed the inhabitants greatly.

Earl Rögnvald should attack their enemies, and should have all the money which he might obtain from them. The Earl communicated this to his men, and asked them what they would be inclined to do. Most of them were willing to attack the castle

Therefore Earl Rögnvald and his men agreed to the terms of the inhabitants."

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Lxxxi > Earl Rognvald Takes A Castle.

• attestation: On the tenth day of Yule, Earl Rögnvald stormed the castle at Galicia; Erling Skakki's prediction proved correct—the lime cracked and the wall fell; they entered the castle and killed many but Gudifrey escaped, suspected with Eindridi's help.

  "THE tenth day of Yule-tide was a fine day, and Earl Rögnvald arose and commanded his men to arm themselves, and summoned them with trumpets to the attack of the castle. They dragged the wood close to it, and heaped up large piles round the walls.

What Erling had foretold came to pass; the lime could not stand the fire, and the wall fell down, leaving large breaches open.

Then the Earl and Sigmund prepared to force their way into the castle, and meeting with little resistance, they entered it, and many were killed; but those that surrendered to the Earl received quarter. They obtained a great deal of property, but did not find the chief, and almost no treasure.

they soon suspected Eindridi Ungi that he had given him the means of escaping"

• attestation: After Galicia, Rögnvald's fleet plundered in Spain and sailed through the Strait of Gibraltar (Njörfasund); Eindridi Ungi then broke away with six ships to Marseilles, leaving Earl Rögnvald to sail south toward Sardinia.

  "After this Earl Rögnvald and his men stayed a short time in Galicialand, and directed their course along the west of Spain. They plundered far and wide in heathen Spainland,[378] and obtained great booty.

They sailed through Njörfasund, and then the gale began to abate; and when they had cleared the Sound, Eindridi Ungi parted from the Earl with six ships, and sailed across the sea to Marselia (Marseilles), but Earl Rögnvald and his men remained at the Sound.

The Earl's men sailed out to sea, and stood southwards to Serkland.[380]

More is not said of the Earl's progress till they came south off Serkland, and lay near Sardinia"

• attestation: Off Sardinia in fog, Rögnvald identified what appeared to be two islands as Drómundar (large Muslim ships); he resolved to attack them.

  "One morning the mist disappeared, and the crew arose and looked around and saw two islets. When they looked for them the second time, there was but one islet. This they told to the Earl. Then he said: "This cannot have been islets which you have seen; it must be ships such as they have in this part of the world, and which they call Drómundar.[381] From a distance they look as big as holms. But where the other Drómund lay, a puff of wind has probably swept over the water, and she has sailed away; but they are likely some rovers.""

• attestation: Earl Rögnvald resolved to attack the Drómund despite the Bishop's warnings; he ordered every fiftieth penny of booty to be given to the poor if God gave them victory.

  "The Bishop replied: "I think you will find it difficult to attack the Drómund in your long-ships, for you will hardly be able to reach their bulwarks with a boarding-pike, and they have probably brimstone and boiling pitch to pour under your feet and over your heads."

The Earl said: "That is bravely spoken, and very much to my own mind. I will now make it known to the ships' commanders and all the men, that every one may arm and prepare himself, each in his own place, as well as he can. Then let us attack them, and if they are Christian merchants, we can make peace with them; but if they are heathens, which I think they are, by the favour of Almighty God we shall be able to overcome them, but of the booty we obtain we shall give every fiftieth penny to the poor.""

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Lxxxii > RöGnvald Conquers The DróMund.

• attestation: Rögnvald's fleet boarded the Drómund by hacking holes in the hull; Erling Skakki and his man Andun Raudi scaled the ship via an anchor; the Saracens and black men were defeated; Erling received a neck wound that left him permanently crooked — hence his name Skakki (crick-neck).

  "Earl Rögnvald brought his ship close under the stem of the Drómund, on the starboard side. Erling did the same on the larboard side.

Earl Rögnvald then ordered his men to take their axes, and cut the planks of the Drómund, where the iron fastenings were fewest;

One of his forecastle men was named Andun Raudi (red); he was lifted up on the anchor-stock, and then he pulled up others.

Those in the Drómund were Saracens, whom we call Mahometan infidels. There were also many black men, who withstood them most fiercely. Erling received a severe wound in the neck, near the shoulder, when he jumped on board; it healed so badly that he carried his head to a side ever after, and therefore he was called crick-neck (Skakki)."

• attestation: Earl Rögnvald declared that Andun Raudi was the first to board the Drómund; the fleet then sailed to Acre, arriving on a Friday morning with great pomp.

