34* HISTORY OF ENGLAND.

CHAP. had entirely lost their dignity, and could notiv. even hope to remain long in safety ; they deter-

1071. mined , though too late , to share the same fate

with their countrymen. While Edwin retired tohis estate in the north, with a view of commen-cing an insurrection , Morcar took shelter in theIsle of Ely with the brave Ilereward, who,secured by the inaccessible situation of the place,still defended himself against the Normans. Butthis attempt served only to accelerate the ruin orthe few English , who had hitherto been able topreserve their rank or fortune during the pastconvulsions. William employed all his endeavoursto subdue the I sic of Ely ; and having surroundedit with flat- bottomed boats , and made a causewaythrough the morasses to the extent of two miles,he obliged the rebels to surrender at discretion.Hereward alone forced his way, sword in hand,through the enemy ; and still continued hishostilities by sea against the Normans , till at lastWilliam, charmed with his bravery, receivedhim into favour, and restored him to his estate. EarlMorcar , and Egelwin , bishop of Durham , whohad joined the malecontents , were thrown intoprison, and the latter soon after died in confinement.Edwin , attempting to make his escape into.Scotland , was betrayed by some of his followers,and was killed by a party of Normans , to thegreat affliction of the English , and even to thatof William , who paid a tribute of generoustears to the memory of this gallant and beautifulyouth- Th.e king of Scotland , in hopes of