No tidings of the foe were brought, Nor in what time the truce he sought. Some said, that there were thousands ten; And others ween'd that it was nought But Leven Clans, or Tynedale men, Who came to gather in black-mail ;* Might drive them lightly back agen. CEASED the high sound. The list'ning throng And marvel much, in helpless age, * Protection-money, exacted by free-booters. Had he no friend—no daughter dear, His wandering toil to share and cheer; No son, to be his father's stay, And guide him on the rugged way ?— And busied himself the strings withal, In solemn measure, soft and slow, |