The matter has been tried, again and again,
and has always taxed the power of England to the utmost.
"'Tis of no use lamenting over spilt milk but, for my part, I regret
that Parliament did not give a fair hearing to Glendower's complaint
against Lord Grey. The refusal to do so was a high-handed one. It has
driven this man to desperation, and has enlisted the sympathies of all
Welshmen who have English neighbours; for they cannot but say, among
themselves, 'If he is to be plundered and despoiled, and his complaints
refused a hearing, what is to prevent our being similarly despoiled?
'Tis surely better to take up the sword, at once, and begin again the
fight for our independence.'
"As it is, it may cost thousands of lives, immense efforts, and vast
trouble before things are placed on their former footing.
"Doubtless, the captain of the men-at-arms you have brought is a good
soldier, since Percy says that he is captain of his garrison at
Alnwick!"
"He bears a high reputation in Northumberland, Sir Edmund. I may say
that he is my uncle, and 'tis from his recommendation that Lord Percy,
in the first place, took me into his household."
"I will go down and speak with him," the knight said.
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