Our huge fragments of rocks have dealt destruction on one of their towers, crushing all who manned it beneath the ruins." "And I lie here when such brave work is going on beside me, even as a bedridden monk or coward layman, when my whole soul is in the fight," said the knight, bitterly, and half springing from his couch.

"When will these open wounds--to the foul fiend with them and those who gave them!--when will they let me mount and ride again as best befits a warrior?
Better slain at once than lie here a burden, not a help--taking from those whose gallant efforts need it more the food we may not have for long.

I will not thus be chained; I'll to the action, be my life the forfeit!" He sprung up, and for a moment stood upon his feet, but with a low groan of pain instantly fell back, the dew of weakness gathering on his brow.
Lady Seaton was at his side on the instant to bathe his temples and his hands, yet without one reproachful word, for she knew the anguish it was to his brave heart to lie thus disabled, when every loyal hand was needed for his country.
"Nigel, I would that I might join thee.

Remember, 'tis no mean game we play; we hold not out as marauding chieftains against a lawful king; we struggle not in defence of petty rights, of doubtful privileges.

'Tis for Scotland, for King Robert still we strive.