"
This was granted, and immediately preparations were made for the
admission of the Scots. As the enraptured Edwin heard the heavy chains
of the portcullis drawn up, and the massy bolts of the huge doors
grating in their guards, he thought of his mother's liberty, of his
father's joy, in pressing her again in his arms; and hastening to the
tower where Lord Ruthven held watch over the now sleeping De Valance,
he told him all that had happened. "Go, my father," added he; "enter
with Murray, and be the first to open the prison doors of my mother."
Lord Ruthven embraced his son. "My dear Edwin! this sacrifice to my
feelings is worthy of you. But I have a duty to perform, superior even
to the tenderest private ones. I am planted hereby my commander; and
shall I quit my station, for any gratification, till he gives me leave?
No, my son! Be you my representative to your mother; and while my
example teaches you, above all earthly considerations, to obey your
honor, those tender embraces will show her what I sacrifice to duty."
Edwin no longer urged his father, and leaving his apartment, flew to
the gate of the inner ballium. It was open; and Murray already stood
on the platform before the keep, receiving the keys to the garrison.
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