"Indeed," said I, "but I wish Edric had nought to do with it."
"So did I at first, but I feel convinced that the young Dane who vanished so suspiciously must have deceived the prince concerning the presence of Edric in the Danish camp, and that we have no sufficient reason for thinking him such a child of hell as he would be could he betray his country thus cruelly. It would be Satanic wickedness. He is, I believe, a bad and untrustworthy man, but not quite so bad as all that."
I tried to explain my reasons for being of a contrary opinion, and asked what was the plan.
"Advanced guards have been placed all along the coasts of Hampshire, beacons prepared on every hill, with constant attendants, so that the Danes would find their coming blazed over the country at once."
"But if so, what men have we to oppose to them?"
"The sheriff has promised that the levies shall appear in case of need."
"Does he realise the danger?"
"I hardly think he believes in it; but the beacons will give sufficient warning."
"Who has arranged the guards and chosen the sites for the beacons?"
"Edric, of course, as general of the forces under the king."