February 5, 1603
Papa rode out today headed for Glen Fruin with 386 men at his back. 'Twas an impressive site to be
sure.
Mama and I stood on the steps of the keep to see him off. No other person save myself and mayhap
Elsie, saw the tear glisten on Mama's eyelash. She stood tall and proud as a Highlander's wife should
do when her man is riding out to battle. But I know she is concerned. 'Tis rumored the Laird of Luss
can gather many more men. But Papa must do this. His honor and that of the Clan is at stake.
Humphrey Colquhoun should ha'e remembered the rules of hospitality and offered our clansmen shelter
from the storm. Instead, when they took refuge in an outhouse and it was discovered they had killed a
sheep to feed themselves, he tried them by summary trial and sentenced them to death.
Och, I ha'e a verra bad feeling about this. I but pray that Papa returns safely and we dinnae suffer too
many losses.
Caitlyn
February 9, 1603
The men have returned! Papa and the men rode into the courtyard today just before the noon meal.
The battle was a success with few losses on our side. Father is worried, however. Though they have
brought many captives with them to hold for ransom, it seems that Father's foster brother, Dugald
murdered over 40 of them in cold blood! Papa is incensed as well he should be. The battle itself may
ha'e been won, but because of Dugald's actions, Papa feels the destruction of our Clan is imminent.
Especially as the victims were all unarmed innocents.
I know not what Dugald was thinking to commit such a heinous crime, nor does anyone else, least of all
Papa. He will be severely punished and even now sits in the dungeon awaiting his judgment. I know
that 'twill nay help the situation, though. Especially after the King hears of it.
What should have been a day of celebration has turned into mourning and concern over what is surely to
come in a short time...
Caitlyn
