Presented to
of tbe
\Hni\>er0it£ of Toronto
Mr. Murray harden
RECORDS OF THE MEETING
OF THE
EXERCISE OF ALFORD
Only 5-?j Copies Printed
No. .^.y-
. \ ..;• .. , ;.
IRecoubs of the
of the
Erercise of Hlforb
MDCLXII— MDCLXXXVIII
Edited by
THE REVEREND THOMAS BELL
Minister of Keig and Clerk to the Presbytery of Alford and to the Synod of Aberdeen
Aberdeen
printefc for the flew Spacing (Hut?
Mdcccxcvii :^>
PRINTED AT THK ADKI.l'HI PRESS. AI1F.R DEKN
liY TAYI.OK AND HENDERSON
PRINTERS TO I IKK MAJESTY THE <JUEE\
Club.
Founded llth November, 1886.
patroness :
HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN.
OFFICE-BEARERS OR 1896-97.
Iprest&ent :
THE EARL OF ABERDEEN, LL.D.
Ii)ice=lpi-esibent8 :
THE DUKE OF RICHMOND AND GORDON,
D.C.L., LL.D.
THE DUKE OF FIFE, K.T.
THE MARQUIS OF HUNTLY, LL.D.
THE MARQUIS OF BUTE, K.T., LL.D.
THE EARL OK ERROLL, LL.D.
THE EARL OF STRATHMORE.
THE EARL OF SOUTHESK, K.T., LL.D.
THE EARL OF KINTORE, LL.D.
THE EARL OF ROSEBERY, K.G., LL.D.
K.G.,
THE LORD FORBES.
THE LORD SALTOUN.
THE LORD PROVOST OF ABERDEEN.
THE PRINCIPAL OF THE UNIVERSITY OF
ABERDEEN.
SIR JOHN F. CLARK, Bart., of Tillypronie.
SIR GEORGE REID, P.R.S.A., LL.D.
JAMES A. CAMPBELL of Stiacathro, M.P., LLD.
WILLIAM FERGUSON of Kmmundy, LL.D.
EMERITUS PROFESSOR DAVID MASSON, LL.D.
iianj Members of Council :
Colonel James Allardyce of Culquoich, LL.D.
John Bulloch, Aberdeen.
George Cadenhead, Procurator-Fiscal, Aberdeen.
The Very Rev. /Eneas Chisholm, LL.D., Preside:'!
of Blairs College.
The Rev. James Cooper, D. D., Aberdeen.
William Cramond, LL.D., Cullen.
Peter M. Cran, City Chamberlain, Aberdeen.
The Rev. J. Myers Danson, D.D., Aberdeen.
Charles B. Davidson, LL.D., President of the
Society of Advocates in Aberdeen.
The Hon. and Right Rev. Bishop Douglas, D.D.,
Aberdeen.
William Dunn of Murtle.
John Philip Edmond, Haigh.
James Ferguson, Edinburgh.
Alexander M. Gordon of Newton.
Henry Wolridge-Gordon of Esslemont.
The Rev. Walter Gregvr, LL.D., deceased.
John A. Henderson, Aberdeen.
Sir William Henderson, LL.D., Aberdeen.
Brigade- Surgeon Lieut-Col. W. Johnston of Newton
Dee, M.D.
The Rev. William Forbes-Leith, S.J., Selkirk.
The Rev. Robert Lippe, LL.D., Aberdeen.
David Littlejohn, Sheriff-Clerk, Aberdeen.
Peter Duguid-M'Combie of Easter Skene.
James Matthews of Spiinghill, LL.D.
The Rev. John G. Michie, Dinnet.
James Moir, LL.D., Co-Rector of the Grammar
School, Aberdeen.
Alexander M. Munro, Aberdeen.
Chailes Rampini, LL.D., Sheriff-Substitute, Elgin.
Alexander Ramsay, LL.D., Banff.
Alexander W. Robertson, Librarian, Public Library,
Aberdeen.
John Forbes Robertson, London.
The Rev. James Smith, B.D., Aberdeen.
Sir David Stewart of Banchory, LL.D.
The Rev. William Temple, D.D., Forgue.
Alexander Walker, LL.D., Aberdeen.
George Walker, Aberdeen.
Robert Walker, University of Aberdeen.
John Forbes White, LL.D., Dundee.
Professor John Dove Wilson, LL.D., Aberdeen.
Robert M. Wilson, M.D., Old Deer.
The Rev. John Woodward, LL.D., Montrose.
Secretary :
PETER JOHN ANDERSON, University Library, Aberdeen.
Urcasurer :
FARQUH ARSON TAYLOR GARDEN, 18 Golden Square, Aberdeen.
Hu&itors :
GEORGE COOPER, C.A., Aberdeen ; and WILLIAM MILNE, C.A., Aberdeen.
Contents
Introduction
Records of the Meeting of the Exercise of Alford
Notes . . . 297
Index
Introduction
THE title of the volume here printed, as given on the first page
of the original MS., is, "The Records of the Meeting of the
Exercise of Alfoord." When selected for publication by the New
Spalding Club the Editorship was undertaken by the late Pro
fessor Christie of Aberdeen. It must be matter of regret to the
Club, it is particularly so to the present Editor, that Dr. Christie
was not spared to finish the work. A native of the district, his
local knowledge, as well as his literary tastes and predilections,
specially qualified him for such work.
The "Record" contains 487 pages, and extends from 2ist
October, 1662, to iQth September, 1688. (Approven by the
Lord Bishop and Synod, 2nd October, 1688.) It thus embraces
the whole of the last period of Episcopacy as the Established
Church in Scotland. From it we obtain a view not merely of
the Church and Church life of the period, but also of the social
life and manners of the people of that age, in a somewhat remote
and secluded district of the country.
The history of the "Record" itself is a curious one, and is
perhaps worth relating. It affords a very good illustration of
how easily our old Church Records might be lost, and frequently
were lost, and also how accidentally, so to speak, they were
sometimes recovered. The story is this — The district contain
ing the Presbytery of Alford was the region of the Earl of Mar,
Marquis of Huntly, &c., and so was a good deal under Jacobite
influence. The result was that when the Jacobite Rebellion of
1715 broke out, several of the ministers of the Presbtery es
poused the cause of the Pretender, and in various ways showed
INTRODUCTION.
their sympathy with the movement, and wish for its success.
