Front matter

NORWICH: PRINTED BY STEVENSON, MATCHETT, AND STEVENSON; FOR JOHN AND ARTHUR ARCH, CORNHILL, LONDON.

1819.

The following version of the Saxon Chronicle was undertaken by a Lady in the Country, who had only access to the printed Texts. It was far advanced towards its completion before she was informed, that the Public was speedily to be indebted to the Rev. Mr. Ingram, for a Collated Edition of these singularly valuable Annals, accompanied by a Translation and Notes.

Under the expectation of the appearance of a work so much more complete in all its circumstances, the present very limited impression is intended for private circulation, and executed in a form, which, it is conceived, may render it convenient for reference.

THE SAXON CHRONICLE.

The island Britain is 800 miles long, and 200 broad, and there are in this island five nations, English, Britons or Welch, Scots, Picts, and Romans. The Britons were the first inhabitants of the land; they came from Armenia, and first settled in the south of Britain; afterwards it fell out that the Picts came from the south of Scythia, with long ships, but not many, and they first landed in the north of Ireland, and they entreated the Scots that they might abide there, and they would not permit them; but the Scots said to them, We may nevertheless give you counsel; we know another island eastward of this, there you may live if you will, and if any withstand you, we will aid you that you may conquer it. Then the Picts departed, and came to the northern part of this land, for southward the Britons possessed it, as we said before. And the Picts took wives of the Scots, on condition that they should always choose their Royal lineage on the woman’s side, and they observed this custom long after. And it happened, in the course of years, that a division of the Scots passed from Ireland into Britain, and conquered some part of this land, and their leader was called Reoda; from him they are named the Dælreodi. Sixty years before Christ was born, Caius Julius, the Roman Emperor, came to Britain with 80 ships. He was at first overcome in a terrible battle, and lost great part of his army, and he left the remainder of his forces to abide with the Scots, and went into Gaul, and there he collected 600 ships, with which he returned to Britain, and at the first onset Cæsar’s lieutenant, named Labienus, was slain. Then the Britons took large and sharp stakes, and drove them into the fording place of a certain river, under the water; this river was called the Thames. When the Romans discovered this, they would not go over the ford: then the Britons fled to the wood fastnesses, and the Emperor conquered very many of their chief towns by great battles, and he passed again into Gaul.

1.

Octavianus reigned 56 years, and in the 42d year of his reign Christ was born: then astrologers came from the Eastern parts that they might worship Christ, and the children of Bethlehem were slain in Herod’s search after him.

3.

This year Herod died, having stabbed himself, and his son Archelaus succeeded to the kingdom. And the child Christ was brought again out of Egypt.

6.

From the beginning of the world until this year, five thousand two hundred years were gone by.

11.

This year Herod, the son of Antipater, received the government of Judea.

12.

Philip and Herod divided Judea into Tetrarchies.

16.

This year Tiberius succeeded to the empire.

26.

This year Pilate received the procuratorship over the Jews.

30.

This year Christ was baptized, and Peter and Andrew were converted, and James, and John, and Philip, and the twelve Apostles.

33.

This year Christ was crucified, being about 5226 years from the beginning of the world.

34.

This year St. Paul was converted, and St. Stephen was stoned.

35.

This year the blessed Apostle Peter established a bishop’s see in the city of Antioch.

37.

This year Pilate slew himself with his own hands.

39.

This year Caius[A] succeeded to the empire.

44.

This year the blessed Apostle Peter established a bishop’s see at Rome. This year James, the brother of John, was slain by Herod.

45.

This year died Herod, he who slew James one year before his own death.

46.

This year Claudius, second of the Roman Emperors, came to the land of Britain, and brought under his power the greater part of this island, he also subjected the Orkney islands to the Roman Empire. This was in the 4th year of his reign, and the same year was the great famine in Syria, which is spoken of by Luke, in the book of the Acts of the Apostles. Then Nero succeeded to the Empire after Claudius: he was near losing Britain by his inactivity.

47.

The Evangelist Mark began to write his gospel in Egypt.

50.

This year Paul was sent bound to Rome.

62.

This year James, the brother of Christ, suffered martyrdom.

63.

This year the Evangelist Mark died.

69.

This year Peter and Paul suffered martyrdom.

70.

This year Vespasian received the Empire.

71.

This year Titus, the son of Vespasian, slew eleven hundred thousand Jews in Jerusalem.

81.

This year Titus succeeded to the Empire after Vespasian: he it was who said that he lost the day in which he did no good.

83.

This year Domitian, the brother of Titus, succeeded to the Empire.

84.

This year John the Evangelist wrote the book called the Apocalypse in the island of Patmos.

90.

This year Simon Peter the kinsman of Christ was crucified, and John the Evangelist rested in death at Ephesus.

92.

This year Pope Clemens died.

110.

This year the Bishop Ignatius suffered martyrdom.

114

“Alexander commanded that water should be consecrated.”

116.

This year the Emperor Adrian began to reign.

124.

“Pope Sixtus ordered that the hymn, Sanctus, sanctus, sanctus, should be sung in the Mass service.”

134.

“Pope Telesphorus ordered that the angelic hymn, Gloria in excelsis Deo, should be sung on holy days.”

145.

This year Marcus Antoninus, and Aurelius his brother, took to themselves the Empire.

189.

This year Severus possessed himself of the Empire, and came into Britain with an army, and conquered great part of the island by battle; and then he built a rampart of turf, and a thick wall thereon, from sea to sea, for a defence to the Britons. He reigned 17 years, and then finished his days at York, and Bassianus[B] his son succeeded to the Empire. His other son died. He was called Geza. This year Eleutherus received the bishoprick of Rome, and held it with glory 15 years: to him Lucius, King of the Britons, sent letters, and entreated that he might be made a Christian, and he obtained that which he desired, and the Britons afterwards remained in the true faith till the reign of Diocletian.

199.

This year the holy cross was found.

202.

“This year Pope Victor decreed that the feast of Easter should be held on the Sunday, even as his predecessor Eleutherus had determined.”

254.

“Pope Cornelius removed the bodies of the Apostles by night from the catacombs, and buried that of Paul in the Via Ostensis where he had been beheaded, and that of Peter near the place where he had been crucified.”

283.

This year St. Alban suffered martyrdom.

311.

“St. Silvester, the 23d Pope: in his time, the Council of Nice was held; also the first Council of Arles, at which Avitianus, Archbishop of Rouen, was present.”

343.

This year St. Nicholas died.

379.

This year Gratian succeeded to the Empire.

“At this time a Council of 150 Fathers was held at Constantinople under Damasus, against Macedonius and Eunomius.”

381.

This year the Emperor Maximus assumed the government: he was born in Britain, and thence he went into Gaul, and there he slew the Emperor Gratian, and he drove his brother named Valentinian out of the country, and this Valentinian afterwards gathered together an army, and slew Maximus, and possessed himself of the Empire. At this time the heresy of Pelagius spread itself throughout the world.

403.

“This year Pope Innocent sent an epistle to Victricius, Archbishop of Rouen, and decreed that men should fast on the seventh day, because on that day the Lord lay in the sepulchre.”

418.

This year the Romans collected all the gold that was in Britain, and hid some of it in the earth, so that none could afterwards find it, and some they carried with them into Gaul.

423.

This year Theodosius the younger succeeded to the Empire.

425.

“At this time the series of French Kings began to reign: Pharamond was the first.”

429.

This year the Bishop Palladius was sent by Pope Celestine to the Scotch, that he might confirm their faith.

430.

This year Patrick was sent by Pope Celestine to preach baptism to the Scotch.

431.

“At this time the devil appearing in the form of Moses to the Jews in Crete, engaged to lead them dry-shod through the sea to the promised land, and thus, when many had perished, the rest were converted to Christianity.”

433.

“Pope Celestine—In his time was held the Ephesian Synod of 200 Bishops, against Nestorius Bishop of Constantinople, at which Synod Cyril Bishop of Alexandria, presided.”

435.

This year the Goths took Rome, and never after did the Romans reign in Britain. This was about 1110 years from the building of the city. The Romans reigned in Britain 470 years in all from the first invasion of Caius Julius.

439.

“Pope Leo sanctioned the proceedings of the synod of Calchedon.”

443.

This year the Britons sent over sea to Rome, and begged for aid against the Picts, but they obtained none, because the Romans were going against Ætla, King of the Huns; and then they sent to the Angles, and asked the same of the Princes of the Angle race.

444.

This year St. Martin died.

448.

This year, at the place where Herod formerly resided, John the Baptist discovered his head to two monks, who came from the east to pray at Jerusalem.

449.

This year Martian and Valentinian[C] succeeded to the Empire, and reigned seven years. In their days Hengest and Horsa, called by Vortigern King of the Britons to his aid, landed in Britain at the place which is called Ypwinesfleot (Ebsfleet): they at first assisted, but afterwards made war upon the Britons. The King commanded them to fight against the Picts, and they did so, and gained the victory wherever they came; then they sent to the Angles, and desired them to send more aid, and told them of the imbecility of the inhabitants, and of the excellence of this land. Thereupon they sent more forces; these came from three tribes in Germany; from the Old Saxons, from the Angles, and from the Jutes. From the Jutes came the men of Kent and of Wight; this is the people that now dwelleth in Wight, and the tribe among the West Saxons which is yet called the race of Jutes. From the Old Saxons came the East, the South, and the West Saxons. From the Angles (whose country lying between the Jutes and the Saxons, remained deserted from that time) came the East Angles, the Mid Angles, the Mercians, and all the Northumbrians: their leaders were the two brothers Hengest and Horsa, and they were the sons of Wihtgils; Wihtgils was the son of Witta, Witta of Wecta, Wecta of Woden: from this Woden the line of our Kings is descended, and that of the Southumbrian Kings also.

“At this time a synod of 630 Bishops was held at Calchedon against the Abbot Eutyches and Dioscorus.”

455.

This year Hengest and Horsa fought with King Vortigern, at the place which is called Ægeles-ford (Aylesford) and Horsa, the brother of Hengest was slain, and, after this, Hengest and his son Æsc assumed the government.

457.

This year Hengest and Æsc fought with the Britons at the place called Creccanford (Crayford) and there they slew four chieftains, and then the Britons forsook Kent, and fled in great fear to London.

465.

This year Hengest and Æsc fought with the Welsh near Wyppedes-fleote (Wippedfleet) and they slew twelve Aldermen, all Welsh; and one of their own Thanes, whose name was Wipped, was killed there.

473.

This year Hengest & Æsc fought with the Welsh, and gained spoils innumerable, and then the Welsh fled from the English, as they would from fire.

477.

This year Ælla, with his three sons, Cymen, and Wlencing, and Cissa, arrived in Britain with three ships, at the place which is called Cymenesora (Cimen Shore, Sussex) and there they slew many of the Welsh, and chased some into the wood which is named Andredes-leage.[D]

482.

