And has Edward ever frowned on one of those despots, who, in his name,
have for these two years past laid Scotland in blood and ashes?"
The appeal was too strong for Montgomery to answer; he felt its truth,
and bowed, with an expression in his face that told more than, as a
subject of England, he dared declare.
The late respectful silence was turned into the clamorous activity of
eager obedience. The prisoners were conducted to the rear of Stirling;
while the major part of the Scots (leaving a detachment to unburden the
earth of its bleeding load), returned in front to the gates, just as De
Warenne's division appeared on the horizon, like a moving cloud gilded
by the now setting sun. At this sight Wallace sent Edwin into the town
with Lord Montgomery, and marshaling his line, prepared to bear down
upon the approaching earl.
But the lord warden had received information which fought better for
the Scots than a host of swords. When advanced a very little onward on
the Carse of Stirling, one of his scouts brought intelligence that
having approached the south side of the Forth, he had seen that river
floating with dead bodies; and soon after met Southron horns blowing
the notes of victory.
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