The history of the houses of Douglas and Angus written by Master David Hume ...

Of William Douglas Lord of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, called the flowre of Chevalrie.

BEfore we proceed to the rest of the Lords of Douglas, the order of the History requires, that wee speake something of William, not Lord of Douglas, but Lord of Liddesdale, and a worthy member of the house and name of Douglas. The first mention of him, and his acti∣ons, is at the battle of Annand, where hee was with Archbald, Lord of Galloway. The last of his actions of importance are in the beginning of the first Earle William, before the battle of Durham the space of thirteen yeares or thereby: which time hee imployed for his lawfull King and Countrey against the usurpers, so diligently as shall bee deduced in the progresse of this Story. Writers call him naturall sonne to Sir James slain* 1.1 in Spain, which is truth: But they erre when they say that John Lord Dalkeith was brother to William Lord of Liddesdale, hee being Liddes∣dales uncle, and Sir James brother, so master John Major hath Davidis, for Gulielmi, and Hollinshed, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 William for Archbald, who was made Captain of the castle of Edinburgh, by this same William. But it is so clear and manifest whom they mean of, that there is no question to be made of it. However it be, he hath so honoured and nobilitated himself by his ver∣tue, that no posteritie needs to enquire of his birth. We finde that he was married to a daughter of Sir John Grahame, Lord of Abercorne, called* 1.2 Margaret Grahame, by whom he got the lands of Liddesdale, he had but one onely daughter (Mar•…•…) who was married to Sir James of Lowden,* 1.3 who after the Lord Liddesdales his death, and Marga•…•…t Grahames, got the lands of Liddesdale.

His first appearing, to wit, at the battell of Annand, hath been spoken of: after that hee was for his wisedome and manhood accounted worthy to have the custody and government of the West Marches, •…•…s the charge of the East Marches was committed to Patrick Du•…•…. Being Wairden there, hee had his residence at Annand, where at a certain skirmish with

the English, his men were scattered, himself was hurt and taken prisoner, about that same time that Regent Murray was taken at Roxbrough, to wit, in the yeare 1332. before the battell of Halidoun hill, which was the oc∣casion that he was not there with his uncle Archbald, Lord of Galloway. He continued a prisoner untill 1335. and then he and Murray were both* 1.4 set at libertie, having payed a great summe of gold for their ransome. It is strange that these two great Politicians (the two Edwards I mean) in∣tending a conquest of Scotland, should have suffered such men to bee set at liberty at any rate, without making them sure to their side; considering that the detaining of them would greatly have facilitate their designes: and their liberty, being enemies, hinder and annoy them, as we shall heare it did not a little. It was apparently the pride of their hearts in that good successe, which made them carelesse and secure, not fearing any danger from these or any else. So doth successe and pride growing thereupon commonly blind men: or so doth God blinde the▪ wisedome of unjust men, when hee hath a work to do against them. But before wee come to the rest of the deeds of this valorous Lord, we must take a view of the estate of things at that time, that the circumstances (which are the life of History, and light of actions) being knowne, the actions themselves may be the better considered.

We have heard how desperately things went on the Brucian (which was the onely right) side: hee that was lawfull King durst not bee named, nor there was none that durst do so much as once offer to call him King, but the little children in their play, who still stiled him so; whether by a naturall inclination to their rightfull Prince, or by some spark of Divine inspiration joyned therewith, who can tell? or who knowes these things? what motions will either remain of old or spread of new in the hearts of men, where Gods work is to be done? wise men keep silence, and there∣fore the stones behoved to cry out, and foolish simple babes beare wit∣nesse that the Bruce was King, for all the usurpers confidence and cruel∣tie: no doubt, it was with great derision, and contempt of the hearers, but the event did justifie it, that it had a secret mover. No man saw the means how it could come to passe, but means will not be wanting, where a work is to be done. This ought to be a heartning to good subjects in their law∣full Princes quarrell, and for good men in all good causes, not to de∣spaire for want of means. Let men do their best, means will come from whence they least dream on: Perhaps it will fall out so here in this case: Out from among the midst of the enemies the first glimpse of de∣liverance doth arise.

There were that conspired against the Bruce to wrack him, and the Countrey, England and the Balliols faction in Scotland, and those had overrunne all. There comes a blink of favour, and hope from Rome, by the procuring of France. The Pope sends to King Edward of England, to desist from invading of Scotland, but that evanished without effect: pride had so farre prepossessed his heart, that he thought himselfe sure to make a conquest of Scotland, pleasing himself in his owne conceit, and suppo∣sing Scotland neither durst, nor could ever make head against him here∣after: wherefore he will not do so much as give the Ambassadours leave

