He began to inquire of his household where strange lumber was kept.

Several of the men spoke of old Simon Chester as one who knew everything in and about the house.
Accordingly, he sent for the old man, who came at once.

He was very old, nearly ninety years of age, and very infirm.

He had been born in the Castle, and had served its succession of masters--present or absent--ever since.

When Edgar began to question him on the subject regarding which he had sent for him, old Simon exhibited much perturbation.