As is well known, though Presbyterianism was re-established in
1690, yet many ministers attached to Episcopacy were allowed
to remain in their parishes — "Episcopal Incumbents" they were
called. Most of these had Jacobite leanings. In Alford Pres
bytery five of them joined the Rebellion, and for this were
deposed by the Presbytery. (Eor account of their trial and
deposition see "Historical Papers — Jacobite Period, 1699-1750,
by Colonel Allardyce, LL.D.," Vol. I., p. 62.) One of those so
tried and deposed was the Rev. John Alexander, minister of
Kildrummy. After his deposition, his wife and family seem to
have fallen into great poverty. In March 1718 Mrs. Alexander
petitioned the Presbytery to " recommend her to the half-year's
vacant stipend at Kildrummy." The Presbytery agreed to
grant her request provided she (amongst other things) " give up
to the Presbytery the old Presbytery Register which was in the
hands of her late husband." At the Presbytery meeting, April
23rd, it is reported that "she is ready and willing to comply
with the demands of the Presbytery, and to satisfy Mr. Duff
(the new minister) with respect to the glebe of Kildrummy,
Church utensils, Registers, &c." On July 9th she appeared
before the Presbytery, along with her son-in-law, Mr. Colin
Petrie, and delivered up to the Presbytery, " a pulpit cloth, a
laver for baptisms and a damask cloth for that use, a large
Church Bible with cover, two Session Registers (1673-1686 and
1710-1717), the Presbyteric Register of Alfoord beginning in
October 1662 and ending in September 1688. (Other things
given up are also mentioned.) It is the " Register " 1662-1688
that is^now published. The above account shows the way in
which it was preserved.
The "Record" is in a wonderful state of preservation. Some
of the leaves in the earlier part of it are "frayed" at the corners,
INTRODUCTION. xi
so that occasionally a word, or a line or two cannot be made out.
There are one or two minutes omitted. In a few places what
was illegible or defective has been supplied from the Synod
Record of the period. Of course this could only be done when
the defect was in the parts recording Synod meetings. Alto
gether not more than what would amount to four or five pages
has been thus supplied.
There were several Clerks of Presbytery during the period.
This accounts for what will be noticed, a considerable variety in
" spelling." But the same Clerk does not always <( spell" in the
same way even in the same minute. The variety applies to
proper names as well as to other words, e.g. " Irvine," "Irving,"
"Garreoch," "Garioch" — these refer to the same persons. Latin
words are almost always correct, though we have " merediem "
"meridiem." It has been thought best to copy them as written,
unless when the alteration is clearly an oversight.
As regards penmanship, a considerable portion of the volume
is written in the beautiful old hand common at the period. The
lines are very close to each other, but the execution a marvel
of neatness and accuracy, the writing not difficult to read after
one gets into the way of it.
PRESBYTERY OF ALFORD — PARISHES — MINISTERS.
For several years after the Reformation, indeed until about
1580, there was no such Church Court in the Presbyterian
Church as the Presbytery. Dr. Cunningham (" St. Giles'
Lectures" p. 166) when speaking of the other Church Courts, viz.
the General Assembly, the Synod, and the Kirk-Session, says
xii INTRODUCTION.
" But what of the Presbytery — the most rudimental Court of the
Presbyterian Church. It is not once mentioned. The truth is,
it was not yet clearly conceived of as a Court separate from the
Kirk-Session. More than one half of the parishes v/ere yet
without regular ministers. One minister, in many cases, dis
pensed the Sacraments in four or five different parishes, where
there were only readers to read the Book of Common Order on
the Sundays. There was one eldership for such a group of con
gregations. But as the parishes were gradually supplied with
ministers, an ecclesiastical development took place which re
sulted in every congregation having its own Kirk-Session, and
every district its own Presbytery."
As regards the Presbytery of Alford, Scott in his " Fasti "
(VI. 545) under " Presbytery of Alford or Kildrummy," states,
that it was "proposed to be erected by the General Assembly,
April, 1581, under the latter name, that it seems to have merged,
however, into Kincardine O'Neil, and that of Alford appears
first in the General Assembly 1606."
The district that forms the Presbytery of Alford lies almost
entirely in the upper half of the valley of the Don. Though in
land, and by nature much secluded, yet there are many indica
tions that at no time was it outside the currents of national life.
One or two facts may be adduced in evidence of this. To begin
with remote times ; the so-called Druiclical circles are numerous
in the district. At one time they must have been very numerous,
several in a parish. Whatever these were — whether we regard
them as representing the temples and altars of a worship said by
some to have once been prevalent in our country, or as, what
seems more probable, sepulchral monuments indicating where
some. great chief or warrior was buried, they show this at any-
rate, that, in the district, there must have been a considerable
population. Then, in addition to the Druiclical circles with their
INTRODUCTION. Xlil
standing stones, we have loose stone circles, hill forts, yeird
(underground) houses, two vitrified forts on hill tops in the im
mediate neighbourhood, and other remains of antiquity. It may
also be mentioned that the site of the Devana of the Romans is
only a few miles from several of the parishes, so the Romans
when in Britain must have traversed the district. Again, various
spots in the bounds, or in the neighbourhood, are associated
with the wars of Shakespeare's Macbeth. But leaving what may
be regarded as the field of conjecture and tradition, and coming
to authentic history, there is evidence enough that, however it
might be in remote ages, in modern times our district had to
play its part in the stirring events of our country. We need
only mention that Kildrummy Castle is in the very centre of the
district, Its extensive ruins bear witness to the strength and
importance of a stronghold, so well known, amongst other things,
for its connection with Bruce in the wars of Scottish Indepen
dence. Still later, in the Rebellions of 1715 and 1745, the
people of the district were much involved. The Earl of Mar,
to whom the Castle of Kildrummy belonged, Gordon of Glen-
bucket, whose castle is some five miles further up the Don, and
others we might mention, were keen supporters of the Stuarts.
The people of the district were warlike, strong and hardy. For
centuries no fight or foray was there in these northern regions
in which the men of Upper Donside did not bear a part.
During the period 1662-1688, there were sixteen parishes in
the Presbytery. Beginning at the source of the Don and coming
downwards, these were Strathdon (Invernoughtie), Glenbucket,
Towie (Kinbattock), Kildrummy, Leochel, Forbes, Alford,
Tullynessle, Keig, Tough, Cushny, Auchindoir, Kearn, Clatt,
Kennethmont, and Cabrach. The first nine of these touch the
river at some point ; portions of Tough, and of (the original)
Auchindoir come near to it, the other parishes are more distant
xiv INTRODUCTION.
from it, though none of them far distant. At the present time,
including the quoad sacra parish of Corgarff, there are fourteen
parishes in the Presbytery. Cushnie, Forbes, and Kearn no
longer exist as separate parishes, Cushnie having been joined to
Leochel in 1/95, forming Leochel-Cushnie, Forbes to Tullynessle
in 1808, forming Tullynessle and Forbes, Kearn to Auchindoir
in 1/92. The new parish is Corgarff^. s. erected in 1874.
