Hi Paul,
Found the reference to Loch Vail in "Scotland Illustrated, in a series of views taken expressly for this work". by William Beattie M.D. (London, 1847, p.91). The author claims that the true incident took place at Rob Roys brothers home in Balquihidder. Apparantly Charles Stewart of Ardshiel was taking what amounts to a shortcut through the property, and ended up in conversation and subsequent quarrel with MacGregor. When a duel became imminent, both parties were furnished with 'an Andrea Ferrara'. When blood was drawn by the cut to the chin, the fight stopped and MacGregor stormed up the glen, and threw his broadsword into Loch Vail, nearly opposite Stronvarr House.
This is of course paraphrased text from item found in the google search.
In reviewing the text, it would seem that swords were provided to both combatants, and if the event did indeed occur, and Rob Roy threw a sword into the lake, it was not his own personal sword.
It does seem that there are numerous variations to the final contests of Rob Roy, as well as to his last days.
I hope this will at least resolve the Loch Vail sword event.
All the best,
Jim
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