HEADS and TALES

Robert Grant factor to Lord Neil Campbell of Ardmaddie lived at Oban Seil; he was sent to Islay to collect rents on behalf of his master, and on his way was captured by a band of piratical MacLeans and taken to Duart Castle on the island of Mull, where he was held prisoner. There was no love lost between Lord Neil and the MacLeans, so as a go between, a mutual friend by the name of MacDougal of Dunollie, was asked to intercede with Maclean for the release of his factor. When MacDougal duly went to Duart he was given every hospitality as would any visitor and before the business was mentioned he was given refreshments. Afterwards MacDougal spoke of his errand and as a personal favour asked for the release of Grant. To this the fierce chieftain replied, “you may take his body, which is in the courtyard, but I will keep his head”. MacDougal beat a hasty retreat with the body, no doubt glad to get away with his own safety. The headless body was taken back to Kilbrandon, Seil and buried there..