We
urge you no further to reveal what such innate bravery must shortly
proclaim in the most honorable manner."
The whole of the troop having ascended, while their wives, children,
and friends were rejoicing in their embraces, Wallace asked some
questions relative to Bothwell, and Murray briefly related the
disasters which had happened there.
"My father," added he, "is still with the Lord of Loch-awe; and thither
I sent to request him to dispatch to the Cartlane Craigs all the
followers he took with him into Argyleshire. But as things are, would
it not be well to send a second messenger, to say that you have sought
refuge in Glenfinlass?"
"Before he could arrive," returned Wallace, "I hope we shall be where
Lord Bothwell's reinforcements may reach us by water. Our present
object must be the Earl of Mar. He is the first Scottish earl who has
hazarded his estates and life for Scotland; and as her best friend, his
liberation must be our first enterprise. In my circuit through two or
three eastern counties, a promising increase has been made to our
little army. The Frasers of Oliver Castle have given me two hundred
men; and the brave Sir Alexander Scrymgeour, whom I met in West
Lothian, has not only brought fifty stout Scots to my command, but, as
hereditary standard-bearer of the kingdom, has come himself to carry
the royal banner of Scotland to glory or oblivion.
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