Scotland/Scots > Life of Sir William Wallace, Knight of Ellerslie, and Guardian of Scotland

SIR WILLIAM WALLACE.
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the fine expressive countenance of our hero, in
such a manner as attracted the notice of the vic¬
tor, who, emboldened by his success, defied him
to the combat. Wallace readily accepted the
challenge, and, drawing his sword, prepared for
the onset. The ease and grace with which he
handled his weapon, soon convinced the English
that their champion had engaged in a perilous
enterprise. His skill and dexterity appeared un¬
availing against the cool self-possession of the Scot,
who, after a few passes, became the assailant;
and a blow, which descended with the rapidity
of lightning, laid the arrogant gladiator lifeless
on the ground. This unexpected interruption
of their amusement irritated the English, who
crowded round to apprehend the author of their
disappointment. Wallace, however, no ways
appalled by the numbers with which he was en¬
vironed, dealt his deadly blows around him with
their usual effect; while his followers, drawing
their swords, attacked those that were nearest
them with a fury that spread consternation and
uproar through the whole assembly. The Eng¬
lish, seeing themselves assailed from so many
quarters, conceived they were surrounded by a
multitude of enemies. Wallace, always the first
in the fray, according to the homely phraseology