225 Of King Olaf’s Armour
King Olaf was armed thus:—He had a gold-mounted helmet on his head; and had in one hand a white shield, on which the holy cross was inlaid in gold. In his other hand he had a lance, which to the present day stands beside the altar in Christ Church. In his belt he had a sword, which was called Hneiter, which was remarkably sharp, and of which the handle was worked with gold. He had also a strong coat of ring-mail. Sigvat the skald, speaks of this:—
“A greater victory to gain,
Olaf the Stout strode o’er the plain
In strong chain armour, aid to bring
To his brave men on either wing.
High rose the fight and battle-heat,—
the clear blood ran beneath the feet
Of Swedes, who from the East came there,
In Olaf’s gain or loss to share.”