The Chilling Murder of Sir John Melville of Glenbervie

In the dimly lit annals of history, a tale of treachery, power struggles, and heinous crimes unfolds against the backdrop of medieval Scotland. Our story takes us back to the early 15th century when Scotland was marked by a complex tapestry of clans, shifting allegiances, and a constant quest for control. It is within this tumultuous setting that the chilling murder of Sir John Melville of Glenbervie took place, leaving an indelible mark on the pages of Scottish history.

Sir John Melville: The Unpopular Sheriff

Sir John Melville was no ordinary figure in medieval Scotland. Born into nobility, he ascended to the role of Sheriff of Mearns, a position of considerable authority in the region. However, his tenure would be marked by controversy and discontent. The barons of Mearns found Sir John's rule to be harsh and oppressive. His governance, marked by the imposition of strict laws and the harsh treatment of the local population, made him deeply unpopular among the ruling elite.

Complaints and Royal Impatience

As grievances against Sir John Melville continued to mount, they eventually reached the ears of King James I (or, according to some accounts, the Duke of Albany), the reigning monarch at the time. The complaints against the sheriff were so numerous and vociferous that they led to an unguarded moment for the king. In a fit of impatience, King James uttered a cryptic and ominous wish: "Sorrow gin the sheriff were sodden and supped in broo'!" Little did he know that this seemingly offhand remark would set in motion a sinister plan to fulfill his wish.