This year the blessed Abbot Benedict shone in this world through the glory of his miracles, even as the blessed Gregory relateth in the book of dialogues.

485.

This year Ælla fought with the Welch near Mearcredes-burnan-stede.

488.

This year Æsc succeeded to the kingdom, and reigned over the Kentish men 24 years.

490.

This year Ælla and Cissa besieged Andredes-cester,[E] and they slew all the inhabitants, so that not one Briton was left there.

“At this time the blessed Mamercus, Bishop of Vienne, appointed the solemn Rogation Litany.”

495.

This year two Aldermen, Cerdic and his son Cynric, arrived in Britain with five ships at the place which is called Cerdices-ora (near Yarmouth), and the same day they fought with the Welch. And Cerdic was the son of Elesa, Elesa of Esla, Esla of Giwis, Giwis of Wig, Wig of Freawine, Freawine of Freothogar, Freothogar of Brand, Brand of Baldæg, Baldæg of Woden; and in about six years from the time Cerdic and Cynric landed, they conquered the country of the West Saxons, and they were the first Kings who took the West Saxon land from the Welsh. And Cerdic possessed that kingdom 16 years, then he died and his son Cynric succeeded him, and held it 26 years. When he died his son Ceawlin succeeded to the kingdom, and reigned 17 years; when he died Ceol succeeded and reigned five years; when he died his brother Ceolwulf succeeded and reigned 17 years, and their line goeth back to Cerdic; then Cynegils, the brother’s son of Ceolwulf, succeeded and reigned 20 years, and he was the first of the West Saxon Kings who received baptism; and then Cenwalh succeeded to the kingdom, and held it 31 years; this Cenwalh was the son of Cynegils; and then his Queen Sexburh reigned one year after him; then Æscwine, whose genealogy goeth back to Cerdic, reigned two years; then Centwine, the son of Cynegils, succeeded to the kingdom of Wessex, and reigned nine years; then Ceadwalla, whose genealogy goeth back to Cerdic, succeeded to the kingdom, and reigned three years; then Ina, whose line goeth back to Cerdic, succeeded to the kingdom of Wessex, and reigned 37 years; then Æthelheard, whose genealogy goeth back to Cerdic, succeeded and reigned 16 years; then Cuthred, whose genealogy goeth back to Cerdic, succeeded and reigned 17 years; then Sigebright, whose line goeth back to Cerdic, succeeded and reigned one year; then Cynewulf, whose line goeth back to Cerdic, succeeded and reigned 31 years; then Brihtric, whose line goeth back to Cerdic, succeeded to the kingdom, and reigned 16 years; then Ecgbriht succeeded and reigned 37 years and 7 months; then his son Athelwulf succeeded and reigned 18 years and a half. Athelwulf was the son of Ecgbriht, Ecgbriht of Ealhmund, Ealhmund of Eafa, Eafa of Eoppa, Eoppa of Ingild, Ingild of Cenred; Ina and Cuthburh and Cwenburh were also the children of Cenred; and Cenred was the son of Ceolwald, Ceolwald of Cuthwulf, Cuthwulf of Cuthwine, Cuthwine of Celm, Celm of Cynric, Cynric of Creoda, Creoda of Cerdic. Then Æthelbald, the son of Athelwulf succeeded to the kingdom, and held it five years; his brother Æthelbriht succeeded him and reigned five years; then their brother Ælfred succeeded to the kingdom and reigned 28 years and a half; then Edward, the son of Ælfred, succeeded him, and reigned 24 years; when he died his son Athelstan succeeded him, and reigned 14 years, 7 weeks, and 3 days; then his brother Edmund succeeded, and reigned six years and a half all but two days; then his brother Edred succeeded him, and reigned nine years and six weeks; then Edwy, the son of King Edmund, succeeded to the kingdom, and reigned 3 years and 36 weeks all but two days; when he died his brother Edgar succeeded him, and reigned 16 years, 8 weeks, and 2 days; when he died his son Edward succeeded to the kingdom, and reigned——

501.

This year Port and his two sons, Bieda and Mægla, arrived in Britain with two ships, at the place called Portes-muthe (Portsmouth) and they landed forthwith, and there they slew a young Briton, a very noble man.

508.

This year Cerdic and Cynric slew a British King, whose name was Natanleod, and 5000 men with him; from him the country, as for as Cerdices-ford (Charford) was called Natanleag.

509.

This year the Abbot St. Benedict, the father of all monks, went to heaven.

514.

This year the West Saxons, Stuf and Whitgar, arrived in Britain with three ships at the place called Cerdices-ora, and they fought with the Britons and put them to flight.

519.

This year Cerdic and Cynric possessed themselves of the kingdom of Wessex, and the same year they fought with the Britons at the place which is now called Cerdices-ford (Charford), and from that day forth reigned the royal West Saxon line.

527.

This year Cerdic and Cynric fought with the Britons at the place called Cerdices-leah.[F]

528.

“At this time Dionysius computed the cycle of Easter at Rome. Then Priscian explored the depths of grammar.”

530.

This year Cerdic and Cynric conquered the Isle of Wight, and slew many men at Wihtgarabyrig (Carisbrook).

534.

This year Cerdic, the first King of Wessex, died, and his son Cynric succeeded to the kingdom, and reigned 26 years, and they had given all the Isle of Wight to Cerdic’s two nephews, Stuf and Wihtgar.

538.

This year, 14 days before the March calends, the sun was eclipsed from early in the morning till nine in the forenoon.

540.

This year the sun was eclipsed on the 12th of the calends of July, and the stars were seen at nearly half-past nine in the forenoon.

544.

This year Wihtgar died, and was buried at Wihtgarabyrig (Carisbrook).

547.

This year Ida assumed the government; from him descended the Northumbrian royal line.—Ida was the son of Eoppa, Eoppa of Esa, Esa of Ingin, Ingin of Angenwit, Angenwit of Aloc, Aloe of Beonoc, Beonoc of Brand, Brand of Bældæg, Bældæg of Woden, Woden of Freotholaf, Freotholaf of Frithowulf, Frithowulf of Finn, Finn of Godwulf, Godwulf of Geat: and Ida reigned 12 years, and built Bebbanburh (Bamborough), which was at first surrounded by a hedge and afterwards by a wall.

552.

This year Cynric fought with the Britons at the place called Searobyrig (Salisbury), and put them to flight. Cerdic was the father of Cynric, and the son of Elesa, Elesa of Esla, Esla of Gewis, Gewis of Wig, Wig of Freawine, Freawine of Frithogar, Frithogar of Brand, Brand of Bældæg, Bældæg of Woden. Egelberht (Ethelberht), the son of Eormenric was born, and in the — year of his reign, he, first of the (Saxon) Kings of Britain, received baptism.

556.

This year Cynric and Ceawlin fought with the Britons at Beranbyrig (Banbury).

560.

This year Ceawlin succeeded to the kingdom of Wessex; and (Ida being dead), Ælla to that of Northumberland,[G] and he held it 30 years. Ælla was the son of Yffe, Yffe of Uscfrea, Uscfrea of Wilgis, Wilgis of Westerfalcna, Westerfalcna of Sæfugl, Sæfugl of Sæbald, Sæbald of Sigegeat, Sigegeat of Swæfdæg, Swæfdæg of Sigegear, Sigegear of Wægdæg, Wægdæg of Woden, Woden of Frithowulf. This year Æthelbriht succeeded to the kingdom of Kent, and reigned 53 years. In his days the holy Pope Gregory sent us baptism, this was in the 32d year of his reign. And the Priest Columba came to the Picts, and converted those who live by the northern moors to the faith of Christ: and their King gave him the island that is called Ii (Iona); it contains five hides of land, and there, as men say, Columba built a monastery, and he lived there as Abbot 32 years, and he died there when he was 77 years old. The place is still in the possession of his heirs. The southern Picts were baptized long before by Bishop Ninna, who was educated at Rome.—His church and monastery consecrated in the name of St. Martin, are at Hwiterne (Whitehorn), and there he resteth with many holy men. Now there shall ever be an Abbot and not a Bishop in Iona, and all the Scotch Bishops shall be subject to him, because Columba was an Abbot and no Bishop.

568.

This year Ceawlin and his brother Cutha fought with Æthelbyrht and drove him into Kent, and they slew two Aldermen, Oslac and Cnebba, at Wibbandun (Wimbledon).

571.

This year Cuthwulf fought with the Britons at Bedican-ford (Bedford), and took four towns, Lygean-burh (Leighton, Bedfordshire?) and Ægeles-burh (Ailesbury), and Bennington (Benshington, Oxfordshire), and Egones-ham (Ensham, Oxfordshire); and he died the same year.

577.

This year Cuthwin and Ceawlin fought with the Britons, and slew three Kings, Conmail and Condidan and Farinmail, at the place called Deorham (Durham or Dyrham, Gloucestershire) and they took three towns, Gloucester and Cirencester and Bath.

583.

This year Mauricius succeeded to the Roman Empire.

584.

This year Ceawlin and Cutha fought with the Britons at the place called Fethanleag (Frethorn, Gloucestershire?) and Cutha was slain there, and Ceawlin took many towns, and spoils, and treasures innumerable, and he returned thence to his own abode.

588.

This year King Ælla died, and Æthelric reigned after him five years.

591.

This year there was a great slaughter in Britain at Wodnes-beorg (in Wiltshire?) and Ceawlin was driven out, and Ceolric reigned six years.

592.

This year Gregory succeeded to the Popedom of Rome.

“This Pope Gregory added to the mass service the words, Diesque nostros in tuâ pace disponas, &c.”

593.

This year Ceawlin and Cwichelm and Cryda, (King of Mercia) died, and Æthelfrith succeeded to the kingdom of Northumberland; he was the son of Æthelric, and Æthelric of Ida.

596.

This year Pope Gregory sent Augustine, with many monks, into Britain, to preach the word of God to the English people.

“At this time St. Benedict’s Monastery was destroyed by the Lombards.”

597.

This year Ceolwulf began to reign over the West Saxons, and he was always at war, and fighting either with the English, the Welsh, the Picts, or the Scots: he was the son of Cutha, Cutha of Cynric, Cynric of Cerdic, Cerdic of Elesa, Elesa of Esla, Esla of Gewis, Gewis of Wig, Wig of Freawine, Freawine of Frithugar, Frithugar of Brand, Brand of Bældæg, Bældæg of Woden. This year Augustine and his companions came to England.

601.

This year Pope Gregory sent a pall into Britain for Archbishop Augustine; he also sent many divines to his assistance, and the Bishop Paulinus brought Edwin King of Northumberland to be baptized.

603.

