even before roland's death, alan was active in courtly circles, perhaps serving as his father's deputy. alan's first known important attestation occurs late in december 1199, when he witnessed a royal charter at forfar. from this point in his career until 1209, alan appears to have been most often in the attendance of the scottish king, witnessing several of the latter's royal charters. alan's eminent standing in society is partly evidenced by the fact that, within these sources, his name tends to appear amongst the top four recorded names, and is usually the first name of non-comital rank. his second marriage, in about 1209, to the king's niece, margaret, eldest daughter of david, earl of huntingdon also reveals alan's significant social standing. from about 1210 to 1215, his activity in scottish affairs dwindles dramatically, whilst his activity in english affairs increases steadily.