Percy would have knighted me had I wished it, years ago; but plain Jock Forster I was born, and so will I die when my time comes; for it would alter my condition in no way, save that as Jock Forster I can lead a raid across the border, but as Sir John Forster it would be hardly seemly for me to do so, save when there is open war between the countries.
"It is different, in your case; You are young, and can fit yourself to another mode of life; and can win for yourself, with your sword, a better fortune than you will inherit from me.

Besides, lad, I am like enough, unless a Baird spear finishes me sooner, to live another thirty years yet; and it is always sure to lead to trouble, if there are two cocks in one farmyard.

You would have your notions as to how matters should be done, and I should have mine; and so, for many reasons, it is right that you should go out into the world.

If matters go well with you, all the better; if not, you will always be welcome back here, and will be master when I am gone.
"What say you ?" "It comes suddenly upon me, Father; but, as I have always thought that I should like to see something of the world beyond our own dales, I would gladly, for a time at least, accept my uncle's offer; which is a rare one, and far beyond my hopes.

I should be sorry to leave you and my mother but, save for that it seems to me, as to you, that it would be best for me to go out into the world, for a time." "Then that is settled, and tomorrow you shall ride to Alnwick and see, at any rate, if aught comes of the matter.
"Do not cry, Wife.