  "Then the Earl sang:

            Audun Raudi was the man who
            First, with energy and valour,
            Scaled the black sides of the Drómund;
            Soon the brave one seized his booty.
  

Earl Rögnvald sailed to Crete, and anchored in a strong gale.

They lay off Crete until they had fair wind to Jórsalir (Jerusalem), and arrived early on a Friday morning at Akursborg (Acre). They went on shore with great pomp and splendour, such as seldom had been seen there."

• attestation: A disease broke out in Acre and many of Rögnvald's men died there, including the poet Thorbiörn Svarti.

  "They stayed in Akursborg for a while, and a disease broke out among their men, of which many died. Thorbiörn Svarti died there."

• attestation: Earl Rögnvald and Sigmund Ongul swam across the Jordan River and tied large knots in shrubs on the feast day of St. Lawrence.

  "Earl Rögnvald and his men left Akursborg, and visited all the holiest places of Jorsalaland. They went all to Jordan and bathed. Earl Rögnvald and Sigmund Ongul swam across the river, and went to some shrubs and tied large knots.[382]"

• attestation: Earl Rögnvald's men left Jerusalem in summer headed for Constantinople; in autumn they stopped at a town called Imbolum.

  "During the summer Earl Rögnvald and his men left Jorsalaland, and were going to Mikligard. In the autumn they came to a town called Imbolum,[383] and stayed there a long time."

• attestation: Jón Fót, who had built Earl Rögnvald's ship, was found murdered under a town wall on the return journey; who killed him was never known.

  "Some time after, it happened that they came from the town very drunk, and Jón Fót was missed by his men, and no one else was missing. They sent immediately to the other ships to search for him, but he was not found. They could not search for him on shore during the night; but in the morning, when it was daylight, they found him murdered under the wall of the town; but it was never known who had slain him. They buried him honourably at a holy church"

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Lxxxiii. > Of Earl RöGnvald.

• attestation: Earl Rögnvald was received by Emperor Manuli (Manuel) of Constantinople and the Varangians; Eindridi Ungi was also there and was highly honoured by the Emperor but spoke slightingly of Rögnvald.

  "RÖGNVALD and his men came to Mikligard, and were well received by the Emperor and the Væringiar.[385] At this time Menelaus, whom we call Manuli,[386] was the Emperor of Mikligard. He gave them a great deal of money, and offered them pay if they would stay there permanently. They spent there a great part of the winter. Eindridi Ungi was there when they came, and was highly honoured by the Emperor. He had little to do with the Earl and his men, but rather spoke slightingly of them to others."

• attestation: Earl Rögnvald returned via Rome and Denmark to Norway; the Jerusalem journey became very famous; all who made it were considered greater men afterwards.

  "Rögnvald commenced his journey from Mikligard during the winter, and went first to Dýraksborg[387] in Bólgaraland. From there they sailed west to Púll.[388] Earl Rögnvald, Erling, Bishop William, and most others of their noblest men left their ships there, procured horses, and rode first to Rómaborg (Rome), and then from Róm until they came to Denmark. From there they went to Norway, where the people were glad to see them. This journey became very famous, and all those who had made it were considered greater men afterwards than before."

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Lxxxiv > Earl RöGnvald Goes To The Orkneys.

• attestation: Earl Rögnvald returned to the Orkneys in a merchant vessel of Thórhall Asgrím's son, arriving shortly before Yule; the Orkneys were divided between factions of Earl Harald and Earl Erlend with Swein Ásleifarson.

  "IN the summer the Earl made himself ready to go west to his dominions in the Orkneys, but it was late before he was ready, because many things kept him back. He went to the west in a merchant-vessel belonging to Thórhall, Asgrím's son, an Icelander of a noble family, who had a farm south in Biskupstungur.[392] The Earl had a numerous train of noblemen on board the vessel. When they came to Scotland the winter was far advanced, and they lay at Torfnes.[393] The Earl arrived in his dominions shortly before Yule."

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Xciv > Peace Is Talked Of.

• attestation: Earl Rögnvald married his daughter Ingirid to Eirík Slagbrellir in Sutherland; Thorbiörn Klerk attacked Rögnvald's men at Thurso during a peace meeting, killing thirteen of his men and wounding Rögnvald in the face.

  "Earl Rögnvald was in Sutherland, at the wedding of his daughter Ingirid, whom he married to Eirík Slagbrellir.

Thorbiörn Klerk had arrived there with a large party, and attacked Rögnvald's men immediately. The Earls called to them that they should not fight. Then the inhabitants of the town came running to the spot to separate them. Thirteen of Earl Rögnvald's men were killed, and he himself was wounded in the face."

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Xcv > Swein'S Plans.