to come into his sight. A manifest contempt, not so much of the people, as of the voyce of equity and reason: But he called it reason what he had ability to doe: (Stat pro ratione volu•…•…as) is the voyce of Tyrannie, and indeed a change being to come, pride behoved to go before; bùt the working of this is obscure, and not perceived at first openly: di•…•…ention amongst the conspirators doth arise upon a light occasion, a gnats wing (as the Proverb is) but it growes to a Mountain. Talbot an English man was appointed with Balliol (as hath been said) for to govern Scotland, his co-adjutors for re-conquering of it were (amongst other Scots Englized) David Cummin Earle of Athole, Henry of Beaumont, John Mowbray an old favourer of that faction, from the time of Edward the first, of whom he had received diverse lands for ill service to his Countrey, which Edward esteemed to bee good; as indeed it was profitable to him. This John Mowbray was dead, and had left his lands to be divided between his two daughters, and his brother Alexander, or rather as a bone, and a matter of debate amongst the whole faction: for his daughters claiming it as heires of line, his brother by heire-male as entail, the Case was brought to judgement. Henry of Beaumont had married one of the daughters, he therefore was fracker froward that way, as one that was interessed. Tal∣bot and Cummin swayed this way; Edward Balliol enclined to the other party, and gave sentence for Alexander the brother. Hereupon dissention ariseth; they grudge and murmure against the judgement, they complain of it in their open discourse, and speaches, as unjust: they withdrew them∣selves from Court, as mal-contents. Talbot goes into England (perhaps to complain to the King) and as he came thorow Lowthian, hee is taken by some of King Bruces party (who began to show their heads upon this occasion) and carried to Dumbarton where hee died: Beaumont put hand to work, and without so much as acquainting the King withall, takes Dun∣gard a strong Castle in Buchan, and the rest of the lands that were in plea, hee ceaseth them, and makes them his owne by the law of the strongest. Cummin gets him into Athole and there fortifies himself against whosoever should assail him. This terrifies Balliol so, that he retreats his sentence, and turnes his coat; agreeth with those two, granting unto Beau∣mont the lands which he had adjudged from him, and giving Cummin di∣verse other good lands which belonged to Robert Stuart, who shall reigne afterward, to shew upon what ill ground that gift was founded. But is he the better for this injustice? for injustice it must be either first, or last, he is not so much the better, as in likelihood he should have been; for inju∣stice is never profitable. If hee gain one, he losseth another: hee winnes Cummin and Beaumont, but he loseth Alexander Mowbray: who thereupon joins himself to the other party. And thus was this usurpers faction brang∣led, then bound up again, and after divided again by want of worth in Balliol their head. But this is not all, for it seems that Cummins mind hath not been so much soundly reconciled to Balliol, as it hath been onely plai∣stered over, which may appea•…•…e to bee probably collected out of the Hi∣story, which they say is thus. Edward of England came with 50000. men into Scotland; to what purpose so many? was there warre? None saith he, nor rebellion greatly, that appeared any where, what doth hee then?

doth he fight with any man? doth he fortifie Castles? we heare no word of any such matter. What hath been his intention then? wherefore came he, and with so huge an Army? they tell not. But let actions speake, they will tell: All agree in this, that he tooke away Balliol into England; there is one point: Then hee hath been jealous of him, and hath feared per∣haps that he would not continue long his vassall, as his Grandfather had proofe, in Balliols father: but what doth he more? hee leaves Cummin to guide the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in Scotland; there is another point: Hee makes him Viceroy in Scotland for Balliol, and Balliol in effect prisoner in England. Of which course Edward of England is the Authour, let it bee so; who will purge Cummin of having been a Counseller, a suggester of information for his owne advancement? he being a man that did ever hunt after pre∣ferment, which he made the scope of his actions, and compasse, by which he ever sailed, being also of an aspiring mind, and of a fickle and various disposition and nature. However it be, this is another division in that so∣ciety between the Edwards, the usurping Kings. And thus much of the estate of their faction.

Concerning the other partie that stuck to the lawfull King Robert Stuart, that afterward was King, had escaped Balliols ambush: being but fifteen yeares of age, and by the help of his friends, was conveyed to the Castle of Dumbarton, where hee was received by Malcolm Fleeming Captain thereof. Now both the Edwards being absent, and he having a particular spleen against Cummin, who possessed his private inheritance; the said Ro∣bert with the help of Colin or Duncan Campbell in Argyle (from whom he obtained an aid of foure hundreth men) had taken the Castle of Dunholm in Coile, and destroyed the English Garrison there, whereupon the men of Boote (which was his private inheritance) had taken armes, slain Al∣lane Lyle there Captain, and Sheriffe, who was placed there by Balliol and Cummin, and were come home very joyfull to their old master the Stu∣arts. Upon this Thomas Bruce Earle of Carrict with his friends, and neigh∣bours of Coile, and Cunninghame, and William Karrudise of Annandale (who had ever refused the English yoake) coming forth out of the place where they had lurked, resorted to him also. John Randulph Earle of Mur∣ray was returned from France, and did incourage them with hopes of forreign help of Jefferey or Godfrey Rosse (Sheriffe of Aire) had drawne Coile, Carrict, and Cunningham to be of the partie; Ranfrow was also re∣turned tò the Stuarts. By their example, the dependers of Andrew Murray had drawne all Cliddesdale to them, partly by faire means, partly by force. These under the command and leading of Robert Stuart, and John Randulph had passed into the North parts, chaised David Cummin, Gover∣nour for the English to Lochaber, and compelled him to yeeld, and swear obedience to David Bruce: Notwithstanding, that the enemy had com∣mitted to him so great a charge, as to bee Lieutenant for him in those parts.

About this time or a little before, William Lord of Liddesda•…•…e returns from his captivity, having been three yeares in prison: And hee is no sooner returned, but that presently he begins to serve his King and Coun∣trey faithfully, and diligently against both their enemies, Scots and Eng∣lized

usurpers; recompencing his long imprisonment with his enemies losses, especially in Lowthian: for the more easie performance hereof, and that hee might annoy them that were in the Castle of Edinburgh, (which was then held by the English) and them that went toward it, hee lay in wait in Pentland-hills. To him John Randulph, after that he had left David Cummin Earle of Athole Lieutenant for him in the North parts (Randulph and Robert Stuart were chosen Governours by the Kings party) did adjoyn himself as to his old and fast friend: from thence they* 1.5 both went to Perth, to a Convention of the States, the 2. of Aprill 1335. But there was nothing done at that meeting, because of the enmity be∣twixt the Lord Liddesdale, and David Cummin Earle of Athole. The oc∣casion was, the Lord of Liddesdale alledged that hee was detained longer in prison, then other wayes he would have been, by the means of the the Earle of Athole, who (no doubt) did thinke it meet for Balliol and the English faction, and therefore advised them to keep him. And certainly he was wiser in that point, then they that set him at libertie for ransome: Now under the colour and pretext of this ill will between him and Lid∣desdale, Athole was so strongly accompanied with his servants and de∣penders, that the rest being jealous of his disposition, and fearing his present power did conclude no matter of importance, Robert Stuart encli∣ned toward him, but all the rest favoured the Lord Liddesdale. Robert was young, and knew not the disp•…•…sition of Athole, which the rest knew better, and what ods was between them in fidelitie, which was not long in discovering. For King Edward of England came with a great army, both by Sea and Land, and brought Balliol with him. So soone as he came to Perth, Athole being solicited to defection from Bruce, he was not very hard to wooe, whereas Liddesdale did still his uttermost endevours for him. One of the Governours (to wit, Robert Stuart) being sick, and the other (John Randulph) thinking it too heavie a burden for him alone to fight, divided his forces, that so he might the more annoy the King. Now word was brought to him, that there was a great army of the Guelders coming through England, to joyne with Edward, and help him against the Scots. Wherefore Randulph passeth over into Lowthian, to try if he could conveniently intercept them, and cut them off ere they should joyn with the King. There came hither to assist Randulph (the Governour) Patrick Earle of Marche, William Lord Liddesdale, and Alexander Ramsay of Dalhousie, and others. These being assembled together, lay in wait for them near Edinburgh in the Borrow moore: and so soon as they came in sight one of the other, without any delay of either side they joyned battell, and after a great conflict, the Guelders were put to rout, and chased to a little hill, where was a ruinous Castle. There they were besieged all that night, and the next day, they rendered themselves, lives safe.

