Sir Walter Scott (1771 - 1832) was a popular Scottish historical novelist and poet. Scott was the first English language author to have international popularity during his lifetime. His novels remain popular today. His most famous works include Ivanhoe, Rob Roy, The Lady of The Lake, Waverely, The Heart of Midlothian and The Bride of Lammermoor. Guy Mannering the Astrologer was published anonymously in 1815. The story is set in Galloway in southwest Scotland in the decade of 1760. Bertram, Laird of Ellangowan's son is kidnapped after witnessing the murder of a customs officer. The novel follows the struggles of the family over an inheritance. The lawlessness of the time when smugglers roamed the coast and thieves made travel on lonely roads dangerous is portrayed in the novel. Guy Mannering is a minor character is the story. He is a friend of the family who uses astrology to predict the son's future on the day of his birth.