This year Ægthan, King of the Scots, fought with the Dælreodi, and with Æthelferth, King of Northumberland, at Dægstane,[H] and almost the whole of his army was destroyed. Theodbald, the brother of Æthelferth, was slain there with all his troop. Never after durst any Scotch King lead an army against this people.

604.

This year Augustin consecrated two bishops, Mellitus and Justus: he sent Mellitus to preach baptism to the East Saxons, where there was a King named Sæbyrht, the son of Ricola the sister of Æthelbyrht, whom Æthelbyrht had established there as King; and Æthelbyrht gave Mellitus a Bishop’s see at London, and to Justus he gave one at Rochester which is 24 miles from Dorwitceaster (Canterbury).

606.

This year Gregory died, about ten years from the time that he sent us baptism; his father was named Gordian, and his mother Silvia.

607.

This year Ceolwulf fought with the South Saxons. And this year Æthelfrith led his army to Leger-ciestre (Leicester) and there he slew Welshmen without number, and thus was fulfilled the prophecy of Augustin which he spoke, saying, If the Welsh will not be at peace with us, they shall perish at the hands of the Saxons. Two hundred priests were slain, who came thither that they might pray for the Welch army; their Alderman was named Brocmail, and he escaped thence with some fifty men.

611.

This year Cynegils succeeded to the kingdom of Wessex, and held it 31 years. Cynegils was the son of Ceol, Ceol of Cutha, Cutha of Cynric.

614.

This year Cynegils and Cwichelm fought at Beamdune (Bampton, Devon?) and slew two thousand and forty-six Welshmen.

616.

This year died Æthelbyrht, King of Kent, the first English King who received baptism, and he was the son of Eormenric; he had reigned 56 years, and his son Eadbald succeeded him. And the same year 5,818 winters had passed away since the beginning of this world. Eadbald renounced his faith, and lived after the heathen manner, insomuch that he had to wife his father’s widow. Whereupon Laurentius, who was then Archbishop of Kent, resolved to go southward over sea, and to abandon all here. And the Apostle Peter came to him by night, and beat him sorely, because he would thus have forsaken the flock of God; and he commanded him to go to the King, and to preach the true faith to him; and he did so, and the King was converted unto the true faith again. In this King’s days the same Laurentius, who was Archbishop of Kent after Augustin, died on the 4th of the Nones of February, and he was buried near Augustin. The holy Augustin, when in perfect health, consecrated him Bishop, to the end that the Church of Christ, which was yet new in England, might have no interval without an Archbishop after his death. After Laurentius, Mellitus, who was before Bishop of London, succeeded to the Archbishoprick; then the inhabitants of London, where Mellitus had been, became heathens, and within five years, Eadbald still reigning, Mellitus died. Justus succeeded to the Archbishoprick; he had been Bishop of Rochester, and he consecrated Romanus to that bishoprick.

617.

This year Æthelfrith King of the Northumbrians, was slain by Redwald King of the East Angles, and Edwin the son of Ælla obtained possession of the kingdom, and conquered all Britain, excepting Kent alone, and he drove out the Princes the sons of Æthelfrith; these were, first Eanfrid, then Oswald and Oswin, Oslac, Oswudu, Oslaf and Offa.

624.

This year Archbishop Mellitus died.

625.

This year Paulinus was consecrated Bishop of Northumberland by Archbishop Justus, on the 12th of the calends of August.

“This is the Cycle of Dionysius. It consists of five series of nineteen years, that is of 95 years, and it takes its beginning from the 30th year of our Lord’s incarnation, and finishes in the 626th year. This series of nineteen years, which the Greeks call Enneakaidekaeteris, and Pope John calls Kaideris, was established by the holy Fathers in the Council of Nice, and agreeably to such mode of calculating the 14th day of the (March) moon marked Easter every year without any uncertainty.”

626.

This year came Eomer from Cwichelm, King of Wessex, and thought to murder King Edwin, but he stabbed his thane Lilla, and Forthher, and wounded the King. And the same night a daughter was born to Edwin; she was named Eanfled: then the King promised Paulinus that he would dedicate his daughter to God, if he would obtain of God that he might destroy his enemy who had sent the assassin. And he then marched with an army against the West Saxons, and there he overcame five Kings and slew much people. This year Eanfled, King Edwin’s daughter, was baptized on the holy eve of Pentecost, and within twelve months the King was baptized at Easter with all his nobility. Easter then fell on the 2d of the Ides of April. This took place at York, where he had before ordered a church of wood to be built, which was consecrated in the name of St. Peter. There the King gave Paulinus a Bishop’s See, and there he afterwards ordered a larger church to be built of stone. This year Penda succeeded to the kingdom (of Mercia) and reigned 30 years, and he was 50 years old when he began to reign. Penda was the son of Wybba, Wybba of Cryda, Cryda of Cynewold, Cynewold of Cnebba, Cnebba of Icel, Icel of Eomær, Eomær of Angeltheow, Angeltheow of Offa, Offa of Wærmund, Wærmund of Wihtlæg, Wihtlæg of Woden.

627.

This year King Edwin was baptized with his people by Paulinus, at Easter. This Paulinus also preached Christianity in Lindisse (Lindsey), where a certain rich man named Blecca believed first, with all his adherents. And at this time Honorius succeeded to the Popedom after Boniface; he sent a pall hither to Paulinus. And Archbishop Justus died, and Honorius was consecrated Archbishop of Canterbury by Paulinus at Lincoln, and the Pope also sent a pall to him, and he sent letters to the Scotch that they should turn to the observance of the true Easter.

628.

This year Cynegils and Cwichelm fought with Penda at Cirencester, and they made a treaty there.

632.

This year Eorpwald was baptized.

633.

This year King Edwin was slain by Cadwalla and Penda at Heth-felda (Hatfield, near Doncaster?) on the 2d of the Ides of October, and he had reigned 17 years, and his son Osfrith also was slain with him. And after this Ceadwalla and Penda went and laid waste all Northumberland. When Paulinus saw this, he took Æthelburga, the widow of Edwin, and went in a ship to Kent, and Eadbald and Honorius received him very honorably, and gave him the Bishoprick of Rochester, and he abode there till his death.

634.

This year Osric, whom Paulinus had baptized, succeeded to the kingdom of Deira; he was the son of Ælfric, the uncle of Edwin; and Eanfrith, the son of Æthelfrith, succeeded to the kingdom of Bernicia. And this year Bishop Byrinus first preached baptism to the West Saxons under King Cynegils: this Byrinus came thither by the command of Pope Honorius, and was Bishop there till the end of his life. And this year also Oswald succeeded to the kingdom of Northumberland, and he reigned nine years, the ninth year being numbered to him because of the heathenism of those who reigned the one year between him and Edwin.

635.

This year King Cynegils was baptized by Bishop Byrinus at Dorchester (Oxfordshire) and Oswald, King of Northumberland, was his godfather.

636.

This year King Cwichelm was baptized at Dorchester (Oxfordshire), and he died the same year; and Bishop Felix preached the Christian faith to the East Angles.

639.

This year Byrinus baptized King Cuthred at Dorchester, and took him for his godson.

640.

This year Eadbald, King of Kent, died; he reigned 25 years. He had two sons, Ermenred and Ercenberht, and Ercenberht reigned after his father. He threw down all the idols in his kingdom, and he was the first of English Kings who appointed the fast before Easter. His daughter was named Ercongota, an holy woman, as he was a glorious man, and her mother was Sexburh, the daughter of Anna, King of the East Angles: and Ermenred had two sons, who were martyred by Thunor.

642.

This year Oswald King of Northumberland was slain by Penda the Southumbrian, at Maserfeld (Oswestry) on the Nones of August, and his body was buried at Bearthan-ege (Bardney, on the Witham, Lincolnshire). His sanctity and his miracles were afterwards greatly renowned throughout the island, and his hands are preserved incorrupted at Bamborough. And the same year that Oswald was slain, his brother Oswiu succeeded to the kingdom of Northumberland, and reigned 28 years.

643.

This year Cenwalh succeeded to the kingdom of Wessex, and reigned 31 years. He caused the old church of Winchester to be built, and consecrated in the name of St. Peter. This Cenwalh was the son of Cynegils.

644.

This year Paulinus, who had been Archbishop of York, (and afterwards Bishop of Rochester) died at Rochester on the 6th of the ides of October; he was a Bishop 19 years, two months, and twenty-one days; and this year Oswin the son of Osric, the cousin of Edwin, succeeded to the kingdom of Deira, and reigned seven years.

645.

This year King Cenwalh was driven from his kingdom by King Penda.

646.

This year King Cenwalh was baptized.

648.

This year Cenwalh gave his kinsman Cuthred 3000 hides of land, near Æsces-dun (Aston, Berkshire?). This Cuthred was the son of Cwichelm, Cwichelm of Cynegils.

650.

This year Ægelbyrht of Gaul received the Bishoprick of Wessex, after the Roman Bishop Byrinus.

651.

This year King Oswin was slain on the 13th of the calends of September; and about twelve days afterwards Bishop Aidan died on the 2d of the calends of September.

652.

This year Cenwalh fought at Bradford on the Avon.

653.

This year the Mid Angles, under the Alderman Peada, received the true faith.

654.

This year King Anna was slain. And Botulf began to build the monastery at Icanhoe (Boston?) And Archbishop Honorius died this year on the 2d of the calends of October.

655.

This year Penda was killed at Winwid-feld, (on the river Winwed, now the Aire, near Leeds) and with him 30 others of Royal lineage, some of whom were Kings; amongst these was Æthelhere, the brother of Anna King of the East Angles: and the Mercians became Christians. Then had 5,850 years passed away since the beginning of the world. And Peada, the son of Penda, succeeded to the kingdom of Mercia: he and Oswin (Oswy?) the brother of King Oswald, came together, and agreed that they would build a monastery for the love of Christ, and to the honour of St. Peter. And they did so, and they gave it the name of Medeshamstede,[I] because there is at this place a whirlpool (in the river Nen) called Medeswæl. And they began the foundations, and wrought thereon, and they committed the care of the work to a monk named Saxulf; he was the friend of God, and all the people loved him, and he was very nobly born in the world, and rich, but he is now much richer with Christ. And king Peada reigned not long, for he was betrayed by his own wife at Easter. This year Ithamar Bishop of Rochester, consecrated Deusdedit to the Archbishoprick of Canterbury, on the 7th of the calends of April.

656.

