For on entering Dumbarton, and finding you were absent, after having briefly recounted my errand to Lord Lennox, I dared to interpret your mind, and to order Sir Alexander Scrymgeour, and Sir Roger Kirkpatrick, with all your own force, to follow me to the coast of Renfrew." "Thank you, my friend!" cried Wallace, grasping his hand; "may I ever have such interpreters! I cannot stay to bid your uncle farewell," said he, to Lord Andrew; "remain, to tell him to bless me with his prayers; and then, dear Murray, follow me to Ayr." Ignorant of what the stranger had imparted, at the sight of the chiefs approaching from the castle gate, Edward hastened with the news, that all was ready for embarkation.

He was hurrying out his information, when the altered countenance of his general checked him.

He looked at the stranger; his features were agitated and severe.

He turned toward his cousin, all there was grave and distressed.

Again he glanced at Wallace; no word was spoken, but every look threatened, and Edwin saw him leap into the boat, followed by the stranger.