Meanwhile, very different scenes were on the point of being enacted only twice ten miles from the spot.
The main body of the army left its quarters on the right bank of the Avon, at the same hour in which Edwy left Æscendune to join them on their march and they proceeded in safety all through the morning. At midday they lay down to feed and to rest, and while thus resigning themselves to repose, with the guards posted carefully around, the sound of cavalry was heard in the distance, and shortly the royal party appeared. Elfric was alert to receive them, but could not conceal his surprise when he saw their diminished numbers, and perceived the absence of Redwald.
Edwy saw his look of embarrassment, and hastened to reply to the question it conveyed.
“They are left at Æscendune, fifty under the command of Redwald, to fortify the house until we return. You must go home this time, and you need not fear, for I have been a very saint at Æscendune, and they are expecting Dunstan will speedily return and canonise me. Elfric, I have used my sanctity for your advantage, since I have represented you as sharing it at least in some degree.”
“I fear me, my father is too wise to be so easily deceived.”
“Nothing of the kind; he really seemed to believe in it; at all events, I have promised you shall return with me.”
“Did they really seem to wish to see me?”
“They did really, especially your brother Alfred.”
Elfric started as if an arrow had struck him.
“Alfred. Alfred!” he said.