The keep and inner ballium was still their own as a place of retreat, however short a period it might remain so.

A brave defence, a glorious death would still do much for Scotland.
Shouts, cheers, blessings on his name awoke in answer, as unfalteringly, as bravely as those of the advancing foes.

Prancing, neighing, rearing, the superb charger was at length brought to the dauntless leader.
"Not thus, my lord; in heaven's name, do not mount thus, unarmed, bareheaded as thou art!" exclaimed several voices, and two or three of his esquires crowded round him.

"Retire but for a brief space within the church." "And turn my back upon my foes, Hubert; not for worlds! No, no; bring me the greaves, gauntlets, and helmet here, if thou wilt, and an they give me time, I will arm me in their very teeth.

Haste ye, my friends, if ye will have it so; for myself these garments would serve me well enough;" but ere he ceased to speak they had flown to obey, and returned ere a dozen more of the English had made their way across the crumbling wall.
Coolly, composedly, Nigel threw aside his mantle and doublet, and permitted his esquires to assist in arming him, speaking at the same time in a tone so utterly unconcerned, that ere their task was finished, his coolness had extended unto them.