He said how sad it was that you, who might be King of a Scotland free and independent, by the choice of her people, should prefer the chance of reigning, a mere puppet of Edward, over an enslaved land.
He spoke in the highest terms of your person, and held that, did you place yourself at its head, the movement which he commands would be a successful one.

Then I determined, unknown to him, to set out and bring you to him face to face--honourably and with courtesy if you would, by force if you would not.

I would fain it shall be the former; but believe me, you would not find it easy to break away through the hedge of pikes now around you." By this time the whole party had gathered round the horsemen.

Bruce hesitated; his mind was not yet made up as to his future course.
Hitherto he had been with England, since upon Edward only his chances seemed to depend; but latterly he had begun to doubt whether even Edward could place him on the throne in despite of the wishes of his countrymen.

His sisters, who, taking after their mother, were all true Scotchwomen, now urged upon him to comply with Archie's request and accompany him to Lanark.