Oh, my dear commander, let me only carry to the grave the consciousness that, next to yourself, I was the first to mount the rock of Dumbarton, and you will make me noble indeed!" Wallace looked at him with a smile of such graciousness, that the youth threw himself into his arms.

"You will grant my boon ?" "I will, noble boy," said he; "act up to your sentiments, and you shall be my brother." "Call me by that name," cried Edwin, "and I will dare anything." "Then be the first to follow me on the rock," said he, "and I will lead you to an honor, the highest in my gift; you shall unloose the chains of the Earl of Mar! And ye," continued he, "commemorate the duty of such sons.

Being the first to strike the blow for her freedom, ye shall be the first she will distinguish.

I now speak as her minister; and, as a badge to times immemorial, I bid you wear the Scottish lion on your shields." A shout of proud joy issued from every heart; and Wallace, seeing that honor had dried the tears of regret, left them to repose.

He sent Edwin to his rest; and himself, avoiding the other chieftains, retired to his own chamber in the tower..