Skip to main content

Full text of "Ecclesiastical records : selections from the minutes of the Presbyteries of St. Andrews and Cupar , M.DC.XLI. - M.DC.XCVIII"

See other formats 


m 


J 


PRESBYTF.HY   in-     ST  ANDREWS. 

•  iturff    ut  n\i    Xiilitiui     l.tm/nc  K  Covenant  ,       I  (iJt  3 


X  (ft-   7)cv(/<*r~ 


X"/ri attires  at  the    Test    Oath.,  It? 81 . 


ECCLESIASTICAL  RECORDS. 


SELECTIONS  FROM  THE  MINUTES 

OF  THE  PRESBYTERIES 
OF 

ST.   ANDREWS  AND   CUPAR, 

M.DC.XLI.— M.DC.XCVIII. 


EDINBURGH: 

PRINTED   FOR   THE   ABBOTSFORD   CLUB. 

MD.CCC. XXXVII. 


T.  CONSTABLE,  PRINTER,  EDINBURGH. 


PRESENTED 
TO    THE    MEMBERS    OF 


BY 


GEORGE  R,  KINLOCH. 


THE 


ABBOTSFORD    CLUB, 

M.DCCC.XXXVII. 


JOHN  HOPE,  ESQUIRE. 

Right  Hon.  The  EARL  OF  ABERDEEN. 

ADAM  ANDERSON,  Esquire. 

CHARLES  BAXTER,  Esquire. 
5  ROBERT  BLACKWOOD,  Esquire. 

BINDON  BLOOD,  Esquire. 

BERIAH  BOTFIELD,  Esquire. 

Hon.  HENRY  COCKBURN,  Lord  Cockburn. 

JOHN  PAYNE  COLLIER,  Esquire. 
10  Rev.  ALEXANDER  DYCE,  B.  A. 

JOHN  BLACK  GRACIE,  Esquire. 

JAMES  IVORY,  Esquire. 

Hon.  FRANCIS  JEFFREY,  Lord  Jeffrey. 

GEORGE  RITCHIE  KINLOCH,  Esquire. 
15  WILLIAM  MACDOWALL,  Esquire. 

JAMES  MAIDMENT,  Esquire. 

Rev.  JAMES  MORTON. 

ALEXANDER  NICHOLSON,  Esquire. 

ROBERT  PITCAIRN,  Esquire. 
20  EDWARD  PIPER,  Esquire. 

ANDREW  RUTHERFURD,  Esquire. 

ANDREW  SHORTREDE,  Esquire. 

JOHN  SMITH,  Youngest,  Esquire. 

Sir  PATRICK  WALKER,  Knight. 

Crearfurer. 
25  JOHN  WHITEFOORD  MACKENZIE,  Esquire. 


WILLIAM  B.  D.  D.  TURNBULL,  Esquire. 


INTRODUCTORY    NOTICE. 


ALTHOUGH  the  local  ecclesiastical  Records  of  Scotland  afford  much 
valuable  and  interesting  information  regarding  the  early  polity  and  discip 
line  of  the  Church,  the  peculiar  and  anomalous  jurisdiction  of  its  judica 
tures,  the  moral  and  religious  state  of  the  country,  and  the  manners,  cus 
toms,  and  superstitions  of  the  people,  yet  they  have  been  either  intirely 
overlooked,  or  only  partially  examined.  As  the  earlier  Registers  of  the 
PRESBYTERIES  OF  ST.  ANDREWS  AND  CUPAR  comprise  a  mass  of  important 
and  curious  matter  relating  to  these  subjects,  I  have  been  induced  to 
select  from  them  the  following  Extracts,  as  a  contribution  to  the  Abbots- 
ford  Club. 

It  may  be  remarked,  that  many  of  the  old  Church  Registers  have  been 
either  lost  or  destroyed  ;  and  those  that  still  remain  have  been  too  long- 
allowed  to  lie  in  obscurity,  subject  to  almost  certain  destruction  from  the 
careless  manner  in  which  they  are  preserved,  being  in  many  instances 
unbound,  stained  with  damp,  torn,  or  otherwise  materially  injured.1  It  is 
hoped,  therefore,  that  the  present  volume  may  not  only  serve  as  an  epi 
tome  of  the  Registers  of  these  two  Presbyteries,  during  a  momentous 
period  of  Cllurch  history,  but  may  also  direct  the  attention  of  individuals 
to  the  general  nature  and  importance  of  our  ecclesiastical  records,  and  lead 
them  to  a  careful  examination  of  their  contents,  and  to  contribute  to  their 
preservation. 

1  It  is  certainly  matter  of  regret  that  they  should  remain  in  this  state,  and  it  would  be  a 
national  benefit  were  an  Act  parsed  for  the  transmission  of  the  more  ancient  volumes  to  some 
Public  Repository. 


x  INTRODUCTORY  NOTICE. 

The  earliest  record  of  the  PRESBYTERY  OF  ST.  ANDREWS,  now  ex 
tant,  commences  on  the  20th  October  1641,  and  terminates  on  the  12th 
November  1656.  The  previous  Registers  have  been  lost.  From  an 
inscription  on  the  volume  (now  forming  the  second  of  the  series,)  be 
ginning  in  1656,  and  ending  28th  September  1687,  it  is  called,  "  the 
"fourth  volume  of  the  Register  of  the  Presbyterie  of  St.  Andrewes."  It  is 
evident,  therefore,  that  in  1 656  three  older  volumes  were  in  existence.  One 
of  them,  termed  t\\e  first,  appears  to  have  been  recovered  by  the  Presbytery 
on  1st  March  1654,  for,  "  the  quhilk  day,  the  Clerk  did  produce  the  first 
"  volume  of  the  Presbyteries  Register,  quhilk  was  accepted  thankfullie,  and 
"  the  person  quho  refounded  the  same  promised  to  be  thankfullie  satisfied." 
But  at  the  Revolution  all  the  volumes  were  missing.  In  1 693,  however, 
the  register  (which  is  now  the  second  volume)  was  recovered  from  Mr.  Alex 
ander  Fairweather,  '  Bibliothecarius  in  the  New  College,'  who  was  some 
time  Clerk  to  the  Exercife  of  St.  Andrews  during  Episcopacy:  And  in  1 698 
the  Register  from  1641  to  1656,  was  discovered  by  Mr.  Alexander  Sheilds, 
minister  of  St.  Andrews,  "  among  the  bookes  of  Mr.  James  Wemyss,  late 
"  Princjpall  of  Leonards  Colledge,  with  which  the  Presbitrie  were  well  satis- 
"  fied,"  and  gave  Mr.  Sheilds  "  heartie  thanks  for  his  diligence  and  care  in 
"  recovering  the  said  Register."  But  the  two  earlier  volumes  appear  to 
have  been  never  recovered.  As  they  must  have  related  to  the  Episcopal 
period  from  1600  to  1638,  it  is  not  improbable  that  they  had  been  either 
secreted  or  destroyed  by  the  Episcopal  Clergy,  who,  on  their  deposition, 
generally  carried  off  the  church  registers  and  utensils. 

On  the  re-establishment  of  the  Presbyterian  religion  in  1690,  the  Pres 
byteries  of  St.  Andrews  and  Cupar,  owing  to  the  paucity  of  ordained 
ministers,  were  united  into  one  judicature,  and  remained  so  until  April 
1693,  when  they  were  disjoined,  as  there  was  then  "  a  competent  number 
"  of  ministers  to  each  of  the  two  Presbitries ;"  and  as  "  both  were  desirous 
"  to  be  disjoined  again,  and  to  act  separatelie  by  themselves."  The  first 
meeting  of  the  Presbytery  of  St.  Andrews,  as  a  separate  judicature,  was 
accordingly  held  at  St.  Andrews  on  the  18th  April  1693,  on  which  day 
the  third  volume  commences,  and  continues  till  28th  December  1698. 


INTRODUCTORY  NOTICE.  ix 

In  the  second  volume,  several  blanks  occur  after  1662,  which  appear 
to  have  been  intentionally  left  for  the  insertion  of  the  proceedings  of  the 
Diocesan  Synod,  which  were  usually  engrossed  in  the  Registers  of  the 
various  Presbyteries  within  the  Diocese.  In  other  respects  the  Registers 
of  this  Presbytery  are  in  good  preservation. 

The  Registers  of  the  PRESBYTERY  OF  CUPAR  have  not  been  so  care 
fully  preserved.  The  earliest  volume,  which  bears  the  Greek  motto, 
2w  QM,  on  the  first  page,  commences  6th  October  1646,  and  ends  20th 
September  1660  ;  all  the  previous  records  having  been  lost.  A  great 
hiatus  occurs  during  Episcopacy,  from  1662  to  1690,  and  it  does  not  ap 
pear  that  the  records  of  that  period  were  delivered  up  at  the  Revolution. 
When  this  Presbytery  was  disjoined  from  that  of  St.  Andrews  in  1693, 
a  new  Register  in  quarto  was  commenced,  which  terminates  on  the  llth 
February  1 702 ;  after  which  the  Records  are  regular  and  perfect.  The 
first  volume,  from  which  alone  extracts  are  given,  is  in  excellent  preser 
vation,  and  contains  much  valuable  and  curious  information  ;  while  the 
second  possesses  very  little  interesting  matter,  being  mostly  occupied  with 
the  details  of  settling  minifters,  and  of  censuring  church  delinquents. 

The  lithographed  fac-similes  of  the  signatures  of  those  members  of  the 
Presbytery  of  St.  Andrews,  who  subscribed  the  Solemn  League  and 
Covenant  in  1643,  or  took  the  Test  in  1681,  are  made  from  the  originals 
adhibited  to  copies  of  those  documents  inserted  in  the  Registers  at  the 
time.  The  fac-simile  of  the  town  of  Cupar  in  1642,  is  taken  from  a 
drawing  made  in  that  year  by  Mr.  James  Gordon,  minister  of  Rothiemay, 
on  his  manuscript  map  of  the  County  of  Fife,  preserved  in  the  Library  of 
the  Faculty  of  Advocates. 

G.  R.  K. 
EDINBURGH, 
1st  February,  1837. 


THE   PRESBYTERY  OF   ST.   ANDREWS. 

1641-1698. 


THE   PRESBYTERY  OF   ST.   ANDREWS. 


AT  ST.  ANDROS,  OCTOBER  20,  1641. 

Inglis  in  Forgan. — Mr.  David  Forrett1  declared,  that  yet  he  could  not 
gett  David  Inglis  broght  to  give  obedience  to  the  fentence  of  the 
Prefbyterie,  for  his  confutation  with  that  woman  fufpe6t  of  witchcraft. 
He  is  appointed  to  compeir  befor  the  Prefbyterie  the  nixt  day. 

November  17- — Hamilton,  advyfe. — Mr.  George  Hamilton2  requyred  the 
advyfe  of  the  Prefbyterie,  how  they  fould  proceid  in  thair  feffioun  with  a 
fewar  and  ane  eldar,  both  in  his  paroch,  quho,  on  the  Lords  day  in  the 
kirkyeard,  did  breake  out  in  ill  wordes,  till  they  came  to  lies  befor  the 
congregation.  The  Prefbyterie  thoght,  for  taking  away  the  fcandall,  they 
fould  confefTe  thair  fault  befor  the  congregation  on  the  Saboth,  in  thair 
owne  feates. 

November  29. — Borthwick  to  attend  with  the  Comiffioners. — The  quhilk  day 
the  Prefbyterie  mett  occafionallie,  being  advertifed  by  the  Moderatour. 
Their  wer  produced  by  the  Moderatour  two  letters  direft  to  the  Prefby 
terie,  one  fubfcryved  by  the  whole  Commiffioners  appointed  by  our  Par- 

1  Minister  at  Forgan  ;  transported  to  Kilconquhar  27th  May,  \  646. 

2  Minister  at  Newburn  ;  translated  to  Pittenweeme  in  February  1650;  and  deposed  at  the 
restoration  of  Episcopacy. 


4  THK  PRESBYTERY  Nov.  1641. 

liament,  for  attending  the  Parliament  of  England,  and  another  letter 
from  the  Comiffion  of  the  General!  Aflemblie,  both  of  them  earneillie 
intreatinjr  the  Prelbyterie  that  they  wold  appoint  ther  brother  Mr. 
Eleazor  Borthwick,  Minifter  at  Leuchars,  to  goe  to  England  with  the 
t"mrl;ii<l  Comiffionere,  for  difchargeing  to  them  and  ther  attendants  all 
miniiteriall  duties,  fhewing  feverall  weghtie  reafons  therfor.  Compeared 
lykewayes  diverfe  gentlemen  from  the  paroch  of  Leuchars,  earneftlie  in- 
treating  ther  cafe  might  be  considered,  feeing  they  have  bein  deftitute 
of  a  relident  minifter,  for  the  mod  part  thefe  fome  yeirs  paft,  and  fo  that 
they  wold  not  appoint  ther  Minifter  to  leave  them  now.  The  laid  Mr. 
Eleazor  (hew  feverall  realbns,  quhairfor  it  was  not  expedient  that  burden 
fould  be  laid  vpon  him.  All  quhilk  reafons,  on  all  partes,  being  feriouflie 
confiddered,  the  Prefbyterie  thoght  the  requeit  of  the  Comiffioners 
indeclyneable,  and  thairfor  appoints  the  laid  Mr.  Eleazor  to  attend  that 
charge. 

Januar  5,  1642. — Reli£t  of  John  Treivman. — The  Prelbyterie  received  a 
fupplication  from  the  reli&  of  John  Trewman,  cruellie  execute  by  the 
Depute  of  Ireland,  for  avowing  our  caufe  and  Covenant,  and  his  wife  and 
fyve  children  fpoyled  of  all  ther  meanes  at  the  Deputes  direction,  ear 
neftlie  befeeching  them  to  confidder  her  cafe,  and  to  let  her  and  her 
children  be  fupplied  out  of  the  chriftian  benevolence  of  ther  parochiners. 
It  was  appointed,  that  her  cafe  fould  be  recommended  by  evrie  Minifter 
to  ther  feverall  congregations  the  nixt  Saboth,  and  the  Sabboth  therafter 
appointed  for  collecting  quhat  they  wold  beftow  for  her  releif,  and  the 
fame  to  be  broght  in  to  the  Prefbyterie. 

Februar  2. — Lady  Fainton. — Mr.  Robert  Blair1  declared,  that  he  cold 
nocht  have  occafion  to  goe  to  my  Lady  Fainton  throgh  the  intem 
perance  of  the  weather.  The  Moderatour  declared,  he  had  bein  at  her, 
and  dealt  with  her,  bot  fand  her  rather  more  obftinate  than  any  other 
change.  Mr.  Samuell  Rutherford  and  Mr.  James  Bruce2  appointed  to 
deall  with  her,  and  report  ther  diligence  the  nixt  day. 

Februar  \  6. — Lady  Fainton. — Thefe  appointed  to  deale  with  my  Lady 

1  Minister  at  St.  Andrews.  *  Minister  at  Kingsbarns. 


FEB.  1642.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  5 

Fainton,  declared  they  had  bein  at  her,  and  reafoned  with  her,  and  in  rea- 
foning  broght  her  to  diverfe  abfurdities,  bot,  for  any  thing  they  could  fie, 
faw  fmall  or  no  hopes  of  change,  or  that  by  fuch  dealing  fhe  fhuld  be 
broght  to  quyte  her  errours. 

Beggars  children. — Mr.  Robert  Traill  and  Mr.  David  Monro1  requyred 
the  judgment  of  the  Prefbyterie,  That  quhairas  beggars  coming  to  ther 
paroches,  and  bringing  foorth  children  thair,  and  defires  to  have  ther 
children  baptized  by  them ;  quho,  being  afked  a  warrand  that  they  ar  ma- 
ried,  they  can  produce  none  bot  ther  owne  word,  and,  being  tryed  in  ther 
knowledge  of  the  grounds  of  religion,  they  fand  them  altogether  ignorant, 
not  having  the  verie  letter  of  the  Beleife, — If  they  fall  baptize  thefe  children 
or  not  ?  The  Prefbyterie  advyfed  them  not  to  baptize  them. 

Rekife  ofthofe  chafed  out  of  Ireland. — The  quhilk  day  was  produced  be- 
for  the  Prefbyterie  ane  Aft  given  out  by  the  Lords  of  Counfell,  requyre- 
ing  and  defireing  all  Prefbyteries,  Minifters,  and  Elders  within  this  king- 
dome,  to  deale  with  ther  feverall  paroches,  to  contribute  for  the  help  of 
thefe  quho  are  chafed  out  of  Ireland,  and  robbed  of  all  ther  goods  by  the 
crueltie  of  the  Rebells ;  quhilk  was  aggried  vnto,  and  all  convenient  dili 
gence  appointed  to  be  vfed  for  that  effe6t. 

Februar  23. — Lawmonth  chafed  by  RebeUs. — Compeired  John  Lawmonth,2 
fonne  to  vmquhile  Mr.  Allane  Lawmonth,  fometyme  minifter  at  Scoonie, 
fhewing  to  the  brethren  how  he  was  chafed  but  of  Ireland  by  the  crueltie 
of  the  Rebells,  hardlie  efcaping  with  his  life,  and  is  deftitute  of  any  meanes 
for  mantaineing  him,  or  his  wife  and  children.  The  Prefbyterie  appointed 
to  give  him  40  ft>.  of  that  quhilk  remaines  of  the  laft  colle6tion  for  the 
relift  of  Johne  Trewman ;  and,  quhen  the  generall  colleftion  is  gathered, 
that  he  be  recomended  to  the  diftributors  thairof. 

March  23. — Admiffion  of  Bennett  to  Kylrenie. — The  Prefbyterie  mett  at 
Kylrinnie  for  admiffion  of  Mr.  Robert  Bennett,  quhair  the  Moderator  did 
preach,  Is.  6.  9. 

Inglis  referred  to  ther  Sefjion. — David  Inglis  being  called,  compeired, 
and  acknowledged  befor  the  Prefbyterie,  that  quhat  he  did  in  going  to  that 
woman  was  out  of  ignorance,  not  thinking  it  to  be  fuch  a  fault  as  now  he 

1  Ministers  at  Ely  and  Kilconquhar.         "  He  had  been  Minister  at  Temple- Patrick  in  Ireland. 


6  THE  PRESBYTERY  MARCH  1642. 

faw  it  to  be,  and  now  referred  himielfe  to  the  Prefbyterie  for  his  cenfure. 
They  referred  him  to  ther  Seflion. 

Woman  fyled  in  Abercrumbie  Paroch. — Mr.  Robert  Wilkie1  declared, 
that  they  had  already  wared,  out  of  the  poores  boxe,  fiftie  merks  upon 
that  poore  woman  and  her  children  in  ther  paroch,  fyled  by  her  hufband 
with  the  French  poxe,2  but  fhe  is  no  better,  becaufe  they  can  have  none 
to  waite  upon  her ;  and  that  now  they  are  dealeing  with  a  woman  in  Perth, 
quho  hes  vndertaken  to  cure  them  in  a  fhort  tyme,  and  to  find  caution 
Ib  to  doe,  bot  will  have  ane  hundreth  merks  in  hand,  quhilk  they  are  not 
able  to  give ;  and  therfor  defired  the  Prefbyterie  to  find  fome  courfe  for 
the  fame,  how  it  may  be  done,  that  the  poore  woman  and  children  be  not 
loft.  Becaufe  it  behooved  to  be  prelentlie  advanced,  the  Prefbyterie  de- 
fired  thefe  of  Abercrumbie  to  find  fome  way  for  that,  and  ordained  everie 
paroch  to  pay  fo  much,  as  they  pay  to  the  burfare  of  Theologie,  for  ther 
releife. 

Apryle  21. — Sir  Johne  Scotts  Carte. — Anent  the  reference  to  the  feverall 
Prefbyteries  concerning  Sir  Johne  Scotts  Geographic  Cart,  all  exhorted 
to  vfe  diligence  therein.3 

May  4. — Carte. — To  the  end  greater  diligence  may  be  vfed  in  drawing 
vp  the  bounds  of  this  Prefbyterie  for  Sir  Johne  Scotts  Carte,  the  Prefby- 
terio  have  divyded  the  fame  in  tliofe  feverall  quarters  :  Firfl,  The  paro- 

1  Minister  at  Abercrombie. 

8  This  was,  perhaps,  a  disease  which,  in  Scotland,  is  called  Sivvens,  and  is  viewed  as  of 
the  venereal  kind.  It  was  so  loathsome,  and  supposed  to  be  so  contagious,  that  not  many  years 
ago,  some  infected  persons  were  publicly  denounced  from  the  pulpit  of  a  parish  in  the  north, 
and  all  intercourse  with  them  forbidden. 

3  The  publication  of  the  large  Atlas  of  Scotland,  by  Bleau  at  Amsterdam,  in  1655,  was  an 
undertaking  originally  commenced  by  Timothy  Pont,  and  carried  on  by  Sir  Robert  Gordon  of 
Straloch,  and  his  son  Mr.  James  Gordon,  minister  at  Rothiemay,  at  the  expense,  it  is  said,  of 
Sir  John  Scot  of  Scotstarvet,  Director  of  the  Chancery.  Sir  John  procured  an  order  of  the 
Generall  Assembly,  directing  such  ministers  as  were  desired  by  the  persons  employed  in 
making  the  surveys,  to  aid  them  in  their  accounts  of  the  respective  shires.  The  original  map 
of  Fife,  with  the  Friths  of  Forth  and  Tay,  drawn  "  by  James  Gordon,  fil.  R.  G.  de  Straloch, 
1642,"  is  preserved  in  the  Advocates  Library,  Edinburgh.  It  is  possessed  of  additional  interest, 
as  the  very  neat  and  accurate  plans  of  the  towns  of  St.  Andrews  and  Cupar  drawn  in  the  cor 
ners,  were  not  engraved  along  with  the  reduced  copy  of  the  map  for  Bleau's  Atlas. 


MAY  1642.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  7 

chines  of  Ferrie,  Forgan,  and  Leuchars,  and  for  drawing  vp  the  bounds  of 
thefe,  did  appoint  Scottfcraig,  Naughton,  and  Pitlethie  ;  fecound,  St. 
Andrewes,  Dininnow,  Kembok,  St.  Leonards,  for  thefe,  Kembok,  Kinkell, 
Piterthie ;  third,  The  whole  coaft  fyde,  and  for  them,  Barnes,  Balfour, 
Randerfton,  Mr.  Robert  Lamie,  Lundie,  Ardrofie,  Kincraig :  and  thefe 
appointed  to  vfe  diligence  heirin. 

Salt  pannes  andjalmonfijhing. — Thefe  quho  have  fait  pannes  orfalmond 
fifhing  in  ther  congregations,  are  appointed  to  vfe  all  meanes  with  them, 
quhairby  they  may  be  keeped  from  breaking  the  Lords  day  quho  worke 
therin. 

The  Prelbyterie,  being  informed,  that  the  greateft  part  of  the  Comif- 
fioners  to  the  parliament  of  England  are  to  come  home,  and  fearing  leaft 
ther  brother  Mr.  Eleazar  Borthwicke  be  folicited  to  flay,  have  appointed 
a  letter  to  be  written  to  him,  defyring  him  to  returne  with  the  firft,  for 
diverfe  weightie  reafons. 

June  8. — Abufe  at  Penny  Bry dells. — The  quhilk  day  the  Prefbyterie  take- 
ing  to  ther  confederation,  and  being  informed  of  the  great  abufe  that  is  in 
many  parts  of  this  Prelbyterie  at  Penny  Brydells,  It  is  ordained,  that  all 
the  minifters  within  the  bounds  of  this  Prefbyterie  make  intimation  to 
all  pairties  quho  are  to  be  maried,  that  they  neither  exceid  in  number 
nor  price,  the  ordinance  of  the  Juflice  of  peace,  and  that  he  take  the 
parties  enaded  to  give  obedience  therto,  vnder  paine  of  lofeing  ther 
penaltie. 

Thefe  quho  were  appointed  to  view  the  bounds  of  this  Prelbyterie,  for 
Sir  John  Scotts  Carte,  ar  appointed  to  vfe  diligence  therin. 

June  22. — Groffe  faults. — It  was  regrated  by  diverfe  brethren,  that  fome 
groffe  faults,  fuch  as  ftrikeing,  and  grofle  drunkards,  did  efcape  without 
cenfure,  for  want  of  a  generall  ordour  for  all  of  that  kynd ;  quhilk  is  re 
ferred  to  the  nixt  day. 

July  20. — James  Lennox,  Thomas  Lennox,  and  Johne  Wanne,  falmond 
fifhers  in  the  paroch  of  Leuchars,  enaded,  with  ther  owne  confent,  never 
to  fhutt  a  nett  on  the  Sabboth,  vnder  the  paine  of  twentie  punds,  toties 
quoties. 

Januar  18,  1643. — Norie. — Mr.  Robert  Norie,  Profefibr  of  Humanitie 


8  THE  PRESBYTERY  JAN.  1643. 

in  St.  Leonards  College,  difcharged  to  preach  any  in  thefc  bounds,  till  he 
produce  befor  the  Prelbyterie  his  teflimoniall  of  the  paffeing  of  his  tryalls, 
which  he  is  appointed  to  doe  the  firft  day  of  meeting  by  the  morne. 

Januar  26. — Norie. — Compeired  Mr.  Robert  Norie,  and  declared,  that 
the  reafon  of  his  not  comeing  to  the  Prelbyterie,  and  Ihewing  his  teftimo- 
niall,  did  not  proceid  from  any  contempt,  bot  becaufe  at  his  entrie  ther  he 
was  abfolutlie  difcharged  by  his  patron  to  preach  any,  nor  was  he  certaine 
of  his  refidence  in  that  place ;  bot  at  the  removall  of  Mr.  Williame  Bruce, 
quho  was  a  helper  with  the  Principall,  he  preached  fometymes  at  the  Prin- 
cipalls  defire ;  bot  now  is  willing  to  produce  the  fame,  and  did  fo.  The 
faid  Mr.  Robert  being  pofed  for  vttering  fomethings  in  a  iermon  ther, 
feeming  to  refleft  vpon  the  proceidings  for  the  publicke  caufe,  which  was 
judged  fo  much  the  more  dangerous,  as  being  delyvered  to  fuch  a  audito- 
rie,  as  namelie,  "  That  we  ought  not  to  fpeak  of  God  bot  to  God,  nor  of 
Kings  bot  for  Kings,  in  prayer ;  bot  fuch  is  the  corruption  of  men,  that 
Kings,  for  the  mod  part,  have  moe  critickes  then  good  fubje&s,  that  takes 
vpon  them  to  cenfure  not  only  ther  publicke  a&ions,  bot  even  ther  private 
and  domeflticke  affaires,  yea  ther  verie  thoughts  and  intentions."  The 
firft  part  quhairof,  to  thefe  wordes,  "  who  takes  vpon  them  to  cenfure,"  etc., 
lie  acknowledged  he  fpake.  The  Preflbyterie  having  enquyred  quhat  his 
text  was,  and  finding  no  coherence  at  all  betuixt  this  Ipeach  of  his  and 
any  purpofe  in  the  wordes,  they  thoght  it  feemed  they  were  fpoken  out  of 
ane  evill  mynd  and  intention,  and  therfor  ordained  Mr.  Samuell  Ruther- 
fuird  and  Mr.  James  Wood1  to  confer  with  him  privatelie,  and  to  try  his 
mynd,  and  report  to  the  Prelbyterie  the  nixt  day,  and  in  the  meanetyme 
difcharges  him  of  preaching  till  that  be  cleired. 

Feberwar. — Norie. — Thefe  appointed  to  fpeake  with  Mr.  Robert  Norie 
declared,  that  he  refufes  to  acknowledge  the  wordes  he  fpake  to  be  fcan- 
dalous,  feeing  he  fpake  of  no  particular,  only  he  is  forie  that  the  Prelby 
terie  fould  [have]  taken  offence  at  them ;  quhilk  the  Prelbyterie  judged 
not  fatiffa&orie,  and  fo  ordaines  thame,  with  Mr.  Robert  Blair,  yet  to  deale 
farther  with  him. 

1  Professor  of  theology  in  the  University  of  St.  Andrews. 


MARCH  1643.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  9 

March  15. — AEt  for  publick  and  commoun  faults  revived. — The  Prefbyterie 
feriouflie  considering  the  great  abounding  of  the  fcandalous  finnes  of 
drunkennes,  curfeing  and  fwearing,  notwithstanding  of  the  A6t  made  heir- 
tofoir  againft  them,  of  the  deatt  March  24,  1641,  and  ratefied  by  the  Pro- 
vinciall  Affemblie  nixt  following,  doe  appoint  and  ordaine  that  the  foirfaid 
A6t  be  revived,  and  intimate  in  the  feverall  kirkes  within  the  bounds  of 
this  Prefbyterie,  and  that  brethren,  at  the  intimation  therof,  make  choife 
of  fuch  texts  of  Scripture  as  ar  fitteft  to  worke  in  the  heartes  of  people  a 
deteftation  of  the  foirfaid  finnes ;  And  lykewayes,  the  Prefbyterie  ordaines 
that  the  feverall  Seffions  within  ther  bounds  be  carefull  to  fie  the  foirfaid 
finnes  dewlie  cenfured ;  viz.  for  the  finne  of  drunkennes,  that  thofe  quho 
heirtofoir  have  beene  knowen  to  be  fcandalous  becaufe  of  it,  fall,  for  the 
verie  firfl  fault,  declare  ther  repentance  befor  the  Congregation ;  and 
thefe  quho  have  not  been  remarked  to  have  been  fcandalous  of  befor  fall, 
for  the  firft  fault,  declare  ther  repentance  befor  the  Seffion,  and  for  the 
fecond  befor  the  Congregation ;  and  if  any,  after  the  fecond  or  thrid  cen- 
fure,  fall  continue  in  this  grofTelie  fcandalous  finne,  that  they  be  debarred 
from  the  Sacrament  of  the  Lords  Supper,  ay  and  while  they  give  evident 
fignes  of  ther  repentance  and  reformation.     And  for  the  other  finne  of 
curfeing  and  fwearing,  the  Prefbyterie  ordaines  that  everie  minifler  within 
this  bounds  be  exa&lie  carefull  for  the  reprefleing  and  cenfuring  therof,  be 
takeing  fuch  courfe  with  advyfe  of  the  Seffion  as  falbe  found  fitteft  for  the 
fame,  not  only  by  enjoyneing  vnto  thofe  quho,  after  the  firft  and  fecond 
admonitions,  falbe  found  to  goe  on  in  the  finne,  that  they  declare  ther 
publicke  repentance  in  the  face  of  the  Congregation,  but  alfo  that  fome 
pecuniall  mu!6t  be  infli&ed,  according  to  the  qualitie  of  the  perfon.     And 
lykewayes,  the  lyke  cenfure  for  thefe  quho  abfent  themfelves  from  the  ap 
pointed  dyetts  of  catechifeing  twyfe  in  end,  without  fome  relevant  excufe. 
And  that  all  elders  be  advertifed  to  deprehend  fuch  as  they  fall  find  guiltie 
of  flyteing,  raileing,  mifcalling  any  of  ther  neighbours,  althogh  ther  be  no 
plaint  of  partie,  and  ordaines  that  fuch  fall  fatiffie  as  if  the  partie  did  com- 
plaine :   As  alfo,  that  they  be  faithful  dilators  of  thefe  quho,  without  rele 
vant  excufe,  abfent  themfelves  from  publicke  worfhip  on  the  Lords  day,  af- 
well  of  thefe  quho  profane  the  fame  by  workeing. 

B 


10  THE  PRESBYTERY  MARCH  1643. 

Faults  publicke  thogh  betweene  Man  and  Wife,  to  be  publicklie  cenfured. — 
Anent  the  queftion  proponed  by  Mr.  Colen  Adams l  concerning  a  fcan- 
dalous  diflbrder  within  his  charge,  betwixt  a  man  and  his  wife,  quho  were 
outragiouflie  blafpheming  and  curfeing  in  fuch  fort  that  the  neighbours 
were  conveening  about  the  doores,  he  himfelfe  being  eare  and  eye  witnes 
of  this  great  diflbrder ;  quho  having  dilated  the  fame  to  the  Seflion,  and 
one  of  parties  compeired  before  them,  and  convi&ed  of  the  abufe,  faid 
mifcariage,  and  fentenced  :  Yet  one  member  of  the  Seflion  did,  after  the 
fentence,  oppofe  the  cenfure,  alledging,  that  none  muft  meddle  betueene 
man  and  wife.  His  queftion  was,  what  ought  to  be  done  in  this  cafe  ? 
The  anfwer  of  the  Prefbyterie  is,  That  it  is  out  of  all  queftion,  that  the 
parties  dilated,  thogh  man  and  wife,  yet  ought  to  be  cenfured  publiklie 
feeing  it  brake  out  in  fo  publicke  a  way.  As  alfo,  that  quhofoever  op- 
pofed,  after  the  fentence  ought  to  be  fummoned  befor  the  Prefbyterie ; 
bot  the  latter  part  heirof  is  delayed  by  the  requeift  of  the  faid  Mr.  Colen 
made  to  the  Prefbyterie. 

Sandielands. — Tliefe  quho  were  appointed  to  try  of  David  Sandelands, 
whither  or  not,  quhen  he  did  cover  his  head  in  the  kirk  of  Pittenweeme, 
at  the  reiding  of  the  Warning  and  Declaration,  quhen  all  others  were  dif- 
covered,  was  done  by  him  out  of  contempt  or  not,  declares,  that  his  an- 
1'wer  was,  That  he  did  it  not  out  of  contempt.  The  Prefbyterie  thoght 
that  at  leaft  he  fould  declare  that  befor  them,  and  appointed  them  yet 
to  fpeake  to  him  for  that  effe&. 

Marche  22. — Salt  Pannes. — Anent  the  reference  made  the  laft  day  con 
cerning  the  fait  pannes,  Mr.  Arthur  Myrton2  declared  that  the  greeves3 
were  cited  to  be  heir.  The  greeve  of  Barnes  pans  fliew  that  his  pannes 
refts  from  fixe  on  the  Sabboth  morning  till  fixe  on  Monday  morning. 
The  Prefbyterie  defired  he  might  ftryve  to  keepe  the  whole  Sabboth  more- 
pun&uallie.  Lykewayes,  Mr.  John  Melvill4  declared  that  the  pannes  in 
Pittenweeme  doe  reft  all  the  Sabboth. 

1  Minister  of  Anstnither-Easter. 

*  Mr.  Arthur  Myrton  or  Morton  was  minister  of  Crail.  He  wrote  a  Treatise  called  the 
Touchstone  of  Conversion,  12rao.  Lond.  1642.  3  Overseers. 

4  Minister  of  Pittenweem  ;  died  before  8  August  1649. 


APRIL  1643.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  n 

Marche  29. — Recomendaiioun  from  the  Lords  of  Counfell. This  day  there 

was  a  letter  prefented  to  the  Prefbyterie  direft  from  the  Lords  of  his 
Majefties  Privie  Counfell,  to  Sir  Thomas  Myrton  of  Cambo,  one  of  there 
number,  defyreing  him  to  requyre  there  concurrence  and  affiftance  for 
dealing  with  fuch  within  the  bounds  of  this  Prefbyterie  quho  are  able  to 
advance  any  money  for  a  tyme,  for  the  fupplie  of  the  armie  fent  out  heir 
to  Ireland,  for  the  fuppreffing  of  the  Irifti  rebells,  till  the  Parliament  of 
England,  quho  are  obleifhed  to  mantaiiie  them,  can  have  tyme  to  furnifh 
them ;  which  money  the  faid  Parliament  of  England  obleifhes  themfelves 
fhortlie  to  repay.  The  Prefbyterie  does  nominate  the  Laird  of  Scottis- 
craig,  Colonell  Lumifdell,  and  Mr.  Robert  Blair  for  that  effed,  and  defires 
them  to  vfe  all  expedition  heirin,  and  they  to  joyne  to  themfelves  any 
other  minifter  quhom  they  know  to  be  of  greateft  credite  with  the  per- 
fons  with  quhom  they  are  to  deale. 

Apryle  19. — This  day  the  Moderator,  in  name  of  the  Minifters  of  the 
Prefbyterie,  did,  at  there  command  and  direction,  fubfcryve  the  band  for 
the  lone  for  the  releife  of  Ireland,  for  the  fowme  of  fyve  hundreth  pounds 
fterling,  to  be  advanced  by  them  with  all  poffible  diligence. 

Apryle  26. — Ad  for  Penny  Bry dells,  Baptifmes,  and  Contraties. — The 
Prefbyterie  perceiving  the  great  abufe  that  ftill  is  among  the  mofl  part  of 
the  comons,  by  gathering  of  multitudes  to  penny  brydells,  notwithftand- 
ing  of  the  feverall  a6tes  made  againft  the  fame,  both  by  Juflice  of  Peace 
and  Prefbyterie,  it  is  appointed  that  minifters  falbe  peremptor  in  profe- 
cuteing  the  tenour  of  the  a6t  of  the  Juflice  of  Peace,  and  that  at  the  con 
tracting  they  fall  take  the  parties  ena6bed  in  the  Seffion  bookes,  that  they 
fall  not  excel d  the  number  defigned  ther,  vnder  the  paine  of  lofeing  ther 
penaltie.  And  becaufe  of  the  great  abufe  that  is  lykewayes  among  them 
by  conveening  multitudes  at  baptifmes  and  contra&s,  the  minifters  and 
feffions  are  appointed  to  take  ftri6t  order  for  reftraineing  thefe  abufes, 
that  in  number  they  exceid  not  fixe  or  feven.  As  alfo  ordaines  that  the 
hoftlers  quho  mak  fuch  feifts  falbe  cenfured  by  the  feffions.  And  the 
Prefbyterie  to  crave  particular  account  of  minifters  and  feffions  ther 
diligence  heirin,  that  if  they  be  found  remifTe,  they  may  be  cenfured  ac- 


12  THE  PRESBYTERY  JULY  1643 

cordinglie,  and  ordaines  this  aft  to  be  intimate  in  everie  pulpitt  of  this 
Prelbyterie  the  nixt  Lords  day  fave  one. 

May  3. —  Vniverfitie  tofubfcryve  the  Covenant. — All  the  members  within 
the  Vniverfitie,  mafters  and  (Indents,  are  appointed  to  fubfcryve  the 
Covenant  againe,  and  Mr.  Samuell  Rutherfuird,  Re&or,  is  appointed,  befor 
the  fubfcription  therof,  to  have  fome  explication  of  quhat  points  in  it 
may  be  difficle  to  thefe  of  younger  yeirs  and  meaner  capacities. 

May  24. — Law  divorced. — The  Prelbyterie  declares  that  Jonat  Law, 
divorced  from  Thomas  Murray,  befor  the  Comilfers  of  Edinburgh,  may 
marie  another  man. 

July  12. — Sandielands. — Compeired  befor  the  Prelbyterie  Sir  James 
Sandielands  younger  of  St.  Monnance,  and  is  defired  to  declare  whither 
or  not  he  adheres  to  the  Crofle  Petition ;  who  defired  that  fome  might 
fpeake  to  him  privatelie  the  beginning  of  the  nixt  weeke,  at  which  tyme 
he  fall  give  fatiffa&ion.  The  Prelbyterie  have  appointed  the  Moderator, 
Mr.  David  Monro,  Mr.  Johne  Melvill,  Mr.  Robert  Traill,  the  Lairds  of 
Moncreiff  and  Ardrofle,  James  Airth  in  Pittenweeme,  to  meitt  ther  and 
heare  his  declaration,  that  if  he  palfes  from  it  he  fall  come  befor  the  Pref 
byterie  and  declare  the  fame,  and  if  he  adheres  to  it  that  then  he  falbe 
fummoned  to  compeer  befor  the  Prelbyterie. 

Mr.  Colein  Adams,  James  Bruce,  Robert  Traill,  James  Wood,  and 
Robert  Blair  appointed  to  goe  to  Craill  on  Thurefday,  and  fpeake  fome 
witches  apprehended  ther. 

July  26. — Sandielands. — Thefe  quho  were  appointed  to  fpeake  to  Sir 
James  Sandielands,  declared  they  had  not  received  fatiffa&ion  concerning 
his  pafleing  from  the  Crofle  Petition ;  quho  being  called,  compeired  not. 
The  Prelbyterie  have  appointed  him  to  be  fummond  to  compeir  befor  the 
approaching  Generall  Alfemblie. 

Netts Jetting  in  the  Lords  Day. — The  Prelbyterie  appoints  ther  Coinif- 
fionere  to  the  Generall  Aflemblie  to  crave  ther  advyce  concerning  the  fet- 
t ing  of  netts  for  herring  vpon  the  Lords  Day. 

Comiffioners  to  be  payed. — The  Prelbyterie  have  appointed,  that  hence- 
foorth  the  Comiflioners  to  the  Generall  Aflemblie  falbe  payed  befor  the 
Aflemblie  of  ther  charges  by  the  Minifters  of  the  Prelbyterie,  till  another 


AUG.  1643.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  13 

courfe  be  found,  and  appoints  the  Moderator  to  borrow  ane  hundreth 
pounds  for  this  tyme. 

Augujl. — Delay  of  burning  witches. — The  Prefbyterie  have  appointed 
Mr.  George  Dewar,1  Mr.  Robert  Wilkie,  and  Mr.  Robert  Bennett,  to 
deale  with  the  Judges  and  Bailleis  of  Anftruther,  that  they  may  delay  the 
execution  of  fome  witches  they  have  in  hands,  till  the  Prefbyterie  appoint 
fome  to  fpeake  with  them. 

Augujl  16. — It  is  thoght  fitting,  that  minifters  within  this  Prefbyterie, 
doe  advertife  the  Prefbyterie  befor  any  witches  with  them  be  put  to  exe 
cution. 

Mr.  David  Monro,  the  Moderator,  Mr.  James  Wood,  Mr.  Robert 
Wilkie,  to  goe  to  Anftruther- Wefter,  to  fie  the  execution  of  fome  witches 
ther ;  and  that  they  goe  to  Anftruther-Eafter  and  Craill,  to  fpeake  with 
fome  quho  are  apprehended  for  witches. 

Monuments  of  Juperjiition. — The  Prefbyterie  being  informed,  that  ther 
are  fome  monuments  of  fuperftition  vpon  the  houfe  of  Pitcullo,  in  the 
paroch  of  Leuchars,  have  appointed  Mr.  Johne  Barron,2  and  Mr.  David 
Forrett,  to  goe  to  the  faid  houfe,  and  take  notice  quhat  monuments  of 
that  kynd  are  thervpon,  and  report  to  the  Prefbyterie  the  nixt  day. 

Augu/i  23. — The  Moderator,  Mr.  James  Bruce,3  and  Mr.  James  Wood, 
are  appointed  to  fpeake  to  thefe  quho  are  apprehended  for  witches  in  St. 
Andros ;  and  to  attend  the  execution  of  two  witches  vpon  Fryday  nixt. 

Millars. — The  millars  of  Peikie,  Parke,  Kenlie,  and  Kingfbarne  mylnes, 
appointed  to  be  fummoned  to  compeir  befor  the  Prefbyterie  the  nixt  day, 
for  the  breake  of  the  Lords  day,  by  making  ther  mylnes  to  goe  vpon  it. 

Obedience  to  the  a6t  of  SeJJion. — A  widow  man  in  the  Paroch  of  Dinninow, 
quho  hes  a  woman  living  in  the  houfe  with  him,  with  quhom  he  is  flandered 
for  fornication,  is  appointed  to  obey  the  a6t  of  the  Seffion  in  putting  her 
out  of  his  houfe,  otherwayes  to  fummond  him  to  compeir  befor  the  Prefby 
terie. 

1  Minister  of  A nstruther- Wester  ;  deposed  21  Nov.  1 644,  for  immorality  and  malignancy. 

2  Minister  of  Kemback  ;  he  was  at  the  same  time  second  master,  and  afterwards  Provest  of 
the  Old  College  of  St.  Andrews. 

3  Minister  of  Kingsbarns. 


14  THE  PRESBYTERY  SEPT.  1643, 

Awjufl  30. — Millars. — The  millars  of  Peikie,  Parke,  Kenlie,  and  Kings- 
barno  mylnes,  compeired,  acknowledged  ther  breake  of  the  Lords  day ; 
the  Prefbyterie  referres  ther  cenfure  to  the  leverall  kirk  feflions  quher 
they  dwell. 

Superjlitious  monuments. — Mr.  David  Forrett  fhew  that  he  and  Mr. 
Johne  Ban-on  wer  at  the  houfe  of  Pitcullo,  and  declares  ther  are  vpon  the 
frontifpeece  of  the  houfe  fome  monuments  of  fuperftition.  The  Prefby- 
terie  appoints  a  letter  to  be  writen  to  the  Lord  Burghley,  intreating  him 
to  give  order  for  demolifhing  all  monuments  of  that  kynd. 

Advyce. — Mr.  Colein  Adams,  Mr.  Robert  Traill,  and  the  Moderator, 
appointed  to  goe  to  Anftruther-Wefter,  to  conferre  with  fome  quho  are 
apprehended  for  witches  ther ;  and  to  give  ther  advyce  to  the  Judges  if 
the  dilationes  againft  Ifobell  Dairfie  be  fufficient  for  apprehending  and 
trying  of  her. 

Mr.  David  Forrett,  Mr.  James  Wood,  and  Mr.  Robert  Traill,  appointed 
to  fpeake  to  fome  laitelie  apprehended  in  St.  Andros,  to  fie  if  they  can 
bring  them  to  any  confeffion. 

September  6. — Advyce — Mr.  Robert  Blair,  Mr.  Robert  Traill,  Mr.  James 
Wood,  and  the  Laird  of  Cambo,  appointed  to  meitt  at  Craill  and  give 
ther  advyce,  whither  the  preemptions  and  dilations  againft  two  in  that 
towne  be  fufficient  for  apprehending  and  tryall. 

Gudlad  in  St.  Andros. — One  in  St.  Andros  quho  rode  vpon  the  Lords 
day  to  Burghley,  under  pretence  of  going  to  a  Communion,  bot  did  it  in- 
deid  to  deale  with  my  Lord  Burghley,  for  interpofing  his  moyen  for  re- 
leafing  Margaret  Balfour,  now  apprehended  to  be  tryed  for  a  witch,  is 
appointed  to  fatiffie  as  a  breaker  of  the  Lords  day ;  and  ordaines  that  finne 
alfo  of  dealing  for  fuch  to  be  laid  out  befor  him  ;  and  fo  is  appointed  to 
obey  quhat  the  Seflion  fall  enjoyne  him  to  doe. 

Slanderers  and  concealers. — The  Prefbyterie  being  informed  that  ther  be 
fome  quho  (lander  thefe  for  witches,  againft  quhom  ther  is  neither  pre- 
fumption  nor  dilation,  appoints  fuch  to  be  cenfured  by  the  Seffions  quher 
they  remaine,  as  moft  notorious  flanderers.  As  alfo  ordaines  fuch  as  con- 
ceales  any  prefumption  of  any  quho  are  apprehended,  quhen  it  fall  come 
to  light,  they  are  appointed  to  be  cenfured  by  Seffions  alfo. 


OCT.  1643.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS. 


15 


September  13. — Morels  for  touching  for  the  Cruells.—Johue  Moreis,  in  the 
Paroch  of  Gamble,  appointed  to  compeir  befor  the  Prefbyterie  the  nixt 
day,  for  takeing  vpon  him  to  heale  the  Cruelles  by  touching  them,  as  the 
feventh  fonne  of  a  woman.1 

The  dilations  againft  Helen  Scheivis  for  a  witch,  being  related  to  the 
Prefbyterie,  they  gave  ther  advyce  to  apprehend  and  try  her. 

September  20. — Minifters  to  fend  out  a  man  to  theArmie. — The  Prefbyterie 
received  a  letter  from  the  Committee  of  Eflates,  fhewing  ther  defire  that 
everie  minifter  may  fend  out  a  fojour  to  the  prefent  expedition,  of  which 
regiment,  the  Laird  of  Scottifcraig  is  appointed  Colonell ;  quhairto  the 
Prefbyterie  did  heartilie  acquiefce. 

Moreis  in  Carnbie. — Johne  Moreis,  in  the  Paroch  of  Carnbie,  acknow 
ledging  to  the  Prefbyterie,  that  he,  as  the  feventh  fonne  of  a  woman, 
touches  for  cureing  the  Cruells,  being  examined,  and  it  being  found  that 
he  did  it  ignorantlie,  is  difcharged  to  vfe  that  any  more  to  any,  vnder 
paine  of  Kirk  cenfures. 

O&ober  11. — Advyce. — The  Moderator  and  Mr.  Arthur  Myrton,  are 
appointed  to  goe  to  Anftruther-Wefter,  vpon  Fryday  mx"t,  and  give  ther 
advyce  to  fuch  Judges  as  falbe  prefent  ther  concerning  Ifbell  Dairfie,  how 
Ihee  falbe  vfed  in  meate,  drinke,  fleepe,  bed,  and  the  lyke. 

Otlober  18. — Covenant. — The  Prefbyterie  received  a  letter  from  the 
Commiffioners  of  the  Generall  AfTemblie,  with  fome  copies  of  the  folemne 
League  and  Covenant  for  reformation  of  Religion,  the  honour  and  hap- 
pines  of  the  King,  and  the  peace  and  fafetie  of  the  thrie  kingdomes  of 
Scotland,  England,  and  Ireland,  requyreing  the  Prefbyterie  to  vfe  all 
diligence  for  caufeing  the  feverall  congregations  fubfcryve  and  fweare  the 

1  The  gift  of  curing  the  Cruels  or  scrofula  by  the  touch,  was  supposed  to  be  an  inherent 
prerogative  of  our  Kings,  who  often  put  it  in  practice.  Charles  I.  when  he  visited  Scotland  in 
1633,  on  St.  John's  day,  "  heallit  100  persones  of  the  cruelles  or  King's  eivell,  yong  and  olde." 
It  would  appear,  however,  that  a  seventh  son,  who  is  superstitiously  believed  to  be  endued  by 
nature  with  infallibility  as  a  doctor,  also  possessed  this  imaginary  virtue.  "  It  is  manifest,  by 
experience,  that  the  seventh  male  child  by  iust  order,  (neuer  a  girle  or  wench  being  borne 
betweene,)  doth  heale  only  with  touching  (through  a  naturall  gift)  the  King's  evil :  which  is 
a  speciall  gift  of  God  given  to  Kings  or  Queenes,  as  daily  experience  doth  witnesse."  LUP- 
TON'S  NOTABLE  THINGS,  edit.  8vo.  1631,  p.  28. 


16  THE  PRESBYTERY  Nov.  1643. 

fame.  This  day,  the  whole  Prefbyterie,  minifters  and  elders,  fubfcryved 
the  fame,  and  appointed  it  to  be  read  and  explained  in  everie  kirk  of  this 
Prefbyterie  by  the  minifter ;  and  the  nixt  Lords  day  therafter,  that  it  lall 
be  folemnlie  fworne  by  all,  with  fading  and  humiliation,  and  all  maner  of 
religious  folemnities,  according  to  the  ordinance  of  the  faids  Comiffioners, 
and  therafter  to  proceid  with  all  convenient  diligence  to  the  fubfcryving 
therof  by  all. 

November  15. — Blair  complaines  of  Lundie. — Mr.  Robert  Blair  declared, 
that  quhill  he  and  his  collegue,  Mr.  Andro  Honyman,1  with  the  Gudman 
of  Kembok,  and  James  Wood,  baillie  of  St.  Andros,  being  fent  by  the 
Seflion  of  St.  Andros  to  Sir  James  Lundie,  inhabitant  in  the  faid  citie,  to 
defire  him  to  keepe  the  dyetts  of  the  publicke  worfhip  of  God,  he  having 
neir  the  fpace  of  ane  twelvemoneth  deferted  the  fame,  he  was  fo  fare  from 
promifeing  amendement,  that  he  behaved  himfelfe  injuriouflie  toward  the 
faid  Mr.  Robert  Blair,  and  quhen  his  hatt  was  in  his  hand,  he  put  his  on 
his  head,  and  gave  him  a  dired  lie.  The  Prefbyterie  ordaines  him  to  be 
fummond  to  compeir  befor  them  the  nixt  day. 

Attend  burning  of  witches. — Mr.  Robert  Blair,  Mr.  Colein  Adams,  Mr. 
Robert  Traill,  and  Mr.  James  Wood,  are  appointed  to  goe  to  Craill  on 
Fryday,  and  attend  the  execution  of  fome  witches ;  and  give  ther  advyce 
to  the  Judges  concerning  the  dilations  againft  others,  if  they  may  be  ap- 
prehendit  and  tryed. 

November  29. — Covenant. — This  day  the  Prefbyterie  received  a  letter 
from  the  Comiflion  of  the  Generall  AfTemblie,  requyreing  them  to  vrge 
all  Englifh  in  ther  bounds  to  fubfcryve  the  late  League  and  Covenant, 
and  to  fend  over  the  names  of  all  fuch  as  refufes  or  delayes  to  fubfcryve 
to  them,  that  they  may  be  delyvered  to  the  Englifli  Comiflioners.  They 
received  alfo  another  letter,  requyreing  infpe&ion  to  be  takin  if  all  in 
ther  owne  paroches  have  fubfcryved  and  fworne  the  fame,  and  to  fend 
over  the  names  of  refufers  or  delayers  to  them.  The  Communion  Rolles 
and  Covenants,  are  appointed  to  be  brought  in  to  the  Prefbyterie  this  day 
moneth,  to  St.  Andros. 

1  Minister  at  St.  Andrews,  and  afterwards  Bishop  of  Orkney.  He  wrote  a  Survey  of  Nap- 
tholi,  and  other  controversial  works. 


JAN.  1644.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  17 

December  28. — Letter  from  Lord  Bakarras — The  Prefbyterie  received  a 
letter  from  the  Lord  Balcarras,  defireing  that  they  wold  appoint  one  of 
ther  number  to  be  minifter  to  his  regiment  of  horfes.  In  regard  they  are 
alreadie  engadged  to  furnifti  the  Erie  of  Lindfay  his  regiment  of  a  minifter, 
and  the  Prelbyterie  of  Cuper  furnilh  none,  his  Lordfhip  is  defired  to  have 
his  recourfe  to  them  for  that  effe&. 

Januar  11,  1644. — Lundie  compeired. — Compeired  Sir  James  Lundie, 
Knycht,  quho,  being  pofed  vpon  the  particular  points  contained  in  the 
lybell,  acknowledged  he  had  not  beene  in  the  church  of  St.  Andros  for  the 
fpace  of  ane  twelvemoneth,  bot  alledged  he  was  not  to  blame,  becaufe  he 
could  not  have  a  feate  in  the  kirk.  As  for  giving  a  lie  to  Mr.  Robert 
Blair,  he  denyes  that,  only  being  much  provocked  by  the  faid  Mr.  Robert, 
he  faid,  "  If  yee  wer  another  man,  Sir,  I  wold  fay,  yee  lie."  The  Prefby 
terie  appoints  Mr.  Andro  Honyman,  the  Gudman  of  Kembok,  and  James 
Wood,  baillie  of  St.  Andros,  to  be  fummoned  as  witnefies  in  that  buffines 
againe  Wedinfday  nixt,  and  warnes  the  faid  Sir  James  apud  o£ta  to  com- 
peir  the  faid  day  to  heare  the  witnefles  examined. 

The  Prelbyterie  intreated  ther  brother  Mr.  James  Bruce,  to  remember 
the  Erie  of  Lindfay  to  give  a  generall  comiffion  for  apprehending,  trying, 
and  judgeing  of  fuch  as  are  or  falbe  dilated  for  witches  within  the  Stew- 
artrie. 

Advyce  for  Witches. — The  Prelbyterie  did  appoint  Mr.  David  Monro, 
Mr.  Colein  Adams,  Robert  Wilkie,  Robert  Traill,  Arthur  Myrton,  Johne 
Melvill,  minifters ;  Lathallen,  James  Airth,  and  Johne  Alexander,  ruling 
elders,  to  meitt  with  the  Judges  at  Pittenweeme,  and  give  ther  advyce,  if, 
vpon  the  dilations  againft  Chriftane  Dote  in  St.  Minnance,  Ihee  may  be 
apprehended  and  tryed. 

Januar  17. — Advyce  approven. — Thofe  quho  went  to  Pittenweeme  at 
the  Prelbyteries  diredion  to  give  ther  advyce  concerning  the  dilations 
againft  Chriftane  Dote,  declared  they  found  the  dilations  fufficient  to  ap 
prehend  and  try  her. 

Januar  24. — Mr.  Colein  Adams,  Mr.  Robert  Traill,  Mr.  Arthur  Myrton, 
and  Mr.  Robert  Bennett,  to  goe  to  Anftruther  the  morne,  and  attend  the 
execution  of  Ilbell  Dairfie. 

c 


18  THE  PRESBYTERY  FEB.  1644. 

Recommendation. — The  Prefbyterie  does  recommend  it  to  the  Laird  of 
Randerfton,  being  one  of  the  Judges  quhom  the  Erie  of  Lindfay  lies  de 
pute,  that  he  and  fome  others  with  him  will  apprehend  Chriftane  Dote, 
dilated  for  a  witch,  that  fliee  may  be  put  to  tryell. 

Februar  7. — Lundie  compeired. — Compeired  Sir  James  Lundie,  Knycht, 
quho  obje&ed  only  that  he  did  not  give  Mr.  Robert  Blair  a  direft 
lie.  The  witnefles  being  prefented,  he  was  defired  to  fhew  if  he  had  any 
thing  to  obje&  againft  any  one  or  all  of  them,  why  they  might  not  be  ad 
mitted  witnefles  in  that  particular,  quho  obje&ed,  that  they,  being  conjunct 
comiflioners  at  that  tyme  with  Mr.  Robert  Blair,  could  not  be  admitted 
as  witnefles  in  that  particular.  Which  obje&ion  the  Prefbyterie  having 
confiddered,  found  that,  notwithflanding  of  that  objection,  they  may  and 
ought  to  be  admitted  witnefles,  becaufe  the  particular  offence  is  done 
again  ft  Mr.  Robert  Blair ;  as  alfo,  becaufe  the  controverfie  could  not  be 
otherwayes  decided.  Wherevpon  the  faids  witnefles  were  particularlie 
fworne  to  declare  the  truth  in  that  buflines,  in  fo  farre  as  they  know  or 
falbe  fpeired  at ;  and  all  removed. 

Mr.  Andro  Honyman  being  examined,  declared,  That  the  faid  Sir  James 
being  accufed  for  flaying  fo  long  from  the  publicke  worfhip  of  God  in  the 
kirk,  he  promifed  no  amendement,  bot  behaved  himfelfe  rudelie  toward 
Mr.  Robert  Blair,  with  his  hatt  on  his  head,  quhen  Mr.  Roberts  was  in 
his  hand,  and  faid,  "  If  yee  will  fay  that,  Sir,  I  will  fay,  yee  lie ;  or  if  any 
in  Scotland  will  fay  it,  I  will  fay  he  lies." 

Kembok  declared,  That  amendement  in  ftaying  from  the  kirk  he  pro 
mifed  none ;  but  advancing  with  his  hatt  on  his  head,  with  his  hand  ftretched 
out  as  if  he  wold  ftrike,  he  faid,  "Whofoever,  even  the  beft  in  the  land,  will 
fay  that  which  yee  fay,  I  will  fay  he  lies." 

James  Wood,  baillie,  declared,  That  he  promifed  no  amending  of  his 
flaying  from  the  kirk,  bot  caried  himfelfe  in  a  rude  and  injurious  way  to 
the  faid  Mr.  Robert :  He  laid,  "  It  is  a  lie,  Sir,  yee  fay,  and  if  the  beft  in 
the  countrey  wold  fay  it,  I  wold  fay  the  lyke." 

Thus  the  whole  lybell  being  partlie  confefled  and  partlie  proven,  the 
faid  Sir  James  is  warned  apud  a£ta  to  compeir  befor  the  Prefbyterie  the  nixt 
day,  to  heare  ther  fentence  pronounced. 


FEB.  1644.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS. 


19 


Some  appointed  to  meitt  at  Silverdyke  and  Pittenweeme. — The  Prefbyterie 
doe  appoint  the  Moderator,  Mr.  Arthur  Myrton,  David  Monro,  Johne 
Heart, l  Robert  Bennett,  and  Johne  Melvill,  James  Lentron,  Johne  Alex 
ander,  Johne  Livingftone,  to  meitt  at  Silverdyke  with  a  quorum  of  the 
Judges,  and  confidder  of  the  dilations  againft  Margret  Myrton,  concerning 
charmeing  and  confulteing  with  witches,  and  give  ther  advyfe  quhat  courfe 
to  take  with  her.  As  alfo,  to  meitt  at  Pittenweeme  and  give  ther  advyfe 
concerning  the  watching  of  Chriftane  Dote,  and  her  dyett  of  fleepe,  bed, 
meate  and  drinke. 

Vakeing  Kirks  tofend  out  Men — The  parodies  whofe  kirks  are  vakeing  are 
appointed  to  fend  out  ther  men  for  Scottifcraigs  regiment,  aff  the  firft  end 
of  the  ftipend,  according  to  the  ordinance  of  the  Convention  of  Eftates 
and  Comiffion  of  the  Aflemblie. 

Februar  21.— Report  of  thefe  quho  went  to  Silverdyke  and  Pittenweeme. — 
Thefe  quho  had  comiffion  given  to  confidder  the  dilations  againft  Mar 
garet  Myrton  in  Silverdyke,  concerning  confulteing  with  witches  and  char 
mers,  declared,  that  they  fand  her  to  be  deiplie  guiltie  of  thefe,  yea  likelie 
to  be  guiltie  of  witchcraft  in  diverfe  particulars,  quhervpon  they  did  advyfe 
the  Judges  to  apprehend  and  try  her ;  quherin  they  are  appro ven.  As 
alfo  that  they  did  meitt  at  Pittenweeme,  where  they  did  give  ther  belt 
advyce  to  a  quorum  of  the  Judges,  concerning  the  fitteft  way  of  watching 
and  trying  Chriftane  Dote  in  St.  Minnance. 

The  Prefbyterie  appoints  Mr.  David  Monro,  Mr.  Colein  Adams,  Mr. 
Arthur  Myrton,  Mr.  Johne  Melvill,  and  Mr.  Robert  Bennett,  with  Mr. 
Andro  Honyman,  to  be  prefent  at  the  confrontation  of  Chriftane  Dote 
in  St.  Minnance,  and  Margaret  Balfour  in  St.  Andros,  with  Beatie  Dote 
in  Craill. 

Lykewakes  and  Buriatts. — The  Prefbyterie  being  verie  fenfible  of  the 
great  abufes  within  thefe  bounds  at  lykewakes  and  burialls,  efpeciallie  by 
drinking  after  the  fame,  doe  appoint  Mr.  James  Bruce,  and  Mr.  Andro 
Honyman,  to  confidder  of  overtures  for  reftraineing  therof,  and  reprefent 
them  to  the  Prefbyterie  the  nixt  day. 

Februar  21. — Lundies  excufe. — This  day  Sir  James  Lundie  fent  ane 

1  Minister  at  Crail,  translated  to  Denino,  December  1646,  and  to  Dunkeld,  December  1650. 


20  THE  PRESBYTERY  APRIL  1644. 

excufe  of  his  inhabilitie  to  appeare  befor  the  Prefbyterie,  therfor  de- 
fired  they  wold  delay  to  pronunce  thair  fentence  till  the  nixt  day.  The 
Prelbyterie  appointed  Do&or  Colvill,  and  Mr.  James  Wood  to  deale  with 
him  for  fubmitting  to  the  Prefbyterie,  and  appoints  him  to  be  fummond 
to  compeir  the  nixt  day. 

March  20. — Lykewakes  and  Buriatts. — The  Prefbyterie,  confiddering  of 
the  great  abufes  and  manifold  diflbrders  that  are  frequentlie  at  night 
wakeings  of  the  dead  and  burialls,  which  tend  to  the  great  difhonour  of 
God,  the  fcandall  of  the  Gofpell,  and  foftering  of  fuperftition  and  pro- 
fanitie,  have  appointed  and  ordained,  and  by  thir  prefents  doe  appoint, 
that  people  at  thefe  tymes  when  the  dead  are  in  the  houfe,  hold  there 
doores  clofe  as  at  other  tymes,  and  that  they  give  no  entrance  to  the  con- 
fufed  multitude  quho  frequent  fuch  occafions :  and  lykewife  ordaines  fuch 
as  goe  to  the  place  where  the  dead  are,  not  being  invited  by  the  freinds  of 
the  dead,  to  be  cenfured  by  Seffions  as  diflbrderlie  walkers ;  and  that  the 
freinds,  quho  have  the  dead  in  ther  houfe,  fall  call  none  to  beare  them 
companie  bot  thrie  or  foure  grave  kinfifolkes  or  freinds  quhom  they  thinke 
meeteft ;  and  they  are  to  remember  that  it  is  not  a  tyme  of  eating  or 
drinking,  or  making  merrie  after  a  wordlie  maner,  bot  to  carie  themfelves 
chriftianlie  as  becomes  perfones  profefling  godlines.  As  alfo,  they  appoint 
and  ordaine,  that  that  heathnifh  cuftome,  vnder  a  popifh  name,  of  drink 
ing  dirgies  after  the  corpes  are  interred,  be  vtterlie  abolifhed.  As  alfo, 
quhat  the  dead  appoints  to  be  given  to  the  poore,  or  freinds  thinke  fitt 
to  diftribute  that  way,  that  they  bring  or  fend  it  to  the  Seffion  of  the  con 
gregation  where  the  perfon  dies,  to  be  by  them  diftribute  to  the  poor, 
quho  muft  beft  know  the  neceffities  of  fuch,  and  can  diftribute  the  fame 
more  reafonablie  and  equal  lie  than  it  can  be  done  in  fo  great  a  tumult  of 
beggars  as  vfe  to  be  at  the  buriall  place,  where  they  that  cryes  moft  and 
have  lead  neid,  come  often  beft  fpeede. 

March  27. — Reference  to  the  Provincial!,  Quhat  falbe  the  cenfure  of 
confulters  with  witches  and  charmers  ?  As  alfo,  Quhat  falbe  the  cenfure 
of  fuch  as  are  maried,  and  within  a  fliort  tyme  after  brings  foorth  a 
child  ? 

Apryk  24. — The  Prefbyterie  doe  appoint  Mr.  Arthur  Myrton,  and  the 


JUNE  J644.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  21 

Laird  of  Randerfton,  to  fhew  the  Univerfitie,  that  it  is  ther  earneft  requeft 
that  Mr.  Thomas  Lentron  be  preferred  to  the  place  of  Bibliothecarian. 

May  20. — Lundie  and  Blair. — Thefe  appointed  to  fpeake  to  Sir  James 
Lundie  declaired,  they  had  difcharged  thair  commiffion,  and  found  him 
willing  to  fubmitt  to  thair  fentence,  yet  now  he  alledges  he  was  much 
provocked  by  Mr.  Robert  Blair  befor  he  fpake  any  wordes  in  paffion  to 
him,  which  he  offers  to  prove  by  witneffes.  The  Prefbyterie  appoint  him 
to  compeir  this  day  eight  dayes,  and  bring  any  witnefle  he  can  in  that 
bufmes,  vtherwayes  they  will  proceed  to  pronounce  thair  fentence. 

June  12. — Sentence  concerning  Sir  James  Lundie.- — The  Prefbyterie  tak 
ing  to  confideration  Sir  James  Lundie  his  buffines,  and  quhat  his  cenfure 
falbe,  confiddering  his  age  and  infirmitie  of  bodie,  doe  appoint  him  to 
come  befor  the  Prelbyterie,  and  there  to  acknowledge  that  offence  com 
mitted  by  him  againft  Mr.  Robert  Blair,  fent  to  him  in  commiffion  from 
the  Seffion  of  St.  Andros ;  and  at  the  faid  Mr.  Robert  his  returne,  he  is 
lykewayes  appointed  to  come  befor  the  Seffion  of  St.  Andros  and  doe  the 
lyke ;  and  the  Prefbyterie  doe  appoint  the  Seffion  of  St.  Andros  to  urge 
him  and  his  familie  to  frequent  the  Kirk. 

Beaton  Jlandered  of  Adultrie. — Mr.  Robert  Bennett  fhew  that  one  in 
his  paroch  apprehended  for  a  witch,  quho  is  now  burnt  for  that  faft,  did 
a  fhort  tyme  after  her  apprehending  (before  fhee  confeft  herfelfe  a  witch) 
confefle  that  fhee  had  committed  adulterie  with  Alexander  Beaton ;  and 
therafter  faid,  that  her  committing  of  that  adulterie  was  the  firft  caufe  of 
that  wickednes  of  witchcraft  wherein  fhee  hes  fallen  ;  quho,  being  accufed 
therof,  both  in  private  and  befor  the  Seffion,  denyes  the  fame ;  yea,  quhen 
he  was  defired  to  ftay  to  be  confronted  with  her  for  clearing  himfelfe, 
promifed  to  doe  fo,  bot  notwithftanding  went  over  to  Edinburgh  and 
flayed  ther  till  fhee  was  brunt ;  and  defires  the  Prefbyteries  advyce  quhat 
falbe  done  therin.  The  Prefbyterie  ordaine  him  to  be  fummond  to  com 
peir  befor  them  the  nixt  day. 

Norwett  Incejiuous. — Mr.  James  M'Gilli  fliew  that  James  Smith, 
Sheriffe  depute,  refufes  to  accept  of  Euphane  Norwell,  quho  confiffed  in- 
ceft  the  laft  day,  to  try  or  judge  her ;  alledging  that  it  belongs  to  the 

1  Minister  at  Largo. 


22  THE  PRESBYTERY  Nov.  1644. 

Erie  of  Lindfay  as  Stewart.  The  Prefbyterie  doe  defire  Mr.  James  Bruce 
to  declare  this  to  Alexander  Inglis  of  Kingafk,  quho  is  one  of  my  Lords 
deputes,  and  one  entrufted  with  my  Lords  eiTaires  now  quhen  he  is  out  of 
the  country. 

The  Prefbyterie  doe  appoint  Mr.  Colein  Adams,  Mr.  David  Monro,  Mr. 
Robert  Wilkie,  Mr.  Robert  Bennett,  Mr.  Harie  Rymer, 1  to  goe  to  Pitten- 
weeme,  and  deale  with  thofe  quhom  they  have  apprehended  as  witches. 

June  26. — The  Prelbyterie  doe  appoint  everie  minifter  to  try  in  his 
owne  paroch,  quho  did  fett  fyres  on  Midfummer  even,  and  caufe  cite  fuch 
befor  the  Seflion  to  be  cenfured  by  them. 

July  3. — The  Prefbyterie  appoint  Mr.  James  Wood,  Robert  Bennett, 
Colein  Adams,  and  Harie  Rymer,  to  attend  the  execution  of  fome  witches 
in  Pittenweeme  on  Monday  nixt. 

July  17. — Lundie  compared. — Compeired  Sir  James  Lundie,  and  ac 
knowledged  his  offence  againft  Mr.  Robert  Blair.  The  Prefbyterie  de- 
fired  him  to  keepe  the  kirk,  and  told  that  they  have  ordained  the  Seffion 
to  proceid  againft  him  with  the  cenfures  of  the  Kirk  if  he  doe  it  not. 

Auffujl  "i.'—Wylies  dilation. — Mr.  James  M'Gill  fhew  to  the  Prefbyterie 
dilations  againft  Jonat  Wylie,  dilated  for  a  witch  in  his  paroch,  defireing 
the  Prefbyteries  advyce  theranent.  The  Prefbyterie  doe  thinke  there  is 
fufficient  ground  for  apprehending  and  trying  her. 

Auffti/l  21. — CeJJation  from  Jervile  worke  on  Weeke  Dayes  of  Fa/liny. — 
According  to  a  former  appointment  of  the  Prefbyterie,  they  doe  againe 
appoint  and  ordaine,  that  ther  be  a  cefTation  from  all  fervile  worke  vpon 
fuch  weeke  dayes  as  are  appointed  for  folemne  fafting  and  humiliation, 
afwell  as  vpon  the  Lords  day,  vnder  paine  of  the  cenfures  of  the  Kirk. 

November  7. — Thankfgimng. — The  Prefbyterie  received  a  letter  from  the 
Commiffioners  of  the  Generall  AfTemblie,  ordaineing  a  day  of  thankfgiving 
through  the  kingdome,  on  Thurefday  come  eight  dayes,  for  the  gaineing 
of  Newcaftle. 

Roch  not  to  be  enlarged. — Compeired  befor  the  Prefbyterie,  James  Rkhie- 
fone,  baillie  of  Pittenweeme,  and  James  Airth,  clerk  therof,  requyreing 
the  advyce  of  the  Prefbyterie,  anent  one  Chriftane  Roch,  incarcerate  there 

1  Minister  at  Gamble. 


MARCH  1645.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  23 

for  a  witch,  vpon  thrie  feverall  dilations  of  tlirie  confeffing  witches,  quho 
have  all  fuffered ;  as  alfo,  a  fama  clamqfa  for  the  fpace  of  twentie  yeirs, 
and  fince  her  incarceration,  they  have  found,  by  the  fearch  of  the  hangman, 
two  raarkes ;  whither  or  not  they  might  enlarge  her  vpon  the  earned 
dealing  of  her  hulband,  quho  is  vfeing  all  means  for  obtaineing  heirof. 
The  Prelbyterie,  having  taken  the  mater  to  there  ferious  conlideration, 
thoght  the  foirfaid  prefumptions  fo  pregnant,  that  they  could  not  hot 
advyfe  them  not  to  enlarge  her  till  farther  tryell. 

December  18. — A  woman  in  Craill,  quho  confefles  that  Ihee  hes  not 
beene  in  the  kirk  at  publicke  worlhip  thrie  yeirs  together,  is  appointed  to 
come  befor  the  congregation  feverall  Sabbothes,  and  acknowledge  her 
offence  publickelie  ;  and  ordaines  her  to  be  put  in  the  hands  of  the  civile 
magistrate. 

December  25. — Advyce  concerning  Ladie  Carnbies  buriall. — The  advyce 
of  the  Prelbyterie  being  delired,  Whither  Margret  Melvill  might  be  buried 
within  ane  yle  of  the  kirk  of  Carnbie  ?  The  Prefbyterie,  having  heard  full 
information  of  the  buffines  on  both  parts,  declare  it  to  be  ane  breach  of 
the  a6t  of  the  Generall  Affemblie,  if  any  take  vpon  them  to  burie  her 
within  the  fame. 

The  Prefbyterie  does  referre  it  to  the  Generall  Affemblie,  quhat  falbe 
the  cenfure  of  iuch  as  are  convi&  of  charmeing,  or  confulting  with  witches. 

Januar  22, 1645. — Sheivis  rebuiked. — Mr.  Johne  Sheivis  did  acknowledge 
his  overfight  in  labouring  to  have  Margret  Melvill  buried  in  the  Yle  of 
the  kirk  of  Carnbie,  and  after  confeffing  of  his  fault,  was  admonilhed  by 
the  Prelbyterie,  and  promifed  to  carie  himfelfe  more  duetifullie  to  the 
Prelbyterie  for  afterward. 

Mr.  Johne  Barren  and  Mr.  James  Bruce  are  appointed  to  joyne  with 
the  Magiftrates  of  St.  Andros,  and  the  Erie  of  Craufurd  Lindfay  his 
deputes,  on  reviling  the  particulars  that  are  againlt  fome  incarcerate  for 
witches  in  St.  Andros,  and  give  ther  advyce  theranent. 

March  12. — Camron  Kirk. — The  whilk  day  was  produced  to  the  Prelby 
terie,  the  A&  of  Parliament  for  ere&ing  the  Kirk  of  Camron  in  a  paroch, 
and  deligneing  a  manteinance  therto ;  which  diligence  is  approven  by  the 
Prelbyterie,  and  the  parochiners  there  are  feriouflie  delired  to  concurre 


24  THE  PRESBYTERY  APRIL  1645. 

with  the  Prelbyterie,  to  quhom  the  right  of  patronage  belongs,  to  conde- 
fcend  vpon  a  man  for  filling  that  place. 

Apryle  2. — Bonar. — This  day  it  was  Ihewn  to  the  Prelbyterie,  that 
Thomas  Bonar,  fervand  to  Sir  James  Sandielands,  younger  of  St.  Min- 
nance,  being  drinking  in  Kylrinnie,  they  did  ling  a  malignant  fong,  and 
drinke  drinkes  to  James  Grahame,  fometymes  Montrois,  and  others.  The 
Moderator  and  Mr.  Harie  Rymer  are  appointed  to  try  in  Kylrinnie, 
quhat  further  they  can  of  that  buffines,  and  report  ther  diligence  the  nixt 
day. 

Apryle  1 6. — Sandielands. — It  was  fliewn  to  the  Prelbyterie,  that  David 
Sandielands,  fonne  to  the  Laird  of  St.  Minnance,  carroufeing  in  his  cups, 
he  did  take  a  badge  of  gold  from  about  his  necke,  and  threw  it  into  the 
cup,  and  wold  drinke  to  the  giver,  quho  is  alledged  to  be  quondam  Mon 
trois,  and  faid  that  diverle  of  qualitie  did  wear  the  lyke  badge.  The 
Prelbyterie  referre  the  farther  tryell  therof  to  the  Comiffioners  of  the 
Generall  Afiemblie,  and  appoints  a  letter  to  be  writen  to  them  for  that 
eflfeft,  and  Ihewing  that  he  intends  prefentlie  to  goe  to  France  with  my 
Lord  Kellie,*that  fuch  courfe  may  be  taken  as  by  them  falbe  thoght  moft 
expedient. 

Apryle  30. — Bonar. — Thefe  quho  were  appointed  to  try  concerning 
Thomas  Bonar  declared,  that  they  found  it  verified  by  thrie  witnefles,  that 
he  did  ling  thefe  wordes  : 

Bobo  Finla  did  command 

The  valiant  Grahame  and  the  Irish  band 

To  beate  the  rebells  out  of  the  land. 

