CHAPTER LXXVI.
Hawthorndean.
Next morning, instead of coming as usual directly to their acknowledged
protector, the Lothian chieftains were seen at different parts of the
camp, closely conversing in groups; and when any of Wallace's officers
approached, they separated, or withdrew to a greater distance. This
strange conduct Wallace attributed to its right source, and thought of
Bruce with a sigh, when he contemplated the variable substance of these
men's minds. However, he was so convinced that nothing but the
proclamation of Bruce, and that prince's personal exertions, could
preserve his country from falling again into the snare from which he
had just snatched it, that he was preparing to set out for Perthshire
with such persuasions, when Ker hastily entered his tent. He was
followed by the Lord Soulis, Lord Buchan, and several other chiefs of
equally hostile intentions. Soulis did not hesitate to declare his
errand.
"We come, Sir William Wallace, by the command of the regent, and the
assembled abthanes of Scotland, to take these brave troops, which have
performed such good service to their country, from the power of a man
who, we have every reason to believe, means to turn their arms against
the liberties of the realm.
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