He was a rude son of a rude country,--rude of hand, often rude of tongue, untutored in the graces that give beauty to life.
By the time that Ralph had attained to the full maturity of his manhood, the struggles of King and Parliament were at their height.
The rumor of these struggles was long in reaching the city of Wythburn, and longer in being discussed and understood there; but, to everybody's surprise, young Ralph Ray announced his intention of forthwith joining the Parliamentarian forces.

The extraordinary proposal seemed incredible; but Ralph's mind was made up.

His father said nothing about his son's intentions, good or bad.

The lad was of age; he might think for himself.

In his secret heart Angus liked the lad's courage.