In truth, the whole aspect of the house reminded John of a stronghold.

The narrow hall was floored with stone, the walls were stone and the light was dim.

Lannes divined John's thoughts.
"You'll find it more cheerful, presently," he said.

"As for us, we're used to it, and we love it, although it's so old and cold and dark.

It goes back at least five centuries." "I suppose some king must have slept here once," said John.