Dear Mr. Cornwell,

First thanks for this magnificent sight with so many questions answered.  Second glad to see Sword of Kings will be out just in time for  Christmas.

About Uhtred carrying and using long a long sword.  I have read or watched on line a lot of discussion about using a back scabbard.  I am sure that you wrote a sequence about the reasons for Uhtred having a long and a short sword and the reason for using a back scabbard.  As I recall Uhtred used the short sword in close quarters and shield walls.  I believe Uhtred describes carrying the long sword at the waist as usual when in towns or castles but across the back when riding.  The long sword itself being useful for combat while riding (not exactly cavalry) and against individuals or small groups.  Also carrying both swords on the back in combat so that either could be drawn during the press of battle.

Could you please tell me where this sequence is in your books and any references you might be able to provide which lead you to give Uhtred manner of using arms.

Separately I have noticed that rubbings or pictures of knights and lords buried with their swords often show the person being buried holding their sword in front of them with two hands (rather like the Academy Awards Oscar statue).  In early and medieval England could this be a lingering belief in Odin?

Thank you,

Peter Brickwood