1 There lived in Norway, not far from the city of Drontheim, a rich and prosperous gentleman. He had an only daughter, called Aslog, the fame of whose beauty spread far and wide. The greatest men of the country sought her, but all were alike unsuccessful in their suit. Her father, who thought his daughter delayed her choice 5 only that she might choose the better, refrained from interfering, and rejoiced in her prudence*. But when, at length, the richest and noblest had tried their fortune with as little success as the rest, he grew angry, called his daughter and said to her:

"Until now I have left you to your free choice, but since I see that you reject all without any distinction, and the very best of your suitors seem not good enough 10 for you, I will consider your wishes no longer. What! Shall my family become extinct, and my inheritance pass away into the hands of strangers? I will break your stubborn spirit. I give you now till the festival of the great Winter-night; by that time you must make your decision, or prepare to accept the husband whom I myself shall select."

15 Now Aslog secretly loved a youth named Orm, handsome, noble and brave. She loved him with her whole soul, and would sooner die than grant her hand to another. But Orm was poor, and poverty compelled him to keep his love as secret as her own.

When Aslog saw the darkness of her father's countenance**, and heard his angry 20 words, she turned pale as death, for she knew his temper, and doubted not that he would put his threats into execution. Without uttering a word in reply, she retired to her chamber, and pondered vainly how to escape the storm that hung over her.