THE ELDER EDDA OF SAEMUND
thee at their board; for well the Æsir know for whom they ought to hold a joyous compotation.
Loki.
9. Odin! dost thou remember when we in early days blended our blood together? When to taste beer thou didst constantly refuse, unless to both 'twas offered?
Odin.
10. Rise up, Vidar! and let the wolf's sire sit at our compotation; that Loki may not utter words of contumely in Œgir's hall.
Vidar then rising, presented Loki with drink, who before drinking thus addressed the Æsir:
11. Hail, Æsir! Hail, Asyniur! And ye, all-holy gods! all, save that one As, who sits within there, Bragi, on yonder bench.
Bragi.
12. A horse and falchion I from my stores will give thee, and also with a ring reward thee, if thou the Æsir wilt not requite with malice. Provoke not the gods against thee.
Loki.
13. Of horse and rings wilt thou ever, Bragi! be in want. Of the Æsir and the Alfar, that are here present, in conflict thou art the most backward, and in the play of darts most timid.
Bragi.
14. I know that were I without, as I am now within, the hall of Œgir, I thy head would bear in my hand, and so for lying punish thee.
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