Now they may go on up tide to the higher towns, or else they will be back here, like a kite on a chicken, before men think, and Bridgwater town will see a great fight, and maybe a burning, before tomorrow." Then I said that the levy would beat them off easily enough; but the old warrior shook his head.
"I was at Charnmouth," he said, "when King Ethelwulf himself led the charge.

And our men fought well; but it was like charging a wall bristling with spears.

Again and again our men charged, but the Danes stood in a great ring which never broke, although it wavered once or twice, until we were wearied out, and then they swung into line and swept us off the field.

Until we learn to fight as they fight, we are weaker." Then I began to fear for Alswythe, and asked him what guard was left for the hall, and again he shook his head.
"Myself, and five others--not the strongest--and a dozen women, and three boys, thralls." I knew not what to say to this; but the wise old man had already thought of a plan in case of danger.

And in this, he said, I could advise him, for he was a stranger.
"Horses enough are left," he told me, "and if the Danes come to Bridgwater, and are not beaten off, I shall mount the Lady Alswythe and the women, and take them to a safer place.