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 his men during the darkness of the night to examine the strength and situation of the fort. Receiving an agreeabje account of the possibility of attacking them with success, he hastened towards it, took the place, and put the men to the sword, but set the governor's wife and the rest of the women and children at liberty.

From this place, he went to take shelter in the woods and fastnesses, but losing no opportunity of slaying all the English whom he found in arms; meanwhile increasing his men and stores to prepare for greater exploits.

Wandering about in this unsettled state,Wallace and his men went together in the wood of Methven, a few miles from Perth, then called St. Johnstoun. Among these valiet and faithful few who had marshalled under the banner of Wallace, there was one Stephen, an Irishman, of uncommon strength and courage, to whom Wallace having given the command of the rest, went with a few to visit the town of Perth. Reminding Stephen that they had sufficient provision for several days, he charged him to lurk secretly in the wood until he returned, or to be prepared for action, upon hearing the sound of his horn.

Having adjusted matters, he set forward to Perth with a few of his men. Arrived at the gate, the Provost was sent for before they could find admittance. When he saw Wallace, a strong fall man, he fixed his eyes upon him, and enquired if they were all Scotsman, Wallace readily answered, “We are not only all ((hws|Scots|Scotsman}}