James.—In the first place, warriors running in a tide is a clashing metaphor; in the second, the warriors running at all is a little homely. It is true, no doubt; but really running is little better than scampering. For these causes, one or both, I think the lines should be altered.
Scott.—You are wrong in one respect. A tide is always said to run,—but I thought of the tide without attending to the equivoque, which must be altered. Read,—
"Where the tumultuous flight rolls on."
Stanza XVI.—"—— found gallant grave."
James.—This is surely a singular epithet to a grave. I think the whole of this stanza eminently fine; and, in particular, the conclusion.
Scott.—"—— found soldier's grave." ——
Stanza XXI.—"Redoubted Picton's soul of fire."
James.—From long association, this epithet strikes me as conveying a semi-ludicrous idea.
Scott.—It is here appropriate, and your objection seems merely personal to your own association.
Ibid.—"Through his friends' heart to wound his own."