Tell me not where
she is. What is done cannot be undone, but I would fain that, in the time
that is to come, I may at least know where to send her a message should it
be needful."
CHAPTER XIV.
WULF'S SUSPICIONS.
Beyond the fact that the name of the king had changed, the death of Edward
and the accession of Harold made no sensible difference in the government
of the southern half of England. Harold had practically reigned for years,
and the fact that he was now able to give his orders direct instead of
having nominally to consult Edward, had only the effect that the affairs of
the state moved somewhat more promptly. Such of the Norman favourites of
Edward as desired to leave were permitted to do so, and were honourably
escorted to the coast, but many remained. The Norman prelates and abbots
retained their dignities undisturbed, and several of the court officials of
Edward held the same positions under Harold.
A fortnight after the coronation a party of Norman barons arrived, bearing
a summons from Duke William to Harold to fulfil the oath he had sworn to be
his man, and also to carry out his engagement to marry one of William's
daughters. They were received with all honour, and Harold informed them
that he would, without delay, reply to the duke's summons. A few days
later three thanes of high rank started for Normandy with Harold's reply.
Wulf accompanied them.
"I would that you should go with them, Wulf," Harold had said to him.
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