[21] The small lake called Scales-tarn, which lies so deeply embosomed
in the recesses of the huge mountain called Saddleback, more
poetically Blencathara, is of such great depth, and so completely
hidden from the sun, that it is said its beams never reach it,
and that the reflection of the stars may be seen on its surface
at mid-day.
[22] This was the name of King Arthur's well known sword, sometimes
also called Excalibar.
[23] Tintadgel Castle, in Cornwall, is reported to have been the
birthplace of King Arthur.
[24] The author has an indistinct recollection of an adventure
somewhat similar to that which is here ascribed to King Arthur,
having befallen one of the ancient Kings of Denmark. The horn in
which the burning liquor was presented to that Monarch is said
still to be preserved in the Royal Museum at Copenhagen.
[25] Zaharak, or Zaharah, is the Arab name of the Great Desert.