In consequence of this arrangement, a negotiation with the strangers was entered into; the Saxons were promised money and supplies in exchange for their swords and arms. The offers were acceded to, and the Picts and Scots driven
Defeat of the Saxons by Arthur. (See p. 26.)
back to their own country. Although the Saxons were far from being numerous, Vortigern became anxious to secure their services for the future, and a treaty was accordingly concluded between him and the two brothers, Hengist and Horsa, by which the latter bound themselves to return with a much larger number of their countrymen, on condition of receiving a tract of land and subsidies of various kinds.
The island of Thanet was devoted to them for their abode.
Faithful to their promise, the allies returned with considerable reinforcements, and landed on the coast of Kent.
