And from his words it was plain that some of the Danish chiefs had broken away from Guthrum, and were making this unheard-of mid-winter march to surprise Alfred.

Most likely they were newcomers into Mercia, and had nought to do with the Exeter host.
"Maybe it is true," I answered; "but I am no Dane." He laughed loudly.
"Why, then, you are one of Alfred's Norsemen! Now I warn you to get away from Chippenham, for it is unsafe, and there will be no king to pay you tomorrow.

I think that you will say with me that it were better for Osmund to come with me to meet the host than to go back to Alfred and be hung before he flies--if he gets news of us in time to do so." Herein the man was right, for Alfred had warned the chiefs at Exeter that he held the hostages in surety for peace on the part of all and any Danes.

But I thought I might learn more, so I said: "Guthrum thinks little of his friends' lives." "Guthrum!" the Dane answered sneeringly; "what have we to do with him and his peace making ?" "What then are you Hubba's men ?" "He is in Wales.

Think you that we are all tied to the sons of Lodbrok ?" "You might have worse leaders," I said.
And just then Kolgrim came along the lane, leading the three horses, and on them were the armour and weapons of the slain.