Chapter XXIII

THE SIEGE OF EXETER:--During William's absence in Normandy, the
Norman barons treat the Saxons with great cruelty--Saxon leagues
are formed--William, receiving notice of the state of affairs in
England, returns home--He ingratiates himself with the chiefs
and the populace--William proceeds westward--Is opposed at
Exeter--He attacks the town--Desperate resistance of the
besieged--Exeter is taken--Somerset and Gloucester
subjugated--Escape of Githa, Harold's mother--Bad treatment of
the Saxon women