The fight is well-nigh hopeless, and I believe that all who take part in it are doomed to perish.

I would not that my house should altogether disappear, and shall die more cheerfully in the hope that some day you will avenge me upon these heathen.

Therefore, Edmund, I bid you take station at a distance behind the battle, so that when you see the day goes against us you may escape in time.

I shall urge our faithful Egbert to endeavour, when he sees that all is lost, to make his way from the fight and rejoin you, and to journey with you to Wessex and there present you to the king.

For myself, if the battle is lost I shall die rather than fly.