Did this castle hold out, aye, compel the foe to raise the siege, much, much would be done for Scotland.

Others would do as we have done; many, whose strongholds rest in English hands, would rise and expel the foe.

Had we but reinforcements of men and stores, all might still be well." "Aye," answered Nigel, bitterly, "but with all Scotland crushed 'neath English chains, her king and his bold patriots fugitives and exiles, ourselves the only Scottish force in arms, the only Scottish castle which resists the tyrant, how may this be, whence may come increase of force, of store?
Seaton Seaton, thine are bright dreams--would that they were real." "Wouldst thou then give up at once, and strive no more?
It cannot be." "Never!" answered his companion, passionately.

"Ere English feet shall cross these courts and English colors wave above these towers, the blood of the defenders must flow beneath their steps.

They gain not a yard of earth save at the bright sword's point; not a rood of grass unstained by Scottish blood.