Near the stream Edmund and his companions with their swords soon cleared away a circle, and with the boughs constructed an arbour.

A thin screen of bushes separated them from the river, but they could see the water, and none could pass up or down unperceived.
The Saxon was charged to bring with him on his return a considerable supply of provisions, for it would have been dangerous to wander in the woods in pursuit of game.

The Northmen had, Edmund noticed, some cattle with them; but they would be sure to be hunting in the woods, as they would wish to save the cattle for provision on their voyage.

It was nightfall before the hut was completed; and as they had journeyed far for many days Edmund determined to postpone an attempt to discover what was passing in Sweyn's camp until the following evening.
The day passed quietly, and towards evening Edmund and the Dane started for Sweyn's camp.

When they approached it they saw many fires burning, and the shouting and singing of the Norsemen rang through the forest.
They waited until the fires burnt down somewhat and they could see many of the Danes stretching themselves down by them.