He seized upon the best apartments, and carried
himself with so much haughtiness that, provoked beyond endurance, I
ordered my horse and, accompanied by my honest courtiers, rode to Rouen
to obtain redress from the governor. But the unworthy Frenchman
advised me to go back, and by flattering De Valence try to regain the
favor of Edward. I retired in indignation, determined to assert my own
rights in my own castle, but the storm overtook me, and being forsaken
by false friends, I am saved by generous enemies."
Wallace explained his errand respecting Lady Helen, and anxiously
inquired of Baliol whether he meant to return to Galliard?
"Immediately," replied he; "go with me, and if the lady consents (which
I do not doubt, for she scorns his prayers for her hand, and passes
night and day in tears), I engage to assist in her escape."
Baliol then advised they should not all return to the castle together,
the sight of two knights of their appearance accompanying his host
being likely to alarm De Valence.
"The quietest way," continued the deposed king, "is the surest. Follow
me at a short distance, and toward the shadows of evening, knock at the
gates and request a night's entertainment.
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