\ IV, 4-735 \ =: ^^ o \ = C/5 ^■^ — I D = = 33 J ^^= O^ 3> 3> 1 — ^ ^^^ -H 2 — mnii is ii^^i 3«15? THE LIBRARY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES WIDDRINGTON, A TALE OF HEDGLEY MOOR. IN TWO CANTOS, "PRODIT BELLUM, QUOD PUGNAT UTHOQUE, AH MA." Ovid. Met. Lib. I. SAKGUIKEAaUE MANU CEEPITANTIA CONCUTIT ARMA." By JAMES HALL, * ALNWICK: ' , ..■.'.>;" 5;.' ,'i ' PRINTED BY J. GRAHAM, FENKLG-STREET. 1827. Hi 4,^! ADVERTISEMENT. The following Poem is commemorative of a Battle which, though highly honourable to the name of Percy, is yet but slightly men- tioned by Historians. Indeed, few particulars are handed down to posterity, respecting the fight ; and scarcely any of those tradi- tionary niceties, always acceptable to popular feelings, and to a poetical taste, are now extant. Such is the havoc made by the keen-edged scythe of Time! The days of Chivalry are gone by; the proudest of its Champions are sunk into oblivion ; and the martial feats of Heroes are fading fast from memory, save where they are preserved in the rude ballads of ancient Bards. Perhaps we might add, that the recollection of former valour, or military virtues, is somewhat more distinctly, or at least more durably im- pressed on the mind of the passing stranger, by the rude unlettered fabric of some mighty Cairn, or by the simple and unassuming figure of a Cross. A time-worn and rude-sculptured Cross, then, is all that marks the Spot, whei-e, in 1463, Sir Ralph Percy, with the Lords Hungerford and Ross, encountered Edwai-d of York's Forces, under the command of Lord Montacute, on Hedgley Moor. Although the fortune of the day was against the cause of Lancaster, and fatal to the noble Percy, and his illustrious band of Northumbrians, yet his and their honour was untarnished ; for, in the true spirit of that chivalrous virtue, which they devotedly cherished, each preferred a death-couch on Hedgley Moor, " with his back to the field, and his feet to the foe," as a modern elegant Poet has beautifully expressed it, to a dastard and ignoble flight. The author has, therefore, endeavoured to celebrate, in simple 53^^*-' ' ADVERTISEMENT. strains, all that is now known of that disastrous event ; and, al- though the barrenness of materials was an obstacle which greatly impeded the attempt, yet he has taken the liberty to interweave it with some other traditionary Story, once popular in the County. This, though it is visionary, is not hostile to the spirit of the times described ; and, therefore, its being connected with the chief ob- ject of the Song, will not detract from the Historical account of the Battle of Hedgley Moor. • CONTENTS. CANTO I. PAGE Introduction ------- i The Hunters ------- 2 The Nuptials ------ 9 The Prophecy - - - - - - IS Song of the Minstrel ----- 19 The Enchantment ------ 23 The True Knight 27 The Broken Spell 33 The Herald 39 CANTO II. Introduction -------47 The Muster 50 The Duel 57 The Battle 65 * WIDDRINGTON, A TALE OF HEDGLEY MOOR. CANTO I. WIDDRINGTON, A TALE. INTRODUCTION. The Hermit had his beads told o'er. And gray-rob'd night her mantle spread ; The soft stream swept its sedgy shore, And Cheviot's far-seen form had fled. No sound disturb'd the upland fell. Save, when the sheep-bell's tinkling sound Crept slowly from the neighbouring dell, And whisper'd to the rocks around. B 2 The moon half veil'd her silver form. Whilst deeper shades each star supprest ; Seem'd there a calm before a storm. As slumbering nature sank to rest. And silent lay yon Archer train, Well known, in warrior-days of yore ; We'll sing of it, in martial strain. And tell a Tale of Hedgley Moor. THE HUNTERS The Huntsman, as the morning broke. Sprang from his couch on ferny fell. And with his bugle strains awoke The sleeping Deer, in Rosedon dell Ten thousand echoes peel'd around, And shook dark Roddam's Woods amain ; Lilburn's deep glens the blasts resound. For oft they heard the hunting strain. And many a bratch and hound, that morn, Frisk'd gaily o'er the benty lea ; And aye they lov'd to hear the horn, The Huntsman peeVd so lustily. Keen glanc'd each many hunter's eye, And loud the halloos rent the air. When bounding swift, as shaft can fly, The Fallow sprung, and left his lair. Straight for the Cheviot's ample Chase, The startl'd Antler urg'd his speed ; The deep-mouth'd hounds his rout did trace, And forward prest, the foaming steed. 4 And still the whoop stole on his ear, And still the bugle notes he heard Make rocks and woods sing in his rear, As Langley-ford's dark pass he near'd. The foremost Chief, that led the chase. Was but a youth, of aspect fair. Manhood just blushing in his face, Whilst in soft ringlets wav'd his hair. And well his fiery steed he rein'd. And steady in his selle* sat he. As over rock and brook, he strain'd. And urg'd the hounds, so fearlessly. Hubert De Widdrington his name. Of line illustrious and renown'd ; Search ye the chronicles of Fame, Where will again his match be found ? * A word used by ancient authors. It means a saddle. 'Twas He who did with Percy ride, At Cheviot Fight, where Douglas fell; Who dyed in grim Montgomery's side His cloth-yard shaft, as legends tell. And ere the setting sun beam clos'd The scenes of that eventful Day, This gallant Chief the foe oppos'd, Altho' his Limbs were " shred away." Enough of this. — Young Hubert's shout Rang briskly, as the dogs he cheer'd, And hearten'd on the merry rout, As rock, stream, fence, and fen, they clear'd. Before them Cheviot's Forest rose Array'd in oaks, of sombre shade. Inviting them to seek repose, Where tinkling fell, some soft cascade. 6 Yet not a horseman drew his rein, Nor lagg"d a blood-hound in the chase. And onward did the Fallow strain To find some thicket's shelt'ring place. But Sportsman keen, and Stag-hound true. Soon, soon, thy weary course is o'er, « Time is a game, that will subdue The nimblest foot, the strongest power. The hard-prest Antler fails in speed. No thicket gain'd, he stands at bay. Repelling Hubert's gallant breed, And giving victory doubtful sway. But gentles, if Wood-craft you know, Then, ye may see the Fallow slain ; 'Twas Hubert's whinyard laid him low. And stretch'd him lifeless on the plain. And 'tis his bugle, that you hear Awake bleak Cheviot's mountain side ; And 'tis his bold and portly cheer In the full swell of Huntsman's pride. * " Here halt we, Gallants free," he said, " We'll breathe our steeds, and take good cheer ; *' 'Tis sweet to dine in forest glade, " And sweet to drink the streamlet clear." " And sweet to hear the wild cascade " Rush briskly down the shaggy steep ; " To see its white foam sweep the glade, " Where birches wave and willows weep." * Lina madent, comites, ferrumque cruore ferarum ; Fortunaque dies habuit satis. Altera lucem Cum croceis invecta rotis Aurora reducet; Propositum repetemus opus. Ovid. s *' And sweet it is, at star-light pale, " The shelt'ring hazel-shaw to seek, " Whose tangl'd screen wards off the gale, " When mountain eddies whistle bleak." Now soon the woodfire blazes bright. Nor lack they to partake good cheer ; Now soon fatigue and cares take flight In draughts of sack,* both strong and clear. And soon each gallant Archer's eye Is slumbering seal'd, in greenwood shade ; Beneath some leafy canopy. Each merry Huntsman's form is laid. The steed turn'd loose upon the lea. In peace now crops the herbage green ; The hounds crouch at their master's knee. And silence rules the Forest scene. * A favourite beverage with Sir John Falstaff. * 9 Yet there was one, whose watchful eye Forbore to quench its flash, in sleep ; For schemes across his soul would fly, Of enterprises, dark and deep. THE NUPTIALS. Beyond a neighbouring mountain high Arose a Castle, huge and strong ; Its lofty turrets swept the sky. Its flanking walls were broad and long. But long forsaken were its halls ; No more they heard the Harper's glee ; No festive mirth now shook its walls In the full swell of Minstrelsy. c 10 No more the Warder pac'd along, And whistl'd to the moonlight pale, Or chanted o'er some Border song Of « Riding Men," from Tiviotdale. And silent was the hunter's voice. That call'd the sportsmen to the field. Till portals echo'd with the noise. As smartly from its courts they wheel'd. And hush'd the murmurs of the Hound, That challeng'd stranger's foot afar. Or track'd the dun Deer's lair profound In tangl'd brake, by mountain scaur.