Lord Graham, who,
with myself, was appointed judge of the field; it was fairly won, and
Sir Philip is the conqueror. After he had gained the victory he declared
at large the cause of the quarrel, and that he had revenged the death
of Arthur Lord Lovel his friend, whom the present Lord Lovel had
assassinated, that he might enjoy his title and estate. The wounded man
confessed the fact; and Sir Philip gave him his life, and only carried
off his sword as a trophy of his victory. Both the victor and the
vanquished were conveyed to Lord Graham's castle, where the Lord Lovel
now lies in great danger. He is desirous to settle his worldly affairs,
and to make his peace with God and man. Sir Philip Harclay says there
is a male heir of the house of Lovel, for whom he claims the title and
estate; but he is very desirous that your Lordship should be present at
the disposal of your brother's property that of right belongs to him,
of which your children are the undoubted heirs. He also wants to consult
you in many other points of honour and equity. Let me intreat you, on
the receipt of this letter, to set out immediately for Lord Graham's
castle, where you will be received with the utmost respect and
hospitality. You will hear things that will surprise you as much as they
do me; you will judge of them with that justice and honour that speaks
your character; and you will unite with us in wondering at the ways of
Providence, and submitting to its decrees, in punishing the guilty, and
doing justice to the innocent and oppressed. My best wishes and prayers
attend you and your hopeful family. My lord, I remain your humble
servant,

"CLIFFORD."

Every one present expressed the highest approbation of this letter.
Sir Philip gave orders to John Wyatt to be very circumspect in his
behaviour, to give Edmund's letter privately to father Oswald, and to
make no mention of him, or his pretensions to Lovel Castle.

Lord Clifford gave his servant the requisite precautions. Lord Graham
added a note of invitation, and sent it by a servant of his own. As soon
as all things were ready, the messengers set out with all speed for the
Castle of Lovel.

They stayed no longer by the way than to take some refreshment, but rode
night and day till they arrived there.

Lord Fitz-Owen was in the parlour with his children; Father Oswald was
walking in the avenue before the house, when he saw three messengers
whose horses seemed jaded, and the riders fatigue