As Olaf, however, agreed to the alternative of
marrying
Astrida, the base-born daughter to Olaus the Tributary; after some difficulty, her father's consent was obtained, but only because he feared a rising of his chiefs and people were it refused.
O'Hanlon - Lives of the Irish Saints - v7
" Nee ilia solicitudo regni limitibus ter- minibatur : majora de Christiana re mereri cupiens, anxie in vicinarum gentium mores et instituta praesertim quae religionetti spec- tabant, inquirebat ; Orcadensium nempe,
Hialtlanor—um, Fsereyensium, et Islando-
vegicarum," tomus ii. ,
"
Torfa. *us, Ilistoria Rerum Nor-
p. 78-
6
"
Histoiia Rerum Nor-
lib. i. ,
See Les Petits Bollandists' Vies des
950. See Torfaeus,
Appendix ii. ,
rum,"&c.
vegicarum," tomus iii. , lib. ii. , cap. ii. , pp. 63, 64.
45 8 LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. [July 29.
several places, he demolished the idolatrous temples by force, and much to the dislike of the more uncultivated mountaineers.
Whenever Olaf had an interval of repose, he endeavoured to gtfvern his
kingdom according to justice, but tempered with severity. Especially, he had great zeal to promote the glory of God, and the welfare of religion. It would seem, however, that fear of his power, rather than love for God, obliged numbers of his subjects to become obedient to their new sovereign's decrees. Having settled his kingdom—as was thought in peace—Olaf was anxious to eradicate all popular superstitions and pagan usages, so that his people might the sooner embrace the truths of the Gospel. However, this course of pro- ceeding raised against him many enemies, as the pagans were much addicted to their old superstitions and laws ; while these were abandoned, by most of them, with much reluctance. 8
The Sagas inform us, that when King Olaf was with his mother on a visit, she brought out her children, and showed them to him. The king took his brother Guttorm on one knee, and his brother Halfdan on the other. In a sportive mood with the children, the king made a wry face, and both the boys were frightened. Thereupon, Aasta brought her youngest son Harald
—then only three years old—and
also made a
without regarding it, the infant boy looked him steadily in the face. The king
face at him
took him by the hair, and plucked it; then that child seized the king's whiskers,
:
in retaliation, and gave them a tug. Whereupon Olaf cried out " Ah my
friend, hereafter thou shalt be revengeful. " When the king was walking about the farm next day with his mother, they came to a place where her sons Gu—t- torm and Halfdan we—re amusing themselves. At play, these were engaged as children often are with building imaginary houses and barns, which they were filling with supposed cattle and sheep. Beside them was a pool of water, where Harald was sailing chips of wood close to the edge. The king then asked what these were, and Harald answered, that they were his ships of
war. The king then laughed and said
:
thou wilt command ships. "
:
the
king
wry
;
but,
" The time may come, friend, when Then calling to him Guttorm and Halfdan, he from the former " What would thou like best to have ? " He
enquired
replied: "Corn-land. " "And how great wouldst thou like that corn-land
:
tobe? "askedthe ThensaidGuttorm "Iwouldhavethewhole
king.
of land that runs into the lake sown with corn every summer. " On that
tongue of land there were ten farms. The king replied : "There should b'e
:
a great deal of corn in it. " Then turning to Halfdan, Olaf asked " And
" :
Halfdan said
:
what wouldst thou best like to have ? " He replied
king enquired, how many he should wish to have.
they went to the lake to be watered, I would like to have so many, that they should stand as tight as they could around the lake. " Then Olaf replied : " That ought make a great house-keeping, and therein you take after your
father. " The
now turned to Harald, and said
" What wouldst thou
king
best like to have? " He replied :" House servants. " "And how many
O abletoeatupmybrother'scowsatasinglemeal,"saidHarald. Theking
"
wouldst thou like to have ? " asked the king.
laughed, and turning to Aasta, cried out :
so many as should be Here, mother, thou art bringing
up a king. "9
During the autumn of 1017, when peace had been ratified between him-
self and the King of Sweden, Olaf set out from Sarpsburg and went to
8 See Matthew of Paris, " Chronica Ma- 9 See Rev. S. Baring-Gould's "Lives of
jora," vol. i. , p. 507. Edited by Henry the Saints," vol. vii. , July 29, pp. 655,
Richards Luard, M. A.
656.
"
!
Cows. " Thenthe
:
" When
!
spit
July 29. ] LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. 459
Vingulmarch, so that he might have a royal progress among his people. He became a missionary as well as a monarch ; for, wherever he deemed it necessary to place a priest, he took care to found a station. The people refused in many instances to hear his preachers, and it would seem even, that the latter were persecuted by the heathens, in some shape or form. It maybe,thatmurdersoroutrageshadbeenperpetrated; for,thosepeoplewere exceedingly ferocious and barbarous, while the practices of those limes in the northern countries were often cruel and most revolting. Perhaps, also, the Christian temples had been ruined, or profaned, or the most sacred mysteries of religion had been abused ; otherwise, it should be very difficult to account for the very severe punishments, stated to have been inflicted on the idolaters,
so and humane a 10 A zealot in his endeavours to establish by just king.
Christianity, Olaf seems often to have wanted prudence, in the prosecution of his design ; while his arbitrary action and violent proceedings to overturn
idolatry caused much opposition, from a great proportion of his subjects. With three hundred soldiers. Olaf entered Raumarich, where he found that
Christianity had made little progress, and the king over that province seems to have greatly incurred his displeasure. The latter set out for Hraereck,
King of Heidmarch, and reputed to be one of the wisest among the Uplanders. His counsel was next sought, in that juncture of Hraereck's affairs. They next sent for Gudriod, King of Dalor, and the King of —Hada- land. The—se all assembled in the town of Heidmarch Hringisakro now Rindsaker where King Hring, the brother of Hraereck, dwelt and there
;
they conspired against King Olaf, whom they were resolved to depose and put to death. However, one Ketill Kalf had been in their confidence, and soon ordering his galley, in a short time he saw Olaf, and exposed all their designs. Without delay, the king convoked the chief counsellors of his kingdom,orderingthemtohavethreehundredsoldiersreadyforservice. His plans had been formed in great secrecy, and they were promptly executed. Having procured horses for his soldiers, and a fleet of vessels on the lake, all were to be in readiness for his approach, at a time appointed. Afterwards, going to the church, to assist devoutly at Mass, according to his usual cus- tom, and having arranged all things for his expedition, after dinner he went on board KethTs ship, with several companions, while the rest of his attend- ants embarked on other vessels. When the shades of evening set in, they began to row across the placid lake ; and, by daylight, they all reached Rindsaker,tothenumberoffourhundred. Theconspiratorswerearrested and surprised in a house, where they had assembled ; while, being unarmed and helpless, they were brought prisoners before King Olaf. As being the most astute and dangerous among them, he ordered Hraereck to be deprived of both eyes, while he cut off Gudriod's tongue ; Hring and the other two he banished from Norway, exacting from them an oath, that they would not return. Then, he confiscated all their districts, which lands he reserved for his own use. With the henchmen of those chiefs he dealt, according as they had been more or less deeply implicated or dangerous as conspirators.
The action of Olaf and his successes caused great hostility and hatred towards him, by Canute, King of Denmark and by Olaus, King of Sweden. Yet, the first was so much implicated in English affairs, that he could bestow little attentiononNorway; but,thelattercouldillbrookthelossofhisconquests
mutilatio
alii patibulo suffixi. Nemo inpunitus evasit,
10 " Torfaeus states :
Poena, sacra adver- nullo ordinum opumve discrimine psense santibus, exilium, vel manuum vel pedum exactae, nullus geometricse proportionis re-
:
aliis oculi eruti, alii
capite plexi,
Rerum
Historia Norvegica-
spectus. "—"
rum," tomus iii. , lib. ii. , cap. vii. , p. 72«
46o LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. [July 29.
