[MR] Wikipedia: Battle of Largs

[Garth Groff via Atlantia]

Noble Friends,

On this date in 1263 the Norse king Hakkon was repelled from an attack 
along the Scottish coast by forces led by Alexander of Dundonald at the 
Battle of Largs: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Largs . 
Although this battle was inconclusive, it ultimately had the effect of 
breaking the Norse hold on parts of Scotland.

It is possible that it was at the Battle of Largs that the founder of 
the Napier line was knighted. According to the usual story, Donald, the 
5th son of the Earl of Lennox, was still a youth and was assigned to 
guard the baggage train. When the battle was going against the Scots, he 
drew his sword and led the other squires and small folk into the fight, 
which saved the Scottish forces. The king (possibly Alexander III) 
knighted Donald after the battle, saying he had "nae peer".

A good story, and possibly somewhat true. The time is about right, but 
Alexander was not present at Largs. A more likely possibility is 
suggested by the Wikipedia article. It mentions that Hakon had raided 
the Lennox, and it is possible that Donald's knighthood (if it actually 
happened) was during skirmishing in that area. Alexander III apparently 
was in southwestern Scotland around that time. We will probably never know.

Yours Aye,


Lord Mungo Napier, That Crazy Scot