Donald Oig "Liberator of London" England's King Calls On A Scotsman To Free London

Legend abounds in Scotland, and the story of Donald Oig who defeats an Itallian for the English in London, is a fun classic.



Now Donald Oig was often called “The King’s Man”, his loyalty to King Charles I was already proven at the Trot of Turriff. Donald had gone to London in the year 1640 of his own accord not knowing that King Charles, in desperation, was also requesting his help in that same place, and offering a purse full of gold for help with an Italian swordsman. It was during that trip that he was waylaid by a drummer on the streets of London. The servant issued his Italian master’s challenge to all within the sound of his voice to battle. It was said that none could defeat him. In fact it was reputed that he was the greatest swordsman in Europe.

Living like a prince at the expense of the town, since according to the rules of chivalry they must provide for him until someone came along that could defeat him; the people of London lived in fear of this reputed Italian wizard, whom no one seemed able to kill.

Disgusted by this braggart of Italy and his raucous drummer, Donald Oig cried with great gusto, “Hae deen wi’ yer din!” Then promptly ran the drummer through. With the crowd applauding wildly, the angry Italian swordsman challenged Donald Oig to a duel. Arrangements were made for their contest the following morning. Donald was doubly pleased when he learned that the King had sent for him to accomplish this very thing.

That night at dinner, Donald Oig made the acquaintance of the Italian’s manservant. With a little prodding, and some pleasant conversation, he learned the Italian’s secret.

In league with dark forces, the Italian was promised that to any challenger, it would appear there were two more assailants on either side of him. Even if pierced with a sword, he was told he would heal as soon as the blade was withdrawn.

Armed with knowledge and a good arm, Donald met the Italian in combat. As expected Donald was faced with what looked like three opponents. Remembering the servant’s words he gave his whole attention to the antagonist in the middle.

Spectators stood in awe, as Celt and Italian would thrust and parry with dazzling speed and agility. Then almost faster than the eye could follow, the Scotsman drove his practiced sword through the center of the brash Italian. Not yet realizing the danger the man cried out, “Remove thy sword!” But contrary to what he expected Donald Oig smugly said, “Let the spit stay with the roast!” The Italian crumpled dead to the ground.

The promised gold was duly rewarded, but the traitorous townspeople, already forgetting their debt to Donald Oig wailed, “See the Scottish beggar pocketing our English gold.”

Disgusted with the people, Donald threw the gold by handfuls into the air, and smirked at the sight. “See the English dogs gathering up the gold they could not earn for themselves…but a Scot won for them!”