"He hath not yet been brought to Windsor, or Westminster, and, as he now resides at Ludlow, of his health I cannot speak."
"But when went he unto Ludlow?" asked the inquisitive old man.
"Now that I do not remember," I replied; "but, as I think, it was some months before his father died."
"My dear young sir, his father died some twenty years ago."
I stared at him for several moments, thinking he must be mad. Then I saw what was the matter. "Why, hast thou not heard that his Majesty, King Edward IV is dead?" I asked, in surprise.
"Not until this moment," he replied.
So now, my children, ye can see how long it took for news to travel in those days, of which I am writing. True, the people are becoming more progressive now, but it is surprising still to learn how long it doth take for news to reach those distant parts, even yet.
We stayed that night in Tewkesbury.
The next evening we rode into the town of Ludlow, and entered the Castle.
I was admitted into the presence of the young King, who was, at that time, but twelve years of age. As I was ushered in I beheld the little King, and his uncle, Lord Rivers, sitting near his Majesty, by the casement. I went forward, and kneeling at young Edward's feet, I kissed his hand and said:—"Hail to your Majesty!"