And  that  he  dranke  a  health  to  Bobo  Finla.  Both  which  he  did  therafter 
confefle,  alledging  he  knew  not  quhat  Bobo  Finla  meant,1  bot  that  he  had 
heard  diverfe  of  note  ling  that  fong,  and  drinke  that  drinke  in  Edinburgh, 
a  twelvemonth  fince :  quho  being  called,  compeired  and  acknowledged 
the  fame  to  the  Prelbyterie,  bot  wold  not  declare  quhom  he  heard  ling 
the  fong,  or  drinke  the  drinke.  The  Prelbyterie  referres  the  further  tryell 
heirof  to  the  Comiflioners  of  the  Generall  AfTemblie ;  and  in  the  meane- 

1  Perhaps  by  Bobo  Finla  was  meant  King  Charles  I. 


MAY  1645.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  25 

tyme,  defire  the  Magiftrates  of  St.  Andros  to  incarcerate  him,  till  he  be 
either  fafelie  conveyed  to  Edinburgh,  or  fufficient  caution  found  that  he 
fall  anfwer  ther  according  to  law. 

Vagabond  beggar. — Whereas  the  vagabond  beggar,  mentioned  the  former 
day,  is  willing  to  refide  in  a  paroch,  and  to  worke  in  his  calling,  he  being 
a  homer,1  obleifhing  himfelfe  to  be  willing  to  be  fcourged  through  any 
towne  quher  he  falbe  found  vageing  heirafter,  and  to  make  fatiffadion  to 
the  Kirk,  and  marie  the  woman  that  he  may  have  his  chyld  baptized ; 
quhervpon  the  Prelbyterie  did  appoint  Mr.  Johne  Barren  to  baptize  the 
chyld  after  the  performance  of  thefe  things. 

Kelfo. — This  day  the  Prefbyterie  received  a  letter  from  the  Comiffioners 
of  the  Generall  Affemblie,  (hewing  the  great  defolation  of  the  towne  of 
Kelfo,2  defyreing  that  they  wold  ftirre  vp  thofe  in  the  bounds  to  extend 
ther  chriftian  charitie  for  ther  releife.  The  anfwer  heirvnto  is  referred  to 
the  next  day. 

Sheivis. — A  fupplication  from  Helen  Sheivis,  incarcerate  for  a  witch  in 
St.  Andros,  referred. 

May  14. — Perfons  to  be  maried  to  ena£t  themfelves  at  ther  contract. — The 
Prelbyterie  doe  appoint  and  ordaine  that  fuch  perfons  as  being  requyred 
at  the  contracting  will  not  fubmitt  to  ena6l  themfelves,  according  to  the 
A6ts  of  the  Juftice  of  Peace  and  Prelbyterie,  concerning  the  number  of 
perfons  at  manages,  that  they  be  not  proclaimed  till  they  ena6b  them 
felves  to  obey  the  fame. 

Bonar. — Whereas  Thomas  Bonar  hath  now  beene  fyftein  dayes  in  the 
tolbuith  of  St.  Andros,  and  no  order  taken  for  bringing  him  to  Edinburgh, 
and  he  is  poore  and  not  able  to  intertaine  himfelfe,  it  is  appointed  that 
he  fall  make  his  publicke  repentance  in  Kylrinnie  and  in  Kilconquhar  for 
his  great  mifcariage ;  and  fall  therafter  ena6t  him  felfe  in  the  Seffion  of 
Kilconquhar,  and  find  caution  to  anfwer  the  Comiflioners  of  the  Generall 
Affemblie  quhen  he  fall  be  called  for  to  them. 

Bamuto  and  others  drinking  in  St.  Minnance. — Whereas  it  is  certified  to 
the  Prelbyterie,  that  in  the  houfe  of  St.  Minnance,  by  perfons  quho  were 

1  A  maker  of  horn  spoons,  &c.  2  Kelso  at  this  tyme  suffered  severely  from  the  plague. 

D 


26  THE  PRESBYTERY  JUNE  1645. 

ther  at  the  Laird  of  St.  Minnance  buriall,  healths  were  dranke,  and  ell- 
quher  offered  to  be  drunken,  to  Sir  Marmaduke  Langdell,  Colkittoch, 
the  Captaine  of  Athole,  particularlie  by  the  Laird  of  Bamuto,  The 
Prefbyterie  doe  recomend  it  to  Mr.  Thomas  Black  to  reprefent  that  con 
cerning  Bamuto  to  ther  Prefbyterie  in  whofe  bounds  he  dwells ;  and  doe 
appoint  the  Moderator  and  Mr.  David  Monro  to  try  quhat  further  clear 
ing  they  can  have  therof,  and  report  ther  diligence  the  nixt  day. 

June  4. — Report  from  Melvill. — Mr.  James  Wood  declared,  that  the 
realbn  why  Mr.  Johne  Melvill  keepes  not  the  dyets  of  the  Prefbyterie  is 
becaufe  of  the  gutt.  And  that  he  acknowledges  his  omitting  the  prayer 
of  confecration  at  the  Table,  bot  alledges  that  he  did  that  which  he  judges 
to  be  equivalent  in  the  pulpitt ;  and  that  he  did  not  reade  the  wordes  of  the 
inftitution  at  all,  bot  did  relate  them  fhortlie  quhill  he  was  diftributeing 
the  Elements  ;  alledging  quhat  he  did  to  bejcandalum  acceptum,  notfcan- 
dalum  datum.  He  is  appointed  to  come  to  the  Prefbyterie  the  nixt  day, 
if  he  may  pofliblie. 

Healths  in  St.  Minnance. — Mr.  David  Forrett  declared,  that  he  pofed 
Mr.  Andrb  Moncreiff  concerning  the  drinkeing  of  James  Grahame  quon 
dam  Montrois  his  health,  in  the  houfe  of  St.  Minnance ;  quho  confeffes  it 
was  motioned  and  begunne,  bot  remembers  not  by  quhom,  only  it  was 
alledged  to  be  by  Bamuto  ;  bot  it  went  not  about  the  table.  Mr.  Harie 
Rymer  is  appointed  to  vfe  further  diligence  in  trying  therof,  and  to  ad- 
vertife  the  Prefbyterie  of  Kirkadie  quhat  he  learns  heirin. 

June  11. — Melvitts  acknowledgment. — Mr.  Johne  Melvill  being  prefent, 
acknowledges  his  omiffion  of  the  prayer  of  confecration  at  the  Table  to 
be  againft  Chrifts  inftitution,  and  the  pra&ife  of  our  Kirk,  and  that  he 
failed  againft  the  order  of  our  Kirk  in  not  reading  the  wordes  of  the  in 
ftitution  befor  the  diftributeing  of  the  Elements.  For  the  prelent  it  is 
appointed,  that  thofe  quho  were  formerlie  appointed  to  heare  him  preach, 
fall  heare  him  twyfe  befor  Mr.  David  Guthrie  his  admiffion.1 

1  Mr.  Johne  was  considered  by  his  parishioners  unedifyiug  in  his  doctrine, — "  his  memoric 
and  judgement  being  now  of  a  long  tyme  jumbled  through  his  owne  default," — that  there  was 
"  too  much  wyne  drunken  in  his  house,"  altho  they  had  never  "seene  him  drunke,  in  respect 
he  is  an  able  man,"  &c. 


JULY  1645.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS. 


27 


Reyratefw  exceffe  in  drinking. — Whereas  it  is  regrated,  that  when  the 
Comittee  meete  at  Couper  ther  is  great  exceffe  in  drinking  vfed  by  fome 
after  ther  meetings.  As  alfo,  that  thofe  quho  are  appointed  to  plunder 
deficients  drinke  quhat  they  plunder,  and  give  great  offence  that  way. 
Mr.  George  Hamilton,  Mr.  James  M'Gill,  and  Skedoway,  are  defired  to 
reprefent  the  fame  to  the  Prelbyterie  of  Couper,  and  to  advyfe  with  them 
quhat  may  be  the  beft  courfe  for  reftraineing  thefe  abufes. 

June  18. — This  day  the  Prefbyterie  received  the  A6t  of  the  Comittee  of 
Eftaitis  appointing  a  contribution  for  the  help  of  the  towne  of  Dundie ; 
which  is  to  be  further  thoght  vpon,  for  laying  downe  the  way  therof  at 
more  lenth. 

Scot,  mittar  in  Anftruther. — The  Prelbyterie  doe  appoint  James  Scott 
to  ena&  himfelfe  in  the  Seffion  books  of  Anftruther  Welter,  that  he  fall 
not  fuffer  his  mylne  to  goe  from  midnight  to  midnight  on  the  Lords  day, 
vnder  the  ordinar  paine. 

July  9. — A61  again/I  thofe  quho  fatt  be/or  Manage. — The  Prelbyterie  con- 
fiddering  the  ryfe  vncleannes  that  is  found  amongft  perfons  that  propofes 
to  enter  in  mariage  together,  quho,  not  expe&ing  the  folemne  bleffing  to 
ther  mariage,  and  the  prayers  of  Gods  people,  according  to  the  godlie 
order  of  the  Church,  wickedlie  defyle  themfelves  with  hope  to  Ihelter  ther 
vncleannes  from  the  cenfures  of  the  Church  by  the  following  mariage ; 
fome  that  way  enfnareing  themfelves  in  vnmeit  manages,  without  the 
knowledge  and  to  the  great  greife  of  parents,  and  fuch  as  have  intereft  in 
them,  to  the  great  fcandall  of  the  profeffion  of  the  Gofpell ;  provokeing 
God  alfo  this  way  to  curfe  ther  manages  for  ther  difibrderlie  runneing  to 
it :  Theirfor,  for  remedie  heirof,  and  removeing  the  fcandall  enfueing  hence, 
they  have  ordained,  that  heirafter  fuch  maried  perfons,  of  quhom  it  fall 
clearlie  and  certainlie  appear,  that  befor  ther  mariage  they  have  knowen 
one  another,  whither  befor  or  after  ther  contrad,  fall  publicklie  declare 
ther  repentance  befor  the  congregation  offended  by  ther  cariage.  And 
ordains  this  A6t  to  be  publilhed  in  pulpits  that  none  pretend  ignorance 
heirof,  and  to  be  regiftrate  in  the  Seflion  bookes  of  the  feverall  paroches 
within  this  Prelbyterie. 


28  THE  PRESBYTERY  AUG.  1645. 

July  23. — Guthries  admiffion. — The  Prefbyterie  mett  this  day  at  Anl- 
truther  Wefter  for  admiffion  of  Mr.  David  Guthrie. 

Auyufl  11. — The  Preflbyterie  received  a  letter  from  the  Comiffion  of 
the  Kirk,  together  with  a  enclofed  Paper,  entituled  "  ENORMITIES  AND 
CORRUPTIONS  IN  THE  MINISTRIE,  AND  THE  REMEDIES  THEREOF,  RECO- 
MENDED  TO  THE  SEVERALL  PRESBYTERIES;"  the  tenour  whereof  followis  ; 
and  firft  the  tenour  of  the  letter. 

REVEREND  AND  BELOVED  BRETHREN, 

BEING  frequentlie  heir  by  advyce  and  desire  of  the  Honorable  Estates  of  Parliament,  and 
being  also  by  them  excited  to  make  ane  acurate  search  of  the  sinnes  of  the  land,  provokeing 
the  Lord  to  so  great  indignation  against  vs,  we  did  exhibite  to  them  a  new  and  necessarie 
Warning,  breiflie  containing  the  causes  of  our  judgement,  and  the  conceived  remedies  therof, 
which,  for  some  reasons,  is  thoght  fitt  not  to  be  printed  at  this  tyme.  Only,  we  signifie  this 
to  you,  that  in  the  end  therof,  we  exhorted  the  severall  States  among  themselves  to  make  a 
strict  inquisition  of  the  sinnes  most  incident  to  themselves,  that  they  might  provocke  one 
another  to  repentance,  and  zeale  to  God  and  his  cause,  and  so  make  better  vse  of  this  then  of 
our  former  Warnings  ;  and  they  accordinglie  sett  apart  a  tyme  to  that  effect,  and  went  about  it. 
And  we,  quho.did  exhort  others,  thoght  it  incumbent  to  ourselves,  seriouslie  to  search,  and 
humblie  and  sadlie  to  acknowledge,  the  faults  of  our  persons  and  callings,  and  such  as  were 
knowen  to  be  too  rife  amongst  vs  of  the  Ministrie ;  which  was  in  a  solemne  way  performed  in 
one  of  our  meetings,  one  by  one,  as  the  Lord  touched  everie  mans  heart  and  opened  there 
mouth.  Out  of  which  speaches,  the  inclosed  Catalogue  of  sinnes,  and  Remedies  therof,  was 
extracted,  and  the  samen  we  thoght  good  to  transmitt  vnto  you,  that  yee,  making  vse  therof, 
and  reflecting  your  thoghts  vpon  your  selves,  may  Presbyteriallie  follow  the  same  course,  and 
give  order  that  the  samen  be  done  in  your  severall  Sessions ;  desireing  withall,  that  in  each 
congregation,  in  a  solemne  humiliation,  ther  may  be  a  confession  and  bewaileing  of  sinne,  and 
a  pressing  of  each  familie  privatelie  to  performe  the  samen,  that  so  at  last  all  Scotland  may 
lament  after  the  Lord,  that  his  fierce  wrath  may  depart  from  vs.  Swa,  hopeing  yee  will  not 
be  deficient  herein  in  so  necessarie  a  tyme,  we  committ  you  and  your  labours  to  the  blessing 
of  God,  and  rests 

Your  loving  brethren  the  Comissioners  of  the  Generall  Assemblie. 

(Sic  sub1-)  Mr.  WILLIAM  BENNETT,  Moderatuur. 

Perth,  August  5,  1645. 

Postscript. — This  our  Letter,  together  with  the  inclosed  Articles,  we  requvre  to  be  registered 
in  the  Presbvterie  bookes  for  our  exoneration. 


AUG.  1645.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  29 

ENORMITIES  AND  CORRUPTIONS  OBSERVED  TO  BE  IN  THE  MINISTRIE,  WITH  THE  REMEDIES  THEREOF. 

ENORMITIES. 

The  first  and  maine  sinne,  reaching  both  to  our  personal!  carriage  and  callings,  we  judge  to 
be,  not  studieing  how  to  keepe  communion  and  fellowshippe  with  God  in  Christ,  but  walking 
in  a  natural!  way  without  employing  of  Christ,  or  drawing  vertue  from  him,  to  enable  vs  vnto 
sanctification  and  preaching  in  spirit  and  power. 

In  our  Lyves. 

1.  Much  fruitles  conversing  in  companie,  and  complying  with  the  sinnes  of  all  sorts,  not 
behaving  ourselves  as  becomes  the  men  of  God. 

2.  A  great  worldlines  is  to  be  found  amongst  vs,  mynding  and  speaking  most  about  things 
of  this  life,  being  busied  about  many  things,  but  forgeting  the  maine. 

3.  Slighting  of  Gods  worship  in  their  families,  and  theirfor  no  cordiall  vrgeing  of  it  vpon 
others ;  yea,  altogether  wanting  of  it  in  some,  if  it  be  credible. 

4.  Want  of  gravitie  in  carriage  and  apparrell,  dissolutenes  in  haire,  and  shaking  about  the 
knies ;  lightnes  in  the  apparrell  of  ther  wyves  and  children. 

5.  Tippleing  and  bearing  companie  in  vntymeous  drinking  in  tavernes  and  ale-houses,  or  any 
quher  els ;  quherby  the  Ministrey  is  made  vyle  and  contemptible. 

6.  Discountenanceing  of  the  godlie,  speaking  ill  of  them,  because  of  some  that  are  vnansuer- 
able  to  their  profession. 

7.  The  Sabboth  not  sanctified  after  sermons,  which  maketh  people  thinke  that  the  Sabboth 
is  ended  with  the  sermon. 

8.  Their  are  also  to  be  found  amongst  vs,  quho  vse  small  and  minced  oathes. 

9.  Some  so  great  strangers  to  Scripture,  that,  except  in  ther  publicke  ministrie,  thogh  they 
read  many  things,  yet  they  are  litle  conversant  in  the  Scripture,  and  in  meditation  therof,  a 
duetie  incumbent  to  all  the  people  of  God. 

In  our  Callings. 

1 .  Corrupt  entrie  into  the  ministrie  in  former  tymes,  and  following  the  course  of  defection  ; 
though  forsaken  yet  never  seriouslie  repented  :  As  also,  present  entring  into  the  Ministrie  as  to 
a  way  of  living  in  the  world,  and  not  as  a  spiritual!  calling. 

2.  Helping  in,  and  holding  in,  of  insufficient  and  suspected  men,  quho  savour  of  the  things  of 
this  life ;  and  keeping  the  doore  straiter  on  them  quhom  God  hath  sealed,  than  vpon  these  quho 
have  lesse  evidence  of  the  power  of  grace  and  holines. 

3.  Partialitie  in  favouring  and  speaking  for  the  scandalous,  whither  Ministers  or  other  per 
sons,  teaching  them  how  to  delay  or  shift  censures. 

4.  Silence  in  the  publicke  cause,  not  labouring  to  cure  the  disaffection  of  people,  not  vrgeing 
them  to  constancie  and  patience  in  bearing  of  publicke  burdeins,  nor  to  forwardnes  in  the  pub 
licke  cause,  quherby  Malignants  are  multiplied ;  yea,  some  are  so  grosse  heirin,  that  even  in 
publicke  fasts,  litle  or  nothing  is  to  be  heard  from  them  sounding  this  way. 


30  THE  PRESBYTERY  AUG.  1645. 

5.  Some  account  it  a  point  of  wisdome  to  speake  ambiguouslic  ;  some  inclyne  to  justifie  the 
wicked  cause,  vttering  wordes  whicli  savour  of  disaffection ;  and  all  ther  complaining  of  the 
tymes  is  in  such  a  way  as  may  steale  the  hearts  of  people  from  lykeing  of  good  instruments  in 
this  worke,  and  consequentlie  from  Gods  cause ;  yea  some,  reading  publicke  orders,  are  ready 
to  speake  against  them  in  ther  private  conference. 

6.  Idlenes,  either  in  seldome  preaching,  as  once  on  the  Lords  day,  or  in  preparation  for 
publicke  dueties,  not  being  given  to  reading  and  meditation :  others  have  bot  fitts  of  paines, 
not  lyke  other  tradsmen,  continuallie  at  ther  worke. 

7.  Want  of  zeale  and  love  to  the  conversion  of  soules,  not  being  weighted  with  the  want  of 
successe  in  reclaimeing  of  sinners,  nor  searching  in  themselves  the  cause  of  nocht  profiteing ; 
preaching  ex  officio,  nocht  ex  conscientie  officij. 

8.  Selfe  seeking  in  preaching,  and  a  venting  rather  of  their  wit  and  skill,  then  shewing  foorth 
of  the  wisdome  and  power  of  God. 

9.  Lifelesnes  in  preaching,  not  studieing  to  be  furnished  by  Christ  with  power,  and  so  the 
ordinance  of  God  reacheth  not  to  the  conscience ;  and  heirto  belougeth  the  not  applying  of  the 
doctrine  vnto  the  auditorie  and  tymes. 

10.  The  indiscreit  cureing  of  the  indiscretion  of  pious  people  and  ministers,  quherby  godli- 
nes  hath  gotten  a  deepe  wound,  and  profanitie  hath  lifted  vp  the  head,  contrarie  to  that  wise 
and  gracious  order  set  foorth  in  the  Generall  Assemblie  holden  at  Edinburgh  1641. 

11.  Litle  care  to  furnish  our  Annie,  either  abroad  or  at  home,  with  ministers:  One  of  our 
greivous  sins,  and  causes  of  our  calamitie. 

12.  Last,  it  is  to  be  feared  that  Ministers  in  secreit  are  negligent  to  wrestle  in  prayer,  for 
a  blessing  to  be  poured  out  vpon  ther  labours,  contenting  themselves  with  the  publicke  per 
formances. 

REMEDIES. 

1.  First,  That  Presbyteries  make  great  conscience  to  have  all  vacant  places  within  ther 
severall  bounds  filled  with  godlie  and  able  men,  quher  ever  they  be  to  be  found  :    And  that 
vnder  pretence  of  being  a  helper  or  second  to  another,  none  be  taken  in  bot  such  as  are  able 
for  the  same  charge. 

2.  Whereas  it  is  knowen  that  private  tryalls  in  Presbyteries  are  for  the  most  part  perfunc- 
torious,  the  brethren  are  heirby  exhorted  to  be  more  serious,  and  faithfull  heirin,  as  they  wilbe 
ansuerable  to  Christ,  the  cheife  shepherd.     And  in  a  way  previous  therto,  that  brethren  be 
frie  in  loving  admonition,  one  of  another  secretlie,  from  tyme  to  tyme ;  and  that  quhosoever 
keepes  not  the  Presbyterie  or  Synod,  after  grave  admonitions,  may  come  vnder  further  censures, 

3.  That  acuracie  be  vsed  at  Visitation  of  kirks ;  and  that  the  Elders,  one  by  one,  (the  rest 
being  removed),  be  called  in,  and  examined  vpon  the  Ministers  behaviour  in  his  calling  and 
conversation. 

4.  That  course  be  taken  to  divyde  congregations  in  parts,  and  by  the  help,  not  only  of 
Elders  in  ther  severall  parts,  bot  of  neighbours  also,  the  evills  and  neglects  of  persons  and 
families  may  be  found  out  and  remedied. 


AUG.  1645.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  31 

5.  That  everie  Minister  be  humbled  for  his  former  failings,  and  make  his  peace  with  God, 
that  the  more  effectuallie  he  may  preach  repentance,  and  may  stand  in  the  gape,  to  turn  away 
the  Lords  wrath  ;  runneing  betweene  the  Porch  and  the  Altar,  sighing  and  crying  for  all  the 
abhominations  of  the  land. 

6.  Speciall  care  wold  be  had,  that  all  Ministers  have  ther  conversation  in  heaven,  mainlie 
mynding  the  things  of  God,  and  exercising  faith  for  drawing  life  out  of  Jesus  Christ,  the  fon- 
taine  of  life,  armeing  themselves  therby  with  power  against  the  contagion  and  wickednes  of 
the  world. 

7.  Care  wold  be  had  of  godlie  conference  in  Presbyteries,  even  in  tyme  of  ther  refreshment ; 
and  the  Moderator  is  to  looke  to  it,  that  good  mater  be  furnished  therto. 

8.  It  is  also  verie  necessarie  for  everie  Minister,  that  wold  be  fruitfull  in  the  worke  of  the 
Lord,  to  bring  home  the  word  of  God  to  his  owne  heart  and  conscience  by  prayer  and  medi 
tation,  both  befor  and  after  the  publicke  ordinance. 

9.  Vse  wold  be  made  of  the  Roll  of  the  paroch,  not  only  for  examination,  bot  also  for  con- 
siddering  the  severall  conditions  and  dispositions  of  the  people,  that  accordinglie  they  may  be 
admonished,  and  prayed  for  by  the  Ministers  in  secreit. 

10.  It  is  verie  expedient  that  Ministers  have  more  communion  among  themselves,  for  ther 
mutuall  stirreing  vp  and  strengthening  of  ther  hands  in  the  Lords  worke,  and  rectifieing  of 
these  quho  are  nocht  incorrigible. 

11.  That  Ministers  in  all  sorts  of  companie  labour  to  be  fruitfull,  as  the  salt  of  the  earth, 
seasoning  them  they  meitt  with ;  not  only  forbearing  to  drinke  healths  (Satans  snare  leading 
to  excesse)  bot  reproveing  it  in  others. 

12.  All  Ministers  wold  be  carefull  to  cherish  the  smoaking  flaxe  of  weake  beginnings  in 
the  wayes  of  God,  and  ought  couragiouslie  to  oppose  all  mockers  and  revylers  of  the  godlie. 

13.  As  at  all  tymes,  so  speciallie  now,  quhen  the  Lord  is  calling  vs  to  ane  account,  it  be 
comes  the  Ministers  of  Christ,  with  all  diligence  and  faithfulnes,  to  improve  ther  ministrie  to 
the  vtmost,  to  be  instant  in  season  and  out  of  season  ;  yea,  even  frugallie  to  employ  ther  tyme 
in  private,  in  reading  of  and  meditateing  on  Scripture,  that  the  Word  of  God  may  dwell 
plentifullie  in  them. 

14.  That  the  provydeing  the  Armies  with  Ministers  be  preferred  to  any  congregation;  and 
these  who  are  appointed  to  attend  the  same  and  are  deficient,  be,  without  delay,  severelie  cen 
sured  according  to  the  Act  of  the  Generall  Assemblie.     And  that  all  Ministers,  not  only  in 
publicke,  pray  for  our  Armies,  speciallie  these  that  are  to  encounter  with  the  bloodie  enemie  with 
in  the  land,  bot  also  cbntinuallie  beare  them  vp  befor  the  Lord ;  that  their  lyves  being  reformed, 
thair  hearts  and  hands  may  be  strengthened,  and  thair  vndertakings  at  last  blessed  of  God 
with  successe. 

15.  That  besyde  all  other  scandalls,  silence,  or  ambiguous  speaking  in  the  Publicke  cause, 
much  more  detracting  and  disaffected  speaches,  be  seasonablie  censured :   And  to  this  effect, 
all  honest  hearted  brethren  wold  firmelie  vnite  themselves  in  the  Lord,  the  younger  honouring 
the  elder,  and  the  elder  not  despiseing  the  younger. 


32  THE  PRESBYTERY  SEPT.  1645. 

16.  And  final lir,  both  for  the  corruption  of  the  Ministrie,  and  remedies  therof,  we  referre 
the  brethren  to  the  Act  of  theGenerall  Assemblie  at  Edinburgh  1596,  revived  in  the  late  As- 
semblie  at  Glasgow  1638,  to  be  found  in  the  printed  Act  concerning  the  same. 

Mr.  Andro  Honyman  appointed  to  attend  Cambus  regiment  15  dayes. 

This  tyme  the  Prefbyterie  were  interrupted  of  meeting  by  the  great 
troubles  of  the  countrey. 

September  1 7. — The  Prefbyterie  feriouflie  confiddering  the  late  wonder- 
full  and  glorious  vi&orie  at  Philiphauch  over  the  rebells,  being  defirous 
to  performe  publicke  thankfgiveing  to  God  for  the  fame,  als  folemnlie 
as  may  be,  and  being  loath  to  delay  the  fame,  have  appointed  the  nixt 
Lords  day  to  be  a  preparation  for  the  fame,  and  the  Lords  day  nixt  fol 
lowing  a  day  of  folemne  thankfgiving. 

The  Prefbyterie,  confiddering  quhat  is  ther  duetie  at  this  tyme  toward 
fuch  as  have  kythed  themfelves  evill  affe&ed  to  the  worke  of  God  in  thir 
kingdomes,  in  this  tyme  of  our  calamitie,  and  that  ther  be  diverfe  rankes 
of  them ;  fome  quho  have  opinlie  kythed  the  fame,  and  beene  corrupters 
of  others,  fuch  are  appointed  to  be  very  peremptorlie  dealt  with  in  re- 
buikeing  and  cenfuring  of  them  ;  for  others  quho  have  not  proceeded  fo 
farre,  and  yet  through  weaknes  and  being  tempted,  have  beene  readie  to 
curfe  the  worke,  and  to  judge  of  the  caufe  by  the  effe&s,  and  to  curfe 
thofe  quhom  the  Lord  hath  employed  as  fpeciall  inflruments  therin,  yea 
have  beene  on  the  brinke  of  forfakeing  the  Covenant, — Minifters  are  ex 
horted,  both  in  ther  dodrine  and  vtherwayes,  to  fett  foorth  the  greivouf- 
nes  of  that  finne  of  murmureing,  and  quhat  the  woefull  confequences 
therof  may  be,  and  no  queftion  will  be,  if  not  feriouflie  repented  for. 

Becaufe  the  Provinciall  now  approaches,  it  is  thoght  fitt  the  pra&ife 
of  the  Dire&orie  of  Worfhip  be  delayed  till  a  courfe  be  fett  downe  by 
them  for  vniformitie.  In  the  meanetyme  minifters  are  appointed  to  be 
making  way  for  the  fame,  by  giving  information  to  ther  people,  both  in 
ther  publicke  do6trine  and  vtherwayes  theranent. 

October  1. — A  fupplication  prefented  be  Andro  Strang  in  Pittenweeme, 
defireing  that  his  wife  Chriflane  Roch,  incarcerate  for  a  witch  a  long 
tyme  fince,  and  yet  not  put  to  tryell,  may  be  enlarged.  The  anfwer  is 
referred  till  the  nixt  day. 


MAY  1646.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS. 


33 


O&ober  8. — The  Prefbyterie,  having  feene  and  confiddered  of  the  dila 
tions  againft  Chriftane  Roch,  doe  thinke  fhee  fhould  be  put  to  a  tryell. 

November  6. — Carmichaett  Warlock. — The  dilations  againft  Andro  Car- 
michaell,  in  the  paroch  of  Dininnow,  incarcerate  in  St.  Andros  for  a  warloke, 
being  red  and  confiddered,  advyce  was  given  that  he  might  be  enlarged, 
vpon  caution  to  returne  to  ward  againe  quhenfoever  he  fall  be  called  by 
the  Judges. 

Januar  21,  1646. — Support  for  Craill — The  brethren  are  exhorted  to 
deale  with  ther  parochiners  to  contribute  for  the  help  of  the  towne  of  Craill 
now  in  ther  great  calamitie. 

Februar  25. — This  day  the  Prefbyterie  received  a  letter  from  the 
Comittee  of  Eftaites,  defireing  the  names  of  all  the  killed  in  this  fervice, 
together  with  the  number  of  orphanes  and  widowes,  and  ther  feverall  ages 
and  cafes,  may  be  fent  to  them.  All  are  appointed  to  vfe  diligence  heirin. 

May  6. — This  day  the  Prefbyterie  mett  at  the  new  ere&ed  Kirk  of 
Camrone,  for  admitting  of  Mr.  George  Nairne  minifter  therat. 

May  21. — Melvitt  prohibite  to  give  the  Communion. — The  Prelbyterie, 
being  informed  that  Mr.  Johne  Melvill  intends  to  celebrate  the  facra- 
ment  of  the  Lords  Supper  the  nixt  Lords  day,  doe  appoint  him  to  ceafe 
therin,  till  they  comon  with  him  anent  the  efcapes  he  committed  the  laft 
occafion  he  had  of  that  kynd. 

May  21. — Abercrombie  and  St.  Minnance. — The  quhilk  day  Sir  James 
Sandielands  of  St.  Minnance  gave  in  a  fupplication  to  the  Prefbyterie, 
in  name  of  himfelfe  and  the  inhabitants  of  the  towne  and  lands  of  St. 
Minnance,  defireing  the  forfaid  towne  and  lands  of  St.  Minnance  to 
be  difmembered  from  the  paroch  of  Kilconquhar,  for  feverall  reafons ;  and 
containeing  feverall  reafons  quherfor  the  Kirk  of  St.  Minnance  in  that 
cafe  fould  be  the  place  of  meeting  for  publicke  worfhip,  and  that  the 
Prefbyterie  wold  concurre  for  obtaineing  heirof.  The  Prefbyterie  heartilie 
approves  the  fame,  and  promifes  to  vfe  ther  befl  endeavores  for  accelerat 
ing  therof;  and  appoints  a  letter  to  be  written  to  my  Lord  Balcarras, 
patron  of  Kilconquhar  paroch,  to  that  effed,  and  the  Laird  of  Kincraig 
to  declare  the  fame  to  the  Seffion  of  Kilconquhar,  that  they  may  declare 
their  mynd  heiranent  to  the  Prefbyterie  at  Kilconquhar  the  nixt  day. 


34  THE  PRESBYTERY  SEPT.  1646. 

May  27. — Forrett  admitted  in  KilconquJtar. — The  Prelbyterie  mett  at 
Kilconquhar  for  receaving  Mr.  David  Forrett. 

Abercrombie  and  St.  Minnance. — The  Seffion  of  Kilconquhar  approven 
the  motion  of  difmembring  the  towne  and  lands  of  St.  Minnance  from 
them,  and  adjoyning  them  to  Abercrombie,  provydeing  it  prejudice  neither 
their  minifters  manteinance,  the  fabrick  of  ther  kirk,  nor  the  patrones 
right.  Mr.  Robert  Wilkie,  being  heard  in  that  mater,  fubmitted  his  part 
to  the  Prelbyterie.  Mr.  Robert  Traill  and  Kincraig  are  appointed  to  defire 
the  Laird  of  St.  Minnance  to  put  all  things  on  his  part  to  a  point,  whither 
anent  ftipend,  manfe,  gleib,  pafturage,  or  any  thing  of  that  kynd. 

June  24. — A  letter  appointed  to  be  written  to  the  Comifiion  for  plan 
tation  of  Kirks,  earneftlie  recomending  the  vniteing  of  Abercrummie 
and  St.  Minnance  in  a  paroch,  and  Sir  James  Sandielands  defired  to  fecure 
quhat  he  conditions  to  tliat  purpofe. 

July  15. — Do&rine. — The  do&rine,  Joh.  6,  v.  62,  63,  64,  65,  delyvered 
by  Mr.  Jolme  Melvill,  being  examined,  he  was  cenfured  for  impertinent 
citation  of  Scripture,  h' ve  or  fix  feverall  tymes,  to  prove  points ;  for  vfeing 
impertinent  epithets,  and  for  indiftin6t  {peaking  in  prayer. 

September  2. — Anfiruih&r  Malignant. — The  quhilk  day  information  being 
given  to  the  Prelbyterie  againft  Johne  Anftruther,  burges  in  Anftruther- 
Eafter,  of  fundrie  groflelie  impious  and  malignant  fpeeches  vttered  by 
him,  the  Prelbyterie  appoints  him  to  be  fumond  againft  the  nixt  day  of 
ther  meeting. 

Pittenweeme,  September  14. — Anftruther. — Compeired  Johne  Anftruther, 
and  appealed  from  the  Prefbyterie  to  the  Provinciall  Affemblie.  The 
Prelbyterie,  notwithstanding  of  his  pretended  reafons  for  his  appeale,  and 
his  exceptions  againft  any  of  the  witnefies,  after  mature  deliberation,  re- 
folves  to  put  the  mater  to  a  tryell. 

The  witneffes,  being  called  and  verie  folemnlie  1'worne,  did  depone  as 
followeth.  Mr.  James  Richardfone  did  depone  as  followeth. 

1.  That  in  a  jearing  way,  calling  minifters,  monkes  and  freirs,  he  faid, 
"  Tak  vp  your  bleffed  Vnion !  by  Jefus  Chrift  the  curfedeft  Vnion  that 
ever  we  law." 

2.  That  he  faid,  minifters  had  nothing  now  to  fpeake  of,  bot  to  preach 


SEPT.  1646.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS. 


35 


of  the  troublefome  dayes,  and  ther  owne  particular,  and  to  get  great  fti- 
pends ;  "  Quhat  vengeance  ailes  them  now,  more  than  the  minifters  of 
old,  whofe  ftipends  was  but  litle,  foure  or  fyve  hundreth  merks  ?" 

3.  He  faid,  fpeaking  of  minifters,  "  O  yee  Scrybes  and  Pharifies,  woe 
be  vnto  yow,  yee  fitt  in  Mofes  feate  ;  yee  bring  no  other  thing  in  the  Kirk 
difcipline  bot  tradition  ;"  and  fwore  by  Chrift,  they  mixed  all  ther  do&rine 
with  tradition. 

4.  That  he  fwore  by  Chrift,  that  all  the  minifters  of  Scotland  were 
menfworne  and  perjured  men,  becaufe  they  had  preached  and  fworne  to 
maintaine  the  religion  as  it  was  profeffed  of  old,  and  they  had  brought  in 
a  Dire&orie  difchargeing  reading  in  churches. 

5.  That  he  prophanelie  afked,  quhat  he  could  doe,  till  the  laft  bell  on 
the  Lords  day,  bot  goe  and  drinke  a  chopping  of  wyne. 

6.  That  he  not  onlie  affirmed,  bot  horriblie  fwore,  by  Gods  wounds,  that 
all  the  minifters  were  perjured  and  menfworne  men,  and  faid  he  wold 
avow  and  maintaine  this  before  the  Prefbyterie. 

Mr.  James  Anderfone  did  depone  as  followeth. 

1.  That  he  heard  Johne  Anftruther  fpeake  of  the  Vnion  of  thir  king- 
domes  in  a  tanting  way,  and  faying,  "  O  blefled  Vnion  !"  and  that  after 
that  he  called  it  "  A  curfed  Vnion." 

2.  That  he  heard  the  faid  Johne,  fpeaking  of  minifters  ftipends,  and 
how  frugallie  fome  befor  did  live  vpon  litle  ftipends,  and  that  he  faid, 
"  What  vengeans  ailes  them  now  ?" 

3.  That  he  heard  him  fay,  "  Yee  Scribes  and  Pharifies  fitt  in  Mofes 
featte ;"  and  that  he  faid,  "  Take  heid  that  yee  mixe  not  your  do&rine 
with  your  owne  traditions." 

4.  That  he  heard  him  fweare  by  Jefus  Chrift,  that  the  minifters  were 
perjured ;  and  that  he  heard  him  difallow  the  Diredorie. 

5.  That  he  heard  him  fwear,  by  Gods  wounds,  that  the  minifters  were 
perjured  and  menfworne  men. 

The  Prefbyterie,  finding  the  fpeaches  as  deponed  to,  to  be  fo  full  of  im- 
pietie  and  Malignancie,  have  referred  the  whole  mater  to  the  Comiflion  of 
the  Kirk  to  be  judged  of. 

Januar  13,  1647. — Reftraint  of  Fornication. — The  Prelbyterie,  feriouflie 


36  THE  PRESBYTERY  APRIL  1647. 

confiddering  the  great  abounding  of  that  vyle  finne  of  vncleannes,  doe 
appoint  minifters  to  deale  earneftlie  with  magiftrates  in  burghes,  and 
gentlemen  and  Seifions  in  landward,  that  they  will  be  more  carefull  to 
put  the  A&s  of  Parliament  to  full  execution  againft  fuch  perfons. 

Januar  27. — Dijlreffed  people  of  Argyle. — This  day  the  Prelbyterie  re 
ceived  ane  letter  from  the  Comiffion  of  the  Kirk,  declareing  the  deplore- 
able  condition  of  the  poore  people  of  Argyle,  together  with  ane  Ad  of 
Parliament,  recomending  them  to  the  charitie  of  all  good  Chriftians 
within  the  kingdome.  The  Prefbyterie,  apprehending  the  great  outcrying 
this  may  produce,  to  have  a  collection  in  thefe  bounds  quher  ther  are  fo 
many  poore  widowes,  orphanes,  poore  fathers  and  mothers,  quho  lived  by 
ther  children,  to  quhom  help  was  promifed  by  the  Parliament,  and  are  yet 
negle6ted,  doe  appoint  Mr.  George  Hamilton  to  reprefent  the  fame  to  the 
Comiffion  of  the  Kirk,  and  crave  ther  advyce. 

Februar  10. — This  day  the  Prefbyterie  mett  at  Forgan  for  admiffione  of 
Mr.  Alexander  Wedderburne,  minifter  ther. 

March  1 0. —  Widowes. — Mr.  Robert  Traill  declared,  that  ther  was  no 
poffible  meanes  of  getting  any  courfe  laid  downe  by  the  Parliament  at  this 
tyme  for  the  help  of  oure  poore  widdowes,  orphanes,  old  fathers  and  mo 
thers  quho  lived  by  ther  children,  and  the  reft  quho  are  in  neceffitie  by 
the  killing  of  thefe  quho  belonged  to  them,  in  England  and  at  home. 

March  24. — Salt  pannes. — Anent  fait  pannes.  The  falters  in  Craill 
cannot  be  gotten  fo  tryed  nor  reftrained  as  they  ought,  through  the  want 
of  a  minifter.  For  Pittenweeme  pannes  they  goe  not. 

Reference  to  the  Provinciatt. — Whereas  it  is  regrated  by  the  Prefbyterie 
that  the  finne  of  drunkennes  does  greatly  abound  in  this  Shyre,  efpeciallie 
amongft  thefe  of  greater  fort,  it  is  referred  to  the  Provinciall  to  lay  downe 
fome  courfe  how  it  may  be  reftrained. 

Apryle  14. — Parties  maried  whofe  humours  cannot  aggrie. — Mr.  Robert 
Wilkie  declareing,  that  a  man  and  a  woman  latelie  maried  in  his  pa- 
roch,  whofe  humours  cannot  comply  together,  yea,  that  the  one  is  feared 
for  bodilie  harme  of  the  other,  he  is  appointed  to  vfe  all  meanes  to  informe 
them  of  the  covenant  and  oath  of  God,  quherby  they  have  bound  them- 
felves  mutuallie. 


Nov.  1647.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  37 

May  6. — Abercornes  children. — The  Prefbyterie  received  a  letter  from 
the  Comiffioners  of  the  Generall  Aflemblie,  defireing  vs  to  take  infpe&ion 
both  of  my  Lord  Paifley,1  his  attendants,  as  alib  of  his  education,  confid- 
dering  that  he  is  a  nobleman  come  of  Popifh  parents.  The  Prefbyterie 
recomends  the  care  heirof  to  the  minifters  of  St.  Andros. 

May  27. — Prejbyterie  meeting  at  Anftruther. — The  Prefbyterie  mett  at 
Anftruther  Eafter,  and  concluded  the  place  of  ther  ordinar  meeting  to  be 
ther  fo  long  as  the  Plague  continues  in  St.  Andros ;  and  refolved  to  meete 
bot  once  in  fourteene  dayes,  becaufe  of  the  danger  of  frequent  meeting. 

June  24. — Fyres  on  Midfummer-even  referred. — The  Prefbyterie  finding 
that,  notwithflanding  of  A6tes  made  againfl  the  fuperftitious  fetting  out  of 
fyres  on  Midfummer  even,  yet  it  is  ftill  pra&ifed  by  many ;  the  Prefby 
terie  refers  the  fame  to  the  Provinciall  Aflemblie. 

September  15. — Mertins  cenfurefor  putting  violent  hands  on  the  Minifter. — 
Compeired  befor  the  Prefbyterie  Agnes  Mertin,  quho  confefling  putting 
violent  hand  on  the  minifter  and  curfeing  him,  they  did  appoint  her  to  fitt 
foure  Sabbothes  in  fackecloth,  in  the  publicke  place  of  repentance.  And 
recomends  to  the  inagiftrates,  that  they  wilbe  carefull  to  inflift  fuch  civile 
punifhments  as  they  fall  find  meitt  for  fo  haynous  and  grofle  a  fault. 

Nov.  3. — Sharp  prefented  to  Craill. — The  quhilk  day,  the  Prefbyterie  re 
ceived  a  prefentation  from  the  Erie  of  Craufurd,  patron  of  the  paroch  of 
Craill,  nominateing  and  prefenting  Mr.  James  Sharp,  Regent,  to  be  minifter 
at  the  faid  kirk,  and  requyreing  the  Prefbyterie  to  enter  him  to  his  tryalls 
for  that  effed.  The  minifters  of  St.  Andros  are  appointed  to  advertife 
the  faid  Mr.  James  Sharp  to  be  prefent  the  nixt  day. 

Nov.  17. — Sharp  to  Craill. — Compeired  comiflioners  from  the  paroch 
of  Craill,  defireing  the  Prefbyterie  to  proceid  in  putting  Mr.  James  Sharp 
to  his  tryalls,  according  to  the  prefentation  given  in  the  laft  day,  and  re- 
queifting  [them]  to  accelerate  the  fame.  The  faid  Mr.  James  being  afked, 
did  fubmitt  himfelfe  to  the  Prefbyterie,  protefting  that  if  he  be  called  to 
that  charge,  thair  be  a  tymeous  provifion  of  a  helper  with  him  therin.  The 
comiflioners  from  Craill  did  vndertake  to  give  the  faid  Mr.  James  fatif- 
fadion  in  that  defire  at  the  Prefbyteries  fight.  Wherevpon,  the  Prefby- 
1  James,  Lord  Paisley,  eldest  son  of  James,  second  Earl  of  Abercorn. 


38  THE  PRESBYTERY  APRIL  1648. 

terie  did  appoint  him,  for  the  firft  part  of  his  tryall,  the  contraverfie  Dv 
Jitdice  contraverfiarum. 

December  1 . — Mr.  James  Sharp  gave  in  his  thefes  to  be  agitate  the  nixt 
day. 

December  25. — The  difcourfe  delyvered  by  Mr.  James  Sharp  on  the  con 
traverfie  De  Judice  contraverfiarum,  and  difputs  following  thervpon,  cen- 
lured  and  appro ven.  He  is  appointed  to  adde  the  nixt  day.  As  alfo,  he 
hath  affigned  to  him  that  text,  Eph.  3.  15,  16,  17,  for  ane  popular  fermon. 

December  29. — The  do&rine,  Joh.  8.  v.  1,  2,  3,  delyvered  by  Mr.  Robert 
Weyms,  and  addition  by  Mr.  James  Sharp,  cenfured  and  approven.  For 
accelerating  Mr.  James  Sharp  his  tryalls,  the  Prefbyterie  are  to  meitt 
the  morne  eight  dayes,  the  6  of  Januar,  for  hearing  his  popular  fermon. 

Januar  13, 1648. — The  Prefbyterie  mett  in  the  New  Colledge  Schooles, 
for  hearing  Mr.  James  Sharp  on  the  tongues,  in  caticheticke  queftions,  and 
chronologic ;  in  all  which  he  was  approven :  As  alfo,  he  is  fullie  approven 
by  all,  in  all  the  parts  of  his  tryalls  in  relation  to  that  charge  quhervnto 
now  he  is  called.  Mr.  James  Makgill  is  appointed  to  ferve  his  edi6t  the 
nixt  Lords  day,  and  to  return  the  anfuer  therof  to  the  minifters  of  St. 
Andros,  Mr.  John  Barron  and  Mr.  Walter  Comrie,  on  Wedinfday ;  and  if 
nothing  be  obje&ed  at  that  tyme,  the  day  of  his  admiffion  is  appointed  to 
be  this  day  fyfteen  dayes,  quher  Mr.  James  Bruce  is  to. preach. 

Januar  27. — Sharps  Admiffion. — The  Prefbyterie  mett  at  Craill  for 
admiffion  of  Mr.  James  Sharp,  minifter  ther,  quher  Mr.  James  Bruce  did 
preach. 

March  8. — Whereas  ther  is  a  fuperftitious  pra&ife  of  makeing  graves 
vpon  the  Lords  day,  quher  it  may  be  convenientlie  efchewed,  the  Prefby 
terie  doe  appoint,  that  no  graves  be  made  vpon  the  Lords  day,  bot  in  cafe 
of  urgent  neceffitie  allowed  by  the  Minifter  and  Seffion. 

Apryle  26. — Balfour. — Compeired  Andro  Balfour,  diffbbedient  to  the 
Seffion  of  Largo,  quho  confefTing  that  he  called  a  woman  in  Largo  theife, 
lyar,  he  is  appointed  either  to  prove  her  a  theife,  vtherwayes  to  fatiffie 
the  ordinance  of  the  Seffion. 

M'Attum  to  be  wriienfor. — The  Prefbyterie,  confiddering  how  necefTar  it 
is  that  fuch  as  have  the  Irifh  tongue  be  trained  at  fchooles  and  colledges, 


MAY  1648.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  39 

for  the  better  planting  of  kirks  in  the  Highlands,  and  being  certainelie  in 
formed  of  the  good  hopes  of  Zacharias  M'Allum,  fonne  to  Mr.  Archibald 
M'Allum,  that  he  is  a  quicke  youth  capable  of  learning,  and  that  his 
father  is  not  able  to  traine  vp  his  children  that  way,  doe  appoint  Mr. 
James  Wood  to  fend  for  the  faid  Zacharias  M'Allum  to  come  heir  for  that 
effe&,  and  the  Prefbyterie  are  willing  to  take  the  burden  of  his  intertain- 
ment  till  the  Provinciall  Aflemblie. 

May  17. — No  exercife  this  day,  in  regard  of  neceflar  defpatch  of  publicke 
buffines. 

Letter  from  the  Comiffioners  of  the  Generall  Affemblie. — The  quhilk  day 
the  Prefbyterie  received  a  letter  from  the  Comiffioners  of  the  Generall 
Aflemblie  :  The  tenour  quhairof  followes : — 

REVEREND  BRETHREN, 

IN  our  letter  of  the  last  of  March  to  the  Synods,  which  we  suppose  all  of  you  have  seene 
and  pervsed,  we  did  acquaint  yo,u  with  our  desires,  given  in  to  the  Honorable  Estates  of  Par 
liament  about  that  tyme,  and  since  after  some  conferences  had,  and  some  papers  interchanged, 
betuixt  ther  Lordships  and  vs  vpon  these  desires,  whilst  we  had  received  no  satisfaction  therco, 
they  wer  pleased  to  fall  vpon  the  consideration  of  the  breaches  of  the  Treatie  and  Covenant, 
and  have  resolved  to  send  demands  vnto  the  Parliament  of  England  for  reparation  therin.  One 
of  these  demands  concerning  religion,  haveing  first  voted  the  same,  without  our  advyse  and 
consent  was  sought  therto,  they  did  therafter  communicate  vnto  vs,  that  we  might  returne  our 
thoughts  thervpon.  In  ansuer  to  which,  after  some  !  of 

ther  laying  asyde  ther  former  way  of  applications,  both  to  the  King  and  the  Parliament  of 
England,  and  of  ther  encroacheing  vpon  the  liberties  of  the  Kirk  by  ther  taking  resolution  in 
that  which  concernes  religion  without  vs,  and  conceiving  the  demand  (incace  it  sould  be  re- 
fuised!)  to  be  intended  as  a  ground  of  warre,  we  delayed  to  give  any  judgement  therof  vntill 
our  former  desires  sould  be  first  satisfied.  And  withall,  intreating  that  ther  Lordships  wold 
be  pleased  to  communicate  vnto  vs  ther  resolutions  vpon  the  whole  mater,  that  we  might  sie 
that  all  things  were  so  caried  on  as  wold  contribute  for  secureing  of  Religion,  and  preserving 
the  Vnion  betuixt  the  Kingdomes.  And  therafter  did  present  vnto  ther  Lordships  ane  humble  and 
earnest  Petition,  pressing  ane  ansuer  to  our  former  desires,  and  containeing  ane  exoneration  of 
ourselves  and  of  the  Kirk  of  Scotland,  if  they  sould  refuse  to  hearken  thervnto.  Which  ther  Lord 
ships  having  considdered,  did,  after  some  dayes,  communicate  vnto  vs  a  Declaration,  containeing 
the  grounds  and  resolutions  of  the  Parliament  vpon  the  whole  mater,  together  with  another  paper, 
which  referreth  vs  to  the  Declaration  for  satisfaction  of  our  eight  desires,  containeing  ther  ansuer 
to  the  other  particulars,  which  we  had  added  to  our  Petition,  and  in  our  ansuer  vpon  the  demand 

1  Blank  in  the  record. 


40  THE  PRESBYTERY  MAY  1648. 

concerning  religion,  and  intimateth  to  vs  that  in  these  things  in  ther  Declaration  which  concerne 
religion,  they  wilbe  readie  to  heare  and  considder  the  advyse  of  the  Comission  of  the  Kirk.    Bot, 
after  peruseall  of  the  Declaration,  and  of  the  other  papers,  we  are  farre  from  finding  satisfaction 
to  our  first  desires,  or  to  the  others  particulars  afterwards  given  in  hy  vs  to  ther  Lordships, 
which,  as  we  have  alreadie  expressed  in  a  part,  by  a  paper  of  the  25  of  this  instant ;  so  we 
resolve,  in  a  verie  short  tyme,  more  fullie  to  represent  to  ther  Lordships,  and  concerning  the 
libertie  of  the  Kirk  to  be  verie  farre  prejudged  by  the  Parliaments  proceeding  to  determine  in 
those  things  which  so  neirlie  and  highlie  concerne  religion  without  the  advyse  and  consent  of 
the  Kirk,  (many  considerable  members  of  Parliament,  quho  have  beene  of  constant  integritie 
in  the  cause  of  God,  in  open  Parliament  dissenting  therfrom,  and  protesting  against  the  same 
for  the  liberties  of  the  Kirk,)  we  found  ourselves  necessitate  to  protest  for  the  preservation  of 
the  liberties  of  the  Kirk,  according  to  the  Word  of  God,  solemne  Covenants,  former  Lawes,  and 
laudable  custome  of  this  Kirk  and  Kingdome,  and  that  the  Act  of  Parliament  be  no  preparative 
for  the  future,  and  that  it  salbe  yet  frie  vnto  vs,  according  to  the  duetie  of  our  place,  and  as 
ther  salbe  cause,  to  give  our  judgement  in  ane  ecclesiasticall  way,  of  the  matcrialls  of  the  said 
Declaration,  so  farre  as  religion  is  therin  concerned,  als  frielie  as  if  ther  Lordships  had  taken  no 
resolution  thervpon.     But  we  hope  in  a  short  time  to  give  you  more  full  and  pcrfyte  intimation 
of  all  these  things,  by  sending  the  papers  themselves,  and  therfor  sould  now  have  beene  silent 
were  it  nocht  that  we  are  not  ignorant  of  the  devyses  of  malignant  and  disaffected  men,  quho 
doe  endeavour  nothing  more  diligentlie  than  (if  it  be  possible,)  by  subtile  wordes  and  faire 
speeches  on  tlie  one  syde,  and  slanderous  and  false  reports  on  the  other,  to  gaine  some  of  the 
ministrie  to  be  subservient  to  ther  designes  against  the  Kirk  and  the  cause  of  God,  knowing  that 
by  this  meanes  especiallie,  it  was  that  the  libertie  of  this  Kirk  was  betrayed,  and  the  pure  or 
dinances  of  Christ  corrupted  of  befor.     These  things  we  speake  not  as  if  we  were  efirayed  of 
any  of  you,  our  deare  brethren ;  we  hope  that  after  so  many  teares  and  temptations,  so  many 
prayers  and  supplications,  so  great  power  of  the  Lords  hand  in  delyvering  vs  from  so  great 
a  yocke  of  bondage,  and  after  so  many  vowes  and  promises,  everie  minister  within  the  land  will 
abhorre  to  be  accessorie  to  any  thing  that  may  promove  the  purposes  of  these  quho  studie  to 
vndermyne  the  worke  of  God.    Nay,  these  many  Letters  to  ourselves,  and  Supplications  to  the 
Parliament  from  many  Synods  and  Presbyteries,  as  they  are  vnto  vs  mater  of  much  refreshing 
in  the  midst  of  many  difficulties  and  straites,  quherwith  God  is  pleased  to  exercise  vs,  so  we 
take  them  for  evidences  of  the  stedfastnes  of  these  from  quhom  they  have  come :   And  albeit, 
all  have  not  had  the  opportunitie  to  expresse  themselves  that  way,  yet  we  make  no  question 
of  ther  constancie,  and  that  they  wilbe  readie  to  witnes  ther  affection  to  the  cause  of  God,  as 
they  sail  sie  need.     Bot  as  fellow  labourers  quho  are  employed  with  you  in  the  same  worke 
of  the  Lord,  we  give  you  warneing  of  the  danger,  and  stirre  you  vp  to  be  earnest  with  God  in 
prayer  and  supplication  for  your  owne  stedfastnes,  so  to  give  faithfull  and  tvmeous  warneing 
vnto  all  with  quhom  yee  have  to  doe  against  all  the  snares  and  tentations  of  these  tymes  ;  and 
that  yee  may  now  so  carie  yourselves  in  all  things,  that  quhen  the  Lord  salbe  pleased  to  bring 
his  servants  together  in  a  Generall  Assemblie,  all  of  thame  may  come  thither  furnished  with 


MAY  1648.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  41 

the  spirit  of  integritie,  vnitie,  and  zeale,  that  so  the  boasteing  of  adversaries  may  be  put  to 
silence,  and  ther  hopes  blasted,  quhen  they  sail  sie  vs  to  be  of  one  mynd,  and  heare  vs  speake 
the  same  thing,  for  carieing  on  the  worke  of  the  Gospel],  and  obviateing  everie  danger  that 
threatens  the  same  at  home  and  from  abroad ;  which,  as  we  trust,  will  be  the  eudeavore  of  all 
Presbyteries,  so  it  is  the  earnest  desire  and  prayer  of 

Your  affectioned  brethren  the  Comissioners  of  the  Generall  Assemblie. 

Sic  subscribitur.  Mr.  ROBERT  DOWGLAS,  Moderatour. 

Edinburgh,  28  Apryle  1648. 

Postscript, — It  is  evident  from  the  premisses,  how  great  and  many  difficulties  the  Kirk  of 
God  in  this  land  is  brought  vnder,  by  reason  of  the  sinnes  and  provocations  of  his  people ;  as 
also,  how  deepe  a  revolting  from  the  cause  of  God  many  are  come  to,  and  quhat  cause  we 
have  to  feare  the  overturneing  of  all  that  God  has  done  for  vs  ;  therefor,  we  have  resolved  that 
ther  sould  be  a  fast  keeped  in  all  the  Congregations  of  this  land  the  last  Sabboth  of  May,  for 
intreating  the  Lord  for  mercie  and  help  in  this  day  of  our  great  neid,  which  we  desire  you 
keepe  in  your  severall  congregations.  We  doubt  nocht,  yee  wilbe  carefull  that  such  of  your 
number  as  are  of  this  Comission  keepe  the  next  quarter  meeting,  the  last  Wednisday  of  May. 

Sic  subr-  Mr.  ROBERT  DOWGLAS,  Moderator. 

Edinburgh    1  May  1648. 

Supplication  to  the  Comittee  of  the  Shyre. — The  Prelbyterie,  confiddering 
that  to  morrow  the  Comittee  of  Warre  of  this  fhyre  are  to  receive  orders 
from  the  honorable  Eftates  of  Parliament,  tending  to  engadgement  in 
warre,  doe  find  themfelves  oblidged  in  confcience  to  fupplicate  the  faid 
honorable  Comittee ;  the  tenour  quhairof  followis  : 

VNTO  THE  RIGHT  HONORABLE  THE  COMITTEE  OF  WARRE  OF  THE  SHYRE  OF  FYFE,  THE  HUMBLE 

PETITION  OF  THE  PRESBYTERIE  OF  ST.  ANDROS  ; 
SHEWETH, 

THAT  quheras  the  happie  successe  in  promoveing  the  ends  of  our  National  Covenant,  and  of 
the  Solemne  League  and  Covenant,  hathe  alwayes  flowed  from  the  firm  vnion  of  counsell  and 
endeavoures  of  State  and  Church  joyntlie,  we  cannot  bot  conceive  great  feares  of  the  imminent 
dangers  to  the  cause  of  God  within  this  land,  that  engadgeing  in  warre  is  so  farre  advanced  by 
the  high  and  honorable  Court  of  Parliament,  the  just  desires  of  the  Comissioners  of  the  Gene 
rall  Assemblie,  and  of  the  most  parts  of  the  Provinciall  Synods  within  this  kingdome,  being  as 
yet  altogether  vnsatisfied ;  We  therfor  make  this  our  addresse  vnto  your  Honours,  earnestlie 
intreating  you,  in  the  name  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Chryst,  that,  according  to  your  wonted  and  ex- 
emplarie  zeale  in  the  cause  of  God,  yee  wilbe  pleased,  in  this  tyme  of  neid,  to  interpose  your  most 
earnest  supplication  to  the  high  and  honorable  Court  of  Parliament  and  ther  Comittee,  that  ther 
be  no  further  progresse  toward  a  warre,  till  courses  be  aggried  vpon  for  secureing  Religion  and 

F 


42  THE  PRESBYTERY  MAY  1648. 

suppressing  Malignants,  aswell  as  Sectaries ;  which  we  humble  conceive  is  not  as  yet  done. 
Your  Honours  have  reason  with  vs  to  insist  in  pressing  the  peaceable  way  of  treating  with  the 
Parliament  of  England,  befor  violent  wayes  be  attempted,  the  event  quherof  is  so  vncertaine  ; 
first,  because  the  honorable  Court  of  Parliament  of  this  kingdome,  in  there  late  Declaratione, 
have  declared  ther  resolution  not  to  engadgc  in  warre  till  the  lawfulnes  and  necessitie  therof 
be  cleared,  so  that  all  well  affected  (among  them  we  constantlie  are,)  be  satisfied  in  ther  con 
sciences.  As  also,  because  the  Houses  of  Parliament  in  England  are  so  farre  advanced  toward 
satisfactorie  answers  to  ther  demands,  as  appeares  by  ther  late  votes. 

Mr.  Robert  Blair,  Mr.  James  Bruce,  and  Sir  James  Lumifdell,  appointed 
to  prefent  the  fame. 

May  24. — Supplication  ofthejhyre  to  be  approval  and  infert  inSeJJion  bookea. 
The  Prefbyterie,  being  certainelie  informed  of  the  paines  taken  be  fome 
in  procureing  fubfcriptions  to  a  proteftation  againft  the  humble  Supplica 
tion  of  the  Comittee  of  Warre,  by  Prefbyteries  and  Burghes  of  this  fhyre, 
and  the  Vniverfitie  of  St.  Andros,  doe  appoint  brethren  to  be  carefull 
to  acquaint  ther  people  of  the  evills  heirof ;  as  alfo,  that  they  crave  the 
confent  and  approbation  of  the  feverall  Seffions  to  the  humble  Petition  of 
this  Prefbyterie  to  the  honorable  Comittee  of  Warre  in  this  fhyre,  and 
that  it  may  be  regiftrate  in  the  feverall  Seffion  bookes  of  this  Prefbyterie, 
and  report  ther  diligence  heirin. 

May  31. — Letter  to  tJte  Parliament. — The  Prefbyterie  doe  appoint  ther 
reverend  and  welbeloved  brethren,  Mr.  David  Forrett  and  Mr.  Robert 
Bennett,  to  prefent  to  the  honorable  Eftates  of  Parliament,  the  Anfuer 
condifcended  vpon  by  vs  to  ther  Letter,  of  the  date  Edinburgh  May  11 
1648 ;  the  tenour  of  which  Anfuer  folio wes  : 

OUR  VERIE  NOBLE  AND  MOST  HONORABLE  LORDS, 

IF  it  had  bene  within  the  reach  of  our  power  conscionablie  to  have  followed  the  direction 
of  your  Letter,  that  had  beene,  we  confesse,  the  only  desireable  ansuer  to  the  same ;  but  seeing 
the  sinnes  of  the  land  hath  procured  this  mist  vpon  publicke  counsells,  that  we  cannot  sie  how 
to  act  as  your  Lordships  direct,  least  therfor  our  silence  sould  be  misinterpreted,  we  found 
ourselves  oblidged  in  all  humilitie,  in  the  feare  of  the  Lord,  to  returne  this  Ansuer  to  your 
Lordships. 

Who  these  are  that  hate  his  Majesties  person,  and  being  lovers  of  Sectaries  within  this 
land,  doe  cast  aspersions  or  raise  calumnies  vpon  your  Lordships  proceedings,  we  professe  vn- 
fainedlie  we  know  not,  and  if  we  knew  it,  wold  be  readie  in  our  way  to  censure  them ;  bot  we 
acknowledge  ther  be  many,  (among  quhom  we  professe  our  selves,)  quho  heartilie  approve 


MAY  1648.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  43 

Monarchical!  governement  in  his  Majesties  person  and  posteritie,  and  hateing  Sectaries  with  a 
perfect  hatred,  are  leadened  with  reproaches  and  calumnies  be  Malignants  and  ther  favourers, 
for  ther  constancie  and  zeale  in  the  cause  of  God,  and  yet  are  nocht  satisfied  in  your  Lord 
ships  wayes,  as  it  is  brieflie  expressed  in  the  joynt  Petition  of  this  Shyre,  and  largelie  sett  foorth 
in  the  Representation  of  the  Commissioners  of  the  Generall  Assemblie.  Hardlie  could  any 
thing  on  earth  so  rejoice  our  hearts,  as  the  assurance  that  your  Lordships  preferred  the  preser 
vation  of  Religion  to  all  earthlie  things,  and  were  promoveing  all  the  ends  of  the  Covenant,  and 
complying  with  the  desires  of  the  Comissioners  of  the  Generall  Assemblie,  as  your  Lordships 
professe,  which  we  take  as  a  testimonie  from  your  Lordships  justifieing  ther  desires  as  lawfull 
and  necessarie ;  and  it  salbe  our  constant  prayers  to  God,  that  maters  may  be  so  caried  on  by 
your  Lordships  to  the  great  joy  of  all  the  godlie  in  the  land,  and  disappointment  of  Malignants, 
whose  insolencies  are  growen  to  a  great  hight  by  the  too  great  appearance  of  the  contrarie.  As 
for  that  part  of  your  Lordships  Letter,  quherin,  with  the  clearing  of  your  owne  proceedings, 
as  no  wayes  prejudiciall  to  the  liberties  of  the  Kirk,  heavie  imputations  are  laid  vpon  others, 
we  both  wish  your  Lordships  way  had  given  reall  evidences  how  farre  yee  were  from  taking 
ane  antecedent  judgment  in  maters  of  religion ;  and  withall,  we  professe  our  detestation  of 
that  Episcopall  disease  of  authoritative  meddleing  with  civile  affairs.  Yet  this  we  acknowledge, 
that,  according  to  the  latitude  of  the  Word  of  God,  (which  is  our  theame,)  we  are  allowed  to 
treate,  in  ane  ecclesiasticall  way,  of  greatest  and  smallest  affaires,  from  the  Kings  throne  that 
sould  be  established  in  righteousnes,  to  the  merchands  ballance  that  sould  be  vsed  in  faithful  - 
nes.  We  know  no  church  judicatorie  that  makes  the  Kings  negative  voyce  in  Parliament  ther 
theame  to  dispute ;  but  this  we  must  hold,  that  all  Church  judicatories  sould  take  great  care 
that  neither  Princes  nor  Parliaments,  whether  affirmative  or  negative  voyce,  prove  prejudicall 
to  Religion,  the  cause  of  God,  and  solemne  Covenants.  Your  Lordships  citeing  that  Act 
of  Parliament  in  the  yeer  1584,  calls  to  our  mynd  the  woefull  posture  of  affaires  at  that 
tyme,  both  in  State  and  Church,  by  a  dominireing  faction  that  oppressed  the  Judicatories 
of  the  Kirk  so  farre  that  ther  Registers  were  detained  from  them,  and  some  parts  therof 
torne  out,  till  the  Lord,  in  great  mercie  to  his  covenanted  people,  quicklie  dispelled  that 
cloud :  And  thogh  it  be  certaine  that  the  Act  cited  was  intended  at  the  by,  for  reestablish 
ing  of  Prelacie,  then  ruined  by  the  Nationall  Covenant,  thrie  yeirs  befor  sworne  and  subscry- 
ved,  yet  excluding  the  Prelates  from  being  one  of  the  thrie  Estates  (as  now  we  hope  they  are 
eternallie  excluded),  we  heartilie  close  with  the  Act,  and  say  further,  That  the  impugneing, 
whither  of  Princes,  or  Parliaments,  or  Kirks  just  authoritie,  is  a  grosse  and  fearfull  breach  of 
our  solemne  Covenants,  and  deserves  the  wrath  of  God,  and  damnation,  in  a  high  degrie.  But 
withall  we  vnderstand  that  ther  is  a  vaste  difference  betweene  power  or  authoritie,  and  the 
proceedings  and  exercise  therof.  The  one  we  are  sworne  not  only  to  impugne,  bot  to  man- 
taine  ;  the  other  we  may  and  ought,  by  the  judgment  of  discretion,  to  examine,  and  if  we  find 
them  opposite  to  the  word  of  God,  and  prejudiciall  to  his  cause,  ought  to  obey  God  rather  then 
men  vpon  quhatever  perrill.  We  are  remitted  for  full  satisfaction  by  your  Lordships  to  the 
Declaration  sent  to  vs,  which  we  have  dilgentlie  red,  and  seriouslie  pondered,  and  we  cannot 


44  THE  PRESBYTERY  JUNE  1648. 

find  tberby  a  course  laid  downe  for  the  preservation  and  the  propagation  of  Religion,  and  sup 
pressing  of  Malignants ;  for  we  sie  not  so  much  as  propositions  to  be  presented,  let  be  securitie 
man  tai  nod  from  his  Majestic,  till  he  be  in  the  frie  exercise  of  his  royall  power,  and  so  als  frie  to 
refuse  as  to  grant,  which  how  dangerous  it  is  to  religion  his  Majesties  mynd  and  professed  pur 
pose,  even  in  this  his  low  condition,  concerning  Prelacie  and  Liturgie  being  sufficientlie  knowen, 
we  leave  it  to  your  Lordships  to  considder ;  how  dangerous  also  it  is,  that  Malignants,  arise- 
ing  in  armes,  and  having  bot  the  cunning  to  conceale  ther  intention,  sail  no  wayes  be  opposed, 
but  rather  cherished  and  strengthened,  all  quho  sufficientlie  remembers  ther  Covenant  may 
evidentlie  sie.  Notwithstanding  all  this,  that  the  cause  of  Engadgement  remains  the  same, 
(which  is  your  Honours  expression,)  we  professe,  in  all  humble  respect  to  your  Lordships, 
as  in  the  sight  of  the  Searcher  of  Hearts,  we  cannot  sie,  vnles  we  resolve  together  to  forsake 
our  reason,  conscience,  and  Covenant.  The  case  thus  standing,  we  must  of  neccssitie,  with 
all  humilitie  and  fervencie,  intreat  your  most  honourable  Lordships  not  to  exact  or  expect  from 
vs,  that  we  sail,  by  preaching,  prayer,  or  any  other  meanes,  stirre  vp  the  people  to  this  expe 
dition.  The  most  high  and  only  wise  God,  befor  quhom  all  nations  are  as  the  dust  of  the 
ballance,  enspyre  the  hearts  of  our  confederate  neighbours  to  yield  to  that  which  is  right  in  his 
sight,  and  perswade  your  Lordships  to  accept  the  same  :  Or  if,  in  his  just  displeasure  against  the 
sinnes  of  both  lands,  ther  be  a  necessitie  of  engadging  in  a  woefull  warre,  grant  that  the  throne 
of  Christ  be  established  in  these  lands,  and  our  Kings  throne,  as  a  part  of  the  footestoole  therof, 
and  that  all  the  enemies  of  both  be  effectuallie  and  spedilie  suppressed.  So  pray 

Your  Lordships  Servants,  obedient  in  Christ,  the  Presbyterie  of  St. 
Andros,  by  our  Moderator,  at  our  command, 

-Sic  subr.  SAMUELL  RUTHEBFUIKD,  Moderator. 

St.  Andros,  May  24,  1 648. 

June  14. — A£t  of  the  ComiJJioners  of  the  Generatt  Aflemblie. — The  quhilk 
day  the  Prefbyterie  received  ane  A6t  of  the  Comiffioners  of  the  Generall 
Aflemblie,  feriouflie  recomending  to  Prelbyteries  to  take  fpeciall  notice 
and  tryell  of  everie  brothers  cariage  in  the  publicke  buflines  at  this  tyme, 
that  it  may  be  found,  quho  doe  not  declare  themfelves  againft  the  prefent 
Engadgement,  nor  joyne  with  the  brethren  in  ther  common  refolutions 
againft  it,  nor  give  publicke  information  to  the  people  of  the  vnlawfulnen 
therof,  they  may  be  referred  to  the  next  Generall  Aflemblie.  And  if  any 
have  declared  themfelves  for  it,  that  they  be  prefentlie  cenfured.  The  whole 
brethren  prefent  declared,  That  they  had  preached  againft  the  fame,  and 
were  convinced  in  ther  confcience,  both  of  the  vnneceflarines  and  vnlaw- 
fulnes  of  the  fame  at  this  tyme.  Only  Mr.  Johne  Barron  declared,  that 
as  yet  he  hes  neither  preached  for  it  nor  againft  it,  and  that  he  is  not  as 


OCT.  1648.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  45 

yet  convinced  of  the  vnlawfulnes  therof :  he  defires  a  tyme  to  be  reiblved 
ere  he  give  a  final  anfwer. — Granted. 

June  21. — Again/I  the  Band  of  the  late  Parliament. — The  Prelbyterie 
having  feene  and  confiddered  the  Band  or  A&  of  the  late  Parliament, 
appointed  by  the  Comittee  of  Eftates  to  be  fubfcryved  by  all  the  fubjefts 
of  this  kingdome,  and  finding  the  fame  much  prejudiciall  to  the  fettling 
and  eftablifhing  of  Religion  in  thefe  kingdomes,  and  contrar  to  the  Solemne 
League  and  Covenant,  doe  appoint  brethren  in  ther  places  and  callings  to 
be  carefull  to  informe  the  people  committed  vnto  them,  that  they  be  not 
enfnared  by  any  fpecious  pretences  to  fubfcryve  the  fame. 

July  5. — Nevay,  Regent. — The  Prefbyterie  being  informed  that  Mr. 
David  Nevay,  Regent  in  St.  Leonards  Colledge,  hath  vented  diverfe 
things  contrar  to  the  eftablifhed  order  of  this  Kirk,  as,  namelie :  1 .  That 
the  Church  conftitutions  have  no  ftrength,  and  are  not  obligatorie,  vntill 
they  be  confirmed  by  the  civill  magiftrate.  2.  That  Eraftians  deferve  not 
to  be  called  Sedaries.  He  is  appointed  to  be  fummond  to  compeir  befor 
the  Prefbyterie  this  day  15  dayes. 

Reference  to  the  Generatt  Affemblie. — The  Prelbyterie  does  recomend 
to  ther  Comiffioners,  that  they  recomend  to  the  Generall  Aflemblie  the  ap 
pointing  the  Covenant  to  be  fubfcryved  throughout  the  kingdome. 

July  11. — Patons  admijjion. — The  Prefbyterie  mett  at  Kemback  for 
admiflion  of  Mr.  David  Paton,  minifter  ther. 

Auaujl  2. — M'Allum. — The  Prefbyterie  doe  appoint  Mr.  James  Wood 
and  Mr.  Andro  Honyman  to  aggrie  with  fome  in  St.  Andros  for  Zacharias 
M'Allum  (quhom  they  appointed  to  be  writen  for)  his  buird,  till  the  Pro- 
vinciall  Aflemblie. 

October  11. — Ayton. — Compeired  Mr.  William  Ayton,  quho  being  ac- 
cufed,  if  ever  he  faid,  that  he  repented  his  fubfcryveing  the  Solemne 
League  and  Covenant,  and  that  he  called  it  a  Band,  and  faid,  If  he  had 
it  he  fould  tramp  it  vnder  his  feete  ;  confefles  that  he  faid,  he  repented  his 
fubfcription  therof;  bot  denyed  the  reft.  The  Prefbyterie  being  informed 
that  Mr.  Williame  Tulliedaffe  and  Mr.  Gilbert  Murray  were  prefent  the 
tyme  quhen  he  fpake  thefe  things,  and  being  prefent,  were  defired  if  they 
wold  declare  quhat  they  knew  therin  prefentlie ;  quho  confenting,  and  he 


46  THE  PRESBYTERY  DEC.  1648. 

alledging  nothing  againft  them,  being  fworne  to  declare  the  truth,  did  de 
pone  as  followes. 

Mr.  William  Tulliedaffe  deponed,  that  Mr.  William  Ayton  being  rea- 
foning  with  fome  ftudents,  (of  quhom  he  was  one,)  they  demanded  of  him, 
If  he  had  fubfcry ved  the  band  appointit  to  be  fubfcryved  by  the  late  Par 
liament  ?  He  anfwered,  he  never  fubfcryved  any  band  bot  ane,  quhen  he 
was  at  St.  Leonards  Colledge,  and  he  repented  his  fubfcription  therof,  and 
if  he  had  that  band  he  wold  ryve  it.  It  being  replyed,  that  nothing  of 
publicke  concernment  was  fubfcryved  at  that  tyme  in  the  Colledge  bot  the 
Solemne  League  and  Covenant.  He  anfwered,  That  fame  was  it ;  and  re- 
peited  the  former  wordes. 

Mr.  Gilbert  Murray  deponed,  he  heard  him  fpeake  malignantlie  againft 
the  Solemne  League  and  Covenant ;  bot  did  not  remember  the  particular 
expreflions  he  vied,  only  that  he  called  the  Solemne  League  and  Cove 
nant  a  Band,  and  that  he  faid  he  repented  his  fubfcry veing  therof. 

November  1. — Ayton. — The  Prefbyterie  confiddering  feriouflie  quhat 
Mr.  Ayton  hath  confefled,  and  quhat  is  clearlie  proven  againft  him, 
doe  judge  it  to  be  grofle  malignancie,  and  a  breach  of  Covenant ;  bot  he 
not  being  fenfible  of  the  finfulnes  and  guiltines  therof,  the  Prefbyterie  re- 
ferres  his  cenfure,  and  appoints  Mrs.  Samuell  Rutherfurd,  James  Wood, 
and  Andro  Honyman,  to  conferre  with  him  heiranent. 

December  7. — Newton. — Compeired  befor  the  Prefbyterie  Sir  Johne 
Leflie  of  Newton,  one  of  the  Senators  of  the  Colledge  of  Juftice, 
quho  denyed  that  he  did  contribute  for  the  Colledge  of  Juftice  ther  Regi 
ment  in  the  late  Engadgement  vnder  the  conduct  of  Duke  Hamilton.  For 
his  fonnes,  quho  wer  commanders  in  that  fervice,  he  alledged,  that  one  of 
them  being  vpon  fervice  formerlie,  and  the  other  come  to  yeirs  of  difcre- 
tion,  they  wold  not  be  ruled  by  him.  Confefled  that  he  adhered  to  a  Pro- 
teftation  at  Couper  againft  ane  Supplication  aggried  vpon  by  the  Comittee 
of  Warre  to  the  Parliament,  for  which  he  profefled  greife.  All  which 
things  confiddered,  and  his  cafe  applied  to  the  Ad  of  the  Comiflioners  of 
the  Generall  Aflemblie,  and  ther  explanation,  the  Prefbyterie  did  debarre 
him  from  renewing  the  Solemne  League  and  Covenant,  receaving  the  fa- 
crament  of  the  Lords  Supper,  or  having  any  power  or  voyce  in  any  of  the 
Judicatories  of  the  Kirk  till  the  nixt  Generall  Aflemblie. 


