But from the very first day that I set foot in England there has been one maiden whose ways have seemed to be bound up with my own, and I can wed none but her.

If it does not seem good to you that I should do so now, let me wait till times have grown easier between Saxon and Dane.

I think that you may know well that I shall fight none the worse for you if I must strive to win your consent." "That is straightforward," he said, smiling as if he would seem content.

"Let it be so.

But it is only fair that before we close this bargain you should see the well-dowered fair lady of whom I speak." "I will do so if this matter is unknown to her," I answered, "else would be trouble, perhaps, and discomfort.