Page:History of Sir William Wallace (1).pdf/71

 ( 71 ) Scotland had also a top powerful rival in the King of England. separated by no local or natural barrier. Since the accession of the Konnan line, that nation' had acquired new energy and vigour, The descendants of William of Normandy, were in general a race of polite princes. They held in subjection the potent vassals; repressed the continual inroa of the Scots and Welsh; their conti- nental possessions were defended; the usurpa- tions of the Church were checked. They gradually subiue! the Welsh, resisted the in- vasions of their northern neighbours, and they other subdued or destroyed their rebellious nobles. Edward I. was early trained in the school of adversity, among the troubles of his father's reign; and having, with the bravery of a Christian hero, visited the holy land under the banner of the Cross. he was matured in experience and vears, and had acquired great Same before his accession to the throne. He was amply qualified to improve every occur- rence to his own advantage; and the death of Alexander III. of Scotland, opened a wide field to his ambitious mind. His design was indeed frustrated, but in the 'se of his negociations, the eyes of the Scottish nation were directed towards him; and he not only gained many adherents, but inspired the nation with an high idea of his probity and knowledge; and he acquired such an ascendency over a rude un- suspecting people, as almost to regulate their public transactions Besides