DEC.  1648.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  47 

December  13. — The  draught  of  the  Declaration  appointed  to  be  fubfcry- 
ved  by  thefe  quho  fubfcryved  the  Proteftation,  was  red  and  appro ven. 
The  tenour  quherof  followes. 

Copie  of  the  Declaration  again/I  the  Protejlation. — Wee  vnderfubfcryvers 
being  now  convinced  in  our  confciences  of  the  vnlawfulnes  and  finfulnes  of 
the  late  Engadgement  againft  the  kingdome  of  England,  vnder  the  conduft 
of  Duke  Hamilton,  as  a  moft  foule  and  haynous  breach  and  violation  of  our 
Solemne  League  and  Covenant,  according  to  the  many  and  frequent  tefti- 
monies  given  againft  the  fame,  both  by  declarations  of  the  Church,  and 
the  faithfull  preaching  of  the  minifters  of  Chrift,  whofe  wordes  the  Lord 
lies  confirmed  by  the  juft  and  vnparalelled  ftroke  of  his  judgement  vpon  it ; 
and  being  fenfible  how  great  a  guiltines  we  have  drawn  vpon  ourfelves, 
in  being  accefibrie  to  the  promo veing  and  advancement  of  the  faid  En 
gadgement  by  joyneing  in  and  fubfcryveing  a  Proteftation  made  at  Couper 
againft  a  moft  humble  Supplication  of  the  Comittee  of  Warre,  all  the 
Prelbyteries,  the  moft  part  of  the  Burro  we  s  of  this  ihyre,  and  the  Univer- 
fitie  of  St.  Andros,  given  in  to  the  Parliament,  humblie  defireing  that  no 
engadgement  in  warre  fould  be  vndertaken,  vntil  all  amicable  and  peace 
able  wayes  of  aggriement  with  England  fould  be  eflayed,  fecuritie  had  for 
religion,  and  other  juft  defires  of  the  Church  fatiffied  ; — Doe  heirby  fincere- 
He  declare  our  deepe  fenfe  and  heartie  forrow  for  our  faid  guiltines,  vtterlie 
diffallowing,  renounceing  and  detefting  the  faid  Proteftation,  and  our  fub- 
fcription  therof ;  and  doe  promife,  by  the  grace  of  God,  that  for  all  tyme 
comeing  we  fall  adhere  more  clofelie  and  conftantlie  to  our  Covenant, 
and  keepe  ourfelves  from  all  courfes  prejudiciall  to  the  ends  therof;  and 
finallie,  more  confcionablie  to  hearken  to  the  faithfull  warnings  of  the 
fervants  of  God  from  his  word.  In  witnes  quherof,  we  have  fubfcryved 
thefe  prefents  with  our  hands.1 

December  19. — Malignant  Women. — The  Prefbyterie  confiddering  how 

1  A  great  number  of  all  ranks  were  at  this  time  brought  before  the  Presbytery  for  their  ac 
cession  by  word  or  deed  to  the  "  Unlawful  Engagement/'  and  received  sentence  according  to 
their  degrees  of  guilt.  Those  who  were  debarred  from  the  Communion,  &c.  were  afterwards 
received  into  the  bosom  of  the  Church,  upon  declaring  their  repentance  in  the  presence  of  the 
Congregation,  and  subscribing  this  Declaration. 


48  THE  PRESBYTERY  JAN.  1649. 

fcandalous  it  fould  be  to  admit t  women  to  fweare  the  Solemne  League 
and  Covenant,  or  to  the  Communion,  quho  are  knowen  to  be  malignant- 
lie  affe&ed,  for  removeing  quherof  it  is  ordained  that  minifters  in  ther 
feverall  congregations  try  anent  fuch  women.  And  quher  the  fcandall  is 
publicke,  and  proofe  therof  cleare,  fuch  women,  before  they  be  admitted  to 
the  Covenant  or  Communion,  are  appointed  to  give  declaration  of  ther 
repentance  for  that  finne  in  publicke  befor  the  congregation.  And  quher 
the  fcandall  is  not  fo  publicke,  nor  particulars  fo  clearlie  knowen,  Minif 
ters  are  appointed  to  deale  with  fuch  in  private,  to  bring  them  to  a  fenfe 
of  that  finne,  and  accordinglie  to  accept  or  debarre  them  from  the  Cove 
nant  and  Communion. 

Januar  31,  1649. — Cambo. — The  quhilk  day,  Sir  Patrik  Myrton  of 
Cambo  did  prefent  a  petition  fubfcryved  by  him,  declareing  forrow  and 
greife  for  his  acceffion  to  the  late  vnlawfull  Engadgement,  craveing  God 
pardon  for  his  finne  heirin,  promifeing  by  the  Lords  afiiftance  to  walke 
more  circumfpe&lie  and  watchfullie  in  all  tyme  comeing,  earneftlie  defire- 
ing  vpon  his  repentance  to  be  admitted  to  the  Covenant  and  Communion  : 
Which  things  feriouflie  confiddered,  the  Prefbyterie  did  appoint  him  to 
make  publicke  declaration  of  his  repentance  befor  the  congregation,  and 
to  fubfcryve  the  Declaration  again  ft  the  Proteftation,  and  therafter  to  be 
admitted  to  the  Covenant,  and  to  receive  the  facrament  of  the  Lords  Supper. 

Rankeilor. — Thomas  Rankielor  in  St.  Andros  called,  compeired  not. 
Thefe  things  being  found  to  be  clearlie  proven  befor  the  Seffion  of  St. 
Andros  againft  him  :  That  he  faid,  that  it  was  better  for  vs  quhen  we 
lived  under  Prelacie  than  now,  for  then  we  payed  but  one  taxation  in  the 
yeir,  but  now  we  pay  monthlie ;  That  the  King  defired  but  thrie  Bifhops 
in  England,  quhilk  was  very  reafonable ;  That  he  wold  not  goe  out  to 
fight  for  minifters,  nor  no  other  quho  wold  bidde  him ;  and  that  he  faid, 
The  fubfcryveing  of  the  Covenant  brought  ane  vengeance  vpon  the  land. 
The  Preflbyterie  did  judge  thefe  things  to  be  grofs  malignancie,  and  doe 
debarre  him  from  takeing  the  Covenant,  or  receiving  the  facrament  of  the 
Lords  Supper,  till  he  be  made  fenfible  of  his  giltines ;  and  being  made 
fenfible  therof,  is  appointed  to  make  declaration  of  his  repentance  in  the 
publicke  place  therof  in  fackecloth. 


AUG.  1649.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  49 

March  28. — Stipends  and  number  of  Communicants. — The  Prefby- 
terie  having  vfed  diligence  for  getting  the  ftipends  of  the  feverall  minil- 
ters  in  ther  bounds,  and  the  number  of  communicants,  the  particulars  ther- 
in  not  being  as  yet  exadlie  done  by  everie  one,  the  reft  is  referred  till 
after  the  Provinciall  Affemblie. 

Apryle  25. — The  quhilk  day  the  Prefbyterie  did  admitt  my  Lord  Bal- 
carras  to  the  renewing  of  the  Solemne  League  and  Covenant,  quho  did 
folemnelie  fweare  and  fubfcryve  the  fame  befor  them. 

May  2. — [Mr.  Thomas  Wood,  minifter  at  Ferrie  Partoncraig,  dimits  his 
charge  on  account  of  bad  health.] 

June  28. — Highland  Boyes. — The  Prefbyterie  doe  appoint  everie  brother 
to  delyver  to  Mr.  James  Wood  the  fourtie  fhillings  appointed  to  be  paid 
for  intertaineing  Highland  boyes  at  fchooles. 

Auaujl  1. — Abercromby. — The  quhilk  day,  ther  was  repreiented  to  the 
Prefbyterie  grofle  mifcariages  committed  by  my  Lord  Abercrombie,  in 
ftriking  ane  elder  and  the  kirk  bedell  in  that  paroch,  for  warneing  his 
Ladie  to  compeir  befor  the  Seffion  of  Falkland ;  quhilk  confiddered,  the 
Prefbyterie  doe  appoint  him  to  be  fummond  to  compeir  befor  the  Prefby 
terie  this  day  fyftein  dayes,  for  thefe  and  his  fcandalous  intemperance, 
and  other  fcandalous  mifcariages.  And,  in  the  mean  tyme,  that  the  Sef 
fion  of  Abercromby  may  juftlie  delay  to  vfe  any  further  fumonds  againft 
my  Ladie,  violence  being  offered  and  done  to  the  meffinger,  till  fome  other 
courfe  be  advyfed  vpon  for  fumonding  her. 

Auaujl  8. — Civile  Courts  for  Ecclejiajlicke  maters. — The  Prefbyterie  does 
feriouflie  recomend  to  minifters  and  feffions  that  they  be  carefull  to  efta- 
blifh  the  civill  Courts  for  ecclefiafticke  maters  in  ther  feverall  paroches,  and 
carefullnes  in  trying  ther  diligence  in  thefe  things  recom ended  to  them. 

Augttft  15. — Aft  for  putting  children  to  Schooles. — The  Prefbyterie  being- 
informed  that  diverfe  parents,  even  in  thefe  places  quher  fchooles  are 
fettled,  doe  not  put  ther  children  to  fchooles,  doe  appoint  minifters,  in 
vifiteing  families,  to  take  notice  quhat  children  are  in  everie  familie  fitt 
to  be  put  to  fchoole,  and  to  vrge  the  parents  to  it,  and  incace  it  be  not 
done,  that  they  complain  of  ther  negleft  heirin  to  the  feffion ;  and  if 
feffions  omitt  to  vrge  them  to  it,  that  it  be  recomended  to  the  Prefbyterie. 

G 


50 


THE  PRESBYTERY 


DEC.  1649. 


Ll 

^ 


s 


) 


0> 


\ 


K) 


September  12. — Abercrombie. — After  the  Prefbyterie  had  fent  brethren 
to  conferre  with  my  Lord  Abercrombie,  anent  his  beateing  the  Elder  of 
that  Seflion,  and  the  kirk  beddell  in  executeing  his  office,  and  anent  his 
frequent  excefle  in  drunkennes,  he  compeired  himfelfe,  and  did  confeffe 
frequent  groffe  intemperance,  and  profeffed  willingnes  to  fubmitt  himfelfe 
to  the  Prefbyterie  for  his  fcandall  therin.  As  for  the  flrikeing  of  the 
Elder  and  Kirk  beddell,  he  acknowledges  he  did  beate  them,  bot  not  in 
relation  to  execution  of  Kirk  laues ;  and  promifed  to  be  carefull  to  for- 
beare  the  lyke  in  all  tyme  comeing.  As  alfo,  he  did  promife  and  vnder- 
take  to  the  Prefbyterie,  that  his  Ladie  fall  goe  to  the  Seffion  of  Falkland, 
and  ther  clear  herfelfe  of  that  fcandall  alledged  againft  her,  and  to  pro 
duce  a  teftimonie  therof  from  the  minifter  of  Falkland,  befor  the  enfewing 
Provinciall  Affemblie.  The  Prefbyterie  did  lykewayes  admonifh  him  for 
his  fcandallous  abfenting  himfelfe  from  Gods  worfhip  in  his  owne  congre 
gation,  and  for  intertaineing  ill  and  fcandalous  companie  ;  both  quhilk  he 
promifed  to  amend.  He  did  lykewayes  prefent  a  fubfcryved  paper,  de- 
clareing  that  he  had  now  a  great  fenfe  of  the  finfulnes  of  the  late  vnlaw- 
full  Enga'dgement,  and  of  his  finfulnes  in  acceflion  thervnto,  humblie  de- 
fireing,  feeing  he  is  fhortlie  to  goe  aff  the  kingdome,  he  may  be  admitted 
to  declare  himfelfe  publicklie  in  thefe  things,  and  fo  be  reconciled  with  the 
Kirk  of  God  and  his  people  in  this  land.  All  which  things  feriouflie 
confiddered,  the  Prefbyterie,  to  convince  him  that  it  is  not  his  fhame  be 
for  the  world  they  are  feeking,  bot  his  good,  that  he  may  turn  from  the 
evill  of  his  wayes  and  doings  to  the  Lord,  doe  appoint  him  to  be  wifelie 
and  gravelie  admonifhed,  on  Sonday  come  eight  dayes,  in  his  owne  paroch 
kirk,  for  all  thefe  forementioned  finnes,  and  mainlie  for  his  a&ivitie  in  the 
late  finfull  Engadgement ;  and  he,  profeffing  his  griefe  and  forrow  for  all 
thefe,  and  promifeing  to  behave  himfelfe  better  in  all  tyme  comeing,  is  to 
be  received  and  appointed  to  fubfcryve  the  Declaration  of  the  General! 
Affemblie. 

December  6. — St.  Andros  Vifitation. — The  quhilk  day  the  Prefbyterie 
conveened  for  vifitation  of  the  kirk  of  St.  Andros,  quher  Mr.  Walter 
Comrie  did  preach. 

Intimation  was  publicklie  made  to  the  congregation  of  this  Vifitation. 


DEC.  1649.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  51 

The  minifters  being  removed,  the  elders  were  fworne  to  declare  quhat 
they  knew  of  ther  minifters  as  falbe  enquyred  ;  and  therefter  removed  and 
called  in  feverallie  and  examined  anent  the  foundnes,  clearnefie  and 
power  of  ther  do&rine,  there  catechizing,  vifiteing  of  families,  care  to 
have  Gods  worfhip  fett  vp  in  families,  anent  a  care  to  have  finne  punifh- 
ed,  anent  the  vprightnes  of  ther  converfation  :  In  all  which  they  did  fullie 
approve  them. 

The  elders  removed,  and  the  minifters  called  and  examined  feverallie, 
did  everie  one  of  them  approve  ther  collegues  as  faithfull  and  painfull  in 
ther  callings  ;  as  alfo,  did  approve  the  elders  in  holding  hand  to  difcipline, 
particularlie  that  the  prefent  Magiftrates  gave  good  affiftance  for  cenfur- 
ing  fcandalous  perlbns  :  Only  the  elders  are  exhorted  to  be  diligent  in 
obferving,  and  faithfull  in  dilateing,  common  fwearers,  and  fuch  as  live  in- 
temperatelie,  and  Sabbath  breakers. 

The  Prefbyterie,  in  vifiting  the  condition  of  the  paroch  of  St.  Andros, 
towne  and  landward,  both  paftors  and  people,  having  received  ample  tefti- 
monie  of  the  fidelitie  and  painfulnes  of  Mr.  Andro  Honyman,  and  confid- 
dering  that  his  prefent  manteinance  is  incompetent,  whither  in  regard  of 
the  eminencie  of  the  charge,  or  living  in  fuch  a  deare  place,  and  that  he 
can  nocht  well  be  removed  hence,  and  that  it  is  incumbent  to  them  to  lie 
how  this  may  be  remeided  in  ane  amicable  way,  do  nominate  and  appoint 
Mrs.  George  Hamilton,  Colin  Adams,  David  Forrett,  Robert  Bennett,  the 
Lairds  of  Moncreiff  and  Erlfhall,  or  any  thrie  of  them,  to  conveene  at  St. 
Andros  vpon  the  18  of  this  inftant,  with  the  Magiftrates,  or  fuch  others  as 
falbe  nominate  by  the  Courifell  of  the  faid  citie  for  agreeing  vpon  ane 
legall  courfe  how  this  may  be  conftantlie  remeided. 

Having  alfo  feene  and  confiddered  that  Mr.  Robert  Blair  hath  not  ane 
manfs,  according  to  the  Ads  of  Parliament,  and  that  ther  be  fome  tacks 
of  teynds  long  lince  given  out  by  his  predeceffors,  quherby  he  is  prejudged 
in  his  manteinance,  do  appoint  them  to  conlidder  both  thefe  particulars. 

As  alfo,  ther  being  feverall  parts  in  the  landward  paroch  of  St.  Andros, 
lying  at  a  great  diftance  from  the  kirk  therof,  by  reafon  quherof  they 
feldome  come  to  the  hearing  of  the  Word,  and  when  they  come  cannot 
have  a  commodious  place  in  the  kirk  for  hearing  the  Word,  the  number 


52  THE  PRESBYTERY  MARCH.  1650. 

of  the  townes  people  being  fo  great ;  which  places  lye  neir  other  kirks, 
where  they  may  be  fcrved  more  commodiouflie  for  a  tyme,  till  fome  oon- 
flant  courfe  be  agreed  vpon  ;  fuch  as  Bonytoun  and  Cartefuirdmylne  to 
Dininow ;  Nydie,  Newtoun  of  Nydie,  Clatta  and  Boonefield,  to  Kenibak  ; 
— doe  appoint  them  to  conlidder  heirof,  and  report  ther  diligence  in  all 
thefe  things  the  nixt  day. 

Januar  2. — Abercrombie. — The  Prefbyterie  doe  ordaine  the  minifters  of 
St.  Andros  to  delay  the  baptizeing  of  my  Lord  Abercrombies  chyld  till 
he  cleare  that  fcandall  railed  by  him  of  his  Ladie,  according  to  the  ap 
pointment  of  the  Provinciall  Afiemblie.1 

March  27. — Report  of  perambulation  of  the  west  part  of  St.  Andros  paroch. 
The  quhilk  day  thefe  appointed  to  perambulate  the  weft  part  of  the 
landward  paroch  of  St.  Andros,  did  report  ther  diligence  as  followes  : — 

March  20, 1650. — The  quhilk  day,  Mrs.  Patrik  Skowgall  and  Alexander 
Wedderburne,  John  Martyne  of  Lathones,  and  James  Bynning  of  Dininow, 
ruling  elders,  together  with  Mr.  Robert  Blair,  minifter  of  St.  Andros, 
mett  at  Kinkepill,  and  from  thence  did  perambulate  the  weft  parts  of  the 
paroch  of*  St.  Andros  ;  fome  places  whereof  they  find  above  thrie  myles 
diftant  from  St.  Andros,  and  verie  evill  way,  efpeciallie  in  winter,  and 
others  two  myles  diftant  from  the  faid  kirk,  of  verie  foull  way  alfo.  As 
alfo,  they  find  that  the  number  of  perfons  to  be  tane  charge  of  will  be 
toward  thrie  hundreth ;  and  withall  find  no  adjacent  kirk  to  which  moft 
part  of  them  can  be  convenientlie  annexed.  And  therfor  the  perambula- 
ters  foirfaid,  having  ane  eye  to  Gods  glorie,  the  advancement  of  the  Gof- 
pell,  and  the  good  of  the  foules  of  thefe  people,  declare  this  to  be  their 
humble  opinion :  That  a  kirk  be  ere&ed  in  the  moft  convenient  part  be- 
tweene  Kinkepill  and  Over  Strakinnefle,  where  all  thefe  people  of  Kin 
kepill,  Strakinnefle  Over  and  Nether,  Nydie,  Newtoun  of  Nydie,  Clatto, 

1  April  30,  1650. — The  quhilk  day,  my  Lord  Abercrumbie  had  a  child  baptized,  called 
James,  befor  honest  witnesses.  The  quhilk  bairne  (in  my  Lord  his  absence)  was  presented 
be  the  Laird  of  Kilbrackmond,  quho  oblidged  and  band  himself,  befor  the  minister  and  two  el 
ders,  to  answer  and  satisfie  for  any  thing  that  heirafter  should  be  objected  against  the  said 
Lord  his  ladie,  anent  that  scandall  at  Falkland. — Kirk  Sets.  Rec.  of  Abercrombie.  Lady 
Abercromby  was  accused  by  the  kirk-session  of  adultery  with  Sir  Mungo  Murray. 


APRIL  1650.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  53 

and  Boonefield,  may  relbrt  convenientlie,  moil  part  being  about  halfe  a 
myle  diftant  from  that  place,  and  the  furtheft  about  three  quarters  of  a 
myle. 

The  Prelbyterie,  having  heard  and  ferioully  confiddered  the  above 
written  report,  did  appoint  feverall  brethren  to  confidder  the  bounds  of 
the  kirk  of  St.  Andros,  and  compare  it  with  the  number  of  parochiners, 
and  fie,  whither  thefe  people  may  be  well  accommodate  there  for  attend 
ing  publicke  divyne  ordinances,  and  report  ther  diligence  afternoone. 

Postmeridiem  eodem  die. — Thefe  appointed  to  confidder  the  kirk  of  St. 
Andros,  whither  all  the  parochiners,  towne  and  landward,  can  be  well  ac- 
comodate  for  hearing  the  Word,  receiving  of  facraments,  declared,  That 
they  find  the  kirk  fo  difponed  to  the  people  of  the  towne  and  the  Uni- 
verfitie,  that  they  find  no  convenient  place  for  thefe  people  in  the  land 
ward  for  keeping  publicke  performances  of  worlhip  therin,  bot  leaft  of  all 
thefe  formerlie  nominate.  The  which  report,  together  with  the  former, 
leriouflie  confiddered,  the  Prelbyterie  finds  it  neceflar,  for  the  realbns 
above  written,  that  there  be  a  paroch  kirk  ere&ed  according  to  the  foir- 
mentioned  report,  and  referres  and  recoinends  the  fame  to  the  Provinciall 
Aflemblie,  that  they  may  recomend  and  referre  the  fame  to  the  Generall 
Aflemblie  for  advancing  fo  pious  and  neceflar  a  worke. 

March  27. — Diligence  for  changing  Monday  and  Saturdays  mercats. — The 
Prelbyterie  doe  appoint  the  feverall  brethren  in  burghes,  to  deale  with 
fuch  as  have  not  changed  ther  Mondayes  and  Satterdayes  mercats  to 
other  dayes  of  the  weeke,  that  they  may  doe  the  fame  primo  quoque  tern- 
pore. 

Reference  concerning  purgeing  of  Seffions. — The  Prelbyterie  confiddering 
how  neceffar  a  thing  it  is,  tending  much  to  the  vindication  of  the  governe- 
ment  of  Chrifts  Kirk,  and  the  advancement  of  the  Gofpell,  that  purgeing 
Seflions  of  ignorant  and  profane  members  be  univerfall  through  the  king- 
dome,  and  that  a  tyme  be  limited  heirto,  and  Seflions  obleift  to  report 
ther  diligence  to  Prelbyteries,  etc.,  with  peremptor  certifications,  doe  re 
ferre  the  fame  to  the  Provinciall  Aflemblie,  to  be  by  them  referred  and 
recomended  to  the  nixt  General  Aflemblie. 

April  24. Wilfons  admiffion   at   Camrone. — The  Prelbyterie  met   at 


54  THE  PRESBYTERY  MAY  1650. 

Cam  rone,  where  Mr.  Robert  Blair  did  preach,  Jer.  3,  v.  14,  and  Mr.  Alex 
ander  Wilfon  admitted  minifter  ther. 

May  1. —  Voluntar  contribution  for  Stonchaven  appointed. — The  Prelby- 
terie  having  confiddered  the  Petition  prefented  the  former  day  in  name  of 
the  towne  of  Stonehaven,  fhewing  the  great  prejudice  that  hath  and  may 
come  to  Ihips  and  barkes  goeing  alongs  to,  or  comeing  from  the  North 
fifliing,  through  want  of  ane  fafe  harbour  ther,  and  ther  owne  inhabilitie 
for  repareing  and  building  therof,  being  twyfe  burnt  by  the  mercilefie, 
bloodie,  excommunicate  rebell,  James  Grahame ;  and  therfor  earneftlie 
lupplicateing  for  fome  charitable  fupplie  to  the  effed  foirfaid,  which  is 
allb  aflifted  by  ane  Ad  of  Parliament,  and  ane  Ad  of  recomendation  from 
the  Provinciall  of  Angus  and  Mernes,  together  with  a  letter  of  recomend 
ation  from  the  Prelbyterie  of  Mernes.  The  Prefbyterie,  confiddering  the 
realbnablenes  of  the  defire,  doe  appoint  the  brethren  to  intimate  a  volun- 
tar  contribution  in  ther  feverall  congregations,  (and  efpeciallie  recomends 
the  fame  to  burghes  in  the  coaftfyde  quho  are  moft  intereft  therin,)  to 
colled  and  bring  in  ther  contributions,  to  be  delivered  to  William  Gregorie 
appointed  collector  by  them  for  that  effed. 

New  Pfalmes. — The  Prelbyterie  received  a  letter  with  22  copies  of  the 
late  paraphrafe  of  the  Pfalmes  of  David  in  meeter,  which  comeing  late, 
is  referred  to  the  nixt  day.1 

May  8. — New  Pfalmes  to  be  intimate. — The  Prelbyterie  having  received 
copies  of  the  new  paraphrafe  of  the  Pfalmes  of  David  in  meeter,  and  con- 
iiddered  the  lame,  doe  appoint  the  feverall  brethren  to  make  intimation 
of  the  pra&ifeing  therof  in  congregations  and  families,  to  beginne  the  firft 
Lords  day  of  June  in  this  Prelbyterie. 

May  15. — TkmJcfgimng  for  the  vi&orie  again/I  Grahame. — The  Prelby 
terie  received  a  letter  from  the  Comiflioners  of  the  Generall  Affemblie, 
Ihewing,  that  Thurefday  the  23  of  this  inftant  is  appointed  for  a  day  of 
folemne  thankfgiving  to  God  for  the  late  glorious  and  feafonable  vidorie 
againft  excomunicate,  bloodie,  perfidious  James  Grahame  and  his  aflTociates. 

1  This  was  the  version  of  the  Psalms  by  Francis  Rous,  revised  by  a  Committee  of  the  Ge 
neral  Assembly,  which  was  then  authorized,  and  still  continues  to  be  used  in  the  Scottish 
Church. 


JUNE  1650.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS. 


55 


May  29. — Lyall  jufpended  from  elder/hip.— Compeired  William  Lyall, 
quho  confeft  flighting  the  ordinance  of  the  Prefbyterie,  and  being  found 
ignorant  and  ftubborne,  the  Prefbyterie  did  fufpend  him  from  the  office 
of  elderfhip  till  he  give  proof  of  better  carriage ;  and  appoints  him  to 
come  to  the  Seffion  and  heir  the  fentence  of  the  Prefbyterie  intimate  ther, 
vtherwayes  appoints  it  to  be  intimate  out  of  pulpitt. 

June  5. — Promiscuous  Danceing. — All  quho  have  not,  are  appointed  to 
intimate  the  A6t  of  the  Generall  Affemblie  difcharging  promifcuous 
danceing. 

June  12. — Anjlruther  excomunicate. — The  Prefbyterie  having  feriouflie 
confiddered  the  atrocitie  of  Jhone  Anftruther  his  finneing,  quho,  being 
entrufted  by  diverfe  honeft  men  with  ane  fliippe  and  merchant  goods, 
went  away  vnder  Kirk  cenfures,  and  did  not  offer  fatiffa&ion  according  to 
order ;  and  being  away,  did  joyne  with  excomunicate  accurfed  Grahame, 
and  turned  pirate  vnder  him,  called  in  diverfe  feafareing  men  on  ther  lawfull 
tradeing,  and  examined  them,  requyred  vnlawfull  oathes  of  fome,  hath  taken 
feverall  fhippes,  fpoyled  many  honeft  men  of  ther  goods,  hath  mocked  God 
and  his  people  latelie  in  profeffing  publicke  repentance  for  grofie  malig- 
nancie  proven  againft  him  ;  doe  therfor  appoint  him  to  be  fummarlie  ex 
comunicate  the  nixt  Lords  day  by  the  minifter  of  Anftruther  Eafter. 

June  19. — Report  of  perambulations  of  Couper  and  St.  Andros. — Follower 
the  Report  of  thefe  appointed  for  perambulation  of  feverall  bounds  in  the 
Prefbyteries  of  St.  Andros  and  Couper. 

June  18, 1650. — The  whilk  daymett,  according  to  the  appointment  of  the 
Prefbyteries  of  St.  Andros  and  Couper,  in  obedience  to  the  appointment 
of  the  Synod,  the  brethren  vnder  writen,  to  witt,  Mr.  James  Wedder- 
burne,  Mr.  James  M'Gill,  Mr.  Alexander  Wedderburne,  and  Mr.  George 
Thomefon,  and  did  perambulate  the  eafter  parts  of  the  paroch  of  Serris, 
the  paroch  of  Kembak,  Darfie,  and  Logie,  and  the  weft  part  of  the  paroch 
of  Leuchars,  and  did  find  as  followes,  viz.  That  Over  and  Nether  Magus, 
in  the  paroch  of  Serris,  extending  the  number  of  ...  comunicants,  are 
diftant  from  the  kirk  of  Serris  two  myles  and  ane  halfe,  having  ane  ill  water 
twyfe  to  croffe,  and  but  ane  myle  from  the  kirk  of  Kembak,  of  farre  more 
commodious  way,  the  number  of  the  comunicants  of  Serris  being  .  . 


56  THE  PRESBYTERY  JUNE  1650. 

.and  the  number  of  the  comunicants  of  Kembak  being  but  eight  fcore. 
As  alfo,  having  viewed  the  weft  parts  of  the  paroch  of  Leuchars,  viz. 
Eafter  and  Wefter  Drone,  Burntoun,  Medowburn,  Pitcullo,  Kittetie,  Ar- 
ditt,  Hayftoun,  Couplahills,  Lucklay,  do  find  that  Eafter  Drone  is  diftant 
from  the  kirk  of  Leuchars  two  myles  of  verie  foule  way,  and  that  it  is  but 
a  myle  diftant  from  the  kirk  of  Dairfie :  alfo  Wefter  Drone  is  diftant 
from  the  kirk  of  Leuchars  two  myles  and  ane  half  of  foule  way,  and  with 
in  ane  quarter  of  ane  myle  to  the  kirk  of  Dairfie,  and  that  the  number  of 
comunicants  in  Drone  Eafter  and  Wefter  are  about  thriefcore :  alfo,  that 
Pitcullo,  Meedowburn  and  Burntoun,  having  in  them  about  thritie  com 
unicants,  are  two  myles  of  verie  foule  way  from  the  kirk  of  Leuchars,  and 
about  a  myle  either  to  Dairfie  or  Logic  of  good  way ;  the  number  of  the 
communicants  of  Dairfie  being  threttine  fcore,  and  the  number  of  com 
municants  in  Logie  about  thrie  hundreth  :  alfo,  that  Arditt,  Hayftoun, 
Kittetie,  Cuplahills,  and  Luckley,  are  two  myles  diftant  from  the  kirk  of 
Leuchars,  and  within  halfe  a  myle  of  the  kirk  of  Logie  ;  the  number  of 
communicants  in  thefe  places  being  above  fourfcore ;  the  number  of  the 
communicants  of  the  paroch  of  Leuchars  being  about  eleven  hundreth. 
The  humble  opinion  of  the  perambulators  is,  that  Over  and  Nether 
Magus  be  difjoyned  from  the  paroch  of  Serris,  and  annexed  to  the  paroch 
of  Kembak ;  and  that  Drone,  Eafter  and  Wefter,  fould  be  difjoyned  from 
the  paroch  of  Leuchars,  and  annexed  to  the  paroch  of  Dairfie ;  that  Pit 
cullo,  Meedowburn,  and  Burntoun  be  difjoyned  from  the  paroch  of 
Leuchars,  and  annexed  to  the  paroch  of  Dairfie  or  Logie,  as  the  Comil- 
fion,  after  hearing  of  the  heritours  and  refpedive  parochiners,  fall  find 
moft  convenient ;  that  Kittetie,  Arditt,  Luckley,  Cuplahills,  Hayftoun, 
fould  be  difjoyned  from  the  paroch  of  Leuchars,  and  adjoyned  to  the 
paroch  of  Logie.  In  teftimonie  quherof  thir  prefents  are  fubfcryved  with 
our  hands,  day  foirfaid,  at  Dron.  Sic  sub.  Mr.  James  Wedderburne,  Mr. 
George  Thomefone,  Mr.  James  Makgill,  Mr.  Alexander  Wedderburne. 

June  26. — Anftrutfier. — The  Prefbyterie  doe  appoint  the  feverall  brethren 
to  intimate  the  excomunication  of  Johne  Anftruther. 

Holland. — As  alfo,  the  feverall  brethren  are  appointed,  by  publicke  in 
timation,  to  warne  ther  people  of  a  vagabond  ignorant  fellowe,  called  Johne 


JULY  1650.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS. 


57 


Holland,  quho  profefles  to  give  phyficke,  and  hath  deceived  diverfe,  that 
they  beware  of  employing  him,  and  that  nane  in  thefe  bounds  fall  refett 
him.1 

July  10. — Graemjay  and  Couper. — John  Graemfay  and  Andro  Couper 
confeft  that  being  taken  by  Johne  Anftruther,  they  did  fweare  ane  oath 
to  him  ;  quho,  being  verie  ignorant,  are  referred  to  be  dealt  with  by  ther 
minifters,  and  the  Prefbyterie  againe  to  confidder  them  with  others  quho 
fall  be  found  in  that  cafe. 

July  1 7. — Moneyes  delivered  far  levying  ane  Regiment  of  Horfe  to  tlie 
prejent  Service. — The  Prelbyterie  conveened  occafionallie  for  delyvering 
ther  feverall  proportions  toward  the  levying  a  regiment  of  horfe  for  the 
prefent  fervice,  as  followes  ;  Mr.  James  Bruce  1 00  merks,  Mr.  Robert 
Bennett  100  lib.,  Mr.  Colin  Adams  100  merks,  Mr.  David  Guthrie  100 
merks,  Mr.  George  Hamilton  100  lib.,  Mr.  Henrie  Rymer  100  tib.,  Mr. 
Robert  Wilkie  100  merks,  Mr.  Robert  Weyms  100  merks,  Mr. James 
M'Gill  100  lib.,  Mr.  Patrik  Skowgall  100  iib.,  Mr.  Walter  Comrie  100 
merks,  Mr.  Alexander  Wedderburne  100  lib. 

July  31. — Rep  art  of  difcharge  of  Moneyes. — Mr.  Archibald  Porteous  pro 
duced  Mr.  James  Hamilton  his  difcharge  of  eighteen  hundreth  merks 
received  by  him  for  the  levie  of  ane  regiment  of  horfe  to  the  prefent  fer 
vice,  given  by  the  minifters  of  this  Prefbyterie  to  that  effe&.  As  alfo, 
the  brethren  following  produced  his  difcharge  of  the  proportions  following ; 
Mr.  Robert  Blair  200  merks,  Mr.  David  Forrett  200  merks,  Mr.  James 
Sharp  200  merks,  Mr.  Andro  Honyman  100  merks,  Mr.  Johne  Heart 
1  00  merks. 

Exhortation  to  Brethren. — The  Prefbyterie,  confiddering  the  great  danger 
to  Religion,  Covenant,  King,  and  Kingdome  at  this  tyme,  by  the  invaiion 
of  the  Se6taries,  exhorted  the  feverall  brethren,  not  only  to  be  earneft  in 
prayer  to  God  themfelves,  both  in  publicke  and  private,  bot  that  in  tounes 
the  people  be  conveened  everie  day  to  publicke  and  folemne  prayer,  quhen 
minifters  are  at  home  and  in  health ;  and  that  landward  a  day  be  fett 
apart  for  publicke  folemne  prayer  in  the  Congregation,  befyde  ther  ordinar 

1  Holland  was  an  English  mountebank  living  at  Anstruther,  whose  "  deceit  being  discovered, 
the  people  were  prohibite  to  resort  to  him." 

H 


58  THE  PRESBYTERY  SEPT.  1650. 

dayes ;  and  that  people  be  exhorted  to  private  humiliations  in  families,  and 
fecreit  alfo  by  themfelves. 

Prayer  again/I  the  Se&aries. — The  brethren  fpent  the  reft  of  this  day, 
both  befor  and  afternoone,  in  folemne  prayer  to  God,  for  a  blefiing  to  the 
vndertakings  of  this  Kirk  and  Kingdome  againft  the  unwarrantable  inva- 
fion  of  the  prefent  enemie,  quho  hath  perfidiouflie  forfaken  the  Covenant 
and  oath  of  God. 

Auguft  7. — Black  and  Wyde. — Mr.  Colin  Adams  to  conferre  with  Wil 
liam  Black  and  Andro  Wyde,  for  informeing  them  of  the  finne  in  fub- 
fcryving  that  oath  in  Orknay  called  THE  ERLE  OF  MORTONS  OATH.I 

Smith. — Compeired,  Ilbell  Smith  in  Kylrinnie  paroch,  quho  confeft  fhee 
vied  charmeing  wordes,  and  being  altogether  ignorant,  is  difcharged  to  vfe 
thofe  wordes,  and  appointed  to  make  publicke  acknowledgement  of  that 
finne  befor  the  Congregation  thrie  dayes.  As  alfo,  Margret  Gregorie  and 
Margret  Kynneir,  confeft  fhee  vfed  thefe  wordes  for  them :  They  are  ap 
pointed  to  declare  ther  fenfe  of  the  finfulnes  of  countenanceing  fuch 
wickednes  befor  the  Congregation  alfo. 

September  3. — Occajionatt  Meeting  of  the  4  Prejbyteries. — The  Prefbyterie, 
confiddering  how  neceflar  it  is,  in  this  fadde  tyme,  that  the  feverall  Prefby- 
teries  meitt  together,  both  for  themfelves  and  giving  ther  advyce  to  the 
meettings  of  the  fhyre,  doe  appoint  a  letter  to  be  lent  to  Couper,  another 
to  Mr.  Alexander  Moncreiff  for  Kirkaldie,  for  advertifeing  thefe  Prefby- 
teries,  and  Mr.  Alexander  Moncreiff  to  advertife  Dunfermline,  to  meitt  at 
Couper  vpon  Friday  nixt. 

September  17. — Solemne  Humiliation. — The  quhilk  day  the  Prefbyterie 

1  The  islands  of  Orkney  and  Shetland  were  ceded  by  Charles  I.  to  William,  seventh  Earl  of 
Morton,  in  164-3.  Although  the  oath  here  alluded  to  is  termed  THB  EARL  OF  MORTON'S  OATH, 
the  Editor,  after  considerable  inquiry,  can  discover  no  grounds  for  applying  it  to  him,  or  to  his 
son  who  succeeded  him  in  1649.  But  there  is  some  reason  to  suspect  that  it  refers  to  Patrick 
Stewart,  Earl  of  Orkney,  who  was  executed  in  1615  for  his  rebellion  in  Orkney,  and  his  law 
less  and  oppressive  acts  against  the  poor  inhabitants  of  those  islands.  The  rebellion  was  raised 
at  his  instigation,  while  prisoner  in  Dunbarton  Castle,  by  his  bastard  son  Robert,  who  admi 
nistered  to  his  followers  "  grit  Aithes  maid  upon  their  suordis  to  die  and  leve  with  him  aganis 
all  manner  of  persones,  his  Maiestie  our  sacred  Souerane  nocht  being  exceptit." — PITCAIRN'S 
CRIK.  TRIALS,  1615. 


OCT.  1650.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS. 


59 


received  a  Letter  from  the  Comiffioners  of  the  Generall  Affemblie,  ap 
pointing  a  Faft  to  be  keeped  vpon  the  defeate  of  the  armie,  for  the  caufes 
formerlie  fent ;  which  is  appointed  to  be  intimate,  and  the  caufes  red  the 
nixt  Lords  day,  together  with  a  fhort  Declaration  received  from  them  this 
day ;  and  the  folemne  humiliation  to  be  keeped  on  the  Lords  day  come 
eight  dayes,  for  the  foirfaid  caufes. 

The  brethren  are  requyred  to  be  earneft  in  exhorting  the  feverall 
paroches  to  fend  out  ther  levies  of  new  or  old  forces  to  Stirling,  for  oppofe- 
ing  the  enemie. 

Condoking  and  encourageing  of  Lumifdeane. — The  Prelbyterie  doe  appoint 
Mr.  Samuell  Rutherfuird,  Mr.  Colin  Adams,  and  Mr.  George  Hamilton,  to 
vifite  Sir  James  Lumifdeane  the  morne,  for  condoleing  his  cafe  and  en- 
oourageing  him  to  ftedfaftnes,  being  ane  prifoner  at  this  tyme. 

O&ober  23. — To  try  anent  any  accejforie  to  the  Kings  late  efcape,  etc. — All 
the  brethren  were  exhorted  to  try  of  any  in  thefe  bounds  quho  have  beene 
accefforie  to  the  Kings  Majeftie  his  late  efcape,  or  to  the  late  rebellion  in 
the  north,  and  report  ther  diligence  theirin  from  tyme  to  tyme. 

October  30. — Charitable  collection  for  our  prisoners  in  England. — The 
Prefbyterie  having  received  a  letter  from  the  Comiffioners  of  the  Generall 
Affemblie,  fhewing  the  fadde  condition  of  our  prifoners  in  England  through 
famine  and  nakednes,  and  that  they,  with  advyce  of  the  Committee  of 
Eftaites,  have  concluded  a  voluntar  contribution  through  the  feverall  Con 
gregations  of  this  Kirk  for  ther  releife  ;  The  Prelbyterie  doe  appoint  the 
intimation  heirof  the  nixt  Lords  day,  to  be  colle6ted  the  Sabboth  following ; 
in  the  meanetyme,  to  advife  with  the  Provincial!.  Affemblie  anent  the 
fecureing  heirof,  for  the  vie  foirfaid. 

As  alfo,  they  received  another  letter  from  the  faids  Comiffioners  de- 
fireing,  that  not  only  the  Comiffioners  heir  bot  other  brethren  wold  attend 
the  nixt  meeting  of  the  Comiffion  at  Stirling,  their  being  buffines  of  great 
importance  both  to  Kirk  and  State  to  be  agitate  then,  which  was  feriouflie 
recomended  to  brethren. 

The  Prefbyterie  takeing  to  their  further  coniidderation  the  former  let 
ter  of  the  Comiffion,  anent  the  Enormities  of  Minifters,  and  the  Remedies 
therof,  doe  as  yet  referre  it  to  be  confiddered  till  Monday  nixt. 


*0  THE  PRESBYTERY  DEC.  1650. 

Warning. — The  quhilk  day,  the  Prefbyterie  received  a  Warning  from 
the  Comiflioners  of  the  General  1  Aflemblie,  concerning  the  Malignants  in 
the  North  now  in  armes,  appointed  to  be  red  in  the  feverall  Congregations 

heir. 

November  4. — In  anfwer  to  the  letter  from  the  Comiflioners  of  the 
Generall  Aflemblie,  concerning  the  Enormities  of  Mmifters  and  the  Reme 
dies  heirof,  the  Prefbyterie  did  begin  with  this  overture : — 

The  Prefbyterie  confiddering  with  fadde  regrate,  that  notwithftanding 
of  a  fettled  Miniflrie  of  able  and  well  gifted  men  in  this  place  of  the 
countrey,  their  is  amongyft  the  greater  heir,  not  onlie  litle  of  the  power 
of  godlines  to  be  found,  bot  even  great  ignorance  and  profanitie ;  doe 
referre  to  the  approaching  dyat  of  the  Provinciall  Aflemblie,  to  confidder 
the  cautes  and  remedies  heirof  on  Minifters  part,  and  that  they  wold  ap 
point  Ibme  of  everie  Prefbyterie  to  meitt  for  confiddering  heirof,  and  to 
report  their  diligence  to  the  nixt  Synod. 

December  11. — Lundie. — The  quhilk  day,  compeired  the  Laird  of  Lun- 
die,  quho  being  feriouflie  examined,  denyed  expreflie  any  acceflion  either 
to  the  Kings  late  efcape  or  to  the  rifeing  in  the  North,  or  any  foirknow- 
ledge  of  thefe  things,  and  that  he  was  only  in  Dundie  at  that  tyme  vifitc- 
ing  his  brother  the  Erie  of  Lauderdale,  quho  remaines  their. 

December  23. — The  quhilk  day,  the  Prefbyterie  received  ane  A6t  of  the 
Comiflion  of  the  Generall  Aflemblie,  dated  Perth  December  14,  1650, 
referring  to  them  Johne  Erie  of  Lauderdaile,  that  they  may  try  the  evi 
dence  of  his  repentance,  for  his  acceflion  to  the  late  vnlawfull  Engadge- 
imMit  againft  the  kingdome  of  England,  and  that  thereafter  they  may 
receive  him  to  publicke  fatiffa&ion  for  that  offence.  And  lykewife 
received  a  petition  from  himfelfe  defireing  that  he  may  be  admitted  to 
teftifie  his  repentance  for  his  acceflion  to  that  finfull  way,  and  be  received 
to  the  Comunion  and  renewing  of  the  Covenant. 

The  Prefbyterie,  having  at  length  heard  the  faid  Erie  of  Lauderdaile, 
compeiring  befor  them,  exprefle  and  declare  his  fenfe  of  the  finfulnes  of 
that  Engadgement  in  the  nature  and  grounds  therof,  and  having  heard  him 
huniblie  acknowledging  his  acceflion  to  that  courfe,  and  finfull  forward- 
nes  and  a&ivitie  above  many  others  in  contryveing  and  carieing  on  the 


FEB.  1651.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  61 

lame,  withall  teftifieing  his  forrow  theirfor,  craving  pardon  of  God  for  it, 
and  promifeing  in  his  ftrenth  never  againe  to  owne  that  or  the  lyke  courfe ; 
and  being  heard  anent  the  Kings  Majeftie  his  late  efcape,  quherof  for  the 
moft  part  he  cleared  himfelfe,  yet  in  ibmethings  therin  his  carriage  being 
reprefented  to  him  to  be  finfull,  he  acknowledged  the  fame  ; — doe,  after 
mature  deliberation,  find  that  they  cannot  refufe  the  faid  Erie  of  Lauder- 
daill  to  teftifie  his  repentance  publicklie,  and  to  receive  the  Communion 
and  fubfcryve  the  Covenant  according  to  the  order  prefcryved  by  the 
Generall  Affemblie ;  and  therfor  ordaines  Mr.  James  Makgill,  minifter 
at  Largo,  to  receive  him  to  publicke  fatiffa6tion  in  the  paroch  church  of 
Largo,  vpon  the  day  of  folemne  humiliation,  and  to  receive  his  fubfcrip- 
tion  to  the  Covenant,  and  his  fubfcription  to  the  Declaration  appointed 
by  the  Generall  Affemblie  1 649  to  be  fubfcryved  by  fuch  as  have  been 
accefforie  to  that  Engadgement. 

Januar  15,  1651. — Rigs  admifjlon. — The  Prelbyterie  inett  at  Ferrie 
Porton-craig,  for  admiffion  of  Mr.  Johne  Rig. 

Januar  29. — Hamilton  and  Glencarne. — The  Prelbyterie  receiving  a  re 
ference  from  the  Comiffioners  of  the  Generall  Affemblie,  referring  to  them 
the  Duke  of  Hamilton  to  be  conferred  with  anent  his  acceffion  to  the  fin- 
full  and  vnlawfull  Engadgement  againft  England,  and  another  of  the  Erie 
of  Glencarne  to  that  fame  purpofe,  did  appoint  the  Moderator,  Mr.  James 
Wood,  Mr.  Colin  Adams,  Mr.  David  Forrett,  and  Mr.  Walter  Comrie, 
to  conferre  with  their  Lordftiips  this  day. 

February  12. — A  letter  appointed  to  be  writen  to  the  Comiffioners  of 
the  Generall  Affemblie,  bearing  the  report  made  by  the  brethren  appointed 
to  conferre  with  the  Duke  of  Hammilton  and  the  Erie  of  Glencarne ; 
quho  declared  that  they  had  received  fatiffaftion.  . 

February  26. — Anent  infolencies  of  Souldiers. — The  Prelbyterie  being 
touched  with  a  depe  fenfe  of  the  great  difhonour  done  to  God,  and  fore 
oppreffions  of  our  congregations,  caufed  by  the  vngodlie  and  infolent  be 
haviour  of  diverfe  fouldiers  quartered  within  our  bounds,  have  refolved  to 
complaine  to  the  Kings  Majeftie  and  Comittee  of  Eftates,  and  humblie  to 
lupplicate  for  redreffe  and  remedie  heirof :  And  therefore,  doe  defire  heri- 
tours  or  others  in  our  bounds  to  come  to  their  owne  Seffion  the  nixt 


62  THE  PRESBYTERY  JUNE  1651. 

Lords  day  in  the  afternoone,  and  give  in  the  names  of  fuch  as  are  guiltie 
of  abhominable  curfeing  and  f wearing,  profaneing  the  Lords  day  by  abfent- 
ing  themfelves  from  publicke  worfhip,  flaying  in  their  quarters,  or  other- 
wayes  are  intemperate  perfons,  or  have  fcandalouflie  oppreft  them  by 
exa&ing,  befyde  quhat  is  due  to  commanders,  moneys  unjuftlie  for  foul- 
diers  that  are  not  in  regiments ;  or  have  beaten  any  for  refufeing  them 
what  they  did  vnjuftlie  defire  ;  that  thefe  may  be  reprefented  to  vs  on  Mon 
day  nixt.  And  appoints  everie  minifter  to  intimate  the  fame  the  nixt 
Lords  day  after  forenoones  fermon. 

March  3. — Supplication  to  the  King  and  Comittee  of  Eftates. — The  Prefby- 
terie  conveened  for  receiving  the  greivances  of  the  feverall  paroches  by  the 
infolencies  of  fouldiers,  which  being  heard  and  confidered,  they  concluded 
vpon  a  Petition  to  be  lent  to  the  Kings  Majeftie  and  Comittee  of  Eftates 
for  remedie  heirof,  and  appointed  Mr.  James  Bruce  to  prefent  the  fame 
to  them  on  Tuefday  nixt. 

Apryle  23. — Conference  delayed. — The  Prelbyterie  having  formerlie  ap 
pointed  Mrs.  Robert  Blair,  James  Wood,  and  David  Forrett  to  conferre 
with  Mr.  Samuell  Rutherfuird,  anent  his  judgement  of  the  publicke  refo- 
lutions  for  defence  of  Religion  and  the  land  againft  the  enemie,  vnder- 
flanding  that  he  is  heavilie  feeke,  doe  referre  the  faid  conference. 

May  28. — Small. — The  feverall  brethren  are  advertifed  to  take  notice 
of  Helen  Small,  a  leude  loofe  woman  come  in  their  bounds,  that  fhee  be 
not  permitted  to  refide  amongft  them. 

June  3. — Anent  a  vduntar  Contribution  for  the  Annie. — The  quhilk  day, 
the  Prefbyterie  having  received  a  Letter,  together  with  ane  A&  of  Parlia 
ment,  defireing  a  voluntar  loane  or  giveing  of  moneyes,  for  expeding  the 
Armie  to  the  feilds  againft  the  comon  enemie,  and  for  defence  of  the  land 
againft  ther  vnjuft  invafion ;  and  that  Prefbyteries  wold  ftirre  vp  the  peo 
ple  to  this  neceflar  duetie,  for  feverall  reafons  contained  in  ther  faid  Afts 
and  letter, — The  feverall  brethren  are  appointed  to  vfe  ther  diligence 
with  the  people  in  ther  feverall  charges,  to  contribute  willinglie  and 
liberallie ;  and  that  the  famyn  be  brought  in  tymeouflie  vpon  Fryday  come 
eight  dayes,  and  delyvered  to  James  Sword,  according  to  the  order  of 
King  and  Parliament. 


OCT.  1651.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  63 

July  9. — Intimation  of  excommunication  of  Strachen,  etc. — The  quhilk  day, 
the  Prelbyterie  received  a  letter  from  the  Comiffioners  of  the  Generall 
Aflemblie,  defireing  the  intimation  of  ther  excomunication  of  Johne 
Swinton  fometyme  younger  of  that  Ilk,  Colonell  Archibald  Strachen, 
William  Dundas  brother  to  the  Laird  of  Duddingftone,  and  Lievtennant 
William  Goveane,  for  ther  complyance  with  the  enemie  quho  hath  vn- 
juftlie  invaded  this  land ;  and  of  Major  Andro  Abernethie,  for  rendring 
the  Caftle  of  Edinburgh  treacherouflie  to  them — recomended  to  the  bre 
thren  to  be  done. 

September  1. — Letter  to  Moncke  to  be  writen. — The  Prelbyterie  mett  occa- 
fionallie  for  advyfing  quhat  is  incumbent  to  be  done  by  them  in  relation  to 
certaine  brethren  latelie  taken  prifoners  at  Eliot,  as  Mr.  Robert  Dowglas, 
Mr.  James  Hamilton,  Mr.  Mungo  Law,  Mr.  Johne  Smith,  Mr.  James 
Sharp,  Mr.  George  Pattullo,  Mr.  Johne  Ratray,  minifters,  and  Mr.  Andro 
Ker,  Clerk  to  the  Generall  AfTemblie,  did  appoint  a  letter  to  be  writen  to 
Lievetennant  Generall  Moncke  for  ther  releife,  and  a  letter  to  the  brethren 
for  comforting  and  encourageing  them  vnder  ther  fuffering ;  and  Mr.  Alex 
ander  Wedderburne  appointed  to  goe  with  both.i 

OEtoberW. — The  brethren  of  the  Prefbyterie  being  conveened,  and  laying 
to  heart  the  prefent  fadde  condition  of  the  Kirk  of  God  in  this  land,  and 
the  dangers  and  confulions  that  threaten  the  eftablilhed  Governement 
and  difcipline  of  this  Kirk,  which  is  to  them  verie  precious ;  as  they  re- 
folve  never  to  exceed  the  bounds  of  ther  calling  in  medling  with  maters 
civile  or  of  peace  or  warre,  fo  they  doe  find  themfelves  bound  in  con- 
fcience  and  by  ther  calling  to  Declare : — 

1  In  NICOLL'S  DIARY  OF  TRANSACTIONS  IN  SCOTLAND,  August  1651,  is  the  following  notice 
of  the  occurrence  here  alluded  to.  "  This  Kingdome,  both  Kirk  and  Stait,  being  alwayis  de- 
vydit  both  in  judgement  and  opinion,  and  one  pulpit  speiking  aganes  another,  the  enymie  thair- 
upone  tuik  advantage,  and  gat  mony  opportuniteis  of  victorie.  And  heiring  that  thair  wes  a 
Committee  of  the  Estaites  than  halding  at  Eliot  [Alyth]  in  the  north,  besyde  Killimure  or  thair- 
about,  the  Inglisches  finding  this  Committee  to  be  cairless,  wanting  a  gaird,  or  ony  considerable 
assistance  for  the  tyme,  thai  raid  up  fra  Dundie  quyetlie  in  the  nycht,  upon  Thursday  the  28 
of  August,  come  upone  the  Committee  quyetlie  in  the  morning,  tuik  thame  prissoneris,  and 
robbit  thame  of  all  that  thai  haid,  and  schippit  thame  toward  England,  quhair  thai  wer  com- 
mittit."  P.  56. 


64  THE  PRESBYTERY  OCT.  1652. 

Firfl,  That  they  doe  vnanimouflie  aflTert  and  hold  the  late  Generall 
Aflemblie  begunne  at  St.  Andros,  and  continued  at  Dundie  to  have  beene 
a  lawfullie  conftitute  and  frie  Aflemblie  of  this  Kirk,  as  other  approven 
Generall  Aflemblies  of  this  Kirk. 

Secondlie,  That  their  is  no  meeting  ecclefiafticall  of  quhatfoever  name  or 
nature  in  this  land,  that  hath  any  warrand  from  God  or  man  to  claime 
any  publicke  ecclefiafticke  authoritie  over  the  faid  AflTemblie  or  the  Co- 
miflioners  theirof ;  or  to  afiume  power  in  that  capacitie  or  way  to  examine, 
or  give  any  publicke  judgement  vpon  the  lame,  except  another  lawfull  frie 
AflTemblie  of  this  Kirk ;  or  yet  to  claime  any  power  over  the  feverall 
church  judicatories  of  the  land. 

Thridlie,  That  vntill  another  frie  Generall  Aflemblie  may  be  had  through 
the  mercie  of  God,  quhatfoever  ecclefiafticall  meeting,  not  having  autho 
ritie  from  the  faid  Aflemblie,  fall  affume  to  themfelves  the  power  of  a 
publicke  Kirk  judicatorie  over  the  congregations  of  the  land ;  or  fall  take 
vpon  them,  as  in  that  capacitie,  to  emitt  Warnings,  Letters,  Remonftran- 
ces,  Caufes  of  Fafts,  etc. ;  or  that  fall  prefume  to  cenfure  any  perfon  quhat 
foever  ; — Is  and  fall  be  looked  vpon  and  holden  by  this  Prefbyterie  as  ane 
vnlawfull  meeting,  ther  authoritie  as  vfurped,  and  all  ther  a&s  of  that 
kynd  are  and  fall  be  holdin  as  deids  of  private  men  a&ing  without  a  call 
ing,  and  noways  binding  this  Prefbyterie,  bot  voyde  and  null  befor  God 
and  man. 

Fourthlie,  That  they  will  never  countenance  nor  concurre  with  any 
fuch  vfurped  authoritie  tending  to  the  fubverfion  of  the  eftablifhed 
governement  of  the  kirk ;  althogh  they  doe  heartilie  approve  conferences 
of  gracious  brethren  quho  follow  after  peace,  and  intend  that  way  the  re- 
paireing  of  our  woefull  breaches. 

Mr  Patrick  Scowgall  appointed  to  correfpond  with  Couper,  Mr.  James 
Makgill  with  Dunfermline,  and  Mr.  Henrie  Rymer  with  Kirkaldie,  and 
to  (hew  them  ther  foirfaid  aft,  and  the  former  appointment  of  ane  Faft. 

Marche  31,  1652. — Letter,  Sharp. — A  letter  appointed  to  be  writen  in 
name  of  the  Prefbyterie  to  Mr.  James  Sharp,  prifoner  at  Lundon ;  Mr. 
James  Wood  and  Mr.  Andro  Honyman  appointed  to  draw  it  vp. 

O&ober  \  3. — Mr.  Alexander  Edward  admitted  minifter  at  Dininnow. 


MARCH  1653.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  65 

Januar  12,  1653. — Newburne. — The  quhilk  day,  Mr.  George  Hamilton 
made  report  that,  according  to  the  order  of  the  Prefbyterie,  he  preached 
and  keeped  Seffion  at  Newburne  the  laft  Lords  day ;  quher  the  Seffion 
did  vnanimouflie  nominate  Mr.  Robert  Honyman,  regent,  to  be  their  mi- 
nifter,  and  that  the  whole  congregation  gave  their  affent  to  the  eleftion. 
And  the  Seffion  defired  that  he  may  be  entred  to  his  tryalls  by  the  Pref 
byterie,  in  relation  to  that  charge.  The  faid  Mr.  Robert  being  called 
and  heard,  heirin  fubmitted  himfelfe  to  the  Prefbyterie ;  quho  appointed 
him  to  adde  to  the  exercife  the  nixt  day,  and  to  handle  the  contraverfie 
De  merito  mortis  Chri/li^  as  his  adres  will  permitt. 

Kembak. — Mr.  Alexander  Wedderburne  declared,  that  the  people  of 
Kembak  are  defireous  to  heare  moe  young  men  befor  they  proceid  to  elec 
tion.  Mr.  James  Buglois  appointed  to  preach  ther  the  nixt  Lords  day. 

Januar  26. — Mr.  James  Buglois,  not  having  preached  at  Kembak  the 
laft  Lords  day,  is  defired  to  preach  ther  the  nixt  Lords  day,  which  he 
vndertooke.  And  Mr.  John  Rig  appointed  to  preach  there  the  Sabbath 
following,  and  fie  if  the  heads  of  families  there  will  agree,  and  proceid  to 
ele6tion  of  one  of  thefe  young  men  they  have  heard. 

Fetouar  9. — Mr.  Johne  Rig  made  report,  that  the  heads  of  families  in 
Kembak  paroch  moft  of  them  declared  they  were  readie  for  ele&ion,  only 
David  Couper  defired  to  heare  moe  yong  men,  and  Kembak  yonger  pro- 
tefted  againft  all.  The  Prefbyterie  appointed  Mr.  Laurence  Charters  to 
be  writen  to,  and  defired  to  preach  there  on  Sabbath  come  eight  dayes. 

Kennedy. — The  Prefbyterie  doe  appoint  the  feverall  brethren  to  bring 
in  the  fourtie  fhillings  appointed  by  the  Provinciall  Afiemblie  for  in- 
tertaineing  Peter  Kennedy,  a  blind  boy,  at  the  Colledge  this  yeir. 

Februar  23. — The  Prefbyterie,  being  informed  that  Mr.  Laurence  Char 
ters  hath  not  preached  at  Kemback,  nor  is  not  to  be  expe&ed  at  this  tyme, 
doe  defire  Mr.  Thomas  Lentron  to  preach  ther  the  nixt  Lords  day. 

March  9. — Colvill. — The  Prefbyterie  received  a  paper  from  Mr.  Samuell 
Colvill,  the  anfuer  quherof  is  delayed  till  he  bring  a  teftimoniall  from  the 
place  of  his  refidence  before  he  came  heer,  as  he  was  formerlie  appointed. 

March  23. — Mafter  Alexander  Edward  made  report,  that  he  preached 
at  Kembak  the  laft  Lords  day,  and  betweene  fermons  conveened  the  here- 

i 


66  THE  PRESBYTERY  AUG.  1653. 

tours,  elders,  and  heads  of  families,  for  ele&ion  of  a  minifter,  according  to 
the  ordinance  of  the  Provinciall  Aflemblie  ;  quho,  by  pluralitie  of  voyces, 
out  of  thefe  thrie  they  heard  laft,  to  witt,  Mr.  James  Buglois,  Mr.  Johne 
Bairdie,  and  Mr.  Patrik  Peacocke,  did  choife  Mr.  Johne  Bairdie1  to  be 
ther  minifter,  defireing  that  he  may  be  entred  to  his  tryalls  for  that 
effeft.  The  Prefbyterie  doe  vnanimouflie  approve  the  ele&ion ;  bot  in 
regard  of  ane  A6t  of  the  Generall  Affemblie,  vnto  which  Kembak  alledges 
the  ele&ion  not  to  be  agreeable,  the  Prefbyterie  doe  referre  the  fame  to 
the  Provinciall  Aflemblie. 

Apryk  27. — [Mr.  Robert  Honyman  admitted  to  Newburne.] 

May  18. — RutJierfurds  Paper. — The  paper  given  in  to  the  Prefbyterie, 
November  5,  1651,  by  Mr.  Samuel  Rutherfurd,  cannot  be  found,  that  the 
Prefbyterie  may  give  ane  anfuer  therto,  according  to  ther  promife. 

July  6. —  Wiljony  Seffion  Clerk,  depofed. — The  Prefbyterie  having  found 
Mr.ThomasWilfon,  fchoolemafter  of  Largo,  and  clerk  to  the  Seflion  ther,  by 
his  owne  confeflion  to  be  guiltie  of  curfeing,  by  profane  nameing  of  the'devill 
twyfe  vpon  the  Lords  day,  quhen  the  Communion  wes  celebrate,  of  bach- 
leing  faith  in  the  face  of  the  Seflion,  and  flighting  his  minifters  admoni 
tion  for.  the  fame ;  and  lykewayes,  having  heard  the  minifter  and  moft  part 
of  the  elders  declare,  that  he  is  ane  ordinarie  taunter  and  tipler,  judges 
him  vnfit  for  the  charge  quherin  he  is :  And  therfor,  fufpending  him  pre- 
fentlie  from  his  charge  in  the  Seflion,  they  appoint  him  alfo  to  remove 
from  the  charge  of  the  fchoole  betuixt  this  and  Mertimes,  and  in  the 
meanetyme  to  make  publicke  fatiffa&ion  befor  the  pulpit  for  his  fcandall. 

Attgti/l  17- — Colvill. — The  Prelbyterie,  being  defired  by  the  Matters  of 
the  Old  Colledge  to  teftifie  quhat  is  knowen  to  them  concerning  the  beha 
viour  of  Mr.  Samuell  Colvill  dureing  his  abode  within  the  bounds  of  this 
Prefbyterie,  doe  returne  this  anfuer : — That'  althogh  it  belongetli  proper! ie 
to  the  miniftrie  and  elderfhip  of  St.  Andrewes  (quher  he  hath  lived  ane 
great  part  of  fome  yeirs  paft)  to  give  particular  teftimonie  of  his  behaviour, 
yet  doe  find  it  incumbent  to  them  to  declare,  that  they  have  oftymes  bein 

1  Mr.  Bairdie  was,  however,  never  inducted.  Owing  to  disputes  among  the  parishioners  re 
garding  the  election  of  a  minister,  the  church  appears  to  have  remained  vacant  from  1 650  till 
July  1656,  when  Mr.  John  Wnrdlaw  was  admitted. 


APRIL  1654.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  67 

much  offended  with  his  levitie,  vnfettlednes  of  fpirit,  and  his  diffbrderlie 
cariage  toward  his  reverend  Brother,  prefenting  to  vs  raileing  lybells  againfl 
him,1  for  which  he  hath  bein  diverle  tymes  gravelie  rebuiked.  And  al- 
thogh  he  hath  remaned  fo  long  a  tyme  in  ther  bounds,  yet  they  have 
never  to  this  day  heard  any  good  report  of  him,  but  very  much  anent  his 
diflblute  life  and  converfation. 

Sept.  2 1 . — Difchargefor  Tinmouth  prifoners, — The  quhilk  day,  Thomas  Fin- 
lay  prefented  a  difcharge  fubfcryved  by  Lievtennant  Dugud  of  229  lib.  6  §. 
8  d.,  received  by  him  from  the  laid  Thomas  for  the  vfe  of  his  fellow  prifoners 
at  Tinmouth  Caftle.  The  Prelbyterie  appoints  the  reft  of  that  contribution 
to  be  broght  in  with  all  diligence,  and  delyvered  to  the  faid  Thomas  Finlay. 

Nov.  9. — Kembak. — The  Prefbyterie  mett  at  Kembak  for  vifitation  of  that 
kirk.  The  whole  heads  of  families  being  called  vpon  and  broght  in,  and 
being  enquyred  if  they  were  not  wearied  of  lying  deftitute  of  a  minifterie, 
and  if  they  were  not  delireous  to  be  provyded  with  ane  able  and  faithfull 
minifter, — they  profefled  thair  earneft  defire  that  the  Prefbyterie  wold  en- 
devore  ther  fpeedie  fettling.  Only  Kembak  laboured  to  perfuade  the 
people  that  the  Prefbyterie  were  come  ther  to  prey  vpon  ther  fimplicitie. 
Thefe  prefent  referred  the  confidderation  of  the  bufines  to  the  nixt  day. 

December  21. — Dirigies. — The  brethren,  in  ther  feverall  charges,  are  ex 
horted  to  take  notice  of  Dirigies  after  burialls,  for  fuppreffing  them. 

March  15,  1654. — Deafe. — The  quhilke  day,  compeired  befor  the  Pref 
byterie  John  Deafe  in  St.  Andrews,  quho  being  rebuiked  for  ftubbornes 
and  ignorance  in  confeffing  a  fault  of  mifcalling  a  woman,  and  not  ac 
knowledging  finfulnes  therin,  is  remitted  againe  to  the  Seffion  ther. 

Apryle  3. — The  Prefbyterie  confiddering  the  lamentable  ignorance  of 
God,  as  amongft  many  others,  fo  particularlie  amongft  thefe  quho  are 
hirds,  doe  referre  that  bufines  to  the  Provinciall  Afiemblie,  that  they  may 
confidder  of  overtures  for  remeid  heirof. 

Augyfl  30. — Anent  hirds  keeping  publicke  wor/hip. — The  Prefbyterie  con 
fiddering  that  hirds  doe  ordinarlie  abfent  themfelves  from  publicke  ordi- 

1  Samuel  Colvill,  author  of  a  Mock  Poem,  or  the  Whig's  Supplication,  was  the  younger 
brother  of  Dr.  Alexander  Colvill,  a  learned  divine,  who  had  been  Professor  of  Divinity  in  the 
University  of  Sedan,  and  at  this  time  filled  the  same  chair  in  St.  Mary's  College,  St.  Andrews. 


68  THE  PRESBYTERY  MAY  1655. 

nances  of  Gods  worlhip,  vpon  the  Lords  day,  the  whole  fummer  and  har- 
veft  tyme,  do  referre  to  the  Provinciall  Aflemblie  how  this  renewed  fmne 
may  be  remeided. 

0£t.  4. — Anent  decayed  bridges. — The  Prelbyterie  taking  to  their  ferious 
confideration  the  great  decay  of  bridges  in  thefe  bounds,  particular-lie  the 
Bowbridge  of  St.  Andrewes,  the  Innerbridge  of  Leuchars,  and  the  bridge 
at  Dairfie,  did  nominate  ther  brethren,  Mrs.  Robert  Blair,  James  Wood, 
Andro  Honyman,  Walter  Comrie,  Patrik  Scougall,  and  James  Sharp, 
to  confidder  of  overtures  for  reparation  of  thefe  and  the  lyke,  to  be  pre- 
fented  to  the  Prelbyterie  the  nixt  day.  And  ane  correfpondent  to  be 
fent  to  the  Prelbyterie  of  Couper,  anent  the  bridge  of  Dairfie. 

October  25. — Decayed  bridges  referred  to  the  Synod. — The  Prelbyterie, 
confiddering  the  great  decay  of  bridges  in  thefe  bounds,  doe  referre  to  the 
Synod  to  confidder  how  they  may  be  repaired. 

February  7,  1655. — Cairnes  permitted  to  marie. — The  quhilk  day,  John 
Cairnes  in  Camrone  paroch,  prefented  a  petition  to  the  Prelbyterie,  quher- 
in  he  profefied  to  be  convinced  of  the  finfulnes  of  his  former  loofe  walking 
and  converfation,  and  promifed  a  more  fober  way  of  converfation  after 
wards  ;  and  fupplicateing,  that  in  regard  he  being  a  widow,  and  having 
diverfe  finall  and  young  children,  he  may  be  permitted  to  marie  ;  quhilk 
was  granted.1 

March  21. — Aft  for  having  the  Bybk,  Acls  of  Generatt  and  Provincial 
Affemtties,  and  of  tJte  Prejbyterie  at  tJie  Prejbyterie. — The  Prelbyterie  con 
fiddering  that  for  more  clearnes  in  doubtfull  cafes,  it  is  expedient  they 
have  at  all  tymes  the  Byble,  the  Ads  of  Generall  and  Provinciall  AlTem- 
blies,  and  of  the  Prelbyterie,  to  advyfe  with,  doe  appoint  that  at  all  tymes 
thefe  be  brought  to  the  Table  quhen  they  fitt  downe,  and  remaine  ther 
till  they  clofe  ther  meeting. 

May  30. — Edinburgh  Collection. — The  Prelbyterie  doe  referre  to  the 
feverall  Kirk  Seffions,  the  maner  of  collecting  for  releife  of  thefe  quho 
fuffered  by  the  late  burnings  at  Edinburgh,  intreating  it  may  be  gone 
about  with  convenient  diligence. 

1  John  had  been  convicted  of  "  fornication,  blasphemie,  ryotousnes,  drunkennes,  and  abusing 
his  neighbours,"  and  had  been  ordered  to  do  pennance,  and  debarred  the  communion. 


OCT.  1655.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  69 

Junij  27. — Erl/hall  younger  and  Ladie  Arnott  ther  proclamation  flopped 
for  15  dayes. — The  Prefbyterie  having  received  ane  appellation  by  Mr. 
James  Reid  of  Pitlethie,  from  the  Kirk  Seffion  of  Leuchars,  anent  ther 
not  floppeing  proclamation  of  bannes  matrimoniall  betuixt  Andro  Bruce, 
feear  of  Erlfhall,  and  his  daughter  the  Ladie  Arnott,  the  Prefbyterie 
doe  aggree,  that  the  proclamation  of  the  faid  bannes  matrimoniall  be 
flopped  for  fyftein  dayes ;  partlie  becaufe  ther  was  too  great  rafhnes  in 
the  parties  in  that  bulines ;  and  fecondlie,  that  parents  on  both  parts  may 
be  dealt  with  in  a  freindlie  way  for  bringing  them  to  a  good  vnderftand- 
ing  amongft  themfelves  therin.  Mr.  Robert  Blair  and  Mr.  Samuell 
Rutherfuird,  nominate  to  deale  with  Pitlethie,  and  Mr.  James  Bruce  and 
Mr.  Alexander  Wedderburne,  with  the  Laird  of  Erlfliall  elder. 

Thomfbn  intended  bejlialitie. — Compeired  John  Thomfon,  fometyme  pa- 
rochiner  of  Kembak,  now  refident  in  the  paroch  of  Largo,  quho  declared, 
that  be  reafon  of  trouble  in  his  mynd,  he  re  veiled  to  Mr.  Robert  Bennett 
a  purpofe  of  committing  beftialitie  with  a  meare,  bot  did  not  goe  about 
committing  that  vnnaturall  finne.  The  Prefbyterie  referred  him  to  be 
inftru&ed  by  the  minifter  of  Largo. 

July  26. — Mr.  Robert  Macward,  ftudent  in  divinitie,  defireing  to  enter 
to  his  tryalls,  recomended  for  that  effeft  by  the  joynt  concurrence  of  the 
Matters  of  the  New  Colledge,  gatt  affigned  for  the  firft  part  quhairof, 
Rom.  5.  v.  1. 

Augufi  1. — The  private  exercife  in  Rom.  5.  v.  1,  delyvered  by  Mr.  Robert 
Makward,  cenfured  and  approven.  He  is  appointed  for  his  further  tryall 
to  handle  the  contraverlie,  De  praefentia  Chrifli  in  coena. 

OStober  10. — No  exercife,  be  reafon  that  Mr.  Robert  Makwards  thefes 
were  not  delyvered  at  the  Synod. 

Mr.  Robert  Makward  was  defired  to  give  in  his  thefes  prefentlie,  and 
being  defired  to  attend  Mrs.  Colin  Adams,  David  Forrett,  Patrik  Scougall, 
and  Henrie  Rymer,  for  conferring  with  him  this  day  15  dayes,  after  his 
delyverie  of  his  commonheid,  concerning  his  not  joyneing  in  a  faft  ap 
pointed  by  the  AfTemblie  1655,  and  his  joyneing  in  a  proteftation  in  the 
meeting  of  the  Vniverfitie  againft  the  choofing  of  Commiffioners  to  the 
Generall  AfTemblie,  becaufe  indifted  by  a  preceeding  Aflemblie  of  a  cor- 


70  THE  PRESBYTERY  JAN.  1656. 

rupt  conftitution ;  he  refufed  the  conference,  becaufe  he  thought  to  fubmitt 
to  a  conference  of  that  kynd  a  receding  from  that  quhilk  he  formerlie 
owned, quhilk  hemynded  not  to  doe;  and  went  away,  not  offering  his  thefes.1 
O&ober  10. — ffavilland,  Englijliman. — A  petition  was  prefented  by  ane 
Englifh  gentleman,  Sir  Anthonie  Haviland,  having  a  pafle  from  the  Juftice 
of  peace  in  Northumberland,  and  a  Scottifti  woman  being  his  wife ;  in 
which  Petition  he  reprefented  his  fadde  condition,  and  defired  fome  prelent 
help.  In  anfuer  to  which,  the  Prefbyterie  appoints  everie  brother  to  bring 
in  fome  releife  for  him  this  day  moneth  at  furtheft. 

Nov.  1 4. — Petition  for  prifoners  at  Halyrudehoufe. — A  petition  was  pre 
fented  by  Charles  Arefkine,  from  feverall  prifoners  in  the  Abbey  of  Haly- 
rudhoufe,  being  in  verie  great  diftres,  earneftlie  intreating  prefent  releife ; 
which  petition  was  accepted,  and  the  Prelbyterie  recommended  that  the 
brethren  vfe  diligence  with  the  feverall  Seflions  for  the  obtaineing  of 
fomething  for  ther  help,  and  to  advyfe  which  fall  be  the  fitted  courfe  to 
be  taken  for  that  effed,  and  ane  anfuer  to  be  given  this  day  moneth. 

November  28. — Anent  May  guiltie  of  attempt  of  Bejlialitie. — Mr.  Alexan 
der  Wedderburne  appointed  to  intimate  to  his  people  from  pulpit,  the 
Prefbyteries  diligence  in  enquyreing  after  John  May,  guiltie  of  the  at 
tempt  o'f  beftialitie,  and  ther  purpofe  of  making  fearch  in  other  parts  of 
the  kingdome,  withall  delireing  tham  againe  if  they  know  quher  he  is,  to 
declare  it  to  the  Prefbyterie. 

Januar  23, 1656. — Mr.  James  Sharp,  having  reprefented  to  the  Prelby 
terie  his  deepe  fenfe  of  the  weightie  charge  of  the  miniftrie  of  Craill,  and 
withall  how  impoflible  he  found  it  to  perfuade  the  parochiners  there  to 
grant  any  conftant  and  fettled  manteinance  for  ane  a&uall  minifler  to  be 
a  fellow  labourer  with  him  in  that  worke ;  as  alfo,  how  willing  he  found 
them,  in  refpe&  to  his  bodilie  weaknes,  and  dureing  his  owne  abode 

1  Mr.  Robert  was,  however,  licensed  by  some  other  Presbytery,  and  appointed  one  of  the 
Ministers  of  Glasgow.  After  the  Restoration  of  Charles  II.  having  preached  against  the  "  glar 
ing  defections  of  the  times,"  he  was  arrested,  tried  "  for  sedition  and  treasonable  preaching," 
and  obliged  to  leave  Scotland.  He  went  to  Holland,  and  was  chosen  second  minister  of  the 
Scottish  Church  in  Rotterdam,  where  he  died  in  1681,  (Steven's  History,  pp.  28  and  336, 
Edin.  1833,  8vo.)  He  was  the  author  of  the  Poor  Man's  Cup  of  Cold  Water,  and  many 
other  tracts  printed  in  Holland  during  the  times  of  the  persecution  of  the  Covenanters. 


OCT.  1656.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  71 

amongft  them,  to  contribute  Ibmequhat  yeirlie  for  the  manteinance  of  any 
appro ven  expe&ant  quhom  they  pleafed  to  choofe  to  be  ane  helper  to  him  ; 
did  crave  the  Prefbyteries  advyce,  whither  he  might  not  accept  of  quhat  was 
granted  by  them :  which  the  Prefbyterie,  confiddering  feverall  pradifes  in 
the  lyke  cafe,  thought  he  might  faiflie  doe  vntill  more  might  be  obtained. 

