The Siege of the Castle of Edinburgh, 1573

The Siege of the Castle of Edinburgh was a major event in Scottish history that took place in the late 16th century. The castle was the stronghold of the Scottish forces, who were in opposition to the English forces led by Sir William Drury. The castle was under the command of Sir William Kirkaldy, who was determined to put up a strong resistance against the invading English forces.

The siege lasted for several months, during which the Scottish forces were subjected to severe hardships and privations. Despite their valiant efforts, the castle eventually had to surrender, as it was no longer possible to resist the English assault.

Sir William Kirkaldy, who was well-known for his bravery and gallantry, was reluctant to surrender the castle to the English. He negotiated with Sir William Drury and requested a conference, during which he was advised to surrender on the condition that he and his companions would be protected from the revenge of the Scottish Regent. However, these conditions were rejected by the Regent, who insisted on capturing Kirkaldy and his companions.

Three days after the capitulation, Kirkaldy and his companions were taken prisoner, and the Regent Morton insisted that they should suffer the punishment merited by their obstinacy. The English Queen Elizabeth, who had given her word that they would be treated favorably, placed them in the power of the Regent. Sir William Drury, who was overwhelmed with shame and sorrow at such perfidy, retired from the command of Berwick.

In the end, Sir William Kirkaldy and his brother were executed on the 3rd of August 1573, along with two of their associates. The siege of the Castle of Edinburgh was a tragic event in Scottish history, marked by treachery, perfidy, and the violation of promises. It is a reminder of the brutal realities of war, and the suffering and sacrifice that it often entails.