* And it was reft of Beauty's grace. Shone sweetly on its Lady fair ; The brightest jewel of the place Enchanted lay, in dark vault there. * Shattered face of a hill> 11 Enchanted ! Yes ! for. Reader know, A Wizard Lord this Castle claim'd ; And village peasants yet can shew What Towers he by his magic fram'd. But to our Song. — This Chieftain grim, To love sweet Eva Raymond deign'd ; Opposing suitors fought with him. But aye his sword the victory gain'd. Yet Eva, luckless maid was she. For him no kind return could feel : Ye rai.r, how cold that love must be That's purchas'd but by sword of steel ! Her father storm'd, and sternly said, " If you still scorn brave Heaton's claim, " I pledge me, on this naked blade, " You'll feel my anger's fiercest flame ! 12 " I will not make this Knight my foe, " For an untoward daughters whim ; " You shall be his, — prepare to go, — " This hour, I'll hear the Bridal Hymn." Ah ! how this Lady's eyes did weep, And listless was her bosom's swell ; May you ne'er feel the anguish deep — Such as my Muse would shrink to tell. We'll pass the Bridal moments o'er, To mark how Evening crept along, — And list to the convivial roar. Rung loudly out, as Nuptial Song. Th' inspiring cup flow'd briskly round ; Deep drank each Knight and Vassal there,- And loud the merry Minstrel's sound Peel'd thro' the Hall, in martial air. 13 They sung, how Heaton to the north Led fifty Bowmen, tried and keen ; Their Chieftain priz'd and knew their worth, For they in many a broil had been. Adown by Millfield Plain they sped, And hid them closely in the broom, Couch'd there, in secret ambuscade. They saw the Tiviot-Forayers come. The Sheriff brought the Douglas out, Who Jeddart Staffs* and lances bore ; A hundred Scots compos'd the rout, All stalworth men from Tiviot shore. Now, not a zephyr whispers there. Nor stirs a fern-leaf, that the eye Can not discern the secret snare Where Heaton and his Bowmen lie. * A species of battle axe. 14 The Scots the line of March had crest. Gray Copeland Tower they deem'd their prize ; And high in air their spears they tost, And loud their slogan rent the skies. The startl'd inmates heard the clang, As Tiviot spears their gate assail ; — And loud their battle axes rang ; — The portal's gain'd, they flee, they fail !" «( u Up Gallants, now upon their rear," Lord Heaton cry'd, " w^e'll tame their pride," And many a stubborn Border spear " Shall ne'er again see Tiviot side." Then forward with his Band he sprung, Upon the Scottish rear to close ; Swift thro' the gate their arrows rung ; " Draw out your swords, fling bye your bows." 15 (t ts And press, my Nobles, on their spears, " They're useless in a vaulted Hall, Un'vailing in the narrow stairs, « Tho' handl'd by these Warriors tall." Surpriz'd the stubborn Scots appear'd. When Heaton did their rear assail ; Yet still they fought, and still they cheer'd. Like gallant sons of Tiviotdale ! The banquet Hall, where Minstrels play*d, To other music echoes round ; And blow and thrust, from spear and blade. Deal many a deep and ghastly wound. Fire, " fire the lower wards," — the flame Ascending rose both fierce and bright ; And thick the smoke in dense clouds came Around the Warriors, as they fight. 16 As thus the darkness fills each ward, Within a low and narrow room The murd'rous tug of death is heard, The weapons sparkle thro' the gloom. But now the blows to silence fall, And dying groans steal on the ear; And many a noble Warrior tall Lies bleeding on his broken spear. And Tiviot's gentle stream may weep Her gallant Sheriff, rudely slain ; For Lowland Hall, and Border Keep, Ne'er shall the Douglas storm again. Fly, fly they must, and broken now, The Tower's regain'd — their Chieftain slain,- These Tiviot-Spearmen long will rue Their Foray to the Millfield Plain. 17 Thus sung the Minstrel of his Lord, And loud applauses shook the walls ; Joy beam'd on all that grac'd the board, And floated briskly thro' the Halls. But human mirth, and courtly glee, Are flowers that quickly fade away ; And nuptial joy, and ecstacy, Are beams that dazzle and decay. And beauty's bloom, and manhood's grace. Feel time's corrosive power too soon ; They flourish, but how short the space Allotted 'tween their mom and noon ! D IS THE PROPHECY. Gentles, again the Harp's shrill sound Awakes the Halls with other strains ; And brisker now the cup flows round. While care flings off' his broken chains. 'Twas Duncan's Harp, of powerful string. Which oft bade Cheviot's echoes wake. When of the Childy Wynd he'd sing, Of Spindelstone, and Ida's Snake. For of quaint Gramarye and Spell, That ancient Minstrel lov'd to play; And Legendary Tales to tell. Of Wizard, Elf, and mountain Fae. 19 The Cheviot-Bard to Heaton low'd. The gloomiest soul of all the train ; Then, in a voice both strong and loud. He join'd the Harp's prophetic strain. THE SONG OF THE MINSTREL. " The mountain Eagle's wing is spread, " He, proudly riding on the gale, " Turns to the sun his eye and head, " As if he scorn'd this lower vale." " But, stoop he must, his flight is flow'n, — « No more his eyry he'll regain ; « Nor from his roost's high peak look down, « With tyrant glance, upon the plain. (( 20 Forth-coming scenes," the Minstrel said, " Present them to my certain view ; And strange events I see display 'd, And, Chieftain ! they relate to you." it " 'Tis seven long years, since to thy hand " Sage Michael gave a charmed sword ; *' And bow strings, made of sifted-sand, " Far tougher than the silken cord." " No arrow keen, or weighty spear, " Can pierce or dint thy elfin mail ; " No truncheon cleave thy helmet clear ; " No axe against thy shield prevail." " Thy Bugle is a Fairy's gift, " And louder than the thunder's roar ; " Thy Blood-hounds are both good and swift, " And prompt to rouse the Stag or Boar." t 21 " Thy power no Wizard e'er possest, " Tho' skill'd in charms of mystic dye ; " Those Towers, that long have stood the blast, ** Were raised by thy Gramarye." " Such matchless skill soon spread afar, " And potent Chieftains fear'd thy arm ; ** What valour, in a Feudal War, " Could stand thy Bow, and Sword of Charm ?" " In " Fai7'y-la7id" for three long years, " You led a life of mirth and glee ; " Where nought could meet your ravish'd ears, " But flights of Elfin Minstrelsy." ** Where nought could meet your feasted eye, " But Mab, with all her courtly train ! " And feats of Elfin Chivalry, " Where you an aerial nymph did gain," 22 ** My Lord, you plighted her a vow, " No earthly Maid thy heart should share ; " That's broken — you'll have cause to rue ! — " The consequence I must declare." " Your warlock power is reft and torn, " Your Sword of Charm no more you'll wield ; " Nor shall the woods ring with your Horn, " Nor Blood-hounds frisk in hunting field." " You must return to Fairy-land, " For broken pledges to atone ; " And yield to Mab's vindictive wand, — " She calls ! she claims thee as her own." (( . 57 And now, his Trumpets flourish brave, His white Rose banner streams on high ; And Chieftains* pennons freely wave, The Percy's prowess to defy. THE DUEL. We said the Percies* kept the hill, Some trifling distance from the foe ; All silent there they stood, and still. With Arrow resting on each Bow. An awful pause it was, when lo ! A gallant Warrior rode amain From Neville's ranks, towards the foe, Then drew his fiery charger's rein. * Meaning the Northumbrians under the command of Sir Ralph Percy. I 58 And from his hand, with haughty pride^^ His polish'd glove of steel he drew ; And proffer'd there, a tilt to ride, Then down the glove of steel he threw ; Couch'd his good Spear into its rest. And, like a Champion prov'd and tried. He stood of Percy's Lines abreast. And all Northumbria's host defied. " A bootless boast !" that Land of Fame Had matchless prov'd, in " doughty deeds," For mighty Chiefs of birth and name, Whose temper'd Swords could clear their head»» Short space had past, when down the hill. Upon a fleet and gallant grey, A Knight spurr'd on, with right good will. And thus unto the foe did say, — • 59 *^ Sir Knight ! tho' on a Battle field, " Nice Tourney feats are set aside ; *^ I'll hang thy gauntlet on my shield, " And proffer now a tilt to ride !" " On either side, no Spear must move, " Nor Bowman touch his twanging string, " Till you and I our manhood prove, — " You for proud York, I for my King !" Then wheel'd the steeds, more ground to gain, And each drew back to either force ; The space between, a heathery plain. Gave ample room for charger's course. Lord Montacute his Bugle blew. The signal for the bold career ; With light'ning's speed the coursers flew. Each Champion couch'd his trusty Spear. 