At the period covered by our " Record " —1662-1688 — the
parishes with their ministers were as follows : —
Alford — 1662-1667, James Gordon (from Tough) ; 1668-
1679, George Melvill ; 1679-1716, Andrew Jeffray (deposed for
joining the Rebellion of 1715).
Auckindoir — i6(?33)-i67i, William Davidson; 1671-1697,
William Thomson.
Cabrack — 1662-1668, James Ross; 1668-1677, John Irving
(or Irvine); 1678-1681, James Irvine; 1682-1705, Alexander
Brown.
Clatt — i6(?33)-i667, George Gairdyne ; 1669-1681, Thomas
Gairdyne ; 1682-1696, Thomas Robertson.
Cushnie -- 1651-1666, William Glass (translated to Kil-
drummy) ; 1667-1671, John Leslie; 1672-1710, Patrick Copland.
Forbes-- 1651-1676, Walter Ritchie; 1677-1687, William
Garioch (translated to Kennethmont).
Glenbucket — 1618-1663, Andrew Car or Ker ; 1663-1666,
David Mylne ; 1667-1695, William Christie.
Kearn — 1660-1675, Robert Dunbar ; 1678-1693, Alexander
Forbes.
Keig — 1651-1665, Thomas Forbes; 1666-1681, Adam Bar
clay (from Towie) ; 1683-1716, Andrew Livingston (deposed
for joining the Rebellion of 1715).
INTRODUCTION. XV
Kennethmont — i6(?)-i675, Robert Cheyne ; 1676-1687,
Robert Farquharson ; 1687-1738, William Garioch (from
Forbes).
Kildrummy — 1653-1666, William Duncan (from New Kil-
patrick ; 1666-1670, William Glass (from Cushnie) ; 1671-1681,
William Burnett; 1682-1716, John Alexander (deposed for join
ing the Rebellion of 1715).
Leochel — i6(?5i)-i68i, George Watson; 1682-1683, Jonn
Patton (translated to Insch) ; 1683-1707, Alexander Seaton.
Strathdon — 1663-1666, Robert Irving (translated to Towie);
1666-1681, Andrew Abercrombie (translated to Tarland and
Migvie) ; 1681-1717, John Robertson (deposed for joining the
Rebellion of 1715).
Tough — 1653-1662, James Gordon (translated to Alford) ;
1663-1694, John Mair.
Towie — 1648-1666, Adam Barclay (translated to Keig) ;
1666-1707, Robert Irving (from Strathdon).
Tullynessle — 1652-1661, Alexander Youngson ; 1662-1710,
John Walker.
(The foregoing statement regarding the parishes and minis
ters is taken mainly from Scott's " Fasti.")
STIPENDS.
The Act of 1649 was that under which Stipends were at this
time fixed. It authorised a minister's stipend to be augmented
to eight chalders of victual ; or, when teind in kind could not
be conveniently paid, at three chalders, and money for the re
maining five chalders at a rate not exceeding ^100 Scots per
chalder. ^100 Scots would be equal to £8 6s. 8d. Sterling.
xvi INTRODUCTION.
A minister's income would thus be at the maximum some £60
a year, and the glebes are said to have averaged about £^ a
year. A century after this, in 1/50, a report was presented to
the General Assembly showing that out of 833 parishes 704 had
stipends under ^"100 a year, 272 of these being under ^50, and
one ^24. (Was the ,£24 one Glenbucket which at the present
day has only ^24 148. of teind stipend, the rest being Ex
chequer?) Some ministers, or at least some preachers, seem to
have eked out their incomes by keeping taverns. On p. 202 we
find order given by the Bishop that "all licensed to preach, and
yet exercise civil offices, such as keepers of inns
are to be noticed."
CHURCHES.
At this time Church architecture was not of a high order.
The Churches generally, and particularly in country districts
such as ours, were of the plainest. There are the remains of
several old Churches in the district — Auchindoir, Cushnic,
Forbes, Kearn, Keig — some of them more some less ruinous.
From them we have no difficulty in ascertaining what kind of
buildings our seventeenth century Churches were. Glenbucket
is the only Church (unaltered or little altered) worshipped in now
that was worshipped in from 1662-1688. All the others have
been either rebuilt or remodelled. In our description we shall
have in view the old Kirk of Keig as being best known to us.
It was used for worship until 1834. The walls are still stand
ing, and from these we get a very good idea of what Churches
in our district, and, indeed, throughout Scotland, were in the
seventeenth century. All were similar.
INTRODUCTION. xvii
The buildings were long, narrow, low in the roof, so low that
the people in the galleries could not stand erect, and a tall
person under the galleries must have been similarly circum
stanced. The doors (2) and the windows were in the South
wall, occasionally a window in the East or West gable, but
none in the North wall. The windows were few and small, and
the Church must have been very badly lighted. The pulpit was
placed about the middle of the South wall. There were gener
ally galleries in the East and West ends, and sometimes also a
gallery in front of the minister. Part of the gallery was fre
quently what was called the "common loft," and was let to those
to whom no space was allocated. The entrance to the gallery was
often by an outside stair — in Keig a stone stair at the West end.
The area of the church was divided among the heritors accord
ing to their rentals. There were no pews, as in the Churches
now. The heritors put in "desks" for themselves. Some others
also did so. But the people in general had chairs or stools
which they brought for their own use, and which they could
remove when they pleased. Often quarrels arose about the
desks, one man removing another's, or putting his in the space
another claimed. We have several instances of such quarrels.
There was no proper flooring in the Church, perhaps coarse flag
stones along the passages and a board for the feet — it is so in
Glenbucket still — but often no flooring at all, just the earth.
And as to the roofing that was mostly of heather. In 1757 the
Presbytery minute bears that heather and clay were to be
procured for repairing Cushnie Kirk. In 1680 Kildrummy
Church is reported to be "in sufficient repair save what was
wanting in the loss of some heather." (p. 315.)
xviii INTRODUCTION.
MANSES.
These it would appear were no better than the Churches,
frequently even worse, though perhaps quite in keeping with
the houses of the period. Like the kirks they seem to have
been long and narrow. At first the parish manses were built
and kept in repair by the ministers themselves. When the
minister died or left the place the buildings were " appretiated "
to his successor. Examples of this, Keig p. 98 ; others pp. 321,
347-
In 1649 it was decided that a manse for every parish minister
was to be provided by the heritors. The heritors had secured
the larger share of the Church's property, and it was only fair,
no hardship, that the building of Churches and manses should
be laid upon them. The seventeenth century manses were,
however, neither very elegant nor very expensive structures,
but were mostly erected at the least possible cost. Like many
other houses of the period, they were built of clay and turf, and
thatched with heather. A fact or two from our own bounds will
give the best idea of what the manses were. In 1/07 we
find in the Presbytery minutes complaint made that the manse
of Glenbucket has never been divided by partitions, that it is
without stairs and glass windows. In 1779, little more than
a hundred years ago, it is stated that in Kearn manse there are
no slab stones for the fire except in one room — Manses in other
places were similar.
