Page:Life of King Robert Bruce.pdf/18

18 pared, the English army approached Berwick, which was commanded by Walter, grand Steward of Scotland. This nobleman had long apprehended an attack from the English, and had taken every means of defence in his power. The enemy, however, confiding in their numbers, made a general assault, but were repulsed, on the 7th of September, after a most obstinate contest. Their next attempt was on the side towards the river. At that time the walls of Berwick were of an inconsiderable height, and it was proposed to bring a vessel close to them, from whence the troops might enter by a drawbridge; but the Scots so annoyed the assailants, that they could not bring the vessel within the proper distance; and, at ebb-tide, it grounded, and was burnt by the besieged. The English had then recourse to a new invention, called a sow. This was a large engine, composed of timber, well roofed, having stages within it, and in height surpassing the wall of the town. It moved on wheels, and served for the double purpose of conveying miners to the foot of the wall, and armed men to the storm. This great engine moved on to the walls, and, at length, a huge stone struck it with such force that the beams gave way, and the Scots pouring down combustibles upon it, it was burnt. The English, however, continued the attack. The Steward, with the reserve of 100 men, went from post to post, relieving those who were wounded or unfit for combat. One soldier only remained with him, when an alarm was given that the English had burnt a barrier at the port called St. Mary's, possessed themselves of the drawbridge, and fired the gate. The Steward hastened thither, called down the guard from the rampart, ordered the gate to be set open, and rushed out upon the enemy. A desperate combat ensued,