After this they arrayed them for combat.
Egil came forward with helm on head,
and shield before him, and halberd in hand,
but his sword Dragvandill he suspended from his right arm.
It was the custom with those who fought in
single combats so to arrange that the sword should need
no drawing during the fight, but be attached to the arm,
to be ready at once when the combatant willed.
Atli had the same arming as Egil.
He was experienced in single combats,
was a strong man, and of a good courage.
To the field was led forth a bull,
large and old—'sacrificial beast'
such was termed—to be slain by him who won the victory.
Sometimes there was one such ox,
sometimes each combatant had his own led forth.