774. So lately. At the "Beltane game" (319 above).

774. So lately. At the "Beltane game" (319 above).

781. Thus as they strove, etc. The MS. reads:

"Thus, as they strove, each better hand Grasped for the dagger or the brand."

786. I hold, etc. Scott has the following note on the last page of the 1st ed.: "The author has to apologize for the inadvertent appropriation of a whole line from the tragedy of Douglas: 'I hold the first who strikes my foe.'"

789. His daughter's hand, etc. For the ellipsis of that, see on 703 above. Deemed is often misprinted "doomed."

791. Sullen and slowly, etc. The MS. reads:

"Sullen and slow the rivals bold Loosed at his hest their desperate hold, But either still on other glared," etc.

795. Brands. A pet word with Scott. Note how often it has been used already in the poem.