William, the two English princes, Alfred and Edward, who found no longer any countenance or protection in that country, gladly embraced the opportunity of paying a visit, with a numerous retinue, to their mother Emma, who seemed to be placed in a state of so much power and splendour at Winchester. But the face of affairs soon wore a melancholy aspect: Earl Godwin had been gained by the arts of Harold, who promised to espouse the daughter of that nobleman; and while the treaty was yet a secret, these two tyrants laid a plan for the destruction of the English princes.
Harold swearing to maintain the Right of the Duke of Normandy to the Throne of England (See p. 65.)
Alfred was invited to London by Harold, with many professions of friendship; but when he had reached Guildford, he was set on by Godwin's vassals, nearly six hundred of his train were murdered in the most cruel manner, and himself was taken prisoner; his eyes were put out, and he was conducted to the monastery of Ely, where he died soon after. Edward and Emma, apprised of the fate which was awaiting them, fled beyond sea, the former into Normandy, the latter into Flanders; at Bruges she was received by Baldwin, Count of Flanders, and Adela, his wife; while Harold, triumphing in his bloody policy, took possession, without resistance, of all the dominions assigned to his brother.
This is the only memorable action performed, during a reign of three years, by this prince, who gave so bad a specimen of his character, and whose bodily accomplishments alone are known to us by his appellation of Harefoot, which he acquired from his agility in running and walking. He died on the 14th of April, 1038, little regretted or esteemed by his subjects, leaving the crown to his half-brother, Hardicanute.
