The two old champions who bore the standards had gradually advanced from the extremity of the lists, and now approached close to the immediate scene of action.

When they beheld the carnage more nearly, they were mutually impelled by the desire to revenge their brethren, or not to survive them.

They attacked each other furiously with the lances to which the standards were attached, closed after exchanging several deadly thrusts, then grappled in close strife, still holding their banners, until at length, in the eagerness of their conflict, they fell together into the Tay, and were found drowned after the combat, closely locked in each other's arms.

The fury of battle, the frenzy of rage and despair, infected next the minstrels.

The two pipers, who, during the conflict, had done their utmost to keep up the spirits of their brethren, now saw the dispute well nigh terminated for want of men to support it.