William and Harold discussing matters of relevance. Many meetings like this must have occurred. These men were a match for each other mentally and the exchanges must have been quite interesting to listen to. William would have tried to persuade Harold of his rightful claim to the English throne whilst Harold using all his political astuteness and guile would attempt to avoid this ultimate admission. William knew he had Wulfnot and Harkon as hostages and was in a strong position to force an oath of homage from Harold. The Godwins had always been anti Norman and must have realised that any submission or declaration of homage would ultimately harm Harold's chances of becoming the King of England on the death of Edward. Harold knew that he was a hostage in all but name, so he had to tread carefully at these meetings. Harold and William, it is said, became quite good friends and actually fought together. If Harold was ever to return to England, he would eventually have to make some oath of allegiance to William.