From this point they rode back toward
the entrance and, looking down into the moat, saw that it was dry.
Turning again toward the postern, they noted the drawbridge there, and
wondered to see it down. "The postern gate is also ajar," observed De
Kellaw. The two now drew nearer and came even to the edge of the moat.
They looked in, but saw only bones and armor; for kites and eagles had
been at work, and nothing more remained of those who had perished there
in the waters.
"Some strange thing hath happened here, and wind of it is not yet gone
abroad," said De Skirlaw.
"Yea," agreed De Kellaw. "Darest thou venture across this bridge and in
at the postern gate?"
"I dare," responded De Skirlaw. Dismounting, the two secured their
horses by stakes driven into the earth, and then, on foot, crossed the
bridge.
Inside the baileys all was deserted. The stables were empty. No
footsteps but their own could be heard. No guard paced the walls. No
warder kept watch. There was only silence and emptiness in the great
hall, and no living creature was anywhere.
"Here be a mystery," said De Skirlaw.
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