Helen had believed his declaration to her, and bowed her head in sign
that she was satisfied with his zeal. The earl, addressing Wallace,
continued: "Could I have purchased thy life, thou preserver of mine,
with the forfeiture of all I possess I should have rejoiced in the
exchange. But as that may not be, is there aught in the world which I
can do to administer to thy wishes?"
"Generous Gloucester!" exclaimed Wallace, "how unwearied has been your
friendship! But I shall not tax it much further. I was writing my
last wishes when this angel entered my apartment; she will now be the
voice of William Wallace to his friends. But still I must make one
request to you--one which I trust will not be out of your power. Let
this heart, ever faithful to Scotland, be at least buried in its native
country. When I cease to breathe, give it to Helen, and she will
mingle it with the sacred dust of those I love. For herself, dear
Gloucester! ah! guard the vestal purity and life of my best beloved!
for there are those who, when I am gone, may threaten both."
Gloucester, who knew that in this apprehension Wallace meant the Lords
Soulis and De Valence, pledged himself for the performance of his first
request; and for the second, he assured him he would protect Helen as a
sister.
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