Read "Preston Fight" by William H. Ainsworth online for free on Textopian. Full text with search, annotations, highlights, and AI-powered reading aids.
Far from presenting a stern and threatening aspect to the rebels, the old town of Lancaster seemed to smile upon them as they approached it.
The sun shone brightly on the castle hill, giving a cheerful air to the ancient fortress that crowned it, and no cannon were planted at its walls. No militia, no dragoons, were drawn to dispute the passage of the bridge. On the contrary, a great number of ladies and gentlemen were collected there, mingled with the townsfolk -- most of whom were in their holiday attire -- to give them welcome.