there, and he resolved on a prolongation of the war. During the winter of
1017, one Huit had been sent from Drontheim, by Olaf, to collect tribute;
but, passing through Jamtia, he was set upon by some Swedish soldiers, who took possession of his effects, and then killed him, with eleven of his attendants. International and commercial relations were now restrained. Olaus of Sweden could not conceal his disrespect and odium towards Olaf of Norway, whomhe wasaccustomed ironically to style The Fat, because of his cor- pulency, and this epithet stuck to our saint, especially among the Swedes. How- ever, the people both of Norway and of Sweden were now tired of war, while there were good reasons for their respective kings to be at peace. Still, the King of Sweden had determined on raising a force, which should enable him to recover his former dominion ; but, Olaf resolved on sending ambassadors,
with propositions for a peace. Accordingly, they went and appeared before the Great Thing, or Popular Assembly, at Upsal, where they opened their mission on behalf of Olaf. A project the latter had in view was to marry Ingegerd, so that mutual and family interests might the better contribute towards amity and alliance. One Rognuald or Raguald, a chief of West Gothland, had sided with Olaf of Norway during the summer, and this defec- tion greatly moved the anger of the Swedish Olaf. Vainly, however, did the legation of the former proceed, in the direction of an agreement, until Rognuald went to hold a conference with Thorgnyre, his fosterer and relation, who was also supreme judge at Upsal. The result was an agreement, that
they should assist each other, in representing to the unwilling king, that both the chiefs and people wished for peace, while seditions were likely to ensue, if those desires were not respected, besides the result might be loss of his kingdom and life for the Swedish monarch. These events are referred to about the commencement of 1018. Olaf's messengers laboured to per- suade Olaiis-Scot-Konung, that it should be impossible for him to maintain his rule over Norway, and the legates besought that king, in the interests of peace, to renounce his pretentions to it. However, the Swedish King scorn- fully rejected such a proposal. He even brusquely interrupted a Jarl of the Visigoths, who pronounced himself in favour of a peace. Then rose the old lagman of Tiundeland, who was named Thorgny, and he resolutely spoke to
:
the proud king these words " We peasants desire, O King Olaf, that you
make peace with the . Norwegian King, and that you bestow on him your daughter Ingegerd. If you wish to recover the eastern provinces possessed
by your ancestors, we are ready to follow you ; but, if you will not hear our words of advice, we shall fall upon and kill you, for we are not disposed to tole- rate your ambition. So have our forefathers done, when they cast five proud kings like yourself into the water/' The peasants who stood around mena- cingly brandished their arms, at the same time. Then, the king declared to the Norwegian ambassadors, that himself and his ancestors always sought a consultation with the peasants in such cases. 11 To these representations and menaces, the King of Sweden yielded, and resigned the government of Nor- way to his rival. As Olaf also desired Ingigerd, daughter to the King of Sweden, for his wife, her father promised she should be united to him in
marriage.
It seems wonderful, how Olaf in the midst of so many dangers and mis-
chances preserved his Faith and religious practices so exactly, that each morning in his life, he spent much time in prayer and in assisting at the Holy SacrificeoftheMass. Notwithstandingthecaresofstate,hewasespecially
"""
See Nouvdle Liographie Generale, Olaf III. , col. 580, 581.
de M. le Dr. Hoefer, tome xxxviii. Art. " According to some accounts, he was
July 29. ] LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. 461
mindful of self-sanctification and his spiritual duties, and to trust of Divine Providence in his regard must be attributed many a happy escape from adverse fortune. Having made a tour of inspection over Raumarchia, he visited in like manner Hadaland. During the winter of 1017, Sigurd Syr died, leaving three sons by his wife Aasta, who are named respectively Halfdan,
12
Guttorm, and Harald. In the spring of the year 1018, Olaf visited Southern
and Western Hordia. He had a fleet and mariners prepared for the autumn, when his nuptials were to be solemnized ; and, he desired that magnificence and ceremony should be manifested on the occasion.
Notwithstanding the barbarity of that sentence executed on Hraereck, Olaf seems to have felt compassion for his privation, and he would not let the blind man leave his presence, while he was treated with more than ordinary attention. He had two serving men to wait on him, and Olaf allowed him to sit on a high seat next himself. Yet, mindful of his former position, and having a rancorous hatred towards the king, Hraereck became taciturn and cross,forhismindwasbentonrevenge. Whilehewasindulgedwithsuperior dietary and fine clothes, he still continued cranky and capricious ; he used to bring his attendant servant out in the daytime, and then leading him away from the people, he beat the lad so cruelly, that he was obliged to run away. ThenHraereckcomplainedtoKingOlaf,thattheservantwouldnot attendhim. Hisservantswereconstantlychanged,fornonecouldbearwith his unaccountable humours. At length, the king appointed one Swend, a kinsman of his own, to wait on Hraereck. Still his morose ways and solitary walks were continued; but, one day, while he and Swend were alone, Hraereck became merry and talkative, recalling his former unclouded days, when he had sight and was a freeman. He then said
and my other relations are so degenerate as to allow the shame brought on ourracetoremainunavenged. " ThenSwendanswered,theyhadtoogreat a power to cope with, but Hraereck said a blind man might even kill the Fat Olaf, and at length he persuaded his relative to lend assistance. A plot was now laid, that when the king should go in to assist at vespers, Swend was to draw a dagger from beneath his cloak, and then plunge it in the king's body. However, as Olaf came out of the room, he walked quicker than Swend expected ; when, on looking the king in the face, the servant became deadly pale and his hand trembled. Observing this terror, the king asked the cause. Whereupon, Swend threw down his cloak and dagger, while he fell at the
" All is in God's thenorderedhimtobeseizedandmanacled. Hedirected,likewise,that
Hraereck's seat should be moved from his own to another position. Olaf, however, gave Swend his life, and he left the country. The king also
appointed a different lodging for Hraereck to sleep in, from that occupied by himself and by his attendants, while he set two of his court-men, who had long been with him, and whom he could trust, to attend Hraereck afterwards, both by night and by day.
Nevertheless, the captive's desire for vengeance was not appeased ; for, while the king was at Tunsberg, a much frequented place, Hraereck had engaged a Finn to have a vessel ready in the port. Having murdered his two guards one night, they endeavoured to reach the ship and so escape. But, one of the king's servants happening to stumble over the dead bodies in the dark, Olaf was instantly informed of what had occurred, and orders
were despatched to apprehend the fugitives. Hraereck was soon captured,
king's
feet
saying :
hand,
and in
thine,
O
king. "
The
king
only three years old at this time ; but, this is quite incorrect, for he must have been considerably older.
I3 Such is the account given by the monk Theordric of Nidrosia, in his Life of St, Olavus, chapter xvi.
:
" It is hard that you
462 LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. [July 29.
and when no hope of escape was presented to his confederates, these run their ship ashore and hid themselves in the woods, while they killed one of the pursuers with an arrow. Having been brought back to the king, Hraereck was again pardoned, but he was guarded more strictly than before.
During that same year and in the same place, when the Sunday after Ascension Day came round, the king prepared to assist at High Mass. The Bishop in processional order led him to the throne, when Hraereck was allowed to remain at his side. Concealing his face in a cloak, Hraereck
placed his hand on the king's shoulder.
" It is a Festival we cele- Day
Olaf then
" Thou hast fine clothes to-day,
" I do not assent to all tell me about you
said he.
brate with reverence, and in memory of Christ's Ascension into Heaven. "
cousin,"
King
replied :
Hraereck
Christ ; much of what you relate is incredible to me, although doubtless, many wonderful things took place in former times. " At the commencement of Mass, proceeding from his place, and elevating his hands above his head, the king went upon his knees before the altar, and the cloak fell back on his shoulders. Then seizing his opportunity, Hraereck started up hastily, and having concealed a daggar under his cloak, he now drew it forth aiming at the king. However, the blow" was arrested by the cloak, which was cut, and the king sprang upon the floor to avoid the stroke. Another was dealt by Hraereck, but it was ill-directed, and the king escaped without a wound. When the assassin found this, he cried out in a
flying from me? " Immediately, by the king's order, he was secured and brought out from the church. Then many of the king's friends advised him to take Hraereck's life, so as to consult for his own security, since repeated pardons were dangerous and productive of no generous returns, nor was it likely that his mania for revenge should cease ; while, as they added, it must be hazardous, likewise, to give him liberty, when he might excite seditions and intestine wars. The king remarked, that no doubt, for lesser offences, many had been capitally punished ; however, as he had already captured five Upland kings, his relations, one morning, and without the loss of life, so was he now unwilling to stain that triumph, by shedding the culprit's blood. Another expedient was devised. An Icelander, named Thorarin, was then in Tunsberg when this incident occurred. He had just rigged out a merchant vessej, of which he was the owner, and in the summer, he intended to sail for Greenland. Accordingtoastipulationenteredintobetweenhimselfandthe king, Thorarin was to transport Hraereck to Greenland, or if that were not possible to Iceland. Driven back by gales, Thorarin could only reach the latter place, where the captive was left in charge of some faithful friends and subjects of Olaf. There, Hraereck was seized with illness, and so ended his days.
That very same year, Olaf prepared a large fleet and a splendid retinue, with which he sailed to Gothia, the bounds of his own kingdom. There,
according to an agreement with the King of Sweden, he expected to meet Ingigerd, who had been promised to him in marriage. To his great surprise,
although he waited there for a good part of the . summer, Ingigerd did not appear, nor was any message received from her father, to explain the cause
for this delay. At length, referring to Rognuald, Jarl of Gothia, he had no better information from that chief, and he was long left in a state of suspense ;
however, Ingigerd herself wrote to Rognuald, stating, the King of Sweden
Whereupon,
replied :
M The Jarl of the Visigoths is said to have placed her hand in that of the Norwegian King Olaf, who espoused her.
