The trial also heard the testimony from people who Andrew met and spoke to during the days before he headed off to Fort Augustus from Strathpeffer.

Reading the testimonies gives a small insight into Andrew’s personality. He seems to be full of plans and ideas, talking to everybody he meets, trying to involve his mates in his schemes.

Here’s what John Corbet, cabinet maker from Ardval, Strathpeffer had to say about his encounter with Andrew:

“I know Andrew Ballantyne. I last saw him on Friday the 7th instant, in Strathpeffer. He told me he was just going to set out for Fort Augustus, where he and a cousin of his had taken the building of an extensive feal dyke. This was about seven o’clock at night, and I remarked to Ballantyne that it was a strange hour for one to begin a journey. All which is truth.“

John Corbet 

Next to give his testimony is Alexander Fraser, son of John Fraser, crofter from Bottacks:

“I saw and conversed with Andrew Ballantyne at Arval of Strathpeffer, on Thursday 6th, instant. He told me he had been at Fort Augustus, and was going back in charge of a flock, and asked me if I would accompany him, saying I would get half a crown a day of wages. I declined the offer. All which is truth.~

​Alexander Fraser