This year Peada was slain, and (after three years) Wulfhere, the son of Penda, took possession of the kingdom of Mercia. In his time Medeshamstede, which his brother had founded, became very rich: the King favoured it much for love of his brother Peada, and for love of Oswy his brother in baptism, and for love of the Abbot Saxulf. Then he said he would make it renowned and glorious, and this with the advice of his brothers Æthelred and Merwala, of his sisters Kyneburg and Kyneswith, with the advice also of the Archbishop who was named Deusdedit, and with that of all his wise men (gewitan) both clergy and laity in the kingdom; and he did so. Then the King sent to the Abbot that he should come to him with all diligence, and he came: then said the King to the Abbot, “I have sent for thee, beloved Saxulf, for the good of my soul, and I will clearly tell thee wherefore. My brother Peada and my beloved friend Oswy began a monastery for the love of Christ and of St. Peter, and my brother is departed from this life even as Christ willed, and I would pray thee, O beloved friend, that they labour diligently at this work, and I will find thee gold and silver and land, and all and every thing that behooveth thereto.” Then the Abbot went home and began to work, and he sped as Christ enabled him, so that in a few years the monastery was finished. When the King heard that, he was very glad, and he gave commandment to send throughout the land to all his Thanes, to the Archbishops and Bishops, and to his Earls, and to all who loved God, that they should come to him, and he appointed the day on which the monastery should be consecrated. King Wulfere was present when the monastery was consecrated, together with his brother Æthelred and his sisters Kyneburg and Kyneswith: and Deusdedit Archbishop of Canterbury, and Ithamar Bishop of Rochester, and the Bishop of London named Wina, and Jeruman Bishop of Mercia, and Bishop Tuda consecrated the monastery, and the priest Wilfred who was afterwards a Bishop was there, and all the Thanes who were in the kingdom. Then the monastery was consecrated in the names of St. Peter, St. Paul, and St. Andrew. Then the King stood up before all his Thanes, and said with a loud voice, “Thanked be the high and Almighty God, for the good deed that is here done, and I will this day render honour to Christ, and to St. Peter, and I will, that you all confirm my words. I, Wulfere, do this day freely give to St. Peter, and to the Abbot Saxulf, and to the monks of this monastery, these lands and waters, and meres, and fens, and wears, all that lie around and are of my domain, so that none but the abbot and the monks shall have any claim upon them. This is the grant—from Medeshamstede unto North-burh (Narborough) and thence to the place which is called Folies, and all the fen straight to Esendic,[J] and from Esendic to the place which is called Fethermuth, and thence 10 miles in a right line to Cuggedic, and so to Raggewilh, from Raggewilh five miles to the river which leadeth to Ælm (Elme) and Wisbeach, and so about three miles to Throkonholt (Trokenhole), and from Throkonholt direct through all the fen which is 20 miles long to Derevord (Denver?) and so to Grætecross, and from Grætecross through the clear water called Bradan-æ, and thence six miles to Paccelade, and so on through all the meres and fens that lie towards the town of Huntingdon, and the meres and the lakes Scælfremere and Witlesmere, and all the others thereabout, with the lands and houses that are on the eastern side of Scælfremere, and all the fens thence to Medeshamstede and to Welmes-ford (Welmsford) and from Welmes-ford to Clive (Cliff) and thence to Æstun (Easton) and from Æstun to Stan-ford (Stamford) and from Stan-ford even as the water runneth to the abovesaid North-burh (Narborough). These are the lands and the fens which the King gave to St. Peter’s monastery. Then said the King, for this gift, it is little, but I will that they hold it so royally and so freely, that neither tribute nor tax be taken therefrom, excepting for the monks only. Thus will I make this monastery free, that it be subject to Rome alone: and I will that all amongst us who may not be able to journey to Rome should repair hither to St. Peter.” Whilst he was thus speaking, the Abbot entreated that he would grant that which he should ask of him, and the King promised that he would: “I have some monks here who fear God, and would spend their lives as Anchorites if they knew where; but there is an island here called Ancarig (Thorney), and this would I ask, that we might there build a monastery for the love of St. Mary, and that those who would lead their lives in peace and rest may dwell there.” Then the King answered and spoke thus, “Not this only, beloved Saxulf, but all things which I know that thou desirest on our Lord’s behalf, even thus I approve and grant. And I entreat thee, brother Æthelred, and my sisters Cyneburh and Cyneswith, for our soul’s redemption, that ye be witnesses, and that ye write this with your fingers. And I desire of all who succeed me, be they my sons or my brethren, or whosoever shall reign after me, that our gift may stand, even as they would be partakers of eternal life, and as they would escape everlasting torment. Whosoever diminisheth our gift, or the gift of other good men, let the heavenly porter diminish his part in the kingdom of heaven, and whosoever increaseth it, let the heavenly porter increase his portion in the kingdom of heaven.” These were the witnesses who were there, and who subscribed with their fingers the cross of Christ, and who confirmed the grant with their tongues. King Wulfere was the first who confirmed it by word, and afterwards subscribed to it with his fingers the cross of Christ, and he spoke thus, “I King Wulfere having these Kings, Earls, Generals, and Thanes as witnesses of my gift, and before the Archbishop Deusdedit, do confirm it with the cross of Christ.” ♰ “And I Oswy King of Northumberland, the friend of this monastery and of the Abbot Saxulf, do sanction it with the cross of Christ.” ♰ “And I King Sighere do confirm the same with the cross of Christ.” ♰ “And I King Sibbi do subscribe to it with the cross of Christ.” ♰ “And I Æthelred the King’s brother do confirm it with the cross of Christ.” ♰ “And we the King’s sisters Cyneburh and Cyneswith do sanction the same.” “And I Deusdedit, Archbishop of Canterbury, do confirm the same.” Then all the others who were there confirmed this grant with the cross of Christ; these were by name Ithamar Bishop of Rochester, and Wine Bishop of London, and Jeruman Bishop of the Mercians, and Bishop Tuda, and the Priest Wilfrid, who was afterwards a Bishop, and the Priest Eoppa whom King Wulfere sent to preach Christianity in Wight, and the Abbot Saxulf, and the Aldermen Immine, Eadberht, Herefield, Wilberht, and Abon, and Æthelbold, Brordan, Wilberht, Ælhmund, and Frethegis. These and many others, the King’s chief men, all confirmed the grant. This writing was made in the year 664 after the birth of our Lord, in the 7th year of King Wulfere, and the 9th of the Archbishop Deusdedit. Then they laid the curse of God, and that of all the Saints, and of all Christian people upon him who should undo any thing that was now done: “So be it,” said all, “Amen.” When this transaction was finished the King sent to Rome, to Vitalianus the Pope that then was, and entreated that he would confirm all the aforesaid proceeding with his rescript and with his blessing. And the Pope sent his rescript, saying thus, “I Vitalianus the Pope do grant unto thee King Wulfere, and unto the Archbishop Deusdedit, and unto the Abbot Saxulf, all things that ye desire; and I forbid the King or any man whatsoever to have any claim thereon, excepting the Abbot only, neither let him be subject to any excepting the Pope of Rome, and the Archbishop of Canterbury. If any man break this ordinance in any thing, let St. Peter with his sword destroy him: whosoever observeth it, let St. Peter with his key open unto him the kingdom of heaven.” Thus was founded the monastery of Medeshamstede, which was afterwards called Burh (Peterborough). Afterwards, another Archbishop came to Canterbury; he was named Theodore, a very wise and a good man, and he held his synod with his Bishops and the Clergy. Then Winfrid Bishop of Mercia was deprived of his See, and the Abbot Saxulf was chosen thereto, and Cuthbald, a monk of the same monastery, was made Abbot. This synod was held 673 years after the birth of Christ.

658.

This year Cenwalh fought with the Welsh at Pen, and drove them to the Parret. This battle was fought after he came from East Anglia: He was there three years, for Penda had driven him into exile because he had divorced his sister.

660.

This year Bishop Æthelbryht departed from Cenwalh, and Wine held the Bishoprick three years. And Æthelbryht received the see of Paris on the Seine in Gaul.

661.

This year at Easter Cenwalh fought at Possenbyrig (Pontesbury, Shropshire), and Wulfere the son of Penda laid waste the country as far as Æsces-dune (Aston, Berkshire?). And Cuthred the son of Cwichelm and King Cenbyrht died in the same year. And Wulfere the son of Penda ravaged Wight and gave the island to Æthelwald King of the South Saxons, because he (Wulfere) was his godfather: and the priest Eoppa by the desire of Wilverd and of King Wulfere first brought baptism to the inhabitants of Wight.

664.

This year the Sun was eclipsed. And Arcenbryht King of Kent died, and his son Ecbyrht succeeded him. And Colman[K] with his companions went to his own country. And this year there was a great pestilence in Britain, whereof Bishop Tuda died and he was buried at Wagele.[L] And Ceadda and Wilverth were consecrated. And the same year the Archbishop Deusdedit died.

667.

This year Oswiu and Ecbriht sent the priest Wigheard to Rome that he might be consecrated as Archbishop of Canterbury, but he died as soon as he arrived there.

668.

This year Theodore was consecrated Archbishop and sent to England.

669.

This year King Ecbyrht gave Raculf (Reculver) to the priest Basse that he might there build a monastery.

670.

This year Osweo King of the Northumbrians died on the 15th of the calends of March, and his son Ecverth reigned after him. And Hlothere the nephew of Bishop Æthelbyrht received the Bishoprick of Wessex, and held it 7 years; Bishop Theodore consecrated him. And Osweo was the son of Æthelverth, Æthelverth of Æthelric, Æthelric of Ida, Ida of Eoppa.

671.

This year there was a great slaughter of birds.[M]

672.

This year King Cenwalh died, and his Queen Seaxburh held the kingdom one year after him.

673.

This year Ecbryht King of Kent died, and the same year there was a synod at Hertford.—And St. Ætheldryth began the monastery at Ely.

674.

This year Æscwine succeeded to the kingdom of Wessex, he was the son of Cenfus, Cenfus of Cenferth, Cenferth of Cuthgils, Cuthgils of Ceolwulf, Ceolwulf of Cynric, Cynric of Cerdic.

675.

