But, though he had not courage and energy enough to encounter his rival Harold during his lifetime, he made what amends he could by offering base indignities to his body after he was laid in the grave.

His first public act after his accession was to have the body disinterred, and, after cutting off the head, he threw the mangled remains into the Thames.

The Danish fishermen in the river found them, and buried them again in a private sepulcher in London, with such concealed marks of respect and honor as it was in their power to bestow.
Hardicanute also instituted legal proceedings to inquire into the death of Alfred.

He charged the Saxons with having betrayed him, especially those who were rich enough to pay the fines by which, in those days, it was very customary for criminals to atone for their crimes.

Godwin himself was brought before the tribunal, and charged with being accessory to Alfred's death.