Crusade

‘Robert, I am concerned about our northern borders. As you know, Malcolm of Scotland has flagrantly ridden roughshod over the pact we made at Abernethy. I would like you to lead our army on a campaign to remind him of his manners.’

Robert was beside himself. Not only was it a tangible affirmation of his reconciliation with his father, but it was also a major blow to Rufus, who would read into the mission the suggestion that Robert may well inherit England as well as Normandy.

William delivered his devious ploy with a smile and with cunningly chosen words.

‘Prince Edgar, perhaps you would accompany Robert? You know the Scots well; you can be of great service to us in helping to put them in their place.’

Robert looked concerned for me. I just about mustered a smile in response.

‘My Lord King, I would be honoured to accompany Count Robert. Thank you for entrusting me with the task.’

The King’s request made me wonder whether my friendship with Robert, while I continued to support the cause of my brother-in-law in Scotland, had made me a hypocrite. Here I was, the trusted friend of the Normans — at least, of Robert and his followers — while at the same time sharing my allegiance with King Malcolm and the Scots. While peace reigned the charade seemed inconsequential, but it was always Malcolm’s intention to take advantage of any Norman weakness. Not only had I been complicit in that, I had also aided and abetted Malcolm’s exploitation of the situation, the result of which was great mayhem and carnage on the English-Scottish borders.

I needed to resolve the predicament. My thoughts turned to Harold and Hereward, and the inspiration I had felt while at Harold’s tomb at Waltham Abbey. I knew what they would have done: acted courageously and truthfully.

And thus, I knew what I had to do.

We reported the outcome of the negotiations to King Philip at Melun. He was delighted that he had ensured one of two outcomes: either England and Normandy would be separated and weakened upon William’s death, or his friend Robert would rule both realms, thus bringing peace and harmony to all concerned.

We then returned to Rouen to prepare for our expedition to Scotland. There I decided to confide in Edwin, explain my dilemma and seek his confirmation that my way of resolving it was wise.

‘If we are to support Count Robert’s expedition to challenge King Malcolm, it is likely there will be a fight, where we oppose Malcolm, but I have been in contact with him ever since I left Dunfermline and have frequently sent him intelligence to his advantage. But now, there is a direct conflict of loyalties. I cannot support both sides in a war.’

‘I agree, my Prince, so you must declare yourself to both sides as neutral. I’m sure Count Robert will understand and will respect your candour. Perhaps in that way you can prevent bloodshed.’

‘That is wise counsel; I appreciate it. Will you travel with me on those terms? It means you will no longer be in the Count’s service, but serving me directly. As you know, my retinue is but a few men and I have limited funds — especially as I am likely to lose both my current benefactors.’

‘Sire, I could not think of any other place I would rather be than at your side.’

‘Thank you. We are only two — a small band of English exiles — but perhaps we will grow in number.’

‘My Prince, have you given up all hope of claiming the throne?’

‘Yes, that ambition is a millstone around my neck. If I am to find my path in life, I need to cast that dream into the midden where it belongs.’

‘Sire, if this is the beginnings of a band of brothers-in-arms, may I suggest two more recruits?’

‘Of course. But I am ahead of you. I had already thought that two Englishmen were hardly a formidable posse; Sweyn and Adela would be fine additions to our crew. And I’m sure Adela would be happy to be called our “brother”.’

Edwin and I were eager to tell Sweyn and Adela of our intentions, and we were gratified to see that their elation was almost boundless.

For the first time, the near constant expression of sullen anger on Sweyn’s face lifted, while Adela’s feminine emotions nearly got the better of her. At one point, I thought she was going to kiss me! But her sturdy resolve regained control and she kept command of herself.

I pointed out to her that there could be few concessions to her womanhood while on campaign. Her answer, as always, was forthright.

‘My Lord, with Emma and Edgiva, I was the plaything of nine Norman thugs for nearly a week. Nothing that could happen to me, now or in the future, would come close to the horrors and indignities of that.’

Sweyn put his arm around her.

‘Nothing like that will ever happen to you again. I will make sure of it.’

‘We both will,’ she said resolutely.

Edwin was smiling broadly at the pair of them.

‘Does this remind you of anything?’

‘Of course,’ said Sweyn in an almost blase way, ‘the beginnings of Hereward’s family.’