The thanes were therefore bidden to prepare for another struggle, to gather sufficient arms in readiness for all the able-bodied men in their district, and to call out their contingents from time to time to practise in the use of arms.
The ealdormen whose seats of government bordered on the sea were ordered to construct ships of war, so that any Danish armament might be met at sea.

Edmund was appointed to command this fleet, and was instructed to visit the various ports to superintend the construction of the ships, and when they were completed to exercise their crews in naval maneuvers.
The winter of 884 was spent by Edmund in the performance of these duties.

The Dragon was again fitted out, and in her he cruised from port to port.

Freda, who was passionately fond of the sea, accompanied him, as did Siegbert and Egbert.

It was not until May in 885 that the threatened invasion took place.