“On the borders of Lancashire and Westmoreland, two centuries since, stood Lynnwood, a picturesque mansion, still retaining something of the character of a fortified house. It was ever a matter of regret to its owner, Sir Marmaduke Carstairs, that his grandfather had so modified its construction, by levelling one side of the quadrangle, and inserting large mullion windows in that portion inhabited by the family, that it was in no condition to stand a siege, in the time of the Civil War.” This book belongs to the pen of a nineteenth century English author and journalist, George Alfred Henty, who wrote a prolific amount of children's stories during his lifetime, including A Knight of the White Cross. Being one of the most popular Victorian children's writers he remained in print for three generations of young British and American readers.