Its glowing reflection on the distant hills reminded Wallace of the stretch he had to retread to reach his home before midnight; and thinking of his anxious Marion, he awaited with impatience the development of the object of his journey.
Monteith closed the door, looked fearfully around for some time; then, trembling at every step, approached Wallace.

When drawn quite near, in a low voice he said, "You must swear upon the cross that you will keep inviolate the secret I am going to reveal." Wallace put aside the hilt of the sword which Monteith presented to receive his oath.

"No," said he, with a smile; "in these times I will not bind my conscience on subjects I do not know.

If you dare trust the word of a Scotsman and a friend, speak out; and if the matter be honest, my honor is your pledge." "You will not swear ?" "No." "Then I must not trust you." "Then our business is at an end," returned Wallace, rising, "and I may return home." "Stop!" cried Monteith.

"Forgive me, my old companion, that I have dared to hesitate.