ABSTRACT
The sun rose as the funeral procession of the Earl of Mar moved from before the gates of the monastery at Falkirk. Lord Ruthven and Edwin mounted their horses. The maids of the two ladies led them forth towards the litters which were to convey them so long a journey. Lady Ruthven came first, and Wallace placed her tenderly in her carriage. The Countess next appeared, clad from head to foot in the deep weeds of her widowhood. Her child followed in the arms of its nurse. At sight of the innocent babe whom he had so often seen pressed to the fond bosom of the father he was now following to his grave, tears rushed into the eyes of Wallace. Lady Mar at that moment lifted her veil, and meeting his commiserating look, applied it to herself, and with a flush of joy sunk her head upon the shoulder of her maid. Wallace advanced to her respectfully, and handing her to her vehicle, urged her to cherish life for the sake of her child. She threw herself back in violent agitation on her pillow, and Wallace deeming the presence of her babe the surest comforter, after blessing it with all the fervor of its father's friend, laid it by her side. At that moment, before he had relinquished it, she bent her face upon his hands and bathing them with her tears, in a stifled voice said, 'Oh! Wallace, remember me!' Lord Ruthven rode up to bid adieu to his friend, and the litters moved on. Wallace promised that both he and Edwin should hear of him in the course of a few days; and affectionately grasping the hand of the latter, bade him farewel.