Others write that they fled to the Castle hill of Edinburgh, up Saint Ma∣ries wind or lane, defending themselves valiantly through the high street till they came to that place, where they slew their horses, and made (as it were) a rampart of their carcasses, and so saved themselves. There they stayed all that night, and having neither meat nor drink, nor convenient

lodging, opprest with hunger, and cold, and thirst, yeelded themselves on the morrow. This narration seems not to bee so probable, as the for∣mer; for if it had been at the Castle of Edinburgh, it might have made them more support, atleast releeved the Duke, and have saved him. Be∣sides that, the town of Edinburgh should suffer strangers to passe through the midst of them, and neither aid them if they were friends, nor as•…•…ail them if they were enemies, nor shut their gates if they were neutrall, for fear of some danger to come to their towne thereby, but suffer both par∣ties to have free accesse into their chief street and to stand as lookers on, it hath no great likelihood. They ascribe also the winning of the field, to the Lord of Liddesdale, who was not (as Hollinshed sayes) present at their first joyning battell, but came to it from Pentland-hills in so conveni∣ent time; that if he had not come, the Guelders who fought exceeding well, had got the day. Others make no mention of Randulph, but of the Lord Liddesdale, and Alexander Ramsay with him.

Those that write of this battell, tell of a huge and wonderfull stroake given by Sir David Annand in his fury, hee being hurt, stroke his enemy on the shoulder with a Pole-axe, and clave him and his horse down to the hard pavement, in which, the force of the stroake left a great mark long after. And no lesse memorable is the valour of a woman in the Guelders army, who at the beginning of the battell stept forth before her compa∣ny, and encountred in a single combat or duell a Scotish Squire, named Robert Sha•…•…▪ whom she slew, and afterwards beat downe her enemies on each side, till at last after a good time shee was compassed about, and so slain. The Duke of Guelder their Captain having yeelded, was courte∣ously, and honourably used, his stuffe and baggage was restored to him, and himself set free. The reason of this was, because G•…•…y Earle of Murray, having been bred in France, knew that the French King did af∣fect him; and therefore to gratifie him, he shewed him this •…•…avour to let him go without any other hurt or dammage; onely he made him sweare, hee should never aid the English again against the Scots. This same Au∣thor sayes that this was not the Duke of Guelders, but the Earle of Na∣murs called G•…•…y contrary to all our Writers, who with one consent af∣firme that it was. And if it were G•…•…y of Namurs, he had alwayes been an enemy, and received greater courtesie then enemies 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and more fa∣vour then was expedient for the Countrey. Nay, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 was not con∣tent to dismisse him free onely, but would needs for his safety, accompa∣ny him to England, in which journey they were suddenly set upon by the Lord 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and the Englized Scots, who had dressed an ambuscado for them, and there Randulph was taken, and the Lord Liddesdale hurt in the leg. The Governour was 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to the two Edwards that lay before Perth, which towne was thereupon soone after rendr•…•…d unto him.

Upon this successe of the usurpers faction, A•…•…hole very glad of what had 〈◊〉〈◊〉 out, accounting the prize now 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and following forth his 〈◊〉〈◊〉 pollicie revolted again to the usurping Kings▪ thinking it safest to side with the stronger, and did now clearly show, how worthy he was of that favour bestowed on him by Robert Stuart, who at the Convention at Perth had appeared on his side against the Lord 〈◊〉〈◊〉. And not

onely did Cummin come in to them, but undertakes also the government of Scotland once more as Lieutenant for the English, promising to root out all these of the contrary part that should stand out, and would not ac∣knowledge their authoritie. The King of England partly for lack of vi∣ctuals (which were put out of the way by the Governour) partly because of his journey into France, which he was then projecting, returned into his owne Countrey, and took along with him Balliol, who had the name of a King, but was indeed a very slave to another mans affection, for a vain and empty title; a just reward for his foolish trusting to a stranger in prejudice of his Countrey.

Athole being willing to doe what hee had said to the Edwards, that he might approve his service and fidelity unto them (whereby hee proved also false to his lawfull King, and late benefactours; his so friendly ene∣mies, who had not onely pardoned him so lately, and saved his life, but trusted him so far, and committed so much to him) left no kind of crueltie unpractised, that he could against his Countrey, so far, as that almost the whole Nobilitie relented, and became slack and remisse againsthim, or did yeeld unto him, having forgotten their duty. But behold the reward of such wisedom, and the due fruit of such seed as he had sown; a fruit that is often reaped of such seed, if men would beleeve, & observe it: though the present appearance, the first buds and blossomes of things do blinde their eyes, & make them choose that which should not be chosen, which is un∣acceptable to man, and not past over by God, as is seen in this man before the yeare be fully expired. For Robert Stuart being sick, and Randulph a pri∣soner, there were left but three Noble men who stuck fast, and were faith∣full to their King, and Countrey. These were William Lord Liddesdale, Patrick Earle of March, and Andrew Murray who had been Gover∣nour. They were so constant, that no promises could corrupt their fide∣litie, nor no threatning nor danger could quail their courage so, as to bow their hearts to any English servitude. Some adde unto these the Earle of Rosse, and William Lord Keith. These did greatly hate his unnaturall dealing against his Countrey, and treachery against his promise, and cru∣eltie joyned withall: three things ever odious and hatefull to honest minds. Wherefore understanding that hee lay at the siege of the Ca∣stell of Kildrummie, they levied such companies and number of men as they could get, and marched towards him. Cummin being advertised hereof, raiseth the siege, and meeteth them in the fields within the For∣rest of Kilblane: There they fought it very hardly, and Cummin being more in number, had overthrown them (as it is thought) but that John Craig* 1.6 Captain of Kildrummie, issuing forth with three hundreth fresh men, re∣stored the battell which was almost lost, and gave them an undoubted victory, which when Cummin perceived (being conscious of his owne ill* 1.7 deserving) that he might not fall into his enemies hands alive, he rushed into the midst of the battell, and so was slain: Sir Robert Minyeis fled to the Castle of Kenmure (saith Boetius) who saith also that Alexander Gordon was he that slew Athole; but others attribute it to the Lord Liddesdale himself, who for that cause, and for the slaughter of Sir Thomas Minyeis (it may be they mean Sir Robert) at the Castle of Lochindors, in the Sheriffe∣dome

