stammered forth a few expressions of obligation; he attributed her
confusion to the surprise of the moment, and, replying to her
respectfully, turned again to the earl.

The joy of the venerable chief was unbounded, when he found that a
handful of Scots had put two thousand Southrons to flight, and gained
entire possession of the castle. Wallace, having satisfied the anxious
questions of his noble auditor, gladly perceived the morning light. He
rose from his seat. "I shall take a temporary leave of you, my lord,"
said he to the earl; "I must now visit my brave comrades at their
posts, and see the colors of Scotland planted on the citadel."


Chapter XXIV.

The Great Tower.



When Wallace withdrew, Lady Mar, who had detained Murray, whispered to
him, while a blush stained her cheek, that she should like to be
present at the planting of the standard. Lord Mar declared his
willingness to accompany her to the spot, and added, "I can be
supported thither by the arm of Andrew." Murray hesitated. "It will
be impossible for my aunt to go; the hall below, and the ground before
the tower, are covered with slain."

"Let them be cleared away!" cried she; "for I cannot consent to be
deprived of a spectacle so honorable to my country."