I had given my word that they should retain their estates in case
I ever came to the throne here. I know not what to do with them. Were I to
let them go now, they would assuredly take part in any further resistance
that the English may offer to me. I will not ask them now to swear
allegiance to me, for fresh from the battle where they have lost so many
friends and the earl they loved so loyally, they would assuredly refuse."
"If you will grant me a short leave I will take ship back to Normandy and
place them in the care of my wife, where they can remain until matters have
settled down here."
"It is a good idea, De Burg; do so without delay. Methinks that after
yesterday there will be no real resistance offered to me. Harold and his
brothers and all the leading thanes lie dead. There is no one left to lead
the people or organize a resistance, therefore I can spare you for a time."
Thanking the duke, De Burg returned to his captives and told them what had
been arranged.
"We owe you our heartiest thanks, Lord de Burg, for your kindness," Beorn
said. "Assuredly so long as England resists we will not acknowledge William
of Normandy as king, but when resistance ceases, we will of course take the
oath to him if only for the sake of our people; partial risings could but
bring down his vengeance and cause suffering and ruin to all concerned.
Therefore, we gratefully accept your offer, but first of all we beg you to
let us go to the spot where our housecarls fought.
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