And what these two did I
cannot say, but, at all events, there is nothing worth telling of.
Now, however, I have to tell things that I did not see or hear myself,
and therefore I would have it understood that I heard all from those who
took some part or other in the matter, and so know all well.
I have not said much of the meetings of the Witan, for I had naught more
to do with them than to guard the doors of the hall where they met now
and then; but since the princess and Ragnar came they seem to have
somewhat to do with the story, as will be seen.
On this day one of the Norfolk thanes asked in full meeting what plans
the king had for his ward Goldberga, and her coming into her kingdom,
saying that she, being eighteen years of age, was old enough to take her
place.
Now Alsi had thought of this beforehand, and was ready at once.
"It is a matter of concern to us always," he said, "and much have I
thought thereof. It is full time that she took her father's place with
the consent of the Witan, which is needed."
He looked round us for reply to this, and at once the Norfolk thanes
said, "We will have Goldberga for our queen, as was the will of Ethelwald."
"That," said Alsi, "is as I thought. I needed only to hear it said
openly. Now, therefore, it remains but to speak of one other thing and
that is a weighty one.
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