During our fine summer months my lady and I undertook a tour of the
English border. After a brief respite in the Scottish borders we crossed
into England.
Weary from our travels we were welcomed into the town of Carlisle. We
approached the constable of the Castle for hospitality but due to recent
border activity we were received with hostility, and had to make a swift
departure from the town. We then sought shelter from a prior who we had
heard was hospitable. We were received warmly and dined well in the priors
accommodation at Lanercost. To replenish our stores we traded with local
swindlers, who reside in that misbegotten place known better as Penrith.
Travelling south we noticed the imposing fortresses of Brougham and Brough
and chose to continue without delay. Again we met a most holy abbot at
Egglestone who needed gentle persuasion in providing us with
accommodation. But was most forthcoming when adequately motivated. We
chose to avoid the nearby market town of Barnard Castle due to its
imposing curtain wall, friendly citizens (who may have delayed our
departure permanently) and royal connections.
We chose not to venture further south for fears of our safety and
continued towards the west to see the holy and wealthy brothers of Furness
Abbey. After a long journey over many hills we reached the abbey but were
greet less than favourably. It seemed that a recent visit by a well known
Scots lord resulted in the depletion of the abbot's purse and larder.
Persuasion availed us nought, but a contribution to the holy brothers for
the restoration of their larder gained us entry to their grand guest
house, where we rested for many nights being treated to excellent vitals.
We then continued our journey east, the tales of which we will regale at a
later date.