Jealousy almost laid it
bare. She smiled incredulously, and turning to the company, "Our noble
friends will accept my apology, if in so delicate an investigation, I
should beg that my family alone may be present."
Wallace perceived the tendency of her words, and not doubting the
impression they might make on the minds of men ignorant of the virtues
of Lady Helen, he instantly rose. "For once," cried he, "I must
counteract a lady's orders. It is my wish, lords, that you will not
leave this place till I explain how I came to disturb the devotions of
Lady Helen. Wearied with festivities, in which my alienated heart can
so little share, I thought to pass an hour with Lord Montgomery in the
citadel; and in seeking to avoid the crowded avenues of the palace, I
entered the chapel. To my surprise, I found Lady Helen there, I heard
her pray for the happiness of Scotland, for the safety of her
defenders; and my mind being in a frame to join in such petitions, I
apologized for my unintentional intrusion, and begged permission to
mingle my devotions with hers. Nay, impressed and privileged by the
sacredness of the place, I presumed still further, and before the altar
of purity poured forth my gratitude for the duties she had paid to the
remains of my murdered wife.
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