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

60
LIFE OF
of our author, “ grete rowme about him made
and the enemy had already begun to give way,
when an additional force from the castle made its
appearance. The battle was now renewed with
redoubled fury on both sides; and our hero, whose
person had by this time been recognised, became
the principal object of their hostility. The few,
however, who ventured within his reach, soon paid
the forfeit of their temerity. Having collected
his followers around him, he fearlessly advanced
into the centre of the English, diminishing their
numbers with every blow of his broad sword.
Three of Percy’s near relations fell beneath his
arms ; while his followers pressed with deter¬
mined ferocity hpon those who attempted to sur¬
round him. From the increasing numbers of
the enemy, he at last became apprehensive of
having his retreat cut off, if he continued any
longer the unequal contest. Placing himself,
therefore, in front of his men, he ordered them
to make the best of their way, while he endea¬
voured to keep the enemy from harassing their
rear. By incredible exertions, they at last regain¬
ed their post at the outside of the town, where,
mounting their horses, they were soon lost to
their pursuers among the shades of Laglyne
wood, leaving about thirty of the English dead