Page:Speeches and addresses by the late Thomas E Ellis M P.pdf/20

 powers of recovery of the Cymry. So he built that chain of stupendous and magnificent castles along the border and round the coasts of Wales to guarantee for ever the utter subjugation of the Welsh people. But there they stand to-day in splendid ruins, monuments to the vitality and resurgence of Welsh nationality. While Edward's feudalism was proudly enthroned in these castles, there lay deep in the hearts of the oppressed Cymry undying resentment and inextinguishable hope. When Glyndwr boldly raised his standard in 1400 to commence his fifteen years' struggle, Welshmen flocked to him. Welsh students left the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge, inspired by his leadership, to fight their country's battle. Castle after castle fell to his hands. The garrison towns were taken and garrison monasteries burnt. Henry IV. was repeatedly hurled back.

"Three times hath Henry Bolingbroke made head Against my power: thrice from the banks of Wye And sandy bottomed Severn have I sent Him bootless home and weather beaten back."