Auld is New
The Auld Alliance is the special relationship that existed between Scotland and France for centuries. It began with a treaty signed in 1295 because the two kingdoms shared a hatred of England. It was in force and effect through much of the 18th Century. Philip IV (“Intra Venous”) signed for France and John Balliol, King of Scotland, signed for, well, Scotland. John was known as the Toom Tabard, the empty coat of arms, meaning an ineffective ruler. He took over when Margaret, Maid of Norway and Scottish Queen, died at age seven having never set foot in Scotland. But here’s the thing…