"
As he spoke they entered the barbican; and Wallace (whom the
penetrating eye of Lennox had already singled out for the chief)
advanced to meet his guest.
"Earl," said he, "you are welcome to Dumbarton Castle."
"Bravest of my countrymen!" returned Lennox, clasping him in his arms,
"receive a soldier's embrace, receive the gratitude of a loyal heart!
accept my service, my arms, my men: my all I devote to Scotland and the
great cause."
Wallace for a moment did not answer; but warmly straining the earl to
his breast, said, as he released him, "Such support will give sinews to
our power. A few months, and with the blessing of that arm which has
already mowed down the ranks which opposed us, we shall see Scotland at
liberty."
"And may Heaven, brave Wallace!" exclaimed Lennox, "grant us thine arm
to wield its scythe! But how have you accomplished this? How have
your few overthrown this English host?"
"He strikes home, when right points his sword," replied Wallace; "the
injuries of Scotland were my guide, and justice my companion. We
feared nothing, for God was with us; we feared nothing, and in his
might we conquered."
"And shall yet conquer!" cried Lennox, kindling with the enthusiasm
that blazed from the eyes of Wallace.
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