As I described in a previous chapter on the Gordons of Birsemoir and Cluny, Alexander Gordon of Strathaven, was my 12^th^ great grandfather, and he was the 5^th^ great grandfather of John Taylor, through John's mother Philadelphia Gordon, the daughter of Governor Patrick Gordon. I will start this story with Alexander and show how he was the descendent of both English and Scottish Royalty.

Alexander Gordon, 3rd Earl of Huntly was a member of Parliament, a member of the Privy Council and a member of the Regency Council during the minority of James V of Scotland.