Chapter 1

Pike- medieval weapon consisting of a spearhead attached to a long pole or pikestaff; superseded by the bayonet Peat- Soil formed of dead but not fully decayed flora found in bog areas Precipice- a very steep cliff Beadle- a parish constable, a uniformed minor (lay) official, who ushers and keeps order; an attendant to the minister; a warrant officer Granite- plutonic igneous rock having visibly crystalline texture; generally composed of feldspar and mica and quartz Inherited- Obtained via an inheritance Livery- the care (feeding and stabling) of horses for pay Strode- Simple past of stride Rampart- A defensive mound of earth or a wall with a broad top and usually a stone parapet; a wall-like ridge of earth, stones or debris; an embankment for defensive purpose; Shied- a protective covering or structure