Minstrels and trumpeters were there, the welcome was prepared, and as
the train entered, a clang sounded through turret and tower, such as the
old castle had seldom heard.

Trumpets flourished, the martial airs rang out as Marmion crossed the
court, scattering angels among the ranks. Loud rose the cry:

"Welcome to Norham, Marmion!
Stout heart and open hand!
Thou flower of English land!"

Two pursuivants stood at the entrance to the donjon, and hailed the
guest as Lord of Fontenaye, of Lutterward, Scrivelbaye, of "Tamworth
tower and town." To requite their courtesy, Marmion, as he alighted,
hung about the neck of each a chain of twelve marks.

"Largesse, largesse, knight of the crest of gold!" cried the heralds, in
acknowledgment of the bounty received;

"'A blazon'd shield in battle won,
Ne'er guarded heart so bold.'"

As they marshalled him to the castle hall, the guests stood aside, and
again the trumpets flourished, and the heralds cried:

"'Room, lordlings, room for Lord Marmion,
With the crest and helm of gold!
Full well we know the trophies won
In the lists at Cottiswold:
There, vainly Ralph de Wilton strove