Page:History of Sir William Wallace (1).pdf/83

 ( 83 ) force of the Scots, convinced that they could not oppose him in the open field, remained in their inaccessible mountains and fastnesses. In this disastrous situation of their affairs, the Scottish regents applied to the King of France to interpose his good services; and to the Pope, offering to the latter the sovereignty of the kingdom, if he would by his authority, com- mand Edward to retire from Scotland. In that dark and superstitious period. Christian princes were accustomed to tremble at the mandate of the Pope; therefore, his Holiness eagerly embraced this opportunity to encrease his power and revenge. While they were thus colleting foreign aid, they entered into a negociation with Edwards in which they made offer of their feudal homage, on condition that he should replace John Baliol on the throne: should evacuate their territories; and should restore to those who had taken part against him, their confiscated lands: intimating, at the same time, that the Pope of Rome would soon interpose his anthority in their behalf. Edward heard these proposals with indignation: and, with a disdainful smile, replied, “ Have you done me homage as superior lord of Scotland, and believe that I can be terrified with pre- tenees; as if, like one who has no power to compel, I would tamely give up my just right. Let me hear no more of this; for, if you do, I swear by all that is sacred, I will destroy Scotland, from one sea to another." But