At Dunfermline he was stricken with horror by the
information that treason had been alleged against Wallace, and turning
his steps westward, he flew to give that support to his friend's
innocence which the malignity of his enemies might render needful.
"The moment I heard how you were beset," continued Bothwell, "I
dispatched a messenger to Lord Ruthven, warning him not to alarm Bruce
with such tidings, but to send hither all the spare forces in
Perthshire, to maintain you in your rights."
"No force, my dear Bothwell, must be used so hold me in a power which
now would only keep alive a spirit of discord in my country. If I dare
apply the words of my Divine Master, I would say, I came not to bring a
sword but peace to the people of Scotland! Then, if they are weary of
me, let me go. Bruce will recover, they will rally round his standard,
and all be well."
"Oh, Wallace! Wallace!" cried Bothwell, "the scene I have this day
witnessed is enough to make a traitor of me. I could forswear my
insensible country--I could immolate its ungrateful chieftains on those
very lands which your generous arm restored to these worthless men!"
He threw himself into a seat, and leaned his burning forehead against
his hand.
Pages:
1060
1061
1062
1063
1064
1065
1066
1067
1068
1069
1070
1071
1072
1073
1074
1075
1076
1077
1078
1079
1080
1081
1082
1083
1084