They took rich gifts from Octa, that was Hengist's son, and from Ossa,
his cousin, and delivering them out of their bonds, let them go free
from their dungeon. Octa and Ossa returned swiftly to their own place.
They purchased war galleys to themselves, and gathering their men
about them menaced Uther very grievously. With a great company
of knights, and spearmen, and archers they passed the marches of
Scotland, burning and spoiling all the realm. Since Uther was sick,
and could do little to defend his life and land, he called Lot, the
husband of his daughter, to his aid. To this lord he committed the
guidance of his host, and appointed him constable of his knights. He
commanded these that they should hearken Lot as himself, and observe
all his biddings. This Uther did because he knew Lot for a courteous
and liberal lord, cunning in counsel, and mighty with the spear.
Now Octa vexed the Britons very sorely. He boasted himself greatly, by
reason of the number of his folk, and of the kings weakness. To avenge
his father's death and his own wrongs, he made Britain fearful of his
name; for he neither granted truce nor kept faith. Lot met Octa once
and again in battle. Many a time he vanquished his foe, but often
enough the victory remained with Octa.
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