68 Tur CASTLE OF DUMFRIES. 
The most worthy clerk in the kingdom ; 
And indeed of Christendom, 
Tf I should tell you the truth of him. 
Because if you will listen to me, 
He was wise, and eloquent, 
Temperate, just, and chaste. 
Never did you approach a rich man 
Who regulated his life better. 
Pride, coveteousness, and envy, 
He had entirely cast away ; 
Nevertheless he had a lofty heart 
To defend his rights, 
So that he failed not to overcome 
His enemies by patience. 
For by a just conscience 
So strongly was he influenced, 
That everyone wondered. 
In all the King’s wars 
He had appeared in noble array, 
With a great retinue, and at great cost. 
In consequence of I know not what wrong, 
For which a process was entered, 
He was detained in England, 
So that he did not then come to Scotland ; 
Notwithstanding he so well kept in mind 
The King’s expedition, 
That he sent him of his people 
One hundred and sixty men-at-arms. 
Arthur never with all his spells, 
Had so fine a present from Merlin. 
And he sent there his ensign, which was gules 
With a fer de moulin of ermine.” 
VICTUALLING THE CASTLE. 
The victualling of the Castle was frequently a matter of diffi- 
culty, and want, if not famine, was a not uncommon experience. 
The neighbouring country, by reason of the war, being waste, it 
was necessary to obtain supplies from England, Ireland, and else- 
where. Copious, and as usual, minutely detailed accounts, are 
to hand of such munitions, showing of what they consist, where 
got, how transported, and the prices paid, severally. 
The fare seems to have been substantial and generous, but 
without luxury. Cows and their produce, oxen, sheep, pork, 
poultry, and fish are staple supplies. The fish is various, as 
great fish, herrings, in great numbers, and hard fish called hakes. 
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