94. This once I felt when I sat without in the reeds and looked for my
love; body and soul of me was that sweet maiden, yet I never won her
as wife.
Odin became obsessed with a woman. He loved her but could not win her
affections.
95. Billing's daughter I found on her bed, fairer than sunlight
sleeping, and the sweets of lordship seemed to me naught, save I lived
with that lovely form.
He admired her beauty but knew that she was not interested in him
sexually. But, he continued to think of her.
96. "Yet nearer evening come you, Odin, if you wish to woo a maiden:
all were undone save two knew alone such a secret deed of shame."
Odin convinces himself to try again closer to night so that no one else will
be around to interfere.
97. So away I turned from my wise intent, and deemed my joy
assured, for all her liking and all her love I believed that I yet should
win.
Odin does this feeling confident of his future victory.
98. When before long I came the war troop were boldly watching and
waking all: with burning brands and torches borne they showed me
my sorrowful way.
But, other people come between him and the woman, forcing him away.
99. Yet nearer morning I went, once more, -- the house-folk slept in
the hall, but soon I found a barking dog tied fast to that fair maid's
couch.
He tries again in the morning. A dog prevents him from getting to the girl.
100. Many a sweet maid when one knows her mind is fickle found
towards men: I proved it well when I sought to lead that prudent lass
astray: shrewd maid, she sought me with every insult and I won
therewith no wife.
Odin learned that the reason he could not get to the girl was because she
was truly not interested. The woman was nice to him as long as he sought
nothing more than friendship but treated him badly only when he began
seeking a sexual relationship with her.