Past Master

by Nigel Tranter

With the end of Elizabeth I's long reign in sight, Patrick, Master of Gray, is determined that James VI should succeed to the English throne. Nothing can be allowed to stand in his way - not even his... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 034017837X
• ISBN13: 9780340178379
• Release Date: January 1973
• Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton
• Length: 416 Pages
• Weight: 0.50 lbs.

Customer Reviews

The Final Lesson in Statecraft

The Past Master is the final book of the Master of Gray trilogy. This was a continuance of the same story of Patrick, Master of Gray and his "statecraft" in the government of Scotland. He returns from his second exile from Scotland, this time caused by his daughter Mary Gray, mistress to Ludovich "Vicky" Stewart, Duke of Lennox. Patrick works his way back into the good graces of King James VI and starts picking off his rivals for power. He starts with Lord Maitland, the Chancellor and once he is removed he keeps the chancellor's position unfilled but retains the power for himself. He manipulates one Catholic and Protestant lords and causes the fall of the Earls of Huntly, Morton, Bothwell, Gowrie and even the Lord Gray, Patrick's father himself. Mary and Vicky just want to be left alone but to live life in Methven with their son Johnnie yet Patrick and the King have there own plans. The King has Vicky marry Jean Campbell from Court against his will and it proves too much for Mary. Both are forced apart. Ultimately the death of Queen Elizabeth and King James ascent to the English throne teaches every one the ultimate lesson in Statecraft, especially the Master of Gray. This book was definitely on par with the first two books. Although it doesn't go out with a bang it keeps things moving from one plot and intrigue to the next. I enjoyed a part with Vicky and Mary going into the Highlands to stop a clash between Clan Donald and the Maclean's at sea in the Isles. I really felt for Ludovich, Duke of Lennox and his want to live a simple life with his beloved Mary and son but yet he is continually forced onto the political stage. This was a wonderful Trilogy and worthy of the Tranter name.