"Who are you, and whence do you come ?" Edmund made no answer, but, quickening his steps, passed among the trees, and was soon beyond pursuit.

This, indeed, the Danes did not attempt.

They had been surprised at seeing, as they supposed, one of their party addressing Freda, for Sweyn's orders that none should speak with her were precise.

He had given this command because he feared, that by the promise of rich rewards she might tempt some of his followers to aid her escape.

They had, therefore, risen to interrupt the conversation, but it was not until they approached that it struck them that the Northman's face was unfamiliar to them, and that he was not one of their party, but Edmund had entered the wood before they recovered from their surprise.