Let me go and sit by him." Then Odda led him to the upper end of the room, and every one rose as he passed by.

I drew myself nearer to the ealdorman's place, and made room for him where only the table was between him and Thord, for that bench was full.
So he put his hand on my shoulder and sat down, looking over to Thord, and saying with a quiet smile: "Thanks for that word in season, friend." But the old warrior was somewhat ashamed, and did but shift in his seat uneasily.
"Ay, ay," he growled; "I cannot keep my voice quiet." Neot laughed, and then turned to me and held out his hand for the king's letter, which I gave him.
He ran his eyes over the writing very quickly, and then said: "Here is nothing private; shall I read aloud ?" But the thanes fell to talking quickly, and I nodded.
"Alfred the king to his cousin Ranald Vemundsson, greeting.

Odda the ealdorman of Devon, and one Godred, have spoken to me of yourself--one telling of help given freely and without question of reward or bargain made, and the other of certain plain words spoken this morning.

Now I would fain see you, and since the said Godred seems to doubt if you will come to me, I ask it under my own hand thus.

For I have thanks to give both to you and your men, and also would ask you somewhat which it is my hope that you will not refuse me.