60 With forward rush, like thunder-stroke. The mighty Chiefs came sweeping on ; They met — their repercussion shook The distant lofty Hurl Stone. To shivers flew each ashen Spear, Each warrior roU'd upon the heath. Each charger reel'd, in death pang drear. Then fell, his rider underneath. But John of Hilton, rose again, A Knight was he from banks of Wear ; Tho* bruis'd indeed, his charger slain. And broken now his trusty Spear. But yet, his English heart was true ; For English hearts are void of fear ; His Sword of steel he bravely drew. And, to renew the fight, came near. 61 De Widdrington as eager came, The Sword of Fairy charm he bore ; A brand well known in fields of Fame, In bloody Border Raids of yore. Much need had he for trusty brand. For Hilton was a warrior tall. Who oft had made, when hand to hand, The mightiest of the mighty fall. His giant form erect he bore. And challeng'd Hubert to come on ; " Tis fearful odds, the strife is o*er,*' Each Yeoman said, " with Widdrington.' But Hubert blew his Bugle shrill. His Magic Sword he flourish'd high ; Then forward rush'd, with hand and will. The southern Champion's pith to try. 62 They met, and many a thrust and blow Was nobly parry 'd, or repaid ; The fiery sparks around did glow. Fierce streaming from each warrior's Blade. The giant Hilton often strove To grapple Hubert, and that Knight A mangl'd victim soon would prove. If clasp'd within such arms of might. Keen were the blows from Hubert's Steel, And loud they rang on Hilton's mail ; Who often winc'd, and seem'd to reel Like mountain oak tost by the gale. Again they met, and Hilton fell ; Yet, as he fell, he grasp'd and bore Sir Hubert down on heathery bell. That speck'd and nodded on the moor. 63 And soon had Hubert's race been run? His Lady been a widow made ; No more the Halls of Widdrington Had echo'd with his cavalcade. One effort sav'd that youthful Knight, Tho' vain it was himself to free From Hilton's grasp, and arm of might, Whilst pinn'd beneath that Champion's knee ; Whose keen blue dagger stream'd on high, The fatal death blow drear to give ; The mortal hate that fir'd his eye. Forbade De Widdrington to live. It fell — but, swerving from the stroke. Sir Hubert shunn'd it, and the Blade, Sheath'd to its hilt, with awful shock. Deep in the earth a chasm made. 64 Now Widdriiigtoii, ere Hilton drew The searching dagger from the soil. His own with upward fury threw, — The thrust made Hilton's frame recoil. From his relaxing gripe he sprung, His Magic Brand descends amain ; With mortal knell, the weapon rung. And Hilton's head rolls on the plain. Sir Hubert blew his Bugle Horn, Triumphant notes swept o'er the moor ; And Hilton*s scarf, all rent and torn. To Percy's ranks he proudly bore. THE BATTLE. A solemn silence long had reign'd O'er Percy's band, o'er Neville's train, The while the Champions had sustain'd Each party's honour, on the Plain. But when the haughty Warden ey'd His Champion headless, on the heath ; " Now forward ! friends," he fiercely cried, " On to the charge, revenge his death !" The Percy then the signal gave, " My mer7^y men ! take steady aim ;" — The Bow strings ring, the iarrow'd wave Swept o'er the field of death and fame. K 66 Successively the Bow strings rung, As fierce the Arrows flew like hail ; And many a Knight at stirrup swung, Encumber'd in his heavy mail. The rising ground the Archers kept, T' ascend the Horsemen strove, in vain For down the steep the arrows swept. Like torrent swollen with the rain. Three times before the feather'd shower The Horsemen wheel'd, and backward drew ; For death now reign'd upon the Moor, So well the Archers bent the Yew. " Bring on the Spearmen," — Neville cried. And oft he curs'd the broken ground ; Unfit for mounted troops to ride. For hills did Percy's band surround. t 67 With steady step the Spearmen came, Upon their arms the sun-beams play'd ; And many a crest of Border fame Above their helmets was display'd. *' Wheel the light troops around yon hill,' The Warden said, in lofty tone ! *' Bade Border Prickers shew their skill. And dash the Archers' rear upon." His Bowmen mov'd, and left the Plain, The Percy Archers to annoy ; And sought the Bell Knoll's* top to gain,— But Percy did their hopes destroy. " Charge, Hubert ! charge with Sword in hand, " The while they want their Horsemen's aid ; ** If they yon Knoll tops should command, " Perchance may fail the scheme we've laid." * Some rising grounds in the neighbourhood of the Cross. 68 The Widdringtons their Bows flung bye, With shimmering Swords they fiercely ran, On Neville's Bows their whingers ply, And charg'd them bravely in their van. The men of Tees and Wear were good ; And when they saw them pressing on. They wheel'd in line, and firmly stood The furious charge of Widdrington. One arrow'd volley swift they sent, Then threw aside the useless Bow ; And hand to hand, they bravely went. While thrust met thrust, and blow met blow. Sore was the tug, and loud the yells Of mad'ning slogan, echoing far ; Around now rung the neighbouring fells, The diapason of the war. 69 The Percy saw th' unequal fight ; " Now Hungerford and Ross," — he cried, " Come on," — but lo ! they took to flight ! And on the gallop northward hied. 'T were they who lay in ambuscade. And strange it seems that they should fly ; But so it was ! — and thus a shade Is cast upon their memory. The Warden mark'd the time at hand To move with all his troops, for now The Archers of Northumbria's band Descended from the ridge's brow. Their shafts were spent, no chance remained To Percy and his gallant train ; If Neville's Spears their rear had gain'd, — They therefore rush'd into the Plain. 70 Sore spent they were, yet not subdued, — And tho' their foes were three to one, — No warrior flinch'd, but bravely stood. Firm as a rock of granite stone. No arrow now was whizzing sent. And silent lay the twanging Bow ; But clashing Spears were forward bent. And Swords dealt many a deadly blow. And foot 'gainst foot was firmly set ; And dagger met the dagger's thrust ; And bills and battle axes met ; Together Chiefs hurl'd in the dust. But yet the fate of war had spread Sad carnage 'mongst the *' merry men ;" And Widdringtons link'd with the dead, Allj save their Chief, and other ten. 71 Sore prest the furious Horsemen there. The Percy's standard was bent low ; And mighty slogans rent the air. Insulting, from the numerous foe. On foot, the Percy fought that day. Whole ranks dissolv'd before his hand ; And limbs and heads were shred away Like poppies, by his sweeping brand. But what could single valour do ? E'en Hubert's Magic Sword did fail ; And Billmen keen, and Archers true. Were scatter'd o'er the bloody dale. Now back to back, Northumbrians stood. Around them Neville's Horsemen prest ; His Spears, an overwhelming flood, RoU'd on, and had them sore distrest. 72 To right and left, before, behind, The torrent of the war stream'd fast ; - And loud its noise rode on the wind. That free and fiercely whistled past. " One effort more," — the Percy said. For off the field he scorn'd to flee ; His well-known shout his troops obey'd, " Now forward " merry men'' with me !" " Charge thro' yon iron hedge of Spears, j « That cuts us from our native land !" Then Percy's shouts rung Neville's ears, — What could such desperate charge withstand? Yet numbers clos'd the Percy round ; A spearman did his body gore ; But lightly from the bloody ground He sprung, full '* thirty feet' and more ! 