• attestation: After the Thurso affray, Rögnvald and Harald made peace and that same night jointly attacked Earl Erlend; Swein counselled Erlend to sail to Caithness and sent false word they were going to the Hebrides; Rögnvald warned his men that Swein would come the more certainly the more he talked of going away.

  "AFTER this their friends made an effort to establish peace between them, and the result was that they made peace, which they confirmed by oaths. They renewed their alliance, pledging their faith and shaking hands; and it was resolved that they should go that very night out to the Orkneys to attack Earl Erlend.

Swein replied that they should sail that very night over to Caithness, saying that they had no strength to contend with both the Earls there in the Islands. He gave out that they intended to go to the Sudreyar (Hebrides), and winter there.

When this came to the ears of Earl Rögnvald, he called his men together and made a speech to them, telling them to be on their guard

"For now," he said, "Swein may be expected every hour in the Islands; the more certainly the more he talks of going away.""

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Xcvi > Battle Between The Three Earls.

• attestation: Earl Rögnvald slept at Knarrarstadir, away from his ship, on the night Erlend and Swein launched their surprise attack; the Icelander Bótólf Begla misdirected the pursuers with a verse and then awoke Rögnvald who escaped to his residence at Orphir.

  "DURING the night there fell a shower of sleet, and Earl Rögnvald left his ship with six men, intending to go to his residence at Jórfiara (Orphir), because he expected no danger. During the shower they came to Knarrarstadir. An Icelander, by name Bótólf Begla, an excellent skald, lived there. He pressed Earl Rögnvald with many invitations to stay there during the night.

Bótólf went into the house, awoke the Earl, and told him what had happened during the night, and also what the Earl's men were doing. Rögnvald and his men started up instantly, and put on their clothes; then they went away to the Earl's residence at Jórfiara"

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Civ > Of The Earls.

• attestation: Thórarinn Killinef, one of Rögnvald's men, was wounded by Thorkel who was one of Thorbiörn's men; Thórarinn recovered and killed Thorkel as he went to church; Rögnvald prevented Thorbiörn from breaking open the church; the case was not settled.

  "Thórarinn and Thorkel quarrelled over their drink at Kirkiuvag, and Thorkel wounded Thórarinn, and then escaped to Thorbiörn.

When Thórarinn had recovered from his wounds, he slew Thorkel as he was going to church. He ran into the church, but Thorbiörn and his men pursued him. Earl Rögnvald was told what was happening, and he went there with his men, and asked Thorbiörn whether he was going to break the church open. Thorbiörn said the church ought not to shelter him who was within. Earl Rögnvald said there should be no violation of the church at this time, and Thorbiörn was pushed away from it. No agreement was come to about this case."

• attestation: Gillaodran, a violent man in disfavour with the King of Scots, came to the Orkneys and was made steward in Caithness; he killed Helgi, a noble bondi and friend of Rögnvald's; Sumarlidi Höld of Dalir had sons Dufgall, Rögnvald, and Engull, called the Dalverja family.

  "There was a man called Gillaodran with the King of Scots.

He fled to the Orkneys, and the Earls received him. Then he went to Caithness, and acted as a steward for the Earls. There was a noble Bondi in Caithness, by name Helgi, a friend of Earl Rögnvald's. Gillaodran quarrelled with him about the stewardship, and Gillaodran attacked and killed him. After the slaughter he went west to Scotland's Fiord, and was received by a chief named Sumarlidi Höld,[438] who had possessions in Dalir, on Scotland's Fiord. His wife was Ragnhild, the daughter of Olaf Bitling (little bit), King of the Sudreyar. Their sons were King Dufgall, Rögnvald, and Engull.[439] They were called the Dalverja family."

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Cvii > The Slaying Of Earl RöGnvald.

• attestation: Twenty-two winters after Earl Paul was taken prisoner, Thorbiörn Klerk ambushed Earl Rögnvald in Kálfadal; Thorbiörn's sword cut off Asólf's hand which he raised to ward the blow, then wounded Rögnvald deeply in the chin.

  "WHEN Earl Rögnvald had been an Earl two-and-twenty winters from the time that Earl Paul was taken prisoner, the Earls went over to Caithness during the latter part of the summer as usual, and when they came to Thórsá they heard a rumour to the effect that Thorbiörn was there in hiding with not a few men, and that he intended to attack them if he had an opportunity.

Thorbiörn was at this farm, and was sitting indoors drinking. The passages led to the end of the house close to the gable, which had a door filled loosely with stones. Thorbiörn and his men, hearing the words of Höskuld when he saluted Earl Rögnvald, seized their weapons, pushed the stones from the concealed door, and ran out. Thorbiörn ran round the gable, and on to the wall of the passage. The Earl was then close to the door. Thorbiörn struck at him, and Asólf warded off the blow with his hand, and it was cut off; and then the sword touched the Earl's chin, inflicting a great wound."

