Biographical and Historical: Walter Scott was born in Edinburgh, in 1771. He loved the romance of Scotland's history and legends. A collection of legendary ballads, songs, and traditions, published by him early in life met with such immediate success that it confirmed him in his resolution to devote himself to literary pursuits. The two selections here given, are taken from his second metrical romance, "Marmion." Later Scott turned his attention to prose and became the creator of the historical novel, of which "Ivanhoe," "Kenilworth," and "Woodstock" are conspicuous examples. He died in 1832, and lies buried in one of the most beautiful ruins in Scotland, Dryburgh Abbey. Notes and Questions. Find Esk River and Solway Firth on your map. Scott describes the tides of Solway Firth in Chapter IV of his novel, "Redgauntlet." Compare the rhythm with that in "How They Brought the Good News." What impression of Lochinvar do the opening stanzas give you? What purpose does the fourth stanza serve? Line 20--Explain this line. Line 46--What was the result? What picture does the sixth stanza give you? Which stanza do you like best? Which lines are most pleasing? "galliard"--a gay dance. "scaur"--steep bank of river. "clan"--a group of related families. Translate into your own words: "'They'll have fleet steeds that follow,' quoth young Lochinvar." Words and Phrases for Discussion. "laggard" "brake" "bar" "charger" "craven" "bonnet and plume" "dastard" "gallant" * * * * * THE PARTING OF MARMION AND DOUGLAS (From "Marmion.") SIR WALTER SCOTT Not far advanced was morning day, When Marmion did his troop array, To Surrey's camp to ride; He had safe conduct for his band, Beneath the royal seal and hand, And Douglas gave a guide. The train from out the castle drew, But Marmion stopped to bid adieu: "Though something I might 'plain," he said, "Of cold respect to stranger guest, Sent hither by your king's behest, While in Tantallon's towers I staid; Part we in friendship from your land, And, noble Earl, receive my hand." But Douglas round him drew his cloak, Folded his arms, and thus he spoke: "My manors, halls, and bowers shall still Be open, at my sovereign's will, To each one whom he lists, howe'er Unmeet to be the owner's peer. My castles are my king's alone, From turret to foundation stone; The hand of Douglas is his own; And never shall, in friendly grasp, The hand of such as Marmion clasp."