GLEBES, ETC.
From Duncan's "Parochial Law" we learn that Act 1644
conferred on Presbyteries the power to design glebes at every
parish Church. Act 1663 declares that every minister, except
INTRODUCTION. XIX
those in Royal Burghs, shall have grass for a horse and two
cows in addition to the glebes designated by other statutes, and
shall also have " fewel, foggage, feal, and devots."
In these former times when minister and people alike lived
on home produce the glebe was indispensable. Cattle had to be
kept to do the ploughing, as well as to supply milk, &c., for the
family. Then there were, we may say, no roads. Consequently
all travelling had to be done on foot or on horseback. Hence
the pony — the minister's pony or "sheltie" — was needed to con
vey him to the Presbytery, to the Synod, and even to the
General Assembly, as well as to other places.
Some of these things seem strange to us now. But into the
present century ministers from Alforcl Presbytery going to Edin
burgh to attend the General Assembly often went on horseback.
Sometimes the horse was only taken so far, to a place from
which a coach started, and either left there till the minister's
return, or taken back by his "man" who had been sent on before
for the purpose, in due course going back to meet the minister
when the Assembly was over.
Before coming to what we have to say about the Church, it
may be well to try to get some idea of the religious and social
condition, of the country at the time. This will help us the better
to understand the state of things with which the Church had to
deal in our district, as well as throughout Scotland. For, looking
at our " Record" and other similar " Records," the number and
nature of the " discipline cases " in these, one would be apt to
conclude that the condition of the people was most deplorable,
lawlessness and licentiousness running riot everywhere, and this,
as some would have us believe, caused mainly, if not entirely, by
XX INTRODUCTION.
the restoration of the monarchy — a revolution in government
and a revolution in morals going hand in hand. We shall see if
such a conclusion is altogether warranted.
Now there can be no doubt that, with the death of Cromwell
and the accession of Charles II., Puritan rule and Puritan ways
may be said, in a great measure, to have come to an end in our
country. People had chafed a good deal under the firm rule of
the Protector. That rule was beneficial for the country. The
peaceable and well disposed were protected. Lawlessness was
restrained. The different parties in Church and State were
prevented attacking and persecuting each other. In the words
of Macaulay, "Under no government since the Reformation had
there been so little religious persecution." Cromwell's, however,
was a government borne with rather than liked. But, if the
country was to enjoy peace and prosperity, it required for its
ruler one who would "stand no nonsense," but who would firmly
and fearlessly restrain the turbulent and the lawless. No
smooth easy matter was that, not one to win affection or earn
gratitude. Too many had to be curbed, and consequently
offended. To compel the proud fierce barons of Scotland, its
numerous chiefs and their retainers, its ambitious and by no
means peace-loving and brotherly-minded clergy, its poor down
trodden but withal brave brawl loving peasantry, to become,
outwardly at least, law abiding, and refrain from their turbulence
and massacres, this was no mean achievement. But Cromwell
did it. Still, though obeyed, he was not liked, neither he nor
his ways. And so when the restraining hand was lifted there
was sure to be a rebound, very likely to the opposite extreme.
This is just what happened at the Restoration. The Puritans
had entirely lost their popularity and their power. In the Court
and high places of the land the very name of Puritan became a
byword and a reproach. The king himself "lived an evil life,
INTRODUCTION. XXI
and set an example which men who had been forced into
hypocrisy by the piety of the Puritans were only too ready to
follow. The reign of Charles II. is one of the most disgraceful
times in our history " (Creighton). And no doubt a licentious
sovereign and court are a great calamity to a country. Specially
must this have been so when immorality in royal circles was
regarded with easy tolerance, and awoke in the nation generally
no sentiment of disgust and resentment. The effect could not
but be bad, the influence of the example wholly evil. Again,
the severe and unwise restraints of Puritanism, its prohibition of
even innocent enjoyments, its too often stern and repulsive
aspect and ways, the rebound from these was sure to go too far
in the opposite direction, lead men of little principle to throw off
all restraint, and give loose reign to their evil passions.
But these things — the example of the king and his courtiers,
the now prevalent dislike of Puritanism — though they may
account to a considerable extent for the excesses that followed
the Restoration, yet do not account for everything. We must
seek other reasons as well as these. The conclusion to which
we are forced to come is, that much of the vaunted virtue of the
former period must have been on the surface, put on not felt, a
semblance not a reality. We are quite aware that Kirkton and
others have delineated the state of Scotland under the Common
wealth in most glowing colours, making it a golden age as
regards religion and morality. The picture, we regret to have
to confess it, must be taken cum granc, and that a very large
one. " Not an oath," we are told, "was heard, not a child but
could read the Bible, not a family in which the worship of God
was not observed." One could wish it true. But in the Records
of the time — both civil and ecclesiastical — we have only too sad
evidence that vice still prevailed in our land, that scandals many
and most disgraceful were prevalent. It is best to confess this.
INTRODUCTION.
No good purpose is ever served by concealing the truth The
profligacy that disgraced the age, scandals such as we meet
with in our •' Record," ignorance, and superstition, and kindred
evils, tnese were not things of sudden growth. It was no case
of the spontaneous generation of evil. A nation, any more than
[dividual, does not all at once become licentious The seed
was m the ground, the plants were in existence that produced
seed, though men perhaps did not recognise the one or the
this, we think, explains how the "nation swung so
quickly arid so easily, seemingly all at once, from the austerities
f the Covenant to the most reckless and unprincipled dissipa-
Lhe truth, we believe, is, that not a few who in Puritan
days assumed the saintly guise, when it was safer and more pro
fitable to do so, must at heart have been base. Many such it is
:1 m the constant practice of fraud, and rapacity, and
secret debauchery." The evil heart was there all the while
Jh so far hid from public gaze, kept under restraint by
selfish fear, or selfish policy.
THE CHURCH— ITS FORM OF GOVERNMENT-
WORSHIP— DISCIPLINE.