This year Wulfere the son of Penda, and Æscwine the son of Cenfus, fought at Bedanheafd (Bedwin, Wiltshire?) And the same year Wulfere died, and Æthelred succeeded to the kingdom. He sent Bishop Wilfrid to Rome, to the Pope that then was, named Agatho, and informed him by letter and by a message, how his brethren Peada and Wulfere had builded a monastery, which was called Medeshamstede, and that they had freed the same from all subjection to King or Bishop, and he desired that the Pope would confirm this with his rescript and with his blessing. Then the Pope sent a letter to England, saying thus, “I Agatho, Pope of Rome, greet well the worshipful Æthelred King of Mercia, and Theodore Archbishop of Canterbury, and Saxulf Bishop of Mercia, who before was Abbot, and all the Abbots in England, with the salutation of God, and my blessing. I have heard the desire of King Æthelred, and of the Archbishop Theodore, and of the bishop Saxulf, and of the Abbot Cuthbald, and I will that it be in all wise, even as ye have spoken. And I command, on behalf of God and of St. Peter, and of all the Saints, and of all consecrated persons, that neither King, Bishop, Earl, nor any man, receive any duty, tax, tribute, or farthing, and that none claim any service of any kind from the abbacy of Medeshamstede. I command also that the Bishop of the Shire presume not to perform either ordination or consecration within this abbacy, unless the Abbot desire it of him; neither may he claim any bishop’s or synod’s fine, nor receive therefrom any returns of any kind. I will also that the Abbot be held as the Legate of Rome over all the island, and that whosoever may be chosen by the monks be consecrated by the Archbishop of Canterbury. I will and enact, if any man have made a vow to go to Rome, which he may not be able to perform, either from sickness, from his Lord’s need of him, from poverty, or from any other cause, that he, be he of England or of any other island, repair to the monastery of Medeshamstede, and he shall receive the same absolution from Christ and St. Peter, from the Abbot and from the Monks, that he would have if he went to Rome. Now I desire thee, brother Theodore, that thou cause it to be proclaimed throughout England, that a synod be assembled, and that this letter be read and observed. I say also to thee, Bishop Saxulf, that as thou desirest that this monastery should be free, so I forbid thee, and all Bishops sent of Christ and of his Saints, who come after thee, to receive any gain from the monastery, excepting that which pleaseth the Abbot. Now will I say this in words, that whosoever observeth this rescript and this commandment, he shall dwell for ever with Almighty God in the kingdom of heaven, and whosoever breaketh it, he shall be excommunicated and condemned to punishment with Judas and with all the devils in hell, unless he come to repentance. Amen.” Pope Agatho and 120 Bishops sent this letter to England by Wilfrid Archbishop of York. This was done 680 years after the birth of our Lord, in the 6th year of King Æthelred. Then the King commanded Archbishop Theodore that he should appoint a meeting of all the Witan at the place which is called Heatfeld (Hatfield). When they were there assembled, then he caused the letter, which the Pope had sent thither, to be read, and they all confirmed the same, and fully ratified it. Then said the King, “All things that my brother Peada, and my brother Wulfere, and my sisters Cyneburh and Cyneswith, gave and secured to St. Peter and to the Abbot, I will that these stand; and I will in my day increase the gift for the sake of their souls and of mine own. Now give I this day to St. Peter and to his monastery of Medeshamstede these lands, and all thereunto belonging: to wit, Bredune, Hrepingas, Cedenac, Swines-hæfed (Swineshead), Heanbyrig, Lodeshac, Scuffanhalch, Costesford,[N] Stretford, Wætelle-burne, Lufgeard, Æthelhuniglond, Barthan-ig (Bardney), These lands I give to St. Peter all as freely as I myself possessed them, and so that none of my successors may take any thing therefrom. If any do this let him have the curse of the Pope of Rome, and the curse of all Bishops, and of all who are here as witnesses; and I confirm this with the sign of Christ.” ♰ “And I Theodore Archbishop of Canterbury am witness to this charter of Medeshamstede, and I confirm it with my own hand-writing, and I excommunicate all those who may break any part thereof, and I bless all who shall observe it.” ♰ “I Wilfrid Archbishop of York am witness to this writing, and I confirm the said curse.” ♰ “I Saxulf, who was first Abbot and am now Bishop, do lay my curse and that of all my successors upon those who may break it.” “I Ostrithe Queen of Æthelred do sanction the grant.” “I Adrian the Legate assent to the same.” “I Putta Bishop of Rochester subscribe to it.” “I Waldhere Bishop of London confirm it.” “I the Abbot Cuthbald do establish the same, so that whosoever breaketh it let him take the curse of all Bishops, and of all Christian people.” Amen.

676.

This year Æscwine died and Hedda succeeded to the bishoprick (of Winchester) and Centwine to the kingdom of Wessex. Centwine was the son of Cynegils, Cynegils of Ceolwulf. And Æthelred King of Mercia overran Kent.

678.

This year a comet appeared in August, and shone like a sun-beam every morning for three months. And Bishop Wilfrith was driven from his see by King Ecgverth, and two Bishops were consecrated for his bishoprick, Bosa for the Deiri, and Eata for the Bernicians. And Eadhed was appointed to the see of Lindsey, of which he was the first Bishop.

679.

This year Ælfwine was slain near the Trent, where Ecgferth and Æthelred fought. And this year St. Ætheldrith died. And Coludes-burh (Coldingham, Berwickshire) was burned with fire from God.

680.

This year Theodore convoked an Archiepiscopal Synod at Hatfield, that he might set forth aright the Christian faith. And the same year died Hilda Abbess of Streones-heale (Whitby).

681.

This year Trumbriht was consecrated Bishop of Hagulstades-ea (Hexham), and Trumwine as Bishop of the Picts, who were then subject to this country. This year also Centwine drove the Britons to the sea.

684.

This year Ecgferth sent an army against the Scots, and Briht his Alderman therewith, and they lamentably plundered and burned the Churches of God.

685.

This year King Ecgferth commanded that Cuthberht should be made a Bishop, and Archbishop Theodore consecrated him at York, on the first day of Easter, as Bishop of Hexham, for Trumbriht had been deprived of that see. And the same year on the 13th of the calends of June King Ecgferth was slain by the north sea, and a great army with him. He reigned 15 years, and his brother Aldfrith succeeded him: this Ecgferth was the son of Osweo, Osweo of Æthelverth, Æthelverth of Æthelric, Æthelric of Ida, Ida of Eoppa. This year Ceadwalla began to contend for the kingdom, he was the son of Cenbyrht, Cenbyrht of Cada, Cada of Cutha, Cutha of Ceawlin, Ceawlin of Cynric, Cynric of Cerdic, and Mul was the brother of Ceadwalla, and he was afterwards burned in Kent. And Hlothere King of Kent died the same year. And John was consecrated to the bishoprick of Hexham, and he kept possession of it till Wilfrith returned, and afterwards, on the death of Bishop Bosa, John received the bishoprick of York, and his priest Wilferth was afterwards consecrated to the bishoprick of York, and he retired to his monastery in Derawuda (Beverley). This year it rained blood in Britain, and milk and butter were turned into blood.

686.

This year Ceadwalla and his brother Mul laid waste Kent and Wight; this Ceadwalla gave to St. Peter’s monastery of Medeshamstede a valley in a certain island called Heabureahg, the name of the Abbot of the monastery at this time was Egbalth, he was the third after Saxulf, Theodore being then Archbishop of Kent.

687.

This year Mul was burned in Kent, and 12 others with him; and this year Ceadwalla again ravaged Kent.

688.

This year King Ceadwalla went to Rome and received baptism from Pope Sergius, who gave him the name of Peter, and he died while he was yet in his baptismal garments, about seven days afterwards, on the 12th of the calends of May, and he was buried in St. Peter’s Church. And Ina succeeded him in the kingdom of Wessex, and reigned 37 years, and he built the monastery of Glastonbury, and he afterwards went to Rome, and abode there unto the end of his days. Ina was the son of Cenred, Cenred of Ceolwald, Ceolwald was the brother of Cynigils, and they were both the sons of Cuthred the son of Ceawlin, Ceawlin was the son of Cynric, Cynric of Cerdic.

690.

This year Archbishop Theodore died, he was a Bishop 12 years, and he was buried at Canterbury, and Beorhtwald succeeded to the Archbishoprick on the calends of July; he was before Abbot of Reculver. Before this time the Bishops had been Romans, and afterwards they were English. There were then two Kings in Kent, Wihtred and Wæbheard.

693.

This year Brihtwald was consecrated Archbishop by the Gallican Bishop Godwin, on the 5th of the nones of July. At this time died Gifemund Bishop of Rochester, and Archbishop Brihtwald consecrated Tobias to his bishoprick. About this time Brihtelm also died.

694.

This year the men of Kent made a treaty with Ina, and gave thirty thousand pounds for his friendship, because they had burned his brother Mul. And Wihtred succeeded to the kingdom of Kent and held it 33 years; this Wihtred was the son of Ecgbyrht, Ecgbyrht of Arcenbyrht, Arcenbyrht of Eadbald, Eadbald of Æthelbyrht. And as soon as he was King he caused a great council to be convened at the place called Baccancelde (Beckenham, Kent?); and there Wihtred King of Kent, and Brihtwald Archbishop of Canterbury and Tobias Bishop of Rochester, with Abbots and Abbesses, and many wise men were gathered together, all to consult upon the restoration of the churches of God in Kent. Now the King began to speak, and he said, “I will that all the monasteries and churches that were given and bequeathed to the glory of God in the days of faithful Kings my predecessors, and in the days of my kinsman King Æthelberht and of those who followed after him, do so remain dedicated to the glory of God, and that they continue thus evermore to eternity. Forasmuch as I Wihtred an earthly King, incited by the King of Heaven, and burning with zeal for righteousness, have learned this of our forefathers, that no layman has the right to obtrude himself into any church or into any thing that belongeth to the church, this therefore we strictly and unreservedly establish and ordain, and in the name of Almighty God, and of all the Saints, we forbid all Kings our successors, and Aldermen, and all laymen, to hold any lordship whatever over the churches, or over any of the possessions which I or my predecessors in former days have given them, as an everlasting inheritance to the glory of Christ, and of our Lady St. Mary, and of the holy Apostles. And observe that when it shall happen that a Bishop or an Abbot or an Abbess departeth this life, it shall be told to the Archbishop, and with his counsel and advice let him that is worthy be elected, and let the Archbishop inquire into the life and virtues of him who is chosen to so high an office, and in no wise let any one be chosen or consecrated thereto without the Archbishop’s sanction. Kings shall create Earls and Aldermen, Sheriffs and Judges, and the Archbishop shall govern and direct the church of God, and shall choose and appoint Bishops, Abbots, Abbesses, Priests, and Deacons, and shall consecrate them and confirm them by good precepts and example, lest any of God’s flock stray and be lost.”

695.

This year the Southumbrians slew Æthelred’s Queen Ostrythe, the sister of Ecgfrith.

699.

This year the Picts slew the Alderman Berht.

702.

This year Kenred succeeded to the kingdom of Southumbria.

703.

This year Bishop Hedda died; he held the Bishoprick of Winchester 27 years.

704.

This year Æthelred King of the Mercians, the son of Penda, became a Monk, having reigned 29 years, and Cenred succeeded him.

705.

This year Ealdferth King of Northumberland died, at Driffield, (Yorkshire) on the 19th of the calends of January. And Bishop Saxulf died also. Then Ealdferth’s son Osred succeeded to the kingdom.

709.

This year died Bishop Aldhelm, whose diocese lay around Westan-wuda (Westwood, Wiltshire). In the early days of Bishop Daniel the land of the West Saxons was divided into two bishopricks, for before it had formed only one. Daniel held the one, and Bishop Aldhelm the other. Forthhere succeeded Aldhelm. And Ceolred received the kingdom of Mercia, and Cenred went to Rome, and Offa with him, and Cenred remained there to the end of his life. And the same year Bishop Wilferth died at Oundle, and they carried his body to Rippon; he was the Bishop whom King Ecgferth had banished to Rome.

