Any whose places are so strong that they may well defend themselves, for some time, are to gather all their neighbours there.

The rest are to repair to Alnwick, to join Percy's force.
"You see, there is no knowing where the storm may break.

The Scots may cross the Cheviots anywhere between Berwick and Carlisle; and, until their movements are known, the earl and Hotspur must keep their forces at Alnwick, in readiness to march wheresoever required.
"Hotspur has sent messengers down to the Midlands, to engage as many archers as he can get.

Of course, we have many here; but the borderers are spearmen rather than archers, and it were well to strengthen our force.

Still, however large a force he may raise, we cannot hope to check their first incursion.