![Beornwulf, seeing all was over, determined not to die cooped up in
that shambles. He shouted to Ceolwulf to leap over the stockade,
and cut their way into the woods. It was a hopeless and desperate
venture, but Beornwulf had already escaped certain death once that
day, and he believed he could not die for the next twenty-four hours,
at least.[1] Behind them, inside, a fearful murder was going on;
before them was at least a chance of life, at any rate, no worse
death. Springing over the stockade, therefore, Ceolwulf and
Beornwulf, with four or five more, dropped down into the interval
between the raised stages that were crowded with the enemy
pressing up to take their part in the awful scene going on inside.
Armed and clothed like the other Wihtwaras, they were not
recognised as the very men the followers of Arwald had come to
slay, and they were able to push through the lines of assailants, who
thought they were only some of the numerous men who had got
pushed over the edge of the stages by the pressure from behind,
and were returning to take up their places on the stages again to
renew the assault, and some even jeered at them as clumsy fellows
who had had to make room for their betters, while others openly
laughed at them as cowards who were not sorry to get out of the
way of the enemy.
[1] It was a popular superstition, and is still, that if a man escaped imminent
death or had a man killed alongside of him, he could not be killed that day—vide
Prosper Mérimée, L'en lelvement de la Redoute.
Thou art right there, my friend, said Ceolwulf, who, being a
Wihtwara himself, ran no risk of his dialect betraying him. But it will](https://image.slidesharecdn.com/14170-250606091617-efb38012/85/eBook-PDF-Program-Management-2nd-Edition-24-320.jpg)
(eBook PDF) Program Management 2nd Edition
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- 6. Contents vii 10 Program Deployment (Capabilities Integration and Benefits Appraisal) 235 10.1 Capabilities Integration 235 10.2 Benefits Appraisal 241 10.3 Transition to Next Cycle 247 11 Program Closure 253 11.1 Value Realization Assessment 254 11.2 Manage Program Completion 255 11.3 Lessons Learned Finalization 259 11.4 Closing the Loop and Preparing the Next Challenge 261 Conclusion263 References265 Index275
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- 8. List of Figures 1.1 The program and its elements 18 1.2 The ambiguity-uncertainty context 21 1.3 Current program management context 23 2.1 Vertical and horizontal integration of strategies 35 2.2 Realizing business value 37 2.3 Traditional compartmentalized project organization 39 2.4 Value chain project organization 39 2.5 Agility in project organizations 44 3.1 Deliberate vs ad hoc programs 51 3.2 The program value chain 68 3.3 Maturity development process 76 4.1 The decision management cycle 84 4.2 The decision implementation process 87 4.3 Traditional control-based program governance structure 91 4.4 Integrated program governance structure 92 4.5 Integrated program governance structure 93 4.6 Tiered business case and governance process 95 4.7 Stakeholder engagement loop 97 4.8 Example of stakeholder map including contribution and expectations 97 4.9 Main program stakeholders 98 4.10 Area of change covered by program management 107 4.11 Benefits map/benefits breakdown structure concept 113 5.1 Leadership skills vs role 126 6.1 The program life cycle 142 6.2 Taxonomy of program life cycle 144 7.1 Programme definition flowchart 146 7.2 Stakeholder mapping techniques 151 7.3 The value concept 152 7.4 Example of benefits breakdown structure (BBS) 157 7.5 Example of paired comparison 160 7.6a Example strategic roadmap 164 7.6b Example strategic roadmap 165
- 9. Program Management x 7.7 Evolution of value through life cycle 166 7.8 Assess alignment (contribution to CSFs) 170 7.9 Assess achievability (outline level) 170 7.10 Combined alignment/achievability assessment 172 7.11 Two options for use of alignment/achievability matrix 173 8.1 RACI matrix based on accountability for CSFs 181 8.2 Example of alignment scoring with weighted matrix 185 8.3 Example of project achievability assessment 186 8.4 Example of partial blueprint based on BBS 190 8.5 Pacing the change 193 8.6 Pacing for ultimate achievement of benefits 194 8.7 Program strategic roadmap 196 8.8 Program detailed cycle roadmap 197 8.9 Example of program level qualitative risk analysis 199 8.10 Program change decision loops 201 9.1 Program deployment stage flowchart 210 9.2 Resource loading plan 218 9.3 Risk responses and risk packages 221 9.4 Graphical representation of buffer penetration 223 10.1 Deployment Level Benefits Register 245 10.2 Typical responses to deviation 249 11.1 Program closure flowchart 253
- 10. List of Tables 1.1 Classification of programs and projects: Legend 23 2.1 Detailed comparison between projects, programs and portfolios 32 3.1 Comparison of project and program knowledge areas 59 3.2 Distinction between program and project 71 5.1 Main program stakeholders and their roles 118 5.2 Specific responsibilities of main program actors 120 6.1 Comparison between standardized life cycles 136
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- 12. Preface I was brought up in Canada where I started my professional life as an architect; as such, I worked within a project environment from the beginning. Architects traditionally represent theirclients and are expected to act “in lieu” of the client in their relationship with the authorities (planning department, construction permit department, etc.) other professionals (engineers, urban planners, landscape architects, interior designers, etc.) and contractors (suppliers, building trades). So, as an architect, I have traditionally aimed to understand the needs and expectations of my clients and translate them as best as I could to achieve their dream home, corporate head office, marketable housing or office development, historical building restoration or landmark city-regeneration. Very early in my career, I realized that there was little integration between the different players in the field and that mostly, the client’s needs were not well understood, either because they were not able or willing to clarify them or because those that were supposed to fulfil them did not make the effort to work them out. After having worked in most areas of my profession, from urban planning to architectural programming, design, specifications writing and site supervising, I decided that it was time to integrate all this knowledge. So I opened myown practiceand started developing turnkey projects for myclients. This meant that I needed to understand the clients’ needs and expectations very well and be able to express them, not only in a drawing, but into and actual building. It also meant that I needed to work in harmony with all the actors of the project. After a few years, I joined a larger firm that shared this philosophy and became their Director of Development. That is when I started calling myself a Project Manager. It was during that time that we developed some techniques and methodologies that enabled us to be recognized for our expertise in fast- track construction. Many of these techniques were concurrently developed in IT/IS and are today known as “agile management”. As our expertise became recognized, we got to work on large multi-phased construction projects and, by still focusing on clients’ needs and expectations, started to developa reputation for pragmatic and effective long-term planning and development. Today, this type of expertise would be called Program Management.
