Read this expert from a commentary on the venerable bede, which appears in an introductory chapter of a translation of bedes an ecclesiastical history of the English people

1. In whatever way we may regard these anecdotes, there can be no doubt that Bede took the utmost pains to assure himself of their importance.

2. He is careful to acquire, if possible, first-hand evidence; where this cannot be obtained, he scrupulously mentions the lack of it. He admits only the testimony of witnesses of high character and generally quotes them by name.