He drew toward her, and in a moderated voice continued: "My men, though few, are brave.

They are devoted to their country, and are willing for her sake to follow me to victory or to death.

As I am a knight, I am sworn to defend the cause of right; and where shall I so justly find it, as on the side of bleeding, wasted Scotland?
How shall I so well pursue my career as in the defense of her injured sons?
Speak, gentle lady! trust me with your noble father's name, and he shall not have cause to blame the confidence you repose in a true though wandering Scot!" "My father," replied Helen, weeping afresh, "is not where your generous services can reach him.

Two brave chiefs, one a kinsman of my own, and the other his friend, are now colleagued to free him.

If they fail, my whole house falls in blood! and to add another victim to the destiny which in that case will overwhelm me--the thought is beyond my strength." Faint with agitation, and the horrible images which reawakened her direst fears, she stopped; and then added in a suppressed voice, "Farewell!" "Not till you hear me further," replied he.