Then the thought crossed my mind that what he had taught me of her was like to be my safety now; but my mind was dazed by all the strange things that came into it, and I tried not to think.

Only I wondered if Ulfkytel had got the boat without a struggle with our people.
The earl was there with a few more thanes and many more guards, and they waited by the waterside.
One man started from beside the earl as we came, and rode swiftly towards us.

It was Egfrid, my brother-in-law to be--if this did not bring all that fair plan to naught.
He cried out to the men to stay, and they, knowing who he was, did so, and made no trouble about his coming to my side.

There he reined up his horse, and laid his hand on my shoulder.
"Alas for this meeting, my brother!" he cried.

"What can I do?
Men came and told me of rumour that was flying about concerning this business, and I have ridden hard to get to Reedham, but I met the earl, who told me all.