*S See Loccenius, " Historia Suecioe," lib. i.
l6 The words Scot and lot are originally
rage ;
" O fat man, are you
July 29. ] LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. 463
had perfidiously violated his engagement of the previous year, and had now destinedhisdaughterforanotherprince. Moreover,RognualdprayedKing Olaf to believe he wus no party to that base act, and he trusted the failure
of such engagement should not lessen in any way their own private friend- ship. Naturallyfilledwithresentmentforthisbadfaithandindiguityshown him, Olaf for some time hesitated, as to whether he should not immediately direct his fleet and crew against Sweden, or defer his purpose to avenge the injury done him for the following year. The latter course was that advised by his counsellors, and he adopted it. Returning to Sarpsburg, he there dis- banded that hosting, although keeping during the winter a numerous body of dependents in his service. This affair greatly tormented Rognuald, who learned, that Ingigerd had been married to Jarislaus, King of Russia, not- withstanding that solemn engagement entered upon before the popular assem- bly convened.
As Olaf, however, agreed to the alternative of marrying Astrida, the base-born daughter to Olaus the Tributary; after some difficulty, her father's consent was obtained, but only because he feared a rising of his chiefs and people were it refused. 13 About the Feast of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a. d. 1019, the nuptials were celebrated. 1 *
According to the Sagas, West Gothland was discontented with the rule of the Swedish king, while some of its chief men meditated transferring their allegiance to the Crown of Norway. One of these chiefs was Egmund of Skara, the law-giver of that district ; and, it would seem, that he had been deputed to visit King Olave-Scot-Konung, so as to lay the views of the West Gothlanders before him. Accordingly, mounting his horse, Egmund rode to Upsala, where the king resided, and he bent the knee before his monarch. "What news from Gothland? " asked the king. Whereupon, Egmund answei cc " There is little news among us Gothlanders but, it
:
appears to us worth relating, that the proud and stupid Atli, whom we took to be a great sportsman, went into the forest in winter, with his snow-shoes andhisbow. Whenhehadgotsomanyfursashishand-sledgecouldcarry, hereturnedhomefromthewoods. Ontheway,hesawasquirrelamong the branches of the trees. He shot an arrow, but he did not hit it. He was angry, and then leaving his sledge, he ran after the squirrel. However, the animal sprang where the wood was thickest, and sometimes he was at the roots, and immediately after, he was jumping from branch to branch. Whenever Atli shot at it, his arrows flew too high or too low. All day, Atli chased the squirrel, but it completely eluded his pursuit. A dark night and a heavy snow-storm then followed, and Atli got lost in the snow. The sledge, loaded with the furs he procured in the morning, was buried under the snow, so that Atli lost his sledge, his furs, his arrows and the squirrel. " "This is no news of importance," replied the king; "have you come all the way from Goth- land to tell me only this? " •' No, king," returned Egmund, " I have come to learnyourjudgmentinalawcase. " "Outwithitthen,"saidOlave. Then
" There were two noble-born men of birth, but these equal
Egmund replied :
were unequal in property and disposition. They quarrelled about some land, and did each other much damage ; but, most was done to him, who was least
powerful. At last, the quarrel was settled, and it was arranged, that a com- position should be paid, by the most powerful of the two. However, at the
first settlement, instead of paying a goose, the latter paid a gosling ; for an old sow, he gave a sucking pig ; for a mark of gold, he returned half a mark ;
"
Swedish or Teutonic words meaning tax. " Rome," while Scot-Konung means "the
Thus, Rome-Scot is interpreted
"
a tax for King's tax. "
;
464 LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. [July 29. while for half a mark, he only gave a pot of clay. Now, sire, what is your
"
judgment ? " Then Oliive at once said :
he who has thus treated the other shall have his property and goods confis- cated j half shall go to the king, and half to the aggrieved party. " Egmund then had witnesses for the judgment, and he departed hastily. He was expected to sup at the king's table that very evening, but he did not appear.
The king enquired regarding his absence, when he was told, that immediately
after pronouncing the afore-mentioned judgment, Egmund had mounted his
horse, and had galloped away. The king then began to muse on the story of Atli and his loss, as also on that of the two noblemen at variance. Soon he solved the riddle and rightly. He was himself no other than Atli. His sledge full of furs represented Sweden, while the escaped squirrel was Nor- way ; thus, in aiming at getting Norway, he was in danger of losing Sweden. Again, he and St. Olaf were the two noble-born men at variance ; while, after a reconciliation had been effected, he had shirked the fulfilment of his pro- mise, by giving his daughter Astrid to him instead of Ingegerd.
Both the kings of Norway and of Sweden had an interview at Kunghiell, where they agreed to be thoroughly reconciled, and to consolidate their interests, on conditions mutually advantageous. ^ When Olaf Haraldsonand Olaf-Scot-Konung had cemented their alliance, both agreed to introduce the Rome-Scot,16 whereby a small annual tribute was to be paid by them as a
respectful offering to the Apostolic See.
As a ruler, Olaf was exceedingly vigilant and active. In 1020, he set out
on a visitation towards the North, and through Vika, so that he might inspect thestateofthecountriesthere. Hefound,thatmanythingsrequiredreform and correction in northern Halogia, a district of the Drontheim province, as also in Naumudal, and through the interior regions, lie desired, likewise, toreachFinmark,theextremenorthernprovinceofNorway. Ontheopen- ing of spring, with five ships and their crews, together with three hundred select warriors, he set out and directed his course to Naumudal, where he met the people in their assemblies, and exacted from them an oath of fidelity to himself and to his laws. These he caused to be promulgated, and very severe penalties were attached for their enforcement. However, the king, if severe in their execution, was inflexibly just, having no respect for persons or classes. Nor did he leave that district, until all had vowed to become Christians. Having thus acted, when the various comitice had been held, and having settled affairs, civil and religious, during the greater part of the summer, he returned to Drontheim in autumn, and there spent that winter. Nevertheless, he found it a very difficult matter to keep in the Faith those pagans, who had so grudgingly professed themselves Christians ; for, no sooner had the king departed from among them, than he learned through his emissaries,thattheyhadagainrelaspedintoidolatry. Hesummonedthechief men to him, so that he might learn their reasons for apostasy. Among these was one Aulver, a wealthy bonder of Egge, more powerful and persuasive than others, who thought he should escape the king's anger; although twice had he apologized and retracted for his disobedience to the Christian laws. How- ever, one Thorald had informed the king about his relapses into idolatry,
and accordingly, about Easter, 1021, having learned that a pagan celebration was appointed for a certain day and place, Olaf had his ships and crews ready.
He sailed thither, to the head of Drontheim Fiord, and apprehended Aulver,
17 According to Torfbeus, the Icelandic See " Ilistoria Rerum Norvegicarum,"
Manuscripts place the events narrated in the toinus iii. , lib. ii. , cap. xxi. , pp. 103, 104.
text during the seventh year of Olafs reign.
'*
See ibid. , cap. xxii. , pp. 105 to 108.
Let the full payment be made, or
July 29. ] LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS, 465
in the very act of assisting and promoting the pagans' spring-feast. He was condemned to death. Others besides were made prisoners, and punishment was inflicted on them, proportionately to their deserts. The Assemblies were convened once more, and the former Christian profession of Faith was renewed; there churches were then built, and zealous pastors were set over them to spread more the Gospel. Olaf confiscated the property of Aulver ; however, when his widow—whose protection he assumed—had again married abetter husband, the possessions taken were restored to her. '?
That very same year, the Jails of the Orkney Islands had quarrels among themselves, which they desired Olaf should settle, as they always acknowledged
8
That. autumn, also, the king visited Noord- meerx9 andSundmerland,20 as also Romsdalen. 21 Here,leavinghis ships, he went to the Uplands. He visited Lesia and Dofra. In these places, he brought many to profess Christianity, and from these, he took hostages, to secure their fidelity. Churches were there built and priests were set over them. Many of the people, who would not desert their heathenism, were fined, while many fled from the king. In Gudbranzdal he encountered serious opposition. The dynast of that district, having heard from the pagan fugi- tives how forceful were the means adopted by Olaf, in his zeal for the spread of Christianity, Gudbrand resolved on raising a band to oppose the monarch. Seven hundred pagans were collected, and his son became their leader. How- ever, relying on Divine assistance, Olaf engaged this army of rustics, and vanquished them. Their leader was taken prisoner, and treated kindly by Olaf for four days, during which time he seems to have been imbued with a desire to become a Christian. But, he had not been baptized, before he agreed to see his father, and to induce also his compliance with the king's wishes. Little desire had Gudbrand to yield* and he reproached his son for changing his opinions. However, as he was about to lead against Olaf a new force, Gudbrand had a nocturnal vision, when a man with serene yet awe- " You know how unfortunate has
:
proved the expedition of your son against King Olaf; but, should you oppose
him,yourlossoflifeandbloodshallbestillgreater; youshallfoilwithyour
whole array, to be torn by the wolves and crows. " The account of this
vision Gudbrand communicated to Thordus Instrumagius, who was also a chief
22
in Dalor; and, the latter declared, he had a similar vision. Wherefore,
abandoning the idea of resisting Olaf further, Gudbrand sent him a message,
that in a public Assembly the proposition of accepting a new doctrine should be pacifically entertained. Then both Gudbrand and Thord, at the desire ofOlaf,hadoneconvened,whereagreatnumberofpeopleassembled. For three days, this conference lasted. On the first day, King Olaf and Bishop Sigurd, who accompanied him, entered upon a long discussion, to prove the existenceofonetrueGod,andaboutthekindofworshipduetoHim. The heathens took objection to their arguments, by stating, that he could not be aGod,whowasnotseen,orwhocouldnotbeshown,byanyperson; while it was otherwise with their great idol Thor, whose divinity was recognisable, and whose majestic aspect was visible to all eyes. A challenge was now offered to the Christian advocates, that as rain then prevailed, if their God had any power, he might cause it. to be fine next day, while they should bring their Thor to the Assembly, to effect the same purpose. Whereupon, King Olaf and Bishop Sigurd, in a great state of anxiety, returned to their lodgings;
