"Now, put that cold joint upon the table, again. Doubtless the lad has
a wolf's appetite."
There was no time lost. The next day was spent in looking out his
clothes and packing his valise, by his mother; while he rode round the
country, to say goodbye to some of his friends. The next morning, at
daybreak, he started; and, at nightfall, rode into the castle of
Alnwick, and inquired for Alwyn Forster. The two men-at-arms, who had
regarded his appearance, on his shaggy border horse, with scarce
concealed contempt; at once answered, civilly, that the captain would
be found in his room, in the north turret. They then pointed out to him
the stables, where he could bestow his horse; and, having seen some hay
placed before it, and a feed of barley, to which the animal was but
little accustomed, Oswald made his way up the turret, to the room in
which his uncle lodged.
The stately castle, and the beauty, as well as the strength, of the
Percys' great stronghold, had in no small degree surprised, and almost
awed the lad, accustomed only to the rough border holds. It was
situated on rising ground, on the river Aln; and consisted of a great
keep, which dated back to the times of the Saxons; and three courts,
each of which were, indeed, separate fortresses, the embattled gates
being furnished with portcullises and strong towers.
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