Donald Mcnab Scott was born in Perth, Scotland in 1817. He served his time as a blacksmith before enlisting in the Royal Engineers. Following his basic training he was posted to an R.E. company mapping Scotland and the north of England for the Ordnance Survey Department. While lodging at Candlemaker Row he became friendly with Bobby. The terrier would accompany the sergeant along George IV Bridge and go for a meal with him. Colour Sergeant Scott decided to remain in Edinburgh after his discharge from the Army. He worked at Edinburgh Castle in a civilian capacity. When the old soldier died at the Royal Infirmary in 1893 he was buried in Piershill Cemetery, Edinburgh.