human
You have come in good time, King Ranald, Odda said.
gpt
You see what state we are in; can you better it for us?
human
Many things I can see that need strengthening, I answered.
gpt
But you seem to take me into your counsels over soon, seeing that I have just fallen on you sword in hand.
human
Why, said Odda frankly,
gpt
Ay, said I,
human
You have put a thought in my mind, and I am glad you did board us, seeing there is no harm done, Odda answered.
gpt
I will tell you what it is. Send me some of your men to order my people and tell them how to prepare for battle. Here am I sent to sea for the first time, with good warriors enough who are in like case, and a few seamen who can sail the ship and know nought else.
human
You have some Norsemen yonder, if I mistake not,
gpt
Ay--wandering vikings who care nought for what I say. They were going to Rolf, and the king persuaded them to take this cruise first. If you can make them follow you, there will be another matter for which I shall be more than thankful.
human
They will follow Ranald Vemundsson well enough; have no care about that.
gpt
These are the finest ships I have ever seen. Where did they come from?
human
Alfred, our king, planned them, said Odda, with much pride;
gpt
How will you like to command one of these, Thord?
human
I like the ship well enough. The crew is bad. And then, whose command is the fleet under?
gpt
Take the ship, Thord, and lick my crew into shape; and Ranald, your king, shall command the fleet,
human
Fair and softly, said Thord bluntly.
gpt
I can do the two things you ask me; but will your men follow Ranald?
human
Faith, said Odda,