The Form of Church Government. This was Episcopal. In
England, at the Restoration, the old Church polity was very
easily restored, and with the full approval of the great majority
of the English nation. Bishops and the other arrangements
episcopacy had for a time been suppressed, but still the
people hankered after them, and very willingly returned to them
It was different in Scotland. Though now and then since
formation, Episcopacy, by royal favour and power
INTRODUCTION. xxiii
became the Established Church, yet the change, when not
keenly opposed, was rather outwardly submitted to than heartily
adopted and approved. Presbyterianism seemed more suited to
the genius of the Scotch in matters ecclesiastical. And had
they been left to their own free will, uninterfered with by royal
power or local influence, everything seems to show that they
would have preferred a church on Presbyterian lines. Nothing
could drive a large portion of them to abandon that and acqui
esce in Episcopacy, not the dread persecutions and cruelties of
twenty-five years. And although in the Northern parts of the
country, particularly in Aberdeenshire, under the wise and con
siderate rule of Patrick Scougal, who was Bishop during the
greater portion of the period we are dealing with, ministers and
people so far conformed to prelacy, yet there cannot have been
any great heart attachment to it. But for the fact that the lairds
of the district mostly adhered to Episcopacy, and that the sur
vival of something of the old feudal spirit and feeling of clanship
led the people to follow, or at least not to oppose the laird, we
doubt if matters even here would have gone as smoothly as
they did. Dr. Cunningham's words in regard to the Reforma
tion from Popery may, in a measure, be applied to the restora
tion of Episcopacy, " Feudalism was still strong in Scotland,
and the faith of the lord naturally became the faith of the
retainer." ("Church History" I., 218.)
We are not saying these things in a partizan spirit. Our
duty and our wish are to state the truth as far as we can discover
it, not to act as special pleader for any party or system. All
our study of the period, indeed of the history of Scotland from
the Reformation in 1560 to the Revolution in 1688, constrains
us to conclude that the country at heart was Presbyterian, that
Presbyterianism and not Episcopacy was the Church polity
favoured and desired by the great majority of the people. There
xxiv INTRODUCTION.
might be, we think there was, a time when, under the wise and
tolerant rule of such Bishops as Lcighton of Dunblane and
Scougal of Aberdeen, Episcopacy might have been accepted.
But Archbishops and Bishops such as Sharp and others, his and
their contemporaries and successors, destroyed its every chance.
The people might have been led into prelacy, but would not be
driven or dragooned into it. The dour Scottish spirit and sturdy
Scottish character made that impossible. This is not simply our
conclusion. It is the conclusion come to by fair and candid
writers, whether Episcopalian or Presbyterian. Stephen (Epis
copalian) in his "History of the Scottish Church" (II., 338) says
very truly " Many things shew that moderate constitutional
Episcopacy never had a chance in Scotland under the Stuarts."
We can do little more than indicate the. measures adopted,
and the methods taken by the king and his supporters for the
overthrow of Presbyterianism and the establishment of Epis
copacy. These are well known.
In January 1661 the Scottish parliament, at the instigation
of Commissioner Middleton, passed the famous Redssory Act,
which pronounced illegal and cancelled all the legislation of the
last twenty-five years, thus sweeping away at one stroke every
thing done by the Presbyterian Church, or in its favour, during
that period. The result of course was the abolition of Presbytery
as the Established Church, and the restoration of Episcopacy, by
what means and with what consequences we know. Act after
Act was passed to compel conformity to the Established Church
and attendance on its worship. Persecution, a persecution in
some of its aspects of the cruellest and most revolting kind, was
tried, but in vain. The Presbyterian spirit could neither be re
pressed nor destroyed. The harshness led to reprisals. It is
sure to be so in such circumstances as those then existing in
INTRODUCTION. XXV
Scotland. When the law fails to give the protection it should,
and under its name injustice and cruelty are perpetrated, men
are apt to take the law into their own hands, and wreak a rude
vengeance on the wrongdoer. It is most unfortunate when this
is so. But the blame, for it is not altogether on one side. No
impartial person will deny that by Presbyterians, in these times
of persecution, deeds were done all now regret and condemn.
No more will any one deny that the provocation was great, the
sufferings that had to be borne, if men would not conform to an
Ecclesiastical system of which in their consciences they dis
approved, were more than human nature can patiently endure.
There seemed no hope of relief.
We do not mean, it would be most unfair to do so, to lay on
Episcopacy all the blame of what happened during these twenty-
six years of persecution. We gladly say so. It was, we believe,
not the system itself which was so objectionable to the Scottish
people, but the steps taken and the means used to force it on the
nation. Where wisely and considerately administered, as it was
by Leighton and Scougal, all, on the whole, went on smoothly,
the people in general conforming. Its Bishops, however, except
Leighton and Scougal, and perhaps one or two others, were not
men beloved and trusted by the people. It was in a great
measure, the way in which the Bishops and other supporters
of Episcopacy acted that proved so fatal to the system, and
raised against it in the hearts of the Scottish people a feeling, a
prejudice, not altogether dead even at the present day. And so
when at length the Stuarts were driven from the throne, and the
will of the nation could be freely expressed, Scottish Presbytery
triumphed. Its vitality still survived, notwithstanding all that
had been done to crush it, and cow the people into submission.
The readiness with which the great majority of the nation,
xxvi INTRODUCTION.
ministers and people alike, conformed once more to Presby
tery, shows, we think, that Episcopacy had taken no great
hold on the people.
Comino- to the events of our district we find that when Epis-
O
copacy was restored all the ministers in Alford Presbytery con
formed. In Aberdeenshire the great majority did so. The
Bishops of Aberdeen seem to have acted prudently and con
siderately. Patrick Scougal, who was Bishop for nearly eighteen
of the twenty-six years of Episcopacy, was a man of highest
character and moderate views, whose bearing tended to conciliate
opposition, not to provoke it. The consequence was that, on the
whole, all went peaceably in his diocese. We have no record here
of tyrannous conduct towards and cruel persecutions of Presby
terians, such as took place in other dioceses ; and which form so
dark and disgraceful a page in Scottish history. No doubt this was,
in part at least, owing to the conduct of the ministers and people
themselves. The former conformed, and the people seem to
have adhered to their ministers. And when anyone did begin
to have scruples the Bishop's advice to the Presbyteries was to
deal tenderly with him. This allowed time for reflection, and
so did not irritate and harden the doubter as hasty and harsh
measures would almost certainly have done. Thus did Bishop
Scougal follow the things that make for peace, and he had his
reward in the peace that prevailed generally in his diocese.
Even here, however, in Alford Presbytery, we can see now
and then evidence in the proceedings of the Presbytery that the
patience and submission of ministers and people were sometimes
severely enough strained. As time passes on, complaints begin
to be made that the thanksgivings in honour of the king, are not
so well attended as they used to be. Occasionally it is even
stated that no one or very few came to the service. This of
INTRODUCTION. XXVli
itself shows the waning popularity of the king, that the people
had lost their regard for him.
