"If Heaven have yet spared the lives of Wallace and my cousin, Andrew Murray, you will meet them before its walls.

Meanwhile I shall seek the protection of my father's sister, and in her castle near the Forth abide in safety.

But, noble stranger, one bond I must lay upon you; should you come up with my cousin, do not discover that you have met with me.

He is precipitate in resentment; and his hatred is so hot against Soulis, my betrayer, that should he know the outrage I have sustained he would, I fear, run himself and the general cause into danger by seeking an immediate revenge." The stranger readily passed his word to Helen that he would never mention her name to any of her family until she herself should give him leave.

"But when your father is restored to his rights," continued he, "in his presence I hope to claim my acquaintance with his admirable daughter." Helen blushed at this compliment--it was not more than any man in his situation might have said, but it confused her; and hardly knowing what were her thoughts, she answered-"His personal freedom may be effected, and God grant such a regard to your prowess! But his other rights, what can recover them?
His estates sequestrated, his vassals in bonds, all power of the Earl of Mar will be annihilated; and from some obscure refuge like this, must he utter his thanks to his daughter's preserver." "Not so, lady," replied he; "the sword is now raised in Scotland, that cannot be laid down till it be broken or has conquered.