279.] [** Ingulph.p.68.Gul.Gemet.

lib.vii.cap.

31 Order Vitalis.p.

492.] The death of his nephew, and the inexperience and unpromising qualities of young Edgar, made him resume his former intentions in favor of the duke of Normandy; though his aversion to hazardous enterprises engaged him to postpone the execution, and even to keep his purpose secret from all his ministers.
Harold, meanwhile, proceeded after a more open manner, in increasing his popularity, in establishing his power, and in preparing the way for his advancement on the first vacancy; an event which, from the age and infirmities of the king, appeared not very distant.

But there was still an obstacle, which it was requisite for him previously to overcome.