Again the Bishop himself is said to have been opposed to
the Test Act of 1681. This Act placed Church and people alike
at the mercy of the king. It required every person who held
any office whatever to swear that he "acknowledged the king to
be supreme in all causes and over all persons, both civil and
ecclesiastical ; that he would never consult about any matter of
State without His Majesty's express licence or command ; and
never endeavour any alteration in the government of the
country." The nation began to be alarmed at such Acts.
Clergy and politicians alike were roused, and raised objections —
all except those who in parliament, without either spirit or
patriotism, had passed the Act. So formidable did the opposi
tion become that an Act of Council sanctioned by the king was
passed, with the object of explaining the difficulties of objectors,
and smoothing down the rising discontent. Most were so far
satisfied. Some eighty of the clergy in Scotland, however, re
fused to take the oath, and left their parishes rather than do so.
In Alford Presbytery the same objections as elsewhere were felt
against the Act. Two ministers at anyrate were deprived of
their livings for refusing to take the Test, viz : Adam Barclay,
Keig; and William Burnett, Kildrummy. Two more viz: James
Irvine, Cabrach, and Thomas Gairdyne, Clatt, were probably
removed for the same reason, as they also left their parishes in
1681. Then William Johnstone who is mentioned in our
" Record " as not "cleared of scruples anent the Test Act"
(p. 329) is said to have been ordained at Kearn without taking
the Test.
xxviii INTRODUCTION.
Church Courts. Under Episcopacy these were three in
number viz : the Kirk-Session, the Presbytery, and the Synod.
The General Assembly was suppressed, but otherwise there was
little change.
The Kirk-Session. This existed in each parish very much
as at present. It consisted of the minister and a certain number
of men generally chosen for their influence and social position.
(As to their duties, &c., see p. 3 and Note 6 p. 401.) In these
olden times the office of elder was often neither very popular,
nor much coveted, and no wonder considering the nature and
amount of work elders had to do. In the time of the "Curates,"
refusal to accept office became so common that " King Charles
issued a proclamation empowering them to make their own
selection of elders in their respective parishes, and ordering
those so chosen to accept office within fifteen days under pain
of rebellion." ("St. Giles' Lectures," p. 229.)
The Presbytery (or Exercise). This consisted of the minis
ters of so many parishes. Under Presbytery, the moderator —
the president of the meetings — was appointed by the members
themselves, and was frequently changed, each member in turn
taking the duty. But under Episcopacy the moderator was
appointed by the Bishop and generally the same minister was
continued for a number of years. In some Dioceses the Presby
teries were, occasionally at least, permitted to appoint their
moderators. There are instances of this being done in Dunblane
Synod under Leighton. Here, however, the appointments seem
to have been always made by the Bishops.
The Presbyteries met frequently, and the meetings were
often lengthy, beginning early in the day, and sometimes con
tinuing till late in the evening. The meeting was opened by
INTRODUCTION. XXIX
prayer. Then one of the members — each in turn — had an
" exercise " on some portion of Scripture prescribed at a
previous meeting. The appointment runs thus, " Mr.
was appointed to 'exercise,' or to 'exercise and add,' or Mr.
to 'exercise,' and Mr. 'to add." The ''exer
cising" was expounding the portion of Scripture, the "adding"
was making additional remarks. Then the other members ex
pressed their opinions of the performance. These were not
always laudatory, but at times bluntly candid. For instance,
on p. 157 we read, "Mr. John Irving having exercised
and he being censured for some imprudence and
want of exact method of exercise and addition, was gravely
admonished therefor."
It was from this practice of the brethren "exercising" at
their meetings, that what we now call the " Presbytery " was at
first and occasionally afterwards called the " Exercise."
Far the greater portion of the time at the meetings of the
Presbytery was taken up with Discipline cases. Every step in
every case had to be reported to the Presbytery by the Session,
and instructions given as to further procedure. Under the head
" Discipline," p. xxxv, we speak more particularly of these cases.
Then among other duties of the Presbytery was the examin
ing of young men for licence to preach. Also when the proba
tioner received a presentation to a parish, it was lodged with
the Bishop, who remitted him to the Presbytery to be taken on
trials for ordination. As to trials for licence and ordination see
Note 8, p. 402.
Regular attendance at Presbytery meetings was required.
The names of the "absents" are always entered in the minute,
and those absent had to give a satisfactory reason for their
xxx INTRODUCTION.
absence, or be censured, sometimes also fined. The members,
too, had to attend during the whole meeting, not merely put in
an appearance and then depart.
The Synod. The Synod consisted of a certain number of
Presbyteries. It is now called the Provincial Synod, because it
embraces a district or province of the country. Under Episco
pacy it was called the Diocesan Synod, because it was formed of
the ministers in a Bishop's Diocese. The Synods usually met
twice a year, and the meetings lasted for at least two or three
days. The Bishop presided over the meetings, though his
power was not absolute— the enactments always running thus—
"The Bishop, with consent of the brethren of the Synod."
In its power and jurisdiction the Synod then more resembled
the General Assembly than the Synod of the present day. It
supervised, we may say, all the actings of the inferior courts-
Presbytery and Session— passed Acts and framed rules for tfie
government of the church in such things as worship, discipline,
&c. It examined the Registers or Minute Books of the several
Presbyteries, just as the Presbyteries examined those of the
respective Sessions within their bounds. (Here we cannot help
remarking that we see from our "Record," that every Session and
Presbytery had its Register, though unhappily most of these old
parish Registers are entirely lost). At the meetings there was a
"diet for privy censure," each Presbytery having to undergo
that. At the Synod, as at the Presbytery, stringent rules were
made to ensure the attendance of the members.
Worship. Under Episcopacy in Scotland there was very
little difference in the mode of worship from what it had been
under Presbytery. So far as we can see, almost the only
differences were that, in the Episcopal period, ministers more
INTRODUCTION. XXXI
frequently used the Lord's Prayer, the Creed, and the Doxology,
had religious services on Christmas day, and frequently the
Communion at Easter, and also observed certain anniversaries,
especially the izj-th of October, and the 2Qth of May, the anni
versaries of the king's birth and restoration.