- 13. Program Management xiv Since then, I have moved to the UK where I have worked as a trainer and consultant in program management and related disciplines for the last 20 years of which 15 as the founder and managing partner of Valense Ltd. an international network of consultants and trainers. As such, I have been traveling extensively and worked with organizations in Asia Pacific, the Gulf Region, North Africa, Turkey, Europe as well as North and South America. I have endeavoured to bring this worldwide expertise of program management at senior level into this book and hope it will appeal to a wide- ranging audience.
- 14. Acknowledgements This second edition of Program Management would not have been achievable without the people who have trusted me to apply my expertise to their programs. In the last 20 years, many of them have helped shape the methodology that forms the backbone of this book. Let me acknowledge among these, Malcolm Davis and Peter Czarnomski from Pfizer UK; Eric Miart from Eurocontrol, Brussels; Rod Gozzard from NAB, Melbourne; Anna Massot from Bayer, Germany; Sulaiman Mohammad Al Marzougi from Kuwait National Petroleum and Bader Salman Alsalman and Saud Hamed Alsharari from ELM, Riyadh. Following the publication of the first edition, I was privileged to be asked by the Project Management Institute to be a contributor to the Third Edition (2013)of theirStandard for Program Managementaswellasbeingsoughtbythe Project Management Association of Japan to review the English version of the Third Edition (2015) of P2M: A Guidebook of Program Project Management for Enterprise Innovation. This has enabled me to gain a broader perspective of the discipline and of its evolution. More specifically, I want to thank Alberto Brito from Brazil, Anne Boundford from the UK, Mustafa Dülgerler from Abu Dhabi, Rick Heaslip from the US, Bader Salman Alsalman from Saudi, Chris Stevens from Australia, who are all extremely busy but took the time to read the final draft of this second edition to provide their endorsement. Finally, I would particularly like to recognise the contribution of Motoh Shimitzu and Eric Norman. Motoh shared his thoughts in multiple face-to- face and virtual discussions about the difference of program management approaches in Japan and the Western world and enabled me to use some of his ideas and concepts in this book. Eric and I have had numerous challenging conversations on the purpose, philosophy and approach of program management; he took the time to review the whole final draft and almost all his comments made it into the final print.
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- 16. Reviews for Program Management Thiry’s revised landmark work embraces many important changes. He takes a broad and in-depth view of multiple professional standards, explaining pragmatically the essence of key focus areas, for executives, managers, and students alike, on how to lead, step- by-step, successful program outcomes. This is essential reading for those moving from narrow technical to broader leadership skills, critical to value-driven organisations under pressure to deliver better strategies through program management. Chris Stevens, Principal, Project Standards and Practice, NBN Co, Australia; member of PMI’s Standards Members Advisory Group Already a cornerstone in the library of important industry publications, the first edition of ProgramManagementbyDrMichelThirybrokenewgroundin2010byprovidingaclearly understandable and practical context for sifting through an assortment of conflicting and sometimes competing views about the application of program management in organizations. In many ways, the first edition was a catalyst for many of the advances in program management practice we recognize and enjoy today. This second edition reflects the deep understanding Dr Thiry has gained since the first publication through careful observation, critical thinking, and the art and science of hard-won experience. This latest update by one of the industry’s foremost thought leaders reveals an awareness of the critically important role program management now plays in organizations large and small for the delivery of key strategic benefits and real, measurable value in an increasingly complex, fast-paced, unpredictable and continually evolving (shall we say … “agile”) business environment. The second edition is destined to take its place as a frequently referenced, often quoted, dog-eared and battle-worn guide for the serious program manager. On my bookshelf, it stands next to its heavily marked-up and Post- It-littered brother, the first edition. If the second edition of Program Management by Dr Michel Thiry isn’t part of your library, it should be. Eric S. Norman, practising program manager; Chair of PMI’s ‘The Standard for Program Management Third Edition’ Core Committee Programs are characterized by complexities, ambiguities and consequently significant uncertainties. Each program management standard of North America, Europe and Japan has a different approach to overcome such difficulties based on each business cultural background. The author has made a thorough analysis of these diverse standards and
- 17. presents common and essential perspectives thanks to his long experience and deep insights on the subject. The book gives a big picture of program management rather than details of processes to provide a guiding principle for both researchers and expert practitioners. Motoh Shimizu, member, The Engineering Academy of Japan; Nippon Institute of Technology, Japan Michel’s book has created an important resource for researchers and practitioners in the program management domain. It brings up a clear and rational alignment between program components within an organizational context, which will help in executing the strategies and realizing real value. Anyone involved in program management will treasure this book! Bader Alsalman, PMO Manager, ELM company, Saudi Arabia Program Management provides new insights about the program manager’s critical role in managing organizational decision making and change. Michel Thiry’s perspectives on integrating the principles and practices of established program management standards and guides provide a valuable contribution to the fields of both program and project management. I found it to be full of valuable perspectives and contributions to the field, and have very much enjoyed reading it. Richard Heaslip, author of Managing Complex Projects and Programs; Adviser to executives sponsoring complex programs As a practitioner of programme management I live and breathe this world every day and Michel does a great job at structuring and bringing programme management to life in a constructive way. The book is very useful for me because it spans and links multiple standards. I work with people who come from a PRINCE2 background and it can relate to what they do. When in doubt or simply in need of inspiration this book provides you with ideas on how to move forward. Overall, a great book. Anne Boundford, PMP Programme Manager at Rolls Royce We all know the decision making process; but most of us are not familiar with decision management within the context of program management. This is one of the numerous gaps in the practical application of program management that Michel has addressed in his book, making it a must-read for program and project managers undertaking complex initiatives. Mustafa Dülgerler, Senior Enterprise Architect at National Bank of Abu Dhabi
- 18. This is a must read book! For strategy management scholars interested in the theme of strategy execution, as it brings state-of-the-art discussion on the importance and use of program management as a vehicle for implementing strategic changes; for senior executives, as it provides the guidelines to establish the organization and governance structure to achieve strategic goals; for program managers and program team members, as it provides a roadmap to manage programs, through a concise program life cycle and a set of management tools for each stage of the proposed life cycle. Finally, it is not a book based on current standards, but a book that the review of program management standards will be based on. Alberto S. Brito, Founder and Managing Partner at CDA Tecnologia Reviews of previous edition Well organized with the ending of one chapter leading into the next. Very informative on the subject matter, supported by references and tables … Prize: ‘Award of Merit’ 2010, Canadian Project Management Book Awards, run by the Project Management Association of Canada I believe Program Management addresses a significant gap in program management literature. Thiry ties many years of research and findings from Value Management to Project Based Organization and relates it to Program Management. He explores utilization of Program management in a multi-faceted approach, from organizational aspects to benefit management, from program lifecycle to deployment of a strategy as a program, from measurement to dissolution of the program. Program Management provides an excellent bridge between PM theory and practical ways to reach organizational goals using program management. This is truly brilliant! Deniz A. Johnson, PMP, Vice President, Program Management, Acadian Asset Management LLC, Boston If you are interested in improving your delivery capability and effectiveness then Program Management should be on your must read list. In my 15 years of project and program management experience I have yet to find a book which has addressed the subject from such a global perspective. Chris Richards, PMP, Assistant Director Business Operations, US-Based Technology Services Company
