And
the king was listening to them, with what temper I know not, when a
private embassy, as opportunely, made its appearance from France, on
the same errand; in short, to negotiate with Edward for the safety of
our friend, as a prince of that realm. I left the embassadors,"
continued the earl, turning to Wallace, "in debate with his majesty;
and he has at length granted a suspension--nay, has even promised a
repeal of the horrible injustice that was to be completed to-morrow, if
you can be brought to accord with certain proposals, now to be laid
before you. Accept them, and Edward will comply with all King Philip's
demands in your behalf."
"Then you will accept them!" cried Helen, in a tumult of suspense. The
communication of Gloucester had made no change in the equable pulse of
Wallace; and he replied, with a look of tender pity upon her animated
countenance. "The proposals of Edward are too likely to be snares for
that honor which I would bear with me uncontaminated to the grave.
Therefore, dearest consoler of my last hours, do not give way to hopes
which a greater King than Edward may command me to disappoint." Helen
bowed her head in silence.
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