The Highland Tale; The King Act Five Scene Six Sub Act One

 BATTLE FOR DUSINANE

ACT FIVE

SCENE SIX

SUB ACT ONE

 

In the Highlands tales, the Earl of Pembroke at Methven, Robert the Bruce, went into hiding, supposedly in the Western Isles. He resided in a cave for three months, at the lowest point of his life and struggling to come up with a plan about what to do next, contemplating leaving the country never to return.

However, while Robert the Bruce was waiting, legend has it that he watched a spider build a web at the entrance to the cave. The typically stormy Scottish weather, not one to disappoint, made the spider’s task difficult as droplet after droplet destroyed the creature's intricate work. Finally, against all odds, the spider succeeded with his web.

Robert the Bruce was inspired by the spider’s efforts, so he decided to get up and face another fight. He is said to have told his men, “If at first you don’t succeed, try, try, and try again,” which is a phrase used still to this day.

Malcolm had listened to that tale of ‘never say die’ for years. That day, he stood at the foothill of Dunsinane and marveled at the fortifications done.

“The tyrant did a good task there.” MacDuff stood next to the prince. “I am sure he is up there looking at us now.”

“He may be, but that will not evade his fate; he will be toppled as king." Lennox said. “I have waited a long time for this day.”

“You were always loyal to my father, Lennox. I admired that in you.” Malcolm smiled.

“My loyalty is to you now, my future king." Lennox played to the needs of Malcolm. “Shall we leave the battle plans to MacDuff and Lord Siward? They are the experts.”

“We are close enough. Leave the branches there, men. We are to battle.” Lord Siward called on the army,

“Juggernauts, start the bombardment.” Lord Siward called out.

“The Man-Suits to follow on after the Juggernauts. We will breach the walls there.” MacDuff rallied the Man-Suits.

“Infantry to follow on and prepare the board to cross the moats. We will not give them a narrow target there.” Menteith gave the order.

“With all your breath, blow the bagpipes, those deafening heralds of blood and death. We are here to reclaim our land.” MacDuff called on the bagpipers to rally the battle spirit in the men. “

Hark when the night is falling.
Hear! hear the pipes calling,
Loudly and proudly calling,
Down through the glen.
There, where the hills are sleeping,
Now feel the blood a-leaping.
High as the spirits
of the old Highland men.

Scotland's brave lyrics.

The English were not to be outdone, and they played their own tune.

“Rule, Britannia! Rule the waves:
"Britons will never be slaves."

(The Works of James Thomson by James Thomson, Published 1763, Vol. II, p. 191)