Book 2, Chapter 5, 878 AD to 901 AD – Alfred’s Fortifications
Alfred’s next care was to have a complete survey made to his kingdom, and particularly of the coast line, in order that suitable forts and castles might be erected for the protection of the weak and exposed quarters, and by the end of his reign had the satisfaction of completing more than fifty of these defences. Before his time, the walls of cities had been slight and almost useless in resisting an attack, but he took care that the line of defence should be such as brave men might safely maintain.
The number of these forts would have been much larger, but for the disgraceful spinelessness of many of his people, including some of the leading nobles, who neglected alike the exhortations and the example of the king, until, in after years, the attacks of the Danes compelled them, in self defence, to carry out his instructions. In not a few instances this was done too late. “When they had lost,” says Asser, “their fathers, their wives, their children, their servants, and all their property, they mourned bitterly for their folly, since they could neither restore their slain relations, nor redeem their friends from captivity, nor even provide themselves, who had escaped, with common subsistence. Sorely harassed, they repent, though too late, they grieve that they had carelessly despised the advice of the king, and praising the royal wisdom and foresight with all their voices, promise to fulfil at once what formerly they refused that is, to erect fortifications, and to carry out other arrangements necessary for the common good of the state.”
Chapter 5, Alfred’s Fortifications
Alfred’s Measures for the Defence of the Country
Fortifications
Chapter 5, Revolt in the Danelagh
Chapter 5, Alfred’s Educational Efforts
His care for Internal Prosperity of the Country
His Computation and Division of Time
Chapter 5, Alfred’s Industry and Zeal
Chapter 5, Saxon Laws
Alfred’s Watchfulness over the Executive
Chapter 5, Summary of Alfred’s Character
Categories: Book 2
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