LEGEND
OF
SEWEN SHIELDS CASTLE.
This legendary ballad is an un-embellished versification of an old tradition, still current in the vicinity of Sewen Shields Castle, in Northumberland.
Nought but some dæmon’s baleful step
For years had pass’d those lands,
Where (all its former grandeur fled)
An ancient castle stands.
Where many a lord, and many a knight,
And many a baron bold,
The meed of valour oft had won,
Or tale of love had told.