"Alfgar can perhaps inform you, but one day must have been much like another to him in the Danish camp."
"His statement would need verification," said Ednoth.
"He is as true and brave as any man here."
"Of course, all Danes are true and brave," said Edric.
"He is a Christian."
"Yes; I think he became one on St. Brice's day," suggested Edric.
"To save his life, no doubt," said the sheriff.
Meanwhile Ethelred had changed colour, and Edric cried out:
"Have we not forgotten in whose presence we are? The king, who was quite ignorant of the mistaken zeal which misinterpreted his wishes that day, cannot bear to be reminded of it. He is all too merciful and gentle for such days as ours."
"I suppose he put on mourning for Elfhelm," whispered Edmund in the bishop's ear.