They got aground themselves in approaching the shoals on which the vessels of their enemies were lying.

The tide receded and left three of the vessels on the sands, and kept the rest so separated and so embarrassed by the difficulties and dangers of their situation as to expose the whole force to the most imminent danger.

There was a fierce contest in boats and on the shore.

Both parties suffered very severely; and, finally, the Danes, getting first released, made their escape and put to sea.
Notwithstanding this partial discomfiture, Alfred soon succeeded in driving the ships of the Danes off his coast, and in thus completing the deliverance of his country.

Hastings himself went to France, where he spent the remainder of his days in some territories which he had previously conquered, enjoying, while he continued to live, and for many ages afterward, a very extended and very honorable fame.