Hello, I received a photocopy of "extracted record from the Glasgow, Lanark, Scotland Parish Register, film #1042940." This is the birth record for my ggrandfather. I have a question about early recorded births. Was it customary to have witnesses? The handwriting is difficult to read, but I will interpret as best I can: McKersie. James McKersie, (weaver or teacher-unable to read), & Margaret Alexander a (Lau or Law? cannot read): Son James bo: 15th Jany (January 1838), ? (this word illegible, but could be wit) : William Alexander, & James Alexander. Could someone who is familiar with parish records please help? What does a Lau or Law mean? There are 9 other births on this page, and they all have that notation after the mother's name. Thank you. Marcia, USA