They are a powerful family, being connected by marriage with the Comyns of Badenoch, and other noble houses.

Their lands in Ayr are as extensive as those in Lanark, even with your father's lands added to their own.

However, if Scotland win the day the good work that you have done should well outweigh all the influence which they might bring to bear against you.
"And now, Archie, I can, for a time, release you.

Ere long Edward's army will be pouring across the Border, and then I shall need every good Scotchman's sword.

Till then you had best retire to your new estates, and spend the time in preparing your vassals to follow you in the field, and in putting one or other of your castles in the best state of defence you may.