Elswitha was well acquainted with the Ealdorman Eldred, as his lands lay on the very border of her native Mercia, and she received the lad and his kinsman with great kindness.

In a short time they took their places at table.
First the attendance brought in bowls containing broth, which they presented, kneeling, to each of those at table.

The broth was drunk from the bowl itself; then a silver goblet was placed by each diner, and was filled with wine.

Fish was next served.

Plates were placed before each; but instead of their cutting food with their own daggers, as Edmund had been accustomed to see in his father's house, knives were handed round.