The History of England, from the Invasion of Julius C Sar to the Revolution in 1688. in Eight Volumes (Volume 1)

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1807. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... CHAP. III. Ethelred--Settlement of the Normans--Edmund Ironside--Canute--Harold Harefdot --Hardicanute-- Edward the Confessor--Harold. ETHELRED. C P nr DEGREESHE freedom which England had so long enX joyed from the depredations of the Danes, 978. seems to have proceeded, partly from the establishments which that piratical nation had obtained in the north of France, and which employed all their superfluous hands to people and maintain them; partly from the vigour and warlike spirit of a long race of English princes, who preserved the kingdom in a posture of defence by sea and land, and either prevented or repelled every attempt of the invaders. But a new generation of men being now sprung up in the northern regions, who could no longer disburthen themselves on Normandy; the English had reason to dread that the Danes would again visit an island to which they were invited, both by the memory of their past successes, and by the expectation of assistance from their countrymen, who, though long established in the kingdom, were not yet thoroughly incorporated with the natives, nor had entirely forgotten their inveterate habits of war and depredation. And as the reigning prince was a minor, and even when he attained to man's estate, never discovered either courage or capacity sufficient to govern his own subjects, much less to repel a formidable enemy, the people might justly apprehend the worst calamities from so dangerous a crisis. The Danes, before they durst attempt any important enterprise against England, made an inconsiderable siderable descent by way of trial; and having landed Chap. from seven vessels near Southampton, they ravaged DEGREES DEGREESJ DEGREES/ the country, enriched themselves by spoil, and de- 98i. parted with impunity. Six years after, they made a like a