73 His death-pangs gave him desperate strength, And backward far he drove the foe ; What brand with his could measure length? What shield resist its mighty blow ? Kut fail'd that strength ; his warriors slain, His banner flutter*d high no more ; The Hero sunk on Battle plain. Since call'd the fight of Hedgley Moor. Then, " leaving life," the Chieftain said. As Hubert's hand he fondly prest. Who now stood leaning on his Blade, Tve sav'd the Bird within my breast /" (t Then Hubert slowly from the field Reluctant sped, for Neville's train Were stripping those whom fate made yield. And pillaging the ghastly slain. 74 A sterner field was seldom fought, Tho' Montacute York's cause made good ; Yet, dearly was the victory bought, The white Rose dy'd its leaves in blood ! And, srentle Reader, let me tell All that remains !— all that is knowu To mark the spot where Percy fell, Is but a simple Cross of Stone ! END OF CANTO SECOND. * NOTES TO CANTO FIRST. NOTES TO CANTO I. « The Hermit had his beads told o'er."— P. 1 . This alludes to the Hermit of Warkworth, so celebrated in Po- etic Song. " And Cheviot's far-seen form had fled." — P. 1. These remarkable mountain heights are the boundaries which divide the borders of England and Scotland, and form a strong barrier between the sister kingdoms. The hill called, by way of eminence, Cheviot, rears its lofty head to an amazing height, and overlooks all the country for many miles ; hence the prospect from this alpine observatory, on a fine clear day, is very extensive, — " unde sedens partes speculetur in omnes." Ovin. " And tell a Tale of Hedgley Moor."— P. 2. The tract of ground called Hedgley Moor, which extended from the county bridges, skirting the Breamish water, and the Barony of Beanly, and then tapering towards a point, shot along the pre- sent road to Wooler, as far as Wooperton, and took in the rising grounds as far as Brandon White House. But now, almost all traces of Hedgley Moor are lost, amidst thriving plantations, neat hedge rows, and well cultivated fields ; and scarcely a single fea- ture remains that deserves the name of Moor. — Hedgley is the seat and property of Ralph Carr, Esq. " The sleeping Deer, in Rosedon dell." — P. 2. Rosedon is situated on the south side of the village of Ilderton, and was formerly so secluded with trees, as almost to be hidden from public view. 78 The Mansion House is an ancient structure, with the armorial bearings of its founder or proprietor, sculptured in relief, above the front door. It is now the property of Sanderson Ilderton, Esq. of Ilderton, an ancient family, who have retained possessions close by Rosedon since the time of Edward I. On Rosedon Edge is a large square entrenchment, which ap- pears to have been a Roman post ; it being so situated, as to ob- serve the adjoining British strongholds, a circumstance which often determined the Romans in the choice of their military posts. " And shook dark Roddam's Woods amain." — P. 3. Roddam House is boldly situated on an eminence, that forms one of the southern banks of a deep romantic tlell, finely clothed with wood, which at present affords fine cover for game; and in " days of yore" was, in all probability, a favourite retreat for the stag. Roddam is the seat of an ancient and honourable family of that name. " Lilburn's deep glens the blasts resound." — P. 3. Lilburn is pleasingly situated on a slight rising ground, a little to the north of the Lill Burn. It is well sheltered with wood, and retains much of that gloomy grandeur which characterised the residence of a Northumbrian Chieftain. The ancient Tower and Mansion of the Lilburns is now in ruins, and stands at the west end of the village. Lilburn Tower, a neat modern structure, is now the residence of Henry CoUingwood, Esq. one of the ancient and honourable branches of the heroes of that name. " Straight for the Cheviot's ample Chase." — P. S. The scene of the Battle of " Chevy Chase," in the celebrated 79 ballad of that name, is laid in these mountains ; and notwithstand- ing that there is nothing but ballad authority for it, yet, it is highly probable that such an action might have happened, be- tween two rival Chieftains, jealous of the invasion of their hunting grounds. The limits of the kingdoms were then unsettled; and even at this time, there are debateable lands about these hills. *' As Langley-ford's dark pass he near'd." — F. 4>. A celebrated pass to the Cheviot. " Hubert de Widdrington his name." — P. 4r. The name of Widdrington, or Witherington, was once celebrated in Northumberland ; and Widdrington Castle, situated about eight miles north-east from Morpeth, was the seat and mansion of this race of Heroes. The author has introduced one of this name into his Tale of Hedgley Moor; and though he has no historical au- thority for such, yet, it is not at all improbable but that one of a family, so much attached to the Percy interest, would take part in the Battle in question. That they were leading men in the county, during the stormy time of the wars between York and Lancaster, is evident, for we find a Sir John De Widdrington was high sheriff of Northumberland, 22 King Richard H. the 11 King Henry IV; and the 4 and 8 King Henry VI. His successor, Sir Roger De Widdrington, served in the same high office three times during the same reign. " Of ' Riding Men,' from Tiviotdale."— P. JO. " Riding Men" is a term applied to the Moss-troopers of the Bor- ders ; and, perhaps, no part of the Merse was more distinguished for the production of Heroes of this class, than the fertile, and now peaceful vale, of Tiviot. 80 " A Wizard Lord this Castle claim'd."— P. 11. The story of the Castle is merely imaginary, no such mighty fabric being in existence, in the quarter wherein our Hero and his company were quartered ; but the author introduces some tra- ditionary matter, respecting an enchantment said to have existed in the old sea-girt Castle of Dunstanborough, which shall be noted in its proper place. The belief in Spirits, Enchantments, and Wizards, did exist long and faithfully in the vulgar creed, and more especially upon the Borders. As one instance of a Wizard Chieftain, I mention the mighty Soulis of the strong Castle of Hermitage. See a beautiful and historical account of him in Sir Walter Scott's Minstrelsy of the Border, Vol. HI. — P. 245. The same elegant writer observes " that the belief in Ghosts, which has been well termed the last lingering phantom of super- stition, still maintains its ground upon the Borders." " Adown by Millfield Plain they sped."—- P. 13. Millfield is situated about two miles north-east from Copeland. This was formerly a residence for the Saxon monarchs of Bernicia. On the south side of the village, is a large and beautiful plain, celebrated in " days of yore" for horse-racing, games of foot-ball, and other amusements. But this plain is rendered much more famous, for the defeat of a large body of Scots before the Battle of Flodden, by Sir William Bulmer, of Brancepeth Castle, who com- manded the forces of the bishopric of Durham. The Scots had concealed themselves among the broom, which then covered the plain. Five or six hundred of them were killed, and four hundred taken prisoners. They afterwards called the road through the plain, the ill road. The author has introduced a similar exploit as achieved on this plain. " Where Heaton and his Bowmen lie." — P. 13. If we are compelled to seek for a Chieftain to illustrate this per- 81 sonagCj we may suppose the Chieftain from the Castle of Heton, a strong fortress, of a square form, overhanging the steep banks of the Till. The Reader is at liberty to consider him as the Wiz- ard Lord mentioned in the text. This has no historical reference whatever. " Gray Copeland Tower they deemed their prize." — P. 14. Copeland Castle was anciently the residence of that celebrated Hero John De Copeland, who took the King of Scotland prisoner at the Battle of Neville's Cross, near Durham. It is situated close by Millfield Plain, and might in all probability have been an ob- ject worthy of a predatory excursion, such as the author has in- troduced. Copeland Castle, now greatly enlarged, is the property and seat of Matthew CuUey, Esq. " And loud their slogan rent the skies." — P. 14. The gathering word, peculiar to a certain name or set of people, was termed slogan, or slughorn. An old author, says Sir W. Scott, seems to be offended with this custom, for he proceeds to describe this practice thus ; " Yet, our northern prikkers, the Borderers, " notwithstandyng, with great enormitie, (as thought me,) and ** not unlike (to be playn) unto a masteries hounde howlyng in a " high wey when he hath lost him he waited upon, sum hoopynge, " sum whistlyng, and most with crying, A Berwyke, a Berwyke ! " a Fenwyke, a Fenwyke ! A Bulmer, a Bulmer ! or so otherwise *' as theyr captain's name wear, never lin'de these troublous and " dangerous noyses all the nyghte longe." — See Notes Minstrel : Border, Vol. /.