710.

This year Acca Wilferth’s Priest received the Bishopric that Wilferth had held before, and this year the Alderman Beorhtfrith fought with the Picts between Hæfe and Cære (Heefield and Carehouse, Northumberland); and Ina and his kinsman Nun fought with Gerent King of the Welsh; and the same year Hygbald was slain.

714.

This year died St. Guthlac and King Pepin.[O]

715.

This year Ina and Ceolred fought at Wodnesbeorh (Wodensborough, Wiltshire). King Dagobert (2nd) died this year.

716.

This year Osred King of Northumberland was slain on the southern border, he had reigned 11 years after Ealdferth. Then Cenred succeeded to the kingdom and reigned two years, and after him Osric 11 years. The same year also died Ceolred King of Mercia, his body lieth at Litchfield, and that of Æthelred the son of Penda at Bardney. And then Æthelbald succeeded to the kingdom of Mercia and reigned 41 years. This Æthelbald was the son of Alweo, Alweo of Eapa, Eapa of Wyb, whose lineage hath been written before. And Ecbyrht, that venerable man, converted the Monks of Iona to the true faith, so that they held Easter aright, and received the clerical tonsure.

718.

This year died Ingild the brother of Ina: their sisters were Cwenburh and Cuthburh, and this Cuthburh built the monastery at Winborn, and she was married to Ealdferth King of Northumberland, but they separated before his death.

721.

This year Bishop Daniel went to Rome. And the same year Ina slew the Prince Cynewulf. And this year the holy Bishop John died, he was Bishop 33 years, 8 months and 13 days, and his body resteth at Beverley.

722.

This year Queen Æthelburh destroyed Taunton which Ina had built. And Ealdbryht went as an exile into Surrey, and among the South Saxons: and Ina fought with the South Saxons.

725.

This year Wihtred King of Kent died on the 9th of the calends of May; he reigned 32 years, and his lineage is written above; and Eadberht succeeded him. And Ina fought with the South Saxons, and there he slew the Prince Ealbyrht, whom he had driven into exile.

727.

This year Tobias Bishop of Rochester died, and Archbishop Brihtwold consecrated Aldulf to that bishoprick.

728.

This year Ina went to Rome, and there he ended his life, and his kinsman Æthelheard succeeded to the kingdom of Wessex, and held it 14 years; and Æthelheard and the Prince Oswald fought the same year. Oswald was the son of Æthelbald, Æthelbald of Cynebald, Cynebald of Cuthwine, Cuthwine of Ceawlin.

729.

A comet appeared this year; and St. Ecgberht died in Iona.

730.

This year Prince Oswald died.

731.

This year Osric was slain; he was King of Northumberland 11 years, and Ceolwulf succeeded him in the kingdom, and reigned eight years. This Ceolwulf was the son of Cutha, Cutha of Cuthwine, Cuthwine of Leodwald, Leodwald of Ecgwald, Ecgwald of Ealdhelm, Ealdhelm of Ocga, Ocga of Ida, Ida of Eoppa. And Archbishop Beorhtwald died on the ides of January; he was Bishop 37 years, 6 months, and 14 days; and Tatwine was consecrated the same year; he before was a Priest of Breodune in Mercia (Bredon, Worcestershire): Daniel Bishop of Winchester, Ingwald Bishop of London, Aldwine Bishop of Litchfield, and Aldulf Bishop of Rochester, consecrated him on the 10th of the month of June; he held the Archbishoprick three years.

733.

This year Æthelbald took Somerton; and the sun was eclipsed, and Acca was driven from his bishoprick.

734.

This year the moon appeared as if it were tinged with blood. And Archbishop Tatwine died, and Bede also. And Ecgbriht was consecrated Bishop (of York).

735.

This year Ecgbriht received a pall from Rome.

736.

This year Archbishop Nothelm received a pall from the Bishop of Rome.

737.

This year Bishop Forthere and Queen Frythogith went to Rome. And King Ceolwulf received St. Peter’s tonsure, and gave up his kingdom to his uncle’s son Edberht, who reigned 31 years. And Bishop Æthelwold, and Acca, died, and Cynewulf was consecrated Bishop: and the same year Æthelwold plundered Northumberland.

738.

This year Eadbryht the son of Eata, the son of Leodwald, succeeded to the kingdom of Northumberland, and held it 21 years. Archbishop Ecgbyrht the son of Eata was his brother, and they are both buried in the same aisle at York.

741.

This year King Æthelheard died, and his kinsman Cuthred succeeded to the kingdom of Wessex, and he fought with Æthelbald King of Mercia. And Nothelm died, and Cuthbryth was consecrated Archbishop, and Dun as Bishop of Rochester. York was burned this year.

742.

This year a great Synod was held at Cloveshou (Cliff, in Kent, or Abingdon), and Æthelbald King of Mercia was there, and Archbishop Cuthberht, and many other wise men.

743.

This year Æthelbald King of Mercia and Cuthred King of Wessex fought with the Welch.

744.

This year Daniel gave up the bishoprick of Winchester, and Hunferth received it. And there were many shooting stars. And Wilferth the younger, who was Bishop of York, died on the 3d of the calends of May. He was Bishop 30 years.

745.

This year Daniel died, 43 years being gone by from the time that he received his bishoprick.

746.

This year King Selred was slain.

748.

This year Cynric Prince of the West Saxons was slain; and Eadbryht King of Kent died, and Æthelbyrht son of King Wihtred succeeded him.

750.

This year Cuthred King of Wessex fought with Æthelhun, the high-minded Alderman.

752.

This year Cuthred King of Wessex, in the 12th year of his reign, fought with Æthelbald King of Mercia at Beorg-ford (Burford), and put him to flight.

753.

This year Cuthred King of Wessex fought with the Welch.

754.

This year Cuthred King of Wessex died.—And Cyneheard received the bishoprick of Winchester after Hunferth. And Canterbury was burned this year. And Cuthred’s kinsman Sigebriht succeeded to the kingdom of Wessex, and reigned one year.

755.

This year Cynewulf and the witan of Wessex deprived his kinsman Sigebryht for his unrighteous deeds of all his kingdom, excepting Hampshire, and Sigebryht kept that, till he had slain the Alderman who had adhered to him the longest, and then Cynewulf drove him into Andred, and he remained there until a certain peasant stabbed him at Pruutes-flod (Privet, Hampshire) and avenged the Alderman Cumbran. And Cynewulf often fought great battles with the Britons. And about 31 years from his accession to the kingdom he sought to banish a Prince called Cyneheard: this Cyneheard was the brother of Sigebryht, and he found that the King was gone with a small train to visit a lady at Meran-tun (Merton, Surrey), and there he beset him, and blocked up the house before the men who were with the King discovered him; and when the king perceived this, he went to the door, and defended himself manfully until he beheld the Prince, and then he rushed out upon him, and wounded him severely, upon which they all fought against the King until they slew him. When the King’s Thanes who were in the house heard the tumult, they ran thither, every one armed as he was. And immediately the Prince offered money and their lives to each of them, but none would compound with him, and they fought against him until they all fell, save one, a British hostage, and he was sorely wounded. In the morning when the King’s Thanes, who had remained behind, heard that the King was slain, they rode thither, both his Alderman Osric and his Thane Wiverth, and all those whom he had left; and they found the Prince in the town wherein the King lay slain, and the gates shut against them. And when they came up he promised them their liberty, and riches, and lands, if they would give up the kingdom to him; and he told them that their kinsmen were with him, and would not desert him. Then they answered, that no kinsman was dearer to them than their Lord, and that they would never follow his murderer, and they bade their kinsmen abandon the Prince, and depart in safety. These replied, that the same offer had been made to their adversaries the former companions of the King, and that they were no more inclined to do this thing than their own fellow soldiers who with the King had been slain. And then they fought around the gates until the Prince’s party fled into the town, and the Prince was killed, and all who were with him except one; he was godson of the Alderman who saved his life, though he had many wounds. Cynewulf reigned 31 years, and his body lieth at Winchester, and that of the Prince at Acsanmynster (Axminster), and their father’s race goeth in a right line to Cerdic. And the same year Æthelbald King of Mercia was slain at Seccan-dune (Seckington, Warwickshire) and his body lieth at Hreopan-dune (Repton, Derbyshire); he reigned 41 years. Then Beornred assumed the government, and held it for a short time and unhappily. And the same year King Offa put Beornred to flight, and took possession of the kingdom, and held it 39 years, and his son Egverth reigned 140 days. He was the son of Offa, the son of Thincferth, Thincferth of Eanwulf, Eanwulf of Osmod, Osmod of Eawa, Eawa of Wybba, Wybba of Creoda, Creoda of Cynewald, Cynewald of Cnebba, Cnebba of Icel, Icel of Eomær, Eomær of Angeltheow, Angeltheow of Offa, Offa of Wærmund, Wærmund of Wihtlæg, Wihtlæg of Woden.

757.

This year Eadberht King of Northumberland received the tonsure, and his son Osulf succeeded to the kingdom, and reigned one year, and his servants slew him on the 9th of the calends of August.

758.

This year Archbishop Cuthbryht died; he held the archbishoprick 18 years.

759.

This year at Michaelmas Bregowine was consecrated to the archbishoprick, and held it four years. And Moll Æthelwold succeeded to the kingdom of Northumberland, and reigned six years and then resigned the throne.

760.

This year Æthelbryht King of Kent died, he was the son of King Wihtred. Ceolwulf died also.

761.

This year, a hard winter. And Moll King of Northumberland slew Oswin at Ædwines-clife[P] on the 8th of the ides of August.

762.

This year Archbishop Bregwine died.

763.

This year Anbryht was consecrated Archbishop on the 14th day after Christmas. And Frithewald Bishop of Whitehorn died on the nones of May: he was consecrated at York on the 18th of the calends of September, in the 6th year of Ceolwulf’s reign, and he was Bishop 29 years. Then Pyhtwine was consecrated Bishop of Whitehorn at Ælfet-ee,[Q] on the 16th of the calends of August.

764.

This year Archbishop Jeanbryht received a pall.

765.

This year Alhred succeeded to the kingdom of Northumberland, and reigned eight years.

766.

This year Archbishop Ecgbert died at York, on the 13th of the calends of September: he was Bishop 36 years. And Fritheberht died at Hexham; he was Bishop 34 years. And Æthelberht was consecrated to York, and Ealhmund to Hexham.

768.

This year King Eadberht the son of Eata died, on the 14th of the calends of September.

769.

“The beginning of the reign of King Charles.”

772.

This year Bishop Mildred died.

774.