- 19. Program Management describes the practical considerations often overlooked when translating ideas into real, value generating programs. The model marrying Programs to Strategic Decision Management (Chapter 3) is alone worth the book. Ron Sklaver, Enterprise Program Manager, Tate Lyle, US-UK Thiry provides an excellent example of his Benefit Breakdown Structure (BBS), showing benefits at Level 1, followed by critical success factors, specific actions, and deliverables. It is further detailed…with actions describing the current state and the proposed future state, plus capabilities and dates required to achieve them. He presents an achievability matrix for projects within the program and a discussion of risk packages. A program manager could take the BBS plus these concepts and relate it to the program work breakdown structure and have a powerful technique to apply. Project Management Journal I would recommend that program managers who want a simple and useful guide to get hold of a copy of the book and keep it handy. Organizations should place a copy of the book in their library along with books on strategy and strategy implementation. For academics teaching a course in program management it would be a good as a textbook or as a reference book from which relevant readings can be suggested to students. Associate Professor Shankar Sankaran University of Technology, Sydney for PPPM eJournal I would recommend this book and have in fact used it at work to help clarify governance issues and solutions with colleagues. Definitely a book to add to your library. ProjectManager.com, Australia This is an informative book full of useful illustrations providing visual interpretations of the text … The book is well structured into three parts: the programme content, the programme components and the programme lifecycle, with a very useful conclusions section at the end. This structure made it easy to go forward and backwards without losing the thread. Although aimed at larger organisations, this book will prove valuable for any project of programme manager. Quality World Magazine, September 2012 I consult and teach in this area and welcome this book as a very useful contribution on the topic … It is certainly the best book I have read on the specific subject of Program Management, and represents considerable research, reflections on experience and new thinking on a current prominent subject. Harold Ainsworth on Amazon.com
- 20. Introduction Purpose of this Book According to a number of recent surveys, executing strategies to realize value is one of the failures of today’s management and optimizing the use of resources to achieve this is even more of an issue. Programs, by definition, constitute the missing link between the executive level strategy and the projects and operations that will enable it to deliver value. Program management concerns the harmonized management of a number of projects and other actions that will generate competitive advantage. The purpose of this book is to make executives, managers, students or academics understand the issues that arise from the practice of Program Management and be able to, not only perform it, but also implement it sustainably in their organizations. Strategic managers often lack the time, specific expertise, technical skills and/or means to make theirstrategies concrete to deliver the expected benefits. Project managers lack the proficiency and/or capability to understand or question strategic language and are often not aware of expected benefits. Operational managers understand the benefits they need, but often find it difficult to express them in strategic terms or understand the implications of their implementation. After more than 40 years of working for organizations of all sizes and more than 20 years of worldwide management consultancy practice in a wide range of industries, I have come to realize that many organizations still don’t understand how to integrate their business practices. This is especially true of the end-to-end process necessary to implement strategic decisions, realize benefits and, ultimately, create value; especially in a turbulent environment that requires constant realignment and agility. The program management methodology described in this book will provide executives with the means to achieve their objectives and increase their organization’s competitive edge, it will provide sponsors with a clear method for defining outcomes and benefits and mastering their delivery and finally users will have the assurance that their needs will be fulfilled, as much as is possible within the stated parameters. This book is meant to represent a wide view of program management practiceand notbetied toanyparticularstandard. Although I favourtechniques
- 21. Another Random Scribd Document with Unrelated Content
- 22. the old, in the way most likely to benefit both, and all were ready for the final death struggle. Few words were spoken on either side, while the placing of the logs outside went on rapidly. The thickest trees were first rolled up and then the ends of the next set of logs were placed on these, crosswise, with the other end on the ground; and in this way a rough, sloping, approach was made up to the stockade. Where one set of trees was not enough another log was rolled up on the cross ones, which were at right angles to the palisade, and these were wedged up so as to make them more secure. The stockade was approached by about twenty different sloping stages on all sides, but as they did not touch each other, there were intervening spaces which were not open to attack, thus the defenders were able to concentrate all their efforts on the spots which were most threatened. Arwald, seeing that all the preparations were now completed, gave the signal for the assault to begin. With a shout of defiance and anticipated victory the Wihtwaras threw themselves upon the stages and rushed to the attack. Axes gleamed on all sides, and crowds of men pressed close behind each other. The front ranks tried to clamber over the palisade, and were sternly met by the desperate defenders. Such of the enemy as tried to get over, lost hands or arms from the quick blows of the watchful adherents of Ælfhere, and all the horrors of previous assaults were repeated over again with the same dreadful monotony. There was the same desperate valour in assailing, as in defending, and victory inclined to neither side decidedly as yet. But it was clear that the defence could not last long. Already many of Ceolwulf's party had received terrible wounds, although none had been killed outright; but they had
- 23. inflicted much loss on their foe, who had hitherto failed to effect an entrance. But there was no cessation of the assault; as fast as the front rank succumbed there were others to take their places, pressing with furious ardour to annihilate the little band inside, for all Arwald's followers knew of the invasion with which they were threatened, and were keenly alive to the importance of sweeping away these few antagonists first. Ceolwulf looked anxiously at the sky. The sun had just set, and the breeze came cool and keen from the north-east. Could there be any chance of their holding out another hour? He thought not. Never mind, he kept saying to himself, I have done all that could be done, all my lords are safe; and, anyway, I should not live for many more years. Better die now than live to be old and useless. But, he added, savagely chopping at a sturdy Wihtwara, who was boldly putting his leg over the stockade, thou shalt not send me to Nifleheim, young man, and the luckless foeman fell back with a leg the less, to bleed to death outside the stockade; but there were many more to take his place, and weary work it was fighting against time, and hope, and terrible odds. Arwald had given orders to break down the palisade that led to the spring, and a desperate fight was taking place here. The Wihtwaras had broken in, and were pushing back the defenders, but the narrow way got blocked with wounded and dead, and the assailants paused a moment to clear away the bodies which impeded them. Ceolwulf, seeing the lull, shouted to his men to leave the passage and pile up some logs that were inside, so as to close the entrance, but it was too late. The enemy dashed in, and a hand- to-hand fight took place in the narrow space inside the stockade.
