His priests were forward under cover, praying doubtless, with the athelings.

The great ship sheered off again, and bided within half arrow shot of us, all her rail crowded with men looking on.
"Neither gold nor goods have we," Elfric cried.

"We are peaceful folk who cross the seas.

It is the part of a good warrior and viking to let such go unharmed." "Aye, so it is," answered Egil; "but, as it happens, we are looking for certain peaceful folk." "You will not harm us," said Elfric, who knew nought of our queen's foolishness.

"It is but a party of church people who go to Normandy." "Put the holy man aside," said Egil to his men.