There was a fair wind for us into the Thames mouth, and all seemed to be going well.

But when we came off the Medway it seemed that there was to be fighting, for our way was blocked by a fleet and that stronger than ours.
Now as the longships were cleared for the weapon play, Olaf wondered how the Danes should have had word of our coming, for it was plain that this fleet of ten ships was waiting for us.

Yet we had kept well away from the forelands, lest we should make it too plain where we were going.
Then one ship left the rest and came swiftly towards us, under oars.

And when the ship drew near, we saw that she bore the banner of Ethelred himself.
So the fair plans that had been made had come to naught, and when Olaf understood this his face grew dark with anger, and he said: "Almost would I leave this foolish king to go his own way without help of mine.

But I have promised Eadmund, and I must keep my word.
Henceforward I shall know what I must look for." Little, therefore, had Olaf to say to Ethelred when they met, nor would he go on board the English ship, but Ethelred must come to him.