He was a rough, passionate man, much addicted to swearing.

For many years he was farrier to the Eagle or Spottiswood troop of Yeomanry.

One day he went to Greenlaw to attend the funeral of his sister, intending to be home early in the afternoon.

His wife and family were surprised when he did not appear as they expected and they sat up watching for him.

About two o'clock in the morning a heavy weight was heard to fall against the door of the house, and on opening it to see what was the matter, old Keane was discovered lying in a fainting fit on the threshold.