The naming of the children 'hints' that Joseph is descended from John Irvine and Marion Lamont. It is likely that there is some connection on the basis of ages, locations and names but what is it? And why were Joseph and Mathew so named? Joseph in particular was an uncommon name at the time - only 7 children were named Joseph between 1820 and 1830 in Kilmarnock compared to 650 named James (according to Parish Registers). Joseph and Matthew are names perhaps associated with the Catholic faith - is this significant. With the lack of evidence for alternative scenarios also a factor, there is some circumstantial evidence to suggest that the following family tree may describe the life of John Irvine and his descendants. There is evidence supporting all the linkages except for those coloured green. If this theory holds water then the unknown mother has some connection with the surname Craufurd or Crawford. The investigation continues . . . We now continue with Marion Irvine’s story.