Somehow it used to be the idea, we rather think it is so yet
in some quarters, that the great distinction between Episco
palians and Presbyterians in Scotland was that, in worship, the
former used a liturgy, the latter did not, that, by the Scotch,
Episcopacy was disliked and contended against from disapproval
of a liturgical service — read prayers, &c. Indeed, the popular
opinion in regard to the Jenny Geddes riot in St. Giles's, in
1637, seems to be that it was caused by the officiating clergyman
attempting to read prayers in that day's service. This is an
entire mistake. For eighty-five years — from 1 560-1645 — a liturgy
was in use in the Church of Scotland, viz: from 1560-1564
the Book of Geneva and from 1564-1645 the Book of Common
Order — Knoxs Liturgy. That very morning, as is well
known, the prayers would, as usual, be read from the Book of
Common Order. The objection — what roused the people and
caused the outbreak — was, not reading prayers from a Book,
but the attempt to introduce a neiv Book — Laud 's Liticrgy — and
so supersede what the people regarded as specially their own
liturgy — introduce, as the masses thought, a liturgy tinged with
popery. After the riot was over, and matters had settled down,
the Book of Common Order continued to be used as before, not
exclusively, it is right to say, for liberty was granted to use
extempore prayers as well. It was quite customary to have in
the same service the prayers partly read and partly (so called)
extempore. It was not till after the Westminster Directory was
drawn up and adopted (1645) that the Book of Common Order
XXX11 INTRODUCTION.
ceased to be used. But when Episcopacy was restored in 1662,
the Westminster Directory was discarded, and the Book of
Common Order enjoined. It continued in use throughout the
Episcopal period we have to deal with — the Episcopal Church
using the Presbyterian liturgy, in a great measure just as the
Presbyterians themselves had done.
On Sundays the congregations generally — in summer at
least — met twice for worship. The services were what now we
would consider very long. If the two services were not held,
the Presbytery inquired into the reason of the omission. Some
times curious reasons were given. For instance, the minister
of Glenbucket when called to account by the Presbytery for not
preaching in the afternoon in summer, excused himself by
saying what hindered him was, "the falling down of the uvula
of his craig, occasioned by his preaching in the forenoon,
but that in place thereof he frequently catechised." The excuse
was sustained.
Account, too, was regularly taken as to the dispensation of
the communion in the several parishes. It was also ordered that
the texts from which the ministers preached should be regularly
entered in the Session Books.
But ecclesiastical supervision did not stop here — ministerial
dress as well as ministerial duty was regulated by the Church
Courts. It is said that previous to the Reformation the Scottish
clergy wore showy garments. The Protestant clergy, however,
disapproved of these. They, we are told, "clothed themselves
in hodden grey, wore coloured neckerchiefs, and gowns of blue
serge." In the Highlands, ministers wore the Highland dress.
At a meeting of the Synod of Moray in 1624, report was made
that "the brethren haunts the Presbytrie with uncomly habits,
such as bonats, plaides ; whairfor the Assembly ordaines them
INTRODUCTION. XXXlii
not to haunt the Presbytrie any mair with uncomly habitts."
The order does not seem to have been universally obeyed. In
1671 a Mr. Rodericke M'Kenzie is ordained by the Presbytery
of Inverness "to goe in a ministeriall habite when he went to
set about any pairt of his work" ("Inverness, &c. Presbytery
Records," p. 11). The habit ministers were ordained to wear is
thus given in our " Record" (pp. 5 and 34), they are to "have a
cassock coat," and " abstaine from all lyght and new fangled
garments in colour and fashion and in particular
that they have not powdered or long hair, varietie or multitude
of ribbons, varietie in their linnens." Buj: the General Assembly,
which at first tried to regulate everything, undertook what now
at anyrate would be a rather hopeless task, to regulate the dress
not merely of the ministers, but also of their wives. They were
forbidden to wear " all kinds of light and variant hues in cloth
ing, as red, blue, yellow, and such like " ; also " silk hats and
hats of divers bright colours, also rings, bracelets, buttons of
silver, gold, and other metal."
But the people were looked after as well as the ministers.
If the ministers were compelled to have services, care was taken
that the people should attend these. By Episcopalians and
Presbyterians alike attendance on worship was rigorously en
forced. Whichever party was in power all had to conform to
that, or suffer persecution. Religious toleration was unknown.
The adherents, too, of the Church had to be regularly at the
services, or give a satisfactory excuse for absence. (Under
Discipline, we mention some of the means taken to enforce
attendance.)
Gaelic does not seem to have been used in the Church
services in our bounds. We infer this from its never being
mentioned in connection with the settlement of ministers in our
xxxiv TNTRODUCTIOX.
Presbytery. It was, however, the language generally spoken at
this time in the upper part of the Presbytery, and was taught
in the schools. Indeed, it continued to be so long aft
period. In 1745 the Presbytery is asked to retain the service
of a Mr M'Lennan, the itinerant preacher at Corgarff, because
of his great usefulness, and success in keeping the people from
going over to Popery, "on account of his having the Inst
language." As late as 1766 schoolmasters were required
teach " Erse" as well as English in the " Highland parishes of
the Presbytery, Strathclon, &c." There was also in the Presby
tery what is called the " Highland Library," kept sometimes at
one manse, sometimes at another. A list of the books is entered
in the Presbytery Record, 6th December, 1710.
the books are, we believe, still in existence, and are in a library
in Strathdon parish,
Fast Days. At this period in our district, there, do not seem
to have been any Fast days so-called, or preaching days, in
connection with the observance of the Lord's Supper, though
they were common enough in the South of Scotland at the time.
For other purposes, however, fast days, thanksgivings, days of
humiliation, &c., were frequent enough. They were held for
objects both national and local, for victories or defeats, pestilence,
bad or good harvests, and the like.
Catechising. Another feature of the ecclesiastical life of the
time was the Catechisings. These were connected with the
minister's visitations of his parish. They might be held in each
family. More generally, however, the parish was divided into
districts, and so many families— old and young, masters and
servants— met at certain places, the school, or a farmer's
kitchen, or other suitable place. Devotional exercises were
INTRODUCTION. XXXV
engaged in ; but the great feature of the meetings was the
exercise in the Shorter Catechism. So many questions in it
were gone over, the minister "asking" a question, and each
one present in his or her turn having to repeat the answer.
Sometimes all, old and young alike, had to "say a question."
Then the minister asked or gave an explanation of what had
been said. Some ministers bore a great character for their
" Catacheesings," and were quite a terror to those not well up
in the " Carritches." Still, all attended, no one in those times
daring to be absent without a good reason. The practice is a
thing of the past, scarcely if at all known now-a-days, although
the name is sometimes given to the minister's visitations at the
present day.
Discipline. This in each parish was the business of the
minister and his elders (the Kirk -Session). Matters, civil as well
as ecclesiastical, came under their cognisance and jurisdiction.
In these former times the church concerned itself with the life
of the people in a way and to an extent we can scarcely under
stand, and which would neither be attempted nor submitted to
now-a-days. In addition to breaches of the seventh command
ment, the elders had to look after such things as the following: — •
those not attending the church, swearing, drunkenness, charm
ing, quarrels in families, people " ilyting " each other, try to
reconcile ill-matched couples and quarrelsome neighbours, report
as to people frequenting alehouses, sometimes visit these on
Sabbath previous to Church service in order to bring those
found in them to Church, also visit them after the service was
over to see that people did not remain too long in them.
