Page:History of King Robt. Bruce (1).pdf/11

KING ROBERT BRUCE 11 durst not sit down to take a moment's rest, for they still heard the cry of the bloodhound behind them. They at length arrived at a wood, through which ran a small rivulet, into whieh they plunged, and walked a considerable way down the stream — destroying in this manner the strong scent on whieh the dog had proeeeded—and did not halt to take any rest until they had gone far into the wood. Lorn, having lost the track of the king, now returned and joined Pembroke.

The king and his companion, having rested themselves in the wood, began to pursue their journey, in hopes of soon reaching a habitation where they might get some refreshment. In the midst of the forest, however, they met with three men, who had the appearanee of ruffians or thieves, and were all well armed. One of them had a sheep on his back, which they had just stolen from a neighbouring field. Having villy saluted the king, he replied to their salutation, and enquired whither they were going. "We are seeking for King Robert,"answered the ruffians," for we intend joining his standard." "If you will go with me," said Bruce, "I will conduct you to the Scottish king." Bruce observing the man who had spoken change colour, looked sharply at him, thought that he guessed who he was, and that he and his companions had a design against him, for the purpose of receiving the reward which had been offered for his life. "My good friends," said Bruce, "as we are strangers to each other, you will go first, and we will follow." "You have no occasion to dread any harm from us," replied the man. "I do not suspect any," said Bruce, " but this is the way in which I choose to travel." They walked on till they reached a minous cottage, where the ruffians proposed dressing part of the sheep. Having kindled two fires, one at each end of the house, they broiled part of the sheep, which proved very acceptable to the king and his foster-brother. After partaking of the sheep, a heavy drowsiness eame upon the king, and, having desired his companion to keep a strict look-out on their new acquaintances, fell asleep; but his foster-brother, having undergong as much fatigue as the king, soon also fell into a deep slumber. The three villains, observing the king and his companion asleep, made signs to each other, and, starting all at once, drew their swords, intending to kill them both. Although the ruffians made little noise in rising, yet it was sufficient to awaken the king, who slept but lightly, and, starting to his feet, at the same time awakening his friend with a push of his foot, prepared to meet his dastardly companions. Ere the king's foster-brother was fully awake, one of the villains slew him. Bruce was now