He called to Ker, for the messenger to be brought in. He entered.
Wallace inquired how long he had been from Stirling. "Only thirty-four
hours," replied the youth, adding that he had traveled night and day
for fear the news of the risings in Annandale, and the taking of
Berwick, should precipitate the earl's death.
"I accompany you this instant," cried Wallace! "Ker, see that the
troops get under arms." As he spoke he turned into the room where he
had left the Knight of Thirlestane.
"Sir Richard Maitland," said he, willing to avoid exciting his alarm,
"there is more work for us at Stirling. Lord Aymer de Valence has
again escaped the death we thought had overtaken him, and is now in
that citadel. I have just received a summons thither, which I must
obey." At these words, Sir Roger Kirkpatrick gave a shout and rushed
from the apartment. Wallace looked after him for a moment, and then
continued: "Follow us with your prayers, Sir Richard; and I shall not
despair of sending blessed tidings to the banks of the Lauder."
"What has happened?" inquired Murray, who saw that something more than
the escape of De Valence had been imparted to his general.
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