King Olaf had now frequent conferences with his people, and asked advice
from them, and from his chiefs, as to what he should determine upon.
But there was no unanimity among them--some considering that unadvisable
which others considered highly serviceable; and there was much
indecision in their councils. King Canute had always spies in King
Olaf's army, who entered into conversation with many of his men,
offering them presents and favour on account of King Canute. Many
allowed themselves to be seduced, and gave promises of fidelity, and to
be King Canute's men, and bring the country into his hands if he came
to Norway. This was apparent, afterwards, of many who at first kept
it concealed. Some took at once money bribes, and others were promised
money afterwards; and a great many there were who had got great presents
of money from him before: for it may be said with truth of King Canute,
that every man who came to him, and who he thought had the spirit of a
man and would like his favour, got his hands full of gifts and money.
On this account he was very popular, although his generosity was
principally shown to foreigners, and was greatest the greater distance
they came from.