It
is this eternal spirit of hope, infused into him by Heaven itself, that
makes him rise from sorrow, like the sun from a cloud, brighter, and
with more ardent beams. It is this that bathes his lips in the smiles
of Paradise, that throws a divine luster over his eyes, and makes all
dream of love and happiness that look upon him."
Edwin paused. "Is it not so, my cousin?"
Helen raised her thoughtful face. "He is not a being of this earth,
Edwin. We must learn to imitate him, as well as to-" She hesitated,
then added, "As well as to revere him, I do before the altars of the
saints. But not to worship," said she, interrupting herself; "that
would be a crime. To look on him as a glorious example of patient
suffering-of invincible courage in the behalf of truth and mercy! This
is the end of my reverence for him, and this sentiment, my dear Edwin,
you partake."
"It possesses me wholly," cried the energetic youth; "I have no
thought, no wish, nor ever move or speak, but with the intent to be
like him. He calls me his brother! and I will be so in soul, though I
cannot in blood; and then, my dear Helen, you shall have two Sir
William Wallaces to love!"
"Sweetest, sweetest boy!" cried Helen, putting her quivering lips to
his forehead; "you will then always remember that Helen so dearly loves
Scotland as to be jealous, above all earthly things, for the lord
regent's safety.
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