Last were twenty yeomen, two and two, in blue
jerkins, black hose, and wearing falcons embroidered on each breast. At
their belts hung quivers, and in their hands were boar-spears, tough and
strong. They knew the art of hunting by lake or in wood, could bend a
six-foot bow, or, at the behest of their lord, send far the cloth-yard
spear.
To welcome Marmion, the Flower of English Chivalry, the soldiers of the
guard of Norham stood in the castle yard, with reversed pike and spear.
Minstrels and trumpeters were there, the welcome was prepared, and as
the train entered, a clang sounded through turret and tower, such as the
old castle had seldom heard.
Trumpets flourished, the martial airs rang out as Marmion crossed the
court, scattering angels among the ranks. Loud rose the cry:
"Welcome to Norham, Marmion!
Stout heart and open hand!
Thou flower of English land!"
Two pursuivants stood at the entrance to the donjon, and hailed the
guest as Lord of Fontenaye, of Lutterward, Scrivelbaye, of "Tamworth
tower and town." To requite their courtesy, Marmion, as he alighted,
hung about the neck of each a chain of twelve marks.
"Largesse, largesse, knight of the crest of gold!" cried the heralds, in
acknowledgment of the bounty received;
"'A blazon'd shield in battle won,
Ne'er guarded heart so bold.
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