But these mountaineers are
altogether without learning, and are full of superstitions. Even with
us, a man more learned than the commonalty is deemed, by them, to
dabble in the black art; and it may well be that this reputation
Glendower has obtained is altogether due to the fact that he has much
knowledge, whereas the people have none. However that may be, there is
no doubt that the Welsh people are mostly ignorant; and that, at the
call of this Glendower, men from all parts are hastening to join his
banner. Even on this side of the border there are complaints that the
Welsh servants are leaving, not openly and after a due termination of
service, but making off at night, and without a word of warning.
"All this would seem to show that there is trouble on hand, and it
behoves us to be watchful, and to hold ourselves in readiness; lest at
any time they should, as in the days of old, cross the border, and
carry fire and sword through Shropshire and Hereford. The royal castles
in Wales could, doubtless, hold out against all attacks; but the
garrisons would have to remain pent up within their walls, until
succour reached them. Fortunately, most of them are situated near the
sea, and could be relieved without the troops having to march through
places where a heavily armed man can scarce make his way, and where
these active and half-clad Welshmen can harass them, night and day,
without ever giving them a chance of coming to close quarters.
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