Finding that for the present they were free of the invaders, the Saxons left the fort and scattered again, to rebuild as best they might their devastated homes.
But if in the neighbourhood of Sherborne the Danes had been severely repulsed, in other parts of the kingdom they continued to make great progress, and the feeling of despair among the Saxons increased.

Great numbers left their homes, and taking with them all their portable possessions, made their way to the sea-coast, and there embarked for France, where they hoped to be able to live peaceably and quietly.
Edmund placed no hindrance in the way of such of his people who chose this course, for the prospect appeared well-nigh hopeless.

The majority of the Saxons were utterly broken in spirit, and a complete conquest of the kingdom by the Danes seemed inevitable.

In the spring, however, of 877 King Alfred again issued an urgent summons.

A great horde of Danes had landed at Exeter and taken possession of that town, and he determined to endeavour to crush them.