Stephen's position had depended on his ability to offer security and leadership. But the anarchy of the long years of civil war had undone all that. According to the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, England's people felt abandoned by God. Saying that while they suffered, Christ and his saints slept. And so, in the face of dwindling support, Stephen was forced to agree a compromise. He would remain as King but at a ceremony, here in Winchester, Stephen recognised Henry as his successor.