 ... the king rode out to hunt the stag in Mendip Forest . He became separated from his attendants and followed a stag at great speed in the direction of the Cheddar cliffs . The stag rushed blindly over the precipice and was followed by the hounds . <unk> endeavoured vainly to stop his horse ; then , seeing death to be imminent , he remembered his harsh treatment of St Dunstan and promised to make amends if his life was spared . At that moment his horse was stopped on the very edge of the cliff . Giving thanks to God , he returned forthwith to his palace , called for St. Dunstan and bade him follow , then rode straight to Glastonbury . Entering the church , the king first knelt in prayer before the altar , then , taking St. Dunstan by the hand , he gave him the kiss of peace , led him to the abbot 's throne and , seating him thereon , promised him all assistance in restoring Divine worship and regular observance . 
