"If the wedding was wanted at Melrose-and Buccleuch, as Hereditary Bailie of the Abbey lands, had fewer objections than usual to any idea not his own-then the congregation had to come armed, that was all."
This implies that the event’s success depended heavily on the Hereditary Bailie’s somewhat flexible attitude toward plans. Despite his usual firmness, he was more agreeable than typical, but still, the congregation prepared themselves with readiness and determination.The gathering included the Scotts, their allies, the twenty courteous Frenchmen from Edinburgh, and an Italian commander with a lame leg, who kept their men at arms outside with horses, helmets tied to saddlebows. Some seats remained empty because a few people from Hawick or Bedrule had arrived too late ten days earlier, and this was not openly acknowledged, highlighting the layered social and political nuances at this gathering.