But I think not that
he will do so. He knows that these counties bristle with castles, in
which the people could find refuge; and that, if he undertook to
besiege them, he would speedily lose the best part of his army.
"None of his people have experience of war, and to besiege a strong
place needs machines of all kinds, and of these Glendower has none, nor
is it likely that he can construct them. Besides, while marching out he
would be exposed to an attack, by the garrisons of these castles
sallying out in his rear. Therefore, I think not that he will be
foolish enough to undertake any great enterprises; though he may make
raids, and carry off booty and cattle, as he has now done.
"Moreover, I cannot keep the vassals in the field longer than their
feudal obligations compel them to stay, unless I pay and feed them;
which might be done readily enough, for two or three months. But the
war may last for years, and I must reserve my means, and strength, till
they are urgently needed.
"Lord Grey will doubtless be of my opinion, but is sure to do what he
can to capture Glendower; as he will consider him, not only as an enemy
of the king, but as a personal foe. However, powerful as he is, I think
not that he will venture, alone, to lead an army into the Welsh hills;
until he receives assistance from the king.
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