regshoe

I often think that names usually go in the other direction

Yes, exactly! Perhaps in this case it's something to do with Alexander becoming more popular outside Scotland after the nineteenth century, and hence there being a bit of a break from its historical usage?

I read The Three Musketeers years ago and didn't like it much, so had been hesitating over this one, but I'm glad I did pick it up eventually. I can definitely believe the 'paid by the line' thing :D