Having rid them of their shackles, he had just entered with his noble
company into the vaulted chamber, which contained the released Lord
Dundaff, when the peaceful clarion sounded. At the joyful tidings,
Graham started on his feet: "Now, my father, you shall see the bravest
of men!"
Chapter XXX.
The Barns of Ayr.
Morning was spreading in pale light over the heavens, and condensing
with its cold breath the lurid smoke which still ascended in volumes
from the burning ruins, when Wallace, turning round at the glad voice
of Edwin, beheld the released nobles. This was the first time he had
ever seen the Lords Dundaff and Ruthven; but several of the others he
remembered having met at the fatal decision of the crown; and, while
welcoming to his friendship those to whom his valor had given freedom,
how great was his surprise to see, in the person of a prisoner suddenly
brought before him, Sir John Monteith; the young chieftain whom he had
parted with a few months ago at Douglas; and from whose fatal
invitation to that castle he might date the ruin of his dearest
happiness, and all the succeeding catastrophe!
"We found Sir John Monteith amongst the slain before the palace," said
Ker; "he, of the whole party, alone breathed; I knew him instantly.
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