But every night, after working with us and cheering all with his voice and example, Alfred went back to Athelney with us; and none would seek to disturb him there, so that for long none quite knew, among the lesser folk, where he bided.

Presently the queen and athelings came there to him, and were safe.
That time in the fens was not altogether unpleasant, though the life was hard.

Ever was Alfred most cheerful, singing and laughing as we wrought, and a word of praise from him was worth more than gold to every man.

And then there were the hunting, the fishing, and the snaring of wild fowl, that were always on hand to supply our wants, though now we had plenty of food from the Quantock side.
I know this, that many a man who was in Athelney with Alfred was the better therefor all the days of his after life.

Men say that there is a steadfast look in the faces of the Athelney thanes, by which they can be well known by those who note the ways of men.
The frost lasted till February went out in rain and south winds.
And then the Danes began to gather along the southern hills, watching us.