CHAPTER II.
The Earles, of Earlescourt, were one of the oldest families in England.
The "Barony of Earle" is mentioned in the early reigns of the Tudor kings.

They never appeared to have taken any great part either in politics or warfare.

The annals of the family told of simple, virtuous lives; they contained, too, some few romantic incidents.

Some of the older barons had been brave soldiers; and there were stories of hair-breadth escapes and great exploits by flood and field.

Two or three had taken to politics, and had suffered through their eagerness and zeal; but, as a rule, the barons of Earle had been simple, kindly gentlemen, contented to live at home upon their own estates, satisfied with the duties they found there, careful in the alliances they contracted, and equally careful in the bringing up and establishment of their children.