Sir William Wallace; and to avenge the injuries of Scotland in Ayr, he
knocked off the chains of his amazed father. Eager to perform the like
service to all who had suffered in like manner, and accompanied by the
happy Lord Ruthven (who gazed with delight on his son, treading so
early the path of glory), he hastened around to the other dungeons; and
gladly proclaimed to the astonished inmates, freedom and safety.
Having rid them of their shackles, he had just entered with his noble
company into the vaulted chamber, which contained the released Lord
Dundaff, when the peaceful clarion sounded. At the joyful tidings,
Graham started on his feet: "Now, my father, you shall see the bravest
of men!"


Chapter XXX.

The Barns of Ayr.



Morning was spreading in pale light over the heavens, and condensing
with its cold breath the lurid smoke which still ascended in volumes
from the burning ruins, when Wallace, turning round at the glad voice
of Edwin, beheld the released nobles. This was the first time he had
ever seen the Lords Dundaff and Ruthven; but several of the others he
remembered having met at the fatal decision of the crown; and, while
welcoming to his friendship those to whom his valor had given freedom,
how great was his surprise to see, in the person of a prisoner suddenly
brought before him, Sir John Monteith; the young chieftain whom he had
parted with a few months ago at Douglas; and from whose fatal
invitation to that castle he might date the ruin of his dearest