The hand that held the sword tightened its grip on the gilded scabbard, and he strode forward into the room fiercely.
"It is no dream, but the truth," he said hoarsely.

"Answer me, is it true ?" Now I saw the wrath growing in his face.

And I heard Witred stammer, for the fear of the great king was on him; and I knew not what Sighard might not say in his wrath, for already Selred had his hand on him to stay him.

So I spoke for the rest, being a stranger, and of no account if the anger of the king sought a vent on me.
"King Offa," said I, "there is evil wrought by stealth here, and your thanes are not to blame.

Come with me, and you shall see that so it is, and you will learn the worst.