19 Also called North More.
vassalage to the Norway Kings. '
inspiring countenance appeared and said
10
21 Also called Raunsdal.
valley
23 Also written Hedemark.
Also called South More.
22 A
In the same tract of countiy, towards the south.
IG
466 LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. [July 29.
but, they hoped, that the Almighty would work out His Divine will, . and in Hisownway. ThesonofGudbrandaccompaniedthem. TheKingand
Bishop Sigurd spent that whole night in prayer, and after early dawn, when Mass had been celebrated, both set out for the Assembly. The morning shoneoutbeautifully,butthistrialdidnotsatisfyall; for,thepeopledesiredto see, if it should happen so the day after. The King and the Bishop prayed as before, during that night, and then they went again to the Assembly. That day was also very fine. The heathens now with great ceremony brought out their idol Thor, which was of great size, and profusely adorned with gold and silver enrichments. The idolaters all cried out, that he was the true and onlypowerfulGod. ThenOlaflaughed,andimmediatelytheiridolfellinto
: smallpieces. Whereupon,Gudbrandexclaimed "Wehavereceivedagreat
shock, through the destruction of our God ; yet, as he cannot help himself, it
that God, whom adore. " WT
you hereupon,
is but that we now just,
worship
Gudbrand with his son was baptized, by Bishop Sigurd ; priests were left in
Dalor ; and friendship having been established between himself and King
Olaf, Gudbrand built a church in his own district.
2
Afterwards, the king went into Heidmarcb, 3 where all the inhabitants
were brought to a knowledge of Christ; pastors were stationed in their parishes ; churches were built ; and, in fine, Christian morality was there firmly established, in all parts. However, the Christians were cautioned not to penetrate into the interior of the country, lest their presence might irritate the people, where their chiefs had been subdued and coerced ; for, there fac- tions and treacherous conduct might still prevail, while plots and treason were to be feared. Thotnia and Hadaland Olaf also visited, and there, likewise, the inhabitants adopted the Christian Faith and rites. In Hringarich, the king had a great pleasure in finding the people well disposed to favour Christianity. When the people of Raumarich, however, were informed about the king's progress, they resolved to oppose him, and they assembled a very superior force at the River Nicia. At first, they made a fierce onset ; but, they were speedily put to flight. At length, they embraced Christianity. Thence pro- ceeding eastwards to Soleyas, Olaf influenced all the inhabitants of that pro-
2 vince to profess the Faith of Christ. *
Different writers have assigned various dates for the death of Olave Scot
Kilning, viz. , from a. d. toi8 2 5tOA. D. 1027 26
; but, it is generally supposed to
2 28
have happened, in io2 2, 7 as the Bollandists seem to confirm. St. Olaf spent
much of the year 1022 in Vika, and in the eastern parts, making the tour of inspection, according to his usual custom. Having returned to Sarpsburg
"
74 The Bollnndists slate:
Sanctus annum Chrisli 1021, perpetuo pro- gressu per mediterraneas sibique succeden-
tes ordine —situquc provincias ab Acjuilone in
toricus, sect, v. , vi. , pp. 96 to 100.
e j This is stated to have been the year for
his decease, by Joannes Magnus, in "His- toria Gothonun," lib. xvii. , cap. xxiii. He is followed by Gi^lo and Suaning in their chronicles. The year 1024 is assigned by Messenius, in his Annotations to Yasto- \ius.
See lib. ii. , p. 31. However, he seems not consistent in his subsequent account of our St. Olaf, when lie writes soon afterwards : "Rex Norvegice post mortem Schotta-
Mortuus konungh din supcrvixit. est veto
S. Olavus anno Domini mxxviii. "
-"
In this year, Torfeus places his death, relying on the Icelandic accounts, not alone in his " Historia Rcrum Norvegicarum," tomus iii. , HI), ii. , cap, xxiii. , pp. 108 to 112; but also, in his Notes to Yastovius, " Vilis
"
Series Dynastarum et Regum Daniae a Skioldo Odini Filio ad Gormum Grandsevum," lib. iii. , cap. x. , the same chronology has
Austrum. " "Acta Sanctorum,"
tenuis Julii xxix. De S. Olavo, Regc et Martyre, Ts'idrosice in Norvegia. Commentarius His-
6
places the death of Olave at the eighth year, alter giving his daughter Astrid in marriage.
Eric of Uptal prefers this date, for he
been observed,
-8 "
Ita clausit
vii. ,
Aquilonia," p. VJ. Moreover, in his
l! osch thus writes: Et supei vixisse quidem Olavo Succo Norvcgicum, docet
July 29. ] LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. 467
and Tonsbeig, in the spring of 1023, Olaf then sailed to the Island of Car-
9 men, towards the west, in the district of Stavangeiieen. ?
As serving to illustrate the wild actions of that age and country, while the king was guest' of the Chief Aulfnes, one of his villagers named Thorercame to complain, about an injury inflicted on him by a certain noble named Asbiorn. At this time, the king was seated at table, and Thorer gave a dubious account of the transaction, and, as in most cases, when a complaint is made, he mingled false with true statements ; however, Asbiorn, who had entered without the man's knowledge, having heard that public accusation, flew towards the accuser, who was near the king, and drawing his sword, with a stroke cut off Thorer's head. The king was justly indignant, at the perpe- tration of such an act. Immediately, he ordered the murderer to be appre- hended, and to be executed. It happened to be the Thursday after Easter, and the culprit being consigned to the keeping of one Thorarin, a near cousin named Skialg endeavoured to obtain pardon from the king, but in vain. The sentence passed was that Asbiorn should be crucified on that very night. But Skialg, having influenced Thorarin to evade this order, told the king how nocturnal executions were most reprehensible, so that the criminal had a
respiteuntilmorning. Thedayfollowing,Olafbeganhiscoursebyassist- ing at Mass, before he engaged at any other order of business ; and seeing Thorarin, he asked had the sun risen to show the punishment which was to be inflicted on their friend Asbiorn. Then Thorarin replied, that it was Friday, the day when the Omnipotent King suffered the greatest injuries, and with the meekest submission, so that it should be better to imitate him, than those wicked men, who had condemned Him to so cruel a death. This say- ing moved the king, who replied: ''Your request shall be granted, and to-day,Asbiornshallnotdie; however,guardhimcarefully,andattheperil of your own life, should he happen to escape. " Then the king entered the church. On the Saturday following, having assisted at Matins, the king was engaged longer than usual, in discussing matters at the provincial assembly, and then going to assist at Mass, he afterwards went to dinner. Then Thora- rin sought the bell-ringer, and persuaded him to ring the bronze bell for announcement of the coming Sunday's Festival,3° before the ordinary hour, and when the king rose from table. At that moment, Olaf had ordered his servants, to see that Asbiorn should be led to*execution ; but, suddenly, the bell pealed, and then Thorarin, taking advantage of the king's exact religious observances, prayed the execution to be deferred during that festive time. The king once more assented, and went to the church. When Sunday came, as Asbiorn now seemed to repent of his crime, so was he allowed by the Bishop to assist at the sacred ceremonies. Meantime, expecting what was to happen, Thorarin besought the king to release him from the disagreeable duty of being Asbiorn's keeper ; while Skialg instigated his father Erling, who was uncle to Asbiorn, that he should assemble his hosting, which
eliam Hist. Dan. , lib. 10 in Canuto Magno Saxo Grammaticus. Adamus contra Ere- mensis Hist. Eccl. , lib. 2, cap. 54, Norve- gico Suecum superstitem facit, saltern quin- quennio ; cum hunc obiisse asserat eodem tempore, quo Canutus Magnus finemvivendi fecit : et hunc sequitur Vastovius in Vite Aquilonia; imoetTheodricusNidrosiensis, ut patet turn ex cap. 16, turn maxime —ex cap. 18. Quid ergo hie ccrii statuas?
