ABSTRACT
John Drummond’s thinking and actions during the years from 1700 to 1714 can only be understood in the context of what was happening in London. He had to know of and appreciate the events and struggles taking place at Court and in Parliament during Queen Anne’s reign. These shaped how he would act, even though this interaction (apart from a few visits home and to the capital) was conducted by him from Amsterdam. As is well-known, there were complications in almost every sphere of activity during these years, and the people he dealt with would experience fluctuating terms of being in and out of power. It was an ever-changing scenario. The dukes of Argyll would play a not inconsiderable role in Drummond’s life; and during the years spent in Amsterdam, Drummond enjoyed a particularly warm, personal relationship with John, the 2nd Duke.
