Gordon, Francis

Biography

Third son of John, 3rd Laird of Braco. Appointed agent in Poland, serving under the ambassador, Sir Thomas Roe. Letter of appt dated 21 Sept 1625: but did not take up his duties until the retirement of his uncle. Concerned in the various trade disputes 1626, involved in Polish politics in an attempt to obtain peace between Poland and Sweden 1631. Took part in negotiations of Ladislas VII, King of Poland, for the hand of Princess Elizabeth, daughter of Elizabeth, Queen of Bohemia (sister of Charles I). Negotiations failed, Sir Francis lost his post, went bankrupt 1636: nevertheless still employed by special command of King Charles I. Failed again over another royal marriage affair - Frederick William of Prussia and his cousin Princess Louise. Power of Roman Catholic Church was proving too strong for Gordon. Had failed in two marriage negotiations, Baltic trading affairs proving increasingly difficult and chancellor of Poland caused him, as a protestant, to be "cast in a suit for 9000 Tholers." Gordon demanded recall 1642. Returned home and died Aberdeen 1643/44. Gave, "at his return to Scotland for the help of the library of the College, after 30 years peregrination, 42 fair volumes, most part physicall [medical], anno 1643".

Biography Date

d.1643/44

Biography References

Prov. Reg. Notes (Bulloch, J.M. MSS Gordoniana. Box 36; Gordon, Edward of Cairnfiel, MSS. Book of the Gordons Section X part 21; Album Amicorum fol. 13); Drummond 300; Wightman xv.

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