So complete was the ignorance of the inhabitants as to the movements of the armies that at Abingdon the news of his coming was unknown, and Harry was astonished on the morning of the 27th at hearing a great trampling of horsemen.

Looking out, he beheld his father at the head of the troop, approaching the house.

With a shout of joy the lad rushed downstairs and met his father at the entrance.
"I did not look to be back so soon, Harry," Sir Henry said, as he alighted from his horse.

"We arrived at Oxford last night, and I am sent on with my troop to see that no Parliament bands are lurking in the neighborhood." Before entering the house the colonel dismissed his troop, telling them that until the afternoon they could return to their homes, but must then re-assemble and hold themselves in readiness to advance, should he receive further orders.

Then, accompanied by his officers, he entered the house.