Prince Aescwine is the son of Aethelswith, the King of Essex. He is here to discuss peace and tribute. He says that if we pay tribute to him now, he will guarantee peace for us and protection from any enemy who invades. He wants 100 cattle and 100 pounds of silver. He stresses that he does not demand our vassalage, though such an expression of loyalty would require less tribute and get us even more privileges.
Countess Ellen, after listening to her most trusted advisors, decides to pay the tribute to Prince Aescwine. His followers drive the cattle off towards home, and a heavily armed guard watches over the carts of treasure.
The countess requisitions cattle from her landholders.