Though he still led the same life that they had, he displayed therein other faculties, other inclinations, other views.

In his youth he had made an expedition to England, and had there contracted a real friendship with the wise King Alfred the Great.

During a campaign in Friesland he had taken prisoner Rainier, count of Hainault; and Alberade, countess of Brabant, made a request to Rollo for her husband's release, offering in return to set free twelve captains of the Northmen, her prisoners, and to give up all the gold she possessed.

Rollo took only half the gold, and restored to the countess her husband.

When, in 885, he became master of Rouen, instead of devastating the city, after the fashion of his kind, he respected the buildings, had the walls repaired, and humored the inhabitants.