# XXVI: They Bring the Baron Into Eastcheaping explained — The Sundering Flood

> Chapter companion for The Sundering Flood by William Morris.

## What happens

Osberne, Stephen, and four others, along with Steelhead, infiltrate the Great Bastide by disguising themselves and using Stephen's minstrel guise to gain entry. They capture the Baron of Deepdale while he sleeps, using Steelhead's mysterious power to keep him in a sleepwalking state, and successfully bring him back into Eastcheaping. Steelhead then departs, promising to meet Osberne again in the mountains.

## Themes in this chapter

### Heroism and Growth

Osberne demonstrates strategic leadership and bravery in the successful capture of the Baron, marking his growth as a warrior and leader.

### Community and Kinship

The cooperation between Osberne, Stephen, Steelhead, and the townsmen highlights the bonds of kinship and mutual support in their shared cause.

## Character check-ins

### Osberne Wulfgrimsson

Leads the infiltration and capture of the Baron of Deepdale, showing his growing prowess and courage.

### Stephen the Eater

Uses his minstrel disguise and cunning to gain entry to the Bastide and assist in the capture.

### Steelhead

Joins the mission, uses his mysterious power to keep the Baron in a sleepwalking state, and later departs with a promise to meet Osberne again.

### The Baron of Deepdale

Captured while sleeping and brought into Eastcheaping by Osberne and his companions.

## Key lines

> Osberne and the four were clad, over their armour, in frocks and hoods of upcountry fashion; but Stephen was in his minstrel’s raiment, save that he bore no fiddle, and had a heavy short-sword girt to him under his cotehardy.

Osberne and his men wore simple country clothes over their armor, while Stephen dressed as a minstrel but carried a short sword hidden under his coat.

_Describes the disguises used for the infiltration._

> Steelhead took Osberne by the skirt and drew him a little aside and said: 'Lad of Wethermel, in all ways thou hast shown thy valiance, and I am glad of thee.'

Steelhead pulled Osberne aside and praised his bravery, expressing pride in him.

_Steelhead acknowledges Osberne's courage before departing._

## Links

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