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