Talk:Robert Balfour, 4th of Balbirnie

probably not a "nobleman"

robert balfour probably should not be referred to as a "nobleman." i would assume that the designation "4th of balbirnie" refers to the "fourth laird of balbirnie" or perhaps to the "four feudal baron of balbirnie." i don't think that (in the eighteenth century) a mere "laird" or "feudal baron" would be thought of as part of the scottish "nobility." balfour was definitely a member of the scottish landed gentry, but i don't think that (during the period of his lifetime) the titles "laird" or "feudal baron" would be thought of as "noble titles." (a "lord of parliament" would be considered a member of the nobility, but i don't think that robert balfour was a "lord of parliament.") — Preceding unsigned comment added by 76.127.228.117 (talk) 20:28, 28 September 2013 (UTC)