Now back they wend their watery way, And, 'O my sire!' did Ellen say, 'Why urge thy chase so far astray?
And why so late returned? And why '--
The rest was in her speaking eye.
'My child, the chase I follow far, 'Tis mimicry of noble war;And with that gallant pastime reft Were all of Douglas I have left.
I met young Malcolm as I strayed Far eastward, in Glenfinlas' shade Nor strayed I safe, for all around Hunters and horsemen scoured the ground.
This youth, though still a royal ward, Risked life and land to be my guard, And through the passes of the wood Guided my steps, not unpursued;And Roderick shall his welcome make, Despite old spleen, for Douglas' sake.
Then must he seek Strath-Endrick glen Nor peril aught for me again.'
