That a stranger should see his changing moods, and above all, should
presume to tamper therewith, aroused in James the fierce spirit of
revenge. Said the fiery monarch:

"'Laugh those that can, weep those that may,
Southward I march by break of day;
And if within Tantallon strong
The good Lord Marmion tarries long,
Perchance our meeting next may fall
At Tamworth, in his castle-hall.'"

Marmion felt the taunt, and answered gravely: "My humble home would be
much honored if King James should visit its halls, but Nottingham has as
true archers as e'er drew bow, and Yorkshire men are stern and brave.

"'And many a banner will be torn,
And many a knight to earth be borne,
And many a sheaf of arrows spent,
Ere Scotland's King shall cross the Trent.'"

Scornfully the Monarch turned away, and commanded the gayeties to
proceed. He flung aside cloak and sword, and gallantly led Dame Heron in
the dance, as the minstrels, at the King's command, struck up "Blue
Bonnets o'er the Border."

[Illustration: SCOTT'S MONUMENT, EDINBURGH.]



CHAPTER VI.