Hialtlanor—um, Fsereyensium, et Islando-
vegicarum," tomus ii. ,
"
Torfa. *us, Ilistoria Rerum Nor-
p. 78-
6
"
Histoiia Rerum Nor-
lib. i. ,
See Les Petits Bollandists' Vies des
950. See Torfaeus,
Appendix ii. ,
rum,"&c.
vegicarum," tomus iii. , lib. ii. , cap. ii. , pp. 63, 64.
45 8 LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. [July 29.
several places, he demolished the idolatrous temples by force, and much to the dislike of the more uncultivated mountaineers.
Whenever Olaf had an interval of repose, he endeavoured to gtfvern his
kingdom according to justice, but tempered with severity. Especially, he had great zeal to promote the glory of God, and the welfare of religion. It would seem, however, that fear of his power, rather than love for God, obliged numbers of his subjects to become obedient to their new sovereign's decrees. Having settled his kingdom—as was thought in peace—Olaf was anxious to eradicate all popular superstitions and pagan usages, so that his people might the sooner embrace the truths of the Gospel. However, this course of pro- ceeding raised against him many enemies, as the pagans were much addicted to their old superstitions and laws ; while these were abandoned, by most of them, with much reluctance. 8
The Sagas inform us, that when King Olaf was with his mother on a visit, she brought out her children, and showed them to him. The king took his brother Guttorm on one knee, and his brother Halfdan on the other. In a sportive mood with the children, the king made a wry face, and both the boys were frightened. Thereupon, Aasta brought her youngest son Harald
—then only three years old—and
also made a
without regarding it, the infant boy looked him steadily in the face. The king
face at him
took him by the hair, and plucked it; then that child seized the king's whiskers,
:
in retaliation, and gave them a tug. Whereupon Olaf cried out " Ah my
friend, hereafter thou shalt be revengeful. " When the king was walking about the farm next day with his mother, they came to a place where her sons Gu—t- torm and Halfdan we—re amusing themselves. At play, these were engaged as children often are with building imaginary houses and barns, which they were filling with supposed cattle and sheep. Beside them was a pool of water, where Harald was sailing chips of wood close to the edge. The king then asked what these were, and Harald answered, that they were his ships of
war. The king then laughed and said
:
thou wilt command ships. "
:
the
king
wry
;
but,
" The time may come, friend, when Then calling to him Guttorm and Halfdan, he from the former " What would thou like best to have ? " He
enquired
replied: "Corn-land. " "And how great wouldst thou like that corn-land
:
tobe? "askedthe ThensaidGuttorm "Iwouldhavethewhole
king.
of land that runs into the lake sown with corn every summer. " On that
tongue of land there were ten farms. The king replied : "There should b'e
:
a great deal of corn in it. " Then turning to Halfdan, Olaf asked " And
" :
Halfdan said
:
what wouldst thou best like to have ? " He replied
king enquired, how many he should wish to have.
they went to the lake to be watered, I would like to have so many, that they should stand as tight as they could around the lake. " Then Olaf replied : " That ought make a great house-keeping, and therein you take after your
father. " The
now turned to Harald, and said
" What wouldst thou
king
best like to have? " He replied :" House servants. " "And how many
O abletoeatupmybrother'scowsatasinglemeal,"saidHarald. Theking
"
wouldst thou like to have ? " asked the king.
laughed, and turning to Aasta, cried out :
so many as should be Here, mother, thou art bringing
up a king. "9
During the autumn of 1017, when peace had been ratified between him-
self and the King of Sweden, Olaf set out from Sarpsburg and went to
8 See Matthew of Paris, " Chronica Ma- 9 See Rev. S. Baring-Gould's "Lives of
jora," vol. i. , p. 507. Edited by Henry the Saints," vol. vii. , July 29, pp. 655,
Richards Luard, M. A.
656.
"
!
Cows. " Thenthe
:
" When
!
spit
July 29. ] LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. 459
Vingulmarch, so that he might have a royal progress among his people. He became a missionary as well as a monarch ; for, wherever he deemed it necessary to place a priest, he took care to found a station. The people refused in many instances to hear his preachers, and it would seem even, that the latter were persecuted by the heathens, in some shape or form. It maybe,thatmurdersoroutrageshadbeenperpetrated; for,thosepeoplewere exceedingly ferocious and barbarous, while the practices of those limes in the northern countries were often cruel and most revolting. Perhaps, also, the Christian temples had been ruined, or profaned, or the most sacred mysteries of religion had been abused ; otherwise, it should be very difficult to account for the very severe punishments, stated to have been inflicted on the idolaters,
so and humane a 10 A zealot in his endeavours to establish by just king.
Christianity, Olaf seems often to have wanted prudence, in the prosecution of his design ; while his arbitrary action and violent proceedings to overturn
idolatry caused much opposition, from a great proportion of his subjects. With three hundred soldiers. Olaf entered Raumarich, where he found that
Christianity had made little progress, and the king over that province seems to have greatly incurred his displeasure. The latter set out for Hraereck,
King of Heidmarch, and reputed to be one of the wisest among the Uplanders. His counsel was next sought, in that juncture of Hraereck's affairs. They next sent for Gudriod, King of Dalor, and the King of —Hada- land. The—se all assembled in the town of Heidmarch Hringisakro now Rindsaker where King Hring, the brother of Hraereck, dwelt and there
;
they conspired against King Olaf, whom they were resolved to depose and put to death. However, one Ketill Kalf had been in their confidence, and soon ordering his galley, in a short time he saw Olaf, and exposed all their designs. Without delay, the king convoked the chief counsellors of his kingdom,orderingthemtohavethreehundredsoldiersreadyforservice. His plans had been formed in great secrecy, and they were promptly executed. Having procured horses for his soldiers, and a fleet of vessels on the lake, all were to be in readiness for his approach, at a time appointed. Afterwards, going to the church, to assist devoutly at Mass, according to his usual cus- tom, and having arranged all things for his expedition, after dinner he went on board KethTs ship, with several companions, while the rest of his attend- ants embarked on other vessels. When the shades of evening set in, they began to row across the placid lake ; and, by daylight, they all reached Rindsaker,tothenumberoffourhundred. Theconspiratorswerearrested and surprised in a house, where they had assembled ; while, being unarmed and helpless, they were brought prisoners before King Olaf. As being the most astute and dangerous among them, he ordered Hraereck to be deprived of both eyes, while he cut off Gudriod's tongue ; Hring and the other two he banished from Norway, exacting from them an oath, that they would not return. Then, he confiscated all their districts, which lands he reserved for his own use. With the henchmen of those chiefs he dealt, according as they had been more or less deeply implicated or dangerous as conspirators.
The action of Olaf and his successes caused great hostility and hatred towards him, by Canute, King of Denmark and by Olaus, King of Sweden. Yet, the first was so much implicated in English affairs, that he could bestow little attentiononNorway; but,thelattercouldillbrookthelossofhisconquests
mutilatio
alii patibulo suffixi. Nemo inpunitus evasit,
10 " Torfaeus states :
Poena, sacra adver- nullo ordinum opumve discrimine psense santibus, exilium, vel manuum vel pedum exactae, nullus geometricse proportionis re-
:
aliis oculi eruti, alii
capite plexi,
Rerum
Historia Norvegica-
spectus. "—"
rum," tomus iii. , lib. ii. , cap. vii. , p. 72«
46o LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. [July 29.
