[Meditate], to plan, to intend.
[Handwood], a piece of wood to serve as a knocker, kept in a niche outside the door.
[Battalion], a body of foot soldiers.
[Alluring], very good, tempting a person to eat.
[Viands], food, victuals.
[Looming], appearing darkly and dimly in the distance.
[Steadfast], firm, fixed, determined.
[Valorous], brave, fearless, valiant.
[Your dear charge], Deirdre.