Sheriffedome of Bamfe, was rewarded with the Earledome of Athole, and is so stiled in the resignation by which hee surrenders it again some foure yeares after (to wit, 1341) the 16 of February in favour of Robert Stuart, Great Stuart of Scotland, whereof the evident is yet extant in the Register. There died in this battell besides Athole, Walter Braid, and Ro∣bert Cummin, and a great number of others both Gentlemen and Com∣mons. Sir Thomas Cummin was taken prisoner, and the next day (being the 1. of January) he was beheaded. They were not above 1000. or (as some write) 500. choice men against 3000. yet the event was (as wee have said) favourable to the just and right cause. This battell was fought the last of December, 1337. By this blink of fair weather in such a storme of forrain assaults, things were again somewhat changed, and the Bruci∣ans encouraged: wherefore that they might have some face of a settled estate and government, they choose Andrew Murray Regent as hee had been before his captivitie. He went into the North, and in the mean time the Lord of Liddesdale with a company of chosen men passeth over into Fyffe, and besieged the Castle of Saint Andrews, Falkland, and Luchers, all which he tooke in with small difficulty, by his wisedome, and man∣hood, though they were strongly manned, and well fortified, and furni∣shed with munition, and victuall. Major re•…•…erreth this to the time after the Governour came backe out of the North. After this, he returned in∣to Lowthian to his old haunt in Pentland-hills to wait his time, and watch the English that lay in Edinburgh Castle, that hee might slip no occasion of troubling, and molesting them. At last this occasion did hap∣pen; the Towne being full stuft with a great number of Souldiers, both English and Scots: There was a scottish man amongst them of a stout sto∣mack, named Robert Phanderghest whose lot was fallen to be on that side, but his heart was with the other party, and hee carried no great good will to the English. This being perceived he was the worse entreated by them, so that one day his head was broken by the Marshall Thomas Kneveton, whereat taking indignation, hee sought all means to bee avenged thereof, and so brought it to passe that he shortly after slew him; and to avoid the danger of punishment, fled to the Lord Liddesdale, whom having infor∣med of the negligence that was growne amongst the English; he perswa∣ded him to take advantage of their sloath, he nothing slack in a businesse of that nature, went secretly in the night to the Towne, and slew foure hundreth of them in their sleep, and drunkennesse, before they could make any resistance.

About this time Murray the Regent dieth, after he had brought back all the Northerne parts of Scotland to his Princes obedience excepting Perth, a great losse for his Countrey, and hee greatly regrated; But no losse is without some gain. Robert Stuart had now recovered his health, who was the other Governour; (and as some write) hee assumed the Lord Liddesdale for his collegue, whether that were so or not, and what ever his place and name was, hee was a notable adjunct to Robert Stuart, and under his authority performed much good service, and profitable to King and Countrey with great hazard of his life, by receiving of many wounds; while he did assail and vanquish greater numbers with far fewer:

So that by his prowesse and singular valour hee reduced Tivedale, Nid∣desdale, Annandale and Cliddesdale (except the Hermitage) to the Kings obedience, having expulsed from thence all the English. These lands and strengths were lost again after the battell of Durham, and recovered a∣gain the second time, by VVilliam the first Earle of Douglas, which wee have inserted here, lest men inconsiderately should confound, and mistake the one VVilliam for the other.

By these doings his name came to bee spred throughout the whole Island, insomuch that Henry Lancaster Earle of Darbie hearing thereof, and being himself a valiant man, and desirous of glory, provoked him to fight with him hand to hand on horseback: but at their first encounter, the Lord of Liddesdale his hand was so sore wounded with his owne speare (which brake hard at his hand) that hee was not able to prosecute the combate, whereupon it was delayed. Major maketh mention of his justing, and joyneth Alexander Ramsay with him at Berwick: hee telleth also of one Patrick Grahame, who being provoked and challenged by an English man into the field, told him he was content; but wished him to dine well, for •…•…ee would send him to suppe in Paradise, which hee also did: hereupon hee condemns these justs and duels in time of peace; so that it should seeme there have been some peace or truce. But wee heare not of any, I doe rather thinke there hath been some assurance at that time.

That same yeare, the King of England sent a very valiant Knight na∣med Sir Thomas Barcklay into Scotland with a great power of men to assist their faction: Robert Stuart and the Lord Liddesdale goe against him, and gave him battell at Blackburne; where the Lord of Liddesdale fought* 1.8 so eagerly, that all his men being slain, he and Robert Stuart having one∣ly three left with them, continued still fighting, and defended themselves till night, which being come on, by favour thereof they escaped, and sa∣ved themselves by flight.

It was not long ere he recompensed this losse, by the defeating of John* 1.9 Stirline and his company. This Stirline with five hundreth men assailed the Lord Liddesdale at unawares, at a place called Cragens, having but fourtie in his company, as he was journeying without any feare or suspi∣cion of an enemy. This did put him into a great feare at first, but he recol∣lecting himselfe out of that sudden affrightment, fought so valiantly that hee defeated Stirline, slew fiftie of his men, and tooke fouretie pri∣soners.

