Page:The Family Legend.pdf/155

Rh

Idly to look upon it? (Going up fiercely to Lorne.) Turn me out The boldest, brawniest Campbell of your bands; Ay, more than one, as many as you will; And I the while, albeit these locks be grey, Leaning my aged back against this tree, Will show your youngsters how, in other days, Macleans did fight, when baited round with foes.

Be still, Benlora; other sword than these, Thy chief's and mine, shall not this day be drawn. If I prevail against him, here with us Our captives you remain. If I be conquer'd, Upon the faith and honour of a chieftain, Ye shall again to Mull in safety go.

Spoken like a noble chieftain!

Ye shall, I say, to Mull in safety go. But there prepare ye to defend your coast Against a host of many thousand Campbells; In which, be well assured, swords as good As John of Lorne's, to better fortune join'd, Shall of your crimes a noble vengeance take.