some length, Maclean is mortally wounded, and the Campbells give a loud shout.
MACLEAN.
And better deed thou couldst not do upon me,
Than rid me of a life disgraced and wretched.
But guilty though I be, thou see'st full well,
That to the brave opposed, arms in hand,
I am no coward. Oh! could I as bravely,
In home-rais'd broils, with violent men have strove,
It had been well: but there, alas! I proved
A poor, irresolute, and nerveless wretch.
(After a pause, and struggling for breath.)
To live, alas! in good men's memories
Detested and contemn'd:—to be with her
For whom I thought to be Come, gloomy grave!
Thou cover'st all!
(After another painful struggle, every one standing in deep silence round him, and Lorne bending over him compassionately.)
And merit not.—Brave Lorne, I ask it not;
Though in thy piteous eye a look I see
That might embolden me. There is above
One who doth know the weakness of our nature,—
Our thoughts and conflicts:—all that e'er have breathed;