The Lady of the Lake · Walter Scott
Chapter 2
Chapter 103 of 192 · 1 min read
Such fond conceit, half said, half sung, Love prompted to the bridegroom's tongue. All while he stripped the wild-rose spray, His axe and bow beside him lay, For on a pass 'twixt lake and wood A wakeful sentinel he stood. Hark!—on the rock a footstep rung, And instant to his arms he sprung. 'Stand, or thou diest!—What, Malise?—soon Art thou returned from Braes of Doune. By thy keen step and glance I know, Thou bring'st us tidings of the foe.'— For while the Fiery Cross tried on, On distant scout had Malise gone.— 'Where sleeps the Chief?' the henchman said. 'Apart, in yonder misty glade; To his lone couch I'll be your guide.'— Then called a slumberer by his side, And stirred him with his slackened bow,— 'Up, up, Glentarkin! rouse thee, ho! We seek the Chieftain; on the track Keep eagle watch till I come back.'
