Despite his pessimistic reflections on love and hope, Asculf rode through the Canterbury gates with an equal measure of both sentiments in his breast. He knew the Vikings were on the rampage on his estates but hoped that they had not reached as far as Cobham. Surely, the Norsemen would have no interest in fruit trees? Baldhart’s small amount of livestock was another matter: his goat, swine and geese would attract hungry warriors. The other emotion, love, he reserved for his family but he could understand Leogard’s feelings. Even now, he could sense the man’s desperation at not being allowed to gallop ahead. Asculf insisted on caution. His small band of horsemen would be no match for a marauding Viking crew.
They followed the left bank of the Medway until they smelt smoke in the air. Proce
