The King despatched a general and a large force to occupy the town of Durham.

The Bishop of that place met the general outside the town, and warned him not to enter, as he would be in danger there.

The general cared nothing for the warning, and went in with all his men.

That night, on every hill within sight of Durham, signal fires were seen to blaze.

When the morning dawned, the English, who had assembled in great strength, forced the gates, rushed into the town, and slew the Normans every one.