—P. 147. The Highland clans had also their appropriate slogans. The Macdonalds cried Frich, (heather); the Macphersons Craig-Ubh; the Grants Craig-Elachie ; and the Macfarlines Loch-Slot/, ibid. M 82 " Fire, * fire the lower wards,' — the flame." — P. 15. The usual method of expelling the defenders from fortresses like Copeland, where the chambers were vaulted, and formed a lodgement, which was capable of holding out a considerable time, was by setting fire to the wet straw in the lower apartments. " And Tiviot's gentle stream may weep " Her gallant Sheriff rudely slain." — P. l6. The Douglases were the hereditary sheriffs of Tiviotdale ; and from this circumstance, a band of Tiviot- Foray ers is brought forward on a predatory excursion, under the command of their gallant Sheriff; for, be it remembered, that exploits of surprise or reprisal, were not derogatory to the chivalrous auspices, under which, such men as Douglas held their military honour ; and even an attempt was made in 1457, on the east Borders, by "the Percy and the Douglas, both together," but it proved unsuccessful. " 'Twas Duncan's Harp, of powerful string, " Which oft bade Cheviot's echoes wake." — P. 18. The preface to the old Song called the Laidley Worm of Spin- delstone Heugh, near Bambro' Castle, and which I have alluded to in the Stanza beginning " Twas Duncan's Harp," &c. says that it was composed upwards of 500 years ago, by the old mountain Bard, Duncan Fraser, living on Cheviot, A. D. 1270. — A note to the song says that there is a place called " Wynd," in the city of 1 Edinbro', but I am unable to illustrate the character of this Childy Wynd further than what is said of him in the Ballad. " For of quaint Gramarye and Spell," &c.— P. 18. Gramarye is a species of charm, possessing the property of be- 83 numbing and overwhelming all the faculties, mental and bodily. The term Wizard appears to have been applied to persons, whose talents and pursuits led them above the level of the vulgar ; or to use the words of a modern writer " the charge of Magic was trans- ferred from the ancient sorcerers, to the objects of popular resent- ment of every age; and the partisans of the Baliols, the abettors of the English faction, and the enemies of the protestant and the presbyterian reformation, have been indiscriminately stigmatized as Necromancers and Warlocks." We find the term of Wizard in Scripture; and that he was then an object of detestation, ap- pears from the conduct of Saul, who " had put the Wizards out of the land." In more modern days, — I mean the period when Bri- tish History commences, — we find the marvellous Merlin, or Myrr- don the Wild, and Michael Scot, both magicians of notorious fame. Elf signifies a spirit of the lower order. Fae, the derivation of this word is undetermined ; but it is allowed to signify Fairy or Faerie. The curious Reader will find a learned and beautiful his- tory of Fairies, in the preface to the Tale of Tamlane, in the Minstrelsy of the Border. " And bow strings, ' made of sifted- sand'." — P. 20. The formation of cords of sand, according to popular tradition, was a work of such difficulty, that it was assigned by Michael Scot, to a number of spirits, for which it was necessary for him to find some interminable employment. — Minstrel: Border. " And yield to Mab's vindictive wand." — P. 22. Shakspeare gives a delightful account of the properties of Queen Mab's wand in his definition of her employment. " It said, ' The Mighty leaves his Bride'."— P. 24. This note shall illustrate the verse quoted, and six succeeding 84 ones. Tradition, ever tenacious of the marvellous, relates that a certain Lord of Dunstanborough Castle, who was a great Necro- mancer, was at last deprived of his power by the great Spirit or Arch Deemon, who had conferred it upon him. The reason as- signed for this detraction, the author is unacquainted with ; but the story goes on to relate, that the Chieftain was charmed with his hounds, his sword, and bugle horn ; and that all were enclosed in one of the vaults of that ancient fortress. The particulars of this story, he has related in the text, almost verbatitn with the traditional account, excepting that he has introduced a Lady in place of a Knight. It is therefore not necessary that we should repeat them. There is some similarity between this story, and that of Lord Soulis of Hermitage, and perhaps the incidents are interwoven ; but almost every Castle or Towe», according to the popular creed, had something marvellous attached to it ; and these stories having nothing to transmit them to posterity, but through the medium of recitation, it is not to be expected, but that many separate tales are blended together, and incidents, once unconnected, are now, through the lapse of time, united together, to make out the Legendary Tale. " And white as Cheviot's alpine snow." — P. 29. The snow lies upon Cheviot almost the whole year ; and a person asserts that, a few years ago, he walked over the lough which is on its top, it being in a firmly frozen state, at Midsummer. " ' Proud York's intrigue, — death to his cause'." — P. 40. In the struggles and contentions between the houses of York and Lancaster, the Earl of Northumberland joined the party of King Henry and Queen Margaret. And through his assistance, she was enabled to meet the Duke in the field, to relieve the cap- tive King, and ultimately to vanquish Lancaster, at the Battle 85 of Wakefield, on the 30th of December, where both he and his second son Rutland were slain. The young Duke of York, how- ever, having been proclaimed in London, under the title of King Edward the IV, left that city on the 12th. of March, 1461, at the head of a powerful and well appointed army, and directed his course northward. " The white Rose waves by north the Tyne." — P. 41. York's standard was decorated with a white Rose, whilst that of Henry bore a red Rose; and after the defeat of the Lancastrian party, it became a proverbial saying that " the while Rose had put down the red"— History of England. " ' Sir Ralph De Percy feels the wrong'." — P. 41. This Hero, who bears a conspicuous part in our Song, was the fourth son of the 2d. Earl of Northumberland, and grandson to the immortal Hotspur. " The Tale of Hedgley Moor to tell."— P. 44. The particulars of this conflict will be detailed in the succeed- ing notes. END OF THE NOTES TO CANTO FIRST. «. « NOTES TO CANTO SECOND. NOTES TO CANTO II. " The morning Sun the mist had chas'd " From ofF Ros Castle's lofty hill."