I assumed the barony in 1295, my husband dead at Falkirk and my eldest son but seven years old.
I assumed the barony in 1295, my husband dead at Falkirk and my eldest son but seven years old. The neighbouring lords expected my collapse within the year. I outlived three of them.\n\nI write to you because I suspect — across these centuries — that women still bear the assumption of their incapacity, and still must answer it not with words but with results. So let me tell you what I learned.\n\nFirst: never raise your voice. The room that strains to hear you is the room that obeys. Second: read every account ledger yourself. Stewards cheat what they think you cannot read. Third: keep the chapel well-funded and the kitchens better. Loyalty is bought in bread and prayer, in that order.\n\nI managed the estate for forty-five years. My son, when he came to it, found a treasury full and tenants content. He thanked me publicly for nothing, as was the custom, and privately for everything, as was the truth.\n\nIf you are a woman reading this, take heart. If you are a man, remember: the most formidable steward this house ever knew never carried a sword.
Govern wisely, and let your work speak louder than your title.