_The Council Chamber._

LORD DUNBAR, SIR ALEXANDER SETON, _with Attendants, grouped in consultation_.

_Enter_ OFFICER.

OFFICER.

My lords, the herald.

HERALD.

The King of England, merciful as brave, Doth once more summon thee, to render up The town and castle to your rightful liege, King Edward Baliol, who is now at Tweedmouth. Should ye resist the royal mercy still, The hour of vespers, which approaches near, Shall see each hostage quivering high in air; As token of the truth, behold, even now, The gibbets rise before the walls of Berwick.

SETON.

Down, down, proud heart! [_Aside._ In terms of the truce, we yet do crave Delay till Keith’s return. Speak to him, March.

DUNBAR.

Tell proud Plantagenet, king of haughty England, That I, Patrick Dunbar, the earl of March, Will hold this castle till its stubborn walls Be levell’d with the ground; and if I render, Ungird my sword, cut off my knighthood’s spurs, And let me live degraded. When ’tis ta’en The prince may breakfast with my lady, Agnes, Who’ll give him warm toast in her family house, A few leagues distant.

HERALD.

My lord, we lack not toast, Although your lady were a noble toast To grace a conqueror’s banquet. Here I breathe Defiance in the name of England’s king! Our veterans burn to kiss your yielding maids; The gibbets are impatient; at the toll Of vespers, mercy on each youthful soul! [_Exit_ HERALD.

DUNBAR.

Seton, prepare for war; for in the camp There’s mighty movements; but I do not deem That Edward’s royal mind will stain his chaplet By such a deed.

_Enter_ OFFICER.

OFFICER.

My lord, on the horizon We see the troops advancing. Helm on helm, Banner on banner, glittering in the sun; While the far spears gleam like a silver forest Gilded by lightning.

SETON.

Now Heaven be praised; for Keith will soon be here!

DUNBAR.

I guard the castle—Seton, to the town; Send gallant Ramsay to protect the ramparts; Let Prendergest and Gray close up each avenue; This is the time when England’s arm will strike; Ring the alarum, till the Bell Tower shakes To its foundations, and with one voice cry God for our country, David and St Andrew! [_Exeunt._