STIRLING CASTLE . .Stirling was the home of Scottish kings. If you didn't know that fact, you certainly weren't going to be able to answer any of the other questions our guide at the Scottish castle had to ask. And, he did ask questions.

The information on the welcoming plaque described the castle best. "This volcanic rock, which may well have been fortified since prehistoric time, is at one of the most strategically significant locations in the Scottish kingdom. Throughout the Middle Ages and the period of the Renaissance, Stirling was one of the most important castles. But the core of what is now to be seen is a group of buildings that provided a setting for the royal court of Stewart Scotland at its most brilliant period in the reigns of James IV, James V, Mary Queen of Scots and James VI."

MARTIN

King James VI of Scotland became a King James I of England. He was the King James responsible for the translation of the Bible. I had no idea that Scotland had anything to do with that kind of history. The guide at the castle was so passionate about all he had to share. Dates, names, and facts (as well as a wee bit of Scottish bias) just poured from his lips. And, it wasn't a boring repetition of information. So, when he talked about a second tour of the Argyll Lodging to see an authentic representation of Renaissance Scotland, I jumped at the chance.

MARTIN