Page:History of Sir William Wallace (1).pdf/58

 ( 58 ) I have no right, and which my services cannst merit. I only mean toʻresene'my country from oppression and slavery, and to defend that just cause which you have abandoned. You, my Lord, whose rights may entitle you to be kings, it is your duty to protect the kingdom; it is because you fail in this respect, that I must, and will, while I exist, endeavour to maintain the rights and liberties of that country I was born to serve; and. if it is the will o. Providence, in the defence of these I will lay down my life. As for you, who choose rather to live a slave, with the safety of your life and property, than to be free and independent, with the hazard of losing your fortune, you may continue in the possession of what you so highly esteem, your large estate; though, had you but the spirit to claim the crown, you might both win it with glory, and wear it with justice. I can do neither; but this I will do, I shall live and die a free born subject." This conversation could not fail to make a strong impression upon the mind of young Bruce; but circumstances constraining them to break off he returned to Edward, and Wallace continued to lead off his men. In the pinion of those who were competent judges, this engagement was as glorious to his military character, as when he gained a more decisive battle than that which was now lost. It is, however deeply to be regreted, that he did not yield the contest to either of the two com- manders, and allowed the good of his country to