there, and he resolved on a prolongation of the war. During the winter of
1017, one Huit had been sent from Drontheim, by Olaf, to collect tribute;
but, passing through Jamtia, he was set upon by some Swedish soldiers, who took possession of his effects, and then killed him, with eleven of his attendants. International and commercial relations were now restrained. Olaus of Sweden could not conceal his disrespect and odium towards Olaf of Norway, whomhe wasaccustomed ironically to style The Fat, because of his cor- pulency, and this epithet stuck to our saint, especially among the Swedes. How- ever, the people both of Norway and of Sweden were now tired of war, while there were good reasons for their respective kings to be at peace. Still, the King of Sweden had determined on raising a force, which should enable him to recover his former dominion ; but, Olaf resolved on sending ambassadors,
with propositions for a peace. Accordingly, they went and appeared before the Great Thing, or Popular Assembly, at Upsal, where they opened their mission on behalf of Olaf. A project the latter had in view was to marry Ingegerd, so that mutual and family interests might the better contribute towards amity and alliance. One Rognuald or Raguald, a chief of West Gothland, had sided with Olaf of Norway during the summer, and this defec- tion greatly moved the anger of the Swedish Olaf. Vainly, however, did the legation of the former proceed, in the direction of an agreement, until Rognuald went to hold a conference with Thorgnyre, his fosterer and relation, who was also supreme judge at Upsal. The result was an agreement, that
they should assist each other, in representing to the unwilling king, that both the chiefs and people wished for peace, while seditions were likely to ensue, if those desires were not respected, besides the result might be loss of his kingdom and life for the Swedish monarch. These events are referred to about the commencement of 1018. Olaf's messengers laboured to per- suade Olaiis-Scot-Konung, that it should be impossible for him to maintain his rule over Norway, and the legates besought that king, in the interests of peace, to renounce his pretentions to it. However, the Swedish King scorn- fully rejected such a proposal. He even brusquely interrupted a Jarl of the Visigoths, who pronounced himself in favour of a peace. Then rose the old lagman of Tiundeland, who was named Thorgny, and he resolutely spoke to
:
the proud king these words " We peasants desire, O King Olaf, that you
make peace with the . Norwegian King, and that you bestow on him your daughter Ingegerd. If you wish to recover the eastern provinces possessed
by your ancestors, we are ready to follow you ; but, if you will not hear our words of advice, we shall fall upon and kill you, for we are not disposed to tole- rate your ambition. So have our forefathers done, when they cast five proud kings like yourself into the water/' The peasants who stood around mena- cingly brandished their arms, at the same time. Then, the king declared to the Norwegian ambassadors, that himself and his ancestors always sought a consultation with the peasants in such cases. 11 To these representations and menaces, the King of Sweden yielded, and resigned the government of Nor- way to his rival. As Olaf also desired Ingigerd, daughter to the King of Sweden, for his wife, her father promised she should be united to him in
marriage.
It seems wonderful, how Olaf in the midst of so many dangers and mis-
chances preserved his Faith and religious practices so exactly, that each morning in his life, he spent much time in prayer and in assisting at the Holy SacrificeoftheMass. Notwithstandingthecaresofstate,hewasespecially
"""
See Nouvdle Liographie Generale, Olaf III. , col. 580, 581.
de M. le Dr. Hoefer, tome xxxviii. Art. " According to some accounts, he was
July 29. ] LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. 461
mindful of self-sanctification and his spiritual duties, and to trust of Divine Providence in his regard must be attributed many a happy escape from adverse fortune. Having made a tour of inspection over Raumarchia, he visited in like manner Hadaland. During the winter of 1017, Sigurd Syr died, leaving three sons by his wife Aasta, who are named respectively Halfdan,
12
Guttorm, and Harald. In the spring of the year 1018, Olaf visited Southern
and Western Hordia. He had a fleet and mariners prepared for the autumn, when his nuptials were to be solemnized ; and, he desired that magnificence and ceremony should be manifested on the occasion.
Notwithstanding the barbarity of that sentence executed on Hraereck, Olaf seems to have felt compassion for his privation, and he would not let the blind man leave his presence, while he was treated with more than ordinary attention. He had two serving men to wait on him, and Olaf allowed him to sit on a high seat next himself. Yet, mindful of his former position, and having a rancorous hatred towards the king, Hraereck became taciturn and cross,forhismindwasbentonrevenge. Whilehewasindulgedwithsuperior dietary and fine clothes, he still continued cranky and capricious ; he used to bring his attendant servant out in the daytime, and then leading him away from the people, he beat the lad so cruelly, that he was obliged to run away. ThenHraereckcomplainedtoKingOlaf,thattheservantwouldnot attendhim. Hisservantswereconstantlychanged,fornonecouldbearwith his unaccountable humours. At length, the king appointed one Swend, a kinsman of his own, to wait on Hraereck. Still his morose ways and solitary walks were continued; but, one day, while he and Swend were alone, Hraereck became merry and talkative, recalling his former unclouded days, when he had sight and was a freeman. He then said
and my other relations are so degenerate as to allow the shame brought on ourracetoremainunavenged. " ThenSwendanswered,theyhadtoogreat a power to cope with, but Hraereck said a blind man might even kill the Fat Olaf, and at length he persuaded his relative to lend assistance. A plot was now laid, that when the king should go in to assist at vespers, Swend was to draw a dagger from beneath his cloak, and then plunge it in the king's body. However, as Olaf came out of the room, he walked quicker than Swend expected ; when, on looking the king in the face, the servant became deadly pale and his hand trembled. Observing this terror, the king asked the cause. Whereupon, Swend threw down his cloak and dagger, while he fell at the
" All is in God's thenorderedhimtobeseizedandmanacled. Hedirected,likewise,that
Hraereck's seat should be moved from his own to another position. Olaf, however, gave Swend his life, and he left the country. The king also
appointed a different lodging for Hraereck to sleep in, from that occupied by himself and by his attendants, while he set two of his court-men, who had long been with him, and whom he could trust, to attend Hraereck afterwards, both by night and by day.
Nevertheless, the captive's desire for vengeance was not appeased ; for, while the king was at Tunsberg, a much frequented place, Hraereck had engaged a Finn to have a vessel ready in the port. Having murdered his two guards one night, they endeavoured to reach the ship and so escape. But, one of the king's servants happening to stumble over the dead bodies in the dark, Olaf was instantly informed of what had occurred, and orders
were despatched to apprehend the fugitives. Hraereck was soon captured,
king's
feet
saying :
hand,
and in
thine,
O
king. "
The
king
only three years old at this time ; but, this is quite incorrect, for he must have been considerably older.
I3 Such is the account given by the monk Theordric of Nidrosia, in his Life of St, Olavus, chapter xvi.
:
" It is hard that you
462 LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. [July 29.
and when no hope of escape was presented to his confederates, these run their ship ashore and hid themselves in the woods, while they killed one of the pursuers with an arrow. Having been brought back to the king, Hraereck was again pardoned, but he was guarded more strictly than before.
During that same year and in the same place, when the Sunday after Ascension Day came round, the king prepared to assist at High Mass. The Bishop in processional order led him to the throne, when Hraereck was allowed to remain at his side. Concealing his face in a cloak, Hraereck
placed his hand on the king's shoulder.
" It is a Festival we cele- Day
Olaf then
" Thou hast fine clothes to-day,
" I do not assent to all tell me about you
said he.
brate with reverence, and in memory of Christ's Ascension into Heaven. "
cousin,"
King
replied :
Hraereck
Christ ; much of what you relate is incredible to me, although doubtless, many wonderful things took place in former times. " At the commencement of Mass, proceeding from his place, and elevating his hands above his head, the king went upon his knees before the altar, and the cloak fell back on his shoulders. Then seizing his opportunity, Hraereck started up hastily, and having concealed a daggar under his cloak, he now drew it forth aiming at the king. However, the blow" was arrested by the cloak, which was cut, and the king sprang upon the floor to avoid the stroke. Another was dealt by Hraereck, but it was ill-directed, and the king escaped without a wound. When the assassin found this, he cried out in a
flying from me? " Immediately, by the king's order, he was secured and brought out from the church. Then many of the king's friends advised him to take Hraereck's life, so as to consult for his own security, since repeated pardons were dangerous and productive of no generous returns, nor was it likely that his mania for revenge should cease ; while, as they added, it must be hazardous, likewise, to give him liberty, when he might excite seditions and intestine wars. The king remarked, that no doubt, for lesser offences, many had been capitally punished ; however, as he had already captured five Upland kings, his relations, one morning, and without the loss of life, so was he now unwilling to stain that triumph, by shedding the culprit's blood. Another expedient was devised. An Icelander, named Thorarin, was then in Tunsberg when this incident occurred. He had just rigged out a merchant vessej, of which he was the owner, and in the summer, he intended to sail for Greenland. Accordingtoastipulationenteredintobetweenhimselfandthe king, Thorarin was to transport Hraereck to Greenland, or if that were not possible to Iceland. Driven back by gales, Thorarin could only reach the latter place, where the captive was left in charge of some faithful friends and subjects of Olaf. There, Hraereck was seized with illness, and so ended his days.
That very same year, Olaf prepared a large fleet and a splendid retinue, with which he sailed to Gothia, the bounds of his own kingdom. There,
according to an agreement with the King of Sweden, he expected to meet Ingigerd, who had been promised to him in marriage. To his great surprise,
although he waited there for a good part of the . summer, Ingigerd did not appear, nor was any message received from her father, to explain the cause
for this delay. At length, referring to Rognuald, Jarl of Gothia, he had no better information from that chief, and he was long left in a state of suspense ;
however, Ingigerd herself wrote to Rognuald, stating, the King of Sweden
Whereupon,
replied :
M The Jarl of the Visigoths is said to have placed her hand in that of the Norwegian King Olaf, who espoused her.
