KING. Then go, go at once! I'll await you here, if the Danes go on.

PRINCE (saluting). Farewell, my King!

SOLDIERS (saluting). Farewell, King Alfred, farewell!

[They go. The King crosses to hut, and knocks at door, which is opened by the GOODWIFE. She holds a wooden bowl and a large flat stone in her hands.]

GOODWIFE (aside). Another beggar, as I live!

(Aloud, sharply). Well, what do you want?

KING. A bite to eat, goodwife.

GOODWIFE. My cakes are not yet baked.

KING. I will wait, then.

GOODWIFE (indignantly). Well, and you will not, sir!