We were hidden from the road by the crest of the hill, and I knew that the flight of the hawk had led us some way from it.
We could not be less than a full mile from them at the rate we had ridden, and I did not think it likely that they had hurried after us, for they would not spoil sport.
Now the men were round us in a ring that was closing quickly, and Wulf and I had our swords out and were back to back facing them.
Not a word had been said on either side, and I was not going to begin to talk to outlaws.

If they had anything to say they might say it.

But they had not, and I knew that they would make a rush on us directly.
One who seemed to be the leader whistled sharply, and the rush came with a wild howl and flight of ill-aimed spears that were of no harm.

The circle was too close for a fair throw at us, lest the weapon should go too far.

I had time to catch one as it passed me, and send it back with the Wessex war shout, and there was one man less against us.
I think that I cut down one or two after that, and then I felt Wulf reel and prop himself against me.