"I am a builder of
strong towers, and I have heard that the folk of Asgard need one to help
them raise a fair fortress in their city."
Heimdal looked at the stranger narrowly, for there was that about him
which his sharp eyes did not like. But he made no answer, only blew on
his golden horn, which was so loud that it sounded through all the
world. At this signal all the AEsir came running to the rainbow bridge,
from wherever they happened to be, to find out who was coming to Asgard.
For it was Heimdal's duty ever to warn them of the approach of the
unknown.
"This fellow says he is a builder," quoth Heimdal. "And he would fain
build us a fortress in the city."
"Ay, that I would," nodded the stranger, "Look at my iron arm; look at
my broad back; look at my shoulders. Am I not the workman you need?"
"Truly, he is a mighty figure," vowed Odin, looking at him approvingly.
"How long will it take you alone to build our fortress? We can allow but
one stranger at a time within our city, for safety's sake."
"In three half-years," replied the stranger, "I will undertake to build
for you a castle so strong that not even the giants, should they swarm
hither over Midgard--not even they could enter without your leave."
"Aha!" cried Father Odin, well pleased at this offer. "And what reward
do you ask, friend, for help so timely?"
The stranger hummed and hawed and pulled his long beard while he
thought.
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