Bushes were planted close to the water's edge, and stakes were driven down in the narrow channel to within a few inches of the surface of the water.
Certain now that no Danish boats would be likely to turn aside from the river to enter this channel into the swamp, the party embarked in some boats which had been towed up by the Dragon and returned down the river to Paris.
The afternoon before starting all the valuable booty which had been captured from the Danes was landed and placed in security in the castle, and upon his return to Paris Edmund disposed of this at good prices to the traders of the city.
A fortnight after they had returned to Paris the news was brought in that a vast fleet of Northmen was ascending the river.

The next morning it was close at hand, and the citizens mounting the walls beheld with consternation the approaching armament.

So numerous were the ships that they completely covered the river.

The fleet consisted of seven hundred sailing ships, and a vastly greater number of rowing galleys and boats.
These vessels were crowded with men, and their fierce aspect, their glittering arms, and their lofty stature, spread terror in the hearts of the citizens.
"This is truly a tremendous host!" the Count Eudes said to Edmund, who stood beside him on the walls.
"It is indeed," Edmund replied.

"Numerous as are the fleets which have poured down upon the shores of England, methinks that none approached this in strength.