Walter Scott (1771—1832) was a Scottish historical novelist, poet, and playwright. Although he was an advocate and legal administrator by profession, Scott is most famous for his great literary works and activities in the Royal Highland Society. Being one of the most popular historical novels of the time, "Guy Mannering" tells the story a young boy Henry Bertram, who was kidnapped at the age of five by smugglers after witnessing the murder of a customs officer. It follows the adventures of Harry and the fate of his family in later years, as well as the struggle around the inheritance of his estate. The novel also describes the lawlessness of that time, full of smugglers, thieves, and killers.