So I need not say that I was grievously disappointed, though in the dismantled hall sat Osmund, listlessly shaping a bow stave, and waiting for what turn of fortune should take him next.
Very glad, as one might think, were both the lady and the jarl for our coming, and we had to tell them all the tale of the working of Alfred's plan, and of the great fight.

And when that was heard, we told the jarl of Alfred's wish to treat with Guthrum and the other chiefs through him.
That Osmund would gladly do; indeed, he said that, in hopes of being thus useful, he had stayed so near at hand.
So he and the thane talked long of the matter--for Alfred had sent messages--while I spoke with the lady, of Thora mostly.
It did not seem to me that I had any part in the king's business with the Danes, and so presently I thought that I could do no better than ride to Taunton to see Thora, who I feared might be in trouble or doubt as to my safety.
So I rode there with Kolgrim.

At that time the scald was laid up with a wound in the camp, and the king seemed to miss his presence, and to care for his welfare as if he were his brother; but, indeed, he made every man with whom he had to do feel as if his king were his best friend.
There is not much need for me to tell what manner of welcome I had at Taunton from Thora.

As for Etheldreda, she would have me tell her everything, and I sat with those two, until night came and rest, talking of all the time past.

But of the time to come Thora said nothing, and once or twice when Etheldreda left us and we were alone for a little while, so that I could try to plan out somewhat, she would but turn the talk again.
In the morning I found out how this was.