Edwin was speaking to Wallace.

"What does he tell you ?" said she; "that my lord has left me in displeasure?
Alas! he comprehends not a mother's anxiety for her sole remaining child.

One of my sweet twins, my dear daughter, died on my being brought a prisoner to this horrid fortress, and to lose this also would be more than I could bear.

Look at this babe," cried she, holding it up to him; "let it plead to you for its life! Guard it, noble Wallace, whatever may become of me!" The appeal of a mother made instant way to Sir William's heart; even her weaknesses, did they point to anxiety respecting her offspring, were sacred with him.

"What would you have me do, madam?
If you fear to remain here, tell me where you think you would be safer, and I will be your conductor ?" She paused to repress the triumph with which this proposal filled her, and then, with downcast eyes, replied: "In the seagirt Bute stands Rothsay, a rude, but strong castle of my lord's.