Wallace now saw no alternative but to remove her hence, even in this
insensible state; and, raising her gently in his arms, enveloped in the
silk coverlet, with cautious steps he bore her through the curtained
entrance, and passed the sleeping damsels into the anterooms. To meet
any of De Valence's men while in this situation would betray ll. To
avoid this, he hastened through the illuminated passages, and turning
into the apartment appointed for himself, laid the now reviving Helen
upon a couch. "Water," said she, "and I shall soon be myself again."
He gave her some, and at the same time laying a page's suit of clothes
(which Baliol had provided) beside her, "Dress yourself in these, Lady
Helen," said he; "I shall withdraw meanwhile into the passage, but your
safety depends on expedition."
Before she could answer he had disappeared. Helen instantly threw
herself on her knees to thank a higher power for this commencement of
her deliverance, and to beseech His blessing on its consummation. She
rose strengthened, and, obeying Wallace, the moment she was equipped,
she laid her hand upon the latch, but the watchful ear of her friend
heard her, and he immediately opened the door.
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