Earnest

Now I begin with earnest.

Definition: Serious in intention, purpose, or effort, sincerely zealous.  Showing depth and sincerity of feeling, seriously important, grave. 

My selection: Scottish Chiefs

“Wallace proceeded, and with dignity announced the hatred that was now poured upon him by a large part of that nobility who had been so eager to invest him with the high office that he held, ‘Though they have broken their oaths,’ cried he, ‘I have fulfilled mine,  They vowed to me all lawful obedience.  I swore to free Scotland or to die. Every castle in this realm is restored to its ancient lord; every fortress is filled with a native garrison; the sea is covered with our ships; and the kingdom sits secure behind her well-defended bulwarks.  Such have I, through the strength of the Almighty arm, made Scotland.  Today I deliver up my commission, since its design is accomplished.  I resign the regency.’ As he spoke he took off his helmet, and stood uncovered before the people.

‘No, no!’ seemed the voice from every lip; ‘we will acknowledge no other power, we will obey no other leader.’

Wallace expressed his sense of their attachment; but repeating that he had fulfilled the end of his office by setting them free, he explained that his retaining it was no longer necessary. ‘Should I remain your regent,’ continued he, ‘ the country would be involved in ruinous dissensions.  So I bequeath your liberty to the care of your chiefs.  But, should it again be in danger, remember that while life breaths in this heart, the spirit of William Wallace will be with you still.”

Any other ones you can think of?

Happy Reading!