An old Scottish lady, many generations ago, used to say, 'It is a great comfort to think that, at the Day of Judgment, we shall know the whole truth about the Gowrie Conspiracy at last.' Since the author, as a child, read 'The Tales of a Grandfather,' and shared King Jamie's disappointment when there was no pot of gold, but an armed man, in the turret, he had supposed that we do know all about the Gowrie Conspiracy, that it was a plot to capture the King, carry him to Fastcastle, and 'see how the country would take it,' as in the case of the Gunpowder Plot. But just as Father Gerard has tried to show that the Gunpowder affair may have been Cecil's plot, so modern historians doubt whether the Gowrie mystery was not a conspiracy by King James himself.

Andrew Lang's 'James VI and the Gowrie Mystery' delves into a compelling historical mystery surrounding the 17th-century Scottish monarch, James VI. Lang's meticulous research and engaging narrative style bring to light the mysterious events surrounding the Gowrie Conspiracy, offering readers a glimpse into the political intrigues and conspiracies of the Scottish court. Drawing from primary sources and historical documents, Lang's book presents a thorough examination of the events and their implications within the context of Scottish history. His analytical approach and attention to detail make this book a valuable resource for those interested in both history and mystery literature. As a renowned scholar and folklorist, Andrew Lang's interest in uncovering hidden historical truths and exploring folklore traditions is evident in his work. His background in literature and history provides a solid foundation for his investigation of the Gowrie Mystery, offering readers a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the events surrounding the conspiracy. Lang's expertise in the field enriches the narrative, making it a compelling read for history enthusiasts and mystery lovers alike. I highly recommend 'James VI and the Gowrie Mystery' to readers interested in delving into a fascinating historical enigma. Lang's meticulous research, engaging writing style, and deep understanding of the subject matter make this book a must-read for anyone intrigued by historical mysteries and the intricacies of royal intrigue.

There is nothing new under the sun', a phrase ascribed originally to King Solomon, applies to the present book, with echoes of 'modern' themes exposing royal scandal, sex, corruption, political absolutism - attempted - religious controversy, danger of mass-terrorism, murder and 'suspicious' deaths, 'fake news' and international threat from superpowers. And all focusing on inside stories which today would be 'investigative journalism' with huge popular media interest. This is history for both specialists and, especially, for general readers, given media interest, including TV and film coverage in 'exciting' popular history, as set out by the author. The earlier 'Royal Mysteries' in the series were full of tragedy, suffering, pathos, heroism and romance, but the present set are equally interesting and disturbing and revisionist. These include the alleged attempt to murder James I and VI before the became King of England; the scandal at court involving 'poisoned tarts', James' 'toy-boy', and a subsequent murder trial. And the following questions and mysteries: did Charles II really promise to convert to Catholicism to please Louis XIV; did Charles marry his mistress Lucy Walter, mother of rebel Duke of Monmouth; was James II and VII an enlightened religious reformer or trying to convert England to Catholicism - the religion of European superpowers; did George I 'disappear' (a 'hit' in modern terms) his divorced wife's lover before ascending the English throne; did the unpopular Duke of Cumberland murder his gay lover; did the hugely admired 'respectable' George III, devoted husband and father, marry a middle-class Quaker woman?

Includes its Report, 1896-19 .

July 1660, Falkland Palace, Fife. After rescuing King James the Sixth from a runaway horse, Tam Elidor finds himself in favour. As the King's new object of affection Tam has become the target for jealous courtiers - and their attentions are seriously hampering his investigation into the murder of Margaret Agnew. Why was the Queen's midwife killed - was it a case of mistaken identity, is it related to secrets from James's past and could Tam's good friend Tansy be at risk? Dangerous forces are at work, forces that will lead the King to Gowrie House and to a mystery that remains unsolved today...