Note 1135 — Chapter IX · THE REIGN OF EADWARD FROM THE RETURN OF GODWINE TO THE DEATH OF EADWARD THE ÆTHELING.[921] 1052–1057. (continued 2)

Vita Eadw. 409. “At Dux Tostinus et ipse gravi quidem et sapienti continentiâ, sed acrior paullisper in persequendâ malitiâ, virili præditus et indissolubili mentis constantiâ.” In a writer who is striving hard to make out a case for Tostig, the words in Italics mean a great deal. We shall see, as we go on, reason to justify infinitely stronger expressions; but the point is that Tostig was not a mere wanton oppressor, but a ruler who carried a severe justice to such a degree as to become injustice. This is the impression conveyed by the no doubt flattering, but still very carefully drawn, portrait given by the Biographer.