Feb.  2. —  Wardlaws  Declaration. — Mr.  John  Wardlaw  was  prefent  this 
day,  and  being  interrogated,  whither  or  noe  he  diffowned  the  Comiffion 
anno  1650  as  expyred,  becaufe  of  the  two  Generall  Affemblies  which  fol 
lowed  immediatelie  ?  Anfuered  affirmativelie.  And  the  Prefbyterie  being 
fatiffied  therwith,  appoints  Mrs.  Robert  Blair,  Samuell  Rutherfuird,  Patrik 
Scougall,  to  deale  with  Brathins  for  furthering  the  plantation  of  Kembak. 

May  21. —  Vilants  admiffion. — The  Prefbyterie  conveenedat  Ferrie-por- 
ton-craig  for  the  admiffion  of  Mr.  William  Vilant  to  the  charge  of  the 
miniftrie  at  that  place. 

July  2. — The  Prefbyterie  conveened  at  Kembak  for  the  admiffion  of 
Mr.  John  Wardlaw  to  the  charge  of  the  miniftrie  ther. 

July  30. — Mr.  William  Row,  correlpondent  from  Couper  Prefbyterie, 
defired  advyce  anent  fome  Anabaptifts  in  the  paroch  of  Couper,  quho 
wer  laitlie  rebaptized.  The  Prefbyterie  thinks  fitt  that  the  mater  of  the 
Anabaptifts  be  reprefented  to  the  meeting  at  Edinburgh. 

September  24. — Symfone  in  Camrone. — Compeired,  Andro  Symfone  in  the 
paroch  of  Camrone,  quho  being  challenged  of  drunkennes,  denyed  the  fame, 
although  it  was  proven  ;  and  appeared  to  be  ftupid  and  fenfles  of  finne  and 
the  cenfure  infli&ed  on  him ;  being  threatened  with  excommunication,  it 
appeared  not  that  he  was  moved  therwith.  The  Prefbyterie  refolved, 
leing  there  were  feveralls  in  fuch  a  condition,  to  referre  the  mater  in 
thefe  to  the  Synod,  that  they  might  know  quhat  courfe  fould  be  takin 
with  thefe,  quho,  after  fufpenfion  from  the  Sacrament  of  the  Lords  Sup 
per,  were  not  weighted  with  the  cenfure,  and  fell  in  new  fcandalls. 

O&ober  21. — Ad  for  better  keeping  the  Prejbyterie. — The  Prefbyterie, 
being  much  weighted  that  many  brethren  were  oft  abfent  from  the  Prefby 
terie,  others  come  late,  and  others  having  come  doe  withdraw  themfelves 
from  the  Prefbyterie,  did  appoint  that  thefe  quho  wer  abfent,  having  no 
lawfull  excufe,  fould  be  fharplie  cenfured  according  to  ther  fault.  And 


72  THE  PRESBYTERY  FEB.  1657. 

befides,  it  was  by  confent  agreed  on,  that  the  abfents  fhould  pay  eight 
fhillings ;  thefe  quho  come  late  4  §. ;  thefe  that  withdraw  2  S.  And  if 
they  fould  offer  to  excufe  themfelves,  that  befor  ther  excufe  were  heard, 
the  money  fould  be  laid  downe,  and  if  the  excufe  were  not  found  rele 
vant,  given  to  Mr.  Henrie  Rymer,  collector  of  this  money. 

November  12. — Mure,  Pyper. — The  quhilk  day,  compeired  John  Mure, 
quho  was  rebuiked  for  being  the  author  of  much  difforder  by  his  pypeing ; 
and  warned,  that  if  he  fall  be  found  afterward  making  difforder  in  any 
congregation  within  thefe  bounds,  recourfe  will  be  had  to  the  civile 
magiftrate  for  taking  order  with  him. 

Sanders  and  Bell  recomended. — Thomas  Sanders  and  William  Bell,  poore 
fcholers  in  St.  Andrewes,  recomended  to  the  feverall  Seffions,  and  it  is  de- 
fired  that  everie  Seffion  give  them  20  S.  or  two  merks. 

Private  Cenfure. — The  whole  brethren  prefent  approven  as  faithfull  and 
diligent  in  their  calling,  and  of  a  holie  and  Chriftian  converfation. 

December  3. — Suppliefor  Grecian  Minifters. — The  quhilk  day,  the  Prelby- 
terie  [received]  a  Supplication  from  Anaftafius  Comnenus,  a  minifter  of  the 
Grecian  Church,  together  with  fome  teftificates  anent  himfelfe  and  thefe 
for  quhom  he  did  fupplicate,  defireing  fome  charitable  fupplie  for  his  owne 
and  other  fyftein  minifters,  captives  at  Argiers,  ther  releife. 

December  1 7. — Pittenweems  Supplication  referred. — The  quhilk  day,  the 
Prefbyterie  received  a  petition  from  the  burgh  of  Pittenweeme,  defireing 
help  by  a  contribution,  for  the  repaireing  of  ther  harbor ;  defireing  alfo  a 
recomendation  of  ther  fadde  condition  to  other  adiacent  cities,  burghes, 
Prefbyteries  and  Synods.  The  Prefbyterie  referred  the  fupplication  to 
the  Synod. 

Jannuar  28,  1657. —  Wood  and  Scouaatt  to  meit  at  Edinburgh. — The 
Prefbyterie,  being  advertifed  that  fundrie  minifters  are  to  meit  at  Edin 
burgh  the  nixt  moneth,  about  fomethings  relateing  to  the  governement  of 
Chriits  Kirk  in  this  land,  did  nominate  Mr.  James  Wood  and  Mr.  Patrik 
Scougall  for  affiftance  and  giving  advyce  therm. 

February  11. — [Mr.  Robert  Honyman,  minifter  of  Newburne,  ordained 
to  be  tranfported  to  Dyfert.] 

Feb.  25. — Letter  from  Cathnes. — The  quhilk  day,  the  Prefbyterie  received 


MARCH  1658.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  73 

a  letter  from  the  Prefbyterie  of  Cathnes,  by  Mr.  James  Adams  one  of  ther 
number,  declareing  the  defolate  condition  of  that  corner  of  the  countrey, 
by  the  paucitie  of  labourers  in  the  worke  of  God  ther,  defireing  the 
recomendation  of  fome  to  help  to  fupplie  vacand  congregations  ther. 
The  Prefbyterie  recomended  this  to  the  brethren  nominate  for  the  for 
mer  bufines  with  the  minifters  of  St.  Andrewes,  to  confidder  heirof  and 
report. 

Apryle  22. — St.  Andrewes. — The  quhilk  day,  the  Prefbyterie  did  receive 
a  recomendation  granted  by  the  Synod  in  favours  of  the  toune  of  St. 
Andrewes,  for  a  colle6tion  for  advanceing  ther  harbour  and  ftone  bridge 
that  are  both  ruined.  The  Prefbyterie,  with  ther  owne  confent,  delayed  it 
for  a  tyme. 

September  2. — Conference  appointed  with  Balcormo  younger. — The  Prefby 
terie  being  informed  that  John  Arnot  younger  of  Balcormo,  continues  in 
the  groffe  finne  of  intemperance,  notwithftanding  the  Lords  hand  is  heavie 
vpon  him  in  a  greivous  difeafe,  and  has  laitlie  confefTed  adulterie,  doe 
nominate  Mr.  David  Forrett  and  Mr.  Robert  Bennett  to  conferre  with 
him,  and  hold  foorth  to  him  the  danger  of  his  finfull  way. 

September  1 6. — Dr.  Colvill  requeifted  to  write. — The  Prefbyterie,  having 
fein  and  confiddered  a  litle  booke  latelie  put  to  the  prefle  by  Do6tor  Col 
vill,  did  earneftlie  requeift  him  to  goe  about  more  of  that  kynd.1 

Depofed  Minifters  referred  to  the  Provinciatt. — The  Prefbyterie,  being  cer- 
tainlie  informed  of  the  great  diftreffe  and  povertie  quherin  thefe  Minifters 
quho  were  depofed  in  Angus  are,  doe  referre  the  confidderation  of  ther 
cafe  to  the  approaching  Synod. 

March  24,  1658. — Recomendation  to  Minifters,  and  reference  to  the  Synod 
anent  quartering  of  Souldieris. — The  Prefbyterie  doe  feriouflie  recomend 
it  to  minifters  in  burghes,  to  deale  als  effeduallie  as  they  can,  with  magi- 
ftrates  in  ther  feverall  refpe&ive  burghes,  that  no  fouldiers  be  quartered 
in  fuch  houfes  quher  women  only  remaine ;  and  doe  heirby  referre  to 
the  nixt  Synod  how  this  may  be  helped  throughout  the  bounds. 

July  7. — The  Prefbyterie  being  informed  that  of  late  ther  hath  bein  a 

1  This  "  litle  book"  was  probably  that  entitled  "  De  Loco  Parallelo,  obscuro  et  difficili 
Jacobi  cap.  4.  vers.  5  and  6,  Preelections  Quinque."  Edinburgh  1656,  4to. 

K 


74  THE  PRESBYTERY  MARCH  1659. 

buriall  in  the  kirk  [of  Pittenweeme],  contrair  to  Afts  of  the  General! 
Aflemblie,  did  difapprove  the  fame.  The  minifler  and  elders  declared 
that  ane  aft  is  paft  in  ther  Seffion  that  the  lyke  fall  not  be  heirafter. 

September  1. — Fajl  appointed.-~The  Prefbyterie,  confiddering  the  verie 
great  vnfeafonablenes  of  the  weather  by  a  great  raine  in  tyme  of  harveft, 
threatening  to  deftroy  the  fruites  of  the  ground,  did  aggree  that  ther  fall 
be  folemne  humiliation  and  calling  vpon  God  by  prayer  and  falling  within 
ther  bounds  the  nixt  Lords  day ;  and  to  continue  the  Lords  day  following, 
and  therafter  as  neid  fall  requyre. 

Mure,  Pyper. — The  quhilk  day,  diverfe  brethren  complained  that  John 
Mure,  pyper,  is  occafion  of  much  diflbrder  in  ther  congregations,  by  his 
pypeing  at  brythells,  and  vnfeafonable  drinkings.  The  faid  John  compeir- 
ing,  the  Prefbyterie  difcharged  him  to  play  at  any  brythells,  or  at  drunken 
lawings,  with  certification  if  he  be  found  to  contraveene,  he  will  be  pro- 
ceided  againft  with  the  higheft  cenfures  of  the  Kirk. 

December  1. — Fairfull  in  St.  Andrewes. — Compeared  William  Fairfull, 
quho  confeft,  the  fpeaches  vttered  by  him  anent  the  League  and  Covenant, 
and  of  the  Minifters  of  Chrift,  were  verie  rafh  and  finfull,  and  did  folemnlie 
vndertake  not  to  be  found  in  the  lyke  heirafter.  The  Prefbyterie  doe 
appoint,  that  he  be  fpoken  to  anent  thefe  fpeaches  publicklie  befor  the 
congregation  of  St.  Andrewes,  and  report  to  be  made  therof,  and  therafter 
are  to  confidder  quhat  further  to  doe  theranent. 

Februar  16, 1659. — Hamiltons  admiffion. — The  Prefbyterie  conveened  at 
Newburne  for  admiffion  of  Mr.  George  Hamilton  younger,  to  the  charge 
of  the  minifterie  ther. 

Februar  23. — Anent  Poland  Proteftants  banijhed. — The  Prefbyterie  having 
heard  of  the  diftrefTed  condition  of  many  banifhed  Proteftants  in  Poland 
and  the  confines  of  Bohemia,  for  whofe  releife  a  voluntar  contribution  is 
necefTar,  doe  referre  that  bufines  to  the  nixt  day. 

March  2. — Prindpatt  of  ilie  New  CoUedge  anent  Rait. — The  quhilk  day, 
Mr.  Samuell  Rutherfirird,  Principall  of  the  New  Colledge,  did  lay  befor 
the  Prefbyterie  his  verie  deepe  fenfe  of  the  vacancie  of  the  thrid  Matters 
charge  in  that  colledge,  and  his  verie  earneft  defire  to  have  it  planted  with 
a  godlie  and  able  man  ;  and  that  he  hath  bein  thinking,  how  to  have  Mr. 


AUG.  1659.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  75 

William  Raitt,  minifter  of  Brechin,  fettled  in  that  charge,  earneftlie 
intreating  the  Prefbyteries  advyce  and  concurrence  therin.  The  Prelby- 
terie  nominate  Mrs.  Robert  Blair,  James  Wood,  James  Bruce,  Andro 
Honyman,  Alexander  Wedderburne,  with  the  Moderator,  to  conferre  with 
the  Mailers  of  the  New  Colledge  theranent,  and  to  report  the  nixt  day. 

March  30. — Cokill  nominates  Sharp  for  the  New  CoUedae. — The  quhilk 
day,  Do6tor  Alexander  Colvill,  profeffor  of  divinitie  in  the  New  Colledge, 
having  laid  out  to  the  Prelbyterie  the  great  neid  of  having  the  thrid 
Mafters  place  ther  planted,  did  delire  the  Prefbyteries  concurrence  for 
planting  therof  by  Mr.  James  Sharp,  minifter  of  Craill. 

Apryle  1. — Whereas  both  the  matters  of  the  New  Colledge  being  verie 
fenlible  of  the  great  neid  there  is,  that  the  vacand  place  of  one  of  the 
Mafters  of  that  Colledge  be  fpeedilie  and  well  planted,  earneftlie  intreating 
the  Prelbyteries  concurrence  and  advyce  therin.  The  Prelbyterie,  being 
verie  fenfible  how  neceflar  it  is  that  this  be  done,  doe  feriouflie  and  earneft 
lie  recomend  the  mater  to  the  Synod  for  advyce  therin. 

May  11. — The  quhilk  day,  Mr.  Samuell  Rutherfuird  declared  to  the 
Prelbyterie,  that  he  adheres  to  his  nomination  of  Mr.  William  Raitt,  for 
the  vacand  charge  of  the  New  Colledge. 

May  12. — The  Prelbyterie,  conliddering  quhat  is  referred  to  them  in 
reference  to  planting  of  the  vacand  Mafters  place  in  the  New  Colledge, 
it  being  a  weightie  bulines,  and  many  brethren  abfent,  the  Moderator  ap 
pointed  to  write  to  all  the  abfent  brethren,  that  a  frequent  meeting  of  the 
Prelbyterie  may  be  at  the  kirk  of  Kembak  Tuefday  nixt,  at  eight  a  clocke 
in  the  morning,  for  conliddering  heirof. 

Junij  8. — The  brethren  delired  to  obferve  how  the  fynes  impofed  by 
Juftices  of  peace  vpon  fornicators  are  employed,  that  the  poore  be  not 
wronged  of  quhat  is  due  to  them  by  the  law. 

Aucjuft  31. — The  Prelbyterie,  conliddering  the  great  fcandall  committed 
by  fuch  quho  having  tokens  allowed  to  them  for  receiving  the  Sacrament 
of  the  Lords  Supper,  doe  not  make  vfe  therof  themfelves,  bot  give  them 
to  fuch  as  are  not  allowed  by  the  minifter  and  feffion  to  that  ordinance 
vpon  good  grounds,  doe  appoint  both  the  parties,  in  fuch  cafes,  to  be 
publicklie  rebuiked. 


76  THE  PRESBYTERY  JUNE  1660. 

Junij  6,  1660. — The  quhilk  day,  Mr.  Samucll  Rutherfuird,  Principal! 
of  the  New  Colledge,  intreated  the  Prefbyterie,  and  brethren  ioyned  with 
them  for  tlieir  advyce  and  concurrence,  in  planting  the  vacand  charge  in 
that  Colledge  by  Mr.  William  Raitt ;  quho  being  removed,  he  did  there 
after  prefent  a  fupplication  to  the  Prefbyterie  and  Commiflioners  of  the 
Synod,  defireing  ther  concurrence  toward  the  calling  of  Mr.  William 
Raitt,  or  if  that  be  not  obtained,  that  there  be  nothing  done  by  advyce  or 
otherwayes,  in  reference  to  the  fettling  of  the  vacand  place  in  the  New 
Colledge,  which  may  any  wayes  prejudge  the  full  and  frie  confultation  and 
determination  of  a  hoped  for  Generall  Aflemblie.  The  Prefbyterie  refolves 
to  doe  nothing  that  may  prejudge  the  mater  in  a  Generall  Aflemblie,  or 
bind  vp  there  owne  hands  from  voteing  frielie  therin. 

Junij  13. — Advyce  anent  Sharp  to  the  New  Colledge. — The  Pcefbyterie, 
confidering  the  minutes  of  the  former  day,  touching  the  planting  of  the 
New  Colledge,  appointed  the  enfueing  paper  to  be  drawin  vp,  and  approved 
of  it  as  ther  fenfe  in  that  mater.  Mr.  Samuell  Rutherfuird,  Principall  of 
the  New  Colledge,  diflented  from  the  paper,  and  defired  a  copie  therof 
vnder  the  Clerks  hand,  which  was  confented. 

"  Although  the  Prefbyterie,  and  others  ioyned  to  them  by  the  Synod, 
defired  the  Mafters  of  the  New  Colledge  to  give  in  quhat  overtures  they 
thought  fitt  to  facilitate  the  plantation  of  the  New  Colledge,  and  the 
fpeakers  quhat  they  had  to  fpeak  in  that  mater,  the  advyfing  quherin  was 
committed  to  them  by  the  Synod,  befor  they  fould  proceid  to  give  ther 
advyce  theranent,  and  the  faid  Mafters  were  pleafed  to  adde  nothing  to 
quhat  they  had  formerlie  fpoken ;  yet  efter  they  had  withdrawn,  and  the 
Prefbyterie  had  begun  to  give  ther  judgement,  Mr.  Samuell  Rutherfuird, 
Principall  of  the  New  Colledge,  came  in,  and  prefented  a  paper,  defireing 
the  Prefbyterie  either  to  concurre  with  him  in  calling  Mr.  William  Raitt, 
or  els  that  they  fould  doe  nothing  which  might  prejudge  the  libertie  of 
the  Generall  Aflemblie,  quho  had  power  to  call  to  that  ftation.  In  refe 
rence  to  which,  the  Prefbyterie  declares,  that  they  think  fitt  to  give  their 
advyce  in  this  mater,  and  that  in  order  to  obedience  of  the  Synod  calling 
them  to  it,  and  that  ther  giveing  ther  judgment  and  advyce  doeth  neither 
as  to  ther  intention  nor  vpon  the  mater  prejudge  the  libertie  of  the  Aflem- 


JAN.  1661.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  77 

blie  that  hath  power  to  call ;  neither  mynd  they  by  this  ther  advyce,  (if 
it  fall  take  no  effe6t),  to  prejudge  themfelves  or  ther  Commiffioners  of 
any  competent  libertie  of  judgeing  in  this  mater,  according  to  ther  call 
ing  in  any  Affemblie,  quherof  the  Lord  in  his  goodness  fall  give  them 
opportunitie. 

"  The  Prefbyterie,  having  received  ane  A6t  of  the  laft  Provinciall  Affem 
blie  at  Dunfermline,  appointing  them  with  fome  other  brethren  ioyned 
with  them,  to  give  ther  help  by  ther  advyce  to  the  Mailers  of  the  New 
College,  for  the  fpeedie  plantation  of  the  vacand  profeffion  of  Divinitie 
in  that  Colledge,  by  fome  perfon  fitted  and  qualified  for  that  place,  and 
confiddering  that  ther  worthie  brother  Mr.  James  Sharp,  minifter  at 
Craill,  quho,  for  his  pietie,  learning,  and  prudence,  is  eminentlie  fitted  and 
qualified  for  that  profeffion  in  this  Seminarie  of  the  Church,  and  that 
he  is  a  man  able  to  be  fpeciallie  vfefull  to  that  whole  Vniverfitie,  having 
bein  for  many  yeirs  a  member  and  profeflbr  of  philofophie  in  a  colledge 
ther ;  as  alfo,  confiddering  that  he  is  vnder  the  jurifdi&ion  of  the  Synod 
and  Prefbyterie,  and  may  be  more  eafilie  and  fpeedilie  tranfplanted  to 
that  place  than  any  other  quho  is  not  fo,  doe  therfor  give  ther  advyce  to 
the  Matters  of  the  New  Colledge  to  invite  and  call  him  to  that  place  and 
profeffion,  and  doe  promife  to  give  ther  concurrence  therto  to  the  utter- 
moft  of  their  power." 

November  7. — Derfy  and  Lathoker. — Sir  George  Morefone  and  Lathoker, 
referred  by  the  Seffion  of  St.  Andrews  to  the  Prefbyterie,  for  going  to  the 
fingle  combate,  were  called  and  compeired  not,  are  to  be  fummoned  to 
the  nixt  day. 

November  28. — A  letter  from  the  Lord  Chancelour  and  Earle  of  Rothes,for 
planting  Mr.  James  Sharpe  in  the  New  College. — This  day,  the  Prefbyterie 
receaved  a  letter  from  the  Lord  Chancelour  and  the  Earle  of  Rothes,  in 
reference  to  the  planting  of  the  charge  in  the  New  Colledge,  vacant  by 
Mr.  James  Woods  tranfportation  from  it,  defires  it  may  be  filled  by  Mr. 
James  Sharpe,  and  the  rather  becaufe  of  an  A6t  of  the  laft  Synode  relat 
ing  to  that  buffines.  The  diligence  heirin  is  referred  to  Dr.  Colvill. 

Januar  30,  1661. — The  Prefbyterie,  confiddering  that  matters  are  now 
or  may  be  in  agitation,  that  concerne  the  interefts  of  Chrifts  Kirke  in  this 


78  THE  PRESBYTERY  MAY  1661. 

land,  in  the  Parliament,  doe  appoint  ther  brethren  Mr.  David  Forrett, 
Mr.  Hary  Raymor,  to  attend  at  Edinburgh  and  feek  advyce,  and  do 
quhat  may  be  for  prefervation  of  the  interefts  of  Chrifts  Kirke  in  this 
land ;  and  this  without  prejudice  of  the  former  appointment. 

Februar  1 3. — Monnepennie  captive  among  ilie  Turks. — This  day  Thomas 
Monnepennie,  24  years  captive  among  the  Turks,  was  recomended  to  the 
feverall  Seflions. 

Aprylell. — Wheras,  the  Prefbyterie,  Apryle  1, 1661,  condifcended  vpon 
two  Papers,  the  one  intituled  A  Supplication  to  his  Grace  his  Majefties 
Commiffioner^  the  other,  AJeqfonable  Exhortation^  etc. ;  to  be  referred  and 
humblie  offered  to  the  coniidderation  of  the  Synode,  etc. ;  as  followeth  in 
the  A&  of  reference,  and  that  the  faid  two  papers  being  read  once  in  the 
audience  of  the  Synode,  and  the  judgement  of  fome  members  enquired 
thervpon,  before  the  judgement  and  vote  of  the  whole  Synode  could  be 
had  vpon  them ;  the  Synode  was,  by  a  noble  man  prefent  at  that  tyme, 
commanded  in  his  Majefties  name,  vnder  the  paine  of  rebellion,  prefently 
to  rife,  and  was  forthwith  broken  vp.  And  the  Prefbyterie,  having  now 
againe  taken  into  ferious  confideration  the  faidis  two  papers,  approves 
both  of  them  ;  and  that  as  to  the  matter  and  manner  as  containing  nothing 
but  that,  which  in  ther  judgement  as  juft  and  neceflarie  to  have  been 
done  by  the  Synode  in  this  tyme,  when  fundrie  wieghtie  matters  of  the 
reformed  religion  recieved,  profefied,  and  pradifed  in  this  Kingdome  and 
Kirke  are  in  apparent  danger ;  and  appoints  the  full  tenour  of  the  faids 
papers  to  be  infert  and  regiftrated  in  the  Prefbyterie  book,  ther  to  remaine 
ad  memoriam.1 

May  23. — It  is  appointed  by  the  Prefbyterie  that  everie  brother  of  the 
miniftrie  within  ther  bounds  on  the  nixt  Lords  day,  after  the  forenoone 
fermon,  fignifie  to  ther  refpedive  congregations,  that  the  Prefbyterie  hav 
ing  hard  that  the  Eftates  of  Parliament,  by  an  Ad  proclaimed  at  the 
market  crofTes  of  fome  townes  within  thefe  bounds,  required  that  on  Wed- 
nefday  nixt,  the  29  of  this  inftant  May,  ther  be  folemne  commemoration 
with  thankfgiveing  for  his  Majefties  happie  reftauration  to  his  throne. 
The  Prefbyterie,  being  verie  fenfible  of  the  great  mercie  of  God  towards 
1  These  papers  have  not,  however,  been  inserted. 


AUG.  1663.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  79 

thefe  lands  in  breaking  the  yoke  of  the  Ufurpers  tirrany  and  oppreffion  off 
the  neck  of  his  people  in  thefe  kingdoms,  and  reftoring  to  us  our  rightfull 
dread  foveraigne,  and  his  Majefties  lawfull  governement ;  and  being  very 
willing  to  evidence  and  teftifie  upon  every  occalion  ther  loyalty  and  cor- 
diall  affeftion,  which  they,  with  the  people  of  God  in  this  kingdome,  have 
always  borne  towards  his  Majefties  perfon  and  government,  and  the  per- 
fons  and  governement  of  his  royall  predeceffours,  hath  appointed  that 
every  minifter  of  this  Prelbyterie  fhall,  the  nixt  Lords  day,  warne  ther 
people  to  be  affembled  folemnely  the  faid  29  day  of  May  for  hearing 
fermon,  giving  thanks  to  God  for  that  his  great  mercy  of  reftoring  of  our 
King  to  his  juft  right,  and  for  praying  for  bliffings  to  his  perfon  and 
governement,  and  that  he  may  more  and  more  be  fitted  to  be  a  blifled 
inftrument  for  preferving  and  premoveing  the  truth  of  Religion  in  thefe 
lands  :  And  withall,  that  they  do  prudently  informe  ther  feverall  people, 
that  the  obfervation  of  fuch  dayes,  for  commemoration  of  fuch  a  fingular 
mercie,  doth  not  import  any  holynefs  in  the  day,  fuch  as  God  himfelfe 
hath  put  vpon  the  Sabbath  day,  which  none  but  God  himfelfe  can  put 
vpon  any  day. 

December  4. — [Mr.  John  Middletoune  admitted  minifter  at  Leuchars.] 

December  18. — This  day  was  received  from  the  Sheriffe  clearke  a  copy 
of  the  Secret  Counfells  aft,  for  praying  for  the  Queen,  Queen  Mother,  and 
the  Duke  of  Yorke  ;  which  they  willingly  yeeld  obedience  unto. 

October  15,  1662. — The  Prelbyterie  could  not  meete  before  this  day 
becaufe  of  the  lawes  and  proclamations  made  by  the  State,  inhibiting  the 
meeting  therof  as  formerly  conftitute.1 

December  21. — The  whilke  day,  the  Prelbyterie  mett  at  St.  Leonards 
College  kirke,  and  did  admitt  Mr.  James  Weems  to  the  miniftrie  ther. 

Graill,  Auguft  5,  1663. — [Mr.  Alexander  Edward  tranfported  from  Din- 
ninow,  and  admitted  minifter  at  Craill.] 

September  24. — [Mr.  George  Patullo  tranfported  from  Newtyle  in  Angus, 
and  admitted  minifter  at  Kinglbarns.] 

September  30. — [Mr.  John  Auchenlaike  tranfported  from  Inchture  in 
Angus,  and  admitted  minifter  at  Newburn.] 

1  There  had  been  no  meeting  since  1 5  January  previous. 


80  THE  PRESBYTERY  MAY  1664. 

November  11. — [This  day,  Mr.  William  Moore  was  admitted  minifter  of 
Dininow.] 

Aprile  20,  1664. — This  day  Mr.  John  Auchinlaike,  minifter  of  New- 
burne,  gave  in  a  reference  from  ther  Seffion  to  the  Prefbyterie,  contain 
ing  two  fcandals  committed  by  Robert  Fairfull,  parifhoner  ther ;  firft,  in 
that  he  profained  the  facred  name  of  God,  and  in  his  difcourfe  in  the  ale- 
houfe  did  make  a  mocke  of  the  praifes  given  by  the  congregation  to  the 
blefled  Trinity,  ufeing  thefe  words,  "  This  to  yow  Brother,  Glory  to  the 
Father,  and  the  Sone,  and  to  the  Holy  Ghoft  ;"  and  defired  George 
Fleeming  to  write  in  his  letter,  "  Glory  to  the  Father  and  the  Sone,"  in 
a  moft  contemptuous  manner.  2dly,  In  that  he  called  the  publick  read 
ing  of  the  Holy  Scriptures,  and  the  fmging  of  Pfalmes  before  the  minifter 
came  to  the  pulpit,  the  Mefie,  ufeing  thefe  wordes,  "  They  are  buffie  with 
in  at  the  Mefle,  and  yon  is  the  old  Mefle  got  up  again."  Thefe  fcandals 
being  judged  by  the  Seffion  to  be  too  confiderable  for  them  to  determine 
in,  have  referred  them  to  the  Prefbyterie  to  be  tryed  by  them,  and  have 
appointed  the  faid  Robert  to  attend  ther  meeting.  The  Prefbyterie,  after 
ferious  confideration  of  the  faid  reference,  appointed  him  to  be  called  in 
before  them.  He  not  compeiring,  they  ordaine  George  Nairne,  officer  to 
the  Prelbyterie,  to  fummond  him  pro  2do.  againft  the  nixt  day. 

May  4. — Robert  Fairfull  being  called  compeired,  and  being  interrogated 
anent  the  accufations  given  in  againft  him.  As  to  the  firft  article,  con 
fiding  of  two  parts,  firft,  in  profaning  the  facred  name  of  God,  and  in  his 
difcourfe  in  the  alehoufe,  mocking  at  the  Doxologie,  ufeing  the  wordes 
as  formerly  fet  downe ;  2dly,  in  defireing  George  Fleeming  to  write  in 
his  letter  as  before :  The  firft  he  fimplie  denyed ;  the  fecond  he  granted 
he  fpoke,  but  for  his  vindication  he  faid,  "  Ther  are  many  which  begin 
ther  letters  with  Laus  Deo;"1  and  he  thinking  that  none  wold  offend  at 
quhat  he  faid,  he  defired  his  brother  write  fo  in  his  letter,  becaufe  he  faw 
him  long  in  beginning  of  it.  As  for  the  fecond,  his  calling  the  publique 
reading  of  the  Scriptures  the  Maffe,  he  faid,  he  wold  neither  deny  it  nor 
confefle  it. 

'  "  Laos  Deo !  was  the  first  entry  by  merchants  and  tradesmen  of  our  forefathers'  days,  in 
beginning  their  new  account  books  with  the  new  year." — Hone's  Every  Day  Book. 


DEC.  1664.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  81 

The  Prefbyterie,  finding  him  to  prevaricate,  appointed  George  Nairne 
to  fummond  the  witnefies  againft  the  nixt  day. 

Maij  18. — Robert  Fairfull  being  called  compiered.  He,  as  formerly, 
perlifted  in  denyall.  The  witneffes  fummond  for  to  declaire  quhat  they 
knew  in  his  buffinefs  compiered,  to  quhom  the  Prefbyterie  fignified,  that 
they  were  hopefull  to  prevaile  with  Robert  Fairfull  another  way,  and 
therefore  delayed  the  receiving  of  ther  declarations  this  day.  Robert 
Fairfull  was  appointed  to  attend  the  meeting  of  the  bretheren  at  the  Arch- 
bifhops  houfe. 

Junij  1. — Robert  Fairfull  referred  back  by  the  Prefbyterie  to  the 
Seffion  of  Newburne,  and  Mr.  John  Auchinlaike  is  to  make  report  to  the 
Prefbyterie  quhat  fatiffa6tion  he  maketh  to  them. 

Junij  15. — Mr.  John  Auchinlaike,  minifter  at  Newburne,  according  to 
the  Prefbyteries  order,  made  report  that  Robert  Fairfull  had  fatiffied  ther 
Seffion  ;  quherupon  the  bretheren  declared  themfelves  wel  pleafed,  and  are 
to  proceed  no  further  in  that  matter. 

Julij  1 5. — This  day,  Mr.  William  Moore  was  admitted  minifter  at  St. 
Andrews. 

Julij  26. — The  whilke  day,  Mr.  James  Rattary  was  admitted  minifter 
at  St.  Mennans.1 

September  1. — The  Prefbyterie  conveened  at  Kemboke  for  the  admiffion 
of  Mr.  Robert  Glafford. 

September  21. — The  Prefbyterie  conveened  at  Carnbee  for  the  admiffion 
of  Mr.  Andro  Bruce  to  be  minifter  ther. 

December  1 5. — The  Prefbyterie  conveened  at  Dininnow  in  order  to  Mr. 
John  Barclay's  admiffion  to  be  minifter  ther. 

December  28. — This  day,  a  letter  dire&ed  to  the  Moderator  from  my 
Lord  Archbifhop  was  read,  intimating  as  followeth. 

ABBY,  December  28,  1664. 
REVEREND  BROTHER, 

WHERAS  we  finde  that  Mrs.  James  M'Gill,  Robert  Weems,  David  Guthrie,  Robert  Bennett, 
Alexander  Wedderburne  do  obstinately  persist  in  ther  way  of  separation  from  ther  bretheren, 
and  contempt  of  authoritie,  and  disobedience  to  the  laws,  to  the  great  prejudice  of  the  Gospell, 

1  He  was  deposed  in  January  1682  for  not  taking  the  Test  oath. 

L 


82  THE  PRESBYTERY  MAY"l665. 

and  scandal  of  the  orderly  ministers  therof ;  therfore  we  shall  desire  yow  to  make  intimation 
to  each  of  them,  that  if  they  do  not  appear  at  the  nixt  meeting  of  the  bretheren  of  the  Exercise, 
which  is  to  be  holden  at  St.  Andrews  the  llth  day  of  Januarie  nixt,  and  then  declaire  that 
they  are  resolved  thence  forth  to  concurre  with  ther  bretheren  in  the  exercise  of  the  word  and 
discipline,  and  accordinglie  give  ther  assistance  as  the  law  doth  require  in  all  ecclesiastical  1 
meetings  for  suppressing  of  sin  and  edification  of  the  Church  of  Christ  in  godliness  and  unitie, 
they  are  to  expect,  that  after  all  Christian  means  used  for  ther  reclaiming,  we  will  forbear  no 
longer  to  cause  execute  the  sentence  of  the  diocesian  Synode  against  them.  We  recommend 
yow  and  the  bretheren  to  the  spirit  and  grace  of  Jesus  Christ,  in  whom  I  am 

Your  loving  Brother, 

ST.  ANDREWS. 

An  copy  of  which,  with  a  letter  from  the  Moderator,  was  fent  to  eacli 
of  the  aboue  named  bretheren  by  George  Nairne. 

Aprile  26,  1665. — This  day  was  delivered  to  the  Moderator  the  execu 
tion  of  the  fentence  of  the  diocefian  Synode  ferved  att  the  Synodes  com 
mand  againft  the  diffatiflfied  bretheren  Mrs.  James  M'Gill,  Robert  Bennet, 
Robert  Weems,  Alexander  Wedderburne,  David  Guthrie,  which  was  red. 
They  being  abfent  as  formerly,  neither  any  report  from  them  being  made 
to  the  Prefbyterie,  ther  places  are  vacand  by  the  A&  of  the  Synode,  and 
are  fo  to  be  holden. 

May  to. — In  obedience  to  the  A&  of  the  Synode  annent  the  additional 
fupplies  for  the  Univerfities,  thefe  bretheren  gave  an  account  of  quhat  was 
ther  modified  ftipends. 

Mr.  William  Moore,  minifterof  St.  Andrews,  1200  merks ;  payes  36  lib. 

Mr.  John  Auchinlaik,  of  Newburne,  4  chalders  vi&ual  with  400  merks  ; 
payes  24  lib. 

Mr.  John  Middletone,  Leuchars,  7  chalders  vi&uall  and  an  halfe,  with 
40  lib. ;  payes  24  lib. 

Mr.  John  Barclay,  of  Dininnow,  five  chalders  vi&ual  and  80  lib.;  payes. . . 

Mr.  George  Patulo,  Kingfbarns,  8  chalders  vi&ual ;  payes  24  lib. 

Mr.  Andro  Bruce,  Carnbee,  7  chalders  vi&ual,  180  lib.;  payes  28  lib. 

May  24. — Thefe  bretheren  gave  up  the  rentals  of  ther  modified  ftipend  : 

Mr.  James  Rattary,  St.  Mennans,  6  chalders  vi&ual  with  200  merks ; 
payes  24  lib. 

Mr.  Alexander  Edward,  Crail,  10  chalders  vi&ual;  payes  30  lib. 


JAN.  1666.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  83 

Kemboke  ftipend  not  being  well  known  to  the  minifter  as  yet,  onely  he 
thinks  it  to  be  four  chalders  vi&ual  with  an  100  lib. 

Junij.  1 4— Mr.  Andrew  Bruce  junior  admitted  to  the  church  of  Kil- 
rinny. 

All  the  bretheren  obferved  the  thankfgiving  on  May  29,  and  the  faft 
on  the  7th  June.  It  was  informed  alfo,  that  the  bretheren  quho  deny  ther 
meeting  with  us,  though  they  obferved  both,  yet  did  not  read  the  Proclama 
tion. 

Junij  28. — The  bretheren  are  to  confult  quhat  courfe  is  to  be  taken  for 
caufeing  the  ftudents  in  the  New  Colledge  ftudy  carefully  the  Hebrew 
tounge. 

Julij  9. — The  bretheren  refolve,  in  order  to  make  the  ftudents  in  the 
New  Colledge  ftudy  the  Hebrew,  that  none  of  them  fhall  be  approven  in 
ther  tryalls  quho  cannot  expound  the  firft  ten  pfalmes  ad  aperturam  libri ; 
and  that  the  Redor  give  them  notice  therof  the  nixt  publicque  leflbne. 

Auyuji  30. — This  day,  tfie  Prefbyterie  mette  at  Forgane  according  to 
appointment,  admitted  Mr.  John  Alexander  minifter  ther. 

September  28. — This  day,  the  Prefbyterie  frequently  mette  for  admiffion 
of  Mr.  Alexander  Younge  to  be  Archdeacone  of  St.  Andre wes.i 

November  1 5. — A&s  of  the  Synode. — The  Lord  Archbifhop  and  Synode 
taking  to  ther  confideration  that  reference  concerning  Robert  Small,  and 
finding  that  the  bretheren  off  Megill  had  done  nothing  in  it,  appoint  that 
the  bretheren  off  Dumfermline,  and  whofoever  elfe  have  any  evidences  off 
divination,  or  unlawfull  means  off  healing  off  difeafes,  or  finding  that 
which  is  lofed  or  ftollen,  uled  by  that  man,  that  they  fend  them  to  the 
bretheren  off  Megill  betuixt  this  and  the  nixt  Synode ;  as  alfo,  that  the 
people  who  feek  to  him  in  thes  unlawfull  wayes,  be  challenged  and  cen- 
fured  accordinglie  be  ther  own  minifters. 

Januar  30,  1666. — Mr.  John  Middeltoune  having  alked  the  bretherens 
advise  about  guizers  in  his  paroch,  is  referred  to  the  nixt  day. 

Mr.  Robert  Glafford  having  told  the  brethren  that  his  fcoolmafter  flatlie 
refufed  to  obey  the  Ads  off  the  Synod  anent  reading  and  finging  the 

1  He  was  minister  at  Cramond. 


84  THE  PRESBYTERY  JUNE  1666. 

Doxologie,  and  procuring  a  licence  from  my  Lord  Archbifhop,  the  Prefby- 
terie  thought  fitt  he  fuld  be  difcharged  of  his  office. 

Februar  14. — Anent  guizers  in  Mr.  Johne  Middeltones  paroch,  he  is 
advifed  to  proceed  againft  them  as  fcandalous  perfons ;  and  iff  they  prove 
difobedient,  to  charge  them  before  the  Prelbyterie. 

March  14. — [Mr.  William  Ogilvey  indu&ed  minifter  at  Newburne.] 

Aprile  11. — Mr.  Andro  Bruce,  minifter  off  Carnbie,  having  dilated 
Margret  Guthrie  in  the  faid  parofch  for  the  finne  off  vitchcraft,  and  having 
proceeded  againft  hir  in  the  Seflion  of  Carnbie,  did  give  in  the  proceffe, 
which  is  referred  to  the  afternoon. 

Pq/l  meridiem. — That  proceffe  which  was  given  in  in  the  fornoon  by 
Mr.  Andro  Bruce,  minifter  of  Carnbie,  againft  Margret  Guthrie,  fcandalous 
for  many  yeares  for  vitchcraft,  was  read  before  the  brethren,  who  fand  in 
it  a  number  of  forceries  and  malefices  made  out  againft  hir ;  and  that 
notwithftanding  of  thes  things  made  out  againft  hir,  fhe  is  obftinate.  The 
brethren,  becaufe  off  the  veightines  and  difficultie  off  the  matter,  and  the 
near  approach  off  the  diocefiane  meeting,  do  referre  the  faid  proceffe  to 
the  Lord  Archbifhop  and  Synod. 

May  2. — ASt  for  the  Hebrew. — For  the  ftirring  up  of  young  men  for  the 
ftudieing'of  the  Hebrew  mor  accuratlie,  it  is  appointed,  that  whofoever 
fliall  not  giv  latiffa&ione  in  the  Hebrew,  in  exponing  anie  of  the  firft 
30  pialmes  ad  aperturam  libri,  fo  much  fhall  be  fignified  in  ther  tefti- 
monies. 

Ckdhrie  jiifpeft  of  Witchcraft. — Margret  Guthrie  fufpe&  of  witchcraft 
in  the  parifh  of  Carnbie,  who  was  referred  to  my  Lord  Archbifhop  and 
Synod,  being  put  in  firmance  befor  the  Synod  by  my  Lord  Kellie,  at  the 
defire  of  my  Lord  Archbifhop,  the  reference  was  not  medled  with  by  the 
Synod,  bot  left  to  the  Prefbyterie :  Therfor  the  Moderator,  Mr.  Alexan 
der  Edward,  Mr.  Andrew  Bruce  at  Carnbie,  and  Mr.  Alexander  Leflie, 
ar  appointed  to  deal  with  hir  at  ther  own  conveniencie,  for  bringing  hir 
to  a  confeflione,  till  the  judge  competent  fhould  difpofe  of  hir. 

May  24. — [Mr.  Robert  White,  tranfported  from  Inchture,  admitted 
minifter  at  Ferrie-parton-craig.] 

June  13. — Small. — As  concerning  that'  reference  relating  to  Robert 


SEPT.  1666.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  85 

Small,  the  brethren  appointed  to  conferre  with  him,  Mr.  Walter  Bruce, 
Robert  Honyman,  Jon  Auchenleck,  and  David  Pattoun,  reported,  that 
by  his  own  confeffione  they  find  him  guiltie  of  drunkenes,  of  prevarica- 
tione,  and  of  pretending  (kill  in  divining  wher  ftollen  goodes  ar  to  be 
found,  although  reallie  he  hath  non,  and  of  abufing  the  name  of  God  in 
his  papers  given  out  for  finding  thefe  ftollen  goodes ;  and  findes  him  fen- 
(ible  of  his  iinne,  and  forrie  for  it,  promifing,  through  the  Lords  ftrength, 
never  to  doe  the  lik  againe.  The  Lord  Archbifliop  and  Synod  appoint 
that  he  appeere  befor  fom  congregationes  within  the  Prefbyterie  of  Megill, 
confefs  his  (in,  and  profefs  his  repentance  for  it,  and  ingage  himfelf  to  doe 
no  mor  fo  ;  and  that  this  be  intimat  to  all  the  congregationes  within  the 
Pre(byterie ;  which  the  faid  Robert  acquiefced  to,  and  promifed  to  doe 
whenever  he  (hould  be  appointed  by  the  Prelbyterie  of  Megill. 

Inerkeithing. — The  fupplicatione  of  the  magiftrates  and  town  counfell 
of  the  burgh  of  Inerkeithing,  grounded  upon  the  A6t  of  the  Lordes  of 
Privie  Counfell,  for  a  voluntarie  contributione  throuhout  all  the  pariflies 
of  the  diocefs,  for  repairing  of  the  ancient  and  ufefull  Herbore  of  the  faid 
burgh,  was  read,  granted ;  and  all  the  minifters  within  the  diocefs  wer  ap 
pointed  to  intimat  the  faid  colle6tione,  and  gather  the  fam  att  ther  firft 
conveniencie,  and  to  deliver  the  fam  to  ther  refpe6tive  Moderatores,  that 
by  them  it  may  be  tranfmitted  to  James  Bennett,  bailzie  of  the  faid 
burgh,  colle&or  of  the  faid  colle&ione. 

Papiftes  and  Quakers. — If  ther  be  anie  perlbnes  inclining  to  Poperie  or 
Quakerifm,  they  ar  to  be  dilated  to  the  Lord  Archbiftiop,  that  a  courfe 
may  be  taken  with  them. 

Uniformitie. — Moderatores  ar  to  take  notice  of  the  uniformitie  of  min 
ifters  in  ther  pra&ife  of  caufing  the  Creed  to  be  recited  at  baptifm,  and  of 
(inging  the  Doxologie,  and  of  making  ufe  of  the  Lords  prayer  in  publick. 

Sabbath  prophaned. — Wher  the  Sabbath  is  profand  by  men  ryding  upon 
that  day,  minifters  ar  to  mak  that  knowen  to  the  magiftrates  of  that  toun 
wher  fuch  horfe  is  hyred. 

September  19. — Advice  anent  Witchcraft. — Mr.  John  Alexander  a(kes  the 
advice  of  the  brethren  what  he  (hall  doe  with  one  Ifobell  Key,  in  the 
parifh  of  Forgon,  fufpeft  of  witchcraft  and  malefices  don  by  hir  ?  The 


86  THE  PRESBYTERY  APRIL  1669. 

brethren  defires  he  may  giv  in  all  that  can  be  faid  againft  liir  in  writ, 
againft  the  nixt  day,  and  then  they  will  be  mor  clear  in  giving  him  ther 
advice. 

O&ober  1,  1667. — Quakers  of  Fettereffb. — The  minifter  of  Fettereflb  is 
appointed  to  go  on  with  the  cenlbur  of  the  Kirk  againft  the  quakers  with 
in  his  paroch,  that  he  caufe  cit  them  befor  the  Prelbyterie  and  Sefcion, 
and  if  they  be  not  reclaim'd  from  ther  errours  that  he  proceed  againft 
them  with  the  higheft  cenfurs  of  the  Kirk  in  dew  maner. 

November  20. — [Mr.  Paul  Methven  admitted  minifter  at  Danunow.] 

Aprile  1,  1668. — The  Lord  Archbilhop  declaired,  that  he  had  keept  a 
vifitation  at  Dumbfennling ;  that  he  had,  upon  good  ground,  depofed  Mr. 
Robert  Edmiftoune,  minifter  at  Culrofs ;  and  as  for  Mr.  Mathew  Fleem- 
ing,  his  collegue,  the  Archbifhop  delayed  to  proceed  againft  him,  feing 
ther  wer  fome  hopes  of  gaining  him ;  and  for  that  end  Mrs.  Walter  Bruce, 
William  Perfone,  John  Shaw,  are  appointed  to  tell  him  that  he  is  noticed 
that  he  hes  not  joyned  with  hes  brethren  of  the  Prelbyterie. 

Anjiruther  Wefter,  May  13. — The  which  day,  the  Prelbyterie  conveened 
for  the  admiflion  of  Mr.  David  Taylior  to  be  minifterie  ther. 

Gibb  appointed  to  appear  in  Sackcloath  at  tlie  Church  door. — Mr.  James 
Ratteray  declaired,  that  he  had  been  dealing  with  Marion  Gibb,  according 
as  he  was  appointed,  and  that  he  found  her  ftill  diflembling.  The  brethren 
appoint  that  Mr.  James  caufe  her  appear  at  the  church  doore  in  fack- 
cloath  on  the  Lords  day,  from  the  ringing  of  the  fecond  bell  till  prayer 
before  fermon  be  ended,  and  that  then  Ihe  go  to  the  place  of  publicque 
repentance,  if  peradventure  Ihe  may  be  winne  therby,  and  that  Ihe  remove 
before  prayer  after  fermon  begin.1 

Camerone,  June  24. — The  which  day,  the  Prelbyterie  conveened  for  the 
admiflion  of  Mr.  James  Williamfone  to  the  minifterie  ther. 

June  30,  1669. — The  which  day,  the  Prelbyterie  conveened  for  admif- 
fion  of  Mr.  John  Chriftifone  to  the  miniftrie  att  Kembock. 

Aprill  21. — Quakers. — The  Lord  Archbilhop  and  Synod  being  informed 
that  in  Merns  and  in  the  parilh  of  Fettereflb  were  keept  feverall  conventi 
cles  by  Quakers,  who  interrupted  fome  minifters  in  the  time  of  publicque 

She  was  accused  of  incest,  which  she  afterwards  confessed. 


OCT.  1669.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  87 

worfhip,  and  fpoke  reproachfully  of  minifters ;  the  minifters  ther  wer  ad- 
vifed  to  be  diligent  in  watching  over  ther  flocks,  and  guarding  them 
againft  thefe  errors,  and  wait  till  a  courfe  be  taken  by  the  magiftrate 
with  thefe  diforderly  perfons.1 

The  Lord  Archbifhop  and  Synod  taking  to  ther  confideration  the  fup- 
plication  of  the  magiftrates  and  towne  councell  of  the  brugh  of  Kirkcaldie 
for  a  colledion  to  the  building  of  the  new  harbour  of  the  faid  brugh,  which 
worke  was  interrupted  through  the  trebles  of  the  time ;  they  grant  the 
faid  fupplication,  providing  the  petitioners  finde  fecurity  that  quhat  money 
is  delivered  to  them  fhall  be  beftowed  on  the  faid  work ;  and  appoint 
that  all  the  minifters  within  the  diocefs  collect  for  the  faid  end  as  foon  as 
conveniently  they  may. 

It  is  appointed,  that  no  minifter  be  abfent  from  his  charge  two  Sabbath 
dayes  togither  without  leave  from  the  Moderator,  and  that  they  give  fuch 
an  excufe  of  ther  abfence  as-lhall  be  appro ven;  withall  minifters  are  to 
be  carefull  to  provide  for  ther  people  quhen  they  are  from  home  them- 
felfe.  The  Moderators  are  to  enquire,  if  all  the  minifters  within  ther  bounds 
preach  twife  each  Sabbath,  and  if  they  ordinarly  keep  home. 

O&ober  6. — The  Archbifhop  and  Synod  think  that  the  Parliament  is 
to  be  fpoken  unto  for  ratefying  of  the  old  A6t  for  planting  of  fchooles  in 
each  parifli. 

The  Archbiihop  and  Synod  having  a  fupplication  from  the  towne  of 
Couper  prefented  before  them,  quherin  they  fupplicate  that  a  charitable 
contribution  may  be  granted  unto  them  throughout  all  the  parifh  churches 
of  the  diocefs,  in  regard,  that  upon  the  ....  day  of  Aprile  laft,  a  fire 
broke  out  accidentally  in  the  faid  towne,  about  one  after  midnight,  and 
diftroyed  about  twentie  considerable  families,  quite  ruined  ther  whole 
houfes,  and  brought  the  faid  perfones  to  great  ftraits  ;  therfore,  the  faid 
petitioners,  having  obtained  an  A6t  of  his  Majefteis  Secreet  Counfell,  for  a 
voluntarie  contribution  to  the  fupply  of  the  faid  perfons,  throughout  all 
the  townes  and  parifhes  of  the  fhires  of  Ffyffe,  the  three  Lothians,  Mers, 
Perth,  and  Angus  ;  The  Lord  Archbiihop  and  Synod,  confidering  the  pre- 

1  "  October  25,  1668.  This  day,  Thomas  Craigie  and  John  Durrett  were  before  the  pulpitt  for 
hearing  two  of  the  Quakers  sermons  att  Urie,  and  were  receaved." — Fetteresso  Kirk  Sess.  Records. 


88  THE  PRESBYTERY  MAY  1671. 

miflis,  appoint  that  a  charitable  contribution  be  colle&ed  throughout  all 
the  parifh  churches  within  the  diocefs  of  St.  Andrews,  and  that  between 
this  and  Candlemais  nixt,  that  collection  be  gone  about  and  ended ;  pro- 
vyding  alway,  that  the  magiftrates  of  Couper  appoint  faithfull  and  honeft 
men  to  receive  the  fame  from  the  feverall  Moderators  of  the  Prefbyterie, 
(quho  are  to  receive  the  fame  from  the  minifters,)  and  to  fee  that  the 
fame  be  faithfully  diftribute  to  the  perfons  damnified  by  that  fire,  at  the 
frght  of  the  magiftrates  and  minifters,  as  they  will  be  anfwerable  to  the 
Lordes  of  his  Majefteis  Secreit  Counfell.1 

May  11,  1670. — Shattitjupplied. — This  day,  a  fupplication  was  prefented 
to  the  Prefbyterie  by  Paul  Shallit,  a  converted  Jew,  wherein  he  deiired  the 
oharitie  of  the  brethren,  in  regard  he  was  in  mean  condition,  and  minded 
forthwith  to  go  into  Ingland  if  he  had  aney  thing  to  bear  his  expenfe. 
The  Prefbyterie  granted  him  his  defire,  and  gave  him  fome  fupply. 

April  1 3. — The  Ad  of  Parliament  in  favours  of  the  brugh  of  Dondie, 
for  a  voluntar  contribution  to  them,  for  reparation  of  ther  herbour  and 
great  lofs  of  fhipps  through  the  ftorme  in  October  1668,  [being  read,] 
the  Archbilhop  and  Synod  refolve  to  take  this  to  ther  confideration,  and 
to  appoint  a  tyme  for  that  collection. 

Otiober  5. — The  Lord  Archbifhop  and  Synod,  being  informed  that  fome 
perfones  go  to  the  Border  and  marrie  ther,  conteming  the  order  of  the 
Church,  judge  that  they  fhould  be  delated  to  the  civill  magiftrate,  that 
they  may  be  fined  according  to  law,  and  that  they  be  put  to  a  publicque 
declaration  of  ther  repentance,  and  be  fufpended  from  the  facrament,  for 
violating  the  order  of  the  Church ;  and  that  minifters  be  carefull  to  give 
in  the  names  of  fuch  perfons  to  the  Synod  att  the  nixt  meeting,  and  quhat 
they  have  done  in  ther  cenfure. 

May  3,  1671.— The  A&  of  Parliament  of  the  date  23d  December  1669, 
appointing  a  contribution  for  the  Incorporation  of  the  Scotts  att  London, 
being  read,  the  Archbifhop  and  Synod  ordaines,  that  this  contribution  be 

1  A  similar  supplication,  which  was  also  granted  by  the  Synod,  was  presented  the  same  day 
from  the  town  of  Kilmarnock,  bearing,  "  that  quheras  upon  the  22  of  May  1668,  the  whole 
towne  was  burnt  unto  ashes  by  a  violent  fire  that  accidentally  broke  out,  and  about  1 20  fami 
lies  were  cast  out  of  all  habitation,  and  brought  to  poverty  and  beggery." 


JAN.  1673.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  89 

intimate  and  gathered  by  all  the  minifters  of  the  diocefs,  both  in  burgh 
and  land,  betueen  this  and  the  nixt  Synod. 

The  fupplication  of  the  brugh  of  Dondee,  Kilrynny,  and  St.  Monance, 
for  contributions  to  the  repairing  of  ther  harbours,  are  to  be  taken  to  con- 
fideration  in  due  time. 

November  8. — The  which  day,  the  Prefbyterie  conveened  in  order  to  the 
admiffion  of  Mr.  John  Wood  to  the  miniftrie  att  Kilrinny. 

Aprile  3,  1672. — [Mr.  Andrew  Auchinlaike  admitted  minifter  at  Din- 
innow.] 

December  4. — Ijbel  Lyndfay  rayling  on  my  Lord  St.  Andrews. — Dodor 
Moor  reprefented  to  the  brethren,  that  Ifbell  Lyndfay,  fpoufe  to  John 
Wilfone  in  St.  Andrews,  who  was  banilhed  the  towne  by  the  magiftrats, 
for  hir  rayling  againft  my  Lord  Archbifhop  in  time  of  Gods  publik  wor- 
fhip,  having  returned  fome  weeks  agoe  to  the  towne,  and  being  connived 
at  in  hope  of  hir  future  good  behaviour,  yit  notwithftanding,  had  the  laft 
Lords  day  faue  one,  uttered  fome  reviling  fpeeches  againft  the  faid  Arch- 
biftiop  and  his  Lady  at  his  entry  to  his  fermon,  to  the  great  fcandal  of  the 
congregation ;  and  therfor  was  immediatly  incarcerate  by  the  magiftrats. 

The  Prejbiteries  resolution  theranent. — The  brethring,  ferioufly  considering 
the  greatnes  of  the  fcandal,  and  the  bad  preparative  and  ill  example  ther- 
of,  thoght  fitt  to  advife  with  his  Grace  anent  ther  duty  in  relation  therto, 
and  refolued,  to  goe  immediatly  to  the  Abby  on  that  effect,  and  to  meett 
tomorrow. 

December  5. — TJie  Prejbiterie  appoint  Jume  to  confer  with  hir. — The  bre 
thring  being  mett,  and  being  left  by  the  Archbiihop  to  ther  own  prudence 
to  aft  in  that  matter  as  they  thoght  convenient,  fo  that  God  might  be 
glorified,  and  the  fcandal  remoued,  and  the  perfon  broght  to  a  fenfe  of 
hir  guiltines,  ordined  the  Moderator,  the  minifters  of  St.  Andrews,  St. 
Leonards,  and  Creil,  to  confer  with  hir  in  prifon,  and  to  indeavour  to  bring 
hir  to  a  fenfe  of  hir  fin ;  and  to  report  the  nixt  day  of  our  meitting,  which 
is  to  be  on  the  1ft  of  January  nixt,  in  refpeft  that  Chriftmefs  is  this  day 
twenty  dayes. 

January  1,  1 673. — The  Brethrens  report  anent  Lyndfay. — The  brethring 
appointed  to  confer  with  Ifbel  Lyndfay,  reported  that  fhe  was  obftinate, 

M 


90  THE  PRESBYTERY  AUG.  1675. 

and  that  the  magiftrats  had  refolved  to  infli&  civil  punifhment  on  hir, 
and  baniflie  hir  the  toune ;  wherfor,  the  brethring  appointed  Do&or  Moor 
to  labor  to  bring  hir  to  convi&ion  befor  hir  remouel ;  and  if  fhe  fhuld  ftil 
continue  obftinate  and  malicious,  to  declare  the  haynoufhes  of  hir  fin 
befor  the  face  of  the  congregation,  and  defire  them  not  to  be  fcandalized 
by  hir  wicked  example,  and  that  fhe  was  a  perfon  uncapable  of  difcipline, 
and  unworthy  of  chriftian  fociety. 

Kilconquw,  19  November. — [Mr  William  Hey  admitted  minifter  there.] 
Kembok,  4  June  1674. — [Mr.  George  Landels  admitted  minifter  there.] 
Fargan,  12  Augufl. — [Mr.  William  Scot  admitted  minifter  there.1] 
O&ober  27. — James  Lodian,  fyc.  Jumond  pro  3to- — Anent  James  Lodian 
and  his  wife  Elizabeth  Key,  and  Helen  Heggie,  not  only  fcandalous  for 
keeping  of  Conventicles,  and  foliciting  of  others  to  the  like  diibrderly  prac- 
tifes,  but  alfo  guilty  of  withdrawing  themfelfs  from  Gods  publick  worfhip 
eury  Sabboth,  and  contempt  both  of  the  Word  and  facrament  of  the  Lords 
Supper,  and  of  the  publick  miniftery,  both  in  do&rine  and  difcipline,  in 
that  parifli  of  Kingfbarns,  and  profanatione  of  the  Lords  day,  now  for  a 
long  time ;  the  minifter  declared,  that  the  faid  James  Lodian  vas  fo  far 
from  acknowledging  his  finnes,  orpromifeing  to  waitte  upone  Gods  publick 
worfhip,  and  receauing  the  facrament  as  ane  indifpenfable  deuty,  that  he 
wold  not  fuffer  the  word  of  exhortatione,  but  added  this  to  his  former  fins 
in  reviling  the  minifter,  and  calling  his  do&rine  rayling.  Therfor,  he  had 
not  only  fumoned  his  wife,  and  Helen  Heggie,  and  James  Lodian,  pro  2° 
by  his  beddall,  as  was  ordained,  but  further,  they  were  appointed  to  be 
fummond  pro  3°. 

July  21,  1675. — This  day,  Dr.  Edward  reported,  that  thair  was  on 
Geilles  Robertfone,  in  the  toune  of  Craill,  fufpe&  of  witchcraft,  and  im- 
prifoned  vpon  that  account ;  and  therfore  defyred,  that  fome  of  the  bre 
thren  might  be  appointed  to  afTift  him  in  conferring  with  her.  The  bre- 
theren  appoynt  the  Moderator,  Mrs.  Wood,  Dauid  Falconer,  Dauid  Tail- 
zeour,  Johne  Auchinlek. 

Augii/l  18. — Anent  Geillis  Robertfone,  the  bretheren  that  wer  appoynt- 
tit  to  conferre  with  her,  report,  that  they  could  gaine  no  confeflioun  from 

1  He  died  in  October  1677. 


JULY  1677.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  91 

her.  Dr.  Edward  is  appoynttit  frequentlie  to  conferr  with  her  during  the 
tyme  fcho  fould  be  keipt  in  prifone. 

September  11. — Anent  Geillis  Robertfone,  Dr.  Edward  reports,  that  thair 
is  no  appearance  of  her  confeffioun.  The  bretheren  having  confidered  her 
former  confeffiouns,  quhairof  they  wer  informed  by  Dr.  Edward  and 
utheris,  and  alfo  thefe  quho  wer  appoynted  to  conferre  with  her,  hauing 
heard  her  owne  daughter,  and  a  lifter  of  her  fonne  in  law  quho  was  lick, 
and  imputed  her  ficknes  vpon  pregnant  prefumptiones  to  a  malefice  of 
hers  ;  and  that  fcho  fpok  nothing  that  tended  to  the  clearing  of  her  felf : 
The  bretheren,  finding  that  thefe  were  fufficient  groundis  for  them,  vnto 
quhom  fuch  a  dewtie  belonged,  to  crave  a  commiffioun  for  her  tryall, 
apoynt  Dr.  Edward  to  defyre  that  the  magiftrats  of  the  toune  wold  feik  a 
commiffioun  for  her  tryall. 

September  15. — Anent  Geillis  Robertfone,  Dr.  Edward  reports,  that  in 
refpeft  thair  wer  no  a6tuall  magiftrats  in  Craill,  thair  was  no  courfe  takin 
for  obtaining  a  commiffioun  for  her  tryall.  The  bretheren  thoght  that 
this  was  a  duetie  incumbent  vpon  the  honneft  men  of  the  toune  to  feik  a 
commiffioun,  as  is  the  vie  and  cuftome  in  fuch  caices  quher  ther  is  no 
magiftrats ;  and  therfore  defyre  Dr.  Edward  to  putt  her  confeffiounes  in 
mundo,  and  delyver  them  to  honneft  men,  who  might  carry  them  over 
the  water,  for  obtaining  a  commiffioun  for  her  tryall. 

September  29. — Anent  Geillis  Robertfone,  Dr.  Edward  reports,  that  he 
had  obeyed  the  Prefbyteries  ordour  the  laft  day  vtjupra. 

December  27. — Anent  Geilles  Robertfone  fufpeft,  of  witchcraft,  Dr. 
Edward,  minifter  at  Craill,  reports  that  fcho  is  now  dead. 

November  16,  1676. — A£ts  Synod. — The  A6ts  of  the  Synod  being  this 
day  delyvered,  the  bretheren  wer  appointed  to  conlider  who  wer  the  moft 
notorious  ringleaders  in  withdrawing  from  the  publick  ordinances  in  ther 
oun  parilh,  and  in  procuring  diforderly  baptifms  or  mariage,  that  fome  feu 
of  them  might  be  proceeded  againft  to  be  a  terror  to  the  reft ;  and  to  give 
in  ther  names  againft  the  nixt  day,  in  obedience  to  the  A6t  of  the  laft 
Synod. 

Pittenweem,  July  19,  1677. — [Mr.  Andrew  Bruce  tranfported  to  Pitten- 
weem  from  Carnbee,  on  the  death  of  Mr.  Hamiltone.] 


92  THE  PRESBYTERY  SEPT.  1680. 

November  1 4. — [Mr.  Edward  Thomfone  admitted  minifter  at  Anftruther- 
Eafter.] 

Kinafbarns,  January  3,  1678. — [Mr.  Gilbert  Symfone,  minifter  at  the 
Caftle  of  Edinburgh,  admitted  to  Kingflbarns.] 

St.  Pittance,  January  16. — [Mr.  Alexander  Sharp,  fometime  minifter  in 
Ireland,  indufted  to  St.  Fillans.] 

Cameron,  January  30. — [Mr.  Andrew  Flooker  admitted  minifter  there,  in 
room  of  Mr.  James  Williamfone.] 

Ely,  May  8. — [Mr.  Alexander  Wilfon  admitted  minifter  there.] 

Carnbee,  September  1 6. — [Mr.  James  Gairns,  minifter  at  Balmirino,  tranf- 
ported  to  Carnbee.] 

St.  Pittance,  September  25. — [Mr.  James  Strahan,  Regent  in  the  Old 
College,  indufted  to  the  minifterie  of  St.  Fillans.] 

St.  Andrews,  May  14,  1679. — The  which  day,  the  Prefbitry  mett  heer 
but  without  any  exercife  or  additione,  in  regard  of  the  diforders  and  con- 
fufions  all  wer  in,  becaus  of  that  horrid  Murther  committed  upon  the  per- 
fone  of  my  Lord  Archbifhop  of  St.  Andrews. 

Newburn,  September  17. — [Mr.  William  Sym,  minifter  of 
in  Galloway,  recommended  by  my  Lord  [Bifchop  of]  Edinburgh,  vicar 
generall  to  the  Sea  of  St.  Andrews,  tranf  ported  and  admitted  to  Newburn.] 

St.  Andrews,  October  29. — No  Exercife. — The  which  day,  the  Prefbitry 
mett  in  the  Town  Kirk,  but  without  any  publick  exercife,  in  regard  that 
Dr.  Moor,  who  was  appointed  to  have  it,  did  yefterday  preach  by  appoint 
ment  from  my  Lord  St.  Andrews  at  the  tranflation  of  the  Archbifhop 
of  Glafgou  to  the  Archbifhoprick  of  St.  Andreus,  and  confecration  of  the 
Bifliop  of  Argil.  He  is  again  appointed  to  have  the  exercife,  and  Do&or 
Falconer  the  additione. 

September  1,  1680. — Duncan,  f colder. — Mr.  Andreu  Auchinleck  reports, 
that  in  his  parochin  of  Dinninou,  ther  is  on  Cathrin  Duncan  guilty  of 
fcolding  and  abufmg  hir  nighbours,  who  refufes  to  give  fatiffaftione  befor 
his  congregation  for  the  fame.  She  is  appointed  to  be  fummond  againft 
the  nixt  day. 

September  15. — Anent  Catharin  Duncan  utjupra,  Mr.  Andreu  Auchin 
leck  reports,  that  nou  fhe  hath  given  fatifladione,  by  acknoledging  hir 
crim  befor  the  congregatione  at  Dininnou. 


JAN.  1682.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  93 

Carnbee,  April  27,  1681. — The  which  day,  the  Prefbitry  mett  heer  in 
order  to  the  admiffion  of  Mr.  Alexander  Lundie,  late  minifter  at  Oruel. 

November  16. — This  day,  the  Archdeacon,  Moderator  of  the  Prefbitry, 
produced  to  the  brethren  a  commiffion  he  had  receaved  at  Edinburgh,  of 
the  date  November  8  inftant,  from  the  moft  reverend  Father  in  God  my 
Lord  Archbifhop  of  St.  Andreus,  his  Grace  impouring  him  to  adminifter 
the  Oath  and  Teft  appointed  by  the  current  Parlament  to  the  feverall 
brethren  of  this  Prefbitry ;  which  was  publickly  read  in  ther  audience. 
He  produced  alfo  the  exprefs  fens  wherin  the  clargie  of  this  kingdome  ar 
appointed  and  alloued,  by  his  Royall  Highnes  and  the  Lords  of  his  Ma- 
jefties  moft  honorable  Privie  Counfell,  to  tak  the  faid  Oath  and  Teft. 
This  a6t  for  explaining  of  the  Teft  to  be  takin  by  the  clargie,  being  pub 
lickly  read  in  the  hearing  of  the  brethren,  and  maturly  conlidered  by 
them,  they  did  all  unanimoufly  agree  and  confent  to  give  obedience  to 
the  law,  in  fwearing  and  fubfcribing  the  faid  Oath  and  Teft  in  the  fens 
above  exprefte,  and  that  on  the  23  day  of  this  inftant ;  on  which  day  they 
appointed  to  afTemble  themfels,  at  ther  ordinary  meeting  place  in  St. 
Andrews,  in  hunc  effeklum. 

*•*/ 

January  4,  1682. — The  Archdeacone  produced  a  letter  from  my  Lord 
Archbifhop  of  St.  Andrews,  allowing  him  to  receaue  unto  the  communion 
of  this  church  Mr.  James  Canneris,J  who  had  apoftatized  to  the  popifh  re 
ligion  fome  years  agoe,  and  was  now  earneftly  defyrous  to  make  profeffion 
of  his  repentance,  and  to  be  readmitted  to  the  fellofhip  of  his  mothers 
church  ;  this  order  from  my  Lord  Archbifhop  careing  exprefly  in  it,  that 
his  reception  fhould  be  performed  folemly,  and  with  the  advice  of  the 
brethren  in  this  Prefbitry.  Accordingly,  the  Archdeacone  having  pro 
pounded  the  matter  to  them,  they  unanimoufly  agreed  that  he  fhould  be 
receaved  publikly  in  the  church  of  St.  Andrews  before  the  congregation, 

1  In  1684  James  Canaries  published  a  volume,  at  Edinburgh,  entitled,  "A  Discourse  repre 
senting  the  sufficient  Manifestation  of  the  Will  of  God  to  his  Church  in  all  its  several  Periods 
and  Dispensations."  1  2mo.  pp.  296.  It  is  dedicated  to  the  Chancellor,  Earl  of  Perth.  The 
author  alludes  to  his  still  lying  "  at  the  Pool  of  Preferment ;"  and  says,  "  my  circumstances  are 
such  as  make  me  yet  depend  upon  the  World  for  my  fortune  in  it."  Next  year,  however,  he 
printed  "  A  Sermon,  preacht  at  Selkirk,  upon  the  29  of  May  1685,"  in  which  he  styles  him 
self  "  Minister  of  the  Gospel  there." 


94  THE  PRESBYTERY  JAN.  1682. 

on  the  25  of  this  inftant,  which  is  the  nixt  meeting  of  the  Prefbitry,  and 
that  intimation  be  made  therof  to  the  people  from  the  pulpit  the  Lords 
day  immediatly  preceeding ;  which  was  accordingly  done. 

St.  Andrews,  Januar  25. — This  day,  the  brethren  being  frequently  con- 
vined,  Mr.  James  Canneris  was  receaved  in  this  manor  following : — 

The  whole  brethren  of  the  Prefbitry  were  fet  at  a  table  before  the  pulpet, 
and  the  penitent  in  a  chear  behind  them ;  then  the  Archdeacone  went 
up  to  Readers  dafk,  and,  after  calling  upon  the  name  of  God,  he  difcourfd 
concerning  the  occafion  of  that  meiting,  and  gave  the  reafons  vherfor  it 
was  thought  fitt  that  this  bufenefs  fhould  be  tranfa&ed  publikly ;  and  alfo 
represented  to  the  people  briefly  the  manifold  advantages  which  the  Pro- 
teftant  Religion  hath  of  Popry,  the  Proteftant  faith  being  a  religion  more 
ancient,  more  pure,  more  peacable,  and  more  reafonable  then  that  of 
Rome. 

Then  the  Archdeacone  cald  up  the  penitent  from  his  feat  to  ftand  by 
him,  that  he  might  be  the  better  heard  and  feen  of  the  people  :  Where 
the  penitent  difcourfed  at  great  lenght  of  the  temptations  he  was  under 
to  make  defe&ion  to  Popry,  and  of  the  motives,  convi&ions,  and  induce 
ments  that  made  him,  after  fome  time,  naufeat  that  religion,  and  erneftly 
defire  that  he  might  have  occafion  to  renunce  it,  and  embrace  and  pro- 
fefle  again  the  orthodox  religion  of  Proteftants  ;  both  which  he  did  pub 
likly  and  at  large  at  this  time. 

After  which,  the  Archdeacone  required  him  to  goe  down  to  his  former 
place,  and  ther,  upon  his  knees,  to  creave  pardon  of  God  for  his  apoftafie, 
and  for  the  offence  and  fcandle  he  hath  given  therby  to  this  reformed 
church,  and  to  bege  earneftly  that  he  might  be  readmitted  unto  its  com 
munion  and  fellowfhip  ;  which  he  accordingly  did. 

Then  the  Archdeacone  calld  all  the  Do&ors  and  Prifbyters  prefent  by 
name,  to  give  their  opinion  and  judgment  concerning  what  they  had  heard 
from  him,  and  to  declare  their  mind,  whither  they  thought  he  might  be 
receaved  upon  this  profeflion  of  repentance  unto  the  bofome  of  this  Church; 
unto  which  all  of  thame  unanimoufly  agreed.  The  Archdeacone  alfo  calld 
to  the  whole  people  then  afTembled,  that  if  they  had  any  thing  to  object 
againft  the  penitents  reception,  they  might  prefently  declare  the  fame. 


Nov.  1686.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  95 

But  none  of  thame  ofred  to  make  any  oppofition ;  and  therefore  the  Arch- 
deacone  proceeded,  and,  with  the  confent  of  his  brethren,  admitted  him  to 
the  fellowfhip  of  this  Church,  and  in  teftimonie  therof  did  take  him  by  the 
hand,  as  alfo  the  reft  of  the  brethren  did. 

Then  the  Archdeacone  folemly  obtefted  and  charged  him  in  the  pre- 
fence  of  God,  angells,  and  men,  that  he  fhould  never  declam  [decline  ?] 
again  unto  the  Popifh  errours  and  fuperftitions,  which  he  had  now  folemly 
renounced ;  and  he  made  him  publikly  promife,  with  upleafted  hand,  that 
he  fhould  perfift  all  the  days  of  his  life  in  the  trew  reformed  Proteftant 
Religion  as  it  is  at  prefent  eftablifhed  by  law  in  its  do6trine,  difcipline,  and 
government  in  this  Church  and  Kingdome,  and  that  he  Ihould  adorne  the 
fame  with  a  holy  life  and  converfation.  Then  the  Archdeacone  clofed  the 
a&ion  with  prayer,  and  difmiffd  the  people  with  the  bliffing. 

Kemback,  Februar  22. — The  Preibitry  mett  here  for  the  admiffion  of 
Mr.  Alexander  Edward  to  be  minifter  at  this  place. 

March  22. — The  Archdeacone  produced  to  the  brethren  a  recommen 
dation  from  my  Lord  St.  Andrews  in  favours  of  a  Grecian  gentleman 
called  Franfefco  Pollani,  who  hath  two  brothers  and  a  fifter  in  miferable 
bondage  at  Tripoli,  that  they  might,  in  order  to  their  relief,  gather  a  vo 
luntary  contribution  in  their  feverall  congregationes ;  which  they  under 
took  to  doe. 

St.  Monance,  May  24. — [Mr.  Andrew  Burnet  admitted  minifter  there.] 
Newburne,  Augufi  \  6. — [Mr.  Andrew  Youngfone  indu6ted  minifter  here.] 
September  13. — The  colle&ion  for  the  peer  of  Bruntifland,  and  the 
bridge  of  Dumbartowne,  was  again  recommended  to  the  brethren. 

Carnbie,  May  23,  1683. — [Mr.  John  Falconer  admitted  minifter  there.] 
Kilconquhar,  Sept.  24,  1684. — [Mr.  Alexander  Hay  admitted  minifter.] 
Caraill,0&ober  22. — [Mr.  Alexander  Leflie,  minifter  at  Cyres,  tranflated 
to  Craill.] 

Newburn,  September  16,  1085. — [Mr.  James  Hay  admitted  minifter.] 
Anflruther  Eqfter,  Augu/l  5,  1686. — [Mr.  William  Moncrieff  admitted 
minifter.] 

St.  Andrews,  November  9. — [Mr.  John  Wood  admitted  minifter.] 


96  THE  PRESBYTERY  JUNE  1693. 

ATT  ST.  ANDREWS,  APRIL  18,  1693. 

The  Provincial!  Synod  of  Fife  met  at  Dumfermline,  takeing  unto  their 
confideration,  that  there  are  now  a  competent  number  of  minifters  in  each 
of  the  tuo  Prefbiteries  of  St.  Andrews  and  Cupar,  who  formerlie  were 
united  in  one  Prefbitrie,  and  that  both  the  Prefbitries  were  defireous  to 
be  diljoyned  again,  and  to  aft  feparatlie  by  themfelves,  did,  by  their  aft, 
bearing  the  date  the  fixt  of  April  Im  TJC  and  nintie  three  years,  difjoyn 
the  faid  Prefbitries.  As  alfo,  by  the  faid  aft  they  appointed  the  firft  diet 
of  the  meeting  of  the  bretheren  in  the  Prefbitrie  of  St.  Andreus  to  be  at 
St.  Andreus  upon  the  eighteen  day  of  this  prefent  moneth  of  April ;  as 
the  faid  aft  at  more  length  beares.  And  they,  being  mett  accordinglie, 
did  make  choiie  of  Mr.  Thomas  Forrefter  to  be  their  Moderator  for  this 
feafon,  and  of  Mr.  Hugh  Kemp  to  be  Clerk. 

