Cynewulf, in turn, after spending his days in fighting the Welsh, lost his life in a quarrel with Cyneheard, brother of the outlawed Sigeberht.

He had endeavoured to drive out the aetheling; but Cyneheard surprised him at Merton, and slew him with all his thegns, except one Welsh hostage.

Next day, the king's friends, headed by the ealdorman Osric, fell upon the aetheling, and killed him with all his followers.

In the very same year, AEthelbald of Mercia was killed fighting at Seckington; and Offa drove out his successor, Beornred.

Of such murders, wars, surprises, and dynastic quarrels, the history of the eighth century is full.