Though gentle he was firm and resolute, prompt in action, daring in the field.

Thus, then, although the people regretted King Ethelred, there was a general feeling of hope and joy when Alfred took his place on the throne.

He had succeeded to the crown but a month when the Danes again advanced in great numbers.

The want of success which had attended them in the last two battles had damped the spirit of the people, and it was with a very small force only that Alfred was able to advance against them.
The armies met near Wilton, where the Danes in vastly superior numbers were posted on a hill.

King Alfred led his forces forward and fell upon the Danes, and so bravely did the Saxons fight that for some time the day went favourably for them.