Page:History of Sir William Wallace (1).pdf/59

 (59) to have overbalanced what was even his un- quetionable right. But it is still matter of deeper regret, that Bruce and Wallace did not that day unite, which would have accelerated the ascent of the former to the throne, and saved the lives of many brave heroes, who fell in the after-contest, under the banners of noble Bruce. But the most splendid virtues, and the most meritorious actions, afford no protection against the attacks of malignity at slander. Nay, it often happens, that the peculiar excellencies of individuals for the foundation of the ma. lignant attacks of enemies. With a view to palliate the treachery of Sir John Cumming, who was known to have fought none at all, the enemies of Wallace insinuated that he be- haved little better than Sir John; and some Scots authors even assert, that sacrificing his honour and country to his resentment against Sir John Stewart, he stood by, an idle spec- tator, till he saw that brave man and all about him cut to pieces. This they consider as the only misconduct with which he can be charged during the whole course of his life; and doubt- less all would concur with then had any good authority been produced to prove it: but such a foul aspersion can never be believed by an impartial reader. The ignorant may mistake- a judicious retreat for a giddy flight; but be cause Sir William was not the first engaged why refuse him clue honour, because he did set hazard top much, but showed his skill in re-