- 24. Beornwulf, seeing all was over, determined not to die cooped up in that shambles. He shouted to Ceolwulf to leap over the stockade, and cut their way into the woods. It was a hopeless and desperate venture, but Beornwulf had already escaped certain death once that day, and he believed he could not die for the next twenty-four hours, at least.[1] Behind them, inside, a fearful murder was going on; before them was at least a chance of life, at any rate, no worse death. Springing over the stockade, therefore, Ceolwulf and Beornwulf, with four or five more, dropped down into the interval between the raised stages that were crowded with the enemy pressing up to take their part in the awful scene going on inside. Armed and clothed like the other Wihtwaras, they were not recognised as the very men the followers of Arwald had come to slay, and they were able to push through the lines of assailants, who thought they were only some of the numerous men who had got pushed over the edge of the stages by the pressure from behind, and were returning to take up their places on the stages again to renew the assault, and some even jeered at them as clumsy fellows who had had to make room for their betters, while others openly laughed at them as cowards who were not sorry to get out of the way of the enemy. [1] It was a popular superstition, and is still, that if a man escaped imminent death or had a man killed alongside of him, he could not be killed that day—vide Prosper Mérimée, L'en lelvement de la Redoute. Thou art right there, my friend, said Ceolwulf, who, being a Wihtwara himself, ran no risk of his dialect betraying him. But it will
- 25. want someone to bury yon men, and so I intend stopping behind. Dost thou, though, my shirking knave, cried Arwald, who had taken no part in the assault himself, but waited outside to watch the attack, and encourage, or reprimand, his men. Do thou go back at once, and don't let me—— Ah! By Woden, but thou art a bigger scoundrel—— He did not finish his sentence, for Beornwulf and Biggun made a rush for him, overjoyed at the opportunity of revenging all their wrongs on the chieftain himself. CHAPTER XXI. LET US DIE IN HONOUR; ONCE MORE BACK AGAIN. Arwald, seeing the determined rush made upon him by Beornwulf and Biggun, reined in his horse, swung it round, and, striking his heels into the animal's side, caused it to leap past the two desperate men. As Arwald did so, he called out to the men nearest him to fall upon the traitors, for so at first he took them to be; but, seeing the woods before them, neither Beornwulf nor Biggun waited to have another attempt at Arwald. The instinct of life urged them on, and they dashed into the woods unmolested. There's some death the Norns are keeping for that knave, said Ceolwulf, as soon as he and Beornwulf found themselves at a sufficient distance to relax their speed. He has always escaped hitherto, but let him look out, his time has nearly come now. Are we going right for the shore?
- 26. It's not far off, and Cædwalla ought to have reached it by now; but, hist! who's coming this way? They crouched down. A few horsemen and footmen were approaching through the wood, evidently guiding their course by the sounds that proceeded from the stockade, where the work of death was very nearly over. The troop now drawing near might be the advanced guard of their deliverers. This was almost too good to be hoped for; or it might be some of the raiders of Arwald's party; anyway, Beornwulf and Biggun had better lie still. As the first horseman came up he was saying to the nearest footman who was walking by his side that they ought to make more haste or they would get none of the booty; and, besides, the news they had to bring was very important. I wish I knew what that news was, muttered Ceolwulf. Why, what have they got hanging down over the horses shoulders in front of him? said Beornwulf whose sight was keener than his old companion's. It's a body, I do believe, and the body of a boy, too. Ceolwulf peered out between the dry leaves, and the next moment, without a second's reflection, flung himself out of the bushes, and rushed with a wild cry of rage straight at the horseman, oversetting the nearest footman in his rush. With one hand he seized the bridle of the horse, and with the other he struck the rider a tremendous blow on the arm, and before the man, taken utterly by surprise, could strike a blow in his own defence, Ceolwulf struck him again, and this time with a deep groan the man fell heavily from the saddle and dropped to the ground.
