A Macbethian Story

 Many Kirkpatricks know the story of Roger Kirkpatrick with Robert de Bruce and the murder of Red Comyn in Greyfriars Church in Dumfries; after all, that’s where we got the bloody dagger as the coat of arms and the motto “I mak siccar.”  However, there’s more to the story.

First, for those who may not know about the Red Comyn murder, here’s the story.

Edward I of England was the ruler over both England and Scotland.  The Scots were oppressed, so a rebellion was ensuing.  Those who were considered candidates for the Scottish crown were Robert de Bruce and Red Comyn, who struck a deal: Bruce suggested, “Support my title to the crown and I will give you all my lands, or give me all your lands and I will support your title to the crown.” Because Comyn’s claim to the crown was weaker, he chose the land in exchange for supporting Bruce. They took an oath of fidelity and secrecy, which Comyn broke by going to Edward I and telling him of the agreement. 

After escaping the wrath of Edward I, Bruce met Comyn at the Dumfries church, along with several barons, which included Roger Kirkpatrick and James Lindsay. The meeting turned into an argument, which escalated into a fight, where Bruce stabbed Comyn in front of the high altar. Bruce ran to get his horse and said, “I doubt that I have slain Comyn.”  It is said that Kirkpatrick responded, “Doubtest thou? I mak siccar.” (I’ll make sure.) Kirkpatrick and Lindsay both went in, and Kirkpatrick killed Comyn while Lindsay killed one of Comyn’s relatives - I think an uncle.  This happened in 1306. I’ve been to where this took place - it’s now a parking lot, but with a sign that says “Comyn Court.” There is a more recent Greyfriars Church near the location, and a plaque that credits Kirkpatrick with killing Comyn. (above)

Now here’s the rest of the story.  In true Macbethian fashion, it is said there was a prophecy.  After the murder, the Dominican monks watched over the corpse of Comyn, and a night after his death, all but one had fallen asleep.  The one old monk who remained awake heard a voice “like an infant in distress exclaim: ‘How Oh Lord, shall vengeance be deferred?’” Another voice responded, “Endure with patience, till the anniversary of this day shall return a fifty-second time.” Flash forward fifty two years, and the son of Roger Kirkpatrick (also named Roger) offered hospitality to the son of James Lindsay at Caerlaverock Castle.  For some reason, (some stories suggest a love triangle between Kirkpatick, Lindsay, and Kirkpatrick’s wife) Lindsay arose in the night and stabbed Kirkpatrick to death as he slept.  Lindsay then took off on his horse and rode all night until daybreak, but oddly enough was captured only three miles from the scene of the crime. Lindsay was put to death for the murder.