Sir Valentine was Governor of Berwick in May 1573. during the "Lang Siege" of Edinburgh Castle during the Marian civil war (1568–1573). After the siege acquired some of the jewels of Mary, Queen of Scots that Sir William Drury brought from Scotland His page Gilbert Edward stole jewels from him including a diamond and ruby studded gold mermaid with a diamond shield or mirror, and a gold chain marked with Sir Valentine's initials "v. b." at the clasp. The costume of the runaway page was described, with yellow doublet, peach coloured hose, blue stockings, and a grey hat. Sir Valentine's management of finance at Berwick was criticised several times.