It was deserted, the priest who usually dwelt there having fled when the siege began.

The stone which there, as in the castle, concealed the exit, was carefully closed, and the party then emerged into the open air.

Here Cuthbert bade adieu to his comrades.

Cnut had very anxiously begged to be allowed to accompany him and share his fortunes, and Cuthbert had promised him that if at any time he should again take up arms in England, he would summon him to his side, but that at present as he knew not whither his steps would be turned, it would be better that he should be unattended.

The archers had all agreed to scatter far and wide through the country, many of them proceeding to Nottingham and joining the bands in the forest of Sherwood.
Cuthbert himself had determined to make his way to the castle of his friend, Sir Baldwin, and to leave the Lady Margaret in his charge.