How thinkest thou Edward of England will brook this daring act of defiance, of what he will deem rank apostasy and traitorous rebellion?
Aged, infirm as he is now, he will not permit this bold attempt to pass unpunished.

The whole strength of England will be gathered together, and pour its devastating fury on this devoted land.

And what to this has Robert to oppose?
Were he undisputed sovereign of Scotland, we might, without cowardice, be permitted to tremble, threatened as he is; but confined, surrounded by English, with scarce a town or fort to call his own, his enterprise is madness, Isabella, patriotic as it may be." "Oh, do not say so, Mary.

Has he not some noble barons already by his side?
will not, nay, is not Scotland rising to support him?
hath he not the hearts, the prayers, the swords of all whose mountain homes and freeborn rights are dearer than the yoke of Edward?
and hath he not, if rumor speaks aright, within himself a host--not mere valor alone, but prudence, foresight, military skill--all, all that marks a general ?" "As rumor speaks.

Thou dost not know him then ?" inquired Lady Campbell.
"How could I, dearest?
Hast thou forgotten thy anxiety that we should meet, when we were last together, holding at naught, in thy merry mood, my betrothment to Lord John--that I should turn him from his wandering ways, and make him patriotic as myself?
Thou seest, Mary, thy brother needed not such influence." "Of a truth, no," answered her friend; "for his present partner is a very contrast to thyself, and would rather, by her weak and trembling fears, dissuade him from his purpose than inspire and encourage it.