R. C. MacLeod, who wrote in the early 20th century, considered that this prophecy seemed to have been fulfilled. At that time, the Macleod chief had no gentlemen of his clan as on his estate; also, an heir to the family—named "Ian Breac"—was killed in the First World War. R. C. MacLeod noted that the prophecy stated that a "John Breac" (Gaelic: "Iain Breac", "Iain the speckled") would restore the fortunes of the family. R. C. MacLeod stated his belief that this may still happen, when he lamented the loss of his son, stating that Iain Breac "showed that his race had not lost the loyalty and courage which were their chief claims to glory in ancient days".