And in connection with Suzanne's note about The Bonny Earl of Moray - Huntly, who killed Moray was possibly the subject of the ballad Geordie (according to Child). Huntly was involved in plots for the Spanish Invasion of Scotland and engaged in open rebellion against James VI. He was imprisioned but released and reconciled to James. He later rebelled again - and was again reconciled... Charles I eventually imprisoned him in Edinburgh Castle.

Or Geordie could be about and earlier Huntly who was quite a rotten fellow (possibly setting the precedent). Huntly was imprisoned for becoming "too familiar" with the Laird of Bignet's wife. His wife, Lady Ann, went to Edinburgh to plead for his life. She was successful, but when he was freed he killed his wife.

For historical ballads you can't beat Child!