"(Signed)
Edward, P.W."
"Baron," cried Wallace, "it would be beneath the dignity of Scotland,
to retaliate this act with the like conduct. The exchange of prisoners
shall yet be made, and the armistice held sacred on the borders. But,
as I hold the door of war open in the interior of the country, before
the Earl de Warenne leaves this citadel (and it shall be on the day
assigned), please the Almighty Lord of Justice, the Southron usurpers
of all our castles on the eastern shore shall be our hostages for the
safety of Lord Douglas."
"And this is my answer, noble Wallace?"
"It is; and you see no more of me till that which I have said is done."
Baron Hilton withdrew. And Wallace, turning to his peers, rapidly made
dispositions for a sweeping march from frith to frith; and having sent
those who were to accompany him to prepare for departure next day at
dawn, he retired with the Lords Mar and Bothwell to arrange affairs
relative to the prisoners.
Chapter XL.
The Governor's Apartments.
The sun rose on Wallace and his brave legions as they traversed the
once romantic glades of Strathmore; but now the scene was changed.
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