— P. 47. On a lofty eminence situated at the head of Chillingham Park, is a circular double intrenchment called Uos Castle. Antiquarians suppose this to have been a fort of the ancient Britons. The word 'Ros, in the Celtic and Gaelic language, signifying a promontory. " On Chillingham's sequester'd bowers." — P. 47. The Castle of Chillingham is deeply embosomed amidst lofty fine woods. It is of the order of architecture used in the reign of Queen Elizabeth, and is the seat of the Earl of Tankerville. " O'er Hepbron's oaks, and darksome hall." — P. 48. Hepbron or Hepburn Hall is situated at a little distance to the south of Chillingham, and was once the noble seat of the family of that name. It is now a roofless ruin, but yet of such strength, as almost to bid defiance to the wasting hand of time. The lower apartments are vaulted, for the purpose of securing cattle in at night, against " the Border Riders ;" nor is the gloomy dungeon wanting, and a dreary abode it is, for the unfortunate prisoners must have been let down through a trap door, at the top, which entirely shut out all hope of escape. The late gallant Admiral Roddam was born in this old Mansion. Hepbron Hall, with its demesne, is now the property of Lord Tankerville. N 90 " Dun Bewick heard tlie lark's shrill call." — P. 48. Old Bewick is the property of William Sadlier Bruere, Esq, There was formerly a fine old Tower here, but all traces of it are now lost, though, within the recollection of some old persons yet living, the vaults and some parts of the walls were standing. Bewick Tower was, in all probability, the baronial residence of a family of that name. The village bears the marks of antiquity, and was anciently of considerable extent ; it is sard, that it held a Fair and Market, and also a Court Baron ; but these are all va- nished, anxl it is now a hamlet of trifling appearance. At a short distance from the village, are the remains of a Cross, vulgarly sup- posed to have been the same that once graced the market-place : but yet, perhaps, popular opinion is incorrect, and the now pros- trate Cross may have been the mark where some deed of chivalry was performed, or where some mighty warrior fell ; for this now peaceful village was once the seat of warriors, and the scene of deeds of arms. A modern writer thus describes the camp on the top of Bewick Hill. " On Bewick Hill is a semi-circular intrench- ment, with a double foss and vallum, defended to the west by a steep precipice. The entrance on the south is formed by a hollow way, twelve feet and a half wide, defended by large rag-stones, placed with their edges in the earth, so as to make a strong breast work. At Harup-burn, half a mile to the east of this strength, is a smaller semi-circular intrenchment, which seems to have been- a kind of out-post on that side. This fort on Bewick Hill was undoubtedly the work of the ancient Britons." The church be- longing to this village has been unfortunately suffered to fall into ruins. The present worthy vicar of Eglingham is now about to have it repaired, and is collecting subscriptions for that purpose. " Harehope now shew'd his heath-clad brow." — P. 48. A lofty eminence in a line with Bewick Hill. 91 " And Eglingham her wild woods shook." — P. 48. The well sheltered village of Eglingham is gently situated on a "i-ising ground, and is the ancient seat and manor of the honourable family of Ogle. It was the seat and manor of Luke Ogle, 1 Queen Elizabeth ; of Henry Ogle, one of the sequestrators of the lands in Northumberland, for the parliament 19 King Charles I. also a representative in parliament 5 King Charles II; of Henry Ogle, high sheriff of Northumberland, 10 King George II; of Ralph Ogle, who was succeeded by the late Robert Ogle, Esq. It is now in the possession of his son Robert Ogle, Esq. one of the Magistrates for the County, and Major in the Northumberland Regiment of Light Infantry. The Mansion House is a noble and elegant structure, combining the advantages of strength with all the gracefulness of pleasing architecture. The grounds and walks are delightfully laid out ; and, without making invidious compari- sons, perhaps there is not a more snug, or better residence for a private gentleman's family, in the County. " Grim Beanly smil'd."— P. 48. Beanly lies on the east side of the river Breamish or Till, about a mile to the south of Eglingham. It was the barony of the Earls of Dunbar, the descendants of Cospatric, the expatriated Earl of Northumberland, on the service of being in-borough and out-borough between England and Scotland. — That is, he was appointed to observe the " egress and ingress" of those, who travelled between the two kingdoms. The estate of Beanly, however, was granted for ever, by King Edward III. to Henry Percy, in 1334; and it is still in the possession of the Duke of Northumberland. " and Crawley now " Frown'd from its height, with lordly look." — P. 48. Antiquarians have agreed that Crawley was a Roman station. 92 and some of the work of that people is still visible there ; but the present roofless Tower is perhaps of more modern date, and in all probability formed one in the chain of fortresses, that extended across the county, for the protection of it, against the Borderers ; and certainly, it is most admirably situated for such a purpose, as it commands an extensive prospect all around, for many miles. Tradition, without being supported by any historical authority, says, that the square Keep, or Tower, was built by a famous " Rider" called Crawley ; hence the place got its name. This Tower was, at an after period, the residence of one of the author's ancestors named Harrowgate, of whom many anecdotes are yet extant, and amongst others, is the following : Mr. Harrowgate possessed a remarkably fine white horse, for he was not behind his neighbours in making ex- cursions north of the Cheviot, and the then proprietor of the Crawley Estate, took so great a fancy to this beautiful charger, that, after finding that he could not tempt Harrowgate to sell him for money, he offered him the whole of this fine Estate in exchange for the horse ; but Mr, H. in the true spirit of a Border Rider, made him this bold reply, " I can fnd lands when I have use for them, but " there is no sic a beast (i. e. horse) i' yon side o' the Cheviot, nor " yet o' this, and I wad na' part wi' him if Crawley were made " o' gold." How little did the value of landed property appear in those days of trouble and inquietude, and how much less were the comforts of succeeding generations consulted ! The only property of value then, to a Borderer, was his trusty arms, and a fleet and active horse ; and these seem to have been the only things appre- ciated by this old gentleman. " But thy proud Towers, Northumberland ! " Are rifled by thy deadliest foe." — P. 50. After the Battle of Towton, Queen Margaret went over to France, to solicit the aid of Louis XI. who only supplied her with a small 93 • force, which was entrusted to the command of Peter De Breze, an able and experienced warrior. After encountering some difficul- ties, the gallant De Breze landed on the coast of Northumberland, and was presently besieged in Alnwick Castle, by Lord Hastings, Sir Ralph Grey, and Sir John Howard. Margaret was very anx- ious however to relieve the garrison, and uniting to her interest, by a grant of English Lands, the gallant Earl of Angus, with his Scottish Borderers, she advanced suddenly to Alnwick, pretend- ing a false attack on the besieging army. The latter immediately prepared to repel the onset, and in the interim, the redoubted An- gus selected a pai'ty of his stoutest horses, and conveying them to the postern gate, a service the Borderers were well calculated to per- form, the brave De Breze sallied out with the gan-ison, and every soldier mounting behind a trooper, or horses provided for the pur- pose, the whole got clear off, and thus the Castle fell into Edward's hands without bloodshed. Sir Ralph Grey, either through treach- ery, or pressed by want of provisions, again delivered it into the hands of the Queen. But Edward approaching with a powerful army, she found it necessary to retreat into Scotland, leaving but a slender garrison for the defence of this Castle. Edward, on his arrival in Northumberland, finding no enemy in the field, laid siege at once to the Castles of Alnwick, Bamburgh, and Dunstanborough. On Christmas Eve, 1462, the Castle of Bamburgh surrendered, and its brave defenders, the Duke of Somerset and Sir Ralph Percy, were pardoned, and received into favour. Three days afterwards, the Castle of Dunstanborough yielded. " Fierce Greystock, leagu'd on Edward's side, " Now riots in the Percy's Halls." — P. 51. Alnwick Castle, after the fall of the other two, still held out for the Queen ; but at length it was taken, on the 6th. January 1463. It had gallantly sustained the united efforts of the Earl of War- 94 wick, the Earl of Kent, Lord Powis, the Baron of Greystock, and the Lord Cromwell, with a force of ten thousand men. ** De Breze, thy succouring aid in vain "Arives."