IV
Scotland
Dingwall Castle
June 1309
Dearest Isa,
Your news was well-received. It would give me much pleasure if we might continue to correspond. Murchadh found us. At Delny Castle, he was redirected – quite tersely it seems – by the lady of the house. Nor was sustenance offered to one who had made first landfall after a long journey. Hugh raged at this breach. His mother continues to find ill favour with my family, but I cautioned him on speaking to her thus. I seek to build bridges, not have them burnt before my eyes by his temper, albeit in my support. Indeed, Robert's request we live in Dingwall Castle is evidence of his foresight. Had I to live under the demanding gaze of the Countess of Ross, life would be miserable indeed.
Nothing I do is right, though it matters nought for it is rare we meet. Recently, I gave birth. Hugh was so relieved the babe and I survived the ordeal, his disappointment at the lack of an heir soon passed. Now, he is besotted. I am sure you of all people will understand this. However, an even greater misdemeanour has been committed, for the child bears not the name of Euphemia. This earned Hugh a sound reprimand. He would not allow me to read the letter, but threw it in the hearth. By the look on his face, the message already had sufficient fuel to fire the page.
It shames me to say that I have become quite fond of Hugh's father. He seeks respite here from his lady wife. I feel sure it must have been at her insistence he captured our family. He fears her wrath far more than any English king. It is said she was rewarded many times over for her support. Some infer she was the king's paramour, though Hugh doubts it, for she saw so little of him in person. Nevertheless, the earl adores Marjorie and comes often to bounce her upon his knee and sing silly ditties. How could a mother not warm to such a man?
Whenever possible, our wayward brother, Edward, visits Dingwall to meet with Hugh's sister. This is another cause for the countess's dislike of our family. I am sure she wishes for a more suitable husband for Isabella and in that, I cannot blame her. He comes embroiled in scandal having repudiated Isobel of Strathbogie. Now, her brother, another supporter of the English, seeks revenge for his sister's humiliation and distress. The countess does not seem to mind Robert. He can be charming – when he puts his mind to it – and has always been attractive to women, but Edward she sees as someone given to impulsive behaviour and one not to be trusted. He desires above all else to be Isabella's lawful husband, but some problem with consanguinity has come to light, which must be addressed with the Pope. Though mightily frustrated by these events, our brother is set upon this path. Isabella dotes upon his every word, which is difficult to take as you might imagine.
Now to more important things! Floraidh came to help me with my delivery, courtesy of Murchadh. Her knowledge and patience assisted me through my travail. She brought news as well. I had hoped she might remain here to tend our household, but tomorrow the captain sails north while the weather holds. I am assured my midwife will return when needed.
Hugh and I have discussed bringing the family here. Though the north of Scotland is mostly in Robert's hands, there are still pockets of disaffection here and there. With Argyll to the southwest of us teetering and a strong English presence in many of the castles, it is not safe as yet. Without siege engines, Rob's men must try to win by stratagem which is no small task. Banff, Perth and Dundee castles are held by our enemies and are able to have supplies replenished by sea. In the south, there are many fortifications in hostile hands: Stirling, Edinburgh as well as Berwick and Roxburgh – where Isobel and Mary are believed to be held – just to name a few. Galloway, Ayr and Carrick are riddled with our enemies.
By all accounts, our family continues to be as happy as I was on Orkney; such a peaceful, comforting place, though the weather is frequently foul. The freedom of the big skies, the wind-driven clouds, the sea visible at every turn and the birdsong could bring joy to the weariest heart. I miss our family, but for the moment I am caught up with my husband and child and managing the castle here. Hugh is a dear man whom I adore, though I must admit it was not always so. I was fearfully angry, anguished to be more precise, with Robert's choice, but our brother is wise beyond his years and a strong judge of character. He and Sir William have become friends as well and, on occasions, he has stayed at the earl's hunting lodge.
Many thanks for the gifts sent earlier this year. The great white fur we have upon our bed. It keeps us warm when the north wind howls across the marshes. The knives with fish teeth handles we use for special occasions. Hugh thanks you for the gift of the falcons. Our brothers will enjoy hunting with them when they visit. You will understand I have not taken to hunting or hawking, as it was not the usual practice in our community on Orkney; the farms provided all our provisions.
My wedding was memorable, for our brothers attended. I was relieved to be able to make my peace with Robert beforehand. In doing so, he shared with me his beliefs which form the cornerstone of his kingship. Most challenging of all is the concept that revenge will never end a war. At times I would wish it otherwise, for our family has been sore hurt, but Rob says Scotland cannot continue at war, divided as we are. We have neither the strength nor resources, which is why he chose to make his own peace with the earl and entwine our families through kinship.
Our brother believes the mark of a great king lies in his capacity to show mercy. Diplomacy will always win out over the sword – fine words indeed, but it goes without saying our opponents need to lay down their weapons. Rob is no fool and his decisions are based on logic and good reason. He knows the unhappiness his decisions cause, but neither will he veer from his path. There was sorrow when he spoke thus and I accepted his admission. We speak of men growing into their manhood: our brother has grown into his kinghood. All must be done for the community of the realm. I have never seen him so impassioned. Of course, it might help if he kept his temper under control; Edward seems to get a tongue lashing on a regular basis for one thing or another.
There is much to tell about my life here. Hugh is away so often in Rob's service that I must see to the needs of our large estate. Having spent much of my life in a small community, I am ill equipped to do so and must rely heavily upon our household. No doubt I will learn in time to be more of a chatelaine, especially if I am to be the future Countess of Ross. Kirsty always made it look so easy. Forgive me for mentioning her name. My heart is heavy, knowing she is in such peril. Pray she and Mary, and all our dear kin, are still alive.
My good sisters visit from time to time. They are light-hearted and always bring a welcome smile to my face. Feeding our guests, whether they be fifty or five hundred, is my biggest challenge though we have several cooks – sadly none like Mhairi or Aonghas. For the most part, I am well content. It would be far worse if my lord husband were old and feeble – though perhaps I could outrun him! As it is, I am fortunate indeed for I have no desire to run from Hugh. We send our good wishes to you all.
Mathilda
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