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The Scottish Chiefs by Jane Porter
page 27 of 980 (02%)

As she spoke, there was a violent crash, and a tremendous burst of
imprecations. Three of Wallace's men ran panting into the room. Two
of the assailants had climbed to the hall window; and had just been
thrown back upon the cliffs, where one was killed. "Conceal yourself,
said the Scots to Wallace; "for in a few minutes more your men will not
be able to maintain the gates."

"Yes, my dear lord," cried Halbert, "there is a dry well at the end of
the garden; at the bottom of that you will be safe."

"By your love for me, Wallace-by all you owe to the tender affections
of your grandfather, hearken to him!" cried Lady Marion, falling at his
feet, and clasping his knees. "I kneel for my life in kneeling for
yours! Pity the gray hairs of Sir Ronald, whom your untimely death
would bring to the grave! Pity your unborn child! Fly, Wallace, fly
if you would have me live!" She was pale and breathless.

"Angel of my life," exclaimed Wallace, straining her to his heart, "I
obey thee. But if the hand of one of the desperate robbers dares to
touch thy hallowed person-"

"Think not so, my lord," interrupted Halbert; "it is you they seek.
Not finding you, they will be too eager in pursuit to molest your lady."

"I shall be safe," whispered Marion; "only fly-while you are here,
their shouts kill me."

"But thou shalt go with me," returned he; "the well will contain us
all. But first let our faithful Halbert and these honest fellows lower
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