Afterward the English that lay at Creighton, made divers onsets and incursions upon him, in one of which he was runne through the body with a speare, and was thereby disabled to doe any service for a sea∣son.

So soone as he was recovered, being accompanied with twenty men onely, he set upon sixty English, at a place called The blacke Shaw, and having wisely taken the advantage of the ground, which was fitter for foot then horsemen, he slew and took them every one.

In the same year 1338. the 24. of December, or as others, the 2. of No∣vember, he set upon the convoy of the English that were carrying vivers

to the Castle of Hermitage, as they were in Melrosse, or neare to it, and defeated them, but not without gre•…•…t slaughter of his owne men: and so* 1.10 having got the victuals, he went and besieged the Castle of Hermitage, •…•…ooke it, and did victuall it with the same victuall which he had taken at Melrosse.

He vanquished also Lawrence Vauch (alias Rolland Vauch) a very valiant man, with a great company of Englishmen.

And in the yeare following (1339) he fought five times in one day* 1.11 with Lawrence (or William) Abernethie, a Leader under Balliol, and having beene p•…•…t to the worse foure times, saith Hollinshed, Boetius, five times, at the sixth time vanquished him, and slew all his men, and took himselfe prisoner, and thereafter presented him to Robert Stuart, who sent him to the Castle of Dumbartan. For these and such other exploits atchieved by him, he was highly esteemed of all men, and got the name which is commonly used of him, The flowre of Chivalrie.

He was after this sent Ambassadour into France to informe King Da∣vid* 1.12 of the estate of the Realme, and to conferre with him about weighty matters, being either chosen for his worth, or only sent by Robert Stuart as his Collegue, and so fittest for that employment. While he was there he obtained pardon of the K. of France, and peace for one Hugh Hambell a famous Pirate.

During his absence in France, Robert Stuart had laid siege to St. John∣stoun* 1.13 in the yeare 1339. and had divided his Army into foure squadrons, under foure chiefe Captaines (each Captaine commanding a part) of which he himselfe was one, the Earle of March another, William Earle of Rosse the third, and Magnus Mowbray Lord of Cliddesdale the fourth. It was divers times assaulted, but they were repulsed with losse, it being va∣liantly defended by the English that were within. They had lien at it ten weekes without doing any good, and were now almost quite out of hope to take it; so that they began to thinke of leaving off, when in the very meane time the Lord Liddesdale arrives on Tay, having brought with him out of France Hambell the Pyrate, with five ships well furnished with men, munition, and weapons. These men the Lord Liddesdale had hi∣red in France of purpose for this businesse; amongst them were two Knights of the family of Castle Galliard, and two Esquires, •…•…iles de la Hayes, and John de Breise, He landed a part of the souldiers, and left the rest in the Ships to keepe the mouth of the river, and he himselfe march∣ed to Cowper in Fife to take it. It had beene deserted by the Englishmen for want of vivers in the time of Murray the Governour, and now againe it was seized by the Englized Scots for the use of the English. Their Captaine at this time was one William Bullock an English Priest, but a va∣liant man, who was also Treasurer for them and the faction. The Lord Liddesdale deales with him, that seeing there was no hope of succour from England, and that the Scots Garrison was not to be 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to, he would forsake the English faction, and enter into King Davids ser∣vice, promising to procure him lands in Scotland. Bullock accept∣ed his offer, and having obtained his promised lands, hee did much service afterward to the King and the Lord of Liddesdale. Having by

this meanes recovered Cowper, he returned to the siege of Saint John∣stoun,* 1.14 where (as he was ever forward) he was hurt in the leg with the shot of a Crosbow going to the Scalade. Neverthelesse, he departed not till the Towne was taken, or given up by the Governour thereof Thomas U∣thred.* 1.15 The manner of the taking of it was this: when the siege had lasted foure moneths, and was like to have continued longer, the Earle of Rosse by digging of Mines drew away the water, and dried up the Fous•…•…es and Ditches, so that the Souldiers going to the assault upon dry ground, and approaching the walls without any let or difficultie, beat the defenders from off the walls, especially by shooting of darts and arrowes out of the Engines which they had caused make: And so they rendred, and depart∣ed with bag and baggage in the yeare 1340.

Within foure dayes after Stirline was also besieged, and rendred on the* 1.16 same conditions.

After the siege of Saint Johnstoun was ended, the Lord Liddesdale re∣warded the Frenchmen very liberally, and sent them backe into France well contented. He caused also restore to Hugh Hambell one of his best Ships, which was taken by the enemie during the siege. For Hambell ha∣ving adventured to approach the Towne with his Ships to give an as∣sault, one of them was taken by the English, and now was restored.

Thus K. Davids party did flourish by the faithfull valour of these his good and notable subjects, and prevaile against the pretended K. Balliol: who seeing such successe in K. Davids affaires, durst show his face no longer▪ but having lurked a while in Galloway, by changing and shifting places for feare of being intercepted, and wearying of that kinde of life, he returnes into England now the second time after his conquest; he did not possesse his Kingdome long, and but with little ease or contentment, what by the Scots chasing of him, what by the King of England (his good Master) detaining of him little better then a captive. A shadow of a king∣dome, or slaverie rather; being miserable indeed, yet sees he not his mi∣serie, but seeketh it againe, and loseth it againe.

