Then the sweeping changes which followed the Norman Conquest wiped out all lesser records than its own.

To-day we must accept it as one of the earliest castles of the Conquest, probably not later than the time of Henry I.

Roman and Norman were both wise in their retention of places of approved strength or utility.

So it was that these surrounding heights, already established and to a certain extent proved, were retained.

Indeed, such characteristics as already pertained to them were preserved, and to-day afford to us lessons regarding things which have themselves long since passed away.
"So much for the fortified heights; but the hollows too have their own story.