After  prayer.  Sederunt.  Mr.  Thomas  Forrefter,  Moderator,  Mr. 
Alexander  Pitcairn,  Proveft  of  the  Old  Colledg,  Mr.  William  Tullidaff, 
Principall  of  St.  Leonards  Colledg,  Mr.  James  Drummond,  Mr.  William 
Wardrop,  Mr.  John  Arthur,  Mr.  Walter  Wilfon,  Mr.  William  Hardie, 
Mr.  Hugh  Kemp,  Cis.  Elders,  the  Laird  of  Grangmure,  William  Jack, 
bailie  in  St.  Andreus. 

May  2. — Mr.  Wood  depqfed. — This  day,  the  execution  of  the  laft  fum- 
monds  given  to  Mr.  William  Wood,  late  incumbent  at  Deninnow,  was 
prefented  to  the  Prefbitrie ;  and  they  haveing  cauf 'd  call  him  three  feve- 
rall  times,  at  the  moft  patent  church  door,  he  compeared  not,  nor  anie  in 
his  name ;  upon  which  the  Prefbitrie,  for  his  contumacie,  did  depofe  him 
Jimpliciter  from  the  exercife  of  his  miniftrie. 

June  7. — The  bretheren  of  the  Prelbitrie  of  Cupar,  for  the  moft  part, 
were  all  prefent  here,  to  confult  with  this  Prefbitrie  anent  the  takeing  of 
the  Oath  of  Alleadgance  and  fubfcryving  the  Affurance  to  their  Majef- 
ties  King  William  and  Queen  Mary,  impofed  by  authoritie  upon  all  the 
minifters  within  this  kingdom.  But  they  left  the  final  determination  of 
this  affair  to  the  more  generall  meeting  of  the  bretheren  within  the  bounds 
of  the  Synod,  which  is  fliortlie  to  be  kept  at  Kirkcaldie. 


APRIL  1696.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  97 

*. 

Odober  5. — [Mr.  Robert  Fairweather  ordained  minifter  at  Carnbee.] 
Auyuft  1,  1694. — Reference  to  the  Synod  anent  the  goeiny  of  Salt  panns. — 
Mr.  Patrick  Coupar  informing  the  Prefbitrie  of  the  great  abufe  committed 
on  the  Lords  day  by  the  goeing  of  Salt  panns  in  the  toune  of  Pittenweem, 
and  craveing  their  advice  herein  ;  and  they  confidering  that  this  abufe  is 
not  onlie  peculiar  to  that  place,  but  generall  through  many  parts  of  Fyfe, 
they  thought  fitt  to  referr  it  to  the  Synod  for  advice,  that  fo  a  joynt  courfe 
may  be  folloued  for  fuppreffing  thefe  abufes. 

Cameron,  December  13. — [Mr.  John  Olyphant  admitted  minifter  there.] 
Anftruther-  Wefler,  May  1,  1695. — [Mr.  Thomas  Black  induded  minifter 
there.] 

Leuchars,  Julie  3. — [Mr.  George  Gordon  admitted  minifter  there.] 
O&ober  30. — Affair  anent  Beatrix  Laing  delayed. — The  Prefbytrie  have- 
ing  heard  a  propofal  from  Mr.  Patrick  Coupar  for  advice  anent  a  fcandal, 
tabled  before  their  Seffion,  againft  one  Beatrix  Laing,  concerning  a  charm 
ufed  by  her,  and  finding  the  matter  weightie,  and  they  fo  ftraitened  with 
time,  the  confideration  of  it  is  referred  to  the  nixt  dyet. 

Februar  26,  1696. — [Mr.  George  Hamilton,  minifter  at  Newburn,  tran- 
flated  to  the  parifh  of  St.  Leonards,1  and  made  Principal  of  St.  Leonards 
College.] 

Petition  James  Tod. — The  Preibitrie  takeing  into  their  confideration  a 
petition  given  in  by  James  Tod,  defireing  that  they  would  take  notice  of 
a  charm  ufed  againft  his  fon,  by  Beatrix  Laing  in  the  towne  of  Pitten 
weem,  They  appoint  Mr.  William  Hardie,  Mr.  Walter  Wilfon,  Mr. 
James  Drummond,  and  Mr.  Robert  Fairweather,  to  meet  at  Pittenweem 
on  Weddenfday  next  with  the  Seflion  there,  and  to  continue  their  diets, 
as  they  fhall  find  caufe,  for  making  fearch  and  inquirie  in  that  affair ;  and 
to  doe  everie  thing  that  fhall  be  found  neceffarie  for  getting  clearnefs 
therin,  and  to  report  the  next  diet. 

April  1. — Report  anent  David  Tod,  fyc. — As  to  the  affair  relating  to 

1  Mr.  Hamilton,  as  minister  of  Newburn,  was  outed  on  the  restoration  of  Episcopacy  in 
1661,  and  appears  to  have  resided  in  London  till  he  was  called  by  the  Presbytery  in  January 
1694  to  resume  his  charge.  He  resigned  the  principality  and  ministery  of  St.  Leonards  in 
November  1696  ;  and  was  transported  to  Edinburgh  in  1697. 


98  THE  PRESBYTERY  MARCH  1698. 

charms  in  the  toune  of  Pittenweem,  Mr.  Patrick  Coupar,  minifter  there, 
reports,  that  the  bretheren,  according  to  the  Prefbitries  order,  did  meet 
there,  and  made  inquirie  into  it,  and  that  David  Tod,  the  partie  purfueing, 
did  faile  in  his  probation  laid  in  againft  Beatrix  Laing,  whom  he  purfue 
ing  for  ufeing  a  charm  againft  his  fon.  This  report  being  confidered  by 
the  Prefbitrie,  they  found  that  they  could  proceed  no  further  in  it  at  the 
time. 

Julie  22. — [Mr.  Robert  Cleiland  admitted  minifter  at  Newburn.] 

May  4,  1697. — [Mr.  Patrick  Tullideph  ordained  minifter  at  Ferrie- 
portoun-craig.] 

Julie  7- — Likewife,  the  faid  Mr.  Thomas  Forrefter,  defired  the  advice 
of  the  Prelbitrie,  what  he  fhould  doe  in  cenfuring  fome  perfons  who  were 
convift  before  the  magiftrat  of  theft,  and  refetting  of  ftoln  goods,  and 
were  accordinglie  punifhed  by  them.  In  anfuer  to  which,  they  advife 
that  they  be  called  before  the  congregation,  and  there  openlie  rebuked 
for  their  fin. 

September  J . — [Mr.  John  Anderfon,  minifter  at  Leflie,  tranfported  to 
St.  Leonards,  and  appointed  Principal  of  St.  Leonards  College.] 

September  2. — [Mr.  James  Knox  admitted  minifter  at  Deninnow.] 

September  15. — [Mr.  Alexander  Shields  ordained  minifter  at  St.  An 
drews.] 

March  16,  1698. — Anent  the  Centefima. — The  Prelbitrie  confidering,  that 
by  ane  Ad  of  the  laft  Synod  held  at  Kirkcaldie,  it  is  recommended  to 
the  refpe&ive  Prefbitries  to  choofe  a  colle&or  for  gathering  the  Centefima 
of  minifters  ftipends  to  be  beftowed  upon  the  widows  of  deceafed  minifters 
or  their  children  ;  and  being  ignorant  of  what  other  Prefbitries  have 
done  in  this  affair,  therefore  they  judged  it  fitt  to  delay  this  till  after  the 
next  Synod,  that  it  may  be  known  what  fteps  other  Prefbitries  have  taken 
in  this  affair,  that  fo  they  may  take  fuch  meafures  as  they  ftiall  find  moft 
convenient. 

Anent  Archibald  Reddie. — The  Prefbitrie  takeingthe  affair  of  Archibald 
Reddie,  (a  perfon  procefPd,  for  ufeing  charmes  in  adminiftering  cures  to 
fick  perfones  and  cattal,  before  the  Synod),  into  their  confederation,  and 
finding,  that  it  is  recommended  by  the  laft  Synod  to  minifters  to  inquire 


AUG.  1698.  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  99 

what  of  that  nature  hath  been  done  by  him  in  their  particular  charges, 
according  to  what  information  they  can  hear  of  this  matter;  and  the 
bretheren  being  afked  if  they  had  any  information  to  give  in  againft  him ; 
Mr.  Patrick  Coupar  gave  in  ane  information  in  write,  as  it  was  declared 
before  the  Seffion  of  Pittenweem ;  as  alfo,  Mr.  Thomas  Black  gave  in 
another  as  it  was  declaired  before  the  Seffion  of  Anftruther  Wefter. 
Both  which  papers  are  to  be  given  in  by  the  clerk  to  the  Synod  when  it 
meets.  And  the  Prefbitrie  appoints  the  reft  of  the  bretheren  who  can 
have  any  information  from  their  Seffions  concerning  the  faid  Archibald 
Reddie  his  ufeing  of  charms  in  his  giveing  of  cures,  to  have  them  in  readi- 
nefs  againft  the  Synods  meeting,  that  all  may  be  prefented  together. 

March  16. — Anent  a  Woman  repute  a  Soothfayer. — The  Prefbitrie  take- 
ing  into  their  confideration,  that  it  was  remitted  to  them  by  the  laft 
Synod  to  raife  a  procefs  againft  a  woman  in  the  pariih  of  St.  Andreus, 
who  is  reputed  to  be  a  foothfayer,  and  to  proceed  againft  her  as  they 
fhould  fie  caufe.  And  now,  being  informed  that  fhe  is  gone  out  of  the 
bounds,  they  know  not  whether,  they  find  that  they  can  doe  nothing  in 
this  affair. 

May  4. — Anent  ihe  Woman  reput  a  Soothfayer. — The  Prefbitrie  hav 
ing  informed  the  Synod,  that  the  woman  delated  for  a  foothfayer  in  St. 
Andreus  parifh  is  now  gone  out  of  the  bounds,  and  that  it  is  not  known 
whether :  Upon  which  it  was  recommended  to  all  the  bretheren  within 
the  bounds  of  the  Synod,  that  if  Ihe  could  be  found  out  in  anie  of  their 
refpe6tive  congregations,  to  caufe  apprehend  her,  and  to  fend  her  back  to 
St.  Andreus,  that  fo  fhe  might  be  made  to  anfuer  before  this  Prefbitry  for 
what  is  charged  againft  her. 

Auguft  10. — Supplies. — Mr.  Sheilds  reports,  that  he  had  occafion  to 
fpeake  with  Mr.  William  Dunlop,  Principal  of  the  Colledge  of  Glafgow, 
and  with  Mr.  James  Broune,  minifter  there,  who  told  him,  that  they  have 
no  young  men  at  prefent  to  fpare,  either  to  this  or  anie  other  Prefbitrie. 

Report  anent  the  Soothfayer. — As  to  that  woman  who  lived  once  in  the 
parifh  of  St.  Andreus,  and  reputed  to  be  a  foothfayer,  Mr.  John  Olyphant 
reports,  that  latelie  he  had  a  letter  from  Mr.  James  Broun,  minifter  in 
Glafgow,  fhewing  that  fhe  was  in  their  bounds,  and  when  challenged,  pro- 


100  THE  PRESBYTERY  OF  ST.  ANDREWS.  1698. 

duced  a  teftimonial,  which  fhe  faid  was  granted  to  her  by  the  Seflion  of 
Cameron,  and  that  he  defired  to  know  if  the  Seflion  of  Cameron  had 
granted  that  teftificat.  The  faid  Mr.  Olyphant  reports  alfo,  that  he  wrote 
back  a  letter  to  Mr.  Broun,  fhewing  in  what  circumftances  fhe  was  in 
with  this  Prefbitrie,  and  that  fhe  had  feignied  that  teftimonial.  The 
Prefbitrie  having  heard  and  confidered  the  laid  report,  they  found  they 
could  proceed  no  further  in  this  affair  at  the  time. 

September  21. — Anent  Archibald  Reddie. — This  day,  was  prefented  and 
read  a  minut  of  the  laft  Synod  concerning  Archibald  Reddie,  which  is  as 
follows : 

ATT  ST.  ANDRBUS,  6  APRIL  1698,  hora  &™  post  meridiem. 

Anent  Archibald  Reddie,  under  process  before  the  Synod  for  charming,  &c.,  this  Provin 
cial!  Synod  appoints  the  ministers  within  their  respective  bounds,  to  give  publick  intimations 
from  their  pulpits,  for  all  the  people  to  forbear  consulting  him,  under  the  paine  of  incurring 
severe  censure,  and  that  he  shall  find  cautione  to  the  Presbitrie  of  Kirkcaldie  at  their  next 
meeting,  to  ansuer  their  disciplin.  As  also,  the  Synod  appoints  that  the  persones  who  have 
already  imployed  him  within  the  bounds  of  the  Synod,  shall  he  censured,  as  the  respective 
Sessions  shall  see  fitt.  This  voted  and  approven,  he  was  summoned  apud  acta  to  compear 
before  the  Presbitrie  of  Kirkcaldie  at  their  next  meeting ;  and  in  face  of  the  Synod,  the  said 
Archibald  Reddie  promised  to  forbear  anie  future  practiseing  in  his  former  sinfull  waves  for 
the  time  to  come. 

Sic  subscribitur,  WILL.  MACKY,  Cl.  Syn. 

Which  being  confidered  by  the  Preflbitrie,  they  did,  and  hereby  doe 
recommend  it  to  the  bretheren,  to  give  obedience  to  the  faid  Ad,  in  fo 
farr  as  it  concernes  them. 

Anent  the  goeiny  of  Jolt  pans  on  the  Lords  day. — The  Prefbitrie  being  in 
formed,  that  it  will  be  verie  needfull,  in  order  to  the  fupprefling  the  pro 
fanation  of  the  Lords  day,  by  the  goeing  of  fait  panns,  that  the  Synod 
would  addrefs  the  Juftices  of  peace  to  interpofe  their  authoritie  for  the 
laid  effe&.  Therefore,  they  referr  this  affair  to  the  Synod,  for  their  con 
currence  herein. 

O&ober  5.— [Mr.  John  Wood,  minifter  at  Kilrinnie,  dimitted  his  mi- 
niftery.] 


THE   PRESBYTERY    OF    CUPAR, 

1646-1660. 


The.  Church- 
ToUbuxttv 


4-  Ilridg 


<e  Itynd- 
For-tr 


Thf-JffM  Fort 


8    The  KirTtyate  farf 
t)  Lady  Port  Ic  WyruL 

/O  JlMf.r  gala  Strfft 

11   Croft  Street 


JSJtast  Fart 


Tfyruie, 


16  Rolter 


TJlJ.Provo* 
18  Lady  Jfrielgc 
rff  JfitZe  Hill 
%o  "WeH  Ttrwer 


THE   PRESBYTERY   OF   CUPAR. 


THE  MEITINGS  AND  PROCEIDINGS  OF  THE  PRESBYTERIE  OF  CUPER 
SINCE  THE  LAST  PROVINCIAL!,  AsSEMBLYE  HOLDEN  AT  CUPER  OCTOBER 
6,  1646. 

October  22,  1646. — The  brother  wer  ordained  to  keip  the  fait,  indi6ted 
by  the  Provinciall  Afiemblye  to  be  keipt  throughout  the  whole  province, 
the  nixt  Thurfday,  the  29  of  O6tober  inftant,  the  cawfes  being  the  fame 
that  wer  of  the  laitte  former  faft,  the  pleague  of  peftilence,  the  rageing 
enemies  in  Argyle  preaffing  to  eftablifhe  papiftrie  there. 

Mr.  David  Dalgleifhe  declared,  that  Mr.  Walter  Greig  and  he  gave  in 
the  names  of  thofe  fulpe£t  of  complyeancie  with  the  enemies,  to  the  Sy 
nodal  Aflemblye,  and,  being  authorized  by  them,  gave  them  in  to  the 
Committie  of  the  Shyre. 

Mr.  George  Thomibne,  minifter  at  Kilmanie,  reprefenting  to  the  Pref- 
byterie  that  ther  was  no  mantainance  in  ther  paroche  for  a  fchoole,  de- 
fyred  the  brothers  advife  and  afliftance  for  helpeing  of  it :  The  breither 
tooke  it  to  connderatione  whil  the  nixt  day. 

November  5. — Concerning  the  perfons  in  the  paroche  of  Cupar  fufpe6t 
of  complyencie  with  the  enemie,  viz.  Sir  James  Sibbald  of  Rankilour, 
James  Clephan,  and  James  Baxter,  who  wer  fummond  to  compeir  this 
day ;  and  compeiring,  the  Moderator  afked  Mr,  David  Dalgleifhe,  What 


104  THE  PRESBYTERY  DEC.  1646. 

was  the  ground  quherupon  the  faid  Mr.  David  defyrd  them  to  be  fum- 
mond  ?  who  anfering,  declared,  that  he  was  informed  be  the  Seffione  of 
Cupar,  that  the  Gordons  wer  in  Sir  James  Sibbald  of  Rankilour  his  howfe ; 
that  he  was  lykewayes  informed  by  the  faid  Seffion,  that  James  Clephan 
convoyed  thame  to  Forfar,  and,  as  he  was  informed,  it  was  to  feike  a  dif- 
charge  of  the  monye  given  be  the  Towne  of  Cuper  to  the  faids  Rebels ; 
that  ho  was  lykwayes  informed,  that  James  Baxter  was  in  companie  with 
James  Grhame,  being  in  the  Laird  of  Park  his  fervice  in  Buchanan. 

Sir  James  Sibbald  of  Rankilour  being  examined,  confeffed,  they  came 
to  his  howfe,  and  wer  in  his  howfe  againft  his  will ;  and  faid,  he  was  not 
able  to  hold  them  owt,  nor  to  efchew  them. 

James  Clephan,  being  afked,  declared,  he  was  fent  by  David  Robert- 
fone,  dean  of  guild  in  Cuper,  David  Robertfone  bailzie,  and  David  Ro- 
bertfone,  fone  to  David  Robertfone  dean  of  guild,  to  follow  them  to 
get  a  difcharge  for  the  monyes  given  to  the  Gordones  be  the  Towne  of 
Cuper.  James  Clephan  was  fummond  apud  a£ta  to  compeir  the  nixt 
Thurfeday. 

Mr.  Alexander  Balfoure,  haveing  formarlie  acquainted  the  Prefbyterie 
with  that  prote&ioune  whiche  the  Laidie  of  Aytoune  had  received,  made 
report,  thaU  the  Laidie  had  moft  humblie,  in  the  face  of  the  congregatione, 
teftified  hir  repentance,  conformetothe  ordinance  of  the  General  1 A  ffemblye. 
Nwembw  26. — Jonet  and  Marie  Mitchells,  in  the  paroche  of  Kilmanie, 
fclandered  of  witchecraft  by  occafione  of  fomething  fpoken  be  Griffell 
Thomfone,  who  was  brunt  for  witchecraft,  did  fupplicat  the  Prefbyterie  to 
have  the  faid  fclander  tryed.  Quherupon  the  Prefbyterie  defyred  that 
Grifiall  Thomfone  hir  delatione  concerning  the  faid  Jonet  and  Marie 
Mitchells  fhould  be  fought  from  the  clerk  of  the  proces,  and  prefented  the 
nixt  day. 

December  17- — Rankilor  Sibbald  elder,  compeiring,  and  being  afked 
anent  the  new  refetting  of  Newtongordone,  declared,  that  the  reafon  was 
becaus  he  had  Middletonis  paffe :  The  faid  Rankilor  elder  was  fummond 
apud  a&a  againft  the  nixt  day. 

December  31. — The  quhilk  day,  the  bretheren  haveing  confidered  the 
whole  proces  concerning  Rankilor  Sibbald  elder,  althoughe  they  doe  not 


DEC.  1646.  OF  CUPAR.  105 

find  him  to  come  under  anye  of  the  clafles  of  complyencie  with  the  rebels 
expreft  in  the  Aft  of  the  Generall  Aflemblye ;  yet  becaus,  throughe  the 
rebels  being  a  night  in  his  howfe  at  that  time  when  they  went  throughe 
the  fhyre  of  Fyffe,  they  find  that  ther  is  a  pregnant  fclander  concerning 
him  taking  impreffione  in  the  heartes  of  manye,  as  iff  he  had  reallie  com- 
plyed  with  them  in  ther  wicked  cowrfes ;  therfor,  they  think  it  meit,  and 
ordaine,  for  removeing  of  the  faid  fclander,  that  the  faid  Rankilor  Sibbald 
elder,  the  nixt  Sabbathe  day,  publi&lie  in  the  Congregatione,  after  fer- 
mone  befor  the  bliffing,  ftand  up  in  his  owin  feat,  and  declare  that  he 
hathe  bein  alwayes  free  of  complying  with  them  in  ther  cowrfes  of  rebel- 
lione  ;  and  that  ther  being  in  his  howfe,  was  without  anye  invitatione  or 
allowance  upon  his  part,  and  altogether  againft  his  will  and  defyr,  he  not 
being  able  in  that  exigent  either  to  efchew  them  or  hinder  them :  And 
appoints  Mr.  David  Dalgleifhe  to  report  his  carriage  in  that  matter  to  the 
Prefbyterie  the  nixt  Thurfday. 

Ther  was  received  this  day,  ane  letter  fent  from  the  Commiflione  of  the 
Generall  Aflemblye,  fhewing  that  they  had  emitted  ane  Warning,  quherof 
nynteen  copies  wer  received  and  given  to  the  feverall  bretheren  of  our 
Prefbyterie  to  reade  and  explaine,  according  to  the  Aft  printed  therwithe, 
and  that  in  ther  feveral  kirks  on  Sonday  nixt ;  pryce  being  1 2  S. ;  defyring 
lykewayes,  to  fend  to  James  Murray  the  pryces  of  the  afts  of  the  laft 
Aflemblye,  Cawfes  of  the  Faft,  and  his  tuentie  fhillings  for  this  prefent 
yeir ;  as  alfo,  the  pryces  of  the  Declaratione  and  Proclamatione  againft 
Seafort,  and  Cawfes  of  the  Faft,  pryce  4  §. :  As  alfo,  declaring  that  James 
Ogylvie,  fone  to  fometymes  Earle  of  Airlie,  was  relaxed  in  the  Eaft  Kirk 
of  Edinburghe  from  the  fentence  of  excommunicatione ;  defyring  the  fame 
to  be  intimat,  in  the  feveral  paroche  kirks  within  this  Prefbyterie  owt  of 
pulpite  be  the  minifter,  the  nixt  Sabbathe. 

Received  alfo  ane  other  letter  from  the  faid  Commiflione,  recommend 
ing  to  the  charitie  of  the  bretheren  Mr.  James  Kirk,  minifter  of  Dun 
blane,  who  had  his  howfes,  comes,  bookes,  and  whole  goods  brunt  and  de- 
ftroyed,  himfelfe,  his  wyffe,  and  feven  young  children  fpoiled  of  all  means 
of  lyveliehood  ;  quhilk  they  tooke  to  confideratione  whil  the  nixt  day. 

Anent  the  women,  Jonet  and  Marie  Mitchels  in  Kilmenie,  fclandered  of 

0 


106  THE  PRESBYTERY  JAN.  1647- 

witchecraft,  by  reafon  of  fomething  that  Griflall  Thomfone  had  fpoken  anent 
them,  Mr.  George  Thomfone  reports,  that  he  had  fpoken  of  that  matter  in 
the  Commiffione  of  the  Kirk,  and  that  ther  opinion  was,  that  it  wasverie  hard 
to  keip  young  weomen  under  fclander,  and  to  marre  ther  fortune  in  the 
world,  and  debar  them  from  the  benefite  of  the  Kirk,  quher  ther  is  nothing 
but  the  delatione  of  one  witche,  without  anye  fclander  befor,  or  anye 
other  pregnant  prefumptione  before  or  fince.  Quherfor  the  Prefbyterie 
did  appoint  the  faid  Mr.  George  to  call  befor  him  publi&lie  in  the  congre- 
gatione  the  faid  Jonet  and  Marie  Mitchels,  and  to  intimat  to  the  congre- 
gatione  how  that,  after  all  tryelle  ufed,  nothing  was  found  againft  them  faffe 
onlye  that  quhilk  that  wretche  ipak,  and  how  cruell  a  thing  it  was,  upon 
fo  weake  a  grounde,  to  keip  them  under  fo  foul  a  fclander ;  and  that  he 
(hould  charge  them  publi&lie,  that  iff  they  knew  anye  other  thing  againft 
the  faidis  perfons  whiche  might  be  anye  prefumptione  of  ther  being  guiltie 
of  that  wickednes,  they  wold  declare  it  befor  the  nixt  Lords  day ;  and 
that  iff  none  fliould  laye  anye  other  thing  to  ther  charge  befor  that  day, 
that  then  they  ftiould  the  nixt  Lords  day  be  declared  free  of  that  fclander, 
and  not  anye  more  be  debard  from  the  benefite  of  the  Kirk. 

January  7,  1647.— Mr.  David  Dalgleiftie  declared  that  the  Seffion  of 
Cupar  was  fullie  fatiified  with  Sir  James  Sibbald  of  Rankilor  his  decla- 
ratione  the  laft  Sabbathe  ;  quherto  the  brether  acquiefced. 

David  Barclay  ftil  contumacious  and  difobedient  to  the  Seffion  of 
Creiche,  the  brether  fent  for  ane  bailzie,  who  compeiring  was  delyred  to 
put  him  in  firmance,  and  hold  him  in  firmance,  untill,  upon  cautione,  he 
ftiould  promife  to  fatiffie  the  Kirk  Seffion  of  Creiche. 

Januarij  14. — The  brether  received  ane  letter  from  the  Commiffione 
of  the  Kirk,  together  with  twentie  copies  of  ane  A&  and  Letter  for  a 
fupplie  to  be  collefted  in  the  feveral  paroches  for  the  diftrefled  people 
of  Argyle. 

Januarij  21. — David  Barclay,  in  the  paroche  of  Creiche,  compeir 
ing,  was  enjoyned  to  make  his  repentance  befor  the  pulpite  in  the  kirk  of 
Creiche  on  Sabbathe,  for  the  breiche  of  the  Sabbathe  in  threffing  corne, 
and  ane  other  for  his  obftinacie  and  rebellioun  ;  as  alfo  ordained  to  pay  a 
dolor  of  penaltie. 


FEB.  1647.  OF  CUPAR.  107 

February  4. — Sir  David  Sibbald  compeiring,  and  being  afked  anent  his 
complyencie  with  the  enemie,  declared,  that  they  wer  in  his  hows  againft 
his  will ;  and  being  afked  iff  he  prayed  for  them,  denyed  that  he  did  pray 
for  them.  The  brether  being  informed  that  the  Laird  of  Forther,  Carf- 
loggie  elder,  Bagrigge,  and  James  Clephan,  wer  in  his  howfe  at  that  tyme, 
appointed  them  to  be  fummond  againft  the  nixt  Thurfday,  to  compeir  and 
declare  to  the  Prefbyterie  how  the  faid  Sir  David  Sibbald  behaved  him- 
felfe  in  the  companie  of  the  faidis  Rebels. 

February  18. — This  day  compeired  Sir  David  Sibbald,  as  alfo  the  Laird 
of  Forther  and  Bagriggie,  as  witnefles,  to  declare  what  they  knew  in  the 
matter  anent  the  faid  Sir  David  his  complyencie  with  the  enemie ;  and 
the  faid  Sir  David  being  afked,  whither  he  did  except  anye  thing  againft 
the  faidis  gentlemen  as  witnefles,  anfered,  he  did  except  nothing  againft 
them ;  quherupon  the  faidis  two  witnefles  being  requyred,  upon  ther 
oathe,  to  declare  what  they  knew  in  the  faid  matter,  declared  as  folio wes : 

The  Laird  of  Forther  being  queftioned,  declared,  he  did  not  hear  the 
faid  Sir  David  pray  for  the  enemie ;  and  being  afked  iff  ther  wer  anye 
healthes  drunken,  declared,  that  he  faw  none  druken  but  the  Kings 
healthe ;  with  all  declaring,  that  the  faid  Sir  David  did  entertainie  the 
faids  rebels  verie  kyndlie,  and  that  they  were  welcome  to  him,  and  that 
in  a  jeafting  way  he  faid,  "  This  is  the  day  quheron  ye  ftiould  have  bein  at 
the  Comittie." 

Bagriggie  declared,  he  hard  him  not  pray  for  the  enemies ;  that  ther 
was  no  healthe  druken  but  the  Kings  healthe ;  and  that  Sir  David  was 
verie  violent  againft  the  Laird  of  Forther,  declaring  to  the  rebels,  that 
the  Laird  of  Forther  was  the  greateft  enemie  in  the  Committie  that  he 
hade,  defyring  the  faids  rebels  to  take  a  revenge  of  him  for  it. 

The  A6t  anent  pennie  brythels  was  delayed  till  the  Provinciall  Aflemblye 
while  the  matter  fhould  be  more  ryplie  advifed  there. 

This  day  David  Barclay,  portioner  of  Lithrie,  compeired,  fhewing  that 
he  had  brought  owt  of  Lawthean  Beflie  Couper  and  hir  daughter,  bothe 
fufpe&  of  witchecraft,  craveing  the  advife  of  the  brether  what  he  fhould 
doe  with  them.  The  brether  did  advife  the  faid  David  to  keip  them  untill 
Soneday  nixt,  and  prefent  them  to  the  Seflion  of  Creiche. 


108  THE  PRESBYTERY  MARCH  1647. 

February  25,  1647. — Mr.  Johne  Ramfay  and  Mr.  Johne  Litlejohne, 
were  appointed  to  fpcak  to  my  Lord  Anandell  at  his  firft  comeing  home 
owt  of  Edinburghe,  and  afke  his  Lordfhip  whither  he  had  fatiified  the 
Kirk  for  his  complyencie  with  the  enemie  or  not,  and  to  report  to  the 
Prefbyterie. 

Mr.  Walter  Greig  declared,  that  he  fpake  to  Kingafk  anent  the  remov- 
eing  of  the  monuments  of  fuperftitione  in  the  kirk  of  Darfie,  who  faid  to 
him  that  he  was  attending  Sir  George  Morifon  his  homecoming  from 
Edinburghe. 

Mr.  Johne  Makgil  elder,  Mr.  Walter  Greig,  and  Mr.  Andrew  Bennett, 
ar  appointed  to  fpeake  to  Beffie  Couper,  and  trye  iff  they  could  have  anye 
confeffione  of  her  concerning  witchecraft. 

Marche  4. — The  brether  haveing  diverfe  tymes  conveined  Sir  David 
Sibbald  befor  them,  and  haveing  made  diligent  fearche  of  the  degree  of 
his  delinquencie  of  the  complying  with  the  commone  Enemies,  have 
found,  partlie  by  witnefles  and  more  fullie  by  his  owin  confeffione,  that 
he  did  receive  fome  of  them  to  his  howfe  and  entertainied  them  too  kyndlie ; 
quhilk  the  faid  Sir  David  this  day  acknowledged  befor  us,  wiffing  he  had 
rather  quat  his  countrye  nor  bein  fo  familiar  withe  them,  and  humblye 
lubmitting  himfelfe  to  our  cenfure.  All  quhilk  being  taken  to  our  ferious 
confideratione,  we  decerned,  lykas  be  thefe  presents  we  doe  decerne, 
according  to  the  A6t  of  the  laite  Generall  Aflemblye,  he  being  in  the 
fecond  clafie  of  thefe  delinquents,  that  he  fhal  make  confeffione  of  the 
faid  overfight,  and  (hew  his  ferious  repentance  therfor  publidlie  befor  the 
pulpite  of  the  kirk  of  Moniemell,  the  nixt  Sabbathe  immediatlye  follow 
ing  ;  upon  the  quhilk  repentance  he  flialbe  received  be  the  minifter. 

Mr.  Johne  Makgill  elder,  and  Mr.  Walter  Greig,  that  were  appointed 
to  fpeake  to  Beffie  Couper,  fufpe&  of  witchecraft,  declared,  they  fpake  to 
hir,  but  (lie  confeffed  nothing  to  them.  The  brether  appointed  Mr. 
Alexander  Balfour,  Mr.  Johne  Makgill  younger,  and  Rankilor  Makgill 
younger,  to  fpeak  to  the  Magiftrats  of  Cupar  for  ane  ward  howfe  quherin 
flie  might  be  keipt  till  farder  tryelle. 

The  ingathering  of  the  colle&ione  for  the  fupplie  of  the  people  of  Argyle 
is  delayed,  by  reafone  the  people  ar  burdained  with  quartering  of  fogers 
now  goeing  to  the  Noarthe,  and  alfo  of  the  Monthlie  mantinance. 


MARCH  1647.  OF  CUPAR.  109 

Marche  11. — Concerning  Sir  David  Sibbald  his  fatiffa&ione  accord 
ing  to  the  ordinance  the  day  preceiding,  it  is  found,  that  he  had  no  wife 
fatiffied  the  ordinance  of  the  Prefbyterie,  becaus  neither  his  confeffione 
was  full  as  it  had  bein  in  the  Prefbyterie  the  day  befor,  neither  had  he 
humbled  himfelfe  upon  his  knees ;  his  expreffione  was  fuche  as  the  com- 
mone  people  could  not  underftand  ;  he  had  his  piftols  about  his  fyde,  and 
went  foorthe  befor  the  bliffing  immediatlie  after  the  minifter  had  ceaffed 
to  fpeak  to  him ;  and  becaus,  compeiring,  he  is  found  not  fenfible  of  his 
mifcarriages,  he  is  fummoned  apud  a£ta  to  compeir  the  nixt  day. 

The  matter  concerning  Beffie  Cupar,  fclandered  for  witchecraft  in  the 
paroche  of  Creiche,  is  delayed  untill  Mr.  Andrew  Bennett  his  returne  from 
Edinburghe. 

Quheras,  it  is  reported  by  Mr.  Lawrence  Olyphant,  minifter  at  New- 
burghe,  that  molt  pairt  of  the  elders  and  inhabitants  of  the  paroche  of 
Neuburghe,  had  converfed  withe  Andrew  Anderfone,  who  was  excommu 
nicate  three  yeir  lince  in  the  faid  paroche  ;  the  Prefbyterie  being  deeplie 
affeded  withe  the  faid  mifcarriage,  and  considering  how  muche  of  that 
kynd  abounds  in  the  land,  whilas  fo  manye  ar  excommunicate,  doe  refer 
the  matter  to  the  confideratione  of  the  Provinciall  Aflemblye,  that  a  folide 
cowrfe  may  be  taken,  bothe  for  punifhing  this  fo  haynous  ane  offence, 
and  for  preventing  the  lyke  in  tyme  comeing ;  and  difcharges  Mr.  Law 
rence  to  give  the  Communion  whil  the  Provinciall  be  paft. 

The  Prefbyterie  received  a  letter  from  the  Commiffione  of  the  Kirk, 
appointing  a  faft  to  be  keipt  the  firft  Sabbathe  of  Appryle,  for  the  fuccefTe 
of  the  expeditione  to  the  Noarthe,  and  for  the  other  caufes  of  humiliatione 
that  ar  up  and  downe  the  land ;  and  for  defyring  the  Members  of  the 
Commiffione  of  the  Kirk  to  repair  to  Abirdaine  the  fecond  Wedenfday  of 
Maij  ;  whiche  was  red  and  recommendet  to  the  brether. 

March  18. — The  quhilk  day,  the  brether,  taking  to  ther  confideratione 
the  report  made  be  Mr.  David  Orme  of  the  deficiencie  of  Sir  David  Sib- 
bald's  declaratione  of  repentance  in  findrie  points  at  the  Kirk  of  Monie- 
mel,  doe  heirby  ordaine  him  to  mak  declaratione  alfo  of  his  repentance  in 
the  Kirk  of  Cult  this  nixt  Sabbathe,  in  a  humble  manner  upon  his  knees 
befor  the  pulpite,  for  all  his  former  mifcarriages. 


110  THE  PRESBYTERY  APRIL  1647- 

The  quhilk  day,  David  Veitche  compelling,  and  confefiing  his  being 
withe  the  enemie  at  Kilfythe  and  Philiphaughe,  the  brether,  conforme 
to  the  A&  of  the  Generall  Aflemblye,  ordained  him  in  a  humble  manner 
upon  his  knees  to  confefle  his  fault,  and  declare  his  repentance  in  a  hum 
ble  manner  upon  his  knees  befor  the  Prelbyterie ;  quhilk  he  performed  : 
And  alfo  ordained  him  to  compeir  befor  the  pulpite  of  the  kirk  of  Darlie 
this  nixt  Sabbathe  to  doe  the  lyk,  according  to  the  A&  of  the  Generall 
Aflemblye. 

Mr.  Andrew  Bennett  and  Mr.  Walter  Greig  wer  appointed  to  fpeak 
Mr.  Thomas  Melvin  at  the  Synod,  for  planting  of  the  fchoole  of  Moniemell. 

April  1. — Beflie  Cupar  in  the  paroche  of  Lithrie,  fufped  of  witchecraft, 
is  referd  to  be  advifed  withe  the  Provinciall  Aflemblye  ;  as  alfo  the  caice 
of  lindrie  others  lying  under  the  fclander  of  witchecraft,  and  not  yet 
cleared. 

It  is  referred  to  the  Aflemblye  to  advife  concerning  the  eccleliaftick 
cenfure  to  be  inflided  in  this  caice,  wher  tuo  young  men  have,  for  the 
fpace  of  three  quarters  of  a  yeir,  layin  in  harlotrie  withe  one  woman, 
bothe  of  them  having  hir  at  once  Jucceffive  upon  all  occasions  of  purpofe, 
as  the  woman  thought  hirfelfe  that  Ihe  might  not  conceive  withe  childe. 

This  day,  the  bretheren  taking  to  ther  coniideratione  the  eftate  and 
conditione  of  the  great  benefices,  owt  of  the  quhilk  they  have  there  aflig- 
nations,  and  fra  quhilk  fhould  arife  the  maintinance  of  the  fabrick  of  the 
Kirks  and  kirk  dykes,  and  alfo  furniture  for  the  Communione  Elements 
to  be  miniftred  four  tymes  in  the  yeir ;  and  that  [it]  was  expedient 
thir  things  fhould  be  aflured  to  the  Kirks  in  tyme,  They  have  referred 
this  whole  matter  to  the  coniideratione  of  the  Synodal  Aflemblye  nixt 
enfweing ;  as  alfo,  to  have  there  advife  and  concurrance  anent  the  fetling 
of  gleibs  and  manfes,  and  the  fetling  of  viccarage  dweties. 

Aprtte  15. — James  Wilkie  his  cenfure. — James  Wilkie  in  the  parilh  of 
Culleflie,  called  and  compeiring,  the  brether  takeing  to  ther  coniideratione 
the  greatnes  of  his  fault,  (he  being  ane  elder,)  in  breakeing  of  the  Sabboth 
day,  and  labouring  to  cover  the  faid  fine  by  the  teftimonie  of  other  men  ; 
as  alfo,  till  affront  both  the  Seflions  of  Monymaill  and  Culleflie,  ordained 
[him]  firft  to  appear  befor  the  Seffione  of  Culleflie  the  next  Sabboth  day, 


APRIL  1647.  OF  CUPAR.  Ill 

and  humblie  vpon  his  knees  to  acknowledge  his  fault  in  the  abufe  and 
contempt  of  that  Judicatorie  ;  and  immediatelie  therafter  to  be  depofed 
from  his  elderfhipe  be  the  Seffione,  and  the  depofitione  to  be  intimate  the 
Sabboth  following ;  the  quhilk  day,  he  fhall  humblie  acknowledge  vpon 
his  knees  his  great  fine  in  contemneing  the  Kirk  Judicatories ;  and  the 
Sabboth  after  that,  he  fall  publi&lie  fatffie  for  breach  of  the  Sabboth, 
according  to  common  ordour. 

Letter  to  my  Lord  AnnandailL — The  Prefbyterie  refolved  to  writte  to 
my  Lord  Annandaile,  anent  Maige  Reikie  inceftuous ;  as  alfo  anent  Beffie 
Cuper  fufpeded  of  witchecraft. 

Crawfurd  concurreing  in  the  matter  of  Cuper. — The  Erie  of  Craufurd 
being  prefent,  was  defired  to  be  carefull  for  planteing  of  a  fecond  minifter 
in  Cuper,  who  promifed  to  be  carefull ;  and  the  brether  appoynt  this  day 
fourtene  dayes  for  meitteing  of  the  Towne  and  Heritours  of  the  parifh  of 
Cuper  for  that  effe6t,  the  faid  Earle  promifeing  to  be  prefent  the  faid  day, 
and  to  concurre  in  the  matter  foirfaid. 

Aprile  22. — Sir  John  Spottifwoods  declaratione, — Sir  John  Spottifwood 
compeired,  and  being  afked,  if  he  was  in  companie  with  the  Enemie  ?  an- 
fered,  he  came  to  Cuper  to  them  to  feik  back  his  horfes  which  they  had 
taken  from  him.  And  being  enquired,  if  he  did  eate  and  drinke  with  them  ? 
anfered,  he  did  upon  this  occafione  ;  and  being  afked,  whither  he  went  to 
Tarvate  with  them  ?  anfered,  he  did  it,  but  upon  Forther  his  requeft,  that 
he  Ihould  fpeak  to  Rankilour,  that  he  might  fpeake  to  Newtoune  Gor- 
doune  for  him.  And  being  afked,  if  he  went  to  the  Newburgh  with 
them  ?  replyed,  he  did,  to  gett  his  horfes  which  wer  carried  along  to  Aber- 
nethie,  and  not  rendred  without  money.  He  was  alfo  enquired,  if  [he] 
knew  of  any  of  his  fones  goeing  to  the  Enemie  ?  anfered,  that  his  fecond 
fone  went  to  Generall  Ruthwen  when  he  was  abfent  in  Ingland  ;  that  he 
had  bought  five  or  fex  yeiris  fince,  ane  Enfignes  place  for  his  thrid  fone, 
and  fent  him  to  Germanic,  and  had  never  feen  him  fince  that  time,  but 
now  of  late ;  and  laftlie,  that  his  eldeft  fone  went  into  Montrofe,  bothe 
againft  his  knowledge  and  his  will.  And  being  queftioned,  if  he  did  refett 
his  fone  fince  Philiphaugh  ?  anfered,  not  befor  the  generall  licence  and 
publi6t  pardone  of  the  Eftates.  And  being  further  enquired,  if  David 


112  THE  PRESBYTERY  MAY  1647. 

Weitch  was  in  his  houfe  in  the  tyme  of  the  Parliament  of  St.  Andrews  ? 
anfered,  that  he  came  to  it  with  my  Lord  Lundoris :  And  laftlie  being 
afked,  if  my  Lord  Gordoune  or  any  of  his  brether  wer  in  his  houfe  at 
Newmilne  ?  he  anfered,  never.  The  brether  delayed  this  matter  till  this 
day  fiveten  dayes.  Sir  John  was  fummoned  apud  a£ta  to  be  prefent  the 
faid  day.  Mr.  John  Ramfay  defired  to  enquire  of  the  Laird  of  Forther 
and  his  man,  what  they  knew  in  the  matter,  and  the  whole  brether  to 
enquire  in  ther  feverall  feffiones  if  they  did  know  any  point  of  malignan- 
cie  in  the  faid  Sir  Johne. 

AT  NEWBURGH,  13  MAY  1647- 

Elders  of  Newburgh  tJier  confejfione  and  cen/ure. — The  quhilk  day,  the 
Prelbyterie  held  at  Newburgh  for  executione  of  the  ordinance  made 
the  laft  day  at  Cupar.  And  after  fermon  made  be  Mr.  Johne  Durie, 
and  incalling  on  the  name  of  God,  Mr.  James  Wedderburne,  Mode 
rator  for  the  tyme,  afked  Mr.  Laurence  Olyphant,  whither  or  not  he 
had  made  intimatione  of  the  appoyntment  of  the  Prefbyterie  made  the 
laft  day  ?  t anfered,  he  had  done  the  fame,  and  gave  in  the  names  of  the 
elders  who  eate  and  drank  with  Andrew  Anderfone  excommunicate,  viz. 
David  Wentoune,  Johne  Layng,  Thomas  Anderfone,  Patrick  Birrell, 
Johne  Low,  Mr.  David  Fairfull,  Patrick  Ramfay,  and  Andrew  Anderfone 
his  father,  who  prayed  with  his  fone  excommunicate.  The  foirfaid  per- 
fones  being  particularlie  interrogate  be  the  Moderator,  declaired,  they 
drank  with  him.  As  alfo,  the  faid  Mr.  Laurence  gave  in  the  names  of 
thes  who  confeffed  they  did  take  him  by  the  hand,  but  did  not  drinke  with 
him,  wiz.  Johne  Philp,  Patrik  Beatt,  Johne  Birrell.  The  Moderator, 
fhewing  to  the  faids  Elders  the  greatnes  of  ther  fine  with  the  foirfaid  ex 
communicate  perfon,  appoynted  Mr.  Laurence  Olyphant  to  intimate  out 
of  pulpit  the  next  Sabboth,  a  day  of  humiliatione  to  be  keipit  on  Sunday 
come  aucht  dayes  therafter  be  the  whole  parifh  of  Newburgh,  that  all  and 
everie  one  of  them  may  be  humbled  for  fo  great  a  fine.  And  in  particu- 
lair,  the  forfaid  elders  ar  appoynted  to  fitt  befor  the  faid  pulpit  the  faid 
day,  and  everie  one  of  them  particulairlie  to  acknowledge  ther  fine  in 


JUNE  1647.  OF  CUPAR.  113 

converfeing  with  the  forfaid  excommunicate  perfoune  ;  and  Andrew 
Anderfone  for  praying  with  him.  And  therafter  the  faid  Mr.  Laurence 
is  appoynted  to  receave  them.  All  which  was  done  according  to  the 
Aft  of  Synod  made  theranent. 

Maij  27. — David  Blyth  his  repentance. — David  Blyth  in  the  parifh  of 
Ebdie,  (for  fhedding  of  blood  on  the  Sabboth  day,)  is  appoynted  to  ftand 
at  the  kirke  doore  of  Ebdie,  Sonday  next,  barefooted  and  bareheadit,  with 
the  gun  in  his  hand  wherwith  the  blood  wes  fhedde,  vntill  the  laft  bell, 
and  thairafter  to  fitt  befor  the  pulpitt  the  tyme  of  fermon,  and,  after  fer- 
mon,  to  acknowledge  and  confeffe  vpon  his  knees  his  fine,  and  then  be 
receaved. 

June  3. — Intimatione  of  the  a£t  of  the  Committie. — This  day,  the 
brether  reported  ther  diligence  in  intimateing  the  Aft  of  the  Committie 
anent  the  receaveing  of  perfones  comeing  from  places  fufpefted  of  the 
plague,  and  wer  approven  thairin. 

Ad  for  the  two  young  men  ther  repentance. — Mr.  David  Orme,  produce- 
ing  the  proceffe  anent  Mr.  Harie  Cuper  and  Mungo  Duddingftone,  forni- 
catores,  was  approven :  And  they  themfelfes  compeireing  both  in  fack- 
cloth,  wer  ordained  to  fatilfie  according  to  the  Aft  of  the  Synod. L 

Perfones  excommunicate. — Receaved  from  Mr.  Walter  Greig  the  names 
of  the  perfones  excommunicate  by  the  authoritie  of  the  Commiffione  of 
the  Generrall  Aflemblye,  viz.  Mr.  Alexander  Innes,  ane  depofed  minifter ; 
Mr.  William  Maitland,  ane  preacher ;  Ludovicke  Gordone,  fone  to  the 
late  MarquefTe  of  Huntlie  ;  Arthur  Forbes,  ane  follower  of  the  faid  Lu- 
dovick ;  Patrik  Gordoune  with  the  fteill  hand ;  Alexander  Gordoune ; 
Patrik  Leith  of  Harthill ;  Johne  Gordoune  of  Feichell ;  William  Gor 
doune  of  Newtoune  younger. 

June  10. — Fqjt  to  be  keiped. — The  brether  refolved  to  keipe  the  faft  ap 
poynted  be  the  Synod,  and  to  adde  to  the  caufes  contained  in  the  Aft,  the 
fpreading  of  the  plague  within  the  fliyre. 

Letter  to  Faulkland. — Ther  was  ane  letter  drawn  vpe  to  be  fent  to  Faulk- 


They  appear  to  be  the  two  young  men  referred  to  in  the  question  put  by  the  Presbytery 
ic  Synod,  1st  April  1647,  q  v. 


•f         1  J.    —  •/ 

to  the  Synod,  1st  April  1647,  q  v. 


114  THE  PRESBYTERY  JUNE  1647. 

land  and  Auchtermuchtie  to  defire  them  to  forbeare  ther  enfueing  fares 
be  reafone  of  the  peftilence. 

References  read. — The  references  from  the  Synod  to  the  Prelbyterie 
wer  read  in  audience  of  the  brother. 

Familie  exercife  recommendit. — 1 .  The  brether  being  enquired  anent  fa- 
milie  exercife,  declared  they  ufed  diligence :  It  was  recommendit  to  the 
brether  be  the  Moderator  to  ufe  farther  diligence. 

Anent  Schooles. — 2.  Anent  Schooles,  it  was  recommendit  to  the  brether 
to  try  whether  ther  fchooles  wer  provydit  according  to  the  Ad  of  Parlia 
ment,  and  to  report  the  next  day. 

Anent  Da.  Glaine.—3.  Anent  David  Glaine  murtherer,  Mr.  David 
Dalgleifh  reported  he  had  written  to  Mr.  James  Bruce,  promifeing  to 
proceed  after  that  Mr.  James  had  prayed  the  thrid  tyme  for  him. 

Anent  a  colleague  in  Cuper. — 4.  Anent  the  provydeing  for  a  colleague 
to  Mr.  David  Dalgleifh  in  the  Kirk  of  Cuper,  the  brether  refolves  to 
writte  to  the  Commiffione  that  fitts  for  plantatione  of  Kirks,  and  to  con- 
curre  with  the  heritors  and  parifhioners  of  Cuper. 

A£t  anent  Sabboih. — 5.  The  Ad  anent  the  breach  of  the  Sabboth  is  to 
be  extra&ed. 

Anent  pennie  briddels. — 6.  The  Ad  of  Juftice  of  Peace  anent  pennie 
bryddells  to  be  fought  for  be  Mr.  James  Martine  from  Alexander  Mar- 
tiall. 

Vifitatione  of  Kirks  delayed. — Be  reafone  of  the  plague  fpotteing  abroad, 
the  brether  delayed  the  Vifitatione  of  Kirks  for  a  tyme. 

Advice  anent  the  Plague. — The  Laird  of  Fernie,  commiffioner  from  the 
Committie  of  the  Shyre,  compeired,  defireing  the  bretheris  concurrence 
for  preventeing  the  prefent  daunger  of  infedione  :  Quherinto  the  brether 
condifcended,  and  ordained  the  Ad  followeing : — 

This  day,  after  the  incalling  of  the  name  of  God,  the  brether  being 
myndit  be  Sir  James  Arnott  of  Fernie  knyght,  of  the  defire  of  the  Com 
mittie  of  the  Shyre  for  our  concurrence  with  them  to  the  preventeing  of 
the  prefent  daunger  of  infedione,  and  the  fpreading  thairof  in  the  fhyre, 
have  thought  it  our  duetie  to  give  all  our  heartie  concurrence  to  the  ut- 
termoft  of  our  abilitie  in  fuch  a  good  and  neceflar  bufines,  not  only  in  re- 


JUNE  1647.  OF  CUPAR.  115 

gard  of  the  care  that  wee  fliould  have  of  the  outward  focietie  and  peace  of 
the  fliyre,  quherin  everie  one  of  us  have  our  intereft,  but  alfo,  and  fpe- 
ciallie  in  regard  of  the  great  care  incompetent  to  us  anent  our  Lords  glorie, 
and  the  keipeing  of  our  congregationes  togidder  vndiffolved,  quhilk  wee 
would  judge  to  be  the  greateft  plague  of  all,  if  it  ftiould  pleafe  the  Lordfo 
to  difpofe :  Therfor  wee  have  thought  fitt,  if  it  lhall  feeme  guid  to  your 
Honours,  that,  firft,  ye  would  be  pleafed  to  feik  the  concurrence  of  our 
brether  in  other  Prefbyteries :  Secondlie,  wee  have  thocht  guid,  after 
mor  ferious  deliberatione,  that,  if  it  fall  feeme  fitting  to  the  Honourable 
Committie  of  the  fliyre,  tuo  brether  of  our  number,  togidder  with  ane  elder 
lent  from  us,  fall  concur  with  yow  in  this  matter,  with  ther  beft  advice  at 
your  feverall  meittings  as  they  falbe  allowed  and  direfted  by  us  and  re 
quired  by  yow  :  Thridlie,  wee  thinke  it  moft  expedient  that  exa6t  care  be 
taken  in  all  townes  and  landwart  parifhes  of  civill  pafl'es  and  fpirituall 
teftimonialls,  with  fevere  punifhement  againit  the  counterfitters,  and 
fuch  ecclefiaftik  cenfures  as  the  feverall  Seffiones  fall  thinke  expedient  : 
Fourtlie,  wee,  haveing  confidered  the  great  daunger  proceiding  from  the 
difobedience  of  publick  ordoures  of  them  who,  at  this  tyme  and  in  this 
cafe,  hes  the  chairge  of  the  fliyre,  have  thocht  meit  that  whatfomever  pub- 
lift  ordoures  made  by  the  publi6t,  and  feene  and  allowed  be  us,  anent  the 
preventeing  of  the  farther  fpreadeing  of  the  Plague,  is  either  neglegentlie 
or  wilfullie  tranfgreft  and  broken,  we  fall  cenfure  the  faidis  perfones 
fpirituallie,  and  by  thir  prefents  determines  in  maner  after  followeing, 
wiz.  He  that  is  proven  negligent  in  obeyeing  the  publift  ordoures  of  the 
fliyre  duelie  made  and  conftitute  for  the  common  benefite,  and  for  pre- 
venteing  the  fearefull  diffolutione  of  congregationes,  out  of  any  wanton 
or  infolent  humor,  falbe  commandit  be  our  feverall  Seffiones  to  make  his 
repentance  befor  the  pulpit  on  ane  Sabboth  day  as  ane  contemner  of 
guid  ordour,  as  unnaturall  to  his  owne  lyffe,  the  liffe  of  his  familie  and 
neighbouris,  as  vnchriftian  in  negle&ing  the  weilfare  and  profperitie  of 
the  holy  meitteing.  Iff  any  man  throch  willfull  contempt  fall  defpife  the 
ordour  civill,  and  now  this  ordour  fprituall,  be  he  minifter,  elder,  or  one 
of  the  people,  rich  or  poor,  great  or  fmall,  fall  be  under  the  proces  of  the 
Kirk  vntill  the  greateft,  at  the  difcretione  of  the  Prefbyteries:  And  all 


116  THE  PRESBYTERY  SEPT.  1647. 

this  without  the  prejudice  of  the  judgement  and  concurrence  of  our 
brethren  in  the  reft  of  the  Prefbyteries. 

June  24. — Mercates  difcharged. — Mr.  James  Martine  and  Mr.  Wil 
liam  Levingftone  declaired  that,  according  to  the  defire  of  the  Prefby- 
terie,  the  townes  of  Faulkland  and  Auchtermuchtie  had  difcharged  ther 
mercates  becaus  of  the  Plague. 

Andro  Anderfone  fatiffied. — Mr.  Laurence  Olyphant  declaired  that  An- 
dro  Anderfone  elder,  had  fatiified  the  Kirk  according  to  the  ordinance  of 
the  Prelbyterie,  for  prayeing  with  his  fone  excommunicate. 

July  15. — Supplicatione  Johne  Spindie. — This  day,  Johne  Spindie, 
merchant  of  Dalkeith,  declaired  into  the  Prefbyterie  that  he  had  maried 
Jean  Buchan,  but  vnder  the  name  of  Jeane  Paterfone,  and  defired  fhee 
might  be  cleared  of  the  afperfione  of  witchcraft  which  was  put  upon  her, 
that  he  might  have  her  for  his  wyflfe  :  The  Prelbyterie  required  him  to  re 
port  a  teftificate  of  his  marriage  from  Mr.  Hue  Campbell,  minifter  at  Dal 
keith,  and  thairafter  they  wer  to  give  ther  anfer. 

David  Glaine  excommunicate. — Mr.  David  Dalgleifh  reported,  he  had 
pronounced  the  fentence  of  excommunicatione  againeft  David  Glaine, 
murtherej ;  intimatione  to  be  made  thairoff  in  all  the  kirks  of  the  Pref 
byterie,  and  letters  to  be  dire&ed  to  the  other  Prefbyteries,  that  the  fame 
may  be  intimate  throughout  the  province. 

Supplie  for  David  Allerdice, — The  brether  defired  to  deale  with  ther 
feverall  Seffiones  anent  fupplie  for  rebuilding  David  Allerdice  his  houfe 
in  Faukland,  brunt  at  command  of  the  Committie  of  the  fhyre  for  avoyd- 
ing  the  plague. 

John  Hamilton  to  be  fummoned. — Johne  Hammiltoune,  in  the  parifh  of 
Faukland,  to  be  fummoned  againft  the  next  day  for  his  bloodie  oathes 
againes  God,  and  his  mifbehaviour  towards  his  minifter. 

Augujl  26. — Helen  Deas  to  be  fummoned. — Helen  Deas  appoynted  to 
be  fummoned  for  abufeing  of  the  place  of  repentance,  and  her  not  give- 
ing  fatiffa&ione  to  the  congregatione. 

September  9. — A  reference  anent  Schooles. — A  reference  to  the  Synod 
anent  provifione  of  Schooles  in  a  tuofold  refped;  firft,  of  thes  pa- 
rilhes  that  ar  large  and  great  may  take  themfelfes  to  the  leaft  alterna- 


OCT.  1647.  OF  CUPAR.  117 

tive  contained  in  the  a6t  of  Parliament  made  anent  Schooles,  wiz.  a  hun- 
dreth  merkis,  or  may  be  ftented  higher,  according  to  the  largenes  and 
proportione  with  other  parifties  ?  Secondlie,  whither  Schooles  formerlie 
provydit,  but  not  reacheing  to  this  leaft  alternative  of  ane  hundreth  mer 
kis,  may  the  pariihioners  be  now  urged  be  vertue  of  this  late  a6t  of  Par 
liament,  made  in  favours  of  Schooles,  to  provyde  the  fchole  according  to 
the  fame  or  not  ? 

September  16. — John  Hamilton  compeireth. — John  Hamiltoune,  in  the 
parifh  of  Faukland,  called  and  compeirand,  confeffed  his  fault ;  was  ap- 
poynted  to  acknowledge  the  fame  vpon  his  knees  befor  the  minifter  and 
baylzies,  firft  in  the  place  wher  he  committed  it,  fecondlie  befor  the  fef- 
fione,  and  thridlie  befor  the  pulpit. 

October  21. — Pennie  bryddells. — The  Prelbyterie,  confidering  the  A6t  of 
the  late  Synod  holden  at  Dumfermling,  the  6  of  Aprile  1647,  for  repreffing 
the  abufes  in  pennie  bryddells,  and  finding  the  faid  a&  to  be  relative  to  ane 
a6t  of  Juftice  of  Peace  made  to  that  effe&  the  24  of  February  1636,  does 
thairfor,  ordaine  the  forfaid  a6t  of  Synod  to  be  read  from  all  the  pulpitts,  that 
none  pretend  ignorance  thairoff,  and  that  the  number  at  fuch  brydles  be 
ftraitlie  vrged  to  be  conforme  to  the  number  contained  in  the  a6t  of  Juf 
tice  of  Peace,  extending  to  20,  and  at  inoft  not  exceiding  24;  and  that  the 
number  at  contrafts  and  banquetts  of  this  kyndbe  thejufthalfeheiroff;  and 
that,  vnder  the  paines  contained  in  the  faid  a6t  of  Juftice  of  Peace :  And 
for  getteing  of  better  obedience  heirinto,  minifters  ar  ordained  not  to  con- 
trad  any  parties  vntill  they  obleidge  themfelfes  to  fullfill  the  premiffes,  and 
find  cautione  for  that  effe6t ;  and  everie  Seffione  is  appoynted  to  have  the 
copie  of  the  above  fpecifiet  aft  of  Juftice  of  Peace. 

This  day,  compeired  Mr.  Andro  Louthian  fornicator,  was  judiciallie  dif- 
charged  from  preaching  and  from  any  other  publi6t  exercife  which  befor 
he  might  have  done  as  ane  expe6tant ;  and  that  for  the  fornicatione  latelie 
committed  by  him. 

This  day,  Jonet  Jethfeman,  being  wounditt  in  foule,  greived  in  fpirit, 
and  fore  prefled  vnder  the  burden  of  ane  adulterie  committed  by  her  nyne 
yeirs  agoe  in  Cuper,  with  one  Ja.  Southerland,  compeired  of  her  owne  ac 
cord,  confefled  the  fame,  and  offred  fatiffadione  for  it,  as  the  onlie  meane 


118  THE  PRESBYTERY  MARCH  1648. 

to  heale  her  woundes  and  calme  her  ipirit :  Shoe  is  referred  vntill  the  next 
dyett ;  and  lead  (hoe  fhould  be  fwallowed  upe  of  forrow,  Mrs.  Walter 
Greig  and  William  Row  ar  appoynted  to  conferre  with  her,  and  minifter 
fpirituall  comfort  to  her. 

[Mr.  John  Hall,  minifter  at  Kilfpindie.] 

December  2. — This  day,  the  Prefbyterie  appoynted  everie  brother  to 
deall  with  ther  elders,  after  a  fpeciall  maner,  for  fetteing  vpe  the  woor- 
lliippe  of  God  in  ther  families,  and  whatfomever  elder  after  dealleing  did 
want  the  fame  vfuallie,  to  be  depofed. 

December  16. — Catherine  Jamefone,  in  the  parifh  of  Cults,  appoynt 
ed  to  be  fummoned  for  hir  railing  from  the  place  of  publick  repentance. 

December  30. — This  day,  Mr.  Andro  Louthian  compeired  befor  the 
Prefbyterie,  acknowlegded  with  teares  his  great  fine;  was  appoynted 
to  be  receaved  the  next  Lords  day  in  the  kirk  of  Faukland,  from  the  or- 
dinarie  place  of  repentance,  be  the  minifter  ther. 

January  13,  1648. — The  report  from  the  feverall  Seffiones  anent  the 
number  of  copies  of  the  Dire&iones  for  Familie  woorfhippe  they  would 
take  for  the  ufe  of  ther  parifhes,  was  as  followes :  Cuper  reported  they 
would  take  ane  100,  Darfie  20,  Cults  16,  Faukland  50,  Auchtermuchtie 
20,  Dunbug  10,  Creich  20,  Flifk  10,  Logic  16,  Moonfie  8,  Monymaill  20, 
Culleflie  30. 

Catharine  Jamefone  appoynted  to  fitt  one  day  in  fackcloth  for  her  for 
mer  mifbehaviour. 

This  day,  the  Prefbyterie  ordained  everie  brother  who  had  not  a  com 
petent  ftipend  to  ufe  all  legall  meanes  for  helpeing  thairoff. 

January  27. — This  day,  the  Prefbyterie  ordained  that  all  young  ftu- 
dents  who  waittes  on  noblemen  or  gentlemen  within  thir  bounds,  aither 
to  teach  ther  children  or  catechife  and  pray  in  ther  families,  to  frequent 
the  Prefbyterie,  that  the  brether  may  cognofce  what  they  ar  reading,  and 
what  proficiencie  they  make  in  ther  ftudies,  and  to  know  alfo  ther  beha 
viour  in  the  faid  families,  and  of  ther  afFe&ione  to  the  Covenant  and  pre- 
fent  religione. 

March  2. — The  overture  anent  receaveing  of  complaints,  that  is,  if 
bills  or  complaints  be  prefented  to  the  Prefbyterie,  and  be  not  in  fuch 


MARCH  1648.  OF  CUPAR.  119 

grave,  fober,  and  plaine  termes,  without  affe&atione,  and  without  imita- 
tione  of  that  libertie  in  libelling  any  thing  vfed  befor  civill  judicatories  ; 
and  if  they  be  not  fuch  as  doeth  altogether  befeeme  ecclefiaftick  judica- 
tories,  the  Prelbyterie  ordaines  all  fuch  in  all  tyme  comeing  to  be  reje&ed 
and  nowayes  receaved. 

[Mr.  Henrie  Smith,  minifter  at  Beath.] 

March  9. — This  day,  Mr.  Laurence  Olyphant  gave  in  his  compts  of  the 
receipts  of  that  money  colle&ed  for  the  diftreffed  people  of  Argyll,  within 
the  bounds  of  the  Prefbyterie,  with  ane  difcharge  from  Sir  James  Stewart 
of  the  fame ;  which  being  compared  with  the  former  compt  was  found 
to  agrie  with  the  fame,  and  thairfor  appointed  to  be  infert  in  the  Pref- 
byteries  books  ;  the  tenour  wheroff  followes,  videlicet : — 

I,  James  Stewart,  merchant,  of  Edinburgh,  grauntis  me  to  have  ressavit  from  Mr.  Laurence 
Olyphant,  minister  of  Newburgh,  in  the  Presbyterie  of  Cuper,  the  sowme  of  sex  hundretli 
fourscoir  and  fourtene  libs,  as  the  collectione  above  specifeit  for  the  distressed  people  of  Ar 
gyll,  quheroff  I  dischairge  the  said  Mr.  Laurence  in  name  of  the  said  Presbyterie,  by  wertue 
of  ane  warrant  of  the  Generall  Assembly  ordaineing  me  to  receave  the  severall  contributiones  : 
Witness  my  hand  at  Edinburgh  the  19  of  Feb.  1648. 

J.  STEWART. 

Mr.  Alexander  Balfour,  this  day,  afked  refolutione  of  the  brether  in  thes 
particulairs,  wiz.  Whether  deacons  fhould  have  ane  decifive  voyce  in  Sef- 
liones  equall  with  elders  or  not  ?  S^ie,  Whether  heritores,  formerlie  elders, 
but  not  refidentaries  in  the  parifh,  if  vpone  occafione  they  come  to  the 
Seffione,  may  have  equall  woyce  with  refidentarie  elders  ?  3<llie,  Whether 
a  child  brocht  foorth  in  the  beginning  of  the  feventh  [moneth]  may  live, 
and  whether  the  parents  of  that  child  fhould  be  punifhed  as  fornicatores, 
it  being  immediately  after  ther  marrage  ?  The  brether  referes  the  an- 
fer  to  thes  vntill  the  next  day. 

March  1 6. — The  brether,  confidering  the  feverall  provifiones  of  Minif- 
ters  within  ther  bounds,  and  finding  many  not  fufficientlie  provided, 
did  require  them  all,  and  moft  particulairlie  Mr.  Walter  Greig,  to  vfe 
all  lawfull  and  ordinarie  diligence  to  gett  ther  provifiones  helped  ;  and  Mr. 
Walter  Greig  was  peremptorilie  appoynted  to  vfe  diligence  for  that  ef- 
fe6b,  becaus  formerlie  he  could  not  gett  it  done  becaus  of  the  malice  and 


120  THE  PRESBYTERY  APRIL  1648. 

might  of  Bifhopes  againft  him,  which  the  brether  conceives  fhould  be 
ane  motive  to  the  Lords  of  plantatione  now  to  fie  him  both  the  better 
provyded,  and  the  mor  fpeedilie  difpatched. 

March  23. — The  brether  takeing  to  ther  confideratione  the  fuppli- 
catione  prefented  to  them  this  day  be  Effie  Wichtoune,  together  with 
her  prefent  eftate  and  conditione,  and  the  conditione  of  the  child  latelie 
brocht  foorth  by  her  in  fornicatione  with  Mungo  Duddingftone  and  Mr. 
Henrie  Cuper,  how  that  they  aF  both  lyke  to  perifh  by  famine,  becaus 
none  of  the  forfaid  young  men  will  owne  the  child,  or  doe  the  duetie'of 
a  parent  therinto.  And  the  Prefbyterie  alfo  finding  the  faid  matter,  to 
wit,  which  of  tlies  tuo  fhould  be  father  into  that  child,  had  not  yet  beene 
concluditt  nor  determined  by  any  competent  court  be  a  judge  competent, 
that  both  thes  tuo  fall  joyntlie  contribute  for  the  child's  maintenance,  and 
that  vnder  the  paine  of  being  lyable  till  further  cenfures  of  the  Kirk. 

March  30. — This  day,  the  Moderatour  earneftlie  recommenditt  to  the 
brether  that  they  would  be  carefull  to  choife  the  ableft  and  bed  affefted 
elders  for  waitteing  on  the  Prefbyterie  the  next  half  yeir. 

April  1 3. — Thomas  Owne  and  James  Owne  in  Logie,  being  formerlie  fum- 
niond,  wer  called,  and  compeireing,  confeffed  werie  groffe  and  fcandalous 
drunkennes  and  breach  of  Sabboth,  wer  appoynted  to  fatiffie  for  the  fame 
in  the  thrie  Kirks  of  Logie,  Kilmanie,  and  Balmerinoch,  and  that  from 
the  publick  place  of  repentance,  and  the  faid  Thomas  to  be  in  fackcloth  ; 
and  that  it  be  intimate  in  all  the  thrie  Kirks  vnto  them,  that  they  falbe 
excommunicate  if  they  continue  in  the  forfaid  faults  and  not  amend ;  and 
that  they  pay  ther  penaltie  to  the  Seffione  of  Logie,  wherinto  they  ar 
prefentlie  remitted  for  receaving  ther  injun&iones. 

April  27. — This  day,  the  Moderatour  enquired  everie  brother  anent 
the  repreflTeing  of  drunkennes,  fweareing,  and  the  profanatione  of  the 
Lords  day  in  ther  feverall  parifhes  ;  all  the  brether  promifed  to  fie  to  the 
reprefieing  of  the  forfaid  vices. 

[Mr.  James  Gillefpie,  minifler  at  Rind.] 

This  day,  Mr.  Andro  Louthian  prefented  ane  humble  fupplicatione  to 
the  Prefbyterie,  defireing  that  his  mouth  might  be  opened  againe.  The 
brether,  willing  to  know  his  carriagde  fince  the  declaratione  of  his  re- 


MAY  1648.  OF  CUPAR.  121 

pentance,  defired  Mr.  William  Levingftoune  to  afke  the  Seffione  of  Fauk- 
land  thairanent,  and  to  report. 

This  day,  the  Moderatour  enquired  the  brethren  and  ruleing  elders,  if 
the  Declaratione  had  been  read  by  everie  minifler,  and  if  any  did  put 
wrong  glofles  thairupon,  and  if  any  of  the  people  did  remove  from  heare- 
ing  it  read ;  and  in  all  the  prsemiffes  nothing  was  found  contrair  to  the  A6t 
of  the  Commiffione  of  the  Kirk. 

This  day,  Mr.  Andro  Bennett  declaired,  that  he  had  receaved  tuo  thou- 
farid  merkis,  left  by  Mr.  Alexander  Henderfone l  to  the  fchoole  of  Creich  ; 
afked  adwice  how  it  might  be  beft  fecured :  The  brether  defired  him  to 
adwife  with  the  Shereff-clerk  thairanent  vntill  the  next  day. 

May  1 1 . — The  brether,  this  day,  appoynted  Mr.  John  Ramfay  to  defire 
the  brether  of  Kirkcaldie,  and  Mr.  David  Raitt,  with  Creich,  to  defire  the 
brether  of  St.  Andros,  to  meitt  with  them  Twefday  forfaid,  for  mutuall 
adwice  and  concurrence  in  thir  difficill  tymes.  Mr.  John  Ramfay  was  alfo 
to  feik  and  crave  the  adwice  of  the  Commiffione  of  the  Kirk  for  minifters 
better  direftione  in  the  faid  tymes,  and  to  returne  againft  the  day  of  ther 
firft  meitteing. 

May  16. — The  quhilk  day,  the  brethren  being  mett  with  the  brethren 
of  other  Prefbyteries,  according  to  the  former  appoyntement,  they  did  re- 
ceave  ane  letter  from  the  Commiffione  of  the  Kirk,  which  was  dire&ed  to 
all  the  four  Prefbyteries  within  the  province  ;  wherby  the  faid  Commiffione 
did  require  everie  minifter  to  keipe  himfelfe  frie  from  giveing  adwice,  af- 
fent,  or  countenance  to  this  prefent  Levie ;  as  alfo,  that  no  Prefbyterie 
fhould  fend  any  of  ther  number  along  therwith  :  Wherinto  all  the  brether 
did  particulairlie  afTent. 

This  day,  the  brethren  of  Cuper,  with  the  adwice  of  the  brether  from 
other  Prefbyteries,  did  condefcend  and  ordaine  that  fupplicationes  from 
feverall  Prefbyteries,  Vniverfities,  and  Burghes,  fhould  be  provided,  to  be 
prefented  to  the  Committie  of  warre  in  the  fhire,  which  was  to  hold  Thurfe- 
day  next ;  and  that  the  feverall  Prefbyteries  fhould  meitt  apart  for  that 

1  Mr.  Henderson  was  Minister  of  Leuchars,  and  afterwards  of  Edinburgh.  This  money, 
left  to  his  native  parish,  was  "  for  mantenance  of  aue  Scoole  in  the  Towne  of  Lithrie,  within 
the  parish  of  Creich."  (Aiton's  Life  of  Henderson,  p.  663.)  He  died  in  August  1646. 

Q 


122  THE  PRESBYTERY  JUNE  1648. 

effe&,  the  other  thrie  on  Weddenfeday,  and  this  Prefbyterie  of  Couper  on 
Thurfeday  next  in  the  ordinarie  place  of  meitteing. 

It  was  alfo  appoynted,  by  this  meitteing,  that  correfpondence  fhould  be 
keiped  with  brether  of  other  fhires. 

It  was  recommenditt,  be  this  prefent  meitteing,  to  the  feverall  Prefby- 
teries,  that  they  fhould  enquire  of  everie  brother  abfent  from  this  meitte 
ing  the  reafones  of  his  abfence,  and  to  cenfure  them  if  the  fame  be  not 
found  relevant ;  as  alfo,  to  require  ther  afTent  and  approbatione  of  the  in- 
ftru&iones  of  the  Kirk,  formerlie  mentioned. 

This  day,  40  copies  of  the  Short  Informatione  wer  receaved  be  the 
Prefbyterie,  at  8  pennies  the  peice. 

May  25. — Miniflers  ar  required  to  deall  with  ther  parifhioners  not  to 
goe  on  in  the  Proteftatione  taken  be  Craufurd  againes  the  fupplicationes 
of  the  feverall  Prefbyteries. 

The  Prefbyterie  doeth  appoynt  ther  fupplicatione  to  be  infert  in  all  ther 
Seffiones  books,  and  that  everie  SefFione  might  give  ther  approbatione 
tlierinto. 

June  1 . — This  day,  the  brether  wer  defired  to  try  if  they  could  bring  in 
a  copie  of  the  Proteftatione  forfaid,  that  they  may  the  mor  warrantablie 
proceid  againft  the  fubfcribers  thairoff. 

June  8. — Chrifliane  Barclay  and  Catharine  Smyth  compeired  this  day ; 
and  Chriftane  Barclay  complained  on  the  faid  Catharine  Smyth  that  fhoe 
had  ftriken  her  within  the  kirk,  quhill  fhoe  was  on  her  knees  praying. 
The  quhilk  complaint  the  brether  finding  to  be  of  truth,  or  at  leaft  find 
ing  the  faid  Catharine  to  have  mifcarried  werie  farre  in  the  kirk  to  the 
faid  Chriftiane,  did  ordaine  Catharine  forfaid  to  fatiffie  for  the  fame  befor 
the  pulpitt  of  Creich  the  next  Sabboth. 

June  15. — This  day,  was  prefented  to  the  brethren  ane  A&  of  the  Com- 
miflione  of  the  Kirk,  which  being  read  and  approven  be  all,  was  ordained 
to  be  infert  and  regiftrat  in  the  Prefbyterie  book ;  the  tenour  wheroff 
followes : — 

Edinburgh  the  5  of  June  1 648. — The  Commissione  of  the  Generall  Assembly  recommends 
seriouslie  to  Presbyteries  to  take  speciall  notice  and  tryall  of  every  brotheris  carriagde  in  the 
publict  busines.  That  iff  any  be  found  who  doe  not  declair  themselfes  againest  the  present 


JUNE  1648.  OF  CUPAR.  123 

Ingagement,  nor  joyne  with  ther  brethren  in  ther  common  Resolutiones  againest  it,  nor  give 
publict  informatione  to  the  people  off  the  Vnlawfulnes  of  it,  they  may  be  referred  to  the  next 
Generall  Assemblie  ;  and  if  any  of  them  have  alreadie  declaired  themselfes  for  it,  that  they  be 
presentlie  censured. 

Sic  subscribitur,     MR.  ANDRO  KEB. 

? 
Four  copies  of  Mr.  Zacharie  Boyd  his  Pfalmes  wer  delyvered  this  day 

to  the  Prefbyterie,  to  be  adwifed  with  vntill  the  next  General  Affembly. 
June  22. — This  day,  ane  letter  from  the  Commiffione  of  the  Kirk,  with 
the  Caufes  of  the  Faft  to  be  holden  the  laft  Thurfeday  of  June  and  firfl 
Sabboth  of  July,  wer  delyvered  into  the  Preibyterie  ;  which  Caufes  wer  ap- 
poynted  to  be  regiftrate  in  the  Prefbyterie  book ;  the  tenour  whereof  fol- 
lowes : — 

1 .  Wee  ar  to  mourne  for  all  the  sines  and  provocationes  mentioned  in  the  Causes  of  our  for 
mer  humiliatione,  quhilk  doe  continue  and  abound  notwithstanding  of  all  our  obligationes  to 
reforme  our  wayes,  and  many  former  solemne  professiones  of  repentance,  and  of  all  the  sharpe 
rods  wherwith  God  corrects  us,  and  heavie  jugdementis  quherwith  he  now  threatenes  us. 

2.  Wee  ar  in  speciall  way  to  be  humbled  for  the  countenance  that  hath  beine  given,  and 
compliancie  that  hath  beene  made,  by  too  many  with  Malignants  and  persones  disaffected  to  the 
worke  of  reformatione,  which,  in  the  just  jugdement  of  God,  at  last  hes  put  such  power  and 
strenth  in  ther  hands  as  is  terrible  to  the  people  of  God,  and  threatens  his  worke  with  ruine. 