- 27. Beornwulf seeing the danger his old comrade was in rushed out after him, and began laying about him manfully, but the odds were against them; however, Biggun with great presence of mind jumped into the saddle, from which he had just ousted the owner, and, turning the horse's head, galloped back towards where they had come from, shouting to Beornwulf to follow him. The attention of the men was taken up in trying to stop Ceolwulf, or it would have gone hardly with the West Saxon; as it was, he was enabled to dash back into the wood again, and so escaped the notice of the enemy. Ceolwulf urged his horse at the utmost to escape from his pursuers, but the horse was heavily weighted with the double burden; however, for the first few minutes it managed to increase the slight start obtained by the unexpected rapidity of Ceolwulf's movements; gradually, however, it became clear to Ceolwulf that he must be captured, in spite all his efforts, and he did not know what to do. The reason of this desperate onslaught was that he saw there hanging over the horse's shoulders his young lord Wulfstan; whether he were dead or not he could not tell, but he hoped, as they were taking the trouble to bring him into camp, that he was still alive, and on the wild hope of rescuing him, old Biggun had staked his life; and now, after all, with help so near at hand, it seemed as though both must lose their lives. Beornwulf, the old man shouted, catch this horse when I get off it, and ride like the wind towards yonder copse, but no answer came, and Ceolwulf felt it was all over with both of them. Still he urged on the horse, every stride was bringing them nearer safety, but the horsemen behind were close upon him. Ceolwulf turned round, there was only one man quite close, and he was some
- 28. distance from the others. Could not he manage to disable this man? The Wihtwara gradually drew nearer, his axe was uplifted, the weapon seemed over Ceolwulf's head, crash it came down, and with it the Wihtwara rolling on the ground, the blow had missed Ceolwulf, but what had knocked the man down? Ceolwulf had struck no blow, he was far too intent in pressing on his horse, and for the moment concluded the man's horse had stumbled on the rough ground; it was not until afterwards that he learnt how he had been saved. Without pausing a moment, Biggun rode steadily on; the fallen horseman caused the rest of the pursuers to stop where he fell, and one of them dismounting, went up to the man; turning the body over, he found that one eye was knocked out, and that the man was dead. Whether this was the result of the fall or not could not be told; but the man remounted his horse, and they then gave up the chase and returned to Arwald. Meanwhile Ceolwulf continued his course towards the shore. The evening was changing into night; as he emerged from a dense part of the wood he suddenly came upon a brilliant blaze of light, and knew that his orders had been carried out. Riding up to the fire he found a crowd of boys assembled round it, and he was not long in learning the news. Cædwalla was within a mile of the land, and might disembark in less than half an hour. But why did not Arwald come down to meet him? He might do so yet; in any case, Ceolwulf could not longer delay attending to his young lord. Tenderly the boyish figure was lifted off the horse, and gently he was laid down by the fire. He lay quite still, only blood welled up in a deep cut on his head, and all could see that he was desperately wounded.
- 29. Oh! my young master! cried Ceolwulf, Why could not I have received this instead of thee? How shall I meet my lord Ælfhere? Ah! Biggun, thou art a dolt and a dotard to have allowed him to go from thee. And then he enquired of the boys around how it had happened. Several of the boys had seen it all, but could do nothing to save their young lord; at least so they said, but Ceolwulf would not believe them, and heaped maledictions on them for their cowardice and want of devotion to their lord. It appeared that Wulfstan, while running away, saw one of his companions fall, and the noble boy knowing that he would be killed, stopped and fitted a stone to the sling preparatory to casting it at the first man of the enemy who should approach the disabled boy. While he was doing this and was totally careless of his own safety, a Wihtwara on horseback, the same whom Ceolwulf had killed, broke through the bushes behind Wulfstan and fetching him a blow with his axe knocked him down, and then dismounting, put him on his horse as Ceolwulf had found him. If ye boys had had a quarter of your young lord's pluck ye would never have let him be hurt, much less taken. Could none of ye have tried to save the boy who fell, instead of letting your young lord do it? And could none of ye have got in the way of the knave who gave him this wound? Ah! I am ashamed of ye all! Ye are a set of cowardly do-nothings; and what a chance ye have let slip; it doesn't happen to a boy every day; no, nor once in a year in these more peaceful times—it's true we have had a little more life lately— (by which Ceolwulf meant death)—for a boy, I say, to have the good luck to get killed for his lord, and here with this chance before ye,
- 30. not one of ye had the sense or the gratitude to take it. Ugh! get along with ye all for a pack of skulking foxes. The upbraidings of Ceolwulf caused many of the boys to hang their heads, and several reproached themselves for not having got killed instead of Wulfstan. However, there was no help for it now, and all stood round looking at the pale and noble features of the senseless boy. His fair hair fell back round his face in waving locks, his eyes were shut, and the pallor of his cheeks, usually so full of colour and health, was very ominous. Ceolwulf raised his head on his knee and bandaged the cut as well as he could, telling the boys to get him some salt water from the sea. Shall I go and find old Deva and the bald-headed man? suggested one of the boys. Ay, my son, that's the best thing thou canst do, and the sooner thou bringest them the better, for we shall have work enough to occupy us all soon. Which of ye knows the way? I do, and I do, resounded from all sides, and Ceolwulf chose the sharpest-looking of the lads, and sent off three of them, telling them to inform Malachi, or the bald-headed one, of what had happened, but on no account to alarm Ælfhere, the eorldoman. Away the boys darted, and were soon lost in the darkness. Ceolwulf continued to bathe the wound, watching anxiously for some return of consciousness; but the heavy lids remained shut, and the breathing seemed to grow weaker. Ah! Wulfstan, my dear young lord, hadst thou only stayed at Boseham with Ædric all would have been well. To think of the fights I have been through and my life worth nothing, and this boy, the joy of his father, and born to be an eorl and Heretoga, if ever there was
- 31. one, to die before he is twelve years old! and old Ceolwulf groaned bitterly. How beautiful the lad is! he went on. Surely neither Baldur, nor Woden, nor Thor, could have looked handsomer; but Baldur died. Ah! yes, beauty is what death loves, and so Baldur died young. While Ceolwulf was thus mourning over Wulfstan he forgot all about surrounding objects, and was suddenly startled into consciousness of this world and the present by a boy running up to him and saying, breathlessly: Master Biggun, here's some boats come ashore at yonder point, and there's a sight of people getting out. Why, whatever am I doing? I'm forgetting everything. Here, one of ye boys, run down and show the people the best way up; ask them, for some one will show thee—no, that won't do. Tell the first man thou seest that old Ceolwulf, who fought at Cissanceaster along with Cædwalla, is here, and wants help. Now, off with thee; what art thou waiting for? But, maybe, they mayn't be friends; how do I know they won't hurt me? By Thor's hammer but what are we coming to? These boys daren't get killed for their lord, and now they are frightened of their own friends! Get along with thee directly, and do what thou art told, or it will be the worse for thee. The boy went off not much reassured, and intending fully to disobey Ceolwulf as soon as he got out of sight; but he had scarcely gone three steps into the darkness when he felt his arm seized, and a deep voice in a very different dialect to his own, but still such as he could understand well enough, say:
- 32. Not so fast, youngster; tell us who they are round this fire, and why it is lighted? Paralysed with terror, the boy could not answer for a moment, but seeing the gleam of sharp steel as his captor held up a long knife before him, he called out: Oh, don't kill me! I was sent by old Ceolwulf, who did something somewhere, to find somebody—I can't remember who— and there he is sitting by the fire; and if thou wert to kill me I couldn't tell thee any more, indeed I couldn't, so please don't do it. Recognizing the truth of the last statement, the man put his knife away, and called to some men behind. These now came up, and the boy saw a large body of tall, powerful, well-armed men, most of them in the prime of life. Among them he noticed a magnificent man, taller than any of the others, and with a helmet surmounted by a golden dragon. The light of the fire flashed upon his close-fitting shirt of mail, on his sword and battle-axe, and shone in his bright, clear eyes. Did I hear the name of Ceolwulf? he asked, eagerly. Where is the fine old man? Lead me at once to him, my boy; no harm shall happen to thee if thou wilt tell the truth and do what thou art told. The boy pointed to where Ceolwulf was sitting, hidden by the fire being between them, and the dragon-crested warrior, closely followed by a younger figure, hastened to greet him. The next moment a cry of joy and grief rang out as the younger figure, in spite of his lameness, outran the chieftain. Oh! Wulfy, my dear brother Wulf, to think I should find thee like this; and Ædric knelt down by Ceolwulf and burst into tears, sobbing bitterly as he took his brother's hand in his.
