"
He drew from an oaken chest a coat of black mail, studded with gold.
Helen admired its strength and beauty. "It is the richest in all
Scotland," answered he; "and was worn by our great Canmore in all his
victories."
"Then it is worthy its destination. Bring it, with its helmet and
sword, to my apartment."
The armorer took it up; and, accompanied by the page carrying the
lighter parts, followed her into the western tower.
When Helen was again alone, it being yet very early in the morning, she
employed herself in pluming the casque, and forming the scarf she meant
should adorn her present. Thus time flew, till the sand-glass told her
it was the eighth hour. But ere she had finished her task, she was
roused from the profound stillness in which that part of the castle
lay, by the doleful lament of the troop returning from Ellerslie.
She dropped the half-formed scarf from her hand; and listened, without
daring to draw her breath, to the deep-toned lamentations. She thought
that she had never before heard the dirge of her country so piercing,
so thrillingly awful. Her head fell on the armor and scarf. "Sweet
lady," sighed she to herself, "who is it that dares thus invade thy
duties? But my gratitude-gratitude to the once-loved lord, will not
offend thy pure spirit!" Again the mournful wailings rose on the air;
and with a convulsion of feelings she could not restrain, she threw
herself on her knees, and leaning her head on the newly-adorned helmet,
wept profusely.
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