3.  Wee  ar  to  bewaille  the  small  proficiencie  wnder  the  preaching  of  many,  the  great  con 
tempt  of  the  Gospell  in  others,  and  the  great  hardnes  of  heart  and  obstinacie  in  some,  not  only 
into  the  despiseing  and  reproacheing  of  the  ministrie,  but  to  the  rejecteing  of  the  most  power- 
full  word  of  exhortatione  in  the  mouthe  of  his  servands. 

4.  Wee  ar  to  be  humbled  for  the  greivous  backslyding  that  is  amongs  us,  which  hath  pre 
vailed  to  the  vndertakeing  of  ane  vnlawfull  Ingagdement,  notwithstanding  of  many  petitiones 
from  Burghs,  Shyres,  Presbyteries  and  Synods  to  the  contrarie ;  which  vndertakeing,  besyd 
many  sad  effects  amongst  ourselves,  is  lyke  to  rent  in  sunder  the  vnion  betwixt  the  kingdomes, 
and  not  only  obstruct  the  progresse  of  the  worke  of  reformatione,  but  overturne  the  funda- 
tiones  alreadie  laid. 

5.  Wee  ar  to  lament  befor  the  Lord  the  oppressione  of  his  people  in  many  places  of  this 
kingdome,  vnto  the  spoyling  of  ther  goods,  offering  violence  to  ther  persones,  and  forceing  of 
ther  consciences,  by  causeing  ather  to  endure  great  afflictione,  or  to  sine  againest  God  by  being 
accessorie  to  a  sinful  course. 

6.  Wee  ar  deeplie  to  be  humbled  that  the  Parliament  now  risen,  they  have  beine  so  farre 
from  satisfieing  the  just  and  necessar  desires  of  the  Kirke,  or  to  the  Petitiones  presented  into 
them,  that  they  have  enjoyned  obedience  to  all  thair  ordours  vpon  the  grounds  of  ther  De- 
claratione  in  Aprill. 


124  THE  PRESBYTERY  AUG.  1648. 

7.  Wee  ar  to  intreat  the  Lord  in  behalfe  of  our  King,  that  he  may  be  convinced  and  repent 
of  the  evillis  of  his  former  wayes,  and  may  be  inclined  to  the  love  and  approbatione  of  the 
work  of  God  :  And  in  behalfe  of  thcs  who  have  power  of  the  kingdome  in  ther  hands,  that 
they  may  desist  from  everie  sinfull  course,  and  satisfie  the  just  and  necessar  desires  of  the  Kirke, 
and  consciences  of  the  weill  affected  in  the  land,  by  secureing  religione,  and  preserveing  the 
vnion  betuixt  the  tuo  kingdomes  and  monarchical!  governement  in  the  persone  of  the  King 
and  of  his  posteritie. 

8.  Wee  ar  to  begge  of  God  that  all  the  purposes,  both  of  Sectaries  and  of  the  Popish  pre- 
laticall  and  malignant  partie  in  all  the  thrie  kingdomes,  agninest  the  truth  and  worke  of  God, 
may  be  disappoynted,   and  ther  power  crushed.     So  also  that  the  Lord  would  strenthen  his 
people  in  all  these  dominions  to  adhear,  without  shrinkeing  or  fainteing,  to  the  cause  of  God, 
and  bear  a  faithfull  testimonie  thairto  in  the  day  of  tentatione. 

9.  Lastlie,  wee  ar  to  pray  for  a  blissing  vpon  the  ensueing  General!  Assemblie,  that  they 
may  meitt  in  peace  and  love,  and,  being  furnished  with  the  spirit  of  vnitie  and  faithfulnes,  wis- 
dome  and  zeall,  they  may  so  carie  themselfes  in  everie  thing  as  that  the  hopes  and  designes  of 
disaffected  men  may  be  disappoynted,  truth  may  be  preserved,  holynes  promoved  amongst  our- 
selfes,  and  the  worke  of  vniformitie  advanced  among  our  neighboures. 

The  League  and  Covenant  was  this  day  appoynted  to  be  read  be  everie 
brother  the  firft  day  of  the  faft,  to  the  people,  and  ther  diligence  herein 
to  be  enquyred  the  next  dyett. 

This  jlay,  the  brether  wer  defired  to  require  ther  people  to  delay  the 
mercatt  of  Auchtermuchtie,  which  was  to  fall  the  day  following  the  faft, 
vntill  the  Twefday  thairafter. 

Augii/l  24. — This  day  was  presented  a  letter  from  the  Commiffione  of 
the  Kirke,  wherby  they  require  everie  brother  to  advertife  ther  people 
that  they  be  not  taken  with  thes  Obfervationes  emitted  be  the  Eftaittes 
vpon  the  Generall  AfTemblie  ther  Declaratione,  vntill  ther  anfers  fhould 
come  forth  into  them.  All  the  brether  promifed  to  doe  as  it  was  re 
quired. 

Thomas  Duncane  in  Sires,  haveing  complained  to  that  Seffione  on 
Henry  Anderfone,  that  the  faid  Henrie  had  laid  that  Thomas  forfaid  had 
lyen  with  this  Henrie  his  wyffe ;  and  the  Seffione  haveing  defired  the  ad- 
wice  of  Prefbyterie  therintill,  the  Prefbyterie  did  ordaine  the  faid  Henrie 
to  make  declaratione  of  his  repentance  in  fackcloth  for  his  ordinarie 
drunkennes,  and  for  flandering  of  his  wyflfe,  haveing  vpon  tryall  found  the 
whole  matter  to  be  but  flaunder. 


OCT.  1648.  OF  CUPAR.  125 

Augu/i  31. — Mr.  John  Ramfay  and  Mr.  Wm.  Lwincftone  fent  to  Brunt- 
Hand. — This  day,  Mr.  John  Ramfay  and  Mr.  William  Levingftoune  wer 
dire&ed  from  the  Prefbyterie  to  Bruntiland,  ther  to  deall  with  the  meit- 
teing  of  Burrowes,  that  fome  courfe  might  be  taken  be  them  for  prevente- 
ing  any  further  effufione  of  innocent  blood. 

September  14. — The  Prefbyterie  did  defire  Mr.  Walter  Greig  and  Mr. 
David  Dalgleifh  to  goe  to  the  Committie,  and  in  name  of  the  brether,  offer 
ther  affiftance  and  bed  concurrence  for  furthering  and  advanceing  heir 
the  work  of  God  in  this  day  of  Jacobs  trouble,  and  to  exhorte  them  to 
ftedfaftnes. 

September  21. — The  quhilk  day  ther  was  no  exercife,  be  reafone  the 
Prefbyterie  was  laitt  in  conveineing,  becaufe  of  thir  prefent  feares  and 
troubles. 

October  12. — Reference  anent  ane  expe6bant,  who  haveing  fallen  in  for- 
nicatione,  and  haveing  contrafted  the  partie  with  whom  he  fell,  refufes 
to  performe  the  marriagde,  notwithftanding  the  woman  allegdes  promife 
vpon  oath  ;  which  fhe,  being  defired  to  purfue  befor  the  jugde  compe 
tent,  has  never  yet  purfued :  How  the  Prefbyterie  fall  proceid  in  the  faid 
matter  ? 

O&ober  1 8. — The  AfTembly  ordenes  the  haill  minifters  and  ruling  elders 
of  the  Prefbyterie  of  Couper  to  meitt  at  the  kirk  of  Darfie,  with  Mrs. 
Patrik  Scougall,  James  Bruce,  and  Andrew  Honnyman,  minifters,  with 
the  Laird  of  Creich  and  Kingcraig,  ruling  elders,  for  removeing  of  the 
monuments  of  idolatry  and  fuperftitiouri  in  the  faid  kirk  of  Darfie  ;  and 
cognofcing  the  haill  fabrick  theirof.  And  the  meiting  to  be  wpon  Monon- 
day  nixt  the  23d  of  this  inftant.  And  the  Minifter  to  mak  intimatioun 
theirof  wpon  Sonday  nixt  to  the  heritors  and  elders  to  be  prefent  for  that 
effeft.  l 

1  The  meeting  was  accordingly  held  at  Darsie,  but  the  minute  is  totally  silent  as  to  these 
monuments  of  idolatry,  it  being  exclusively  devoted  to  the  erection  and  division  of  seats  in  the 
church.  But,  fortunately,  the  Synod  Record  informs  us,  t:  That  at  the  entrie  of  siudrie  deskis, 
upon  the  platforme,  and  above  the  great  west  doore,  there  are  crosiar  staffes,  in  some  part  alon, 
and  in  other  as  a  aditament  and  cognisance  of  the  last  pretended  Bischops  arrnes,  not  being 
any  signe  or  cognisance  ordinarie  and  commune  in  that  name  or  familie,  bot  meirlie  a  signe  of 


126  THE  PRESBYTERY  DEC.  1648. 

November  2. — This  day,  Mr.  George  Thomfon  declared,  that  Mr.  David 
Kyimeir  in  face  of  their  Seflioun  declared  that  he  had  fubfcryved  the 
Proteflatioun  againft  the  Supplicatioun,  and  that  he  rewed  nothing  of 
the  doing  of  it ;  and  if  it  were  to  doe,  he  would  doe  it  over  againe :  to 
which  he  added  (after  ibme  interruption)  out  of  the  intention  he  had  done 
it,  which,  (as  he  affirmed)  was  for  the  glory  of  God,  the  good  of  the  Kirk, 
and  the  releife  of  his  Prince.  Wherupon  the  Prefbyterie  advyfed  that 
the  faid  Mr.  David  fhould  be  procefled  be  the  Seffioun  of  Kilmany,  and 
be  fufpendit  from  being  ane  elder. 

November  16. — The  whilk  day,  Mr.  George  Thomfone  declares  that 
Mr.  David  Kynneir,  being  called  befor  the  Seffioun  of  Kilmany,  did  de 
clare  that  he  was  fory  that  he  had  fpoken  any  thing  that  did  give  offence  ; 
and  that  the  purpofe  of  his  fpeach  was  not  to  juftifie  his  aftione,  but  only 
his  intention  in  refpeft  of  the  aftion ;  fubmitting  to  the  judgement  of  the 
Kirk :  wherfor,  furder  proceffe  againft  him  is  delayed  till  the  Aft  of  the 
Commiffione  of  the  Kirk  be  fein. 

This  day,  Mr.  David  Orme  produceth  a  roll  of  Hhe  names  of  thefe  that 
had  fied  fhearers  on  the  Sabbath  day  in  Abernethie,  September  17  and 
24.  It  is  ordeined  that  they  be  procefied  and  cenfured  in  their  ieverall 
Sefliouns. 

December  7- — This  day,  a  letter  is  produced  from  the  Commiffioun  of 
the  Kirk,  together  with  the  copies  of  the  League  and  Covenant,  and  the 
folemne  acknowledgement,  and  the  Aft  of  the  Generall  AfTemblie  for  re 
newing  of  the  Covenant ;  together  with  the  aft  for  debarring  from  the 
Covenant  and  Communion ;  together  with  anfwers  to  the  Committies 
Obfervations  wpon  the  Aflemblies  Declaratione.  In  obedience  to  the 
whilk  lettre,  the  Prefbyterie  refolued  as  followes.  The  Prefbyterie,  con- 
fidering  the  papers  now  at  laft  come  to  ther  hands  (although  ftraitned 

his  degrie  hierarchical!,  according  to  the  maner  and  forme  used  among  the  Romane  hierarchists, 
and  others  following  them  :"  and  that  there  is  "  a  glorious  partition  wall,  with  a  degrie  ascend 
ing  thereto,  dividing  the  bodie  of  the  kirk  fra  there  queir  (as  it  is  ordinarlie  called  in  papistrie, 
and  among  them  that  follow  papists) ;  and  above  the  great  doore  of  their  queir,  so  called,  the 
armes  of  Scotland  and  England  quartered,  with  divers  crosses  about  and  beside  them,  are  set 
up."  All  these  were  ordered  to  be  removed  by  the  Synod  as  being  superstitious. 


DEC.  1648.  OF  CUPAR.  127 

with  tyme)  yet  refolving  to  ufe  all  poffible  diligence  to  joyne  with  the 
reft  of  the  Kirk  in  renewing  of  the  folemne  League  and  Covenant  at  the 
tyme  apointed  by  the  Commiffioun  of  the  Kirk,  have  apointed  that  on 
Sunday  nixt,  after  fermon  in  the  foirnoon,  the  A&s  refpe6tive  of  the  Com 
miffioun  of  the  Kirk,  with  the  explanation  be  publickly  red,  together 
with  the  folemne  acknowledgement  of  publick  finnes ;  That  the  faft  be  in- 
timat  on  the  faid  day  to  be  obferved  on  Thurefday  nixt,  and  the  Saboth 
following,  and  the  Covenant  to  be  renewed  that  day  according  to  the 
order  prefcryved  ;  And  that  all  the  congregatioun  be  requyred  to  dilate 
to  the  Seffioun  (to  be  keiped  that  day)  any  whom  they  know  to  come 
vnder  the  compafle  of  the  ads  of  being  debarred  from  the  Covenant  and 
communion ;  And  that  ewerie  minifter  enquyre  particularly  in  the  Sef 
fioun  that  day,  and  tak  up  a  lift  of  thefe  that  come  wnder  the  compaflTc 
of  the  forfaid  a6bs ;  and  to  caufe  fummond  the  faidis  perfones  to  the  Pref- 
byterie,  to  be  keiped  wpon  Monday  nixt  for  that  purpofe,  that  their  it 
may  be  cleired  who  ar  to  be  debarred,  and  who  not ;  and  if  any  being 
fummond  doe  not  compeir,  it  is  ordeined  that  their  procefles  ly  over  till 
after  the  renewing  of  the  Covenant,  and  that  they  be  debarred  in  the 
meantyme :  Alfo,  it  is  appointed,  that  the  information  of  the  prefent  con 
dition  of  affaires,  and  declaration  concerning  prefent  dueties  from  the 
Commiffioun  of  the  Generall  Affemblie  to  the  Kirk  and  Kingdome  be 
publikly  red  wpon  the  Thurefday  of  the  faft,  after  the  foirnoons  fermon 
before  the  bleffing :  Alfo,  if  any  being  dilated  cannot  be  gotten  fummond 
perfonally,  being  from  home,  it  is  apointed,  that  they  be  delayed  till  after 
wards. 

December  11. — The  whilk  day,  the  brethren  meiting  according  to  the 
apointment  of  the  former  day,  after  incalling  of  the  name  of  God,  did  pro- 
ceid  againft  delinquents  in  the  mater  of  the  vnlawfull  Engadgement,  as 
followes : — 

Firft,  dilated  by  the  Seffioun  of  Couper,  as  having  charge  in  the  en- 
gadgement,  Andrew  Paterfone  lievetennent,  David  Johnfton  younger, 
quartermafter,  Captain  Robert  Whyt. 

Andrew  Paterfone  and  David  Johnefon  called,  compeireing,  and  found 
to  have  had  charge  in  that  vnlawTfull  Engadgement,  ar  fufpendit  from  the 


128  THE  PRESBYTERY  DEC.  1648. 

Covenant  and  communion  till  the  nixt  Generall  Affembly,  according  to 
the  ad  of  the  Commiflioun  of  the  Kirk,  and  their  fufpenfion  to  be  pub- 
likly  intimat. 

Capitan  Whyt  is  found  to  be  prifoner  in  Ingland. 

Dilated  alfo,  by  the  Seflioun  of  Couper,  for  fubfcry ving  the  Proteftatioun 
entered  in  the  Committy  of  the  fhyre  againft  the  fupplicationes  of  the 
Prefbyteries  refpe&ive  within  the  fhyre  to  the  Parliament,  Sir  James 
Balfour,  Alexander  Inglis,  Gilbert  Paterfone,  Mr.  Patrick  Glaffurd. 

Sir  James  Balfour  called,  compeires,  and  confeffes  he  had  fubfcryved 
the  foirfaid  Proteftatioun,  and  declares  that  he  was  fory  he  had  done  fo  ; 
and  that  he  is  willing  to  teftify  his  difallowance  of  it,  and  to  declare  his 
repentance  for  it,  any  way  the  Prelbyterie  fhall  think  fitt,  and  earneftly 
defires  that  he  may  be  received  to  the  Covenant.  Wherupon  the  Pref- 
byterie,  finding  by  the  teftimony  of  feverall  brethren  that  he  had  not  bein 
malignant  or  difaffe&ionat  to  the  Covenant  and  caufe  of  God,  before  the 
vnlawfull  Engadgement ;  but,  on  the  contrair,  had  done  and  fuffered  for 
it,  ordeines,  that  he  fubfcryving  the  paper,  (the  tenor  quherof  followes : — 
"  Whcras  ane  Proteftatioun  was  entered  before  the  Committy  of  warre  of 
the  fhyre  of  Fyffe,  bearing  a  direct  oppofitioun  therwnto,  and  ane  urging 
of  the  advancement  of  the  vnlawfull  Engadgement,  whilk  Proteftatioun 
being  prefented  to  us  wnder  fubfcryvers,  we  did  fubfcry ve  it ;  for  whilk  we 
ar  heartily  fory,  and  doe  profefle  we  doe  think  that  Engadgement  to  be  vn 
lawfull,  and,  if  we  had  the  paper,  wold  willingly  rend  our  names  theirfrom  : 
whilk  we  declare  as  in  the  fight  of  God  by  our  fubfcriptiones  ;")  and  de 
claring  his  repentance  publikly  befor  the  congregation,  coming  out  of  his 
owne  feat,  and  promyfing  more  circumfpect  walking  (in  refped  of  the 
Covenant  in  all  tyme  comming)  fhalbe  admittit  to  the  renewing  of  the 
Covenant.  Wherupon  he  being  called,  and  the  faid  ordinance  intimat  to 
him,  he  willingly  fubmitts  to  it,  and  prefentlie  fubfcryves  the  foirfaid  paper 
in  face  of  the  Prefbyterie,  and  promyfes  to  obey  the  reft  of  the  order. 

The  magiftrats,  counfellors,  and  gentlemen,  in  the  paroche  of  Couper 
who  did  put  foorth  men  in  the  faid  vnlawfull  Engadgement,  being  called, 
compeirs,  and  declares  that  they  did  put  out  thofe  men  againft  their  will, 
being  threatned  with  plowndering  and  quartering ;  and  that  they  werre 


JAN.  1649.  OF  CUPAR.  129 

fory  they  had  done  fo,  and  willing  to  declare  the  fame  any  way  the  Pref- 
byterie  Ihould  think  fitt :  Wherwpon  the  Prelbyterie,  (knowing  the  good 
affe6tion  of  the  faid  magiftrats,  cownfellors,  and  gentlemen  to  the  Cove 
nant  and  caufe  of  God,  and  that  they  had  never  formerly  bein  found  in 
any  thing  to  be  malignant,)  ordeines,  that  they,  declaring  publikly  before 
the  congregation,  Handing  up  in  their  owne  featts,  and  inclyning  their 
body,  their  difallowance  of  the  faid  Engadgement,  and  that  they  werre 
fory  they  had  any  wayes  concurred  in  it,  ihalbe  received  into  the  Cove 
nant.  Whilk  being  intimat  to  them,  they  willingly  fubmitt  to  it,  and  pro- 
myfes  to  obey  the  faid  ordinance.1 

The  whilk  day,  Mr.  Walter  Greig  craves  advyce  of  the  brethren  anent 
a  woman  who  had  confeffed  hir  felfe  to  be  a  witch.  The  Prefbyterie,  not 
having  tyme  to  think  upon  that  mater,  delayes  it  till  the  nixt  day. 

December  31. — Mr.  John  Dury,  minifter  at  Logy,  delated  Johne  Hall  for 
refuiling  to  fwear  and  fubfcryve  the  Covenant,  who,  going  forth  in  the 
tyme  of  the  reiding  of  it,  is  therfor  apointed  to  be  fummond  againft  the 
nixt  day. 

It  is  apointed,  that  it  be  tryed  in  ewerie  paroche,  who  werre  abfent  at 
the  tyme  of  the  renewing  of  the  Covenant,  and  for  what  reafon  ;  and  that 
thefe  who  werre  neceflarly  abfent,  and  ar  defirous  to  fwear  the  fame, 
be  admittit  to  fweare  before  the  Seffioun,  and  that  others  be  fpecialy 
taken  notice  of. 

Concerning  Helen  Young,  in  the  paroche  of  Balmirrinoch,  who  had  coii- 
fefled  hir  felf  to  be  a  witch,  it  is  apointed,  that  Mrs.  Johne  Makgill  elder 
and  younger,  Andrew  Bennett,  James  Wedderburne,  George  Thomfon, 
fhall  meitt  with  Mr.  Walter  Greig  on  Monday  nixt,  and  fpeak  with  the 
faid  Helen  Young,  and  report  to  the  Prelbyterie  what  they  find  the  nixt 
day. 

January  4,  1649. — The  whilk  day,  diverfe  of  the  brethren  enquyring 
what  courfe  fhould  be  taken  with  thefe  who  refuifed  to  fweare,  or  having 
fworne,  did  delay  to  put  their  hands  to  the  Covenant.  The  Prefbyterie 
thinks  it  meet  to  deall  particularly  with  them,  and  defires  Mr.  Johne  Mak- 

1  A  great  many  other  gentlemen  and  common  people  were,  upon  this  occasion,  delated  by 
the  different  Sessions  of  similar  offences,  and  received  the  like  sentences. 

R 


130  THE  PRESBYTERY  JAN.  1649. 


younger,  to  repair  to  the  Commiflioun  of  the  Kirk  the  nixt  week,  and 
to  try  their  what  courfe  is  thought  ineitt  to  be  taken  with  thefe  who  re- 
fuife  to  fweare,  or  put  their  hand  to  the  Covenant. 

The  whilk  day,  the  brethren,  apointed  to  joyne  with  Mr.  Walter  Greig 
in  dealing  with  Helen  Young,  reports  that  ftill  (lie  confefiTes  hir  felfe  to 
be  a  witch  ;  but  that  when  (he  is  pofed  wpon  particulars  fhe  feems  to 
them  either  to  diflemble,  or  els  to  be  diftraded.  But  becaufe  fhe  fpak 
Ibmething  reflexing  wpon  Helen  Small  and  Elfpet  Seith,  the  brethren 
think  it  meitt  to  goe  on  in  the  examination  of  Helen  Small  and  Elfpet 
Seith  ;  and  in  the  mean  tyme  recommends  to  Mr.  Walter  Greig  to  deall 
with  Helen  Young,  to  try  what  can  be  had  againft  Helen  Small  and 
Elfpet  Seith,  in  their  Seflioun,  againft  the  nixt  day. 

Mr.  David  Orme  declares,  that  Helen  Small  was  fummond,  and  that  he 
had  found  in  their  Seflioun,  that  fhe  had  bein  for  a  long  tyme  malce  famce 
for  witchcraft  ;  and  that  fhe  had  bein  procefled  in  their  Seflioun  for  the 
fame  in  the  yeir  of  God  ImVIc  fowrtie-fowr  ;  and  that  fome  of  their  Seflioun 
had  now  deponed  againft  hir  as  followes  :  — 

At  Monimell,  the  last  of  December,  1648.  —  Whilk  day,  after  incalling  the  name  of  God,  the 
Minister  declared  to  the  Sessioun,  that  Helen  Young,  in  the  parishe  of  Balmirrinoch,  had 
spoken  something  reflexing  wpon  Helen  Small  about  maters  of  witchcraft,  and  that  he  was 
apointed  to  desyre  the  Sessioun  to  try  if  they  would  give  any  information  against  the  said 
Helen  Small. 

January  7,  1649.  —  The  whilk  day,  it  is  declared  that,  beside  the  scandal  concerning  Wil 
liam  Balingall  his  death,  for  which  the  said  Helen  was  procest,  she  was  of  a  long  tyme  malce 
fames  for  witchcraft.  Item,  it  is  alledged  against  hir,  that  she  sent  with  Alexander  Allan  in 
Lethern,  a  stoup  full  of  barme  to  Bessie  Swans  spous  Thomas  Mackassie,  to  be  given  him  to 
drink  whil  he  was  sicke,  after  which  the  said  Thomas  died.  Item,  that  Alexander  Arthur  in 
Kumoquhy  his  wyfe,  having  flittin  with  the  said  Helen,  fell  sicke,  and  afterward,  reproveing 
the  said  Helen,  his  kow  died,  and  immediatly  his  wyfe  recovered.  It  is  further  declared,  that 
on  a  day  Johne  Skirling  in  Caldcoats,  ryding  towards  Leathern,  and  meet  the  said  Helen,  who 
was  hard  say,  "Saw  yee  ever  such  a  long-legged  man  as  this?"  After  which  the  said  Johne 
fell  sicke  and  dwyned  about  whil  he  died.  The  Sessioun,  taking  these  delationes  to  their  con 
sideration,  ordeines  Helen  Small,  Bessie  Swan,  Alexander  Allan,  Margaret  Young,  Margaret 
Webster,  to  be  summond  against  the  nixt  day  for  tryell  of  the  preemisses. 

January  14.  —  Whilk  day,  Helen  Small  being  called,  compeired,  and  being  questioned  con 
cerning  the  barme,  did  confesse  that  she,  being  in  Jonet  Wats  house,  the  said  Jonet  requysted 


JAN.  1649.  OF  CUPAR. 

hir  to  cause  Margaret  Young  send  a  soup  barnie  te  hir  to  bake  with,  and  that  she  had  gotten 
the  same,  and  desyred  the  said  Alexander  Allan  to  cary  it  to  the  said  Jonet  Watt.  Being 
questioned  concerning  Alexander  Arthurs  kow,  and  his  wyffes  sicknesse,  denyed  she  knew 
any  thing  therof  but  by  report.  Lykewyse,  being  questioned  concerning  Johne  Skirlings  long 
legs,  denyed  the  same. 

Bessie  Swan  called,  compeired,  and  being  questioned  concerning  the  barme  which  Alex 
ander  Allan  broght  to  hir  from  Helen  Small,  declared  that  Alexander  Allan  broght  ane  stoup 
full  of  barme  to  hir,  which  the  said  Helen  Small  had  sent  hir,  whilk  she  did  cast  in  the  milne 
burne. 

Alexander  Allan  called,  compeired,  declared  that  the  said  Helen  Small  did  send  the  barme 
with  him  to  the  said  Bessie  Swan. 

Margaret  Young  declares,  that  Helen  Small  did  seike  barme  from  hir  to  be  sent  to  Jonet 
Watt  in  Monimell,  which  she  desyred  Alexander  Allan  to  Qake  to]  the  said  Jonet,  and  not 
to  Bessie  Swan  ;  and  being  posed,  if  Helen  Small  had  spoken  to  hir  concerning  the  barme  be 
fore  she  came  to  the  Sessioun  ?  answered,  she  had. 

Margaret  Wobster  in  Kinoquhy,  called,  compeired,  and  being  questioned,  if  after  she  had 
flitten  with  Helen  Small,  that  she  fell  sicke,  and  whither  or  not  the  said  Helen  being  reproved 
by  hir  housband,  Alexander  Arthur,  their  kow  died  and  she  amend  ?  Answered,  that  indeed 
after  hir  flytting  with  the  said  Helen  she  fell  sicke,  whilk  she  tooke  from  the  hand  of  God  ; 
and  that  she  knew  not  that  hir  housband  did  reprove  the  said  Helen,  and  that  their  kow  died 
when  she  was  sicke,  and  that  after  the  deathe  of  the  kow  she  amended,  whilk  she  acknow 
ledged  Ivkewyse  to  come  from  God.  And  being  questioned,  whither  she  hard  the  said  Helen 
say,  when  their  kow  was  dead,  "  I  thank  God  I  have  gotten  my  hearts  sythe  now  ?"  denyed 
that  she  heard  the  said  Helen  speake  the  same,  but  that  she  heard  others  clavering  the  same, 
wherof  she  took  no  notice. 

Agnes  Wobster  called,  compeired,  and  being  questioned,  whither  or  not  she  knew  any  thing 
concerning  Helen  Small  hir  speach  anent  hir  goodman  his  long  legges  ?  Answered,  she  knew 
nothing  of  it,  but  only  heard  a  flying  report,  and  that  hir  housband  was  long  sicke  and  after 
ward  died  ;  whilk  they  both  tookc  from  the  Lords  hand. 

This  day,  James  Webster  declared  that  the  said  Helen  Small  had  promysed  to  doe  him  ane 
evill  turne  ;  whilk  the  said  Helen  denyed,  being  posed  thairanent.  The  said  Helen  is  sum 
moned  apud  acta  to  compeir  the  nixt  day.  James  Wobster  is  apointed  to  prove  the  same, 
and  to  advertise  the  minister  that  the  witnesses  may  be  summond  (when  he  lies  gotten  their 
names)  against  the  nixt  day. 

January  21. — Whilk  day,  James  Wobster  being  questioned,  whither  or  not  he  had  found 
any  light  concerning  that  speach  of  Helen  Smalls  ?  Answered,  that  he  had  gotten  none  as  yit. 
The  Sessioun  apointed  the  said  James  to  use  further  diligence,  and  to  acquaint  the  minister. 

January  28. — The  whilk  day,  James  Wobster  declared  he  had  gotten  no  further  light  as 
yit.  The  Sessioun  ordeins  him  ut  supra. 

Extract  out  of  the  Sessioun  Book  of  Monimell. 


132  THE  PRESBYTERY  FEB.  1649. 

The  faid  Helen  Small  compeirs,  and  being  pofed  by  the  Moderator,  if 
fhe  knew  that  fhe  had  bein  a  long  tyme  bygone  fufpe&  and  flandered  for 
a  witch  ?  fhe,  after  fome  fhifting  anfweres,  confefled  that  fhe  did  know  it. 
Being  enquyred,  why  fhe  was  not  carefull  to  be  purged  of  that  flander  ? 
fhe  anfwered,  that  fhe  could  not  flope  their  mouthes,  and  God  would  re 
ward  them.  Being  enquyred  anent  the  particulars  alledged  againft  hir 
in  the  Seffioun  of  Monimell,  fhe  denyed  all.  Wherfor  it  is  recommended 
to  Mr.  David  Orme  to  examine  the  particulars  more  narrowly.  Con 
cerning  James  Birtlitt,  fhe  confeflTes  that  flie  being  fent  for,  went  to  him  ; 
but  that  it  was  to  gitt  a  band  of  100  merkis  which  he  had  of  hirs ;  which, 
notwithftanding,  flie  got  not.  She  denyes  that  flie  applyed  anything  at  all 
to  him.  It  is  recommended  to  the  Seffiouns  of  Balmirrinoch  and  Moni 
mell  to  try  more  particularly  concerning  hir  againft  the  nixt  day,  and  flie 
is  fummond  apud  a£ta  to  compeir  the  nixt  day. 

January  18. — Mr.  Walter  Greig  declares  to  the  Prefbyterie  the  death 
of  Helen  Young  by  ficknefie,  who  had  before  confefied  hir  felf  to  be  a 
witch.  Helen  Small  and  Elfpet  Seith  compeiring,  and  maters  concern 
ing  them  not  being  fufficiently  cleired  from  the  Seffiouns  of  Monemell 
and  Balmirrinoch,  they  ar  apointed  to  compeir  when  the  minifters  fhall 
advertife  them. 

February  1. — Mr.  Walter  Greig  returning  from  the  Commiffione  of 
the  Kirk,  delivered  a  lettre  to  the  Prefbyterie  from  the  faid  Commiffioun, 
dated  January  15,  the  tenor  wherof  followes  : — 

RIGHT  REVEREND, 

WHERAS  we  have  bein  informed  that  diverse  Presbyteries  have  bein  negligent,  and  too 
suddaine  in  the  admitting  to  the  renewing  of  the  League  and  Covenant  pei-sones  that  ar  dis 
affected,  and  to  whom  the  favour  granted  in  the  explanation  of  the  Act  of  Commission  doth 
not  belong,  and  the  many  applicationcs  ar  still  made  to  Presbyteries  by  Malignants,  and  men 
that  have  bein  dieply  involved  in  that  late  Engadgement,  to  be  readmitted  to  the  Covenant : 
Therfore,  we  have  thought  it  necessary  to  warne  yow  that  yee  be  very  circumspect,  and  tak 
good  heid  whom  yow  admitt  to  the  Covenant,  that  so  the  cause  of  God  suffer  no  prejudice  by 
your  joyneing  with  the  Enemies  therof.  And  for  this  cause  wee  desyre  that  the  tryall  of  such, 
according  to  the  rules  and  directiones  wee  have  formerly  given,  may  bee  by  your  selues,  and  no 
by  your  Sessiones ;  and  that  yow  cause  registrate  your  whole  proceidings  in  every  one  of  your 
Books.  And  wher  any  questionable  causes  come  before  yow  concerning  the  admitting  of  per- 


FEB.  1649.  OF  CUPAR.  133 

sones  to  the  Covenant,  yow  shall  referre  them  hither,  and  apoint  the  persones  who  importune 
yow  for  that  favour  to  mak  their  addresses  wnto  us.  And  wee  cannot  conceale  from  you,  if 
any  persone  or  persones  be  admittit  to  renew  the  Covenant  who  ar  not  allowat  by  our  Act 
and  explanation,  by  the  gryt  trust  committed  wnto  us,  we  wilbe  necessitated  to  proceid  against 
such,  and  to  take  notice  of  the  Presbyteries  proceidings  in  applying  the  Act  apointed  by  us  to 
regulate  the  admitting  of  persones  in  the  renewing  of  the  Covenant.  Yow  ar  lykewyse  heirby 
desyred  to  hasten  in  that  report  of  your  diligence,  with  the  list  of  the  persones  debarred  from 
the  Covenant  within  the  severall  churches  in  yowr  bounds.  And,  so  committing  yow  to  the 
Lords  speciall  directione,  wee  remaine. 

Which  the  Prefbyterie,  taken  to  their  confideration,  refolved  carefully 
to  obey.  Alfo  they  received  ane  other  lettre  of  the  fame  daitt,  the  tenor 
whereof  followes : — 

* 

RIGHT  REVEREND, 

Yow  shall  receive  three  copies  of  the  new  paraphrase  of  the  Psalms,  at  a  mark  the 
peice,  which  yow  wilbe  pleased  to  peruse  carefuly  ;  and  that  yow  would  amend  any  fault  yow 
find  in  them,  and  send  in  yowr  correctiones  to  ws  with  diligence  ;  for  tis  not  eneugh  to  find 
out  faults,  except  yow  also  set  down  your  own  assay  correcting  the  same.  Receive  also  heir- 
with  nyntein  Acts  of  the  Assembly  at  a  mark  the  peice.  There  ar  sent  wnto  Eyow]  the  Ex- 
planationes  of  our  former  Act,  concerning  our  debarring  of  persones  from  the  Covenant,  price 
of  the  peice  of  them  is  six  pennies.  We  must  entreat  yow  to  send  in  the  prices  of  these 
papers  yow  have  gotten  now  and  formerly  with  all  diligence,  that  the  printer  may  be  payed. 
Receive  also  nyntein  copies  of  the  Testimonie  of  this  Church  against  the  proceidings  of  the 
Sectaries,  etc.  price  of  peece  2s.  As  also,  that  yee  will  not  faile  to  send  in  what  is  due  of  the 
twentie  shillings  for  this  and  bygon  yeeres.  We  expect  yowr  diligence  heirin,  and  the  report 
therof ;  and  so  we  remaine. 

In  obedience  wherto  they  did  delyver  one  of  the-copies  of  the  paraphrafe 
of  the  Pfalmes  to  Mr.  David  Dalgleifhe,  another  to  Mr.  David  Orme,  and 
the  thrid  to  Mr.  Walter  Greig,  apointing  them  to  perufe  the  fame,  and 
having  perilled  the  fame,  to  delyver  them  to  other  brethren  to  be  perufed 
lykwyfe  by  them,  that  the  report  may  be  given  in  according  to  the  defyre 
of  the  Aflembly.1 

Another  letter  alfo  was  delyvered  to  the  Prefbyterie  by  Mr.  Walter 
Greig  ;  the  tenor  wherof  followes  : — 

1  This  was  the  version  by  Francis  Rous,  which  was  afterwards  sanctioned  by  the  General 
Assembly,  and  is  still  used  in  the  Scottish  Church. 


134  THE  PRESBYTERY  FEB.  1649. 

RRVBRBND  BRETHREN, 

ALBEIT,  we  have  long  expected  from  yow  ane  accompt  of  yowr  diligence  concerning  the 
provision  and  other  particulars  relating  vnto  the  severall  Kirks  within  yowr  bounds,  according 
to  the  Act  of  the  Generall  Assembly  in  the  year  1647,  yet  we  have  hitherto  receaved  no  sa 
tisfaction  from  yow  heirin.  And  conceiwing  yowr  negligence  in  this  to  have  bein  very  preju- 
diciall  to  the  selling  of  yowr  severall  Kirks,  and  that  a  perfect  accompt  of  these  things  would 
contribute  very  much  for  furthering  of  the  same,  therfore,  we  doe  now  desyre  yow,  as  yee 
would  not  wish  the  blame  to  ly  vpon  yow  any  longer,  to  tak  pains  for  setting  down  the  names 
of  all  the  paroches  within  yowr  bounds,  with  declaration  which  of  them  have  ministers,  which 
not ;  what  is  the  largenesse  of  the  bownds ;  commodious  or  incommodious  situation  of  each 
particular  paroche  kirk ;  what  is  the  number  of  communicants  ;  what  kirks  ar  wnder  patrons, 
what  not ;  who  ar  the  severall  patrons ;  what  is  the  nature  and  quantity  of  the  present  provi 
sion,  or  possible  grownd  of  further  provision,  or  competent  mantenance,  where  the  same  is  not 
sufficiently  provyded  already.  As  also  what  paroches  ar  vnited,  or  disvnited,  or  bettered  al 
ready  ;  and  in  what  measure  by  the  said  Commissioun.  And  that  this  may  not  be  delayed  or 
slichted,  we  trust  that  yow  will  immediatly  after  the  sight  heirof,  to  name  one  of  yowr  num 
ber  to  tak  paines  heirin,  and  that  yow  wilbe  carefull  to  give  vnto  him  yowr  best  concurrence 
and  assistance  for  cleiring  of  these  particulars  to  yowr  severall  kirks.  Wee  will  expect  a  per 
fect  accompt  of  all  these  things  against  the  nixt  meiting  of  the  Commissioun  on  February,  or 
as  soon  therafter  as  possibly  can  be.  Wee  think  we  shall  neid  to  say  no  more  in  a  bussinesse 
tending  so  much  to  yowr  owne  advantage,  and  to  the  good  andsetling  of  all  the  kirks  within 
the  kingdome,  but  commends  yow  to  the  grace  of  God,  and  continowes. 

Wee  pray  yow  be  carefull  that  none  of  the  particulars  in  the  Act  of  Assembly,  and  sit  down 
in  our  lettre,  be  omitted  concerning  any  of  yowr  Kirks.  It  is  very  lyke  that  these  who  shall 
first  report  their  diligence  in  these  particulars  shalbe  first  taken  in  consideration  by  the  Com 
missioun  of  Plantation  of  Kirks. 

In  obedience  wherto,  Mr.  Andrew  Bennett  was  apointed  to  receive 
from  ewerie  brother  ane  information  anent  the  date  and  condition  of  their 
ftipend  and  paroche,  according  to  the  defyre  of  the  lettre  ;  which  ewerie 
brother  was  apointed  to  bring  in  to  him  againft  the  nixt  day,  that  he 
might  prepare  the  fame  with  all  expedition  to  be  fent  over  to  the  Com- 
miflioun  of  the  Kirk. 

This  day,  Mr.  David  Orme  produceth  the  procefle  of  the  Seffioun  of 
Monemell  againil  Helen  Small,  fufped  of  witchcraft ;  which,  becaufe  it  is 
found  yet  not  to  be  cleired  in  ewerie  particular,  it  is  referred  back  againe 
to  the  faid  Seffioun  for  further  cleiring.  And  Helen  Small  called,  com- 


FEB.  1649.  OF  CUPAR.  135 

peirs,  and  is  apointed  to  come  to  the  Prefbyterie  when  Mr.  David  Orme 
fliowld  advertife  hir. 

February  J  5. — Mr.  Walter  Greig  craving  advyce,  what  punifhment  is 
to  be  inflided  wpon  a  woman  who  had  fatt  down  wpon  hir  knees  and 
curfed  hir  neighbour  ?  It  is  thoght  meit,  that  Ihe  fhall  declare  hir  repent 
ance  publikly  before  the  Congregation. 

Mr.  Andrew  Lawthian,  produceing  to  the  Prefbyterie  his  abfolvitor 
before  the  Commiflars  of  Edenburgh,  concerning  his  alledged  oath  of  mar 
riage  to  Elfpet  Shaw,  and  he  being  defyrous  to  give  fatiffadion  in  the 
paroche  of  Falkland,  in  refped  of  any  fcandal  given  by  him  during  the 
tyme  of  his  abode  their,  that  he  might  have  a  teftimoniall  from  thence  to 
any  paroche  wher  it  fhall  pleafe  the  Lord  to  give  him  occafion  to  refide  : 
The  Prefbyterie  ordeines  the  faid  Mr.  Andrew  Lawthian  to  compeir  be- 
for  the  pulpit  of  the  kirk  of  Falkland,  vpon  ane  Saboth  before  noon,  and 
ther  declare  his  forrow  and  greif  for  all  his  offences  during  his  abode  in 
Falkland,  and  efpecially  for  his  levity  in  contrading  and  quyting  againe 
mariage  with  hir  with  whom  he  had  fallin  in  fornication ;  and  alfo,  that 
throgh  any  wncircumfpednefle  of  his  walking,  any  of  that  congregation 
fhould  have  taken  any  offence  at  him,  as  if  he  had  bein  given  to  exceffive 
or  wntymous  drinking ;  which  he  hath  the  more  reafon  to  be  greived  for, 
becaufe  having  the  honor  to  preach  Gods  word,  amongft  whom  he  (liould 
have  bein  exemplar  for  a  holy  converfation,  and  crave  God  and  that  con 
gregation  forgiveneffe,  and  promyfe,  with  the  Lords  grace,  to  walk  more 
circumfpedly  in  all  tyme  comming. 

February  26. — The  whilk  day,  after  incalling  the  name  of  God,  ewerie 
feverall  brother  being  requyred,  according  to  the  lettre  received  from  the 
Commiffion  of  the  Kirk,  to  give  in  in  writt  the  eftate  of  the  paroche  and 
ftipend,  the  fame  was  given  in  by  ewerie  brother,  except  be  Mr.  Johne 
Ramfay,  who  had  not  bein  prefent  feverall  dayes  before,  becaufe  of  fick- 
nefle,  and  therfor  knew  not  that  it  fliould  have  bein  given  in  that  day ; 
and  Mrs.  Johne  Murray  and  Johne  Litlejohne,  who  werre  abfent. 

The  whilk  day,  Sir  George  Morrifon  being  called,  compeirs,  and  being 
enquyred  anent  his  judgement  of  the  late  vnlawfull  Engadgement,  he  de- 
fyred  to  apoint  fome  two  of  their  number  to  conferre  with  him  for  his 


136  THE  PRESBYTERY  MARCH  1649. 

fatiffa&ion  in  fomethings  wherof  he  doubted  ;  wherupon  the  Prefbyterie 
apointed  Mr.  Walter  Greig  and  Mr.  George  Thomfone  to  fpeak  with  him, 
and  delayed  his  procefle  till  the  nixt  day. 

Capitan  Johne  Morifon,  in  the  paroche  of  Darfy,  compeirs,  and  acknow 
ledges,  that  he  had  a  patent  from  the  Eirle  of  Lenrick  to  levie  men  in  the 
Weft  cowntry  for  the  laid  vnlawfull  Engadgement,  and  that  he  was  inter 
rupted  by  ryfing  of  the  Weft  cowntry  after  the  mifcariage  of  the  faid  En 
gadgement  :  The  Prefbyterie  ordeines  him  to  be  debarred  from  the  Cove 
nant  and  communion  till  the  nixt  Generall  AfTembly. 

March  8. — Concerning  the  reference  for  plantation  of  Schools,  it  is 
apointed,  that  the  nixt  day  ewery  brother  reprefent  to  the  Prefbyterie  the 
cace  of  their  paroche  in  refpeft  of  a  School,  that  theirafter  diligence  may 
be  ufed  for  planting  fchools  wher  they  ar  wanting. 

It  is  recommended  to  feverall  brethren  to  be  carefull  to  intimat  in  their 
feverall  kirks,  wpon  the  Saboths  immediatly  before  Midfommer  and 
Hallowewen,  that  no  fyres  to  be  fit  on  wpon  thefe  nights. 

It  is  yet  referred  to  the  enfewing  Provinciall,  what  courfe  fhal  be  taken 
with  women  procefled  for  witchcraft,  and  not  cleired. 

Elfpit  Seith,  in  the  paroche  of  Balmirrinoch,  compeiring,  is  examined 
by  the  Prefbyterie,  and  fummond  apud  a£ta  to  compeir  the  nixt  day. 

March  15. — The  whilk  day,  Andrew  Patrik  compeiring,  and  being  ex 
amined,  declared,  that  in  the  laft  goefommer l  fave  one,  as  he  was  com- 
ming  furth  of  the  Galrey  to  goe  to  his  owne  houfe,  betuixt  11  and  12 
houres  at  ewen,  as  he  was  in  the  weft  fyde  of  Henry  Blak  his  land,  he  faw 
7  or  8  women  dancing,  with  a  mekle  man  in  the  midft  of  them,  who  did 
weare2  towards  him,  whil  they  came  to  a  litle  loch,  in  the  which  they  werre 
putting  him,  fo  that  his  armes  werre  wett  to  the  fhowlder  blaids ;  and 
that  he  knew  none  of  them  except  Elfpet  Seith,  whom  (as  he  affirmes)  he 
knew  by  hir  tongue,  for  he  hard  hir  fay  to  the  reft,  "  He  is  but  a  filly 
druken  larde ;  let  him  goe."  Being  enquyred,  what  he  was  doing  that 
way  fo  late  ?  Anfwered,  that  he  had  bein  in  Johne  Rikie  his  houfe,  tail- 
zeor  in  the  Galrey,  fcheaping  clothes ;  and  that  he  had  fent  for  a  quart 

1  The  beginning  of  Autumn.  2  Gradually  approach. 


MARCH  1649.  OF  CUPAR.  137 

aill,  and  ftaying  whil  it  was  druken,  it  was  late.  Being  enquyred,  whither 
he  went  after  that  fear?  Anfwered,  he  went  to  his  oune  houfe,  and 
that  he  cryed  fo  before  he  came  neir  his  houfe,  that  they  who  werre  in 
his  houfe  opened  the  doore,  and  came  furth  and  mett  him  ;  and  that  he 
went  in  to  his  owne  houfe  with  gryt  fear  all  wett.  He  being  queftioned, 
why  he  did  not  reveile  the  foirfaid  mater  prefently  theirafter  ?  Anfwered, 
that  wpon  the  morne  he  told  it  to  Alexander  Kirkaldy. 

Andrew  Patrik  and  (he  being  confronted  before  the  Prefbyterie,  he 
affirmes,  fhe  denyes. 

Helen  Swyn,  in  the  paroche  of  Forgen,  compeirs  and  complains,  that 
Andrew  Patrik  had  raifed  a  fclander  wpon  hir  as  being  amongft  thefe 
women  whom  he  had  fein.  Andrew  Patrik  denyes  that  ewer  he  had  fpoken 
of  hir.  Mr.  George  Thomfone  declares,  that  wheras  the  faid  Helen 
Swyn  had  complained  in  their  Seffion  of  Kilmany,  that  Thomas  Kynneir, 
in  the  faid  paroche,  had  flandered  hir  as  being  in  that  number,  the  Sef- 
fioun  had  called  Thomas  Kynneir  before  them ;  who  affirmed,  that  he 
heard  Andrew  Patrik  fay,  that  he  knew  not  only  Elfpit  Seith,  but  alfo 
Ifobel  Troylus  and  Helen  Swyn,  amongft  thofe  women  whom  he  faw 
dancing ;  and  that  David  Arthur,  Johne  Grahame,  and  Andrew  Patrik 
his  fonne,  was  prefent  and  heard  the  famyn.  The  Prefbyterie,  confider- 
ing  all  the  premiffes,  apoints  a  meiting  wpon  Monday  the  26  of  this  in- 
ftant,  for  trying  the  foirfaid  mater ;  and  fummonds  Andrew  Patrik  and 
Elfpet  Seith  apud  a£ta  to  compeir  the  faid  day ;  and  apoints  Mr.  Walter 
Greig  to  caufe  fummond  thefe  that  werre  in  Andrew  Patrik  his  houfe 
that  night  he  came  hame  wett  and  feared,  (as  he  alledges.)  Alfo,  to 
caufe  fummond  Alexander  Kirkaldy,  to  whom  he  alledges  he  told  it  wpon 
the  morrow.  As  alfo,  to  caufe  fummond  Jonet  Bell  to  be  tryed  in  a 
mater  of  {lander  concerning  Elfpet  Seith.  Alfo,  the  Moderator  is  apointed 
to  writt  to  Mr.  Alexander  Wedderburne,  to  caufe  fummond  Johne  Rikie 
and  his  wyfe,  in  the  paroche  of  Forgen,  againft  the  faid  day ;  alfo,  to 
caufe  fummond  Thomas  Kynneir,  David  Arthur,  Johne  Grahame,  and 
Andrew  Patrik  younger,  in  the  paroche  of  Kilmany,  againft  the  faid 
day,  to  be  tryed  in  the  foirfaid  particular. 

The  brethren  being  enquyred  to  give  in  their  diligence  concerning  the 

s 


138  THE  PRESBYTERY  MARCH  1649. 

eftate  of  their  Schools  in  their  feverall  paroches ;  it  was  found,  that  the 
only  way  to  gett  Schols  fully  ietled,  was  to  vifite  the  feverall  congrega- 
tiones  for  this  effed,  which  the  brethren  refolve  and  intend  to  doe  with 
the  firft  conveniencie  after  the  firfl  Provinciall. 

Martij  26. — Andrew  Patrik  called,  compeiring,  being  enquyred,  if  he 
could  remember  the  preceife  tyme  at  which  he  had  fein  thefe  women,  as 
he  had  before  alledged  ?  Anfwered,  that  it  was  the  laft  yeir  fave  one,  in 
the  goefommer  betuixt  Michelmes  and  Mertimes,  about  what  day  of 
the  week,  or  in  what  week  of  thefe,  he  did  not  particularlie  remember. 
All  thinges  he  anfwered  precifely  as  he  done  before,  only  he  added,  that 
after  he  came  out  of  Johne  Reikie  his  houfe,  he  flayed  an  houre  in  his 
fonnes  houfe. 

Johne  Rikie  called,  compeirs,  and  his  oath  being  taken,  he  was  en 
quyred,  if  he  did  remember  that  Andrew  Patrik  was  at  any  tyme  late  in 
his  houfe  ?  He  anfwered,  that  the  laft  yeir  fave  one,  when  he  came  home 
from  his  work,  he  fand  Andrew  Patrik  waiting  wpon  him  in  bis  fonnes 
houfe,  and  that  after  he  came  home  he  came  into  his  houfe,  with  cloath  to 
be  a  pare  of  breches  to  Johne  Drybro  his  fervant  and  fitter  fonne  ;  and  that 
Andrew  Patrik  fent  for  a  quart  aill  in  his  houfe,  and  flayed  their  with  his 
fone  fheaping  the  breeks  and  drinking  the  quart  aill  whil  about  9  or  ten 
houres. 

Johne  Rikie  his  wyfe,  called,  compeirs,  and  hir  oath  being  taken,  file 
is  enquyred  anent  the  foirfaid  mater ;  whofe  depofition  did  in  all  points 
agrie  with  the  former. 

Andrew  Patrik  younger  called,  compeirs,  and  being  enquyred,  his  de 
pofition  did  in  all  points  agrie  with  the  former. 

Margaret  Patrik  being  called,  compeirs,  and  being  enquyred,  if  ewer 
fhe  remembred  that  hir  father  came  home  to  his  owne  houfe  in  the  night 
in  gryt  fear  and  all  wett  ?  Anfwered,  that  the  laft  yeir  fave  on  in  the 
goefomer,  he  came  in  the  night  to  his  owne  door  crying,  and  that  fhe 
being  afrayd,  rofe,  opened  the  door,  and  that  he  came  in  grytly  afrayd, 
and  all  wett.  Being  enquyred,  if  he  told  hir  what  it  was  that  feared  him  ? 
She  anfwered,  that  he  told  hir  not. 

Alexander  Kirkaldy  being  called,  Mr.  Walter  Greig  declared,  that  he 


APRIL  1649.  OF  CUPAR.  139 

had  forgotten  that  he  was  apointed  to  be  fummond,  and  therefor  he  was 
not  fummond ;  bot  both  he  and  George  Stirk  affirmed,  that  Alexander 
Kirkaldy  had  faid  in  their  Seffioun,  that  Andrew  Patrik  had  told  him 
that  he  had  gotten  a  gryt  fear  by  feing  women  in  the  night,  and  that 
about  Mertimes  laft  fave  one,  and  withal  he  faid,  he  thoght  not  mekle 
of  it  at  the  tyme. 

Andrew  Patrik  called  againe,  and  enquyred,  if  he  knew  any  other 
amongft  thefe  women  but  Elfpet  Seith  ?  He  affirmed,  that  he  knew  none 
other  of  them.  Being  enquyred,  if  he  had  fpoken  of  Ifobel  Troylus  and 
Helen  Swyn  ?  He  denyed  that  ewer  he  had  fpoken  of  them. 

Thomas  Kynneir,  in  the  paroche  of  Kilmany,  called,  compeirs  not.  His 
minifter,  Mr.  George  Thomfone,  declares,  that  he  came  to  him  on  Saturday 
after  he  was  fummond,  and  declaired  to  him  that  he  was  fummond  to 
San&andros  againft  Monday  for  the  fowme  of  fyve  hundreth  merkis, 
wnder  the  paine  of  horning ;  and  that  compeiring  before  the  Seffioun  on 
Sonday,  he  deponed,  that  he  heard  Andrew  Patrik  fay,  in  James  Stein 
his  houfe  in  Kilmany,  before  David  Arthure,  Johne  Grahame,  and  An 
drew  Patrik  younger,  that  he  faw  eight  or  nyne  women  in  the  night,  who 
put  him  in  the  water  to  the  Ihowldere  blaeds,  and  that  he  knew  three  of 
them,  Ifobel  Troylus,  Elfpet  Seith,  and  Helen  Swyn. 

David  Arthur  called,  compeirs  not.  His  minifter  declares  that  he  had 
come  to  him,  and  Ipoken  to  him,  that  he  might  not  travell  for  a  fore  fyde. 

Johne  Grahame  called,  compeirs,  and  being  examined,  declared,  that  he 
heard  not  Andrew  Patrik  fpeake  of  Ifobell  Troylus  nor  Helen  Swyn. 

The  whole  mater  is  referred  till  the  firft  meiting  after  the  Provincial!, 
and  all  perfones  having  intereft  ar  ordeined  to  be  fummond  to  be  their. 

Aprill  J2. — Anent  the  mater  of  Elfpet  Seith,  fufpe&  of  witchcraft,  the 
Prefbyterie  refolves  to  adwyfe  with  the  Juilice  Deput,  Mr.  Alexander  Col- 
ven,  if  what  has  bein  found  againft  hir  be  fufficient  grownd  to  recommend 
hir  to  the  civill  judge  to  be  incarcerat  for  tryall;  and,  for  that  effe6t,  ordained 
the  clerk  to  extra6t  hir  proceffe  out  of  the  Prelbyterie  book,  and  to  dely- 
ver  it,  together  with  the  proceffe  of  the  Seffioun  of  Balmirrinoch,  to  the 
firft  of  their  number  that  goes  to  the  Commiffioun  of  the  Generall  Affem- 
bly,  wher  they  may  have  occafion  of  adwyfing  with  the  Juftice  Deput, 


140  THE  PRESBYTERY  APRIL  1649. 

Mr.  George  Thomfon  is  ordeined  to  caufe  fummond  Thomas  Kynneir  and 
tin-  reft  of  the  paroche,  anent  the  fclander  of  witchcraft  wented,  as  was 
alledged,  by  Andrew  Patrik  againft  Helen  Swyn. 

AprylI9. — Anent  the  foirfaid  fclander  of  witchcraft  raifed  upon  Helen 
Swyn  by  Andrew  Patrik,  as  is  alledged,  the  foirfaid  Andrew  not  being 
fummoned  to  this  day,  Mr  Walter  Greig  is  ordeined  to  caufe  fummond 
him  againft  the  nixt  day. 

Apryl  26. — Thomas  Kynneir,  being  called  and  queftioned  anent  the 
fcandale  of  witchcraft  raifed  againft  Helen  Swyn,  declared,  that  Andrew 
Patrik  elder  had  faid  fo  to  him  before  thir  witnefTes,  David  Arthure, 
Jean  Kinloch,  Andrew  Patrik  younger,  and  Marjory  Stein.  Being  quef 
tioned,  whither  it  was  Andrew  Patrik  elder  or  younger  that  had  faid 
fo  ?  Anfwered,  that  he  was  fure  Andrew  Patrik  elder  did  affirme  to  him 
that  he  law  Elfpet  Seith  and  Ifobell  Troylus,  and  that  Helen  Swyn  was 
fpoken  off  alfo,  but  whither  by  Andrew  Patrik  elder  or  younger  he  dothe 
not  weill  remember. 

Andrew  Patrik  elder,  being  called  and  queftioned  anent  the  foirfaid 
mater,  denyed  that  he  knew  any  of  thefe  women  whom  he  faw  except 
Elfpet^  Seith ;  and  denyed  alfo  that  ewer  he  fpake  of  any  other  to  Thomas 
Kynneir,  or  any  body  elfe.  The  faid  Andrew  being  queftioned,  if  he  had 
any  thing  to  except  againft  any  of  the  witncffes  ?  anfwered  that  he  had 
nothing. 

David  Arthur  compeired,  and  being  queftioned  wpon  oath,  deponed, 
that  he  heard  young  Andrew  Patrik  fay  to  Thomas  Kynneir,  in  his 
fathers  heiring,  that  old  Andrew,  his  father,  faid,  that  Helen  Swyn  was 
amongft  thefe  women  ;  and  that  in  the  meane  tyme,  his  father  fpak  noth 
ing  againft  it.  Being  queftioned,  whither  he  heard  Andrew  Patrik  fpeak 
of  Ifobel  Troylus,  or  not  ?  Deponed,  that  he  faw  old  Andrew  rownding1 
to  Thomas  Kynneir,  and  immediatly  the  faid  Thomas  fpoke  out,  faying, 
"  I  (hall  ridle  what  he  hath  rounded  ;"  which  was,  that  Ifobel  Troylus 
was  amongft  them.  Wherunto  the  faid  Andrew  replyed,  faying,  "  The 
thing  that  I  have  faid  is  truthe."  Being  queftioned,  if  he  heard  of  any 
other  woman  ?  Deponed,  that  he  heard  of  none  other,  fave  of  Elfpet  Seith. 

1  Whispering. 


MAY  1649.  OF  CUPAR.  141 

Andrew  Patrik  younger,  being  called,  riot  compeiring,  Mr.  George 
Tliomfone  is  ordeined  to  caufe  furamond  him  againft  the  nixt  day,  together 
with  Marjory  Stein,  and  Jean  Kinloch  as  witneffes  in  the  faid  mater. 

Maij  3. — Andrew  Patrik  younger  called,  compeirs :  being  folemnly 
attefted,  declares,  that  he  nevere  fpake,  nor  heard  his  father  fpeake,  that 
he  knew  any  of  thefe  women,  except  Elfpet  Seith,  and  that  his  father  was 
drunk  at  [the]  tyme  when  it  was  alledged  he  fpake  thefe  thinges.  The 
Preflbyterie  ordaines  Mr.  George  Thomfon  to  confront  the  faid  Andrew 
with  David  Arthur  before  the  Seffioun  of  Kilmany  anent  the  foirlaid 
Ipeaches,  and  to  report. 

Jean  Kinloch  and  Marjory  Stein  being  called,  and  not  compeiring,  Mr. 
George  Thomfon  declared,  that  they  came  to  him,  and  faid  they  knew 
nothing  in  the  faid  mater.  He  is  ordeined  to  examine  them  before  their 
Seffioun,  and  to  report  the  nixt  day. 

May  ]  0. — This  day,  Sir  James  Scott  of  Tarvett  compeired,  and  being 
afked,  if  he  had  fubfcryved  the  Proteftation  (or  band  of  adherence  theirto) 
againft  the  Supplication  of  the  fhyre  to  the  Parliament  againft  the  late 
wnlawfull  Engadgement  ?  who  anfwered,  that  he  was  ficke  in  the  tyme  of 
the  Proteftation,  and  that  he  never  faw  it,  nor  fubfcryved  it,  nor  the 
Band  of  Adherence  theirto :  And  withall  confefled,  that  he  had  fitten  in 
the  committy,  and  given  out  orders  for  the  promoving  of  the  faid  wnlaw 
full  Engadgement ;  which  he  acknowledged  to  be  a  gryt  fault,  and  pro- 
feffed  his  unfained  forrow  for  the  fame ;  affirming  alfo,  that  he  never 
lyked  the  Engadgement,  nor  yet  was  violent  in  the  advancement  of  it ; 
but  only  what  he  did  was  in  obedience  to  the  law.  The  Prefbyterie,  tak 
ing  his  declaration  to  their  confideration,  werre  feverally  enquyred,  both 
minifters  and  elders  prefent,  if  they  knew  any  thing  contrare  theirto,  and 
finding  nothing,  ordeined  him  to  be  admittit  to  the  fwearing  and  fubfcry- 
ving  of  the  Covenant  in  the  Seffioun  of  Sires  the  nixt  Lords  day. 

May  1 7- — The  whilk  day,  Mr.  William  Levingftone  reported  the  diligence 
of  the  Seffioun  of  Falkland,  extra6b  out  of  their  book  as  followes  : 

May  16,  1649.  The  Sessioun  of  Falkland  being  conveined  for  giving  answere  to  the 
questiones  ordeined  be  the  Presbyterie  to  be  enquyred,  touching  the  scandalous  report  raised  in 
the  paroche  of  Falkland,  did  answere  as  followes  :  To  the  first,  namely,  Of  whom  it  is  ?  It 


142  THE  PRESBYTERY  MAY  1649. 

is  answered,  that  it  is  of  Sir  Mungo  Murray  and  my  Lady  Abercomby.  To  the  2d,  What  it 
is  ?  It  is  answered,  that  in  particular  they  canuot  condiscend  wpon  it,  except  in  this  fair, 
that  their  was,  as  is  reported,  some  behaviour  betuixt  them,  which  gave  such  offence  to  hir 
howsband,  as  he  went  away  in  gryt  rage,  and  left  hir  behind  him  :  what  lies  bein  the  behaviour 
in  particular,  must  be  best  knowne  to  my  Lord  Abercromby,  who  took  the  offence.  As  to  the 
tliriil.  How  it  was  raised  ?  It  is  answered,  that  the  said  Lord  Abercromby  his  going  away  in 
such  a  rage,  and  leaving  his  Lady  behind  him,  and,  as  it  is  reported,  his  owne  expressiones  of 
greif  and  anger  within  the  Palace,  occasioned  the  raising  of  this  report. 

Extract  out  of  the  Sessioun  Book  of  Falkland,  and  subscryved  by  Mr.  ROBERT  ABNOT,  Clerk. 

The  Prelbyterie  taking  the  fame  to  their  confideration,  they  ordeine 
the  Sefiioun  of  Falkland  to  enquyre  particularly  to  what  finne  that  beha 
viour  tended  betuixt  Sir  Mungo  Murray  and  my  Lady  Abercromby,  which 
is  reported  to  have  given  offence  to  hir  howfband  ;  and  what  werre  thefe 
exprefiiones  of  greif  and  anger  wttered  by  him  in  the  Palace,  which  ar 
faid  to  have  occafioned  the  railing  of  the  foirfaid  fcandalous  report. 

This  day,  Mr.  George  Thomefone  gave  in  the  diligence  of  the  Sefiioun 
of  Kilmany,  as  followes  : 

Maij  6,  1 649.  The  whilk  day,  the  Sessioun,  according  to  the  Presbyteries  apointment,  did 
call  before  them  David  Arthur,  and  Andrew  Patrik  younger,  and  conveined  them  in  the  face 
of  the  Sessioun.  David  Arthur  did  stand  close  to  that  which  he  had  said  before  the  Presby- 
terie,  without  any  alteration.  Andrew  Patrik  first  denyed  that  his  father  had  spoken  any 
thing  of  any  other  women  then  Elspet  Seith  ;  theirafter,  he  said  that  he  knew  not  whither 
he  spake  of  any  other  or  not.  At  last,  he  affirmed  that  he  speired  at  his  father,  if  Helen  Swyn 
was  among  them  ?  and  that  his  father  answered  that  she  was  ;  but  that  presently  he  turned  his 
tongue  againe,  and  denyed  it.  He  affirmed,  also,  that  his  father  and  he,  and  all  the  company, 
were  in  drink. 

Jean  Kinloch  called,  compeires,  and  being  examined,  did  declare  that  she  heard  nothing  of 
their  discourse,  she  being  but  commiug  and  going  to  them,  save  that  she  heard  Andrew  Patrik 
elder  say,  that  he  had  bein  drowned  had  not  Elspet  Seith  saved  him. 

Marjory  Stein  called,  compeirs  not.  Jean  Kinloch  declared,  that  the  reason  of  hir  not  com- 
peiring  was,  that  she  was  gone  to  visite  hir  sister,  who  was  sicke,  and  send  for  to  hir. 

The  Prelbyterie  ordeines  Mr.  George  Thomefon  to  caufe  fummoml 
Thomas  Kynneir  to  compeir  before  the  Prefbyterie  the  nixt  day,  either 
to  give  up  witnefies  for  probation  of  his  alleadgeance  of  witchcraft  againil 
Helen  Swyn,  or  els  to  be  difcerned  icandaler ;  and  apoints  the  Seflioun 
of  Kilmany  to  tak  ordor  with  their  drukennefie. 

This  day,  Mr.  David  Dalgleifhe  declared,  that  Marjory  Winder  had 


JUNE  1649.  OF  CUPAR.  143 

yefterday  made  a  voluntar  confeffioun  of  witchcraft,  which  this  day  fhe 
had  denyed.  The  Prefbyterie  recommends  the  faid  mater  to  the  care  of 
the  Seffioun  of  Couper,  and  in  the  meane  tyme  apoints  Mr.  James  Wed- 
derburne  and  Mr.  Walter  Greig  to  joyne  with  Mr.  David  Dalgleifhe  to 
conferr  with  hir  after  the  Prefbyterie. 

Maij  31. — Mr.  David  Reatt  defyred  the  advyfe  anent  the  cenfure  of 
fome  in  his  paroche,  who  werre  plewing  on  the  day  of  thankfgiving.  The 
Prefbyterie  ordeines  them  to  be  fharply  rebuiked  before  the  Seffioun  ; 
and  that  minifters  heirafter  fhall  publickly  difcharge,  from  the  pulpit,  the 
lyke  heirafter  at  folemne  falls  or  thankfgiving,  wilder  the  paine  of  eccle- 
fiaftick  cenfure,  that  none  pretend  ignorance. 

Mr.  William  Livingftoun  reported  the  diligence  of  the  Seffioun  of 
Falkland,  in  anfwere  to  the  Prefbyteries  queries.  To  the  firft,  That  the 
fcandalous  behaviour  betuixt  SirMungo  Murray  and  my  Lady  Abercromby, 
as  is  reported,  did  tend  to  the  finne  of  adultery.  And  to  the  fecond, 
That  my  Lord  Abercromby  his  expreffiones  of  greif  and  anger,  which  oc- 
cafioned  the  railing  of  the  faid  report,  can  not  be  otherwyfe  knowne  then 
by  examination  of  my  Lord  Annandail  his  family,  which  they  referre  to 
the  Prefbyterie. 

Mr.  James  Wedderburne  declared,  that  he  went  to  Marjory  Winlter, 
who  feemed  to  him  to  diffemble  and  feinzie  madneffe.  Mr.  David  Dal 
gleifhe  lykewyfe  declared,  that  file  had  gone  away  to  Sandandros  whence 
fhe  came.  The  Prefbyterie  ordeines  Mr.  William  Row  to  acquaint  the 
minifters  of  Sandandros  heirwith. 

Junij  7. — Mr.  George  Nairne  came  for  correfpondence  from  the  Pref 
byterie  of  Sandandros,  whom  the  Prefbyterie  defyred  to  caufe  their 
Prefbyterie  fummond  my  Lord  and  my  Lady  Abercromby  to  compeir 
before  ws  againft  this  day  fyften  dayes  ;  and  lykewyfe  to  try  anent  Mar 
jory  Winfter,  fufped  of  witchcraft,  fled  to  their  bownds. 

Junij  1 4. — This  day,  Mr.  Walter  Greig  produced  the  proceffes  of  the 
Seffioun  of  Balrmrrinoch  and  Prefbyterie  againft  Elfpet  Seith,  together 
with  Mr.  Alexander  Colwill,  Juftice  deput,  his  adwyfe  theiranent,  fub- 
fcryved  with  his  hand,  declaring,  that  in  them  their  ar  fufficient  grownds 
againft  hir  of  incarceration  ad  inquifitionem.  Lykeas,  Mr.  Walter  pro- 


144  THE  PRESBYTERY  JUNE  1649. 

duced  a  warrand,  from  the  Parliament  to  the  Magiftrats  of  Couper,  to 
apprehend  and  incarcerat  hir.  The  Prefbyterie  ordeines  Mr.  John  Alex 
ander  to  goe  and  acquaint  the  Magiftrats  of  Couper  heirwith,  and  defyre 
their  afli  fiance  theirin. 

Mr.  William  Row  reported,  that  the  Earle  of  Crawfuird  and  his  family 
did  not  joyne  (my  Lady  being  ficke  and  not  able  to  joyne)  in  the  thankf- 
giving,  defyring  the  Prefbyteries  dire&ion  theiranent.  The  Prefbyterie 
refolves  to  enquyre  at  the  neighbour  Prefbyteries  what  they  have  done  in 
fie  caifTes ;  and  for  this  end,  ordeines  Mr.  David  Reatt  to  correfpond  with 
San&androfl,  and  Mr.  William  Livingfloun  with  Kirkaldy. 

Junij  21. — The  whilk  day,  Mr.  Walter  Greig  reported,  that  the  Magif 
trats  of  Couper  refuifed  a  prifon  for  Elfpet  Seith,  notwithflanding  that 
the  Seffioun  of  Balmirrinoch  had  lent  two  elders  to  be  caution  for  hir 
charges  during  hir  emprifTonment.  David  Robertfone  compeired,and  in  the 
name  of  the  Towne  of  Couper  offered  the  theifes-holl  to  be  a  prifon  to  hir. 
The  Prefbyterie  ordeines  Mr.  Andrew  Bennett,  and  George  Paterfone, 
to  reprefent  to  the  Magiftrats  the  inconveniency  of  that  place,  and  to  re- 
quyre  a  more  fitting. 

The  Prefbytery  ordeines  Commifiioners  to  the  Generall  AfTembly  to 

• 

have  their  charges  payed  conftantly  heirafter,  as  they  werre  the  laft  yeir, 
viz.  that  thefe  who  have  bein  Commiffioners  before  fhall  have  50  merks. 
And  ordeines  the  brethren  to  bring  in  thair  feverall  proportiones  of  the 
famyn  againfl  this  day  eight  dayes ;  and  Mr.  Andrew  Bennett  to  be  col- 
le&or  of  it.  Mr.  David  Reatt  protefted  againft  the  a£b,  whofe  reafones 
fhalbe  fein. 

Mr.  David  Reat  reported  that  he  had  correfponded  with  the  Prefbyterie 
of  Sanftandros  the  laft  day,  and  declared,  that  that  Prefbyterie  had  referred 
fuch  malignants  amongft  them  as  abfented  themfelfes  from  the  thanki- 
geving,  and  werre  formerly  fufpendit  from  the  Covenant  and  Communion, 
to  the  nixt  Generall  AfTembly.  The  Prefbytery  refolves  to  follow  that 
fame  courfe  withe  the  Earle  of  Crawfurd  and  fuch  of  his  family  as  did 
abfent  themfelffes  from  the  thankfgiving ;  who  ar  theirfor  referred  to  the 
enfewing  Generall  AfTembly. 

Junij  28. — The  Prefbytery  recommends  to  the  feverall  brethren  that 


AUG.  1649.  OF  CUPAR.  145 

the  Catechefe,  difcharged  by  the  laft  Generall  Affemblie,  be  not  ufed  within 
their  bounds.1 

The  Prefbyterie  apointes  our  Commiflioners  to  reprefent  to  the  Gene 
rall  Affembly  thefe  following  defyres : 

Fir/I,  That  the  Affembly  would  think  wpon  a  way  for  helping  the  pro- 
vifion  of  the  Poore  in  thefe  parodies  where  the  heritors  and  poffeffors  of 
lands  doe  not  refide. 

2.  That  the  Affembly  would  preffe  the  meitting  of  that  Committy  of 
lawiers,  phyfitians,  and  divynes,  for  the  Tryall  of  Witches. 

3.  That  the  Parliament  may  be  defyred  to   caufe  the  Committy  for 
Plantation  of  Kirks  to  fitt,  that  benefitts  granted  by  the  Parliament  to  the 
Kirk  may  be  confirmed  in  law  wheir  neid  is. 

4.  That  the  Affembly  wold  carefully  enquyre  after  that  divifive  Suppli 
cation  that  was  hatching  about  the  tyme  of  the  laft  Generall  Affembly, 
that  this  Prefbyterie  and  province  may  be  freed  from  any  imputation 
theirin. 

5.  That  ane  wniforme  courfe  for  wfing  of  the  Dire&ory  of  Worfhip  may 
be  apointed  throghout  the  Kirk. 

Auyujl  6,  1649. — This  day,  we  received  a  lettre  from  the  Prelbytrie  of 
Perth,  defyring  our  concurrence  for  taking  away  the  fcandalous  and  fin- 
full  fying  of  fhearers  on  the  Sabboth  day  at  Abernethy.  The  Prelbyterie 
ordeines  the  fame  to  be  difcharged  publikly  out  of  pulpit,  and  that  their 
be  no  fying  of  fhearers  upon  the  Lords  day  at  Abernethy,  nor  Couper,  nor 
any  wher  elfe  within  our  bounds ;  and  Mr.  David  Dalgleifhe,  with  Ferny, 
ar  ordeined  to  reprefent  the  fame  to  the  Committy  of  the  iliyre,  and  to 
defyre  them  to  apoint  fome  other  day  for  that  effe6t ;  and  a  lettre  to  be 
written  to  the  Prelbyterie  of  Perth  lignifieing  the  fame. 

The  proceffes  of  the  Seffioun  of  Kilmany,  (together  with  thefe  that 
werre  adjoyned  with  them,)  againft  Elfpet  Bell,  is  committed  to  Mr.  James 
Wedderburne  to  be  revifed  againft  the  nixt  day. 

1  The  General  Assembly,  on  28  July  1648,  prohibited  the  "  selling,  or  using  in  Schools  or 
families  of  a  little  Catechism,  entitled,  The  A,  B,  C,  with  the  Catechism,  which  contains  very 
gross  errors  in  point  of  universal  Redemption,  and  in  the  number  of  the  Sacraments."  At  the 
same  time,  the  Catechism  agreed  upon  by  the  Assembly  of  Divines  at  Westminster,  was  sanc 
tioned  "  as  a  common  Catechism  for  the  three  kingdomes." — Acts  Gen.  Ass. 

T 


146  THE  PRESBYTERY  AUG.  1649. 

Elfpet  Seith  is  ordeined  to  be  recommended  to  the  Magiftrats  of 
Couper  to  be  incarcerat  for  tryall.  The  Baillyies  ar  defyred  to  caufe 
keip  hir  clofle,  and  permitt  no  body  to  offer  violence  to  hir,  nor  have  ac- 
cefle  to  hir,  but  fuch  as  the  Prefbyterie  (hall  appoint.  The  Prelbytrie 
ordeines  two  of  their  brethren  to  come  in  all  the  dayes  of  the  week,  per 
vices,  except  Saturday,  to  exhort  hir  and  pray  with  hir ;  and  defyres  Mr. 
James  Givane  be  clerk  to  the  procefie. 

Alexander  Jamelbn  being  called,  and  poled,  If  he  had  apointed  and  foght 
a  duell  with  Henry  Sibbald  ?  Acknowledged  that  he  had  foughten  with 
him,  but  accidentaly,  and  not  by  any  mutuall  appointment  betuixt  them, 
and  theirfor  denyed  it  to  be  a  dwell.  He  is  fummond,  apud  afcta,  to  com- 
peir  the  nixt  day. 

Mr.  Andrew  Bennett  declared,  that  he  had  fent  over  the  money  for  the 
Irifh  boyes  to  our  Commiflioners  at  Edenburgh,  and  Mr.  William  Row 
produced  a  difcharge  heirof,  fubfcryved  by  Mr.  James  Hamiltoun,  who 
was  ordeined  to  be  the  receiver  of  the  fame. 

Mr.  Alexander  Balfour  and  Ferny  ar  ordeined  to  deiyre  the  proved 
and  magiftratts  of  Couper  to  change  their  Monday  and  Saturdayes  mercatts 
to  fome  other  day  of  the  week. 

Augu/l  23. — The  brethren  ar  apointed  to  difcharge  publikly  out  of  pul 
pit  the  fying  of  Iherers  wpon  the  Lords  day  ;  and  to  intimat  that  the  tyme 
apointed  by  the  Committy  of  the  fhyre  is  Saturday,  about  5  houres  after 
noon  in  Couper ;  and  at  Abernethy  by  the  Committy  of  Perth,  on  Monei- 
day  at  5  in  the  morning.  Mr.  Lawrence  Oliphant  is  ordeined,  in  name  of 
the  Prelbyterie,  to  fignify  fo  much  to  the  Prefbyterie  of  Perth. 

