shortly. But why Alsi orders these benches, it passes me to make out.
They are those that have been used for the weddings of his kin since the
days of Hengist. Last time was when Orwenna, his sister, wedded
Ethelwald of Norfolk. Maybe he thinks that they need airing."

He laughed and went on directing his men; but knowing what I knew, I
wondered what it all might mean, for there was one wedding that I could
not help thinking of.

Presently the hall began to fill as men came in, and every one had
somewhat to say, and all marvelled at this that was going on. Then
Berthun came and beckoned to me, for I must fetch Eglaf the captain at
once, as the king had need of him, in haste. Then Eglaf hurried to the
hall; and after a word or two with Alsi, the horns were blown outside
the hall door to call every man of the guard to the place. And when they
came, we were all set round the wall as if guarding all that were in it.
But there were none but the folk of the palace to guard, and they were
wondering as were we; and when that was done, and the click and rattle
of arms as we moved to our places was ended, there was a silence on all
--the silence of men who wait for somewhat to happen.

Now Berthun went to the door on the high place, as he was wont when all
was ready for the king's presence, and the hush deepened, none knowing
what they expected to see.

Forth came Berthun backward, as was the custom, and he turned aside to
let the king pass him. His face was red and angry, as I thought, but
amazed also. I was standing next to Eglaf, and he was at the foot of the
dais, at the end of his line of men, so that I could see all plainly.