Page:History of Sir William Wallace (1).pdf/121

 (126) A SHORT ACCOUNT of the Public Transactinis in Scotland after the Death of WALLACE. Edward's cruel conduct towards Wallace, had not the intended effect, of securing his conquests; for new enemies arose whence he least expected. As he returned from his last. expedition to Scotland, John. Cutain and Robert Bruce meeting together after long conference on the state of their country, and the delusive promises he has made to each of them apart. to support their clams to the crown of Scotland. yet they found his inter- tion was only to use their assistance to conquer and secure it to himself; which opinion he hard confirmed, by his carrying out of the kingdom all its records, antiquities, and learned men. Thereupon they agreed, that Cumming should drop his pretensions to the Crown in favours of Bruce, and that Bruce should give hitti all his lands for his assistance. This. Contract was immediately concluded on, and sealed by both parties. Upon this, Bruce, watching an opportunity to rise in arms, left his wife and children in Scotland, and went to the Court of England. After his departure; Cumming (as it is reported) either repenting of his agreement, or fraudulently to oppose Bruce's proposed