But for this a leader was needed, and until such a one appeared the people rested quiet and bided their time.
From time to time there came to Glen Cairn tales of the doings of that William Wallace who had, when the English first garrisoned the Scottish castles, while Edward was choosing between the competitors for her throne, killed young Selbye at Dundee, and had been outlawed for the deed.

After that he went and resided with his uncle, Sir Ronald Crawford, and then with another uncle, Sir Richard Wallace of Riccarton.

Here he gathered a party of young men, eager spirits like himself, and swore perpetual hostility to the English.
One day Wallace was fishing in the Irvine when Earl Percy, the governor of Ayr, rode past with a numerous train.

Five of them remained behind and asked Wallace for the fish he had taken.

He replied that they were welcome to half of them.