"What is the use of this ?" But we could do nothing, and watched in anxiety to see what Beaduheard had in his mind.

It was impossible that he could have ridden in here with no warning of the real danger, as we had ridden two hours ago, before things had gone so far.

Every townsman had fled long since, and would be making for Dorchester.

He must have met them.
Now he halted in front of that terrible silent line, while his men seemed to shrink somewhat as they, too, pulled up.

Then he faced Thorleif as boldly as if he had the army of Wessex behind him, and spoke his mind.
"What is the meaning of this ?" he shouted in his great voice.