But let us returne to our Lord of Liddesdale, who desists not here from doing of good service to his King and Countrey. Edinburgh Castle is yet in the possession of the English: it was too strong to force, wisedome must supply, which was not lacking in him, no more then valour; a good harmonie, and happy conjunction, which were ever to be wished! There was one Walter Towers (of whom are descended the Towers of Innerleith)* 1.17 a man of his acquaintance, and a follower of him, had (by chance) a Ship laden with victuall in the Firth of T•…•…y beside Dundie. Liddesdale causeth him to bring about his Ship to Forth, where (as he was instructed) feign∣ing himselfe to be an English Merchant, and sending some flagons of ve∣ry fine wine to the Captaine of the Castle, he prayed him to take him in∣to* 1.18 his protection, and that he would give such order as the rest of his vi∣ctuall might be free from all danger and perill of his souldiers, and of the enemie; promising that if the Garrision in the Castle had need of any thing, he should command any thing that was in his power, so •…•…arre as it could reach. The Captaine desired him to send some hogsheads of the same wine, and some bisket bread, and promised him accesse when he

pleased: he further warned him that he should come timely in the morn∣ing for feare of the Scots, that did make frequent onsets and incursions in those parts. The Lord of Liddesdale being advertised hereof, chooseth out 12. of his best men, and the same night goeth out to Walter Towers ship, and he and his men having borrowed the Mariners apparell, did put it on above their Armour, and so went to the Castle, carrying the wine and victuall with them: he had before placed the rest of his men as neare as he could, that they might be in readinesse, upon a signe given them, to come to the Castle to his aid. Liddisdale himselfe, with Simeon Fraser, and William Bullock (say our Writers, but his name was Sir John Bullock) went a little before, and the rest followed a certaine space after. When they were let in within the Bulwarke, perceiving the keyes of the Castle hanging upon the Porters arme, they slew him, and without noise opened the gate, and presently gave the signall, by winding of a horne. This sound gave warning both to his friends and enemies, that the Castle was taken. Both made haste, the one to defend, the other to pursue; but the Scots having a steep hill to ascend, behoved to come forward the more slowly: for that cause (lest their Lord should be excluded from his men) they cast down the carriage in the gate to keep it open, and having fought* 1.19 a sharp fight, at last they that were within gave place: the Captaine with six more were taken, the rest were all slaine. And having thus wonne the Castle, he made his brother William Douglas (say they, but should call him Archbald) Keeper and Captain thereof.

This same yeare or the next (1342. the 30. of March) Alexander Ram∣say tooke Roxburgh in Tividale, and sone after John Randulph was set at liberty in exchange for John Montague taken in France (saith Major) and tooke in his owne Castle of Lochma-bene in Annandale.

So that by the industrie and efforts of these three Wairdens, the Lord Liddesdale in the middle March, Alexander Ramsay in the East, and John Randulph in the West: the English were wholy expelled out of Scotland beyond the Borders, which fell out in the time of Edward the third: nei∣ther did the English men possesse one foote of Scottish ground, excepting the towne of Berwick. Such good service did these Noblemen, with the other good Nobilitie, in the minoritie and absence of their Prince from his Countrey, against the great force of England, and a great part of their owne Countrey of Scotland, being unfaithfull Subjects, unnaturall Scot∣tishmen. And this these Nobles did even for the love they bore to King Robert, this Davids father, bearing the heat of the day for him, while he is at ease and securitie, with watching, hunger, thirst, cold and great effusion of their bloud, to make the Kingdome peaceable to him, choosing to adventure their lands, their lives, and whatsoever worldly thing is deare unto men, rather then to abandon him, and follow his enemies with ease and quietnesse, under whom they might have lived a peaceable life; if they would set aside regard unto their honour and duetie.

Such is the force of the love of Subjects, beyond all strength of men, and riches of treasures, onely able to bide a stresse, and hold out: As may bee seen by this example to bee remarked greatly by subjects, and enter∣tained above all treasure by Soveraignes, and to be accounted a chiefe, yea

almost the onely point of true policy, to love and make much of all men, and most specially their Nobilitie; that they may in such their Princes straits (when they shall happen) endure the better as these men did, which they could not have done, if they had not had authority and de∣pendance, and so been respected by their inferiours: who so would dimi∣nish this authority in Noblemen; abasing them too farre, and making them suspect to Princes, and not safe for them, they erre greatly in poli∣cie, and unadvisedly cut the props of the Princes standing, which being brangled but a little, his Kingdome is easily bereft him, all authoritie go∣ing away with his owne person: It fell well out with King David Bruce, that these Noblemen were not so, and therefore the more able to doe so great things for him.

After these things, they sent Ambassadours to desire King David to come home, and so hee did the 2▪ of June that same yeare. His first Act was carefully to inquire for, and gratefully to reward such as had suffered in his service, a prudent Act; But allas (the mal heur) it falleth often out that Princes know not all things, and ere they be informed, they many times conclude. The cause of many errours and much mischief hath hap∣pened thereby, as it fell out here. We have heard how the Lord of Liddes∣dale (amongst many his notable services) had in speciall expelled the English out of Tividale, and diverse other places, by his wisedome and valour, and was therefore rewarded with the same lands, which he injoy∣ed afterwards as his rightfull inheritance▪ from thenceforth he so used it, as in a manner conquered by himself. He was Wairden, and so defended it: defending ministred justice, and discharged the place and office of Sheriffe, having wonne it from the enemy. This hee did with the tacite consent of the Countrey, and by allowance of those that were in au∣thoritie.

Thus being in possession, and trusting to his deserving towards King and Countrey, and the Nobilitie of his bloud, and potencie of that house he was come of; he looked for no competitour in that which he had ta∣ken from the enemy. And not knowing or not caring for the Law (as is customable to Martiall men) or perhaps being prevented, being slower in going to King David, or on some such like occasion: the Sheriffe-ship is given from him to another. Alexander Ramsay was amongst the first that welcomed King David at his return, and was received kindly as hee had merited, and much made of by him, who for his service gave him the keeping of the Castle of Roxbrough, and together with it (whether of the Kings owne free and mere motion, or any other suggestion, or by Ram∣sayes procurement) the Sheriffe-ship of Tividale, very unadvisedly if hee knew Liddesdales interesse, very ill formed, if he knew it not. Very im∣prudently (say our Writers) who blame the Kings indiscretion, for giving it from William Douglas Lord of Liddesdale, to Alexander Ramsay; and for withdrawing of it from so worthy a man, so well deserving to whom∣soever, for that was to make a division among his owne: so it proved, for VVilliam Douglas of Liddesdale tooke it very highly that Alexander Ram∣say, should be preferred before him to that office. But hee was chiefly in∣censed against the taker of it, as having done him a great indignitie, which

makes it apparant that hee hath not onely accepted of it, but sued for it: therefore set altogether on revenge, he suppressed his ire for that present. But after some three moneths, as Alexander Ramsay was exercising the of∣fice in Hawick, and looked for no such thing: hee set upon him, and ha∣ving slain three of his men that stood to the defence of their master, hee hurt himself, and casting him on a horse, carried him to the Hermitage,* 1.20 where hee died of famine, according to the testimony of sundry of our Writers, and the black booke of S•…•…ne, where it is showen that hee was taken the 20. of June, and keeped seventeene dayes without meat, save that some few grains of corne, which falling downe out of a corne loft which was above him, were gathered by him and eaten.

