Chapel in Snawdoun.
Though burning with stifled passions, Earl de Valence accepted the
invitation of Lady Mar. He hoped to see Helen, to gain her ear for a
few minutes; and, above all, to find some opportunity during the
entertainment of taking his meditated revenge on Wallace. The dagger
seemed the surest way; for could he render the blow effectual, he
should not only destroy the rival of his wishes, but, by ridding his
monarch of a powerful foe, deserve every honor at the royal hands.
Love and ambition again swelled his breast; and with recovered spirits,
and a glow on his countenance, which reawakened hope had planted there,
he accompanied De Warenne to the palace.
The hall for the feast was arrayed with feudal grandeur. The seats at
the table, spread for the knights of both countries, were covered with
highly-wrought stuffs; while the emblazoned banners and other armorial
trophies of the nobles being hung aloft according to the degree of the
owner, each knight saw his precedence, and where to take his place.
The most costly means, with the royally attired peacock served up in
silver and gold dishes, and wine of the rarest quality, sparkled on the
board.
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