Edmund, the eldest son of Ethelred, supported, however, the declining hopes of the English for some time; in three months he fought three victorious battles; he attempted a fourth, but lost it by the base desertion of Edric, the principal author of all these troubles.

It is common with the conquered side to attribute all their misfortunes to the treachery of their own party.

They choose to be thought subdued by the treachery of their friends rather than the superior bravery of their enemies.

All the old historians talk in this strain; and it must be acknowledged that all adherents to a declining party have many temptations to infidelity.
Edmund, defeated, but not discouraged, retreated to the Severn, where he recruited his forces.

Canute followed at his heels.