- 33. What! Ceolwulf, my fine youth, said Cædwalla. This is a bad business; the brave little lad is not dead, is he? Let me look at him. So saying, the kind-hearted king bent down and took the other limp hand, while he listened for his breathing. After a minute he rose and said, He's not dead, but he wants attention; have ye no women near who can look after him? I have sent, my lord, for help, and it ought soon to be here, answered Ceolwulf, sadly. Well, I can't be of any use, and I won't take thee away from the boy. While the rest of my men are coming ashore—By the way, broke off Cædwalla, see that the boats are taken to a place of safety for the night. Thou canst send some of thy people to help us in this, canst thou not? he added, turning to Ceolwulf. Our people are all slain, replied Biggun sadly. What! no one left? Has it gone so hardly with thee as all that? There are none but women and children and feeble old men. All our bravest youth died with Wulf the Atheling, or were killed in cold blood by Arwald, or were slaughtered but now on yonder hill. Where are Athelhune, and Osborn, and Beornwulf, and the three that came with my brother Wulf? All are dead for ought I know. Athelhune perished, slain by Arwald; Beornwulf may have escaped. Osborn and the others died an hour or so ago, on yonder hill. Cædwalla's handsome features had gradually assumed a fierce expression; a wild, stern light shone in his eyes, and a tightening of his hand over his axe told of the storm within. By Woden's beard, he burst forth, by all the joys of Valhalla, I swear to avenge their blood! Not unhonoured shall they be in the
- 34. abodes above, or wherever the soul of man goeth. Before I leave this island, I vow to kill all of the race of Arwald that cometh in my way, be it man or woman or sucking child; for not in fair fight were they slain. Oh! Athelhune, my comrade, my right hand, my more than friend, why was I not here to save thee? But I am here to avenge thee, and right well shalt thou be avenged. Is this a time to talk of vengeance? said a voice near Cædwalla. Rather humble thyself before the strong hand of the Almighty, and give Him thanks that thou art yet in the land of the living, when so many souls have gone unregenerate, unbaptised, to their last account. Man, swear not such awful curses. There may come a time when they will recoil on thine own head. Who is this that dares to rebuke Cædwalla? said the king haughtily. A poor servant of the Lord—one Malachi, of Boseham. Ædric had turned joyfully at the voice, and felt new hope for his brother. Oh! brother Malachi, come here; see what has happened to Wulfstan. What! Ædric, my son; hast thou come to this sinful and blood- guilty land? And how are Father Dicoll and brother Corman? Verily my heart yearns for news of them. Oh, Malachi, I will tell thee all about them while thou art looking at Wulfstan; but do tell me if he is alive? Malachi stooped down—he had brought some balsam with him, and a few remedies—and he gently examined the wounded boy. With a very grave face he signed to Ceolwulf to let him feel his
- 35. pulse, and then said, Canst thou make a shelter for him here? it will be better to keep him quite quiet if we can. Ceolwulf nodded assent, and Cædwalla directed some of the sails of the boats to be brought up, and a shelter was soon made. Deva will be here soon, said Malachi. She has got some food with her. We will make some strong broth for him. Cædwalla, seeing that the boy was in good hands, called Ceolwulf aside, and consulted on what was best to be done. After he had heard the old man's ideas, he gave orders that all the men he had brought with him should encamp where they were till morning, as now the stockade was lost there was no need to risk an advance through the thick woods in the dark. It was clearly ascertained that the women and children and old people belonging to Ælfhere were safe, so there was no occasion to weary the men with a march immediately after their voyage. All through the night Malachi, in spite of his wounded arm, attended ceaselessly on Wulfstan. Ædric had intended keeping awake, but the sea voyage, the excitement, and the novelty of using his leg, had made him very sleepy, and in spite of himself he fell off into a sound sleep. Ceolwulf had been so busy helping Cædwalla that he had not had time to tell Ædric of his father being still alive, and Malachi had not thought of it; in fact, the critical condition of Wulfstan put all other ideas out of their heads. Wulfstan had opened his eyes once, but there was no consciousness in them, and a burning patch of red in each cheek had taken the place of the ghastly pallor of a few hours before. With dawn, Cædwalla was up; he had brought sufficient food for his men for a couple of days, and therefore was not compelled to
- 36. action from necessity; and, besides, there were all the supplies of Ælfhere's people hidden among the woods; but Cædwalla was nevertheless burning to come to blows with Arwald, and the order was given for all to advance directly breakfast was over. The number of men Cædwalla had brought was over a thousand, and their equipment and appearance left little to be desired. There had been a difficulty in bringing over any horses, but there were five or six brought over for Cædwalla, and his chief eorldomen, and Ceolwulf had despatched during the night some of the boys to bring over as many of Ælfhere's horses as they could. He himself had the horse he had captured from the Wihtwara he had killed, when he rescued Wulfstan the evening before. My old friend, said Cædwalla, when all was ready, I must ask thee to ride along with us, and show us the way. I know thou wantest to be with thy young lord, but he is in careful hands, and we cannot get on without thee yet. I promise thee rest enough after we have established our right to rule the Wihtwaras. Ceolwulf had not thought of being left behind, and was flattered at this public notice of himself before so many warriors, and many of them the chief eorldomen of Wessex. All being now ready, the advance began. Cædwalla had far too much experience of war to be led into any trap as Arwald had been. He sent on a powerful advance guard under the guidance of Ceolwulf, and the keenest and most experienced of his men were ordered to march at some little distance on each flank. In this way, although their progress was slow, their security against any surprise was certain. They had not proceeded far, when the leading footmen came across the body of a man lying on a bank. Turning him over, Ceolwulf found it was
