Robert Gibb (courtier)

Traditionally, as described by Robert Lindsay of Pitscottie, the king rode to Stirling early in the morning from Falkland Palace before the household was awake.

He kept the accounts of payments to the blacksmith Thomas Sprotty, the metal worker Andrew Lorimer who made horse bits and stirrups, and for sharpening and refurbishing the king's swords and polearms called "Jedburgh staves", and for the horse and jousting armour made for the king by William Smeberd.

This identification was promoted by Walter Scott in a story which includes an old saying or proverb, first published in 1721, "Rob Gibb's contract: stark love and kindness."

[13] The idea of "Rob Gib" and firm loyalty, seems to have become an ideal in Scotland, and his name appeared with an image of clasped hands on objects such as snuff boxes.

[15] A recess in the corner of the roofless great hall at Linlithgow Palace was known as "Rob Gibb's chair", in connection with stories of the local laird and courtier.