For this treachery, Philip was to
endow him with the sovereignty of Scotland; and, as a pledge of the
compact, he had invested him with the principality of Gascony in
France. "This is the groundwork of his treason," continued Athol; "but
the superstructure is to be cemented with our blood. I have seen a
list, in his own handwriting, of those chiefs whose lives are to pave
his way to the throne."
At this point of the charge Edwin sprung forward; but Wallace,
perceiving the intent of his movement, caught him by the arm, and, by a
look, reminded him of his recently repeated engagement to keep silent.
"Produce the list," cried Lord Lennox. "No evidence that does not
bring proof to our eyes ought to have any weight with us against the
man who had bled in every vein for Scotland."
"It shall be brought to your eyes," returned Athol; "that, and other
damning proofs, shall convince this credulous country of its abused
confidence."
"I see these damning proofs now!" cried Kirkpatrick, who had frowningly
listened to Athol; "the abusers of my country's confidence betray
themselves at this moment by their eagerness to impeach her friends;
and I pray Heaven, that before they mislead others into so black a
conspiracy, the lie in their throats may choke its inventors!"
"We all know," cried Athol, turning on Kirkpatrick, "to whom you
belong.
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