— P. 51. Before it fell into the hands of Edward's party, the French ge- neral De Breze, with a band of his own countrymen, and a consi- derable army of Scots, attempted to relieve Alnwick Castle, but their gallant efforts failed. " 111 may the Percy brook such deed!" — P. 51. The bold and indefatigable Queen was yet unsubdued, and hav- ing cultivated the friendship of some northern Chieftains, she again entered Northumberland. Sir Ralph Grey having changed sides, besieged or rather surprised Edward's garrison, placed in the Castle of Bambro' under the command of Sir John Astly, who ■was likewise governor of Alnwick Castle. These seemed success- ful preludes ; and the Duke of Somerset, and Sir Ralph Percy, ani- mated by these favourable accounts of the Queen's numbers and successes, deserted the proud and imperious Edward, and joined the Queen Margaret with their followers. " That Margaret, like the great Joan."— P. 52. Queen Margaret's character is not dissimilar to that of the fa- mous Maid of Orleans, called " Joan of Arc." They were both fired with patriotic zeal, though perhaps, our English Queen car- ried her courage more to the altar of ambition, than the amazo- nian Frenchwoman did her's. True it is, however, that both their bravery and their misfortunes, were of the most pointed kind, and 95 « each were destined to see their chivah-ou%j^ertions close unsuc- cessfully. Joan terminated her bright career with death, our Mar- garet felt all the horrors of exile and neglect. " And with her clarions, sounding clear, " Was mix'd the northern Bagpipes bray." — P. 53. The inspiring sounds of the marticil Bagpipes, have a wonder- ful effect on the gallant Scotchman's ear. It is said, but I have misplaced the reference, that during a late campaign, a northern Regiment, overpowered with numbers, gave way, nor could the efforts of their officers bring the men again to the charge. " Try the effect of our Bagpipes, said an experienced warrior, an' that will do it." The experiment was resorted to, the martial strains operated like magic ; the gallant fellows could not resist the in- spiring calls to glory, they again redoubled their efforts, and suc- ceeded in carrying their object, at the point of the bayonet. " For Percy and his Men are there." — P. 53. We are now to observe that the field of Battle presents itself to our view, with the forces of Sir Ralph Percy, assisted by the Lords Hungerford and Ross, drawn out in order to meet the enemy. " Along the ridge of rising heath " Call'd Wooperton."— P. 54.. Wooperton is situated between Glanton and Wooler, and formed the higher ground of Hedgley Moor, From this rising situation, the Archers might with more precision assail the advancing foe. The author, therefore, has taken the liberty of placing the Percy Bowmen along this eminence. 96 " The Eastern Warden eke was he, " And boasted Neville's noble name." — P. 55. Edward had appointed the brave and vigilant Sir John Neville, Lord Montacute, to be Warden of the Eastern March. their repercussion shook " The distant lofty Hurl Stone."— P. 60. In a field near Chillingham New Town, stands an ancient Cross, called the Hurl Stone. Tradition is silent as to its history, but, in all probability, it was erected in commemoration of some warlike exploit. It is a rude pillar, resting in a square trough ; it is 12 feet high, and without any inscription. " But John of Hilton rose again." — P. 60. The ancient and warlike family of Hilton, had their baronial residence at the Castle of Hilton, in the County of Durham. Hil- ton Castle is still a handsome residence, overhanging the banks of the river Wear. " Whose keen blue dagger stream'd on high." — P. 63. It was suggested to the author, that the stanzas here alluded to, are similar to that grand description given by Sir Walter Scott, Bart, of the conflict between Fitz James and Roderic Dhu. The author has certainly unwittingly almost used the same idea, but it is a coincidence, which was neither intended, nor wished for. The text, indeed, might have been altered, but then, the circum- stances of the Duel, would have been materially weakened ; and besides, such contingences were almost invariably the issue of the like encounters. If however the author is called upon to apologize for this coalition of phraseology, he does sincerely avow, that he 97 * cannot follow a better standard for stringing his wild Harp to martial Rhyme, than by keeping in view the lofty strains, and sweetly flowing numbers, of Him who tells the Tales of other times ! " Bade Border Prickers shew their skill." — P. 67. The Borderers occasionally acted as light cavalry, riding horses of small size, but uncommonly active and nimble. They could, in cases of emergency, collect, in one single day, a body of horse to the astonishing amount of ten thousand. *' Now Hungerford and Ross," — he cried, " Come on."--P. 69. These two Noblemen, the companions in arms to the undaunted Percy, fled at the onset of the Battle, and left him alone with his brave Northumbrians, to be cut to pieces, by the overwhelming forces of the Eastern Warden. Whether their conduct, on this occasion, is to be attributed to cowardice or bribery, history offers no opinion. " But lightly from the bloody ground " He sprung, full ' thirty feet' and more \" — P. 72. At a short distance from the old Cross are two large stones, sunk into the ground, twelve yards asunder, called, by the common peo- ple, Percy's Leap. Tradition says that Sir Ralph, on receiving his death wound, sprung the distance marked out by these stones. " I've sav'd the Bird within my breast." — P. 73. After the ignominious flight of his auxiliaries, the gallant Percy and his faithful followers still sustained the contest ; but at length O 98 were overcome by numbers. The Chieftain and his gallant Nor- thumbrians disdained to quit the field of Battle, or desert the cause they had espoused. They fell like heroes bravely fighting for Henry the VI. Percy, when dying, said that he had " saved the Bird in his bosom ;" meaning that he had kept his promise and oath to Henry. " Is but a simple Cross of Stone !" — P. 74. The Cross consists of a stone pillar fixed on a pedestal, with the Percy and Lucy arms rudely cut upon it in relief. Tradition says, that this Cross marks the place where Sir Ralph Percy fell dead ; but, at all events, it at least points out the field of Battle, and preserves the memory of the Chieftain, and Kis gallant warriors, who gloriously fell that day in the cause of monarchy, A. D. 1463. The Cross was much dilapidated and broken down through the lapse of time ; but the present Duke of Northumberland, with a taste decidedly antiquarian, and with that anxiety which so much distinguishes His Grace's character, to preserve the sacred relics of the " days of yore" from falling into oblivion, has caused the venerable Cross to be repaired, and secured by an iron railing placed around it. This ancient Cross stands in a field, which formed part of Hedgley Moor, about sixty paces east of the road which runs from Morpeth to Wooler, and at a small distance north of the 21 mile stone. His Grace has also caused two handsome cottages to be erected near the Cross. They exhibit all that comfort and convenience which might be expected from the munificence of their noble founder. END OF THE NOTES TO CANTO SECOND. * APPENDIX. The following Stanzas were anonymously published in 1826. Perhaps their insertion in this Volume, though they do not breathe the " voice of war," will not be considered out of place. AN ODE TO HIS GRACE THE DUKE OF NORTHUMBERLAND'S BIRTH-DAY. CELEBRATED ON THE 20th. APllIL, 1826. Ut tamen noris, quibus advoceris Gaudiis : Idus tibi sunt agendae ; Qui dies mensem Veneris marinae Findit Aprilem. Hur. Lib. Quart. Car. XL Hail ! hail ! thou glad auspicious morn, Proud harbinger of festal joy ; We fondly greet thy lov'd return, And in thy praise our harp employ To join in chorus, loud and long, The plaudits of that gentle throng Which nobly meet, their