This year, at Easter, the Northumbrians drove their King Alhred from York, and took for their Lord Æthelred, the son of Moll, and he reigned four years. And this year a red cross appeared in heaven after sun-set. And this year the Mercians and Kentish men fought at Oxford. And wonderful serpents were seen in the lands of the South Saxons.

775.

This year Cynewulf and Offa fought near Bynsintun (Benshington or Benson, Oxfordshire), and Offa took the town. In the days of King Offa there was an Abbot of Medeshamstede named Beonne, and this Beonne, by the advice of all the monks of that monastery, let the lands of ten bondsmen at Swineshead to the Alderman Cuthbriht, with the pastures and meads, and all that lieth adjoining, on condition that Cuthbriht should give the Abbot 50 pounds for the same, and every year one night’s lodging or 30 shillings in pence, and also that the land should return to the monastery after his death. King Offa, and King Egferth, and Archbishop Hygeberht, and Bishop Ceolwulf, and Bishop Inwona, and the Abbot Beonne, and many other Bishops, Abbots, and other great men were witnesses to this transaction. In the days of King Offa there was an Alderman named Brordan; he besought the King that for love of him he would enfranchise his monastery of Wocingas (Wickins, Northamptonshire) because he desired to give it to Medeshamstede, and to St. Peter, and to the Abbot that then was; this was Pusa, the successor of Beonne, and the King loved him much. And the King freed the monastery of Wickins from service due to King, Bishop, Earl, or any other man, so that none but St. Peter and the Abbot should have any claims thereon. This was done in the King’s town called Freoric-burn.

776.

This year Bishop Pehtwine died, on the 13th of the calends of October; he was Bishop 14 years. And Æthelberht was consecrated at York to the bishoprick of Whitehorn, on the 17th of the calends of July.

778.

This year Æthebald and Hearberht slew three High Sheriffs, to wit, Ealdulf the son of Bosa at Cininges-clife, and Cynewulf and Ecga at Hela-thyrn,[R] on the 11th of the calends of April. Then Alfwold took possession of the throne and drove Æthelred from the land, and he reigned ten years. “Charles entered Spain. Charles came into Saxony. Charles destroyed the cities of Pampeluna and Saragossa; he gathered together his forces, and after receiving hostages, and subduing the Saracens, he returned into France by Narbonne and Gascony.”

780.

This year the Old Saxons and the French fought. And the High Sheriffs of Northumberland burnt the Alderman Beorn in Siltun (Silton, Yorkshire), on the 9th of the calends of January. And Archbishop Æthelberht died at York, and Eanbald was consecrated to his archbishoprick, and Bishop Cynebald (Cynewulf) gave up the see of Lindisfarne. This year Bishop Alchmund died at Hexham, on the 7th of the ides of September, and Tilberht was consecrated in his place on the 6th of the nones of October. And Higbald was consecrated at Socca-byrig (Sockburn, Durham), as Bishop of Lindisfarne.—And King Alwold sent to Rome for a pall for Archbishop Eanbold.

782.

This year Ceolred’s Queen Wærburh died; Bishop Cynewulf also died at Lindisfarne.—And there was a Synod at Aclea (Acley, Durham?)

784.

This year Cyneheard slew King Cynewulf, and was himself killed with eighty-four men. Then Byrhtric succeeded to the kingdom of Wessex, and reigned 16 years, and his body lieth at Wareham; his father’s line goeth straight to Cerdic. At this time King Ealhmund reigned in Kent, this King Ealhmund was the father of Egberht, and Egberht was the father of Athulf.

785.

This year died Botwine Abbot of Rippon, and there was a discordant Synod at Cealc-hythe.[S] And Archbishop Janbryht lost part of his diocese. And Higebryht was chosen by King Offa. And Ecgverth was consecrated King. And at this time Legates were sent from Rome to England by Pope Adrian, to renew the faith and peace which St. Gregory sent us by the Bishop Augustin: and they were received with honour.

787.

This year King Beorhtric took to wife Eadburhge the daughter of Offa. And in his days the ships of the Northmen first came from Herethaland (Denmark), they were three in number. And the Sheriff rode up to them and would have driven their crews to the king’s town, for that he knew not who they were, and there he was slain. These were the first Danish ships that sought the land of the English people.

788.

This year a Synod was assembled at Pincanheale, in Northumberland (Finkley, Durham), on the 4th of the nones of September. And the Abbot Aldberht died.

“Charles came through Germany to the borders of Bavaria.”

789.

This year Alfwold King of Northumberland was killed by Siga, on the 9th of the calends of October, and a heavenly light was often seen in the place where he was slain. And he was buried at Hexham, within the church; and his nephew Osred the son of Alchred succeeded him. And a Synod was assembled at Aclea (Acley).

790.

This year Janbryht died, and the same year the Abbot Æthelheard was chosen Archbishop. And Osred King of Northumberland was betrayed and driven from the kingdom, and Æthelred the son of Æthelwold regained it.

791.

This year Baldwulf was consecrated Bishop of Whitehorn, on the 16th of the calends of August, by Archbishop Eanbald and Bishop Æthelberht.

792.

This year Offa King of Mercia commanded that King Æthelbyrht should be beheaded: and Osred, who had been King of Northumberland, coming home after his exile, was taken and slain on the 18th of the calends of October, and his body lieth at Tinmouth. And King Æthelred took a new wife named Ælfled on the 3d of the calends of October.

793.

This year terrible prodigies took place in Northumberland, and sorely alarmed the people, these were dreadful lightnings and fiery dragons which were seen flying in the air; a great famine soon followed these portents, and shortly afterwards in the same year and on the 6th of the ides of January a heathen invasion sorrowfully laid waste the church of God at Lindisfarne by rapine and murder. And Sicga died on the 8th of the calends of March.

794.

This year Pope Adrian died; also Offa King of Mercia on the 4th of the ides of August, he reigned 40 years. And Æthelred King of Northumberland was slain by his own people, on the 13th of the calends of May, and the Bishops Ceolwulf and Eadbald departed from the land. And Ecgferth succeeded to the kingdom of Mercia, and died the same year. And Eadbryht whose other name was Præn obtained the kingdom of Kent. And the Alderman Æthelheard died on the calends of August. And the heathens plundered in Northumberland, and pillaged Ecgferth’s monastery at the mouth of the river (Were); And one of their chiefs was slain there; some of their ships also were wrecked by stormy weather, and many of the men were drowned, and some came alive to the port, and these were slain at the river’s mouth.

795.

This year the moon was eclipsed on the 5th of the calends of April, between cock-crowing and day-break. And Eardwulf assumed the government of Northumberland on the 2d of the ides of May, and he was consecrated and placed on his throne by Archbishop Eanbald, and by the Bishops Æthelberht, and Higbald, and Badwulf, at York, on the 7th of the calends of June.

796.

This year Archbishop Eanbald died on the 4th of the ides of August, and his body lieth at York, and Bishop Ceolwulf died the same year. Another Eanbald was consecrated to the bishoprick of the former, on the 19th of the calends of September. This year Cenwulf King of Mercia ravaged Kent as far as the marshes (near Romney), and took prisoner the King Eadberht Præn, and led him bound into Mercia, and caused his eyes to be put out, and his hands to be cut off. And Æthelard Archbishop of Canterbury assembled a synod, and at the command of Pope Leo he confirmed and ratified all things that were appointed concerning God’s monasteries, in the days of King Wihtgar, and of other Kings; and he spoke thus, “I Æthelard, the humble Archbishop of Canterbury, with the unanimous consent of the whole synod, and of the monasteries to which freedom was granted by faithful men in former days, and by the command of Pope Leo, do require in the name of God, and under pain of his fearful judgment, that henceforth no man daringly choose Lords over the heritage of God from amongst laymen. And even as it is commanded in the rescripts which the Pope had given, and as the holy men our fathers and teachers have appointed touching the sacred monasteries, so let it remain inviolate without gainsaying. If there be any man who will not observe this decree of God, and of our Pope, and of ourselves, but despiseth it and setteth it at nought, let such know that they shall be called to account before the judgment seat of God. And I Archbishop Athelard, with 12 Bishops and 23 Abbots, do confirm and ratify the same with the sign of the cross of Christ.”

797.

This year the Romans cut off Pope Leo’s tongue and put out his eyes, and drove him from his throne, but soon after, by the help of God, he could see and speak, and was Pope again as before. And Eanbald received a pall on the 6th of the ides of September. And Bishop Æthelberht died on the 3d of the calends of November.

798.

This year during Lent there was a great battle at Hweallæge in Northumberland (Whaley, Lancashire) on the 4th of the nones of April, and Alric the son of Heardberht was slain there, and many others with him.

799.

This year Archbishop Æthelard and Cynebryht Bishop of Wessex went to Rome. Bishop Alfun died at Sudbury, and was buried at Domuc (Dunwich), and Tidfrith was chosen after him. And Siric King of the East Saxons went to Rome. The same year the body of Wihtburh was found at Dereham, entire and unchanged, fifty-five years after she had departed this life.

800.

This year, on the 17th of the calends of February, the moon was eclipsed at the second hour of the night. And this year King Beorhtric and the Alderman Worr died. And Egbryht succeeded to the kingdom of Wessex. And the same day Æthelmund Alderman of the Hwiccas,[T] rode through the river at Cynemæres-ford (Kempsford?); then the Alderman Weoxtan, with the men of Wiltshire, met him, and there was a great battle, and both the Aldermen were slain, and the Wiltshire men gained the victory.

“Charles was made Emperor, and received the title of Augustus from the Romans: he condemned to death those who had maltreated Pope Leo, but at the request of the Pope, he afterwards granted them their lives, and sent them into banishment. Pope Leo consecrated him Emperor.”

802.

This year the moon was eclipsed at day-break on the 13th of the calends of January. And this year Beornmod was consecrated Bishop of Rochester.

803.

This year Higbald Bishop of Lindisfarne died on the 8th of the calends of July; and Egberht was consecrated in his place on the 3d of the ides of June. And this year Archbishop Æthelheard died in Kent, and Wulfred was consecrated Archbishop in his place. And the Abbot Forthred died.

804.

This year Archbishop Wulfred received a pall.

805.

This year died Cuthred King of Kent. The Abbess Ceolburh and the Alderman Heabyrhte died also.

806.

This year the moon was eclipsed on the calends of September; and Eardwulf King of Northumberland was driven from his kingdom; and Eanberht Bishop of Hexham died. The same year the sign of the cross appeared in the moon on a Wednesday, the 2d of the nones of June, before day-break. This year also a wonderful circle was seen around the sun on the 3d of the calends of September.

807.

This year the sun was eclipsed on the 17th of the calends of August, at the beginning of the 5th hour of the day.

810.

“Charles made peace with Nicephorus Emperor of Constantinople.”

812.

