Page:History of Sir William Wallace (1).pdf/66

 ( 66 ) situation of the Scots. Edward I. one of the most valiant and political monarchs that ever sat upon the English throne, was ambitious, by obtaining Margaret in marriage to his eldest son, to embrace 'the present opportunity of adding Scotland to the dominion of his crown). Alex- ander II. previous to his death, had taken care to secure to her the throne; and Eric of Norway nos asserted her claim, and endeavoured to put her in the undisputed possession of it. Edward, deeming matters ripe for accom- plishing his grand scheme, sent a very honour- able embassy to the parliament of Scotland, met at Pryham near Shelson, on the 18th of July 1980, Share ambassadors from the Norwegian king also attended, it full powers to settle all the con- satious of the marriage. But though the parlia- ment of Scotland agreed to the marriage, as ad- vantageous to both kingdoms. yet in setting the conditions, they took every possible precau- tion to preserve the independence of their coun- try, and to guard against every danger that might arise from so near an alliance with such a power- fuland ambitious neighbour. In that matrimonial treaty it was stipulutett, that the Scots should enjoy will their ancient laws, liberties, and cus- tonis: That in case Edward and Margaret should be without issue, the kingdom of Scotland should trt. trce, absolute and independent, to the stext heir: That in case Edward should e before - Margaret, without issue lry her. the body of • Torret slicidd be remitted to Scullend free amiche pendent. That the military tupants of the