During the somewhat tedious recovery of Harold, and his subsequent irresolution, both parties had been engaged in active hostilities, unaccompanied by any decisive result. The battle of Edgehill had been fought with doubtful success, and the intervals of action were occupied by negociations in which, it is believed neither party was sincere. Mutual propositions for peace were made and declined under various pretences, and it had become evident to those who looked beneath the surface, that the contest could only be decided by the sword. Accordingly, both parties braced themselves for the final issue.