Such is the unbridlednesse of anger (justly called fury) to be greatly blamed in him, yet they marke the cause thereof, the Kings unadvised∣nesse in procuring thereby the losse and ruine of so worthy a man of war, farre from his fathers prudencie and probitie. The King (not acquainted yet with military dispositions) was marvellously moved therewith, and purposed to have punished it exemplarily to deterre others from doing the like, and therefore caused search very diligently to have apprehended Liddesdale, but in vain: for hee withdrew himself to the mountains, and desert places▪ and in time obtained pardon by the sute of his friends, of whom he had purchased good store by his worthy acts for the liberty of his Countrey; Among whom Robert Stuart the Kings sisters sonne was his speciall good friend. That which most effectually served to procure him favour, was the magnificke, but true commemoration of the great exploits atchieved by him, the consideration of the time, in respect whereof (the peace being uncertain without, and things not very quiet at home) military men were to bee entertained, and used with all favour. By this occasion he did not onely obtain pardon for his fault, but hee got also the gift of keeping of the Castle of Roxbrough, and Sheriffeship of Tivedale (and all other his lands in Tivedale, or elsewhere restored to him) which the other had, and which were the cause of the slaughter. This clemencie of King David was (perhaps profitable for that time, but pernicious in example.) This fell out (as hath been said) three moneths after the Kings coming home, and therefore in October, or (perhaps in* 1.21 September) at the head Court in Hawick. His pardon was obtained,* 1.22 and his peace made with the King a little before the battell of Durham, which was in the yeare 1346. the 17. of October: So as hee hath beene three or foure yeares a banished man.

After his returne from banishment, finding the King bent upon his journey against England, he wisely and earnestly disswaded him, and did exhort him first to take order with the discorders at home, and before all things to settle them. For the Earle of Rosse had slain the Lord of the Isles, whereby a great party of the Kings army was diminished, the Lord of the Isles men lying back for want of a head; and so the Lord Rosse, and his men for feare of punishment. So did also many others that lay neare them, retire and go home, fearing least they should suffer in their absence by their neighbourhood to those disagreeing Lords, and be some way endamaged; wherefore they thought good to provide in time, the

best they could against all perrills that might happen. For this cause hee councelled the King, first to settle peace amongst his owne subjects be∣fore he enterprised a forraign war; that peace being settled, and his army united, he might the more strongly, and with better successe invade Eng∣land. But the King contemning his good and wholsome counsell, (his French friendship prevailing more with him, then either his owne good, or the good of his Countrey) hee raised an army wherewith hee entred England, and was encountred by the English at Durham, where the Scots* 1.23 were defeated, King David Bruce taken prisoner, and with him (beside o∣thers) VVilliam Earle of Douglas, and the Lord of Liddesdale, who were shortly after ransomed or dismissed so much the more easily, for that they had the King, and so cared the lesse for others. This fell out in the yeare 1346. October the 17. as hath been said.

While the Lord Liddesdale is a prisoner amongst his enemies, he for∣getteth* 1.24 not his friends at home. Sir David Barcklay had slain one John Douglas, brother to Sir VVilliam, and father to Sir James of Dalkeith (say our Writers) beside Horsewood: but they should say rather, brother to Sir William, (for there Sir William is the same Lord of Liddesdale, of whom wee now speake, sonne naturall to good Sir James) neither was John Douglas slain in Horsewood, but in Kinrosher, by Loch-leven. This Barcklay also had taken Sir John Bullock at the Kings command, and put him in prison in Lindores, where hee died of hunger almost in the same sort that Sir Alexander Ramsay died. The Writers lay the blame on the Nobilitie that envied so worthy a man, and accused him falsely to the King of unsaithfulnesse; but they tell not in what point. They themselves call him a worthy Chaplain of great wisedome, singular prudencie, and eloquence, beyond any in his time, who had been Chamberlain to Ed∣ward Balliol, Treasurer to the rest of the Englishmen in Scotland, and last∣ly, Chamberlain to King David, and amongst the chief of his Counsel∣lers reputed as another Chussay. Neverthelesse, thus was he delated, and taken away, having done divers good offices in the Common-wealth, and being very necessary unto it. The Lord of Liddesdale had drawne him from the English faction to King Davids party, and he had used him in good services, whereof hee was not forgetfull, ever remaining one of his speciall friends. This giveth men matter of suspition, that his death was for ill will to the Lord of Liddesdale by the King incensed against him, never digesting in heart the death of Sir Alexander Ramsay, whereby the King is blamed, as counseller or follower thereof; and that Sir David Barcklay enemy to him, did execute it willingly, or did procure the Kings command thereto. The taking of the Castle of Edinburgh, in the yeare 1341. by the Lord of Liddesdale, was plotted by Sir John Bullock, say the Writers, who in quicknesse of wit, and sharpnesse of invention past all men in his dayes. In revenge of this, Liddesdale causeth slay Sir David Barcklay, by the hands of Sir John Saint Michaell (say they) but they should have said Carmichaell in Aberdene. A just fact, but not justly done; the matter was good, the forme ill, being besides and against all order, but who could wait for order in so disordered a Countrey? when should hee by order of law have obtained justice, his Prince being in

captivitie; his duetie to his friends defendeth the fact, the estate of the Countrey excuseth the forme. God looketh not so upon things: hee had before (as wee heard) slain Sir Alexander Ramsay, he must not want his owne share, but who durst doe it? The avenger of bloud finds the means. Such is the estate of man, what can they lean to on earth? ere he do not pay that debt of bloud, the Earle of Douglas shall exact it; his Chief, his Cousin, and to adde that also his owne sonne in Baptisme (as the Lord Liddesdale was to the Earle of Douglas, for the black book of Scone calleth him his spirituall father) and thus it came to passe.