- 37. Beornwulf, and he was delighted to find that he was only asleep from exhaustion. He at once had him sent into the camp, and directed that every care should be taken of him. Cædwalla was much pleased to see his old follower again, and promised he would not forget him. The little army advanced to the stockade without any further interruption. Here a dreadful sight presented itself. Arwald had abandoned the place, evidently feeling it necessary to retire to his own district, and call up all the fighting men of the island for the decisive battle that must take place; for he was not the man to allow himself to be killed without a fight. The scene inside the stockade was awful. Accustomed as Cædwalla and his men were to fearful sights, they had never seen so terrific a spectacle as was here, crowded into the narrow limits of that gory enclosure. Ceolwulf noted with grim satisfaction that many of Arwald's men had died; he found Osborn under a pile of slain, and many of Ælfhere's old servants had died hard. Cædwalla made use of the ghastly spectacle to arouse his men to fiercer ardour, and then ordered the column to advance. When they emerged on the black and charred common, and the successful stratagem was explained by Ceolwulf to Cædwalla, the king was loud in his praises of the pluck, determination, and skill of the little band of defenders, and vowed that in all his experience he had never heard of or seen a better executed ambush. He was especially struck with the readiness and sagacity of the boys. As they advanced Cædwalla admired the fertility of the island, and the suitability of their choice in retiring into Binbrygge-ea. Crossing the ford, Ceolwulf pointed out the ruined Roman villa among the bushes, and told how
- 38. nobly Athelhune had defended it against the attack of Arwald's people, and showed Cædwalla where the homestead was. The king declined to visit it now, but sent on a party to find Athelhune's remains, and have them decently laid out, with a view to burying him, as became a West Saxon eorldoman and faithful adherent of his. As they advanced farther into the island, and the country became more open, Cædwalla directed Ceolwulf to take a force along the ridge of the downs that separated the north side of the island from the south, while he, with one of Ælfhere's old servants to act as guide, marched parallel to Ceolwulf, along the valley to the south. Every precaution was taken, and strict injunctions were given that each column was to halt if the other were attacked. Touch was kept up between the flanking and main column by a light band of active young men. In this way the army got as far as where Arreton now is without coming in contact with the enemy. Here Cædwalla gave orders that the two columns should halt, and have their mid- day meal. He himself rode up to the top of the hill and joined Ceolwulf, who pointed out to him, from this natural observatory, all the objects within sight. At his feet the land sloped away towards the north in a gradual descent to the Solent, clothed in dense oak woods, through which meandered three narrow openings of the sea. The one towards the north-west was the most important, and looked a noble inlet as it lay gleaming like silver far down below, embowered in dense oak forest. The creek more to the north-east seemed very narrow at the entrance, but widened out into a splendid sheet of water as it penetrated farther inland. The dense virgin forest surrounded the glassy surface, and there was no trace
- 39. of life anywhere. Between these two creeks lay a third much smaller one, whose existence was only faintly indicated by a dip in the woods. Towards the east Cædwalla looked over woods, only bounded by the sea, and beyond the sea the coast of the South Saxons, and his own native forests and hills. The view south was more lovely even: at his feet the wide and fertile valley spread out to the magnificent bay, bounded on one side by the gleaming white cliffs of Binbrygge Down, and on the other the dun-coloured headland that rose into the noble down behind it, while toward the south-west hill upon hill, and ridge upon ridge, culminated in the highest hill of all—the broad-backed St. Catherine Down. The valley at his feet was hidden, towards the west, by the continuation of the ridge of downs upon which Cædwalla was standing, but Ceolwulf told him it wound round and passed into another valley, or valleys, which then turned westwards and northwards. This northern valley became the deeply indented creek near the head of which stood the only fortress in the island, the burg or castle of Wihtgar, known as Wihtgaresbyryg. Will Arwald make a stand there, thinkest thou? asked Cædwalla. I doubt whether he will not fight in the open first. He has a powerful following with him, and he is not one to fight behind walls if he has any chance of crushing us in the open. Cædwalla laughed. He need not talk much of crushing. There won't be much left of him or his men if once I catch them in the open. Aye, no doubt thou art a doughty and powerful king, but Arwald will have as many or more than we have, and the Wihtwaras
- 40. fight well. Tush, man! have I ever lost a battle yet? said Cædwalla, disdainfully; and then he added, Continue thy march until we unite in the valley in front of Wihtgaresbyryg; we may have to encamp there to-night. So saying, the West Saxon king rode down the hill again, and led his column along the lower ground. The march was continued without further interruption until about two o'clock. They turned the northern line of Downs, and saw the ridge of the lower hills to the west, on the brow of which loomed up the grey walls of a circular castle—the rude and unscientific fortress of Wihtgar, built perhaps upon the foundations of a Roman castellum, and doubtless with much of the material. Hitherto it had been an accepted fact that whoever was lord of Wihtgaresbyryg was lord also of the Wihtwaras and the Wihtea. When Ceolwulf's column, descending the steep declivity of the down now known as St. George's Down, joined Cædwalla and the main body below, they advanced together along the lower ground towards Wihtgaresbyryg, until they reached the ford over the marshes, that then formed the head of the long creek now known as the Medina. Here Cædwalla, having secured the ford and passed his troops safely across, halted until he could find out where the enemy were. In the course of an hour one of his scouts brought back word that Arwald was marching out of Wihtgaresbyryg to give him battle, with a numerous and well-appointed force of horsemen and foot, and would be upon them in the course of half an hour or so. This was joyful news to Cædwalla. His eyes sparkled and his figure became more upright, as he gave orders for his men to fall
- 41. into battle order, and prepare for the decisive contest. Remember Athelhune and Osborn, and the stockade on Yavershute! Remember all your former victories—Edilwalch and the South Saxons, and the eorldoman Berchthune. The dragon of Wessex is spreading his wings for victory. Before night-fall, my eorls and my free Saxons, let us plant the standard of our nation on the tower of Wihtgar. Lands and possessions shall reward the victors, and ye all see what a smiling and fertile land it is. Standard bearer, advance the banner! My nobles, handle your weapons, and, O God of Battles, whom Wilfrid serves! if victory crowns our arms, I vow to become a servant of Thine. Let Woden and Thor fight for Arwald. Cædwalla will fight with the help of Christ. CHAPTER XXII. NOW, BY MY FAITH, LORDS, 'TWAS A GLORIOUS DAY. Cædwalla decided not to await the enemy, but to advance at once to meet him. He himself led the van, which was composed of his choicest troops, and he ordered old Ceolwulf to keep with him, as a mark of especial honour. The scout who had brought the news of Arwald's advance acted as guide, and in a short time the two rival forces came in sight of each other. Cædwalla saw that Arwald would have the advantage of position if he were allowed to attack from the higher ground where he was. He therefore ordered his men not to march directly for the enemy, but to leave them on their left and march as if with the intention of getting in between them and
