When James became king, the Earl of Mar was made his guardian. His wife, Lady Annabella Murray, the Countess of Mar, organised the royal household at Stirling Castle. She was responsible for looking after James when he was a boy. George Buchanan, one of the most learned men in Scotland, was appointed to supervise his education. James proved to be an able scholar.
This is the earliest surviving letter of James VI, written in his own hand when he was about 6 years old. He refers to the Countess as Lady ‘Minny’ an affectionate Scots word for ‘mother’.
There is 1 image in this section with 1 online and 2 printable activities.
Read about the source then click on the magnifying glass to enlarge the image. Use the information in the source to help answer the questions in the activities. Click on the transcript icon to view a transcript of the letter.
Match the old Scots words to the modern words. Type the modern words in the boxes opposite the old words.
Your Name:
Your Class:
Modern words = fruit, you, give, while, please, show, when
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