It is proper to state, that the divisions into which the clans are arranged on the Map, are not intended to indicate that the chiefs, or heads of the principal branches of all the clans, were the sole proprietors of the lands classed under their names. In several instances, they were only occupiers and tenants at will of the lands on which they and their forefathers lived for ages. But, while the clansmen obeyed and followed the chiefs of their family and kindred, the superiors and proprietors of their lands seldom held any authority or feudal control, except in cases where the superior and his people entertained similar political views and sentiments. The lands thus occupied by different clans and tribes, either as proprietors or tenants, are generally called their "Country" or territory; Brae Lochaber, for example, which was occupied for near five hundred years by the Macdonells of Keppoch, and their numerous descendants, is called "Keppoch's Country," although the fee-simple of the property has always been vested in the families of Gordon and Mackintosh. The Dukes of Gordon and Argyle were feudal superiors of the whole of the Camerons' Country, the former nobleman being also proprietor of part of the lands,
Nothing can be more erroneous than an opinion, often repeated, and therefore sometimes believed, that whatever side the feudal superior took in any great political question or contest, he was invariably followed by his subservient adherents. The instances to the contrary are too numerous to be mentioned at present, and are highly creditable to the spirit of independence which long distinguished the clansmen.