Although imaginary, Myton Tower commemorates the many 14th century Anglo-Scots battles. Part cottage, part castle, it is the sort of building that could well have emerged from the ruins of an earlier castle, perhaps ruined after the Battle of Myton in 1319, and long since forgotten.
   Four years after their victory at Bannockburn in 1314, the Scots captured Berwick-upon-Tweed. The following year, Edward II retaliated by laying siege to the town. An army of several thousand Scots subsequently headed for Edward's court at York, where they planned to abduct the young Queen Isabella and hold her hostage. They were camped at Myton, thirteen miles from York, before the English became aware of their intentions. A hasitly improvised English army didn't stand a chance against the verteran Scots and by the end of the day, 4,000 men, most of whom were English, lay dead.
   David envisages Myton Tower as the home of a wealthy and enlightened man who has decreed that all in his service should be educated. No wonder his servant is happy as he drives his cart to York market where, with his knowledge of bartering the the value of the realm's coinage, he is a valuable asset to his master on market day.