- 42. Wihtgaresbyryg. By this manoeuvre Arwald had to descend from his superior position, and the onus of attacking remained with him. In those rude times there was not much attempt at marshalling the fighting men. The leaders brought their men on to the ground and put them as near to each other as possible, and then stout arm and keen steel had to decide the rest. Each chieftain acted as the bravest soldier, and his duty was to run the greatest risk. In the present instance, there seemed a sort of tacit deferring of the awful struggle that must take place. When Cædwalla had obtained the equality of position he wanted, he halted, and drew up his men in a semblance of martial array; and in this respect he had a manifest advantage over his antagonist, for he and his men were well known to each other. Many of the West Saxon eorls had fought in numberless fights on the borders of Wales, and against Wulfhere of Mercia, the son of Penda. They were, therefore, used to discipline, and were likely to keep cool in the hottest of the fray; while Arwald's men had never seen a set battle, and many of them had scarcely ever fought before. But their numbers and strength seemed quite to counterbalance this disadvantage, and Cædwalla saw at a glance the Wihtwaras were not to be despised. Arwald had wrought his men's courage up to a desperate pitch by telling them that Cædwalla would deprive them of all their possessions, and, unless they won the battle, no man's life or property was safe. Cædwalla's eyes sparkled with excitement, but he was otherwise very calm, and no observer would have known that he was inwardly burning with eagerness to begin the battle, and avenge the death of his dearest friend. He rode along in front of his men, mounted on his white horse, cheerily saying an encouraging word
- 43. here, or passing a light jest there, and congratulating everyone on the immediate prospect of realizing all their hopes. The forces of Arwald had now approached to within two hundred yards, and the combatants could see each other well. There was nothing between them, and the battle might begin at any moment. Cædwalla had turned his horse's head towards the enemy, and was quietly glancing along their line. In front of him was Arwald, looking more brutal than ever. The cut over his eye, which he had received from Wulfstan's sling, was swollen and inflamed, so much so that one eye was nearly obscured. His red, bloated face, and coarse features, combined with his huge and corpulent person, mounted on a powerful, vicious-looking black horse, offered a striking contrast to the refined, intellectual, determined face of Cædwalla. bronzed with exposure, and looking a splendid, dashing soldier, as well as prudent, clear-headed king: a perfect type of the old Heretoga, or leader in war, chosen by the free acclamations of his fellow tribesmen for his brilliant qualities, and not necessarily because of any hereditary claim; the pure type of an earthly ruler, if only such could be elected without corruption and for worthy motives. Cædwalla sat his horse tranquilly, and critically scanned Arwald with a contemptuous glance that made that fat chieftain furious. He was just going to give the order to his men to charge, when Cædwalla raised his battle-axe, and instantly the whole of the West Saxon army rushed straight for the Wihtwaras. For the next few minutes there was the awful work of destruction, hideous sounds and confused sights, axes flashing,
- 44. arms rising and falling, passionate shouts, groans, and wild cries. In the midst of the battle could be seen the golden dragon of Wessex, and ever and anon the clear, ringing stentorian voice of the king, cheerily and happily cleaving a way through the struggling mass. Such battles must have been all alike, and the monotony of the death fight could seldom be relieved. The victory must go to the side who had most last, or endurance, in it; for the idea of running away while strength remained scarcely could occur to men taught from earliest childhood that no fate in this world or the next could await any man worse than the fate of the coward. But sheer brutal strength, or capacity for fighting with the largest number of wounds, must then, as now, have been very materially modified by the moral influences of will and determination. And in this way the personal qualities of a leader were certain to affect his followers. The energy, moral as well as physical, of Cædwalla, infused itself into his men, and each man fought with a certainty of winning. Gradually the coherent mass of striking, thrusting, wrestling humanity gave way, and the scene became changed into groups of individual combatants. The battlefield was strewn with dead and dying. Cædwalla's standard bearer was down, but the banner was still waved above the foremost ranks, and the golden crest of Wessex was foremost in the fight. Arwald's army was being pushed back, no man looked to see where, but as the foe retreated Cædwalla pressed on. The Wihtwaras were thrust away from Wihtgaresbyryg, and were slowly retiring towards the high hills behind them. Fighting every foot of
- 45. ground at first, they gradually hastened their retreat until at last it became a rout. All round deeds of derring-do were being performed, and Cædwalla cheered his men on to the pursuit with words of praise and encouragement. The king was followed by the main part of his army, and pressed hard upon the retreating Wihtwaras. Unless we kill Arwald, we have done nought, shouted Cædwalla, urging on his horse to fresh exertions. They had now reached the foot of the down, whose ample slope rose from the valley in wooded clumps up to a height of some five hundred and fifty feet above them. Pursued and pursuers were alike becoming exhausted. Arwald and the few that were left of his personal following kept on their way up the hill. Cædwalla's horse, which had received several severe wounds, was clearly incapable of following much further, and the king got off, resolving to follow on foot. Arwald still bestrode his black horse, but that powerful animal was fast becoming distressed. Seeing that he could not escape from his pursuers, Arwald, who had now reached a grassy knoll, drew up and turned to look at his enemy. Below him he could see the golden dragon and the broad shoulders of the West Saxon king, the centre of a little band of determined warriors, among whom the weather-beaten face of old Ceolwulf looked hard set and enduring, like a grey lichen-covered rock amid the saplings of the forest. By the golden hair of Freya, muttered Arwald but they shall die as well as we, if die we must. Here, my men, we will wait them; and let each man fight as he never fought before.
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