Furthermore, the Earl of Carrick, by the assent and power of his father, took the lady of Scotland's castle of Wigtown, and killed several people there. The strong personality of Robert the Bruce now makes itself felt. With the death of Edward I., his cause gained strength, and emerging from the rocky fastnesses and retreats of Glentrool, where he had been hunted like the native tod and brock, he meets with success after success that almost foretells the triumphant field of Bannockburn. But Galloway has not forgotten the murder of Comyn, the grandson of Devorgilla, and views his success with ill-concealed disfavour. To bring that district into a more proper state of mind, Edward Bruce, the King's brother, sweeps through the province, dealing death and destruction.
Engagement follows engagement.
On the slopes of Kirroughtree, with but fifty horsemen, taking advantage of a friendly mist, the younger Bruce attacks and almost cuts to pieces a force of 1500 English and Galwegians under Sir John de St. John. Stronghold after stronghold falls, to the number of thirteen. Buittle Castle alone remains untaken. An entry from Bain's Calendar of Documents describes the situation in July, 1312. The bearer will relate matters touching the King's dignity.