• attestation: Thorbiörn Klerk killed Earl Rögnvald with a sword blow to the chin at Kálfadal; Thorbiörn made a speech to Earl Harald pleading that he had advanced Harald's interests and that Rögnvald had intended the same fate for him.

  "Those who were with Earl Rögnvald stood sorrowing over his dead body, and some time passed before Earl Harald heard the news.

Thorbiörn called to Earl Harald, saying, "Kinsman! I wish to ask you to give me quarter, and I am willing to leave the decision of this case entirely in your hands. I will reserve nothing which may contribute to your honour. I also think, kinsman, you must remember that there have been quarrels in which you would not have made such a difference between Earl Rögnvald and me that you would have killed me for having done this deed, when he had you under his thumb, and left you no more power than if you had been his page; but I gave you the best gifts, and endeavoured to further your honour in every way I could.""

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Cviii > The Removal Of Earl RöGnvald'S Body.

• attestation: Earl Rögnvald Kali died five nights after summer Marymas; he was buried at Magnus Kirk in the Orkneys; Bishop Bjarni later had his remains exhumed after miracles testified to his sanctity; his blood on stones remained fresh.

  "EARL RÖGNVALD KALI died five nights after the summer Marymas.[446] Earl Harald brought the body with a splendid following to the Orkneys, and it was buried at the Magnus Kirk; and there it rested until God manifested Rögnvald's merits by many and great miracles. Then Bishop Bjarni had his holy remains exhumed with the permission of the Pope.[447] Where the blood of the Earl fell on the stones when he died, it may be seen to this day as fresh as if it had just come from the wounds."

• attestation: Earl Rögnvald was praised as liberal, gentle, a true friend, highly accomplished, and a good skald; he left one daughter Ingigerd who was married to Eirík Slagbrellir; their children were Harald Ungi, Magnus Mangi, Rögnvald, Ingibiorg, Elín, and Ragnhild.

  "Earl Rögnvald's death was much lamented, because he was very popular in the Islands and in many other parts. He had been helpful to many, was liberal with his money, gentle, and a true friend, highly accomplished, and a good scald. He left a daughter, Ingigerd, an only child, who was married to Eirík Slagbrellir. Their children were Harald Ungi, Magnus Mangi, Rögnvald, Ingibiorg, Elín, and Ragnhild."

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Cxiv > Of The Orkneymen.

• attestation: King Rögnvald Gudröd's son collected armies from the Sudreyar, Kintyre, and Ireland; he went north and took possession of Caithness, while Earl Harald kept to the Orkneys.

  "he collected an army from all the kingdom of the Sudreyar and from Satiri (Kintyre). He had also a large army from Ireland. Then he went north to Caithness, took possession of the whole of the territory, and remained there some time. Earl Harald kept in the Orkneys, and took no heed of the King's movements."

• attestation: Rögnvald left three stewards over Caithness: Máni Olaf's son, Rafn the lawman, and Hlífólf Alli; then returned to the Sudreyar.

  "He left three stewards (sýslumenn) over Caithness. One was Máni, Olaf's son; the second Rafn, the lawman; and the third, Hlífólf Alli."

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Cxvii > The Dominions Of King Harald And Earl RöGnvald.

• attestation: Earl Rögnvald assisted Harald Harfagri to conquer Norway and received revenues of Mœri and Raumsdal; Rögnvald married Ragnhild daughter of Hrólf Nefia; their son Hrólf conquered Normandy and was called Gönguhrólf (the walker) because no horse could carry him.

  "Earl Rögnvald assisted Harald Harfagri (fair-haired) to conquer the country (Norway), and he gave him the revenues of both Mœri and Raumsdal. Rögnvald had married Ragnhild, the daughter of Hrólf Nefia (nose). They had a son named Hrólf, who conquered Normandy. Hrólf was so big that no horse could carry him, and he was therefore called Gönguhrólf (Hrólf the walker). From him the Earls of Rúda (Rouen) and the Kings of England are descended."

The Orkneyinga Saga > Chapter Cxvii > Einar Comes To The Islands.

• attestation: Rögnvald told Hrollaug his way lay towards Iceland where he would increase his family to noble stock; he told Einar he was unlikely to become a chief due to his thrall-born maternal kin, but gave him a ship and King Harald gave him the earldom title.

  "The Earl replied: "It will never be your fortune to become an Earl. Your way lies towards Iceland. There you will increase your family, and it will be a noble one."

Then Einar, his youngest son, came forward and said: "Would you like me to go to the Islands?"