Gradually their galleys fell back out of bow-shot, and after continuing the chase for some little time longer they abandoned it as hopeless and lay upon their oars to rest.
A shout of triumph rose from the Saxons, and then Edmund, who had hitherto been fully occupied with the command of the vessel, turned to Freda, who was still standing by her father.
"I have been a long time in fulfilling my promise, Freda," he said; "but as your father will tell you I have done my best.

Thank God, who has given me success at last!" "I never doubted that you would come, Edmund," she said, "and the knowledge has enabled me to stand firm against both the entreaties and threats of Sweyn.

How can I thank you for all you have done for me ?" "I have spoken to your father, Freda; and he has promised me your hand if you, indeed, are willing to bestow it.

I promised to come for you if you would wait, nearly five years ago, and I have never thought of any other woman." "I have waited for you, Edmund," she said simply, "and would never have wed another had you not come.

You are my hero, and methinks I have loved you ever since the day when you boarded our ship off the mouth of the Humber." "Take her, Edmund," Siegbert said; "you have nobly won her, and there is no one to whom I could be so well content to intrust her.