court to pay. And keep our Percy's natal day. And keep, &c. 100 AU-hallow'd was the hour that gave This Chieftain to his far-fam'd land ; The roof-tree of a race as brave As e'er bent bow or drew a brand ! But not on martial deeds our theme Now lingers, for a softer beam Streams forth, and we our court must pay. And keep our Percy's natal day. And keep, &c. Peace crowns our Isle, and we are free. And free-born thoughts we entertain ; Despising crouching slavery, Northumbria scorns the despot's chain. True to her King, as hilt to blade. If foes to Britain durst invade, — But soft ! we meet, our court to pay, And keep our Percy's natal day. And keep, &c. 101 Northumbria ! fam'd " for auld langsyne," When feudal warfare " bore the bell," These days have fled, the task is thine In Arts of Peace now to excel : Thy Chieftain smiles to see thee rise In Commerce ; there true freedom lies ! Then Merchants haste, your court to pay. And keep our Percy's natal day. And keep, &c. Northumbria ! mark thy Yeomen train ; Rich source of wealth springs from their plough ; 'Twere they of yore, who did maintain The laurels wreath'd around thy brow. Thy Chieftain shews them all his care ; And of his bounty too they share : Now Yeomen speed, your court to pay, And keep our Percy's natal day. And keep, &c. 102 Most Noble Duke ! thy county dear Can bristle at thy bugle's call ; Alike the " still small voice" revere. That whispers peace around thy hall. The honour* which our king bestow'd On thee, to us thy clansmen flow'd ; And prouder now our court we'll pay, And keep thy hallow'd natal day. And keep, &c. We wish thee length of days and years. With store of health, peace, happiness : Light be thy share of human cares ; Full to the brim thy cup of bliss. This is our toast ! ! ! ye gallant train. Let three times three peal round amain ; United thus, our court we pay, And keep great Percy's natal day. And keep, &c. * His Grace was appointed His Britannic Majesty's Repre- sentative at the Court ofFrance; on the Coronation of Charles X. CONCLUSION. The Author of this little volume cannot allow the present oppor- tunity to escape, without humbly returning his grateful acknow- ledgments for the noble and very distinguished patronage, with which the work has been honoured. He is fully sensible, that his poetic talents are no way adequate to meet the scrutinizing eye of criticism, and that his best efforts fall very far short of me- riting the suffrages of so respectable a list of subscribers. The Author therefore claims no common share of indulgence, and begs to declare that it was only at the request, and through the kind interposition, of some distinguished individuals, that he consented to put his simple effusions to the press. ERRATA. Page 3, stanza 3, line 1, for ' 7nani/ hunter's/ read * merrt/ hunter's.' . . 4, . . 1, . . 3, for * ifn^ in his rear/ read * riwg in his rear.' . .19, . . 1, . . 1, for'toHeaton/ow'£?/read*toHeaton6ow'rf.' APPROPRIATION OF COPIES. AUgood, Miss, Chatton Vicarage Allgood, Miss Margaret, Do. Atkinson, Adam, Esq. Lorbottle House Atkinson, Mrs. Junr. Do. Anderson, Major, Newcastle upon Tyne Anderson, Mrs. Do. Atkinson, Mr. Edward, Rock Allison, Mr. Thomas, Pow Burn B Burrell, William, Esq. Broome Park Burrell, Mrs. Do. Burgess, W. R. Esq. Hartley Witney Burgess, Mrs. Do. Burgess, Miss, Do. Burgess, Miss M. A. Do. Bolam, Mr. George, Titlington Mount Bolam, Mr. Christopher, Wooler Bridge Bolam, Mr. Thomas, Hedgley Bolam, Mr. Isaac, Do. Blythe, A. M. Rev. Newton, Branton, Baker, A. J. Cresswell, Esq. Cresswell Baker, Mrs. Do. Bennet, Lady Emma, Chillingham Castle Burnett, Dr. Rothbury P 106 Bell, Matthew, Esq. M. P. Woolsington Bell, Mrs. Do. Bell, Mr. Joseph, West Bolton Brewis, Mr. Joseph, Hoppen Barker, Mr. Shawdon Hill Binks, Mr. James, Pepper Moor Brandling, Rev. R. Gosforth House Brandling, Mrs. Do. Brandling, John, Esq. Stand House Brandling, William, Esq. Low Gosforth Bullock, Benjamin, Esq. Spittle Hill Brummell, Miss, Morpeth Bennet, Mr. Thomas, Hebbron Bell Caswall, Mrs, Hampshire Camaby, Mr. Ralph, Shawdon Wood House Carnaby, Mr. John, Do. Colling wood, Henry, Esq. Lilburn Tower CoUingwood, F. J. W. Esq. Do. Campbell, Mr. William, Surgeon, Wooler Cole, Mr. John, Hebbron Lodge Cross, Mr. Richard, Chillingham Cuthbertson, Mr, William, Titlington Lane Carr, Ralph, Esq. Hedgley Hall Calvert, Rev. Mr. Chillingham Castle Crow, Mr. William, Newtown Culley, Matthew, Esq. Copeland Castle Culley, Matthew, Esq. Fowberry Tower Charleton, Charles, Esq. Alndike House Carr, Robert, Esq. Boulmer House Coulson, Miss, Bothal Carr, Miss, West Ditchburn 107 D Donkin, Mrs. Shawdon Wood House Donkin, Miss, Do. Dunn, Mr. Matthew, Houghton-le-Spring Dixon, Mr. Edward, Lemmington Bank Dippie, Mr. George, Glanton Darling, Mr. Henry, Embleton Dodd, Rev. M. Rector of Ingram Dennis, Phillip, Esq. Surgeon, Alnwick E Egdell, Mr. Samuel, Alnwick F Frankland, Miss, West Glanton Forster, William, Esq. Thropton Spittle Forster, G. J. Esq. Newton Fawdon, Mr. James, Rennington Fawdon, Mr. Thomas, Lea Moor Ferguson, Mr. Henry, Embleton Fawcus, Mr. John, Dunstan Fenwick, Miss, Morpeth G Graham, Rev. Mr. Doddington Vicarage Graham, Mr. Joseph, Alnwick H Hay, Mrs. Hopes Hall, Mr. Andrew, Percy's Cross, Howey, Miss Sarah, Ilderton 108 Hudson, Mr. Richard, New Bewick Henderson, Mr. William, Lemmington Branch Herdman, Rev. Dr. Lesbury Hughes, Joseph, Esq. Glanton Henderson, Mr. Surgeon, Do. Hedley, Mr. James, Bewick Folly 1 Johnston, Rev. John, Rector of Ilderton Ilderton, Sanderson, Esq. Ilderton Ilderton, R. C. Esq. Do. Judgson, Lt. Col. Rothbury , Jeffrey, Mr. Thomas, Chillingham K Kerr, T. Esq. Croft House Kirton, Rev. James, Glanton L Law, Rev. Joseph, Vicarage, Whittingham Langlands, J. C. Esq. Old Bewick Langlands, Mrs. Do. Lilburn, Mr. John, Chillingham Liddell, The Hon. Henry Thomas, M. P. Eslington Hall Lamb, Mr. Ralph, Lilburn Cottage M Maul, Mr. John, Wooler Morrison, Mr. William, New Bewick, Mills, Miss, Glanton M'Gregor, Mr. Alex. Wooler Cottage • 109 N Northumberland, Her Grace the Duchess of, 4 Copies Neil, Mr. Robert, Rosedon Nelson, Mr. William, East Lilburn O Ogle, Robert Esq. Eglingham House Ogle, Mrs. Do. Ogle, Master, Do. Ogle, Miss, Do. Ogle, Miss Hannah, Do. Ogle, Miss Mary, Do. Ogle, Miss Elizabeth, Do. Ossulston, Right Hon. Lord, Chillingham Castle P Pawson, William, Esq. High Sheriff of Northum- berland, Shawdon Pawson, Mrs. Do. Pawson, Master, Do. Pawson, Miss, Do. Pallister, Mr. John, Learchild R Rogerson, Mrs". Old Bewick Rutledge, Mr. George, Alnwick Robson, George, Esq. Longlea S Smith, Sir D. W. Bart. Alnwick Stowell, A. B. Rev. J. L. Eglingham 110 Storey, Miss, Old Bewick Short, Mr. Leonard, Wooler Mill Storey, Arthur, Esq. Beanly Smart, Mr. Robert, Black Bull, Wooler 'Soulsby, Mr. William, Rothbury Smith, William, Esq. Lemmington Hill-head Swanson, Mr. Robert, Glanton Spours, William, Esq. Solicitor, Alnwick Simpson, Captain M. Alnmouth Simpson, Mr. Joseph, Do. Stobbs, Mr. Edward, Glanton Smith, Mr. Hugh, Elyhaugh Tankerville, Right Hon. Earl of, Chillingham Castle Tankerville, Right Hon, Countess, Do. Tambs, Miss C. Eglingham House Thomas, L. L. D. Rev. Anthony, Chillingham Vicarage Thompson, Mr. Joseph, Wooler Trotter, Miss, Morpeth Tristram, Rev. H. B. Eglingham Vicarage Tristram, Mrs. Do. Thorp, Thomas, Esq. Alnwick Thorp, Miss, Do. Thompson, Mr. John, Titlington TurnbuU, Mr. Fenwick, Lemmington Taylor, Henry, Esq. Chraiston Bank Tewart, John, Esq. Glanton Tewart, William, Esq. Do. Tate, John, Esq. Junr. Bank House V Vivian, J. E. Esq. Warkworth Vicarage Ill w Winscome, B. D. Rev. T. C. Warkworth Vicarasre Weatherly, Mr. Thomas, Harehope Watson, Mr. David, Fleetham Wilson, Mrs. Bondgate, Alnwick Weddell, Mr. Stoddart, Do. Yorke, Captain, Chillingham Castle Young, Mr. William^ Alnmouth J. GRAHAM, PRINTER, AtKWICK. UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LIBRARY Los Angeles This book is DUE on the last date stamped below. Form L9-50W-7, '54(5990)444 FOWSAM K.A.V<;»",f.'',\a."<.,.,v\ !'„,'( Kit*- J,. .■■•;<■-' vv 1-^.,. -•■-}, -: ifail V>idd - — i+735 rington, a taJe HLli2^w of Hedgley . LiDnMHi rAUiLII y • t * * «' 1 » • '