Many miles were passed before, from the decks, the Danish flotilla could be seen.

Presently, however, a great number of their galleys were discerned rowing in towards Swanage Bay.
In spite of the increasing fury of the wind the Saxons spread more sail and succeeded in intercepting the Danes.

A desperate fight began, but the Danes in their low, long vessels had all they could do to keep afloat on the waves.

Many were run down by the Saxons.

The showers of arrows from their lofty poops confused the rowers and slew many.
Sweeping along close to them they often broke off the oars and disabled them.