Henry  Sibbald,  being  called,  confefied,  that  he  had  ignorantly  faid  that 
he  had  fought  a  dwell  with  Alexander  Jamefone,  but  denyed  that  they 
had  apointed  to  fight,  and  that  it  was  accidentall  betuixt  them.  The  lyke 
was  declared  by  Alexander  Jamefone.  The  Prefbyterie  finding  nothing  to 
the  contrair,  and  heiring  that  the  men  werre  reconciled,  ordeined  them  to 
be  gravely  rebuiked  for  their  difcord,  and  exhorted  by  the  Moderator  to  a 
better  cariage. 

The  brethren  ar  exhorted  carefully  to  purge  their  Sefliouns  from  fcan- 
dalous  and  ignorant  perfones ;  and  that  overtures  fhalbe  found  out  for  it. 


SEPT.  1649.  OF  CUPAR.  147 

September  6. — This  day,  the  brethren  ar  interrogat,  If  family  worfhip  be 
advanced  in  their  paroches  ?  It  is  anfwered,  fome  fmall  progreffe  in  it,  yet 
not  fo  full  as  they  wold  wifh. 

This  day,  it  is  apointed  that  all  the  perfons  who  deponed  againft  Elfpet 
Seith  be  fummond  againft  the  nixt  day,  to  be  againe  confronted  with  hir, 
and  the  brethren  ar  apointed  to  examine  hir. 

The  Moderator  produceth  a  lettre  from  the  Committy  of  the  fhyre  for 
purging  of  the  army.  And  alfo  to  try  what  fcandalous  perfones,  pedyor- 
women1  ar  amongft  them  ;  and  it  is  apointed,  that  ewery  minifter  fhall 
intimat  to  the  congregation  that  they  come  to  the  Seffioun  and  declare. 

September  13. — This  day,  Elfpet  Seith  compeires,  and  being  confronted 
with  Jean  Bruife,  the  faid  Jeane  declares,  that  Elfpet  Seith  had  faid  to  hir 
fifter,  "  Is  your  kow  calfed  ?"  The  young  lafTe  anfwered,  "  Know  ye  not 
that  our  kow  is  calfed  ?"  The  faid  Elfpet  replyed,  "  Their  is  milk  beweft 
me,  and  milk  be-eaft,  and  aill  in  David  Stennous  houfe,  and  a  hungry 
heart  can  gett  none  of  it.  The  diwell  put  his  foot  among  it."  And  be 
fore  that  tyme  tomorrow  ther  kow  wold  eate  none;  wherwpon  they  went 
to  find  Elfpet  Seith,  but  fhe  keiped  hir  clofe  within  hir  houfe  4  dayes  and 
was  not  fein  ;  but  the  faid  Elfpet  affirmed,  that  the  wind  was  in  hir  doore. 
At  laft  the  faid  Jean  went  to  hir,  and  defyred  hir  to  come  fie  their  kow, 
and  defyred  fome  feids  from  hir.  She  anfwered,  fhe  had  no  feids,  but 
{he  fhowld  gitt  fome ;  who  came  with  the  feids  fometymes  weitt,  and 
fometymes  dry ;  and  the  faid  Jean  affirmes,  that  the  faid  Elfpet  went  in 
to  lie  the  kow,  and  layd  hir  hand  wpon  hir  bake,  and  faid,  "  Lamby, 
lamby,  yee  wilbe  weill  enough."  And  from  that  tyme  furth  the  kow 
amended. 

It  is  alfo  declared  by  the  faid  Jean,  that  fhe  ufed  to  fitt  downe  in  the 
way  when  fhe  mett  any  body. 

Ifobel  Oliphant  declares,  that  hir  kow,  with  the  reft  of  the  kyne,  ufe 
to  pluk  thak  out  of  Elfpet  Seithes  houfe ;  the  faid  Elfpet  Seith  came 
furth  and  ftrak  hir  kow.  Bot  before  the  morrow,  fhe  affirmed,  that  the 
faid  Elfpet  did  caft  a  cantrep  on  hir  kow,  that  fhe  wold  not  eate  nor  give 
milk,  but  did  dwyne  on  a  long  tyme  till  fhe  dyed.  The  faid  Ifobell  affirmed, 

1  Apparently  women  of  loose  character,  who  followed  the  army  as  pedlars. 


148  THE  PRESBYTERY  SEPT.  1649. 

that  fhe  newer  fpake  it,  but  Elfpet  Seith  hir  felfe  did  blaze  it  abroad. 
She  declares,  that  fhe  did  fitt  downe  in  the  gate  ordinarly. 

Jonet  Miller  being  called,  and  confronted  with  the  laid  Elfpet,  declares, 
that  (lie  came  and  looked  in  at  Elfpet  Seithes  door,  did  fie  hir  drawing 
a  cheyne  tether,  and  theirafter  the  faid  Elfpet  tooke  the  tether,  and  did 
caft  it  eaft  and  weft,  and  fouth  and  north.1  She  afked  hir  what  fhe  was 
doing ;  anfwered,  "  I  am  ewen  looking  at  my  kowes  tether."  The  faid 
Jonet  affirmes,  that  it  is  not  a  yeir  fince  till  Mertimes,  and  it  is  evidently 
knowne  that  fhe  had  not  a  kow  this  fixteen  yeir. 

The  faid  Elfpet  denyes  all,  and  wold  have  ufed  violence  to  the  faid 
Jonet  if  fhe  had  bein  permitted. 

Jean  Anderfone  being  called,  and  confronted  with  the  faid  Elfpet,  de 
clared,  that  the  faid  Elfpet  requyred  milk,  and  flic  gave  hir  bread  but  no 
milk.  And  when  fhe  went  to  milk  hir  kow,  fhe  fand  nothing  but  blood 
firft,  and  theirafter  blak  water  all  that  feafon.  The  faid  Jean  being 
queftioned,  If  fhe  did  call  the  faid  Elfpet  a  witch  ?  She  confeffed  fhe 
did.  She  declared  alfo,  that  the  faid  Elfpet  ufed  to  fit  downe  when  fhe 
mett  any  body. 

Andrew  Patrik,  being  confronted  with  the  faid  Elfpet,  is  queftioned, 
If  ewer  he  law  the  faid  Elfpet  early  or  late  in  the  fold  ?  Anfwered,  that 
he  had  fein  hir  feverall  tymes,  and  once  he  faw  hir  in  the  morning,  and 
he  had  a  litle  dog  who  barked  defpytefully  at  hir:  She  defyred  him, 
"  Stay  the  dog."  He  anfwercd,  "  I  wold  it  wold  worry  yow."  Their 
after  the  dog  newer  eated.  He  affirmed  alfo,  that  he  faw  hir  amongft 
thefe  women  dancing.  She  denyed  all. 

The  faid  Andrew  affirmed,  that  Johne  Blak  in  the  paroche  of  Forgen, 
and  Johne  Mitchel  in  the  paroche  of  Leuchars,  could  declare  concerning 
hir  ;•  wherfor  the  Prefbyterie  ordeines  Mr.  James  Wedderburne,  and  Mr. 
Johne  Dury  to  wrett  to  thele  paroches  to  caufe  fummond  the  laids  per- 
fones. 

Margaret  Boyd  is  confronted  with  the  faid  Elfpet,  and  declares,  that 

i  Witches  were  said  to  have  had  the  power  of  making  the  milk  of  their  neighbour's  cow 
flow  into  their  own  vessels,  by  drawing,  or  milking  (as  it  was  termed,)  a  tedder  in  Satan's 
name,  and  circulating  it  in  a  contrary  direction  to  the  sun. 


OCT.  1649.  OF  CUPAR.  14.9 

hir  goodman,  Robert  Broun,  went  to  deathe  with  it,  that  Elfpet  Seith  and 
other  two  did  ryde  him  to  deathe  ;  which  he  declared  before  the  minifters 
wyfe,  Mr.  James  Sibbald,  fcholmafter,  and  David  Stennous,  elder.  She 
affirmes  allb,  that  he  afked  his  wyfe,  If  fhe  did  not  fie  hir  goe  away  ?  She 
feared,  and  anfwered  him,  that  fhe  faw  not ;  and  immediatly  he  was  eafed. 

Jonet  Miller  againe  compeirs,  and  declares  that  hir  howfband,  David 
Grahame,  faw  Elfpet  Seith  and  Helen  Young  meitt,  the  one  going  one 
way,  and  the  other  another,  the  faid  Elfpet  fat  downe  on  hir  knees,  and 
Helen  Young  layd  hir  hand  on  hir  fho wider,  and  flie  fpak  fome  words  to 
hir.  The  faid  David  Grahame  queftioning  Helen  Young  on  hir  deadbed, 
what  fhe  was  doing  then  when  they  mate  ?  She  anfwered,  that  fhe  was 
defyring  Elfpet  Seith  to  witch  him.  He  queflioned  hir,  why  fhe  wold  not 
doe  it  hir  felfe  ?  She  anfwered,  fhe  had  no  power. 

Ifobel  Blak  called,  and  confronted  with  the  faid  Elfpet,  declares  no 
thing,  but  that  fhe  wfed  ordinarly  to  hurch  downe  in  the  gate  lyk  a  hare. 

The  brethren  ar  apointed  to  meitt  with  hir  for  tryall ;  Fryclay,  Mr. 
Jolme  Alexander  ;  Monday,  Mr.  Laurence  Oliphant ;  Twyfdey,  Mr.  James 
Martin  ;  Weddenfday,  Mr.  Johne  Litlejohne. 

September  20. — For  purging  of  the  Army,  Mr.  David  Reatt  declares, 
that  their  is  one  Johne  Watfon  quartered  with  them  who  was  in  the  late 
Engadgement. 

Mr.  Alexander  Balfour  declares,  that  in  Ebdy  their  is  alib  Johne  Litle. 

Mr.  Andrew  Bennett  declares,  that  one  Andrew  Crocatt  had  long  fince 
raviflied  a  woman  in  their  paroche  ;  and  therfor  now  defyres  to  know  if 
he  werre  in  the  rolls  of  foldiers. 

Mr.  Walter  Greig  declares,  that  one  Johne  Carny  had  committed  a 
ryot  within  their  paroche. 

Concerning  the  tryall  of  others  ther,  it  is  recommended  farder  diligence. 

This  day  compeirs  Johne  Blak,  who  declared,  that  he  faw  a  hare  fucking 
a  kow,  and  fhe  run  in  among  the  hemp  towards  Elfpet  Seiths  houfe. 

This  day,  Mr.  David  Orme  produceth  a  procefs  againft  Thomas  Marre, 
concerning  his  innaturality  to  his  parents.  It  is  referred  to  the  A6bs  of 
Parliament  and  Provinciall. 

Mr.  David  Dalgleifhe  defyred  to  be  referred  to  the  Provinciall,  anent 
the  forme  of  teaching  the  Catechife  for  the  ufe  of  ruder  people. 


150  THE  PRESBYTERY  Nov.  1649. 

Oftober  11. — This  day,  the  Moderator  did  queftion  the  brethren  who 
werre  apointed  to  try  Elfpet  Seith,  fufped  of  witchcraft,  that  week.  It 
is  anfwered,  that  they  had  found  nothing  confefTed. 

It  is  apointed,  that  two  of  the  brethren  fhall  meitt,  per  vices,  for  tryall  of 
Elfpet  Seith. 

Oftnber  25. — This  day,  the  Prefbytrie  apoints  two  brethren  to  goe  to 
the  proveft  and  bailzies  of  Couper,  and  to  enquyre  anent  Elfpet  Seith, 
fufpett  of  witchcraft,  if  they  wold  tak  hir  off  their  hand,  and  put  hir  in  a 
dole  prifon,  wheir  none  might  have  acceffe  to  hir,  and  that  they  wold 
apoint  fome  to  watch  hir  wpon  hir  [their  ?]  owne  expenfs. 

This  day,  Andrew  Clerk,  in  the  paroche  of  Darfy,  appeirs  before  the 
Prefbyterie,  for  being  of  a  long  tyme  ignorant  and  flighting  the  dyetts  of 
examination.  He  is  apointed  to  mak  publik  declaration  of  his  repentance 
in  fackcloth  before  the  pulpit,  and  to  keep  the  dyetts  of  examination 
when  the  minifter  fhall  requyre  him ;  and  if  betuixt  this  and  Candelmes 
he  fhall  not  give  evidence  of  more  diligence  to  learne,  they  will  proceed 
again  (I  him  in  the  fentence  of  excommunication. 

[Mr.  William  Wemyfs,  minifter  at  Auchterhoufe.] 

This  day,  the  Magiftrats  of  Couper  returned  ane  anfwerto  the  Prefbyterie, 
ihewing,*  that  they  wold  give  no  other  concurrence  in  trying  of  Elfpet 
Seith,  except  the  theiffes-holl  to  be  a  wardhowfe  for  hir.  It  is  apointed, 
that  the  Commiffioners  (hall  fupplicat  the  Commiffion  of  Eftates  to  caufe 
the  towne  of  Couper  concurre  for  trying  of  hir,  and  to  caufe  them  watch  hir. 

November  8. — It  is  apointed,  that  Mr.  Walter  Greig  fhall  correfpond 
with  San&andros,  anent  fupplicating  the  Committy  of  Eflates,  for  caufmg 
the  towne  of  Couper  concurre  in  the  tryall  of  Elfpet  Seith,  according  to  a 
warrand  from  the  Parliament. 

November  21. — Thomas  Kynneir,  in  the  paroche  of  Kilmany,  appears 
before  the  Prefbyterie,  for  wenting  imprudently  what  he  cowld  not  prove, 
caling  Helen  Swyn  a  witch,  having  nothing  for  it  but  that  Andrew  Patrik 
had  rownded  it  to  him.  He  is  apointed  to  mak  publik  declaration  of  his 
repentance  for  the  fclander. 

They  alfo  defyre,  that  a  lift  of  the  names  of  the  poore  in  ewery  paroche 
be  broght  in  to  the  Prefbyterie.  As  alfo,  a  lift  of  thefe  that  ftand  out 
and  have  not  fubfcryved  the  Covenant, 


JAN.  1650.  OF  CUPAR.  151 

The  whilk  day,  Sir  Robert  Crichtoun,  in  the  paroche  of  Falkland,  ap- 
peirs,  and  acknowledges  himfelf  to  have  bein  at  Sterling,  and  to  have  bein 
at  Philiphaugh,  and  to  have  beiu  with  James  Graham  in  his  rebellioun. 
He  is  referred  to  the  Commiffion  of  the  Generall  Affembly. 

December  6. — Elfpet  Seith,  in  the  paroche  of  Balmirrinoch,  fufpeft  of 
witchcraft,  appeiring,  the  Prefbyterie,  confidering  that  the  town  of  Cou- 
per  wold  not  affift  in  warding  and  watching  the  faid  Elfpet,  (according  to 
the  A&  of  Parliament,)  and  not  finding  it  poffible  to  gett  hir  otherwyfe 
tryed,  having  called  hir  before  them,  did  ordein  hir,  lykas  fhe  promyfed 
to  compeir  againe  when  ewer  Ibe  fhowld  be  requyred. 

December  20. — The  whilk  day,  Mr.  William  Livingftoun  declares  to  the 
Prefbyterie,  that  he  had  agreed  with  the  heritors  of  the  paroche  of  Falk 
land,  anent  the  augmentation  of  his  ftipend,  and  for  furnifhing  the  Com 
munion  Elements,  and  to  give  fowrty  pounds  for  his  howfe  meall ;  which 
is  allowed  by  the  Prefbyterie. 

This  day,  Mr.  Johne  Berwik,  in  the  paroche  of  Falkland,  acknowledges 
that  he  had  fpoken  rafhly  of  the  Marques  of  Argyle.  His  fault  being 
gravely  laid  to  his  charge  by  the  Moderator,  he  is  apointed  to  mak  publik 
declaration  of  his  repentance  before  the  pulpit  in  the  Kirk  of  Falkland. 

January  17,  1650. — It  is  apointed  by  the  Prefbyterie,  that  my  Lord 
Abercromby,  for  removing  of  that  fcandal  and  report  raifed  by  him  vpon 
his  Lady  at  Falkland,  fliall  appeir  in  the  Kirk  of  Falkland,  wpon  ane 
Sonday  before  noon  after  fermon,  and  having  acquaint  the  minifter  with 
his  prefence  and  refolution  to  fatiffy,  fhall  declare  his  fault  in  the  featt 
quher  he  fhall  happen  to  fitt  publikly  in  prefence  of  the  congregation ; 
and  fo  fhalbe  receaved  by  the  minifter  of  the  faid  kirk.  And  for  that 
effe6t,  ordeines  Mr.  James  Wedderburne  to  acquaint  the  Prefbyterie  of 
San&andros  heirwith,  that  they  may  urge  him  heirvnto. 

This  day,  Sir  George  Morifon,  being  called,  appeirs  before  the  Prefby 
terie,  and  acknowledges  that  he  had  fubfcryved  the  Proteflation  againft 
the  Supplication  of  the  Kirk ;  he  profeffing  his  forrow  for  the  fame,  he 
did  fubfcryve  the  Renunciation  of  that  Proteftation.  He  is  apointed  to 
mak  publik  declaration  of  his  repentance  the  nixt  Lords  day  in  the  kirk 
of  Darfy,  and  fo  to  be  admittit  to  the  Covenant  and  Communion. 


152  THE  PRESBYTERY  FEB.  1650. 

This  day,  Mr.  David  Dalgleifhe  reports  from  the  Committy  of  the  fhyre, 
that  the  Committy  was  beginning  to  tak  up  a  lift  of  the  Malignants.  As 
alfo,  that  they  werre  entring  to  find  a  way  for  pro vi (ion  of  the  poore. 

January  31. — The  whilk  day,  Mr.  Johne  Makgill  elder,  Moderator, 
with  Mr.  David  Orme,  minifter  at  Monemell,  reported  that,  according  to 
the  apointment  of  the  Prefbyterie,  they  went  to  Collefly  the  6  of  this  in- 
ftant,  their  mett  with  the  Heritors  of  the  laid  paroche  for  fetling  the 
minifter,  according  to  the  a&  of  Parliament,  in  ftipend,  manfe,  gleib,  com 
munion  elements,  graffe,  and  foggifli ;  and  fand  them  content  in  all  par 
ticulars,  according  to  the  late  a&,  to  mak  out  for  ftipend  fixe  chalders 
vittuall,  one  hundreth  pounds,  fyfty  merks  for  communion  elements,  and 
to  give  him  fyve  hundreth  merks  for  reedifieing  of  his  manfe ;  and  that 
the  Prefbyterie  defigne  grafie  with  his  gleib,  with  the  priviledges  of  fewell 
and  foggifli,  whilk  accordingly  they  defigned :  whilk  diligence  the  Prefby 
terie  did  approve,  recommending  to  the  Lords  •Commiffioners  for  fur- 
renders  the  ratification  heirof,  together  with  the  reedifieing  in  quality  and 
quantity  as  fliall  fbem  fitteft  to  their  Lordfhips. 

Peter  Hay  of  Forrett,  being  called,  appeirs  before  the  Prefbyterie,  and 
acknowledges  his  forrow  for  being  a  Roetmafter1  in  the  late  finfull  En- 
gadgenient.  He  is  apointed  to  fubfcryve  the  Band  annexed  to  the  Decla 
ration  (which  he  did),  and  to  mak  publik  declaration  of  his  repentance 
the  nixt  Sabaoth  in  the  kirk  of  Logy. 

February  28. — This  day,  Mr.  David  Dalgleifhe  prefents  a  letter  from 
Thomas  Setoun  coronett  his  mother,  fhowing  hir  confent  to  his  mariage ; 
together  with  a  teftificat  from  Collonel  Sir  Johne  Browne,  of  his  fatiffac- 
tion  for  being  in  the  Engadgement ;  as  alfo,  a  teftimoniall  from  Mr. 
David  Lyndfay,  minifter  at  Bahelvie,  of  his  good  education.  The  Prefby 
terie  apoints  him  to  be  maried. 

This  day,  their  is  prefented  19  Declarationes  of  the  Committy  of  Eftates, 
together  with  the  Kirks  Declaration  in  anfwere  to  James  Grahame  his 
Declaration.  The  brethren  ar  apointed  to  reid  the  Kirks  Declaration  in 
ewery  kirk  the  nixt  Sabaoth. 

1  Ritmaster,  a  Captain  of  horse. 


MAY  1650,  OF  CUPAR.  153 

March  21. — The  whilk  day,  is  prefented  a  lettre  from  the  Commiffion 
of  the  Generall  AfTembly,  ordeining  a  faft  to  be  keiped  the  firft  Sabaoth  of 
Apryl,  for  the  fame  caufes  that  the  former  faft  was  keiped  ;  and  that  wee 
may  concurre  with  the  Commiffioners  to  his  Majeftie.  It  is  apointed  to 
be  intimat  the  laft  Sabaoth  of  March. 

The  whilk  day,  the  Prefbyterie  having  receaved  a  lettre  from  the  Prefby- 
terie  of  Kirkaldy,  and  prefented  by  Mr.  Henry  Wilkie,  that  new  ere&ed 
landward  paroche  of  Kirkaldy  had  given  a  call  to  Mr.  Patrik  Wems, 
expe&ant  amongft  us,  to  be  their  minifter,  which  they  had  appro ven ;  and 
to  interpofe  our  authority  with  the  faid  Mr  Patrik  to  follow  the  faid  call. 
The  Prefbyterie,  taking  the  foirfaids  to  their  ferious  confideration,  doe  ad- 
vyfe  the  faid  Mr.  Patrik  to  follow  the  call  given  to  him  by  the  paroche 
and  Prefbyterie  of  Kirkaldy,  and  to  goe  to  the  faid  Prefbyterie  and  enter 
to  his  tryalls  as  he  fhalbe  requyred. 

Apryl  11. — James  Dury,  in  the  paroche  of  Newburgh,  being  delated, 
and  being  obferved  to  be  ane  ordinar  breaker  of  the  Sabaoth,  and  con 
temning  the  difcipline  of  the  Kirk,  is  apointed  to  be  fummond  to  ap- 
peir  before  the  Prefbyterie  this  day  eight  dayes. 

The  A6t  anent  civile  mulfts,  and  eftablifhing  of  Judicatories  in  Seffiouns 
for  exa6bing  mu!6ts,  and  all  A6ts  relative  to  finne,  ar  apointed  to  be  broght 
home  by  the  Commiffioners. 

Maij  9. — This  day,  the  new  paraphrafe  of  the  Pfalmes  came  from  the 
Commiffion  of  the  Kirk ;  ewery  brether  received  a  copy,  and  werre 
apointed  to  intimat  to  their  congregationes  on  the  Sabaoth  following  be 
fore  noon  and  afternoon  to  pradife  them. 

J.  Dury. — James  Dury,  in  the  paroche  of  Newburgh,  being  called, 
compeirs,  and  was  declared,  be  the  minifter,  to  have  bein  out  of  the  kirk 
eight  Sabaoths  ;  and  becaufe  he  wold  nowayes  give  fatiffa&ion,  by  fub- 
mitting  to  the  difcipline  of  the  kirk,  he  is  recommendit  to  the  civile 
magiftrate  to  be  put  in  firmance  till  he  fand  fufficient  caution  to  give  fa- 
tiffa&ion  to  the  order  of  the  Kirk. 

At  Logy,  Maij  16. —  Vifitation  of  Logy. — The  whilk  day,  the  Prefbyterie 
mett  at  the  Kirk  of  Logie,  (according  to  the  former  ordinance,)  Mr.  David 
Beatt  preached.  After  incalling  of  the  name  of  God,  is  produced,  for- 

u 


154  THE  PRESBYTERY  MAY  1650. 

maly  indorfed,  the  roll  of  the  heritors  and  elders  is  called  for,  produced  ; 
and  all  of  them  being  cited,  compeired,  except  Southefk,  for  whom  the  Laird 
of  Aitoun  wndertook.  The  Moderator  declares  to  them  the  end  of  their 
meitting. 

The  draught  of  the  interrogatories  concerning  minifters  and  elders  ar 
red ;  both  of  thame  ar  taken  fworne  to  declare  the  truthe,  in  fb  far  as 
they  know;  all  ar  removed,  except  Alexander  Ramfay,  who,  upon  his 
oath  declares,  that  the  minifter  had  a  litle  forgetfulnefle  in  celebrating 
the  Communion,  viz.  that  he  fate  at  the  end  of  the  table,  and  did  reach 
the  elements  to  als  many  as  he  could ;  and  that  he  was  flak  in  vifiting  the 
ficke ;  that  fome  tymes  he  red  the  papers  himfelfe,  fent  from  the  Com- 
miflion  of  the  Kirk,  and  fometymes  he  caufed  the  clerk  of  the  Sefiioun 
to  reid  them ;  and  that  he  was  flak  in  vifiting  of  families,  and  that  he  in 
clined  to  a  fet  forme  of  prayer. 

William  Bell  declares,  that  the  minifter  is  flak  in  vifiting  the  ficke ;  that 
he  lies  keiped  in  his  howfe,  for  the  fpace  of  a  yeir,  a  woman  fcandalous  for 
want  of  teftimoniall  (thogh  it  was  requyred  by  the  elders),  and  admitting 
hir  to  the  Communion. 

Mr.. James  Burne  declares,,  that  the  minifter  is  fparing  in  fpeaking 
againft  the  ewills  of  the  tyme,  efpecially  malignancy;  and  that  he  fpeaks 
not  eneugh  for  our  delyverance  from  James  Grahame ;  and  that  his  giving 
of  the  Communion  was  impertinent,  and  did  not  pleafe  him,  viz.  firft, 
taking  it  by  himfelf  alone,  then  giving  the  elements  to  als  many  as  he 
cowld  reach,  which  was  his  old  cuftome ;  and  that  he  had  a  woman  in  his 
howfe  without  a  teftimoniall,  as  faid  is ;  that  he  had  fome  converting 
with  malignants,  efpecialy  with  Mr.  James  Hey ;  that  he  is  flak  in  vifit 
ing  the  ficke  and  families ;  that  fome  tymes  he  reftraines  the  liberty  of 
elders  in  Seflioun,  but  lately  hath  amended  it. 

Johne  Miller  declares,  that  he  finds  more  comfort  in  other  minifters 
do&rine  nor  in  his;  and  that  their  is  a  difference  betuixt  his  celebratting 
of  the  Communion  and  others.  In  the  other  points  he  deponed  as  the  former. 
James  Cunnings  declares,  that  he  is  flak  in  fpeaking  againft  malig 
nants  ;  his  weekly  catechifing  is  intimat  to  none  except  to  thofe  who  ar 
advertifed  by  the  beddell. 


MAY  1650.  OF  CUPAR.  155 

The  reft  of  the  elders  ar  called,  who  depone,  that  the  minifter  is  flak  in 
vifiting  the  ficke,  and  keipes  a  woman  without  a  teftimoniall  in  his  howfe, 
as  faid  is  ;  that  before  they  had  no  freedome  to  fpeak  in  Seflioun,  but  now 
they  have ;  that  he  was  flak  in  reproving  malignants ;  and  that  his  ordinar 
text  was  in  the  Revelation,  and  his  lefture  in  Job. 

All  the  elders  defyres  the  minifter  to  be  admonifhed  to  intimat  his 
weekly  catechifing  publikly ;  and  that  they  might  have  a  fchole.  The 
heritors,  who  werre  not  elders,  declares,  that  they  cowld  fay  nothing,  in 
refped  they  werre  not  refidents  within  the  paroche.  The  brethren  of 
the  Prelbyterie  (at  left  fome  of  them)  regrates  his  vnfeafonable  filence  in 
tyme  of  the  Engadgement  againft  Malignants. 

The  elders  ar  removed,  the  minifter  is  called  wpon,  and,  wpon  his  oath, 
depones,  that  the  elders  werre  very  obedient  in  all  things,  and  diligent  in 
attending  their  callings. 

The  minifter,  heritors,  and  elders  being  altogether  prefent,  they  ar  de 
manded,  if  they  had  a  fchole  ?  Anfwered,  not  for  the  prefent.  And  be 
ing  afked,  what  overture  they  wold  make  for  having  one  ?  Anfwered,  that 
they  werre  content  that  the  fcholemafter  fliowld  have  the  annuelrent  of 
that  1000  merks  left  by  the  ynquhile  Laird  of  Logy ;  and  that  the  heritors 
werre  content  to  adde  to  the  faid  annuell  40  tib.  yeirly,  and  they  propor- 
tionaly  to  be  ftentit  for  that  effed ;  and  the  tennents  to  give  3  bolls  beir 
yeirly ;  and  all  condifcend  that  a  fchole  fliowld  be  built  primo  quoque 
tempore,  and  a  fcholmafter  provyded. 

It  is  demanded,  if  the  minifter  hes  for  the  prefent  a  fufficient  manfe 
and  gleib,  with  the  pertinents,  according  to  the  a6t  of  Parliament  ?  It  is 
anfwered,  that  he  had  a  manfe,  with  two  aikers  of  land,  without  the  per 
tinents.  The  minifter  is  ordered  to  ufe  all  diligence  for  helping  this  defed. 

Mr.  George  Thomfon  is  enquyred,  what  he  hes  obferved  in  the  Seffioun 
book  ?  Anfwered,  that  he  finds  many  imperfyte  and  informall  proceffes 
in  it ;  and  that  their  was  feverall  ads  wnbefeeming  a  Seffioun  book,  and 
feverall  mulds  employed  in  civile  ufes ;  all  which  he  cleired  from  the 
book  at  that  inftant. 

The  minifter,  heritors,  and  elders  removed,  the  Prefbyterie  falls  wpon 
advyfing  what  flialbe  the  conclufion  of  that  dayes  work.  And  whil  they 


156  THE  PRESBYTERY  JUNE  1650. 

ar  advyfing,  Mr.  Johne  Dury  comes  in,  and  earneftly  defyres  a  helper, 
promyfing,  for  his  part,  to  give  the  augmentation  prefently  granted  be  the 
Commiflion  for  plantation  of  kirks  for  his  mantenance  during  his  lyfetyme. 
The  Prefbyterie  is  very  well  pleafed  with  the  overture.  Therfore  the 
heritors  ar  called  wpon,  and  declares  the  fame  to  them,  who  werre  very 
weell  content  therwith,  promyfing,  for  their  part,  to  adde  to  the  laid  aug 
mentation  a  100  tib.  yeirly  during  the  faid  Mr.  Johne  his  lyfetyme.  They 
being  removed,  the  Prefbyterie  finds  tliir  particulars  proven  by  the  elders, 
viz.  1.  Disorderly  and  corrupt  celebratting  of  the  Communion.  2.  Ne 
gligent  in  vifiting  the  ficke.  3.  Keiping  in  his  howfe  a  yeir  a  woman 
fcandalous  for  want  of  a  teftimoniall,  thogh  it  was  requyred  by  the  elders, 
and  admitting  hir  to  the  Communion.  4.  Slak  in  fpeaking  againft 
malignancy.  5.  Sometyme  he  reftrained  elders  freedome,  but  now  hath 
amendit  it.  6.  Chufing  impertinent  places  of  Scripture  for  his  ordinary 
text  in  preaching  and  lecturing,  viz.  Revellation  laft ;  Job  for  le&ure. 
7.  No  ignorants  ar  debarred  from  the  Communion. 

Junij  12. — Mr.  George  Robertfone  his  bit/fine ffe. — Mr.  Johne  Makgill 
younger,  refufeth  to  fubfcryve  Mr.  George  Robertfone  his  teftimoniall,  in 
refpeft  he  had  heard  that  he  had  wttered  fome  light  impertinent  expref- 
fiones,  and  wnbeleeming  one  aiming  at  the  miniftrie,  as  that  he  faid,  he 
could  eafily  winne  the  favour  of  any  gentlewoman,  and  in  the  end  give 
hir  a  blew :  and  that  if  Lady  Margaret  Kennedy }  werre  a  good  chriftian, 
(lie  wold  not  ftay  in  my  Lord  Crawfuird  his  howfe :  and  he  faid,  "  I  wifhe  I 
werre  hanged,  if  I  be  maried  with  Helen  Kob,  I  fliall  call  all  malignants 
to  the  mariage,  and  my  Lord  Crawfuird  with  the  firft  :"  and  that  my  Lord 
Crawfuird  was  as  gryt  a  malignant  as  James  Grahame. 

Mr.  George  Robertfone,  being  called  and  queftioned  anent  thefe  thinges, 
confefleth  that  he  faid  he  cowld  winne  the  favour  of  any  gentle  woman, 
but  to  his  beft  memory  he  did  not  fay  he  wold  give  hir  a  blew,  nor  any 
thing  to  that  fenfe :  he  denyes  the  fecond ;  he  denyes  alfo  the  thrid  :  He 
confeffeth  that  he  faid,  whofoewer  they  werre,  be  it  my  Lord  Crawfuird 

1  She  was  the  daughter  of  John,  sixth  Earl  of  Cassillis,  and  wife  of  Bishop  Btirnet.  She 
was  reputed  a  wit,  and  a  great  patron  of  the  Presbyterians.  Her  letters  to  John,  Duke  of 
Lauderdale,  with  whom  she  intrigued,  were  published  in  1828,  4to. 


AUG.  1650.  OF  CUPAR.  157 

or  any  other,  that  werre  adors  in  that  Engadgement,  in  fo  farr  they  did 
fecond  what  James  Grahame  had  done. 

The  proceffes  of  the  women  fufpeft  of  witch  raft,  ar  delyvered  to  Mr. 
James.  Wedderburne  to  be  revifed  ;  and  he  is  ordeined  to  report. 

Junij  27- — Mr.  George  Robertfone. — The  Prelbyterie  confidering  Mr. 
George  Robertfone  his  proceffe  againft  him  fufficiently  proven,  he  is  ther- 
for  fufpendit  from  preaching  till  ther  be  gryt  evidence  of  his  repentance. 

July  4. — It  is  apointed,  that  all  the  brethren  of  the  Prelbyterie  lhall 
meett  at  Falkland  on  Monday  at  9  howres,  and  the  Moderator  is  apointed 
to  fpeak  to  the  King. 

My  Lord  Crawfurd  his  buffinejfe. — This  day,  my  Lord  Crawfuird  appeirs 
before  the  Prelbyterie,  and  dothe  acknowledge  his  wnfained  forrow  for 
being  in  the  wnlawfull  Engadgement,  the  advyfe  of  the  Prelbyterie  with 
concurrence  in  fupplicating  the  Generall  Aflembly  for  reltoring  him  to 
the  priviledges  of  the  Kirk.  The  Prelbyterie  advyfeth  his  Lordlliip  to 
goe  to  the  Generall  Affembly  and  fupplicat  them,  and  that  they  will  with 
all  ther  power  deall  for  his  Lordlhip  at  ther  hands. 

Anent  the  proceffes  of  the  women  fufped  of  witchcraft,  the  conlidera- 
tion  of  them  is  Hill  delayed,  and  ther  proceffes  ar  given  to  the  Clerk  to 
be  keiped. 

Jidij  18. — This  day,  the  Prelbyterie  mett  wpon  occalioun  of  lettres 
come  from  the  Generall  Affembly,  with  19  Seafonable  Warnings.  As 
allb,  lettres  werre  receaved  from  our  Commiffioners,  anent  the  fpeedy 
fending  of  the  moneyes  for  the  proportion  of  the  regement  of  horfes  to  be 
fent  to  Collonell  Strauchen. 

It  is  apointed,  that  no  fcandalous  perfones,  or  difaffe6ted  to  the  caufe  of 
God,  be  fent  out  for  the  army ;  and  that  none  be  fent  out  without  tefti- 
monialls  from  the  Minilter  and  Seffioun,  and  that  it  be  intimat  publikly 
owt  of  pulpit,  and  privatly  to  Commillioners  of  parilhes. 

Augu/l  1. — It  is  apointed,  that  the  publik  faft  for  Kirk,  King,  and  Coun- 
trey,  be  intimat  the  nixt  Sabboth  to  be  on  the  Sabboth  following,  and  the 
privat  faft  to  be  on  the  Fryday  before  the  publik  faft  :  And  that  rules  be 
prefcryved  by  the  Minifter  and  Seffioun,  how  families  Ihowld  behave 
themfelffes  that  day  of  the  privat  faft,  and  wher  ther  is  a  family  wherof 


158  THE  PRESBYTERY  AUG.  1650. 

none  can  reid,  that  then  they  fliall  concurre  with  another  that  can  reid  ; 
and  that  particular  dire&iones  be  given  by  the  minifter  on  Weddenfday 
preceiding. 

Augu/l  15. — Mr.  David  Dalgleifhe  declares,  that  ther  is  a  woman  fuf- 
pe&  of  witchcraft,  of  whom  he  heard  that  flie  had  communicat  in  the  kirk 
of  Sires.  She  is  apointed  to  be  fummoned  to  appeir  before  the  Prefby- 
terie  on  Monday. 

Mr.  Alexander  Balfour  reports,  that  he,  witli  Mr.  Johne  Makgill  elder, 
had  revifed  Mr.  Andrew  Lawthian  his  teftimonialls  ;  they  doe  allow  him, 
and  he  is  apointed,  to  ufe  family  worfliip  in  the  Laird  of  Aitoun  his  family, 
and  to  catechife,  pray,  and  reid. 

It  is  apointed,  that  all  the  brethren  of  the  Prefbyterie  fliall  meet  at 
Logy  this  day  eight  dayes,  and  that  their  the  minifter  (hall  preach  him- 
felfe  wpon  his  ordinar  text ;  that  all  having  intereft  may  be  prefent,  and 
that  the  meitting  be  for  fetlinge  a  college. 

At  Logy,  Augu/l  22. — The  Vifitation  of  Logy. — The  whilk  day,  Mr. 
Johne  Dury  preached  wpon  his  ordinar  text,  viz.  the  laft  ch.  of  the  Re- 
vellation,  v.  6  and  7. 

The  brethren  being  mett ;  Mr.  Johne  Dury  is  removed ;  the  brethren 
ar  enquyred  anent  ther  judgement  of  his  do&rine ;  they  all  profefle  that 
they  ar  confirmed  in  ther  opinion,  that  the  laft  chapters  of  the  Revelation 
is  nether  meett  for  the  minifter  nor  the  heirers  his  parochiners ;  and  that 
they  find  greyt  weaknefTe  in  him,  and  had  miftaken  the  text,  and  wold 
hardly  be  convinced  of  his  inabilities. 

The  elders  being  called,  and  firft  enquyred,  how  they  thoght  of  that 
dayes  do£trine  be  at  other  tymes  ?  Anfwered,  that  they  fand  grytter  cir- 
cumfpe&nefTe  in  this  then  at  other  dyetts.  Nixt  being  queftioned,  if  ther 
had  bein  any  impertinent  challenges,  ather  from  pulpit  or  in  Seffioun,  fince 
the  laft  day  of  meitting?  or  if  he  had  regrated  his  former  omiffions  or 
commifliones  ?  Anfwered,  that  he  was  Ib  far  from  regretting  his  former 
faults,  that  he  challenged  elders  both  in  pulpit  and  Seffioun  that  they  had 
wronged  him. 

All  is  delayed  till  the  nixt  day  of  meitting,  and  the  heritors  and  elders 
ar  apointed  to  be  at  the  Prefbyterie  for  farder  advancement  of  the  work. 


OCT.  1650.  OF  CUPAR.  159 

This  day,  Mr.  George  Robertfone  appeirs  before  the  Prefbyterie,  and 
heartily  bliffeth  the  Lord  for  that  cenfure  that  was  put  wpon  him.  He 
cravethe  advyfe  of  the  Prefbyterie,  whither  he  fhowld  feik  to  be  enlarged 
or  not  ?  The  advyce  is  delayed  till  another  fitter  occafion. 

Auguft  29. — This  day,  the  Prefbyterie  receaved  a  difcharge  for  their 
proportion  of  the  contribution  of  horfes,  as  followes  : 

Receaved  from  the  Presbyterie  of  Cuper,  two  thousand  one  hundrethe  and  fyfty  merks  Scotts, 
being  their  proportion  of  ther  voluntar  contribution  for  the  Ministers  regement,  according  to 
the  apointment  of  the  Generall  Assembly  :  As  witnes  my  hand,  at  Edinburgh,  24  of  August, 
1650. 

(Sic  subscribitur)  Mr.  JAMES  HAMILTOUN. 

September  5. — This  day,  ther  came  a  lettre  from  the  Committy  of  Fyiffj 
defyring  all  minifters  to  exhort  all  fenfible  perfones  within  ther  paroches 
to  be  ready  and  well  furnifhed  ;  which  they  condifcended  wnto. 

All  particulars  ar  laid  afyde,  for  the  difficulty  of  tyme ;  they  ar  referred 
to  a  more  fitting  tyme. 

O&ober  24. — Ther  came  a  lettre  this  day  from  the  Commiflioun  of  the 
Kirk,  enjoyning  every  brother  to  mak  enquyrie  in  ther  paroches,  if  ther 
be  any  that  hes  had  any  acceffioun  to  that  wicked  courfe  of  that  infur- 
re&ion  of  the  North,  and  to  difcover  the  degrees  therof ;  or  if  they  know 
any  of  the  brether  that  hes  had  hand  in  it,  to  try  all  the  brethren  :  being 
enquyred,  ther  was  nothing  found.  The  brethren  ar  defyred  to  goe  to 
the  parochiners  that  ar  any  wayes  fufpe6t,  and  try. 

October  31. — This  day,  having  receaved  a  lettre  from  the  Commiffioun 
at  Sterling,  fhowing  the  fad  and  forrowfull  eftate  of  many  of  our  prifoners 
in  Ingland  ;  to  witt,  that  about  500  of  them  ar  dead,  and  thefe  who  ar 
alyve  ar  extreamly  pinched  with  hunger,  cold,  and  want  of  all  comfort 
able  fupplies  ;  and  defyring  a  contribution  for  them  to  be  gathered  in  the 
kirks  of  this  kingdome,  and  to  fend  it  to  Sterling  to  the  proveft  and  dean 
of  guild  with  all  diligence :  The  Prelbyterie  refolved  to  condifcend  to 
the  faid  defyre,  and  mak  publik  declaration  therof  the  nixt  Sabboth,  and 
the  Sabaoth  after  receive  it  from  ewery  brother,  as  God  fball  mete  their 
hearts. 

Ther  is  received  alfo  another  lettre  defyring  to  fend  fome  of  the  brether 


160  THE  PRESBYTERY  DEC.  1650' 

aud  ruling  elders  of  moft  experience  to  Sterling  the  1 4  day  of  November, 
that  they  may  concurre  with  ther  help  and  counfell  in  fie  a  indigence, 
many  being  abfent  be  reafon  of  the  tempeftuous  day. 

The  brethren  reported,  that  they  had  found  none  that  was  privie  to  the 
King's  efcape,  nor  any  acceflbry  wnto  the  infurre&ion  of  the  malignant 
party ;  except  Mr.  William  Row,  who  declared,  that  my  Lord  Crawfuird 
denyed  that  he  knew  any  thing  of  the  King's  efcape,  but  that  he  knew 
Ionic  that  werre  to  lupplicat  the  Commiflioun  of  the  Kirk  that  they  might 
be  in  a  capacity  to  fight  for  the  caufe  of  God. 

December  5. — This  day,  Mr.  George  Hamiltoun  came  from  the  Prefby- 
terie  of  San&andros,  and  Mr.  Patrik  Wemyfs  from  the  Prefbyterie  of 
Kirkaldy,  for  correfpondence,  to  know  what  courfe  this  Prefbyterie  wold 
tak  with  thole  that  werre  acceflTory  to  the  Kinges  efcape,  and  who  had  any 
correfpondence  with  thofe  enemies,  or  had  taken  protection  from  them. 
It  is  apointed,  that  ewery  brother  fhall  try  in  their  feverall  Sefliounes  if 
ther  be  any,  and  to  bring  in  their  report  in  writt ;  and  Mr.  William  Row 
is  apointed  to  correfpond  with  San&andros,  and  Mr.  Johne  Ramfay  with 
Kirkaldy  Prefbyteries,  for  that  effect. 

December  12. — Ther  was  alfo  a  lettre  received  from  the  Commiflioun  of 
the  Kirk,  declaring  ther  fenfe  anent  the  Remonftrances  of  the  gentlemen, 
officiars,  and  minifters,  attending  the  forces  of  the  Weft.  Ther  was  alfo 
ane  A6t  received  anent  complyers  with  feftaries,  or  the  fe&arian  army ; 
and  thefe  who  werre  acceffory  to  the  late  rebellioun  in  the  North,  be  fuf- 
pendit  from  the  communion  till  the  nixt  Generall  Aflembly,  to  the  which 
they  ar  referred. 

This  day,  is  produced  my  Lord  Crawfuird  his  declaration,  wnder  his 
owne  hand,  the  tenor  wherof  followes  : 

I  doe  declare,  that  I  never  gave  his  Majestic  advyse  to  leave  the  Committy  and  goe  North, 
nor  knew  of  his  going  untill  I  had  it  from  Dundy,  and  a  command  to  attend  him.  I  surelv 
professe  that  I  knew  some  werre  resolved  to  petition  for  liberty  to  hazard  theinselues  and  all 
was  deure  to  them,  for  defence  of  Religioun  and  the  Covenant,  of  which  number  I  was  one, 
and  am  still  redy  and  desyrous  to  dee  so  if  it  shall  seem  good.  But  for  other  designes  prseju- 
diciall  to  Judicatory  or  person  I  know  none. 

(Sic  tubscribitur  )  CRAUFUBD. 


JAN.  1651.  OF  CUPAR.  161 

The  Prefbyterie  haveing  received  the  former  declaration,  wnder  my 
Lord  Crawfuird  his  owne  hand,  anent  his  fuppofed  acceffioun  to  the  Kings 
withdrawing  from  his  Cownfell,  and  the  late  rebellion  of  the  North  :  And 
the  faid  declaration  being  publickely  red,  and  all  the  brethren  being  feve- 
rally  interrogat,  If  they  knew  any  thing  further  of  any  acceffioun  to  thefe 
finfull  courfes  then  he  himfelfe  had  declared  ?  Anfwered,  they  knew 
nothing.  The  Prefbyterie,  haveing  taken  the  praemiffes  to  their  confide- 
ration,  and  being  appointed  by  the  Commiffioun  of  the  Generall  AfTembly 
to  give  in  the  report  anent  the  faid  mater,  and  perfounes  acceffory  therto 
within  our  bownds,  at  their  firft  Seffioun,  doe  therfor  ordein  a  double  of 
the  faid  noble  Lords  declaration,  together  with  the  a6t,  to  be  fent  to  the 
Commiffioun  now  fitting  at  Perth.  And  if  any  thing  further  fhalbe  made 
appeir  to  ws,  either  concerning  the  faid  noble  Lord,  or  any  other  within 
our  bownds  heirafter,  it  fhalbe  lykewyfe  reported  with  convenient  diligence. 

December  23. — The  whilk  day,  a  reference  from  the  Commiffioun  of  the 
Kirk  to  the  Prefbyterie  of  Cupar,  anent  Sir  Mungo  Murray,  for  his  ac 
ceffioun  to  the  late  wnlawfull  Engadgement  againft  the  kingdome  of  Ing- 
land,  that  they  may  conferre  with  him  and  try  the  evidence  of  his  repen 
tance,  and  report  their  opinion  to  the  nixt  meitting  of  the  Commiffioun, 
being  red ;  and  the  faid  Sir  Mungo,  perfonally  prefent,  being  heard,  who 
acknowledged,  that  he  was  a  Collonell  of  horfe  in  the  faid  late  wnlawfull 
Engadgement,  for  the  which  he  was  heartily  forrowfull ;  declaring  the 
fame  to  be  finfull,  wnlawfull,  and  deftrudive  to  the  Covenant  and  work  of 
reformation  ;  and  that  he  was  forrie  he  had  done  any  thing  againft  the  de- 
clarationes  of  the  Kirk ;  and  promyfed  to  walk  more  circumfpe&ly  in  tyme 
comeing :  And  the  Prefbyterie,  haveing  heard  the  report  of  the  brethren 
appointed  to  conferre  with  him,  doe  conceive  the  faid  Sir  Mungo  to  be  in 
genuous  in  his  confeffioun,  and  haveing  exhorted  him  to  walk  in  a  cloffe  com 
munion  with  God,  and  to  fyde  with  the  people  of  God,  teftify  the  praamifies, 
fubfcry ved  by  the  Moderator  and  Clerk,  by  the  ordinance  of  the  Prefbyterie. 

January  16,  1651. — The  whilk  day,  there  is  reprefented  a  reference 
from  the  Commiffioun  of  the  Generall  Affembly,  anent  the  receiving  of 
Sir  Mungo  Murray  his  repentance.  Mr.  David  Dalgleifhe  and  Mr.  Wal 
ter  Greig  ar  appointed  to  conferre  with  him  anent  the  tryall  of  the  evidence 

x 


162  THE  PRESBYTERY  JAN.  1651. 

of  his  repentance,  they  report  they  werre  fatiffied.  He  is  therfor  appointed  to 
mak  declaratioun  of  his  repentance  in  the  kirk  of  Cupar  the  nixt  Lords  day. 

This  day,  Mr.  Walter  Greig  informed  the  Prefbyterie,  that  he  had  receiv 
ed  advertifement  that  ther  had  bein  fuch  do&rine  preached  by  Mr.  William 
Livingftoun  in  the  Kinges  hearing  as  requyred  to  be  adverted,  and  that  gave 
offence  to  fome.  The  Prefbyterie  apointed,  that  the  faid  Mr.  William  fhall  goe 
totheCommiffiounof  the  Kirk,  and  theircleir  himfelfe,  as  he  himfelfedefyred. 

January  23. — The  whilk  day,  the  Earle  of  Crawfuird  being  referred  by 
the  Commiflioun  of  the  Generall  Afiembly  to  the  Prefbyterie  of  Cupar, 
for  giveing  fatiffa&ion  for  any  acceffioun  he  had  to  the  Kings  late  efcape ; 
The  Prefbyterie  haveing  pofed  him  anent  his  acceffioun  therwnto,  or  that 
rebellioun  in  the  North,  he  declared  as  before,  that  he  was  not  wpon  the 
cownfell  of  the  Kings  going  away,  nor  knew  of  it  till  he  heard  that  the 
King  was  at  Dundey,  which  occafioned  his  going  thither.  Lykewyfe,  he 
acknowledged,  that  he  knew  feverall  on  the  northfyde  of  Tay  had  a  pur- 
pofe  to  fupplicat  for  liberty  to  a6t  againft  the  enemy ;  but  of  their  decla 
ration  or  hoftile  ads  which  followed  ther  wpon,  he  knew  nothing.  And 
that  he  himfelfe  intended,  accompanied  with  fome  of  his  owne  freinds, 
(for  his  grytter  fecuritie,)  to  have  fupplicated  the  Committy  of  Eftates  for 
the  lyke  liberty ;  but  without  any  purpofe  of  joyneing  with  them  in  that 
declaration,  or  thefe  their  hoftile  ads.  And  lykewyfe  he  declared,  that 
in  his  purpofe  of  fupplicating  for  the  foirfaid  liberty,  he  was  very  farr 
from  the  leaft  thoght  of  intending  or  indevoring  any  thing  prejudiciall  to 
the  caufe  of  God,  or  any  perfone,  or  judicatorie  whatfomewer. 

The  Prelbyterie  takeing  the  fame  to  their  confideration,  and  not  find 
ing  it  poffible  to  get  further  cleiring  in  it,  and  being  defyrous  to  have  the 
fcandal  of  this  acceffioun  to  the  foirfaid  finfull  courfes  taken  away,  doe 
ordein  his  Lordfhip  to  mak  a  publik  declaration  of  his  repentance  for  his 
wnfeafonable  and  fcandalous  going  to  Dundey,  to  attend  or  follow  the 
Kings  Majeflie  when  he  had  deferted  the  publik  Cownfell ;  as  alfo,  to 
mak  a  publik  declaration  of  his  repentance  for  his  finfull  and  fcandalous 
correfponding  with  any,  or  a&ing  any  thing  himfelffe,  (though  intending 
nothing  but  to  fupplicat,  as  faid  is,)  toward  the  drawing  of  his  or  their 
freinds  together,  to  countenance  or  joyne  in  the  lyke  fupplication,  not 


MARCH  1651.  OF  CUPAR.  163 

haveing  any  lawfull  calling  or  power  fo  to  doe.  And  this  to  be  done  in 
the  kirk  of  Sires  the  nixt  Lords  day,  or  if  peremptory  commands  neceffitat 
him  to  goe  any  wher  ells  before  that  tyme,  in  that  cace  ordeines  him  to 
doe  it  in  the  kirk  of  Cupar  to  morrow  after  fermon. 

March  6. — This  day,  Mr.  Patrik  Scougall  came  from  the  Prefbyterie  of 
San6tandros  for  correfpondence  anent  the  oppreffioun  and  profanity  of  the 
fouldiers,  defyring  that  the  Prefbyterie  wold  fend  fome  of  their  number 
to  the  Committy  of  the  ftiyre  now  fitting,  to  requyre  them  concurre  with 
the  Prefbyteries  in  iupplicatting  his  Majeftie  and  Committy  of  Eftates  for 
redreffing  of  the  faid  infolencies ;  wherwnto  they  condifcended,  and  ap 
pointed  that  ewery  brother  fhowld  try  in  their  Seffiounes  what  they  cowld 
find,  and  improve  liifficiently. 

March  10. — The  whilk  day,  a  meitting  being  appointed  for  giveing  in 
the  complaints  againft  the  foldiers ;  as  alfo,  for  falling  wpon  overtures 
for  provyding  for  minifters  put  from  their  charges  by  the  enemy ;  their 
being  prefent  Mrs.  David  Dalgleifhe,  William  Row,  William  Livingftoun, 
Johne  Litlejohne,  David  Orme ;  elders,  CarQogy  and  Nicol  Maxwell,  they 
appoint  Mr.  William  Row  and  Mr.  William  Livingftoun  to  goe  to  the  Com 
mitty  of  the  fhyre  now  fitting,  to  defyre  them  concurre  in  fupplicatting  his 
Majeftie  and  Committy  of  Eftates,  for  redreffing  thefe  infolencies  :  They 
did  returne,  and  reported  they  wold.  Mr.  David  Reatt  is  appointed  to 
correfpond  with  San6tandros  Prefbyterie  for  thefe  effe&s. 

March  20. — This  day,  Mr.  Johne  Makgill  elder,  reprefents  to  the  Prelby- 
terie,  that  it  is  reported  a  combat  to  be  intendit  betuixt  Pittachup  and 
Andrew  Lefly.  It  is  appointed  that  they  ihalbe  fummoned  to  appeir  be 
fore  the  Prelbyterie  the  nixt  day ;  and  for  that  effe6t,  a  lettre  is  ordeined 
to  be  wrettin  to  the  minifter  of  Forgon,  to  caufe  fummond  Major  Lefly. 

This  day,  their  is  a  reference  from  the  Commiffioun  of  the  Kirk  anent 
receiving  of  my  Lord  Canmoir  his  declaration  of  repentance  for  his  ac- 
ceffioun  to  the  Engadgement,  and  fornication.  He  is  remitted  bak  to 
the  Commiffioun. i 

1  "  1651,  Apryl  6. — This  day,  the  Vicount  of  Kenmuir  his  repentance  was  ressauit  befor 
the  pulpit  on  his  knees ;  and  gaue  full  satisfactioune,  according  to  the  order  of  the  General] 
Assembly,  publictly  read  be  the  minister." — Kirk  Sess.  Rec.  of  Cupar. 


164  THE  PRESBYTERY  MAY  1651. 

March  27- — This  day,  Johne  Blyth,  being  fummond,  appeirs  before  the 
Prefbyterie  ;  being  afked,  if  he  did  fend  a  cartall  to  Major  Andrew  Lefly  ? 
denyed  it.  He  is  fummond,  apud  a£ta,  to  appeir  before  the  Prefbyterie 
this  day  15  dayes.  He  is  alfo  defyred  to  abftein  from  any  hoftile  way  till 
that  tyine ;  whilk  he  did  promyfe,  and  two  brether,  Mrs.  Johne  Makgill 
and  Andrew  Bennett  ar  appointed  to  deall  with  him  for  that  effed. 

Maij  1. — This  day,  Mr.  Alexander  Wedderburne  came  from  the  Prefby 
terie  of  San&andros  for  correfpondence,  fliowing  that  the  brether  of  that 
Prefbyterie  had  liberally  contribute  for  their  diftrefled  brether  in  Lawthian, 
put  from  ther  charges,  defyreing  the  Prefbyterie  to  doe  the  lyke.  Whilk 
the  Prefbyterie  did  heartily  aggree  to,  and  ordeined,  that  ewery  brother 
fhould  bring  in  with  him  the  nixt  day  the  proportion  condifcended  wpon. 

The  reiding  of  the  Warnings  is  delayed  till  the  printed  copies  come  to 
our  hands.  This  day,  the  feverall  brethren  being  pofed  anent  their  judge 
ment  in  relation  to  the  publik  refolutiones  of  the  Kirk,  Mr.  Johne  Mak 
gill  profefTed  himfelff  fcrupled  withfome  thinges  in  the  publik  refolutiones. 
The  brethren,  being  defyrous  to  reafon  with  him  either  to  receive  or  hold 
out  light,  werre  at  laft  moved  to  delay  the  conference  till  after  the  enfew- 
ing  meitting  at  Kirkaldy ;  fo  much  the  rather,  becaus  they  had  not  re 
ceived  the  printed  copys  of  the  late  Warning,  with  the  which  efpecialy 
he  profeffed  himfelfe  to  be  fcrupled. 

Maij  22. — This  day,  the  Prefbyterie  received  a  lettre  from  the  Com 
miffioun  anent  a  voluntar  loan,  or  giveing  of  money  for  fufteining  the 
army ;  as  alfo,  they  received  a  Warning  from  the  Commiffioun  of  the 
Generall  Aflembly.  They  ar  appointed  to  be  red  in  the  feverall  kirks. 

Junij  1 2. — The  whilk  day,  William  Birrell  produced  the  decreett  of  the 
CommifTariot  againft  his  father  and  mother,  for  not  contenting  to  his 
mariage ;  as  alfo,  he  produced  the  a&  of  the  Seffioun  of  Falkland,  fliowing 
his  fatiffaftion  for  his  fornication  committed  with  Agnes  Ramfay,  fhe 
having  fatiffied  alfo,  as  the  a&  beares :  wherupon  the  Prefbyterie  doth 
appoint  Mr.  William  Livingftoun  to  marie  the  faids  perfones. 

The  whilk  day,  the  Prefbyterie  haveing  received  ane  ordinance  from  the 
Commiffioun  of  the  Kirk,  appointing  our  reverend  brother  Mr.  David 
Reatt,  minifter  at  Darfy,  to  repair  to  the  army,  ther  to  attend  my  Lord 


OCT.  1652.  OF  CUPAR.  165 

the  Earle  of  Crawfuird  his  regement,  for  the  fpace  of  three  monethes  nixt 
enfewing,  doe,  by  thefe  prefents,  fecond  and  confirme  the  faid  ordinance  of 
the  Commiffioun,  and  authorize  our  foirfaid  brother  to  repair  to  the  foir- 
faid  regement,  and  ther  to  performe  all  minifteriall  dewties  to  all  and 
ewerie  one,  officiars  and  foldiers  therof.  Lykas,  wee  doe  earneftly  and 
heartily  recommend  our  foirfaid  brother  wnto  the  kyndneffe  and  chriftian 
care  of  the  foirfaid  noble  Lord,  and  remanent  officiars  and  foldiers  of  the 
faid  regement,  heartily  exhorting  them  in  the  Lord,  not  only  to  yeeld 
wnto  him  hearty  and  cheerfull  obedience  in  the  difcharge  of  his  miniftrie, 
but  alfo,  to  fie  that  he  be  honeftly  provyded  for  in  all  thinges  neceflare  for 
his  outrek  and  confortable  abode  among  them ;  and  that  they  be  carefull 
tymoufly  to  provyde  for  his  releiife,  that  our  foirfaid  brother,  haveing  ferved 
among  them  the  tyme  appointed,  may  be  fafe  and  found  returned  to  his 
charge  among  us. 

Julij  3. — This  day,  the  Prelbyterie  received  a  letter  from  the  Juftice- 
deput  anent  James  Cambell  his  bigamy,  fhowing  that  to  his  gryt  regrate, 
according  to  the  law  of  the  kingdome,  the  punifliment  of  bigamy  is  not 
capital!,  butpcena  arbitraria ;  wherwith  the  Prelbyterie  is  heighly  difpleafed. 
The  faid  James  is  appointed  ftill  to  be  keiped  in  firmance. 

Auflujl  28. — This  day,  the  Prefbyterie  againe  takeing  to  ther  conlidera- 
tion  the  vyle  and  horrid  murther  committed  by  Johne  Heburne  of  Athur- 
ftane,  in  killing  James  Laing,  fervant  to  the  Laird  of  Rankilor  Makgill 
younger,  as  is  confefled  by  the  faid  Laird  of  Atherftane,  in  his  lettre 
writtin  to  the  Prelbyterie ;  the  Prefbyterie,  after  due  and  grave  delibera 
tion  anent  the  faid  mater,  and  considering  the  many  weighty  aggravateing 
circumftances  of  that  murther,  doe,  for  the  atrocity  of  that  fa6b,  ordeine 
the  faid  Johne  Heburne  of  Atherftane  to  be  fummarlie  excommunicatt  by 
Mr.  Alexander  Balfour  in  the  kirk  of  Ebdy,  in  the  whilk  parifh  the  faid 
murther  was  committed,  as  the  faid  Laird  of  Atherftane  was  travaileing  by 
the  way,  wpon  the  nixt  Lords  day,  being  the  31  of  Aguft. 

Logy,  Maij  6,  1652. — [Mr.  Henry  Pitcairne  admitted  minifter  there.] 

O&ober  21. — The  whilk  day,  no  exercife,  in  refpeft  the  Inglifhes  did 
imped  thefe  that  werre  to  exercife. 

November  16. — The  whilk  clay,  Mr.  Andrew  Anderfon  re  prefents  to  the 


166  THE  PRESBYTERY  MAY  1653. 

Prefbyterie  the  fadd  condition  of  his  fchoole,  his  fcholers  going  abroad 
on  the  Saboth ;  defyres,  therfor,  advife  what  he  fliould  do  in  that  cace. 
He  is  ordeined,  whill  they  want  preaching  in  the  kirk,  that  he  fliall  cate- 
chife  his  fcholers  on  the  Saboth,  inftru&ing  them  in  the  knowledge  of  God. 

Apryl  21,  1653. — Commiffions  Letter. — This  day  the  lettre  of  the  Com- 
miflioun  of  the  Generall  Aflemblie,  of  the  daitt  Feb.  21,  1653,  was  red; 
and  as  concerning  that  part  of  it  which  dothe  defyre  that  all  and  ewery 
one  of  our  number  who  find  our  parts  and  a&iones  mifreprefented  in 
the  book  intituled,  The  Nuttity  of  the  Generall  AJJenibly  at  San&andros  and 
Dundy  y  clear  therfelffes,  and  returne  a  clear  narration  of  ther  cariage  of  the 
truthe  of  the  particulars  in  wrett  with  the  firft  convenience,  or  at  the  fur- 
theft  to  the  Commiffioun  of  the  Generall  Aflembly,  at  the  nixt  meitting. 
The  Prefbyterie  delayes  till  this  day  15  dayes,  ordeining  the  brether  to 
advyfe  till  the  faid  day  anent  the  anfwere. 

The  brethren  prefent  declared,  that  they  had  keiped  the  faft,  and  red 
the  Caufes  which  werre  brought  to  them  in  the  lettre.  Only  Mr.  Johne 
Makgill  younger  declared,  he  had  keiped  the  faft,  but  did  not  reid  the 
Caufes,  becaufe  (as  he  conceived  them)  they  ar  generall,  ambiguous,  and 
defective.  Lykewyfe  Mr.  William  Row  declared,  he  had  keiped  the  faft 
wpon  the  authority  of  the  Commiffioun  of  the  Generall  Aflembly,  and 
wpon  thefe  Caufes  (as  he  conceived  them) ;  but  did  not  reid  the  paper  con- 
teineing  thefe  caufes,  becaufe  of  fome  generall  and  ambiguous  expreffions. 

Monemett,  Maij  12. — The  whilk  day,  the  a&  was  prelented.  It  was 
afked  the  brether  anent  the  A&  of  the  Generall  Aflembly  at  San&andros 
and  Dundy,  of  the  daitt  at  Dundy  Julij  31,  1651,  Sefs.  19,  antemeridiem, 
appointing  Expectants  to  declare  themfelffs. 

The  queftion  being  ftated,  Whither  prefentlie  this  Aft  fhould  be  put  in 
execution  or  not  ?  It  was  caried  by  one  voice  only,  not.  Therfor  the 
brether  of  the  Prefbytery  therafter  concluded  by  voiceing,  that  it  Ihould 
be  referred  to  the  determination  of  the  Synod. 

Mr.  Laurence  Oliphant  defyres,  that  his  meaneing  anent  his  voiceing 
be  marked,  that  he  voiced  it  not  to  be  putt  in  execution  prefentlie,  was  in 
refpeft  it  fhould  be  referred  to  the  Commiflioun  of  the  Generall  Aflembly, 
and  noe  otherwyfe.  Mr.  Johne  Makgill  elder,  defyred  that  his  voice  be 


MAY  1653.  OF  CUPAR.  167 

noted  that  fame  way.  Mr.  Johne  Makgill  younger,  defyred  his  protefta- 
tion  againft  that  a6bs  being  made  life  of  as  a  rule  wherby  the  Prelbyterie 
fhould  walk ;  and  craved  a  double  of  the  a6t  of  the  Generall  Affembly,  that 
he  might  give  in  his  reafones.  Mr.  George  Thomfon,  Mr.  James  Wedder- 
burne,  Mr.  William  Row,  Mr.  William  Bethun  elder,  requyred  the  fame. 

Mr.  Walter  Greig  profeffed,  that  he  caried  fo  much  refpe&  to,  and  ex- 
pe6ted  fo  much  charity  from  the  Provinciall,  as  he  did  humbly  intreat,  that 
ther  wifdomes  might  be  pleafed  not  to  urge  the  execution  of  that  a6t  for 
the  prefent,  (in  refpeft  of  the  fadd  eftate  of  the  tymes,)  wherwith  he  can 
not  in  confcience  goe  along,  for  the  reafones  that  he  lhall  fhew  in  tyme 
and  place  convenient. 

The  anfwer  of  the  lettre  of  the  Commiffioun  of  the  Generall  Affembly 
is  drawn  up,  red  before  the  Prefbyterie,  and  appointed  to  be  fubfcryved, 
and  infert  in  the  Minutts ;  the  tenor  therof  followes. 

RIGHT  REVEREND, 

HAVEING  taken  to  our  serious  thoughts  your  lettre  directed  to  ws  at  your  last  meit- 
ting,  and  finding,  besyde  many  other  dovvtes  relateing  to  the  puhlik  gud  of  the  Kirk,  theirin  to 
ws  recommended,  the  performance  wherof  wee  resolve,  in  the  Lords  strenth,  to  endeawour, 
that  more  particularly  wee  ar  desyred  to  cleir  ourselffes  of  what  wee  find  misrepresented,  as 
concerning  our  parts  and  actions,  in  that  hook  entituled, "  The  Nullity  of  the  pretended  Assembly 
at  Sanctandros  and  Dundy ;"  and  to  returne  to  you  a  cleir  narration  of  our  cariage,  and  of  the 
truthe  of  particulars  in  our  electioun  of  Commissioners  of  that  venerable  Assembly,  wee  shall 
say  no  further  but  this,  that  our  electioun  was  free  and  wnanimous,  without  either  protestation 
or  dissent  to  the  contrair.  And  as  for  that  lettre  of  the  Commissioun  1650,  so  much  talked  of, 
be  pleased  to  know,  that  it  was  so  farr  from  haveing  any  influence  wpon  ws  in  the  makeing  of  that 
electioun,  that  it  came  not  to  our  hands  till  fourteen  dayes  therafter.  Thus,  humbly  desyreing 
the  Lord  to  direct  yow  in  his  work,  and  wishing  yow  to  endevour  to  keip  the  unity  of  the 
Spiritt  in  the  band  of  peace,  We  ar 

Your  loveing  Brethren  in  Chryst, 
Cupar,  May  19,  1653.  THE  PRESBYTERIE  OF  CUPAR. 

(Directed  thus) 

To  the  Moderator  and  remanent  Members  of  the  Commissioun  of  the  Generall  Assembly,  1652. 
Mr.  Johne  Makgill  younger  declared,  that  he  was  not  cleir  to  vote  in 


168  THE  PRESBYTERY  OCT.  1653. 

that  lettre,  being  wnfatiffied  with  fome  things  that  was  in  the  Commifliouns 
letter.  Mr.  James  Wedderburne  declared,  that  he  did  adher  to  the  pro- 
teftation  againft  the  AfTembly ;  therfore  wold  not  vote  to  the  lettre. 

July  7. — The  whilk  day,  the  Laird  of  Collerny,  with  Mr.  William  Be- 
thune,  gave  in  ane  add  to  the  reafones  given  in  formerly  againft  Mr. 
William  Cochran  his  ele&ioun  to  be  minifter  at  Creich,  as  followes :  Wee 
add  this  evidence  of  Mr.  William  Cochran  his  imprudencie  and  wnchari- 
tablenefle  (to  lay  no  worfe),  as  was  reported  wnto  ws,  that,  on  a  day  in 
Kirkaldy,  feing  Mr.  Samuel  Rutherfuird  pafling  by  him,  he  faid,  If  ther 
be  a  debatched  knave  in  Scotland  ther  is  one ;  diftortum  vultum  Jequitur 
diftortia  morum.  For  cleiring  of  this  yee  may  enquyre  Mr.  Anthony 
Murray,  ftudent  of  divinity,  Mr.  Johne  Malcom,  fcholmafter  in  Kirkaldy, 
Johne  Buchan  do&or,  and  Johne  Fuird  ther.  Being  pofed  anent  that  par 
ticular  relateing  to  Mr.  Samuel  Rutherfuird,  denyed  it  fimpliciter. 

Auguft  11. — The  whilk  day,  fome  brether  waited  for  a  full  meitteing  of 
the  Prefbyterie,  they  werre  commanded  to  difperfe  by  fome  Inglifhes, 
(haveing,  as  they  faid,  ane  ordor  for  that  effed ;)  againft  which  encroach 
ment  wpon  the  right  and  priviledge  of  Prefbyteries,  the  brethren  prefent, 
to  witt,  Mr.  James  Wedderburne,  Mr.  David  Orme,  Mr.  Johne  Alexander, 
Mr.  William  Row,  Mr.  Johne  Makgill  younger,  and  Mr.  Henry  Pitcairne, 
and  the  Laird  of  Collerny,  ruleing  elder,  did  proteft ;  and  that,  notwith- 
ftanding,  it  might  be  free  for  ws  to  meitt  in  our  Prefbyteries  for  thofe 
thinges  that  concerne  the  glory  of  God,  and  the  good  of  thofe  people 
fowles  within  our  bounds,  according  to  the  word  of  God,  and  the  a&s  of 
the  Generall  Aflemblie. 

O£tober  6. — The  whilk  day,  Mr.  James  Martin  defyred  advyce  of  the 
Prefbyterie  anent  Thomas  Brown  and  Ifobel  Gilmour  in  his  paroche, 
maried  by  Mr.  Alexander  Cornwell,  a  depofed  minifter,  and  alledged  ex- 
communicat,  whofe  teftimoniall  for  the  foirfaid  mariage  he  produced,  What 
fhould  be  done  with  them  for  the  contempt  of  the  ordor  of  our  Kirk,  and 
the  baptifeing  of  ther  children  begotten  in  fornication  ?  The  Prefbyterie 
appointed  ther  children  to  be  baptifed,  they  finding  caution  to  fatiffy  the 
Kirk  in  whatfoever  cenfure  fhalbe  enjoyned ;  and  refolves  to  advyfe  of 
ther  cenfure  afterward. 


OCT.  1654.  OF  CUPAR.  169 

Monemett,  December  29. — The  whilk  day,  Mr.  Johne  Alexander  craveth 
advyce  anent  the  baptifeing  of  a  chyld  whofe  parents  ar  lying  wnder  cen- 
fure  for  ignorance.  The  Prefbyterie  advyfeth  the  minifter  to  deall  with 
the  parents  to  mak  them  fenfible,  and  then  baptize  ther  barne. 

February  2,  1654. — Ther  was  this  day  a  procefle  of  the  Seffioun  of 
Newburgh,  anent  Kathrin  Key  being  fcandalized  for  witchcraft ;  and  be- 
caufe  of  the  minifters  fickneffe  who  had  it  to  revife,  it  being  fent  againe 
to  the  Prefbyterie,  it  is  given  to  Mr.  James  Wedderburne  to  revife. 

Monemett,  Junij  1. — Anent  Johne  Reids  mater  concerning  privat  Com 
munion,  it  is  delayed  till  the  nixt  day. 

Junij  24. — Thomas  Hey  being  called,  compeirs,  who,  being  fworne,  de 
poned,  that  he  heard  Margaret  Gilmour  fay  no  more,  but  that  Johne  Reid 
gave  them  a  foup  watter  round  about,  with  many  good  words  to  it. 

Johne  Elder  deponed,  that  he  heard  Margaret  Gilmour  fay,  that  Johne 
Reid  gave  a  drink  of  water  and  a  bitt  bread. 

Chriftian  Thomfon,  being  fworne,  deponed,  that  Johne  Reid  did  not  give 
any  bread,  but  fought  a  blifleing  to  the  water,  but  afked  how  Jean  Bal- 
cankquall  did. 

September  7- — Anent  David  Wentoun,  adulterer,  in  the  parifh  of  New- 
burgh,  haveing  fitten  in  the  place  of  repentance  a  yeir,  and  not  received 
becaufe  of  his  ignorance  and  infenfibleneffe  of  his  guiltinefle  and  falleing  in 
fornication  ;  the  mater  of  his  excommunication  is  referred  to  the  Provin- 
ciall  for  advyfe. 

Monemett,  OStober  12. — This  day,  the  a6t  of  the  Provinciall  anent  refor 
mation  of  Seffiouns,  elders,  and  families,  for  advancing  the  work  of  God, 
was  red.  And  it  is  appointed,  that  the  Prefbyterie  (hall  meitt  at  Mone- 
mell  on  Twefday  the  1 7  of  this  inftant,  and  to  fpend  the  whole  day  in 
conference,  praying  and  failing,  as  they  fhall  think  expedient. 

October  19. — The  Prefbyterie  being  fadly  weghted  with  the  report  of 
the  continwance,  and  exhorbitant  and  unneceffarly  numerous  confluences 
of  people  at  pennie  brydles,  and  of  inexpedient  and  wnlawfull  pypeing 
and  dancing  at  the  fame,  fo  fcandalous  and  finfull  in  this  tyme  of  our 
Churches  lamentable  conditioun  ;  and  being  apprehenfive  that  minifters 
and  Kirk  Seffiouns  have  not  bein  fo  vigilant  and  aftive  (as  neid  werre), 

Y 


170  THE  PRESBYTERY  MAY  1655. 

for  reprefling  of  thefe  diforders,  doe  therfor  moft  ferioufly  recommend  to 
minifters  and  Kirk  Seffiouns  to  reprefle  the  fame. 

December  1 4. — Mr.  Walter  Greig  preached  at  Cuper,  and  the  Prefby- 
terie  and  parifh  being  frequently  mett,  Mr.  Johne  Makgill  was  folemnelie 
a<lmitted  to  the  miniflrie  in  that  place  according  to  order. 

March  22,  1 655. — This  day,  Lievetennent  Crofman,  ane  Inglifliman,  ap 
peared  before  the  Prefbyterie,  and  did  raife  the  fame,  whempon  Mr. 
Johne  Makgill,  in  name  of  adherers,  did  proteft,  and  all  prefent  did  adher. 

April  12. — Mr.  Johne  Makgill  younger  reprefented  to  the  Prelbyterie 
that  proteftation  entered  March  22,  the  tenor  wherof  followes : 

WHILL  tlic  Prcsbyterie  being  mett  at  the  ordinary  tyme,  and  in  the  ordinary  place,  was  con 
sulting  about  reviseing  the  Acts  of  the  last  half  yeir,  that  the  register  might  be  in  readiriesse 
against  the  Provinciall  Asscmblie,  Lievetennent  Crosman  (ane  Inglishman)  told  \vs  that  the 
meittcing  of  the  Provinciall  was  forbidden,  and  forthwith  went  away,  and  within  ane  hour 
after  came  bak  againe,  and  commanded  the  Prcsbyteriall  meittcing  to  rysc  and  disperse  till 
further  order ;  which  the  Brethren  resolved  to  obey.  But  withall,  Mr.  Johne  Makgill  pro 
tested  against  the  encroachment  made  wpon  the  liberties  of  our  Kirk  Judicatories,  which  hold 
of  Jesus  Chryst  himselfe,  and  ar  not  subordinate  to  any  civile  or  military  power  whatsoever. 
And  that  notwithstanding  it  may  be  frie  to  us  to  meett  in  our  respective  Judicatories  in  a 
peaceable  maner  about  the  effairs  of  the  Church  of  Chryst,  within  the  bownds  of  our  charge, 
as  necessity  requyres,  when  and  whcr  the  Lord  in  his  good  providence  should  give  us  oppor 
tunity  and  a  call.  And  this  wee  doe  not  out  of  humourousnesse  or  turbulcncie  of  spirit  ;  but 
that  wee  may  approve  our  selffes  to  God  in  our  station,  by  asserting  of,  and  beareing  testimony 
unto  the  government,  liberties,  and  privileges  of  the  Church  of  Jesus  Chryst,  and  Judicatories 
therof,  (according  to  the  word  of  God,  and  the  bonds  of  our  sacred  and  solemne  Covenant), 
which  to  us  ar  so  pretiouse  that  wee  darr  not  be  consenting  unto,  nor  silent  at  any  thing  which 
directly,  or  by  consequence,  may  be  prejudicial!  unto  them. 