This year King Charles died, and he had reigned 45 years. And Archbishop Wulfred, and Wigbryht Bishop of Wessex, both went to Rome.

“Cireneius sends Ambassadors to Charles with peace. The Emperor Charles dies.”

813.

This year Archbishop Wulfred returned to his own bishoprick with the blessing of Pope Leo. And this year King Egbryht ravaged West Wales (Cornwall) from east to west.

814.

This year the noble and holy Pope Leo died, and Stephen succeeded him.

816.

This year Stephen died, and Paschal was consecrated Pope: and the same year the school of the English nation was burned.

819.

This year Cenwulf King of Mercia died, and Ceolwulf assumed the government. And the Alderman Eadbyrht died.

821.

This year Ceolwulf was deprived of his kingdom.

822.

This year two Aldermen, Burhelm and Muca, were slain. And there was a synod at Clofeshoo (either Cliff or Abingdon).

823.

This year there was a battle between the Welch and the men of Devon, at Gaful-ford (Camelford?). And the same year Egbryht King of Wessex and Beornwulf King of Mercia fought at Ellendune (Wilton), and Egbryht gained the victory, and there was great slaughter. From this expedition Egbryht sent his son Æthelwulf, and his Bishop Ealhstan, and his Alderman Wulfheard, with a large detachment into Kent, and they drove the King Balred northward across the Thames. And the men of Kent and of Surrey, and the South and East Saxons, came over to Egbryht, because they had been unjustly wrested from the rule of his kinsmen. And the same year the King of the East Angles and his people sought the alliance and protection of King Egbryht, for dread of the Mercians; and the same year the East Angles slew Beornwulf King of Mercia.

825.

This year Ludecan King of Mercia was slain, and his five Aldermen with him, and Wiglaf succeeded him.

827.

This year the moon was eclipsed on Christmas night: and the same year King Egbryht conquered the kingdom of Mercia, and all south of the Humber: he was the eighth king who was sovereign of Britain; Ella King of the South Saxons was the first who possessed this great dominion, Ceawlin King of Wessex was the next, the third was Æthelbryht King of Kent, the fourth Rædwald King of the East Angles, Edwin King of Northumberland was the fifth, Oswald who reigned after him the sixth, Oswio the brother of Oswald was the seventh, and the eighth was Egbryht King of Wessex. And this Egbryht led an army to Dore against the Northumbrians, and there they tendered him their submission and allegiance, whereupon they separated.

828.

This year Wiglaf[U] again obtained the kingdom of Mercia: and Bishop Æthelwald died: and the same year King Egbryht led an army against the men of North Wales, and reduced them to subjection.

829.

This year Archbishop Wulfred died, and the Abbot Feologild was chosen to the Archbishoprick on the 7th of the calends of May, and he was consecrated on a Sunday, the 5th of the ides of June, and he died on the 3d of the calends of September.

830.

This year Ceolnoth was chosen and consecrated Archbishop: and the Abbot Feologild died.

831.

This year Archbishop Ceolnoth received a pall.

832.

This year heathen men plundered Sheppey.

833.

This year King Egbryht fought with 35 pirate ships at Carrum (Charmouth), and the slaughter was great, and the Danes kept possession of the place of battle. And two Bishops, Hereferth and Wigen were killed, also two Aldermen, Dudda and Osmod.

835.

This year a large fleet of armed men came to the West Welch (inhabitants of Cornwall) and they united and made war upon Egbryht King of Wessex. When he heard this he marched against them with an army, and fought with them at Hengest-dune (Hengston-hill) and there he put to flight both the Welsh and the Danes.

836.

This year King Egbryht died. Before he was King, Offa King of Mercia and Borhtric King of Wessex had driven him out of England into France for three years, Beorhtric aiding Offa because he had his daughter for his Queen; and Egbryht afterwards returned again, and reigned 37 years and 7 months. And Æthelwulf the son of Egbryht succeeded to the kingdom of Wessex, and he (Egbryht?[V]) gave his son Æthelstan the kingdoms of Kent and Essex, and that of Surrey and Sussex.

837.

This year the Alderman Wulfheard fought with 33 pirate ships at Southampton, and there he made great slaughter, and gained the victory. And Wulfheard died this year. And the same year Duke Æthelhelm and the Dorset men fought with the Danish army in Port (Portland), and had the advantage for some time, but the Danes kept possession of the field of battle, and slew the Alderman.

838.

This year the Alderman Herebryht and many others with him were slain by the heathens, in the marshes (near Romne). And again, the same year, many were slain by this army in Lindsey, East Anglia, and Kent.

839.

This year there was great slaughter at London, Canterbury, and Rochester.

840.

This year King Æthelwulf fought at Carrum, (Charmouth) with the forces of 35 pirate ships, and the Danes kept possession of the field of battle. The Emperor Louis died.

845.

This year the Alderman Eanwulf with the men of Somerset, and Bishop Ealchstan, and the Alderman Osric with the Dorset men gave battle to the Danish army at the mouth of the Parret, and made great slaughter, and gained the victory.

851.

This year the Alderman Ceorl and the men of Devon fought with a heathen army at Wicganbeorch (Wembury, near Plymouth), and there they made great slaughter and won the victory. And the same year King Æthelstan and Duke Ealchere fought in ships, and slew a great number (of Danes), near Sandwich, in Kent, and they took nine ships, and put the rest to flight. Then the heathens first remained through the winter in Thanet. And the same year 350 ships came to the mouth of the Thames, and the men landed and stormed Canterbury and London, and put to flight Beorhtulf King of the Mercians and his army. And then they went southward over the Thames into Surrey, and King Æthelwulf and his son Æthelbald, with the West Saxon forces, fought with them at Aclea (Okeley), and there they made the greatest slaughter of these heathens that we have ever heard of unto this present day, and there they gained the victory.

852.

This year Ceolred Abbot of Medeshamstede and the monks let the land of Sempigaham (Sempringham) to Wulfred, on condition that it should return to the monastery after his death, and that Wulfred should give the land of Sliowaford (Sleaford) unto Medeshamstede, and that he should give every year to the monastery 60 fother of wood, and 12 fother of coals, and 6 fother of turf, and 2 tuns full of clear ale, and two slain oxen, and 600 loaves, and 10 measures of Welch ale, also a horse every year, and 30 shillings, and one night’s lodging. King Burhred, Archbishop Ceolred, the Bishops Tunberht, Ceured, Alhhim, and Berhtred, the Abbots Wihtred and Werhtherd, and the Aldermen Æthelheard and Hunberht, and many others were witnesses thereof.

853.

This year Burhred King of Mercia and his Witan entreated King Æthelwulf that he would assist them in bringing the North Welshmen into subjection, and he did so, for he marched with an army through Mercia into North Wales, and they all submitted to him. And the same year King Æthelwulf sent his son Alfred to Rome. Leo was then Pope, and he consecrated him as King, and took him for his Godson. The same year Ealhere with the men of Kent, and Huda with those of Surrey, fought with a heathen army in Thanet, and at first they were victorious, and many were there slain and drowned on either side, and both the Aldermen were killed. And Burhred King of Mercia married the daughter of Æthelwulf King of Wessex.

854.

This year the heathens first remained through the winter in Sheppey. And the same year King Æthelwulf made a grant of the tithe of his lands throughout all his kingdom, for the love of God and for his own soul’s eternal welfare. And this year he went to Rome with much pomp, and he abode there 12 months; then he journeyed homeward, and Charles King of France gave him his daughter named Leothete for his Queen; and after this he came to his people, and they rejoiced thereat. And in about 2 years from the time he came into France, he died, and his body lieth at Winchester; he reigned 18 years and a half. This Æthelwulf was the son of Egbyrht, Egbyrht of Ealhmund, Ealhmund of Eafa, Eafa of Eoppa, Eoppa of Ingild, Ingild was the brother of Ina King of Wessex, who held his kingdom 37 years, and afterwards went to St. Peter and ended his life at Rome: they were the sons of Cenred, Genred of Ceolwald, Ceolwald of Cutha, Cutha of Cuthwine, Cuthwine of Ceawlin, Ceawlin of Cynric, Cynric of Creoda, Creoda of Cerdic, Cerdic was the son of Elesa, Elesa of Esla, Esla of Gewis, Gewis of Wig, Wig of Freawine, Freawine of Frithugar, Frithugar of Brand, Brand of Bældæg, Bældæg of Woden, Woden of Frithuwald, Frithuwald of Freawine, Freawine of Frithuwulf, Frithuwulf of Finn, Finn of Godwulf, Godwulf of Geat, Geat of Tætwa, Tætwa of Beaw, Beaw of Sceldwea, Sceldwea of Heremod, Heremod of Itermon, Itermon of Hathra, Hathra of Hwala, Hwala of Bedwig, Bedwig of Sceaf, the son of Noah, who was born in the ark; Lamech, Methusalem, Enoch, Jared, Malalahed, Cainion, Enos, Seth, Adam primus homo et Pater noster, id est, Christus, Amen.—Then the two sons of Æthelwulf succeeded him, Æthelbald in the kingdom of Wessex, and Æthelbryht in the kingdoms of Kent, of Essex, and of Surrey and Sussex. Æthelbald reigned 5 years. Æthelwulf had sent his third son Alfred to Rome, and when the Pope heard that he was dead, he consecrated Alfred as King, and was godfather at his confirmation, even as his father Æthelwulf had desired when he sent him thither.

860.

This year King Æthelbald died, and his body lieth at Sherborn, and his brother Æthelbryht succeeded to all his kingdom, and he held it in goodly concord and great peacefulness. And in his days a large army landed and stormed Winchester, and the Alderman Osric with the men of Hampshire, and the Alderman Æthelwulf with the Berkshire men, fought with them and put them to flight, and kept possession of the field of battle. And this Æthelbryht reigned 5 years, and his body lieth at Sherborn.

861.

This year the Bishop St. Swithin died.

865.

This year the heathen army remained in Thanet, and made a treaty with the Kentishmen, who promised them money for peace. And under this treaty and promise of money, they stole out by night and plundered all the eastern parts of Kent.

866.

This year Æthered the brother of Æthelbyrht succeeded to the kingdom of Wessex. And the same year a great army of heathens came to England, and took up their winter quarters among the East Angles, and there they were supplied with horses, and the people made peace with them.

867.

This year the invading army went from East Anglia across the mouth of the Humber to York in Northumberland; and there was much discord amongst the people themselves there, for they had cast off their King Osbryht, and had taken Ælla, an alien, for their King. But late in the year the two parties joined, and both fought against the army; and they gathered together a great force, and came upon the invaders at York, and some of them broke into the town, and then there was a very great slaughter of the Northumbrians, some being slain within the town and some without, and both the Kings were killed, and those who survived made peace with the army. The same year died Bishop Ealchstan, he held the bishoprick of Sherborn 50 years, and his body lieth in that town.