*S See Loccenius, " Historia Suecioe," lib. i.
l6 The words Scot and lot are originally
rage ;
" O fat man, are you
July 29. ] LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. 463
had perfidiously violated his engagement of the previous year, and had now destinedhisdaughterforanotherprince. Moreover,RognualdprayedKing Olaf to believe he wus no party to that base act, and he trusted the failure
of such engagement should not lessen in any way their own private friend- ship. Naturallyfilledwithresentmentforthisbadfaithandindiguityshown him, Olaf for some time hesitated, as to whether he should not immediately direct his fleet and crew against Sweden, or defer his purpose to avenge the injury done him for the following year. The latter course was that advised by his counsellors, and he adopted it. Returning to Sarpsburg, he there dis- banded that hosting, although keeping during the winter a numerous body of dependents in his service. This affair greatly tormented Rognuald, who learned, that Ingigerd had been married to Jarislaus, King of Russia, not- withstanding that solemn engagement entered upon before the popular assem- bly convened.
As Olaf, however, agreed to the alternative of marrying Astrida, the base-born daughter to Olaus the Tributary; after some difficulty, her father's consent was obtained, but only because he feared a rising of his chiefs and people were it refused. 13 About the Feast of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a. d. 1019, the nuptials were celebrated. 1 *
According to the Sagas, West Gothland was discontented with the rule of the Swedish king, while some of its chief men meditated transferring their allegiance to the Crown of Norway. One of these chiefs was Egmund of Skara, the law-giver of that district ; and, it would seem, that he had been deputed to visit King Olave-Scot-Konung, so as to lay the views of the West Gothlanders before him. Accordingly, mounting his horse, Egmund rode to Upsala, where the king resided, and he bent the knee before his monarch. "What news from Gothland? " asked the king. Whereupon, Egmund answei cc " There is little news among us Gothlanders but, it
:
appears to us worth relating, that the proud and stupid Atli, whom we took to be a great sportsman, went into the forest in winter, with his snow-shoes andhisbow. Whenhehadgotsomanyfursashishand-sledgecouldcarry, hereturnedhomefromthewoods. Ontheway,hesawasquirrelamong the branches of the trees. He shot an arrow, but he did not hit it. He was angry, and then leaving his sledge, he ran after the squirrel. However, the animal sprang where the wood was thickest, and sometimes he was at the roots, and immediately after, he was jumping from branch to branch. Whenever Atli shot at it, his arrows flew too high or too low. All day, Atli chased the squirrel, but it completely eluded his pursuit. A dark night and a heavy snow-storm then followed, and Atli got lost in the snow. The sledge, loaded with the furs he procured in the morning, was buried under the snow, so that Atli lost his sledge, his furs, his arrows and the squirrel. " "This is no news of importance," replied the king; "have you come all the way from Goth- land to tell me only this? " •' No, king," returned Egmund, " I have come to learnyourjudgmentinalawcase. " "Outwithitthen,"saidOlave. Then
" There were two noble-born men of birth, but these equal
Egmund replied :
were unequal in property and disposition. They quarrelled about some land, and did each other much damage ; but, most was done to him, who was least
powerful. At last, the quarrel was settled, and it was arranged, that a com- position should be paid, by the most powerful of the two. However, at the
first settlement, instead of paying a goose, the latter paid a gosling ; for an old sow, he gave a sucking pig ; for a mark of gold, he returned half a mark ;
"
Swedish or Teutonic words meaning tax. " Rome," while Scot-Konung means "the
Thus, Rome-Scot is interpreted
"
a tax for King's tax. "
;
464 LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. [July 29. while for half a mark, he only gave a pot of clay. Now, sire, what is your
"
judgment ? " Then Oliive at once said :
he who has thus treated the other shall have his property and goods confis- cated j half shall go to the king, and half to the aggrieved party. " Egmund then had witnesses for the judgment, and he departed hastily. He was expected to sup at the king's table that very evening, but he did not appear.
The king enquired regarding his absence, when he was told, that immediately
after pronouncing the afore-mentioned judgment, Egmund had mounted his
horse, and had galloped away. The king then began to muse on the story of Atli and his loss, as also on that of the two noblemen at variance. Soon he solved the riddle and rightly. He was himself no other than Atli. His sledge full of furs represented Sweden, while the escaped squirrel was Nor- way ; thus, in aiming at getting Norway, he was in danger of losing Sweden. Again, he and St. Olaf were the two noble-born men at variance ; while, after a reconciliation had been effected, he had shirked the fulfilment of his pro- mise, by giving his daughter Astrid to him instead of Ingegerd.
Both the kings of Norway and of Sweden had an interview at Kunghiell, where they agreed to be thoroughly reconciled, and to consolidate their interests, on conditions mutually advantageous. ^ When Olaf Haraldsonand Olaf-Scot-Konung had cemented their alliance, both agreed to introduce the Rome-Scot,16 whereby a small annual tribute was to be paid by them as a
respectful offering to the Apostolic See.
As a ruler, Olaf was exceedingly vigilant and active. In 1020, he set out
on a visitation towards the North, and through Vika, so that he might inspect thestateofthecountriesthere. Hefound,thatmanythingsrequiredreform and correction in northern Halogia, a district of the Drontheim province, as also in Naumudal, and through the interior regions, lie desired, likewise, toreachFinmark,theextremenorthernprovinceofNorway. Ontheopen- ing of spring, with five ships and their crews, together with three hundred select warriors, he set out and directed his course to Naumudal, where he met the people in their assemblies, and exacted from them an oath of fidelity to himself and to his laws. These he caused to be promulgated, and very severe penalties were attached for their enforcement. However, the king, if severe in their execution, was inflexibly just, having no respect for persons or classes. Nor did he leave that district, until all had vowed to become Christians. Having thus acted, when the various comitice had been held, and having settled affairs, civil and religious, during the greater part of the summer, he returned to Drontheim in autumn, and there spent that winter. Nevertheless, he found it a very difficult matter to keep in the Faith those pagans, who had so grudgingly professed themselves Christians ; for, no sooner had the king departed from among them, than he learned through his emissaries,thattheyhadagainrelaspedintoidolatry. Hesummonedthechief men to him, so that he might learn their reasons for apostasy. Among these was one Aulver, a wealthy bonder of Egge, more powerful and persuasive than others, who thought he should escape the king's anger; although twice had he apologized and retracted for his disobedience to the Christian laws. How- ever, one Thorald had informed the king about his relapses into idolatry,
and accordingly, about Easter, 1021, having learned that a pagan celebration was appointed for a certain day and place, Olaf had his ships and crews ready.
He sailed thither, to the head of Drontheim Fiord, and apprehended Aulver,
17 According to Torfbeus, the Icelandic See " Ilistoria Rerum Norvegicarum,"
Manuscripts place the events narrated in the toinus iii. , lib. ii. , cap. xxi. , pp. 103, 104.
text during the seventh year of Olafs reign.
'*
See ibid. , cap. xxii. , pp. 105 to 108.
Let the full payment be made, or
July 29. ] LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS, 465
in the very act of assisting and promoting the pagans' spring-feast. He was condemned to death. Others besides were made prisoners, and punishment was inflicted on them, proportionately to their deserts. The Assemblies were convened once more, and the former Christian profession of Faith was renewed; there churches were then built, and zealous pastors were set over them to spread more the Gospel. Olaf confiscated the property of Aulver ; however, when his widow—whose protection he assumed—had again married abetter husband, the possessions taken were restored to her. '?
That very same year, the Jails of the Orkney Islands had quarrels among themselves, which they desired Olaf should settle, as they always acknowledged
8
That. autumn, also, the king visited Noord- meerx9 andSundmerland,20 as also Romsdalen. 21 Here,leavinghis ships, he went to the Uplands. He visited Lesia and Dofra. In these places, he brought many to profess Christianity, and from these, he took hostages, to secure their fidelity. Churches were there built and priests were set over them. Many of the people, who would not desert their heathenism, were fined, while many fled from the king. In Gudbranzdal he encountered serious opposition. The dynast of that district, having heard from the pagan fugi- tives how forceful were the means adopted by Olaf, in his zeal for the spread of Christianity, Gudbrand resolved on raising a band to oppose the monarch. Seven hundred pagans were collected, and his son became their leader. How- ever, relying on Divine assistance, Olaf engaged this army of rustics, and vanquished them. Their leader was taken prisoner, and treated kindly by Olaf for four days, during which time he seems to have been imbued with a desire to become a Christian. But, he had not been baptized, before he agreed to see his father, and to induce also his compliance with the king's wishes. Little desire had Gudbrand to yield* and he reproached his son for changing his opinions. However, as he was about to lead against Olaf a new force, Gudbrand had a nocturnal vision, when a man with serene yet awe- " You know how unfortunate has
:
proved the expedition of your son against King Olaf; but, should you oppose
him,yourlossoflifeandbloodshallbestillgreater; youshallfoilwithyour
whole array, to be torn by the wolves and crows. " The account of this
vision Gudbrand communicated to Thordus Instrumagius, who was also a chief
22
in Dalor; and, the latter declared, he had a similar vision. Wherefore,
abandoning the idea of resisting Olaf further, Gudbrand sent him a message,
that in a public Assembly the proposition of accepting a new doctrine should be pacifically entertained. Then both Gudbrand and Thord, at the desire ofOlaf,hadoneconvened,whereagreatnumberofpeopleassembled. For three days, this conference lasted. On the first day, King Olaf and Bishop Sigurd, who accompanied him, entered upon a long discussion, to prove the existenceofonetrueGod,andaboutthekindofworshipduetoHim. The heathens took objection to their arguments, by stating, that he could not be aGod,whowasnotseen,orwhocouldnotbeshown,byanyperson; while it was otherwise with their great idol Thor, whose divinity was recognisable, and whose majestic aspect was visible to all eyes. A challenge was now offered to the Christian advocates, that as rain then prevailed, if their God had any power, he might cause it. to be fine next day, while they should bring their Thor to the Assembly, to effect the same purpose. Whereupon, King Olaf and Bishop Sigurd, in a great state of anxiety, returned to their lodgings;
19 Also called North More.
vassalage to the Norway Kings. '
inspiring countenance appeared and said
10
21 Also called Raunsdal.
valley
23 Also written Hedemark.
Also called South More.
