1644.”
The task of writing being ended, he then called on all present to fill their cups with the farmer’s best country wine, and drink deep to the sentiment which he had just inscribed.
The men filled their cups and drained them to the dregs, after which they cheered for King Charles. And then the band broke up, the troopers seeking their hard couches, while Captain Oldfield retired to his room with the officers, to discuss their future movements, and to question and gossip with the farmer and such of the loyal gentry of the neighbourhood as had come to greet him on hearing of the arrival of his force.
“And whither march ye, Captain Oldfield?” asked one of the gentlemen of Longdendale, as the talk went on.
“Toward York, Sir Squire,” replied the officer; “To join the King.”
“And how will the fight go? Think you the rebels will attack the city?”
“That I doubt. For Rupert is there, he of the Rhine, a Prince of fire, whose hot blood can never wait in patience for an assault. Rather should I think he will sweep down on the Roundheads before they muster in force sufficient to attack the city. As for the end of the fight, why, look you, I am no prophet. Being in the struggle I do my best, and I take the outcome, be it what it may, as becomes a true soldier. There be some who pretend the seer’s gift of sight so that they can foresee what is to happen, but on such things I set little importance. If the end is evil, why, then, the knowledge of it comes soon enough. And if good, why the joy is all the greater for the waiting.”
The farmer now raised his voice:
“If it please you,” he said, “there is a neighbour woman who possesses the gift of sight. She foretells events in a manner right wonderful. If your worships like, I will e’en summon her before you.”
“Well,” quoth the Cavalier, “I have no objection to witnessing her antics, though I set no store by what she may say. So bring her within; ’twill help the time to pass.”