Mr.  JAMES  WBDDEHBURNE, 
WILLIAM  Row,  adhere. 

May  3. — Mr.  David  Orme  reports,  that  he,  with  Mr.  Alexander  Bal- 
four,  had  delt  with  Katharin  Key,  and  found  hir  fenfible  of  hir  guiltinefle 
of  curfing  hir  minifter.  The  minifter  is  appointed  to  intimat  to  the  parifli 
if  any  had  any  thing  concerning  witchcraft  to  obje&,  that  they  come  to 
the  Seffioun,  and  give  it  in ;  and  if  nothing  be  found  of  that  kynd,  fhe 
fliall  declare  hir  repentance  in  the  publid  place  of  repentance,  for  curfing. 

A  reference  from  the  Seffioun  of  Falkland  to  the  Prefbyterie  was  pre- 


JUNE  1655.  OF  CUPAR.  171 

prefented,  craveing  ther  advyce,  What  fhould  be  done  with  a  man  that 
ftrikes  his  wyffc,  and  will  not  forbear  it  ?  The  Prefbyterie  finding  the 
buffinefle  of  common  concernement,  refolves  to  crave  advyce  of  other 
Preibyteries. 

Stramialo,  May  24. — Two  lettres  werre  prefented  that  day  to  the  Pref 
byterie,  one  from  the  Synod  of  Lawthian,  another  from  the  Proveft  and 
and  Uailyies  of  Edinburgh,  defyreing  a  contribution  for  the  help  of  fuch  as 
had  ther  howfes  brunt  ther.  The  Prefbyterie  refolves  to  reprefent  to  the 
feverall  Seffiouns  to  doe  accordingly.  And  delyvered  the  lettres  to  Mr. 
David  Fermer,  to  tranfmitt  them  to  the  Prefbyterie  of  Dumfermling. 

Junij  7. — The  whilk  day,  Mr.  Patrik  Peacock  being  requyred  to  de 
clare  himfelffe,  according  to  the  aft,  declares  as  followes : 

BEING  requyred  to  declare  myselffc,  according  to  the  Act  of  the  Asscmblie  at  Edinburgh,  I 
doe  declare,  that  it  is  my  desyre  that  everic  one  should  follow  peace,  and  study  the  laying  by 
all  debates  that  hinders  the  prospering  of  the  Lordis  work  in  this  Kirk,  and  that  it  is  my  pur 
pose,  in  the  Lordis  strenth,  to  doe  the  same.  But  finding  that  I  cannot  declare  my  selffe  ac 
cording  to  that  Act,  wnlesse  I  would  engadge  in  the  debates  now  in  hand,  which  I  suppose  is 
not  the  way  to  peace,  and  therfor  I  can  not  give  satisfactioun  as  is  requyred  according  to 
that  Act  as  it  stands  in  terminis. 

The  Prefbyterie  haveing  put  Mr.  Patrik  Peacok  to  declare  his  judge 
ment  according  to  the  a£t  of  the  Aflemblie  at  Edenburgh,  and  received  his 
anfwer ;  Mr.  Johne  Makgill  defyred  the  Prefbyterie  to  coniider,  Whither 
a  young  man,  refolveing  to  be  peaceable,  and  forbeareing  to  engadge  in 
debates  in  a  tyme  when  the  Church  is  fo  fadly  rent  and  divided,  and 
wifheing  debates  that  hinder  the  profperitie  of  the  work  of  God  in  the 
Church  werre  layd  afyde,  without  declareing  his  judgement  pro  or  contra 
in  matters  contraverted,  whither,  I  fay,  that  does  not  evidence  fuch  a 
peaceable  difpofition  and  purpofe  as  dothe  fuite  the  duty  of  young  men  in 
a  divided  and  rent  Church.  And  without  prejudice  to  his  laft  protefta- 
tion,  defyres  the  Prefbyteries  fenfe  therof. 

It  being  voiced,  whither,  firft,  Mr.  Patrik  his  anfwer,  or  this  motion 
fhould  be  confidered.  It  was  concluded,  that  wee  fhould  firft  confider  Mr. 
Patrik  his  anfwer. 

It  being  voiced,  whither  the  paper  given  in  by  Mr.  Patrik  be  a  declara 
tion  fatiffa6tory  ?  It  was  concluded,  that  it  was  not  fatiffa&ory. 


172  THE  PRESBYTERY  JULY  1655. 

Mr.  Johne  Makgill,  Mr.  James  Wcdderburne,  Mr.  Walter  Greig,  Mr. 
George  Thomefon,  minifters,  with  Collerny,  Laflftoun,  Henry  Corby, 
elders,  declared  they  could  not  voice,  but  defyred  to  adher  to  the  diflent 
and  proteftation. 

Mr.  William  Livingftoun  and  Mr.  James  Martin,  ar  appointed  to  deall 
with  Mr.  Patrik  for  informeing  him  anent  the  equitie  of  the  Ad  of  the 
Aflemblie  concerneing  young  mens  entrie,  and  to  meet  at  Newburgh  on 
Monday  for  that  effe&,  and  to  report. 

The  motione  proponed  be  Mr.  Johne  Makgill,  is  appointed  to  be  further 
confidered  untill  the  nixt  day,  and  that  then  ane  anfwer  fliall  be  given 
to  it. 

Junij'21. — This  day,  the  brethren  appointed  to  deall  with  Mr.  Patrik 
Peacok,  for  informeing  him  anent  the  equitie  of  the  Ad,  reported  that 
they  had  conferred  with  him,  according  to  the  appointment  of  the  Prelby- 
terie,  and  endevoured  to  fatiffie  him,  but  prevailed  not. 

The  Prelbyterie,  after  deliberation  upon  the  queftion  proponed  by  Mr. 
Johne  Makgill,  doe  put  the  matter  to  a  vote,  and  it  was  caried  equally, 
the  one  half  of  the  Prelbyterie  voteing  for  the  affirmative,  and  the  other 
half  for  the  negative,  (the  Moderator  not  voiceing.)  The  Prelbyterie, 
takeing  'the  foirfaid  particular  to  confideration,  thoght  fitting  to  referre 
the  famine  to  the  Provinciall  Aflemblie  enfewing. 

Julij\2. — Mr.  Patrik  Peacok  being  enquyred,  If  he  had  fubfcryved  the 
Proteftation  againft  the  late  Aflemblie  of  the  Church  ?  Declared,  that  he 
had  not  fubfcryved  the  Proteftation.  As  alfo,  being  requyred  to  promyfe 
and  give  aflurance,  that  he  fliall  abftaine  from  holding  up  debattes  and 
contraverlies  about  matter  of  difference  in  this  Church  lince  the  Aflem 
blie  1650,  in  preacheing,  wretting,  or  otherwyfe  :  The  faid  Mr.  Patrik 
did  promyfe  and  give  aflurance,  that  he  Ihould  abftaine  from  holding  up 
debattes  and  contraverfies  about  matters  of  difference  in  this  Church, 
fince  the  Aflemblie  [16]50,  in  preacheing,  writting,  or  otherwyfe.  Upon 
this  ground  Mr.  Patrik  was  appointed  to  add  as  the  firft  part  of  his  tryells. 

Mr.  Johne  Makgill  defyres  that  it  might  be  remembred,  that  he  ad 
hered  to  his  fenfe  of  the  overture  given  in  to  the  Synod,  being  of  nothing 
more  defyrous  then  young  mens  frie  entrie  to  the  miniftrie,  and  peaceable 


MARCH  1656.  OF  CUPAR.  173 

behaviour  in  reference  to  contraverfies  when  they  ar  in  the  miniftrie. 
And  this  being  alwayes  fein  to,  I  fhould  be  fatiffied  not  to  owne  any  pro- 
teftation  made  formerly  againft  (as  he  conceived)  fome  intended  incroch- 
ings  therupon. 

December  27. — This  day,  Mr.  Johne  Rig  prefented  a  lettre  from  my 
Lord  Burghley,  craveing  the  advyce  of  the  Prefbyterie,  if  any  might  be 
buried  within  his  Ifle.  The  Prefbyterie  judges  that  ther  can  be  no  buriall 
ther,  it  being  a  publik  place  of  hearing  the  Word. 

Februar  7,  1656. — This  day,  ane  delegat  from  the  Inglifh  Commiffioners 
defyred  to  have  a  notte  of  all  the  ftipends  which  had  wacked  fince  the 
yeir  1651.  The  Prefbyterie,  being  very  unfrequent,  and  the  ordinary 
Moderator  abfent,  and  the  Clerk  declareing  that  the  book  was  not  filled 
up,  and  the  minutts  not  all  at  hand,  entreated  the  gentlemans  patience 
whill  ther  book  be  filled  up.  The  Clerk  is  appointed  to  fill  it  up  with  all 
convenient  diligence. 

Februar  21. — It  is  voiced,  whither  the  Prelbyterie  fhould  declare  againft 
the  erefting  anew  againe  any  Commiffioun  which  had  its  authority  from 
the  Generall  AfTemblie  1650?  The  Prefbyterie  appoints  a  declaration  to 
be  drawne  up  by  Mr.  David  Orme,  Mr.  Alexander  Balfour,  and  Mr. 
William  Livingftoun. 

This  day,  Nicolas  Merfhall  and  Jean  Kede,  who  had  bein  maried  by 
Mr.  Alexander  Cornwell,  a  depofed  excommunicat  minifter,  contrair  to 
the  ordor  of  our  Kirk,  ar  appointed  by  the  Prefbyterie,  for  removeing  of 
the  fcandall,  to  fitt  before  the  pulpitt  of  Falkland  all  the  tyme  of  divine 
fervice  one  dyett,  and  therafter  declare  ther  repentance  for  that  ther  un- 
lawfull  procedor ;  and  that  Mr.  William  Livingftoun,  haveing  layd  out 
ther  fault  to  the  Congregation,  doe  caufe  them,  by  joyneing  of  ther  hands, 
engadge  themfelffes  by  the  mariage  oath,  the  one  to  the  other,  for  per- ' 
formance  of  the  mariage  duties  dureing  the  reft  of  ther  lyfetyme  heirafter. 

Martij  6. — Mr.  William  Livingftoun  craveth  advyfe,  What  cenfure 
fhalbe  infli&ed  upon  thefe  that  ftrike  ther  wyffes  ?  It  is  referred  to  the 
Provincial!,  being  of  common  concernement. 

The  Declaration  againft  the  ere6ting  of  that  Commiffioun  anew,  haveing 
its  ground  from  the  Generall  Aflemblie  1 650,  the  draught  wherof  was  red 


174  THE  PRESBYTERY  MARCH  1656. 

before  the  Prefbyterie  and  approven.     But  Mr.  Walter  Greig,  Johne 
Makgill,  William  Row,  James  Wedderburne,  werre  not  cleir ;  and  Mr. 
Johne  Makgill  defyred  his  diflent  to  be  marked  from  that  draught,  and 
promyfed  to  give  in  his  reafones  in  due  tyme. 
The  tenor  of  the  foirfaid  Declaration  followis : 

THE  Presbyterie  being  certainly  informed,  that  some  Ministers  and  vthers  in  this  Kirk  have 
of  late  erected  a  Committie,  with  publict  authoritic  above  and  over  all  the  Congregationes, 
Presbyteries,  and  Synods,  of  the  Kirk  in  tliis  land,  which  is  by  the  said  Ministers  pretended 
to  be  the  Committie  for  publict  effairs,  appointed  and  authorized  by  the  Generall  Assembly 
holden  at  Edenburgh  1650;  and  considering  that,  besides  that,  the  Ministers  and  others  afoir- 
said  have  not  the  original!  Commission  granted  to  that  Committie  by  the  said  Assemblie,  nor 
to  our  knowledge  so  much  as  any  authentick  double  therof ;  and  consequently  knoweth  neither 
the  persons  of  whom  that  Committie  was  constitute,  nor  what  matters  werre  committed  unto 
them,  nor  what  power  was  granted  to  them ;  considering,  wee  say,  besides  this,  that  all  Com 
missions  granted  be  the  said  Assemblie  1650,  did  expyre  and  become  void  for  afterward,  at 
the  meitteing  and  sitting  of  the  following  Generall  Assemblie  at  Sanctandros,  in  the  year  1651  ; 
and  particularly,  that  the  Commission  granted  to  the  foirsaid  Committie  for  publict  affairs  was 
by  the  Moderator,  and  greatter  part  of  the  members  therof,  delyvered  and  rendered  up  to  that 
followeing  Generall  Assemblie  at  Sanctandros  : — The  Presbyterie  dothe  find,  and  heirby  de 
clares,  that  the  erecting  of  such  a  Committie  with  publict  authoritie,  (which  no  Kirk  judicatour 
inferior  to  Generall  Assemblies  can  doe,  let  be  privat  men,  such  as  these  Ministers,  and  others 
that  have  joyned  with  them  ar,)  to  be  a  most  presumptuous  usurpation  over  the  Church  of 
God  in  this  land,  and  the  judicatours  therof,  overturneing  the  established  governement  of  the 
Kirk,  setting  up  theirin,  and  above  the  judicatours  therof,  a  reall  prelaticall  power,  the  said 
pretended  Committie  not  being  accountable  to  any  of  the  present  judicatours  of  this  Kirk,  and 
being  to  continew  (according  to  the  intention  of  the  erectors  therof)  wntill  a  new  Generall 
Assemblie,  which  the  said  pretended  Committie  (should  it  be  permitted)  shall  have  power  to 
hinder  and  imped,  so  long  as  they  shall  think  expedient,  Who,  therfor,  may  prorogat  and 
propogat  their  usurped  authoritie  so  long  as  they  will ;  and  directly  and  positively  condemning 
these  two  late  Generall  Assemblies  at  Sanctandros  and  Dundie  1651,  and  Edenburgh  1652, 
as  wnlawfull,  and  no  Generall  Assembly,  tending  all  to  the  undoing  of  this  whole  Kirk  by  a 
woefull  and  remedilesse  schisme,  and  contrare  to  our  Nationall  Covenant,  and  to  the  Solemne 
League  and  Covenant.  And  therfor  the  Presbyterie,  finding  themselffes  bound  by  the  com- 
mandement  of  Jesus  Chryst,  the  covenant  and  oath  of  God,  to  endevour  in  ther  station,  and 
according  to  ther  calling,  the  preservation  of  religion  as  it  is  by  the  mercie  of  God  established 
amongst  us,  in  doctrine,  worship,  governement,  and  disciplin,  and  to  oppose,  in  so  fair  as  in 
them  lyeth,  everie  course  and  designe  tending  to  the  overturneing  of  the  same  in  any  Qway], 
whither  in  whole  or  in  part,  doe,  in  the  name  of  Jesus  Chryst,  obtest,  and  by  that  authoritie 


MAY  1656.  OF  CUPAR.  175 

whenvith  the  Lord  hes  endowed  them  within  his  house,  charge  and  requyre  all  Ministers  with 
in  ther  bounds,  that  none  of  them  presume  to  sitt  in  or  concurre  with  the  afoirsaid  pretended 
Committie,  or  any  Committie  whatsoever,  erected  without  the  authoritie  of  the  present  esta 
blished  judicatours  of  the  Kirk ;  or  to  doe  any  thing,  by  vertue  of  any  act  which  shall  hap 
pen  to  be  made  or  emitted  by  the  afoirsaid  pretended  Committie  or  Committies,  as  they  wilbe 
answerable  to  Jesus  Chryst,  and  to  the  Presbyterie  and  superior  judicatours  of  this  Kirk. 
Lykeas  in  the  same  manner,  they  doe  obtest  and  charge  all  professors  within  ther  bounds,  of 
whatsoever  rank  and  condition,  that  none  of  them  doe  acknowledge  the  said  pretended  Com 
mittie  or  Committies,  or  give  obedience  to  any  of  ther  citations,  acts,  or  constitutiones :  But,  on 
the  contrare,  that,  according  to  ther  severall  stations,  and  as  God  shall  call  them  and  give  oc 
casion,  that  they  doe  testify  ther  disallowance  of  ther  usurpation  ;  as  they  would  not  be  found 
accessory  to  such  disorderly  courses,  and  guilty  of  the  miseries  and  confusiones  that  therby 
may  come  wpon  this  Kirk,  and  would  not  incurre  the  censure  of  the  Kirk  due  to  such  offences. 
And,  finally,  ordeines  that  whatsoever  student  of  divinitie  shall  desyre  to  enter  upon  ther 
tryells  for  the  exercyse  of  ther  gifts,  and  whatsoever  expectants  ar  to  enter  upon  tryells  in  re 
lation  to  a  calling  to  the  ministrie  within  this  Presbyterie,  before  they  be  admitted,  or  entered 
upon  ther  tryells,  they  be  requyred  to  declare  ther  disallowance  of  the  said  pretended  Com 
mittie,  and  all  other  Committies  of  that  kynd  that  shall  happen  to  be  erected  in  that  manner ; 
and  to  promyse  that  they  shall  never  owne  them  as  lawfull  Committies  or  Judicaturs  of  this 
Kirk,  and  if  they  refuise  to  doe  the  same,  that  they  be  debarred  from  being  admitted  upon 
ther  tryells. 

Cults,  Maij  1. — [Mr.  George  Difhentoun  admitted  minifter  of  Cults.] 
Darjy,  Maij  22. — The  Moderator  propond  the  queftion  to  the  brethren 
and  elders  of  the  Prefbyterie  feverally,  Whither  or  not  they  knew  in  the 
bounds  of  this  Prefbyterie  any  minifters  or  elders  that  ar  probably  pre- 
fumde  to  be  infufficient  or  fcandalous ;  and  that,  as  they  would  be  anfwer- 
able  to  ther  Lord  and  Matter,  they  may  delate  the  fame,  to  the  end, 
that  if  any  fuch  be  given  up,  the  Prefbyterie  may  appoint  vifitationes 
for  tryell  and  cenfureing  the  fame,  according  to  the  order  prefcryved  in 
the  a6t  of  the  late  Synod,  concerneing  vifitationes. 

Mr.  Johne  Makgill  younger,  being  firft  in  order,  and  being  interrogat, 
gave  in  his  anfwere  in  paper,  as  followes  : — Mr.  Johne  Makgill  being  inter 
rogat  by  the  Moderator,  If  he  knew  any  of  his  brethren  infufficient  or 
fcandalous,  etc.  in  ther  miniftrie  and  converfation,  and  obtefted  to  declare 
what  he  knew,  as  he  wold  be  anfwerable  to  his  Lord  and  Mafler;  the 
faid  Mr.  Johne  defyred  the  Prefbyteries  refolution  firft,  before  he  could 
anfwere  to  ther  queftion  and  demand,  whither  he  might  frielie  delate 


176  THE  PRESBYTERY  JULY  1656. 

what  he  heard  concerneing  any  of  his  brethren  without  being  looked  upon 
as  rafh,  uncharitable,  etc.  or  held  obleiged  to  prove,  or  give  in  witnefies 
to  prove  delateing  what  he  had  heard. 

The  Prefbyterie,  haveing  refuifed  to  give  Mr.  Johne  Makgill  ane  an- 
fwere  to  his  queftione,  the  faid  Mr.  Johne  declared,  that  he  could  not 
otherwayes  anfwere  to  the  Prefbyteries  queftione  and  demand,  and  therfor 
behooved  to  withdraw  himlelffe  from  the  Prelbyterie  a&ing  any  thing  in 
that  buffinefie,  not  being  defyrous  or  cleir  to  be  involved  in  any  conclufion 
that  they  fliould  come  to  by  this  maner  of  procedor. 

The  Prelbyterie,  haveing  confidered  the  faid  queftione,  and  withall  re- 
membring  that  he  had  propond  it  before  to  the  Synod,  and  had  not  bein 
cleired,  for  any  thing  they  find  in  the  Synod  book,  did  refuife  to  folve  his 
queftione ;  wheirupon  the  faid  Mr  Johne  was  interrogat  againe,  and  de- 
fyred  to  anfwere  to  the  firft  and  maine  queftione ;  wherunto  he  gave  in, 
by  way  of  anfwere,  the  paper,  and  defyred  ane  extract,  which  was  ap 
pointed  to  be  given  him. 

Many  of  the  reft  of  the  brethren  anfwered  (being  feverally  interrogat), 
that  they  knew  none  of  ther  brethren  to  be  under  probable  prefumptiones 
of  infufficiencie  or  fcandell ;  and  others  werre  uncleir  for  the  prefent. 

Sires,  'Julij  1 7- — This  a  day,  a  reference  from  the  Seffioun  of  Cupar  is 
prefented  to  the  Prefbyterie,  craveing  advyce  what  fhalbe  done  with  thofe 
women  that  ar  dipped.  The  minifter  is  appointed,  with  two  or  three  el 
ders,  to  conferre  with  them,  and  to  report  the  nixt  day.  Correlpondents 
ar  appointed  to  be  fent  to  neighbouring  Prefbyteries,  Mr.  William  Row 
to  Sandandros,  and  Mr.  George  Difhentoun  to  Kirkaldy,  for  ther  advyce. 

Julij  21. — This  day,  the  Prefbyterie  mett  at  Cupar,  by  occafioun  of  a 
lettre  fent  from  the  Moderator  of  the  Synod  to  our  Moderator,  defyreing 
two  of  our  number  to  be  authorifed  to  attend  a  meitteing  of  correfpondents 
from  the  feverall  Prefbyteries  of  this  province,  at  Cupar  on  Thurefday 
nixt,  for  nominateing  of  two  to  goe  from  this  province  to  attend  the  meit 
teing  of  fome  minifters  (two  from  everie  province)  at  Edenburgh,  the  firft 
Weddenfday  of  Auguft  nixt,  anent  the  good  of  Religioun  againft  the  en 
croachment  of  Poperie,  which  is  judged  fitt,  yea  neceflary,  by  the  minifters 
of  Edenburgh  to  be  keiped.  The  brethren  falling  upon  the  buffinefle,  but, 


JAN.  1657.  OF  CUPAR.  177 

after  fome  debate  and  conference  upon  the  matter,  finding  themfelues 
not  cleir,  refolved  and  ordeined,  that  the  Prefbyterie  fhould  meett  on 
Thurefday  nixt,  that  they  may  have  information  from  correfpon dents  of 
other  Prefbyteries  for  ther  cleireing,  before  they  proceed  in  it.  And, 
becaufe  of  lofeing  much  tyme  by  two  dayes  meetteing  in  one  week,  ad- 
journes  the  nixt  meitting  of  our  Prelbyterie  after  Thurefday  till  that 
day  15  dayes,  being  the  7  of  Auguft ;  ordeineing  the  brethren  formerly 
appointed  to  exercife  and  add  that  day. 

Julij  24. — This  day,  the  Prefbyterie  mett  for  chufeing  two  brether,  (as 
was  formerly  appointed,)  the  brether,  not  being  cleir  the  former  day,  did 
adjourne  it  to  this  day;  abfents  Mr.  Alexander  Balfour,  Mr.  George 
Thomefon,  James  Wedderburne. 

The  queftione  being  ftated  thus,  Whither  the  end  of  our  chufeing  corre- 
fpondents  fhalbe  in  thefe  termes,  To  meett  at  Edenburgh,  the  firft  Wed- 
denfday  of  Auguft  nixt,  with  the  bretheren  commiffionat  from  the  reft  of 
the  province,  to  confult  for  the  good  of  religion  againft  the  encroachment 
of  Poperie  ?  It  was  concluded,  affirmative.  The  bretheren  did  chufe  Mr. 
David  Orme  and  Mr.  Alexander  Balfour  to  meett  with  the  correfpondents 
of  other  Prefbyteries  of  Fyiff  prefently  in  this  place,  for  the  end  above 
expreft.  From  which  whole  conclufion,  Mr.  Walter  Greig,  Mr.  Johne 
Makgill  diffented,  being  not  cleir. 

October  23. — Anabaptifts. — Anent  the  Anabaptifts  in  the  paroche  of 
Cuper,  in  regard  ther  was  ane  ordinance  from  the  Synod  relateing  to  them, 
and  the  Synod  book  was  not  prefent,  the  buffinefle  was  delayed  till  after 
ward. 

November  20. — Anabaptifts. — The  Prefbyterie  haveing  confidered  the  late 
a6t  of  the  Synod  of  Fyiffe  concerning  the  Anabaptift  women  within  the 
parifh  of  Cuper,  have  thoght  meett,  in  obedience  therto,  to  cite  them  to 
appear  before  them.  And  ordeines  the  kirk  officer  of  the  parifh  of  Cuper  to 
fummond  them,  to  wit,  Elfpet,  Ifobel,  and  Criftian  Millers,  to  appear  before 
the  Prefbyterie  the  nixt  day  of  meitteing,  being  the  4  of  December  enfewing. 
January  1,  1657- — Anabaptifts,  Elfpet,  Ifobel,  Chriftian  Millers. — This  day, 
Elfpet,  Ifobel,  and  Criftian  Millers,  appeares  before  the  Prefbyterie.  The 
Moderator  queftioned  them,  If  they  did  owne  ther  baptifme  in  ther  in- 

z 


178  THE  PRESBYTERY  MARCH  1657. 

fancie  ?  Anfweres,  that  they  did  not  owne  it.  2.  They  manteined,  that 
Chryft  died  for  all  intentionally.  3.  That  the  fowle  fleeps  with  the  body 
till  the  refurre&ion.  4.  That  Saints  and  true  believers  may  fall  away 
from  true  faveing  grace.  5.  That  the  decree  of  ele&ion  is  not  abfolute. 
They  grant  that  the  fpirit  of  God  is  irrefiftable :  which  tennets  werre 
contradi&orie.  They  are  appointed  to  be  conferred  with  by  Mr.  Johne 
Makgill  and  George  Thomefon. 

January  15. — The  Prefbyterie  finding  that  the  fmne  of  drukennefle 
ftill  abounds,  and  that  fome  dolefull  accidents  falls  out  upon  th'e  occafiones 
therafter,  and  yet  thefe  efcape  cenfure  who  ar  acceffory  to  the  drukennefie 
occafione  fuch  accidents,  It  is  appointed .  heirby,  that  thefe  who  have 
beene  acceffory  to  any  drukennefle  of  that  kynd  be  tryed,  and  be,  accord 
ing  to  the  degree  of  that  occafioun,  cenfured. 

February  26. — William  Thomefon,  Inglifhman,  appeares  before  the 
Prelbyterie,  and  confeffed  that  he  had  bein  ane  Anabaptift  formerly,  dothe 
now  difclaime  the  faid  Anabaptifine,  and  defyred  his  chyld  be  baptifed. 
The  Prefbyterie  refolves  to  remitt  him  to  the  Minifter  and  Seffioun  of 
Cuper  to  be  delt  with ;  and  in  the  mean  tyme  his  child  is  not  to  be  bap- 
tiied  till  he  be  fenfible  of  his  error. 

Martij  1 2. — A  cace  of  confcience  wes  proponed  to  the  Prefbyterie,  by 
Mr.  William  Livingftoun,  Whither  any  created  power  might  lawfullie  by 
judiciall  fentence  appoint  the  fonne  to  fcourge  his  mother,  and  fie  the 
fame  put  in  execution,  yea  or  nay  ?  The  Prelbyterie  anfwered,  negative ; 
profeffing  that  the  affirmative  was  bothe  horridc  and  contrare  to  the  law 
of  God  and  Nature. 

Anabaptijls. — Anent  the  Anabaptifts  women,  the  Prefbyterie  thinks 
[fitt]  to  fummond  them  to  appeare  before  the  Prefbyterie,  (according  to 
the  appointment  of  the  Provinciall,)  that  report  may  be  given  to  the 
Synod.  The  other  Anabaptift,  William  Thomefon,  is  delayed  till  Mr. 
Johne  Makgill  and  Mr.  William  Row  give  in  ther  report. 

Anent  women  witnefles,  Whither  they  being  Elders  wyffes  may  be  wit- 
nefTes  ? 

Junij  4. — Anabaptifts. — The  Anabaptifts  ar  called  upon  pro  3to  They 
ar  declared  contumacious.  They  ar  appointed  to  be  fummond  out  of  pulpit 


SEPT.  1657.  OF  CUPAR.  179 

publickly,  and  a  lettre  is  to  be  wrettin  to  the  Minifter,  wher  two  of  them 
refide ;  the  thrid,  flaying  in  towne,  is  to  be  publikly  fumniond  out  of  pulpit. 

Junij  18. — This  day,  Commiffioners  from  the  towne  of  San&andros  pre- 
fented  ther  defyre,  that  the  contribution  for  ther  peir  fhould  be  accele 
rated  in  refpeft  of  the  feafon  of  the  yeir,  they  being  fo  neceffitat  for  the 
tyme.  And  in  the  meantyme,  copies  ar  delyvered  to  everie  minifter  to 
be  prefented  to  ther  Seffiounes  to  be  gathered  as  they  think  expedient. 

Mr.  Johne  Makgill  reprefented  to  the  Prefbyterie,  that  he  had  conferred 
with  Criftian  Miller,  on  of  the  Anabaptift  women,  and  had  not  cited  hir, 
(according  to  the  former  dayes  appointment,)  out  of  pulpit,  becaufe  he 
hath  hope  that  fhe  fhalbe  convinced  of  hir  error ;  and  therfor  he  did  delay 
the  fame  till  he  fie  what  may  be  done.  Mr.  George  Thomefon  is  ap 
pointed  Hill  to  concurr  with  him. 

Julij  16. — Anabaptifts. — Criftian  Miller,  Anabaptift,  being  delt  with  by 
the  two  brether,  Mr.  Johne  Makgill  and  Mr.  George  Thomefon,  they  re 
port  that  fhe  is  ftill  obftinat,  and  vilipends  privat  citationes.  She  is  ap 
pointed  to  be  fummond  publikly  out  of  pulpitt. 

The  queftione  being  propond,  Whither  Mr.  William  Tullideff  fhould  be 
now  or  never  pofed  anent  his  declaration  ?  It  caried  that  he  fhould  never 
be  pofed.  He  is  appointed  to  be  admitted  to  the  miniftrie  this  day  15 
dayes.  Mr.  Alexander  Balfour  is  appointed  to  intimat  on  the  Saboth 
come  eight  dayes,  and  Mr.  William  Livingftoun  to  celebrate  the  adion. 

Denbug,  the  penult  of  Julij. — [Mr.  William  Tullideff  admitted  minifter 
at  Denbug.] 

Sept.  3. — The  Prefbyterie  takeing  to  ther  confideration  the  fad  evidences 
of  the  Lords  difpleafure  upon  the  land,  by  the  unfeafbnable  raine,  thinks 
fitt  to  change  ther  texts,  for  inbeareing  this  faid  ftroke  upon  the  people. 

Monemell,  September  10. — The  whilk  day,  the  Prefbyterie  mett  at  Mone- 
mell,  (in  obedience  to  the  a6t  of  the  Synod  to  the  Prefbyterie,  and  the 
a6l  of  the  Prefbyterie  this  day  15  dayes,)  Mrs.  David  Raitt,  William  Row, 
Johnne  Rig,  Walter  Greig,  George  Thomefon,  James  Wedderburne. 

The  names  of  the  elders  ar  given  in  to  the  Prefbyterie.  The  elders  pre- 
lent,  Alexander  Balfour,  David  Bontaveron,  Johne  Mores,  Robert  Low, 
Alexander  Low.  They  all  being  interrogat,  if  they  werre  the  reporters, 


180  THE  PRESBYTERY  SEPT.  1657. 

that  Mr.  David  Orme  was  avocat  from  his  calling  by  laboureing  of  land 
without  the  parifli  ?     They  all  denyed. 

Alexander  Balfour  being  particularly  enquyred,  if  ther  minifter  was 
avocat  from  his  calling,  or  omitted  any  point  therof  as  preacheing,  cate- 
chifeing,  or  vifiteing,  etc.  Anfwered,  that  he  never  knew  him  omitt  any 
duty  of  his  calling. 

Johne  Mores  being  called,  declared,  that  he  never  knew  ther  minifter 
to  negleft  any  point  of  his  calling  by  his  laboureing  of  land. 

David  Bontaveron  being  questioned,  anfwered,  that  he  could  not  mifle 
ther  minifter  from  his  calling  by  laboureing  of  land  without  the  parilh. 

Robert  Low  being  enquyred  as  before,  anfwered,  that  he  never  knew 
his  minifter  abftra&ed  (by  laboring  of  land)  from  the  duties  of  his  calling, 
but  was  als  dutifull  and  painfull  as  any  minifter  whatfoever. 

Alexander  Low,  being  enquyred  as  before,  anfwered,  he  knew  not 
any  abftra&ion  from  his  calling  by  laboureing  of  land ;  but  wiflied  they 
werre  als  diligent  in  attendance  as  he  was  to  doe  his  duety. 

Thefe  fyve  elders  all  being  called  before  the  Prefbyterie.  The  Prefby- 
terie  [confidering]  that  this  will  not  be  taken  for  a  fufficient  inquirie  by 
the  Synod,  did  therfor  appoint  another  dyet,  that  the  abfent  elders  may  be 
prefent. 

September  24. — The  Laird  of  Rankilor-Nether  appeares  before  the  Pref 
byterie  ;  being  enquyred,  if  ther  minifter,  Mr.  David  Orme,  was  avocat  from 
his  calling  by  laboureing  of  land  ?  Anfwered,  that  he  defyres  his  minifter 
be  exhorted  to  be  more  painfull  in  vifiteing  and  catechifeing ;  and  he 
thoght  that  he  might  be  more  painfull  if  he  werre  not  fo  diverted ;  and 
that  he  would  fet  his  land,  if  fo  be  it  fliould  be  to  his  prejudice. 

The  Laird  of  Mount  appeared,  and  being  interrogat,  if  his  minifter  was 
avocat  from  his  calling  by  laboureing  of  land  ?  Anfwered,  that  he  knew 
him  not  avocat. 

Robert  Henderfone  appeares,  and  declares,  that  it  did  not  avocat  him. 
David  Ballingall  appeares,  and  declares  that  it  did  not  avocat  the  minifter. 
Florence  Johnftoun  declares,  that  he  knew  him  not  to  be  avocat. 

The  whole  heritors  and  elders  being  heard,  and  the  minifter  himfelffe 
being  interrogat,  the  Prelbyterie  found,  that  he  had  land  in  his  owne 


MAY  1658.  OF  CUPAR.  181 

hand  in  Newburgh ;  and  that  he  was  a  conjun6t  tutor  and  curator  for 
two  pupills  in  the  parifli  of  CollefTy,  his  fillers  children,  who  had  nether 
father  nor  mother,  and  that  he  had  furnifhed  fome  comes  for  plenifhing 
ther  rowme.  The  Prefbyterie  doe  advyfe  him  to  fet  that  land,  if  it  fhould 
be  to  his  prejudice,  and  to  acquite  himfelffe  of  thofe  burdines  of  that  tu- 
tory  and  curatory  to  the  other  unqle  by  the  father  fyde.  And  withall, 
becaufe  they  heare  he  is  fometymes  avocat  by  attending  the  civile  judica- 
tories  anent  his  ftipend,  which  is  ill  payed  by  fome,  doe  therfor  appoint 
a  lettre  to  be  wrettin  to  the  heritors  not  to  be  a  caufe  of  avocation  to  him 
by  ther  deficiencie. 

Ketle,  October  29. — The  minifter  and  elders  ar  exhorted  to  rebuike  tipling 
and  long  fitting  at  drink  ;  and  that  they  delate  fwearers  and  curfers,  and 
crub  pipeing  and  dancing. 

Apryl%%,  1658. — Anabaptift. — Criftian  Miller,  in  the  parifh  of  Cupar, 
being  before  declared  contumax  to  the  difcipline  of  the  Kirk  of  Scotland, 
the  minifter  is  appointed  to  goe  on  in  the  firft  prayer,  before  the  fentence 
of  excommunication. 

Maij  5. — Mr.  George  Thomefon  reprefented  to  the  Prefbyterie,  that 
the  parifli  of  Kilmany  had  no  mantenance  for  a  fchole.  The  Prefbyterie 
refolves  to  tak  the  moft  fpeedie  courfe  for  furthering  the  buffinefle. 

Maij  20. — Mr.  Johne  Makgill  reported,  that  he  had  prayed  the  2d 
tyme  before  excommunication.  His  diligence  is  approven.  As  alfo, 
he  fhew  that  fhe,  Criftian  Miller,  Anabaptift,  had  fent  fome  privat  per- 
fones,  defyreing  him  to  conferre  with  hir,  which  he  had  condifcended  to 
doe  before  two  elders ;  but  being  informed  of  ibme  probabilities  that  it 
was  but  a  fhift  to  delay  tyme,  he  had  withall  defyred  them  to  tell  hir  that 
he  could  not  break  off  the  courfe  of  the  proceffe  of  excommunication  with 
out  the  Prefbyterie ;  wifhing  her  to  be  ferious  and  ingenuous  in  the  de 
manded  conference.  But  that  fince  that  he  heard  nothing  more  from  her. 
The  Prefbyterie  approveth  what  he  hath  done,  and  appoints  him  to  pray 
for  her  in  publicke  the  3d  tyme  before  the  pronunciation  of  the  fentence. 

Julij. — Anabaptifts. — The  Prefbyterie  haveing  confidered  the  whole 
procefl'e  concerning  Chriftian  Miller,  who  hath  rejefted  and  made  defec 
tion  from  the  do&rine,  worfhip,  difcipline,  and  governement  of  the  Kirk 


182  THE  PRESBYTERY  JULY  1658. 

of  Scotland,  and  hath  not  onely  turned  unto  the  Anabaptifticall  way,  but 
alfo  hath  therwith  drunk  in  all  the  Arminian  errors ;  and  that  notwith- 
ftanding  of  the  minifter  and  Kirk  Seflioun  of  Cuper  ther  tender  dealling 
in  much  long  fuffereing,  and  the  Prefbyterie,  and  ther  Commiflioners  en- 
devours  with  all  meekneffe,  and  all  faire  meanes  and  wayes  that  could  be 
thought  upon  eflayed,  fhe  doth  moft  obftinately  continew  in  a  wilfull  re- 
fuifall  to  hearken  to  any  conference,  not  condifcending  fo  much  as  to  give 
or  heare  a  reafon  from  us,  concerning  what  truthes  fhe  hath  caft  off,  and 
the  errors  which  fhe  hath  embraced :  wherfore  the  Prefbyterie  being 
bound  in  confcience  to  ufe  all  lawfull  meanes  for  preventing  the  lyke 
tendernes  to  others,  and  having  privately  and  publickly  called  for  her, 
and  called  on  the  name  of  God  on  her  behalf,  when  they  could  not  pre- 
vaile,  that  no  meanes  appointed  by  Jefus  Chryft  fliould  be  negle&ed,  doe 
ordaine  the  faid  Chriftian  Miller  to  be  excommunicated,  and  appoint  Mr. 
Johne  Makgill  to  doe  it  in  the  kirk  of  Cuper. 

It  being  found,  by  depofition  of  witnefTes,  that  Adam  Taite,  (referred  by 
the  Sefiioun  of  Balmirrinoch  to  the  Prefbyterie,)  had  moft  wickedly  tra 
duced  Mr.  Walter  Greig,  and  laboured  to  weaken  his  miniftrie,  calleing 
him  a  betrayer  of  fowles,  a  fcruffer  of  fcriptures,  and  one  unworthie  of  his 
place,  etc. :  all  which  lie  had  denyed  till  it  was  proven. 

Lykewyfe,  it  being  found  that  the  faid  Adam,  with  Marjory  Jak,  \vho 
had  together  broached  many  foull,  vyle,  fclanderous  fpeeches  againft  Mr. 
Walters  wyffe ;  alfo,  all  which  was  proven  againft  them,  after  they  had 
denyed  the  fame.  Therfor,  the  Prefbyterie  ordeines  all  the  three  [two]  to 
appeare  before  the  congregation  of  Balmirrinoch  in  fackclothe,  and  ther 
acknowledge  ther  offences,  and  declare  ther  repentance  for  the  fame. 

Julij  22. — Mr.  Johne  Makgill  reported  that  he  had  excommunicated 
Chriftian  Miller,  according  to  appointment.  The  Prefbyterie  ordeines  her 
excommunication  to  be  intimated  throughout  the  feverall  kirks  of  the 
Prefbyterie,  and  lykewyfe  to  give  notice  therof  to  neighbour  Prelby- 
teries. 

December  30. — William  Thomefon,  Anabaptift,  with  his  wyffe  Ifobel 
Webfter,  being  called  pro  3°-  and  not  compeiring,  they  ar  appointed  pub 
lickly  to  be  fummond  out  of  pulpitt. 


SEPT.  1658.  OF  CUPAR.  183 

January  27,  1659. — Anent  the  diftreft  depofed  minifters,  it  is  to  be 
taken  to  the  ferious  consideration  of  the  brether. 

February  10. — William  Thomefon  compeired,  and  profefled  that  he  was 
convinced  of  the  errore  of  his  defedione  to  Anabaptifme,  wherto  he  had 
been,  through  ignorance,  and  by  refpeft  at  that  tyme,  feduced,  and  was 
content  to  fubmitt  to  any  way  of  fatiffadione  for  the  removeing  of  that 
fcandall ;  as  alfo,  for  the  fcandall  of  his  diforderly  way  of  mariage  with 
Ifobel  Webfter.  The  Prefbyterie  ordeines,  that  he  fhall  goe  to  the  con 
gregation  of  Cuper,  wher  he  was  dipped  and  gave  offence,  and  ther  prefent 
his  child  of  four  yeirs  old  to  be  baptized  ther  publickly  before  the  congre 
gation,  to  profeffe  his  faults  foirfaid,  and  to  promife  ther  (as  he  had  done 
heere)  to  feek  God  for  ftedfaftnefle  heirafter ;  and  his  wyffe  Ifobel  Web 
fter  was  lykewayes  appointed  to  declare  her  repentance,  the  foirfaid  day, 
for  her  diforderly  way  of  mariage. 

Martij  10. — The  Prefbyterie  haveing  heard  of  fome  perfone  makeing 
ufe  of  a  child  for  cureing  the  Cruells,  the  Prefbyterie  doth  appoint  the 
brether  to  inhibit  perfones  in  that  kynd  ;  and,  withal,  that  it  be  a  reference 
to  the  Synod. 

May  26. — George  Smyth,  bailyie  of  Pittenweem,  prefents  a  fupplication 
for  a  contribution  for  fupplieing  of  ther  harbory.  It  is  recommendit  to 
the  feverall  brethren.  The  contribution  for  Anftruther  is  firft  to  be  per- 
fyted,  and  then  the  reft  of  the  contributions  for  Craill,  Pittenweem,  and 
Kinghorne,  ar  appointed  to  be  colle6ted. 

JulijQS. — This  day,  Mr.  David  Raitt  caufed  call  one  James  Lowdon,  in 
his  paroche,  before  the  Prefbyterie,  for  fcandalous  advyfeing  with  ane  in 
famous  woman  anent  his  health ;  and  he,  being  extreamly  weighted  ther- 
with,  the  Prefbyterie  doe  appoint  him  to  mak  declaration  of  his  repentance 
before  the  pulpitt,  which  he  promifed  to  obey. 

September  2. — [Mr.  James  Wedderburne  younger  admitted  affiftant  to 
his  father  at  Moonfie.] 

December  1. — Mr.  James  Makgill,  minifter  at  Largo,  defyred  the  Prefby- 
teries  fenfe  and  certificat  of  the  ufuall  pra6tife  of  the  Kirk  and  Prefbyterie, 
of  what  was  allowed  to  the  reli&s  of  deceafed  minifters,  that  accordingly 
might  be  done  to  his  mother,  the  reli6t  of  our  reverend  brother  Mr.  Johne 


184  THE  PRESBYTERY  JUNE  1660. 

Makgill,  late  minifter  at  Flifk,  who  deceafed  March  22, 1 659.  The  Prefby- 
terie,  haveing  confidered  the  cafe,  and  tyme  of  the  defun&s  departure,  find 
that,  according  to  the  ufuall  pra&ife  of  the  Prelbyterie  in  all  tyme  bygone, 
and  ads  of  the  Kirk,  when  a  minifter  dieth  in  January,  his  reli&  or  executor 
gett  the  whole  ftipend  of  that  yeir  wherin  he  dyeth  ;  and  fo  to  the  relid  of 
Mr.  Johne  Makgill,  who  died  March  22,  1659,  wilbe  due  the  whole  ftipend 
of  this  preient  yeir  1659,  which  the  Prelbyterie  doe  advyfe  and  intreat  thes 
concerned  in  the  payment  to  dely  ver  unto  her.  And  the  whole  praemifles 
ar  appointed  to  be  certified  to  Mr.  James  Makgill  by  ane  extra6t  heirof, 
fubfcryved  by  our  Moderator  and  clerk. 

Februar  23,  1660. — Mr.  William  Livingftoun  defyred  advyce  of  the 
Prefbyterie,  Whether  or  not  he  might  contraft  one  Johne  Murrey,  whofe 
father  was  alive,  the  faid  Johne  not  haveing  a  teftimoniall  under  his  fathers 
hand,  declareing  his  confent  to  the  mariage  ?  The  Prelbyterie,  finding  that 
he  was  only  a  naturall  fonne,  and  that  the  place  of  his  fathers  refidence 
was  remote  at  Dunfreilh,  and  that  now  ther  was  fome  hazard  in  travaile- 
ing,  thought  he  might  goe  on  to  marry  him  if  no  other  thing  were  excepted. 

Junij  21. — It  was  motioned  alfo,  anent  the  Thankfgiveing  for  the  great 
delyverance  wee  have  had  by  bringing  our  governement  eftablifhed  in  our 
King ;  and  it  being  reprefented,  that  befouth  and  benorth  us  they  have 
bein  about  this,  the  bretheren,  considering  that  our  neighbouring  Prefby- 
teries  lies  not  as  yet  gone  about  it,  think  it  therfore  expedient  to  corref- 
pond  with  them  the  nixt  Weddenfday :  Mr.  William  Row  is  appointed 
for  that  effeft,  and  to  report  this  day  8  dayes,  which  they  have  appointed 
therfore  to  meett.  He  hath  alfo  in  commiffion,  to  fliew  to  them  the 
changeing  of  the  mercat  of  Auchtermuchty  from  Monday  to  Twefday. 

The  brether  appointed  to  draw  up  the  oath  which  fhould  be  put  to  Sir 
George  Morifon,  [it]  was  prefented  and  reade  in  his  heareing  :  He  is  fum- 
mond  apud  a£ta  to  appeare  this  day  8  dayes. 

I,  Sir  George  Morison,  doe  solemnely  protest  and  sweare  by  the  most  holy  and  dreadfull 
name  of  the  eternall  and  everliveing  God,  that  I  never  had  at  any  time,  nor  in  any  place,  carnall 
dealeing  or  copulation  with  Jonet  Hamiltoun,  sometyme  servant  to  my  wyff ;  nether  am  I  the 
father  of  the  child  brought  forth  by  her,  as  she  alledges.  And  this,  upon  the  foirsaid  great  oath, 
I  doe  declare  to  be  of  truthe,  in  presence  and  sight  of  the  alseing  God,  the  searcher  of  hearts ; 


SEPT.  1660.  OF  CUPAR.  185 

and  that,  as  I  shalbe  answerable  to  bis  most  gloriouse  Majestie,  upon  tbe  fearfull  hazard  of  my 
sowles  everlasting  condemnation  in  that  dreadfull  day  wheirin  Chryst  Jesus  shall  come  to  judge 
the  world,  and  call  me  to  ane  account  for  the  integretie  of  my  heart,  and  for  truthe  and  inge- 
nuitie  of  my  words  and  declaration  in  this  particular. 

Mr.  Alexander  Balfour  craved  advyfe  anent  a  man  who  had  lived  in 
his  parifti  6  or  7  yeirs  unblameably ;  but  the  Seffioun,  willing  to  be  cleired 
concerning  him,  defyred  him  bring  a  tefthnoniall  from  the  place  of  his 
former  abode,  which  they  did  receave,  beareing  in  it  that  a  warlaw1  con 
demned  had  delated  him  as  being  als  guilty  as  himfelfe ;  but  it  was  lyke- 
wayes  knowne  that  he  had  malice  at  him,  as  was  declared.  Mr.  Alex 
ander  fhew  that  he  had  not  communicat  fince  he  was  his  parifhioner ;  but 
now  being  defyrous  to  communicat,  Mr.  Alexander  craveth  advyfe  from 
the  Prefbyterie,  whither  or  not  he  might  be  admitted. 

Junij  28. — Mr.  William  Row  reported,  that  the  Prefbyterie  of  San&- 
andros  had  concluded  anent  the  Thankfgiveing,  that  it  ihould  be  on  Thurf- 
day,  for  that  the  Lord  hes  bien  pleafed  to  grant  fuch  a  delyverance  to  our 
King,  without  blood,  in  fuch  an  unexpefted  way.  The  Prefbyterie  refolves 
to  obferve  that  day  with  als  great  thankfulnefie,  joy,  and  gladnefle,  as 
poffibly  can  be. 

September  20. — This  day,  a  number  of  copies  of  the  Kings  Majefties 
Lettre  dire6t  to  the  Prefbyterie  of  Edenburgh,  and  appointed  to  be  com- 
municatt  to  the  reft  of  the,  Prefbyteries  of  this  kingdome,  werre  fent  hither 
by  Mr.  James  Wood  ;  a  copy  was  judicially  reade  in  the  Prefbyterie.  The 
reft  of  the  copies  deftribute  to  the  feverall  Bretheren,  who  heard  and  re 
ceived  the  fame  with  great  joy,  contentment,  and  abundance  of  refpe6t  as 
was  fuitable.  They  took  to  advyfe  what  to  fay  while  we  meett  at  the 
Synod. 

The  Prefbyterie  recenting  ther  feverall  Seffiones  to  be  fo  tedious  and 
long,  that  Bretheren  ar  extreamely  wearied  and  keeped  fo  late,  they  have 
not  fufficient  tyme  to  repaire  home,  doe  recommend  the  Bretheren  ther 
avoydeing  of  neidleffe  debateing  about  matters  of  fmalleft  importance ; 
neither  interrupting  one  another  in  giveing  ther  judgement ;  but  that  they 
expreffe  themfelffes  in  due  tyme  and  order :  And  that  everie  purpofe  al- 
readie  tabled  be  propond  by  the  Moderator,  none  of  the  reft  fpeaking  till 

1  Warlock  ;  a  wizzard. 
2  A 


186  THE  PRESBYTERY  OF  CUPAR.  1660. 

% 

they  be  by  him  requyred.  Then,  that  in  the  way  of  deliberation,  everie 
member,  as  he  flialbe  defyred,  utter  his  judgement  breifly,  with  the  reafon 
orreafones  therof,  in  a  perfpicuous  concludent  manner,  all  keipeing  filence, 
giveing  attendance,  forbearing  private  conference,  whifpering,  in  the  meane 
tyme.  Then  if  ther  be  difference  of  judgement  in  the  difpute,  that  the 
matter  be,  by  the  Moderator,  put  to  a  decifive  voice,  and  the  queftion 
dated  in  breiffe  termes,  unto  which  everie  one  fliall  anfwere,  not  altering 
the  words  therof;  and  that  none  may  have  occafione  to  conceive  himfelffe 
neglected  in  the  deliberation,  everie  member  before  voiceing  be  heard  to 
fpeake  his  inynd,  upon  libertie  afked  and  given,  but  that  none  in  tyme 
of  voiceing  mak  interruption.  And  ordeines,  that  whofoever  fhall  faile 
in  thes  or  any  of  thes,  that  he  be  removed  and  cenfured. 
The  Bretlieren  ar  removed  to  be  cenfured,  and  ar  approven. 


INDEX. 


INDEX. 


Abercorn,  Earl  of,  37. 

Abercrombie,  Lord,  49,  50,  52,  142,  143,  151. 

Abercrombie,  Lady,  142. 

Abercrombie,  Parish  of,  33,  34. 

Abernethie,  Major  Andrew,  63. 

Adams,  Mr.  Colin,  m.  of  Anstruther-Easter,  1 0, 

12,  17,  51,  57,  59. 
Adams,  Mr.  James,  73. 
Airlie,  Earl  of,  105. 
Airth,  James,  12,  17,  22. 
Alexander,  John,  17. 
Alexander,  Mr.  Jo.,  m.  of  Forgan,  83. 
Alexander,  Mr.  Jo.,  m,  of  Cults,  144,  169. 
Allardice,  David,  116. 
Anabaptists,  177,  179,  18J,  183. 
Anderson,  Mr.  And.,  109,  165. 
Anderson e,  Mr.  James,  35. 
Anderson,  Mr.  Jo.,  m.  of  Leslie,  Principal  of  St. 

Leonards  College,  98. 
Annandale,  Lord,  108,  111,  143. 
Anstruther,  John,  malignant,  34,  55,  57. 
Ardrosse,  Laird  of,  7,  12. 
Areskine,  Charles,  70. 
Argyle,  distressed  people  of,  36,  119. 
Argyle,  Marquis  of,  151. 
Arnot  of  Erlshall,  51,  69. 
Arnot,  Sir  Ja.,  of  Fernie,  114. 


Arnot  Lady,  69. 

Arnot  of  Balcormo,  73. 

Arthur,  Mr.  John,  m.  of  Elie,  96. 

Athole,  Captain  of,  26. 

Auchenlaike,  Mr.  And.,  m.  of  Deninno,  89. 

Auchenlaike  Mr.  Jo.,  m.  of  Newburn,  79,  82. 

Ay  ton,  Mr.  William,  45. 

Aytoun,  Lady  of,  104. 


Bagrig,  Laird  of,  ]  07. 

Bairdie,  Mr.  John,  66. 

Balcarres,  Lord,  17,  33,  49. 

Balfour,  Laird  of,  7. 

Balfour,  Margaret,  witch,  14,  19. 

Balfour,  Mr.  AL,  m.  of  Abdie,  104,  108. 

Balfour,  Sir  James,  128. 

Balmuto,  Laird  of,  25. 

Barclay,  Mr.  John,  m.  of  Dinninow,  81,  82. 

Barclay,  David,  106. 

Barclay,  Da.,  portioner  of  Lithrie,  1 07. 

Barnes,  Laird  of  (Cuninghame),  7. 

Barren,  Mr.  John,  m.  of  Kemback,  1 3. 

Baxter,  James,  103. 

Beaton,  Alexander,  21. 

Bell,  William,  72. 


190 


INDEX. 


Bennett,  Mr.  Robert,  m.  of  Kilrennie,  5,  13,  51, 

57,  81. 

Bennett,  James,  bailie  of  Inverkeithing,  85. 
Bennett,  Mr.  And.,  m.  of  Creicb,  108,  121. 
Berwick,  Mr.  John,  151. 
Bethun,  Mr.  William,  167,  168. 
Black,  Mr.  Thomas,  26. 

Black,  Mr.  Tho.,  m.  of  A nstruther- Wester,  97. 
Blair,  Mr.  Robert,  m.  at  St.  Andrews,  4,  8,  11, 

12,  16,  17,  51,  52,  57. 
Blyth,  David,  113. 
Bonar,  Thomas,  malignant,  24,  25. 
Borthwick,  Mr.  Eleazer,  m.  of  Leucbars,  4,  7. 
Boyd,  Mr.  Zacbary,  123. 
Bratbins,  Laird  of,  71. 
Brown,  Mr.  James,  m.  in  Glasgow,  99. 
Brown,  Sir  John,  152. 

Bruce,  Mr.  James,  wi.of  Kingsbarns,4,12, 13,57. 
Bruce,  Mr.  William,  8. 
Bruce,  Mr.  Andrew,  m.  of  Carnbie,  81,  82.    tn. 

of  Pittenweem,  9 1 . 

Bruce,  Mr.  Andrew  junior,  m.  of  Kilrinny,  83. 
Bruce,  Mr.  Walter,  86. 
Bruce,  Mr.  Ja.,  m.  of  Kingsbarns,  114. 
Buchan,  Jean,  witch,  116. 
Bucban,  Dr.  John,  168. 
Buglois,  Mr.  James,  65. 
Burgbley,  Lord,  14,  173. 
Burne,  Mr.  James,  154. 
Burnet,  Mr.  Andrew,  m.  of  St.  Monance,  95. 
Bynning  of  Dinninow,  52. 


Cameron,  Kirk  of,  erected,  23,  83. 
Campbell,  Mr.  Hugh,  m.  of  Dalkeitb,  116. 
Canneris,  Mr.  James,  93. 
Carmicluxel,  Andrew,  warlock,  33. 
Carnbie,  Lady,  23. 


Centesima  of  Stipends,  98. 

Chart  of  Scotland,  6,  7. 

Charters,  Mr.  Laurence,  65. 

Christison,  Mr.  John,  m.  of  Kemback,  86. 

Cleiland,  Mr.  Robert,  m.  of  Newburn,  98. 

Clephan  of  Carslogie,  1 07,  1 63. 

Clephan,  James,  103,  107. 

Cochran,  Mr.  William,  1  68. 

Colkittoch,  26. 

Colvill,  Dr.  Alex.,  20,  67,  73,  75. 

Colvill,  Mr.  Samuel,  65,  66,  67. 

Colvill,  Mr.  Alex.,  Justice  Depute,  139,  144. 

Collernie,  Laird  of,  172,  168. 

Comnenus,  Anastasius,  72. 

Comrie,  Mr.  Walter,  m.  at  St.  Andrews,  38,  50, 

57. 

Corby,  Henry,  172. 
Cornwell,  Mr.  Alexander,  168,  173. 
Coupar,  Mr.  Patrick,  >//.  of  Pittenweem,  97. 
Couper,  Bessie,  witch,  107,  108. 
Covenant,  12,  15,  16,  45. 
Craill,  contribution  for,  33,  183. 
Craufurd,  Earl  of,  37,  111,  144,  156,  160,  162. 
Creich,  Laird  of,  121. 
Crichton,  Sir  Robert,  151. 
Crosman,  Lieut.,  170. 
Cruels,  touching  for  the,  15,  183. 
Cupar,  contribution  for,  87. 
Cuper,  Mr.  Harie,  113,  120. 


Dairsie,  Isobel,  witch,  14,  15,  17. 

Dalgleishe,  Mr.  Da.,  m.  of  Cupar,  1 03. 

Deas,  Helen,  116. 

Deas  John,  67. 

Dewar,  Mr.  Geo.,  m.  of  Anstruther- Wester,  13. 

Dishington,  Mr.  George,  m.  of  Cults,  175. 

Dote,  Christian,  witch,  17,  19. 


INDEX. 


191 


Dote,  Betty.,  witch,  19. 
Dowglas,  Mr.  Robert,  63. 
Drummond,  Mr.  James,  m.  of  Kilconquhar,  96. 
Drunkards  to  be  censured,  7,  9,  27,  36. 
Duddingstoun,  Mungo,  113. 
Dugud,  Lieut.,  67. 

Dundas,  William,  of  Duddingston,  63. 
Dundee,  collection  for,  88. 
Dunlop,  Mr.  William,  Principal  of  Glasgow  Col 
lege,  99. 
Durie,  Mr.  Jo.  m.  of  Logic,  112,  129,  156. 


E 


Edmiston,  Mr.  Robert,  m.  of  Culross,  deposed,  86. 
Edward,  Dr.  Alex.,  m.  of  Dinninow,  64 ;  m.  of 

Craill,  79,  82,  90. 

Edward,  Mr.  Alex.,  m.  of  Kemback,  95. 
Enormities  and  Corruptions  in  the  Ministry,  28. 
Erlshall,  Laird  of,  51. 


F 


Fainton,  Lady,  4. 

Fairfull,  Mr.  Da.,  112. 

Fairfull,  Robert,  80,  81. 

Fairfull,  William,  74. 

Fairweather,  Mr.  Robt.,  m.  of  Carnbie,  97. 

Falconer,  Dr.,  92. 

Falconer,  Mr.  John,  m.  of  Carnbie,  95. 

Finla,  Bobo,  24. 

Finlay,  Thomas,  67. 

Fleeming,  Mr.  Mathew,  m.  of  Culross,  86. 

Forbes,  Arthur,  113. 

Forrester,  Mr.  Thomas,  m.  of  St.  Andre  AVS,  96. 

Forret,  Mr.  David,  m.  of  Forgan,  3,  13.;   of 

Kilconquhar,  34,  51,  57. 
Forther,  Laird  of,  1 07. 


G 


Gairns,  Mr.  Ja.,  m.  of  Balmerrino  and  of  Carn- 

bee,  92. 

Gibb,  Marion,  86. 
Gillespie,  Mr.  Ja.,  m.  of  Rind,  120. 
Givane,  Mr.  James,  146. 
Glasfurd,  Mr.  Patrick,  128. 
Glasford,  Mr.  Robert,  m.  of  Kembock,  81. 
Glencarne,  Earl  of,  61. 
Gordon,  Lord,  112. 
Gordon,  Ludovick,  1 1 3. 
Gordon,  Pat.,  with  the  steitt  hand,  113. 
Gordon,  Alexander,  113. 
Gordon  of  Feichell,  113. 
Gordon  of  Newtoun,  yo.,  113. 
Gordon,  Mr.  George,  m.  of  Leuchars,  97. 
Goveane,  Lieut.  William,  63. 
Grangemure,  Laird  of,  96. 
Gregorie,  William,  54. 

Greig,  Mr.  Wai.,  m.  of  Balmerrino,  103,  108. 
Guthrie,  Mr.  David,  m.  of  Anstruther- Wester, 

26,  28,  57,  81. 
Guthrie,  Margaret,  witch,  84. 


H 


Hall,  Mr.  Jo.,  m.  of  Kilspindie,  118. 
Hamilton,  Mr.  George,  m.  of  Newburn,  3,  51, 

57. 
Hamilton,  Mr.  Geo.  yo.  m.  of  Newburn,  74,  97, 

160. 

Hamilton,  Duke  of,  46,  61. 
Hamilton,  Mr.  James,  63. 
Hamilton,  Mr.  James,  146. 
Hardie,  Mr.  William,  m.  of  Crail,  96. 
Haviland,  Sir  Anthony,  70. 
Hay,  Mr.  William,  m.  of  Kilconquhar,  90. 
Hay,  Mr.  Alex.,  m.  of  Kilconquhar,  95. 


192 


INDEX. 


Hay,  Mr.  James,  m.  of  Newburn,  95,  154. 

Hay,  Peter,  of  Forrett,  152. 

Heart,  Mr.  John,  m.  at  Grail,  1 9,  57> 

Heggie,  Helen,  90. 

Henderson,  Mr.  Alex.  m.  of  Leachars,  121. 

Hepburn  of  Athurstane,  1 65. 

Holland,  John,  quack  doctor,  57. 

Honyman,  Mr.  Andrew,  m.  at  St.  Andrews,  16, 

51,  57,  125. 
Honyman,  Mr.  Robert,  Regent  in  St.  Andrews, 

65 ;  m.  of  Newburn,  66  ;  m.  of  Dysert,  72. 
Huntly,  Marquis  of,  113. 


Jack,  William,  bailie  of  St.  Andrews,  96. 

Jamesone,  Alexander,  146. 

Jethseman,  Jonet,  1 17. 

Inglis,  David,  3,  5. 

Inglis,  Alexander,  of  Kingask,  22. 

Inglis,  Alexander,  128. 

Innes,  Mr.  Alex.  113. 

Inverkeithirig,  contribution  for,  85. 

Johnston,  David,  127. 


Kellie,  Lord,  84. 
Kelso,  contribution  for,  25. 
Kemback,  Laird  of,  7,  16. 
Kemp,  Mr.  Hugh,  96. 
Kenmure,  Viscount,  163. 
Kennedy,  Lady  Margaret,  156. 
Kennedy,  Peter,  65. 

Ker,  Mr.   Andrew,  Clerk  to  the  General  As 
sembly,  63. 

Key,  Isobel,  witch,  85. 
Kilbrackmond,  Laird  of,  52. 
Kilmarnock,  collection  for,  88. 


Kilriimy,  collection  for,  89. 
Kincraig,  Laird  of,  7,  33,  1 25. 
Kinghorn,  contribution  for,  183. 
Kinkell,  Laird  of,  7. 
Kirk,  Mr.  Ja.  m.  of  Dumblane,  105. 
Kirkaldie,  contribution  for,  87. 
Knox,  Mr.  Ja.,  m.  of  Deninow,  98. 
Kynneir,  Mr.  David,  126. 


Lammie,  Mr.  Robert,  7. 

Lamonth,  Mr.  John,  m.  of  Temple  Patrick,  5. 

Lamonth,  Mr.  Alane,  m.  of  Scoonie,  5. 

Lanark,  Earl  of,  136. 

Laudels,  Mr.  George,  m.  of  Kemback,  90. 

Langdale,  Sir  Marmaduke,  26. 

Lasistouu,  Laird  of,  172. 

Lathallan,  Laird  of,  17. 

Lathoker,  Laird  of,  77. 

Lauderdale,  Earl  of,  60. 

Law,  Mr.  Mungo,  m.  of  Edinburgh,  63. 

Leith  of  Harthill,  113. 

Lentron,  James,  19. 

Lentron,  Mr.  Thomas,  21,  65. 

Leslie,  Mr.  Alex.,  m.  of  Ceres,  84 ;  of  Craill,  95. 

Lesly,  Major  Andrew,  163. 

Leslie,  Sir  John,  of  Newton,  46. 

Levingston,  Mr.  W.,  m.  of  Falkland,  116,  162. 

Lindores,  Lord,  112. 

Lindsay,  Earl  of,  17,  18. 

Littlejohn,  Mr.  Jo.,  m.  of  Collessie,  108. 

Livingstone,  John,  19. 

Logic,  Visitation  of,  153,  158. 

Louthian,  Mr.  And.,  117,  118,  120,  135,  158. 

Lumsden,  Colonel,  11. 

Lumsden,  Sir  James,  42,  59. 

Lundie,  Sir  James,  7,  16,  18,  21,  60. 

Lundie,  Mr.  Alex.,  m.  of  Carnbee,  93. 


INDEX 


193 


Lyall,  William,  55. 

Lykewakes  and  Burials,  20. 

Lyndsay,  Isbel,  89. 

Lyndsay,  Mr.  Da.,  m.  of  Belhelvie,  152. 


M 


M'Allum,  Mr.  Archibald,  39. 

M'Allum,  Zacharias,  39,  45. 

Macgill,  Mr.  James,  m.  of  Largo,  21,  55,  57, 

81,  183. 

Macgill,  Mr.  Jo.,  eld.,  m.  of  Flisk,  108,  183. 
Macgill,  Mr,  Jo.,  yo.,  m.  of  Dunbog,   108 ;  of 

Cupar,  170. 

Macgill  of  Kankilour,  108. 
Macward,  Mr.  Robert,  69. 
Maitland,  Mr.  William,  113. 
Malcolm,  Mr.  John,  168. 
Malignant  Song,  24. 
Malignant  Women,  47. 
Martyne  of  Lathones,  52. 
Martin,  Alex.  114. 

Martin,  Mr.  Ja.,  m.  of  Auchtermuchty,  114. 
Melvill,  Mr.  John,  m.  of  Pittenweem,  10, 12,  26, 

33. 

Melvill,  Margaret  (Lady  Carnbie),  23. 
Melvin,  Mr.  Tho.,  110. 
Methven,  Mr.  Paul,  m.  of  Denino,  86. 
Middleton,  Mr.  John,  m.  of  Leuchars,  79,  82. 
Mitchell,  Jonet  and  Marie,  witches,  104,  105. 
Monck,  General,  63. 
Moncreiff,  Laird  of,  12,  51. 
Moncreiff,  Mr.  Alex.,  58. 
Moncreiff,  Mr.  Will.,  m.  of  Anstruther-Easter, 

95. 

Monimail,  Visitation  of,  179. 
Monnypennie,  Thomas,  78. 
Monro,  Mr.  David,  m.  of  Kilconquhar,  5,  1 2. 
Montrose,  Marquis  of,  26. 


Moore,  Mr.  Will.,  m.  of  Dinninow,  80  ;  of  St. 

Andrews,  81,  82,  92. 

Morisone,  Sir  Geo.  of  Dairsy,  77,  108,  151,  184. 
Morison,  Capt.  John,  136. 
Morton,  Mr.  Arthur,  m.  of  Crail,  10. 
Morton,  Sir  Thomas  of  Cambo,  11,  48. 
Morton,  Earl  of,  58. 
Morton's,  Earl  of,  Oath,  58. 
Mure,  Thomas,  72,  74. 
Murray,  Mr.  Gilbert,  45. 
Murray,  Sir  Mungo,  52,  142,  161. 
Murray,  Mr.  Jo.,  m.  of  Strathmiglo,  135. 
Murray,  Mr.  Anthony,  168. 
Myrton,  Margaret,  witch,  19. 


N 


Nairne,  Mr.  George,  m.  of  Cameron,  33,  143. 

Naughton,  Laird  of,  7. 

Nevay,  Mr.  Da.,  Regent  in  St.  Leonards  College, 

45. 

Newburgh,  Visitation  of,  112. 
Norie,  Mr.  Robt.,  Professor  at  St.  Andrews,  7,  8. 
Norwell,  Euphane,  21. 


0 


Ogilvy,  Mr.  William,  m.  of  Newburn,  84. 
Olyphant,  Mr.  John,  m.  of  Camron,  97. 
Olyphant,  Mr.  Laur.,  m.  of  Newburgh,  109, 112. 
Orme,  Mr.  Da.,  m.  of  Monimail,  1 09, 1 30, 1 33, 180. 
Owne,  Tho.  and  James,  120. 


Paisley,  Lord,  37. 
Park,  Laird  of  (Gordon,)  104. 
Paterson,  Lieut.  Andrew,  127. 
Paterson,  Gilbert,  128. 


2B 


194 


INDEX. 


Paterson,  Mr.  Geo.,  in.  of  Dairsie,  144. 
Pnton,  Mr.  David,  m.  at  Kcmback,  45. 
Patullo,  Mr.  George,  m.  of  Newtyle,  63;  of 

Kingsbarns,  79,  82. 
Peacock,  Mr.  Patrick,  66,  171,  172. 
Penny-bridals  regulated,  7,  11,  117,  169. 
Pcrsonc,  Mr.  William,  86. 
Philiphaucb,  battle  of,  32. 
Pitcairn,  Mr.  Henry,  m.  of  Logy,  1 65. 
Pitcairn,  Mr.  Alex.,  Provost  of  tbe  Old  College 

of  St.  Andrews,  96. 
Piterthie,  Laird  of,  7- 
Pitlethie,  Laird  of  (Reid),  7- 
Pittachup,  Laird  of,  163. 
Pittenweem,  contribution  for,  183. 
Plague,  37,  114. 
Pollani,  Francesco,  95. 
Psalmes,  Rous  version  of  the,  54,  1 33. 


Quakers,  85,  86. 


Q 


R 


Rnitt,  Mr.  Da.  m.  of  Dairsie,  121,  153,  164. 

Rait,  Mr.  William,  m.  of  Brechin,  74,  76. 

Ramsay,  Mr.  Jo.  m.  of  Kettle,  108, 135. 

Rauderston,  Laird  of,  7. 

Rankeilor,  Thomas,  48. 

Rattray,  Mr.  Ja.,  m.  of  St.  Monance,  81,  82. 

Ratray,  Mr.  John,  63. 

Reddie,  Archibald,  charmer,  98,  100. 

Reid  of  Pitlethie,  7,  69. 

Richiesonc,  James,  Baillie  of  Pittenweem,  22. 

Rig,  Mr.  Ja.  m.  of  Ferry-porton-craig,  61. 

Robertson,  Geills,  witch,  90,  91. 

Robertson,  Da.,  Dean  of  Guild  of  Cupar,  104. 

Robertson,  Da.,  Baillie  of  Cupar,  104. 


Robertson,  Mr.  George,  156. 

Roch,  Christian,  witch,  22,  32. 

Rothes,  Earl  of,  77. 

Row,  Mr.  William,  m.  of  Ceres,  71,  118. 

Rutherfurd,  Mr.  Samuel,  4, 12, 59,  62,  66,74,  76. 

Ruthven,  General,  111. 

Rymer,  Mr.  Hary,  m.  of  Carnbie,  22,  57,  72. 


8 


Sabbath  breaking  censured,  9. 

Salmon  fishing  forbidden  on  the  Sabbath,  7. 

Salt  Pans  forbidden  to  be  worked  on  the  Sabbath, 

7,  10,  100. 
Sanders,  Thomas,  72. 
Sandielands,  David,  10. 
Sandilands,  Sir  James  of  St.  Monance,  12,  33, 

vide  Abercrombie,  Lord. 
Scheivis,  Helen,  witch,  15,  25. 
Scheivis,  Mr.  John,  23. 
Scott,  Sir  John,  of  Seotstarvet,  6. 
Scott,  James,  27. 

Scot,  Mr.  William,  m.  of  Forgan,  90. 
Scott,  Sir  James,  of  Tarvet,  141. 
Scots  Incorporation  at  London,  88. 
Scotscraig,  Laird  of,  7,  11, 15. 
Scougall,  Mr.  Pat.,  m.  of  Leuchars,  52,  57,  125. 
Seith,  Elspet,  witch,  130,  132,  136,  139,  144, 

146,  147,  150. 

Setoun,  Coronet  Thomas,  152. 
Shallit,  Paul,  88. 
Sharp,  Mr.  James,  m.  of  Crail,  37,  38,  57,  63, 

64,  70,  75,  76,  77,  92. 
Sharp,  Mr.  Alex.,  m.  of  St.  Fillans,  92. 
Shaw,  Mr.  John,  86. 

Shields,  Mr.  Alex.,  m.  of  St.  Andrews,  98. 
Sibbald,  Sir  Ja.,  of  Rankilour,  103,  106. 
Sibbald,  Sir  David,  107,  108,  109. 
Sibbald,  Henry,  146. 


INDEX. 


195 


Skedoway,  Laird  of  (Alexander),  27. 

Small,  Robert,  diviner,  83,  85. 

Small,  Helen,  witch,  130,  132,  134. 

Smith,  James,  Sheriff-depute,  21. 

Smith,  Isbell,  charmer,  58. 

Smith,  Mr.  John,  63. 

Smith,  Mr.  Harie,  m.  of  Beath,  119. 

Smyth,  Geo.,  bailie  of  Pittemveem,  1 83. 

Spindie,  John,  116. 

Spottiswood,  Sir  Jo.,  111. 

St.  Monance  annexed  to  Abercrombie  parish,  33, 

34,  89. 

Stewart,  Sir  James,  1 1 9. 
Stonehaven,  contribution  for,  54. 
Strachen,  Col.  Archibald,  63. 
Strachan,  Mr.  James,  m.  of  St.  Fillans,  92. 
Strang,  Andrew,  32. 
Swinton,  John,  younger  of  Swinton,  63. 
Sword,  James,  62. 

Sym,  Mr.  William,  m.  of  Newburn,  92. 
Symsone,  Mr.  Gilbert,  m.  at  Kingsbarns,  92. 


Taylor,  Mr.  David,  m.  of  Anstruther- Wester,  86. 

Thomson,  Mr.  Ed.,  m.  of  Anstruther-Easter,  92. 

Thomson,  Mr.  Geo.,  m.  of  Kilmanie,  103. 

Thomson,  Grissel,  witch,  104. 

Traill,  Mr.  Robert,  m.  of  Ely,  5,  12. 

Tre wman,  John,  4,  5. 

Troylus,  Isabel,  witch,  139. 

Tullidaffe,  Mr.  William,  45. 

Tullidaff,  Mr.  William,  Principal  of  St.  Leonards 

College,  96. 

Tullideph,  Mr.  Pat.,  m.  of  Ferry-porton-craig,  98. 
Tullideff,  Mr.  Will.,  m.  of  Denbug,  179. 


Veitche,  David,  110. 

Vilant,  Mr.  W.,  m.  of  Ferry-porton-craig,  71. 


W 


Wardlaw,  Mr.  John,  m.  of  Kcmback,  71. 
Wardrop,  Mr.  Will.,  m.  of  Anstruther-Easter,  9C. 
Wedderburn,  Mr.  Alexander,  m.  at  Forgan,  36, 

52,  55,  57,  63,  82,  164. 
Wedderburn,  Mr.  Ja.,  m.  of  Moonsie,  112. 
Wedderburn,  Mr.  Ja.,  yr.,  m.  of  Moonsie,  1 83. 
Wemyss,  Mr.  Robert,  m.  of  Elie,  57,  82. 
Wemyss,  Mr.  James  m.  of  St.  Leonards,  79. 
Wemyss,  Mr.  W.,  m.  of  Auchterhouse,  150. 
Wemyss,  Mr.  Patrick,  m.  of  Kirkaldy,  153. 
White,  Mr.  Robert,  m.  of  Ferry-porton-craig,  84. 
Whyt,  Capt.  Robert,  127. 

Wilkie,  Mr.  Robert,  m.  of  Abercrombie,  6, 1 3,  57. 
Wilkie,  James,  1 1 0. 

Wilkie,  Mr.  Henry,  m.  of  Kirkcaldy,  153. 
Williamson,  Mr.  James,  m.  of  Camron,  86. 
Wilson,  Mr.  Alex.,  m.  of  Camron,  54. 
Wilson,  Mr.  Walter,  96. 
Wilson,  Mr.  Thomas,  66. 
Wilson,  Mr.  Alexander,  m.  of  Ely,  92. 
Winster,  Marjory,  witch,  142. 
Witchcraft,  3,  12,  13,  14,  17,  18,  19,  22,  33. 
Wood,  Mr.  Ja.,  m.  of  St.  Andrews,  8,  12,  13, 

16,  49,  77. 

Wood,  James,  baillie  of  St.  Andrews,  16. 
Wood,  Mr.  Thomas,  m.  at  Ferry-porton-craig,  49. 
Wood,  Mr.  John,  m.  of  Kilrinny,  89,  100. 
Wood,  Mr.  William,  m.  of  Denino,  deposed,  96. 
Wood,  Mr.  John,  m.  at  St.  Andrews,  95. 
Wylie,  Jonat,  witch,  22. 


York,  Duke  of,  79. 

Young,  Mr.  Alex.,  Archdeacon  of  St.  Andrews, 

83. 

Young,  Helen,  witch,  129,  130,  132. 
Youngsone,  Mr.  Andrew,  m.  of  Newburn,  95. 


T.  CONSTABLE,  PRINTER,  EDINBURGH.