22 A
In the same tract of countiy, towards the south.
IG
466 LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. [July 29.
but, they hoped, that the Almighty would work out His Divine will, . and in Hisownway. ThesonofGudbrandaccompaniedthem. TheKingand
Bishop Sigurd spent that whole night in prayer, and after early dawn, when Mass had been celebrated, both set out for the Assembly. The morning shoneoutbeautifully,butthistrialdidnotsatisfyall; for,thepeopledesiredto see, if it should happen so the day after. The King and the Bishop prayed as before, during that night, and then they went again to the Assembly. That day was also very fine. The heathens now with great ceremony brought out their idol Thor, which was of great size, and profusely adorned with gold and silver enrichments. The idolaters all cried out, that he was the true and onlypowerfulGod. ThenOlaflaughed,andimmediatelytheiridolfellinto
: smallpieces. Whereupon,Gudbrandexclaimed "Wehavereceivedagreat
shock, through the destruction of our God ; yet, as he cannot help himself, it
that God, whom adore. " WT
you hereupon,
is but that we now just,
worship
Gudbrand with his son was baptized, by Bishop Sigurd ; priests were left in
Dalor ; and friendship having been established between himself and King
Olaf, Gudbrand built a church in his own district.
2
Afterwards, the king went into Heidmarcb, 3 where all the inhabitants
were brought to a knowledge of Christ; pastors were stationed in their parishes ; churches were built ; and, in fine, Christian morality was there firmly established, in all parts. However, the Christians were cautioned not to penetrate into the interior of the country, lest their presence might irritate the people, where their chiefs had been subdued and coerced ; for, there fac- tions and treacherous conduct might still prevail, while plots and treason were to be feared. Thotnia and Hadaland Olaf also visited, and there, likewise, the inhabitants adopted the Christian Faith and rites. In Hringarich, the king had a great pleasure in finding the people well disposed to favour Christianity. When the people of Raumarich, however, were informed about the king's progress, they resolved to oppose him, and they assembled a very superior force at the River Nicia. At first, they made a fierce onset ; but, they were speedily put to flight. At length, they embraced Christianity. Thence pro- ceeding eastwards to Soleyas, Olaf influenced all the inhabitants of that pro-
2 vince to profess the Faith of Christ. *
Different writers have assigned various dates for the death of Olave Scot
Kilning, viz. , from a. d. toi8 2 5tOA. D. 1027 26
; but, it is generally supposed to
2 28
have happened, in io2 2, 7 as the Bollandists seem to confirm. St. Olaf spent
much of the year 1022 in Vika, and in the eastern parts, making the tour of inspection, according to his usual custom. Having returned to Sarpsburg
"
74 The Bollnndists slate:
Sanctus annum Chrisli 1021, perpetuo pro- gressu per mediterraneas sibique succeden-
tes ordine —situquc provincias ab Acjuilone in
toricus, sect, v. , vi. , pp. 96 to 100.
e j This is stated to have been the year for
his decease, by Joannes Magnus, in "His- toria Gothonun," lib. xvii. , cap. xxiii. He is followed by Gi^lo and Suaning in their chronicles. The year 1024 is assigned by Messenius, in his Annotations to Yasto- \ius.
See lib. ii. , p. 31. However, he seems not consistent in his subsequent account of our St. Olaf, when lie writes soon afterwards : "Rex Norvegice post mortem Schotta-
Mortuus konungh din supcrvixit. est veto
S. Olavus anno Domini mxxviii. "
-"
In this year, Torfeus places his death, relying on the Icelandic accounts, not alone in his " Historia Rcrum Norvegicarum," tomus iii. , HI), ii. , cap, xxiii. , pp. 108 to 112; but also, in his Notes to Yastovius, " Vilis
"
Series Dynastarum et Regum Daniae a Skioldo Odini Filio ad Gormum Grandsevum," lib. iii. , cap. x. , the same chronology has
Austrum. " "Acta Sanctorum,"
tenuis Julii xxix. De S. Olavo, Regc et Martyre, Ts'idrosice in Norvegia. Commentarius His-
6
places the death of Olave at the eighth year, alter giving his daughter Astrid in marriage.
Eric of Uptal prefers this date, for he
been observed,
-8 "
Ita clausit
vii. ,
Aquilonia," p. VJ. Moreover, in his
l! osch thus writes: Et supei vixisse quidem Olavo Succo Norvcgicum, docet
July 29. ] LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. 467
and Tonsbeig, in the spring of 1023, Olaf then sailed to the Island of Car-
9 men, towards the west, in the district of Stavangeiieen. ?
As serving to illustrate the wild actions of that age and country, while the king was guest' of the Chief Aulfnes, one of his villagers named Thorercame to complain, about an injury inflicted on him by a certain noble named Asbiorn. At this time, the king was seated at table, and Thorer gave a dubious account of the transaction, and, as in most cases, when a complaint is made, he mingled false with true statements ; however, Asbiorn, who had entered without the man's knowledge, having heard that public accusation, flew towards the accuser, who was near the king, and drawing his sword, with a stroke cut off Thorer's head. The king was justly indignant, at the perpe- tration of such an act. Immediately, he ordered the murderer to be appre- hended, and to be executed. It happened to be the Thursday after Easter, and the culprit being consigned to the keeping of one Thorarin, a near cousin named Skialg endeavoured to obtain pardon from the king, but in vain. The sentence passed was that Asbiorn should be crucified on that very night. But Skialg, having influenced Thorarin to evade this order, told the king how nocturnal executions were most reprehensible, so that the criminal had a
respiteuntilmorning. Thedayfollowing,Olafbeganhiscoursebyassist- ing at Mass, before he engaged at any other order of business ; and seeing Thorarin, he asked had the sun risen to show the punishment which was to be inflicted on their friend Asbiorn. Then Thorarin replied, that it was Friday, the day when the Omnipotent King suffered the greatest injuries, and with the meekest submission, so that it should be better to imitate him, than those wicked men, who had condemned Him to so cruel a death. This say- ing moved the king, who replied: ''Your request shall be granted, and to-day,Asbiornshallnotdie; however,guardhimcarefully,andattheperil of your own life, should he happen to escape. " Then the king entered the church. On the Saturday following, having assisted at Matins, the king was engaged longer than usual, in discussing matters at the provincial assembly, and then going to assist at Mass, he afterwards went to dinner. Then Thora- rin sought the bell-ringer, and persuaded him to ring the bronze bell for announcement of the coming Sunday's Festival,3° before the ordinary hour, and when the king rose from table. At that moment, Olaf had ordered his servants, to see that Asbiorn should be led to*execution ; but, suddenly, the bell pealed, and then Thorarin, taking advantage of the king's exact religious observances, prayed the execution to be deferred during that festive time. The king once more assented, and went to the church. When Sunday came, as Asbiorn now seemed to repent of his crime, so was he allowed by the Bishop to assist at the sacred ceremonies. Meantime, expecting what was to happen, Thorarin besought the king to release him from the disagreeable duty of being Asbiorn's keeper ; while Skialg instigated his father Erling, who was uncle to Asbiorn, that he should assemble his hosting, which
eliam Hist. Dan. , lib. 10 in Canuto Magno Saxo Grammaticus. Adamus contra Ere- mensis Hist. Eccl. , lib. 2, cap. 54, Norve- gico Suecum superstitem facit, saltern quin- quennio ; cum hunc obiisse asserat eodem tempore, quo Canutus Magnus finemvivendi fecit : et hunc sequitur Vastovius in Vite Aquilonia; imoetTheodricusNidrosiensis, ut patet turn ex cap. 16, turn maxime —ex cap. 18. Quid ergo hie ccrii statuas?
