 In 1725 the foundations were laid of a new mansion. The work was entrusted to William Adam, the architect, and father of more famous architect sons, but only the two wings were completed. For forty years there was nothing between them except perhaps the ruin of an old house in process of demolition. George Baillie died in 1738, leaving a widow and two daughters. The elder of these was called Grisell after her mother, the younger was called Rachel. Grisell became Lady Murray, a striking figure in London and Edinburgh society. Rachel married Charles, Lord Binning, eldest son of the Earl of Haddington. She kept a 'Household Book' which has come down to us as a classic of social history. Her husband George became a Member of Parliament and was one of the architects of the Treaty of Union. Lady Grisell Baillie (as she was called after her father's elevation to the peerage) is the most famous character in the whole Mellerstain story. She was beautiful and accomplished, a devoted wife and an excellent household manager.
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