The Lord of Liddesdale being at his pastime, hunting in Attrick For∣rest,* 1.25 is beset by William Earle of Douglas, and such as hee had ordained* 1.26 for that purpose, and there assailed, wounded and slain beside Galsewood in the yeare 1353. upon a jealousie that the Earle had conceived of him with his Lady, as the report goeth, for so sayes the old song.

The Countesse of Douglas, out of her Boure she came, And loudly there that she did call; It is for the Lord of Liddesdale, That I let all these teares downe fall.

The song also declareth how shee did write her love letters to Liddis∣dale, to disswade him from that hunting. It tells likewise the manner of the taking of his men, and his owne killing at Galsewood, and how hee was carried the first night to Lindin Kirk, a mile from Selkirk, and was buried within the Abbacie of Melrosse.

The cause pretended, or the cause of this slaughter, is by our Writers alledged to be the killing of this Alexander Ramsay, and Sir David Barklay, and some other grudges, and so the Earle said himself, as they say, and so it was indeed, if we looke unto God; but who doth beleeve him, that it was on his part? no Writers, no report, no opinion of men doth beleeve it, not untill this day. They lay the cause on his ambition, on his envie of Liddesdales honour, and jealousie of his greatnesse. Reason swaies to the same side, and brings great if not necessary arguments: for what had hee to doe with Alexander Ramsay, that he should for his sake dippe his hands in his owne bloud? farre lesse for Sir David Barcklay, on whom he him∣self should have taken avengement, if the Lord Liddesdale had not done it; this John Douglas whom Barcklay slew, being so neare to himselfe; but something must bee said to colour things. But this will not colour this blemish, though in a faire body indeed as we shall see hereafter. Doth ambition spring from a great minde? Doth envie, of vertue? jealousie, of hatred? Let noble hearts eschew them; it is the basest thought that can fall into a mans mind. Right minds love vertue, even in strangers, even in enemies; generous minds strive to do better, not to hinder such as do well. It is a strange maxime and ill grounded, a wicked wisedome and perverse policy, to keep backe ones friend in whom vertue appeares. It is of follies the greatest folly, to hinder their growth, for fear they should overgrow our greatnesse; the which when we doe, it comes to passe that wee are outgrowne by strangers, and often by our enemies: yea under∣mined

oftentimes, while our friends (thus kept under) are unable to un∣derprop us, as they both should and would do: a just reward of so unjust wisedome. But for themselves to put hand in them for their worth, I can finde no name to it. I must wish this Nobleman had beene free from so foul a blot, and I would fain vindicate him, and some small appearance there is, that it was not his fact. But the current of witnesses lay it upon him, and who can contend against all the world. Wherefore let us regrate it and not allow it, eschew it and not excuse it, or follow it, as we are too ready to follow evill examples.

To returne, thus he lived, and thus hee died, for whose Elogium short, but worthie; let it be said (as it was then blazed in the mouthes of men, and cited by the manuscript) He was terrible and fearefull in armes; meek, milde and gentle, in peace; the scourge of England, and sure buckler and wall of Scotland, whom neither hard successe could make slack, nor prosperous sloathfull. Hee is stiled by the Writers a second to none, and by consent of that age and voyce of the people, the flowre of Chivalrie: he was of∣ten wounded, thrice a prisoner, and ever ready to fight again, what man∣hood? what wisedome behoved it to be? with fifty men, to overcome five hundreth: with twenty, to take and slay sixtie. What invincible minde was it, that being defeated five times in one day, hee had the cou∣rage to fight and overcome the sixth time. Let Hanniball wonder at Marcellus, that neither overcoming, nor overcome, would suffer him to rest: yet was he not thus restlesse that we reade of, a worthy branch of such a stock, a true member of such a house, well retaining that naturall sappe sucked from his Predecessours, of valour, and of love to his Coun∣trey. And thus farre concerning the name of Douglas in this branch there∣of, in the time of the minority or absence of the chief. Now let us return to the Principall stock, the Earle of Douglas himself.

Gulielmus Douglassius Liddalianus, 1333. caesus

Omnia quando habeas, quae Mars dedit omnibus unus Ut Mars Marte ferox fulminet alta tuo, Hoc putes ut patiare parem; tibi Defuit unum hoc: Quin age posce hostem caetera solus eris.

Johns Heroes.

In English thus.

Whiles thou alone all valour didst enjoy, Mars doth bestow on those he would imploy, One onely vertue wanting, doth appeare To make thee excellent, thou couldst not beare An equall, bate this pride, and thou shalt have This honour never souldier was more brave.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Sonne natu∣rall to Sir James.
• * 1.2

  Her marriage
• * 1.3

  One childe 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.4

  1335
• * 1.5

  Convention▪ at Perth, 2. April. 1335.
• * 1.6

  Cummin o∣verthrown at Kilblane, and slain.
• * 1.7

  1337.
• * 1.8

  A battell at Blackburne.
• * 1.9

  John Stirline defeated by Liddesdale.
• * 1.10

  He takes the Castle of Hermitage.
• * 1.11

  Hee fighteth five times with Lawrence in one day, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 him.
• * 1.12

  He is sent Ambassadour into France.
• * 1.13

  Perth besieg∣ed by Robert Stuart.
• * 1.14

  Recovereth Cowper.
• * 1.15

  Perth taken.
• * 1.16

  Stirline taken
• * 1.17

  The originall of Innerleith.
• * 1.18

  Occ•…•…sion of taking the Castle of E∣dinburgh.
• * 1.19

  The Castle taken, hee makes Arch∣bald Douglas his brother Keeper.
• * 1.20

  Alexander Ramsay taken by Liddisdale, and starved in the Her∣mitage.
• * 1.21

  1346.
• * 1.22

  He is banish∣ed and resto∣red again.
• * 1.23

  The battell of Durham. King David taken.
• * 1.24

  Liddesdale taken also.
• * 1.25

  1353
• * 1.26

  He is slaine by the Earle of Douglas.