[I] This was written in 1829, before the Reform Act was dreamt of.—Ed.
[J]The popular Ballad of the Laidley (or loathly) Worm of Spindleston Heugh, was composed by Duncan Frazier, the Cheviot bard, more than five hundred years ago, and had rendered the legend familiar far beyond the Borders. The tradition has doubtless been commemorated by the ancient Saxon bards, when old Duncan turned it into rhyme; and it is under this supposition that the present tale is told, the narrator being understood to be a wandering bard of the Saxon race.
[K]According to the venerable Bede, the name of Ida’s queen was Bidda, and the original name of Bamborough, Biddaburgh.
[L]In the old ballad she is called Margaret.
[M]It may be necessary to mention, that the imaginary deities of the Saxons were named Woden, Tuisco, Thor, Frea, and Seator. They also worshipped the sun and moon. Woden was their god of war; and from him Ida and his descendants professed to spring. We need hardly add that it is after these objects of pagan worship that we still name the days of the week; as Woden’s day (Wednesday), Thor’s day (Thursday), Frea’s day (Friday), &c. &c.
[N]Earls.
[O]Companions.
[P]Thanes signified men high in power, of various degrees of rank.
[Q]The Lady was the appellation given to a queen amongst the Anglo-Saxons.