And that was pleasant, and even as I should have most wished.

Moreover, my friends, and Alfred, and Ceorle stood by me as if for shield wall at that time, and I was well attended.
Now betimes, in the afternoon, came Alfred the Atheling to me as I sat with Ceorle, talking of the arms of the vikings, and asked me to come and speak with friends of his, who would not see him save he brought me.
And at that Ceorle laughed, saying that they must be of importance if they would deny the prince an audience, making conditions.

And Alfred said very gravely that they were so, and maybe the only people, save the king and queen, who might delay seeing him.
So I was curious to know who these were.

But we left Ceorle still laughing.

Then Alfred took me to the abbey, and sent one of his men to say we had come, who, when he returned, bade us into the presence of these people.
When we came to a great door, in a part of the abbey where I had not before been, he took my arm, and pushed me in first, saying that he would ensure himself a good reception; and there sat Ealhstan, and beside him stood Alswythe, smiling at me, and with a little colour in her face..