As alehouses are frequently referred to in our " Record" we
may say a word regarding them. They were very common in
the country at this period, though not very conducive to the
xxxvi INTRODUCTION.
moral improvement of the people, if we may judge from the
allusions made to them in the Church Courts. At nearly every
Church was the little hamlet — the Kirktown or Ciachan — and in
it at least one alehouse, frequently more than one. Often yet we
find around the country kirk a little quaint old village, and in it
not unfrequently a licensed house. In not a few places, how
ever, the " Kirktoun" with its alehouse has entirely disappeared,
though in old Records we find both mentioned as existing where
there is no " toun " now, not even a solitary cottage.
Most of the Records of Kirk-Sessions of this period have
been lost. There can be no doubt, however, that their meetings,
as well as those of Presbytries, were, in a great measure, taken
up with discipline cases. These in general came first before the
Session, but for one reason or another had almost always to
come before the Presbytery also. In this way we get, from
the minutes of Presbytery, a good idea of the nature and amount
of work Sessions had to do.
The punishment or penalties inflicted on offenders were
varied enough and often severe enough. Some of them, such
as the public appearance in Church before the congregation
Sabbath after Sabbath must have had a crushing effect on a
person any way sensitive, a hardening effect on those already
hardened.
The most common form of punishment was public appear
ance in Church. Every Church at that time had three things,
whatever else it wanted - - the pulpit for the minister, the
" lateran " (desk) for the precentor, and the "place or stool of
repentance" for offenders. In the erection and division of
Churches provision was made for the stool of repentance, and a
place set apart for it (see Tough, p. 137). This latter was
INTRODUCTION. xxxvii
generally an open space in front of the pulpit, and in it was
placed the "stool" or "pillar" of repentance. On this the
subject of discipline sat. In all cases public appearance in
Church for a prescribed number of times had to be made,
and public rebuke received. In the more serious cases, such
as adultery, &c., the offender had to appear in sackcloth (in
sacco] and " bareheaded " — " barefooted " and with "one side
of the head shaven " are also sometimes added, though the two
latter are not mentioned in our " Record." In this guise, and in
face of the congregation, he had to sit on the stool of repentance
Sunday after Sunday. There are instances of this being con
tinued for six months, even longer. Also when the scandal was
connected with other parishes the delinquent was condemned
to go through the same process in the different Churches.
The reason for being "bareheaded" was this: at the time, the
custom was for the people to sit in Church with the head
covered. Those guilty of offences sat in the place of repentance
" bareheaded," and were thus distinguished from the rest of the
congregation, and exposed to public gaze.
Another form of punishment frequent throughout Scotland
was the "jougs." An iron collar was put round the neck, and
fastened by a chain to a tree, or pillar, near the Church door, or
to the wall of the Church, and the offender had to stand chained
day after day, seen by all the people as they passed by to the
Church. This was a punishment inflicted by the civil courts as
well as by the Church. Each burgh would seem to have had its
"jougs," and an officer to carry out its sentences — take those so
sentenced to the cross, and put the "jougs" on them. As late
as 1 703 the Magistrates of Banff order a certain Elizabeth Syme,
for cursing her mistress and other reviling expressions used, " to
be banished furth of the town, and if she return she is to be
INTRODUCTION.
scourged by the hand of the hangman, and put in the joggs."
("Annals of Banff," New Spalding Club, 1. 175.) In our "Record"
there is no mention of any one sentenced to stand in the "jougs,"
though the punishment was quite commonly inilicted by the
Church Courts at this period. For instance, in " Annals of
Banff" (under "77/6' Church,") II. 48-9, Dr. Cramond gives these
cases, " October 2 (1670), Janet Sherrae for her lewd conversa
tion is ordained to stand in joggs and sackcloth"; and again,
"July 26 (1673), Patrick Moorison and his wife, for their
scandalous carriage to one another, are enjoyned the following
Sabbath in sacco to stand in joggs betwixt the second and third
bell, then incontinentlie to betake themselves to the public stool
of repentance, and with open voice before the whole congrega
tion acknowledge their offensive behaviour."
Fines or "pecunial penalties" were also exacted as part of
the discipline. Sometimes offenders compounded for appearing
on the stool of repentance by paying a heavy fine; also by
paying something more than the usual penalty parties were let
off with fewer appearances before the congregation. For
instance, in Keig Session Record such entries as the following
occur — 1755 October 5, a woman pleads to be absolved for one
appearance before the congregation .... and promises
to give more than the ordinary penalty if this is agreed to. It
is agreed to, and the penalty is made " ios., 33. more than
ordinary." On January 4th 1756, a man urges a similar plea,
and is absolved for one day's appearance, paying " £6, £2 more
than usual." But " the Session, finding all urging the same
plea," it was agreed on February i5th "to absolve none in
future except on payment of £S Scots, ^4 more than the usual
penalty."
INTRODUCTION. XXXIX
The fines in connection with discipline came, and that
naturally enough, to be regarded as buying an indulgence, pur
chasing pardon. They went mainly for the support of the poor.
Their exaction continued long, in some places to a period
within the recollection of people still living. In the course of
time payment of the money became very unpopular. Sessions
had great difficulty in enforcing payment. Gradually the thing
was given up, discipline in this respect as in others undergoing
great changes.
Another form of discipline was Excommunication. This was
to be pronounced on what were called ''obstinate offenders."
When the means taken to bring a man to the confession of his
sin and submission to the Church's discipline failed, on him the
sentence of excommunication was pronounced. Until he re
pented and received the Church's absolution he was regarded
as given over to Satan. " None, saving his wife and family
might have any dealings in eating or drinking, in buying or
selling, in saluting or talking with the excommunicated man."
(See further on this subject Note 7., p. 402.)
The Church often had its difficulties in getting offenders to
submit. Against those refusing a long process had to be gone
through — thrice cited, thrice prayed for, perhaps the names
intimated from all the pulpits in the Presbytery, &c., all the
resources of the Church put in operation. We have a good
instance of this in the case of Innes of Sinnahard. By persis
tence the Church generally prevailed in the end, no matter
what might be the offender's rank or station. The great did
not escape. As far back as 1574, the General Assembly had
enacted that "great men offending in sic crymes as deserves
sackcloath, they shall receive the sament as well as the puire."
(" Book of Universal Kirk" p. 139.) In our " Record " many
xl INTRODUCTION.
cases occur of persons threatening not to submit, and resisting
for a time, but in the end being compelled to yield. Instances
might be given of the highest in the land undergoing the
severest, and what would now be considered the most humiliat
ing censures, e.g. in 1567, Lady Argyle, for "giving her
assistance and presence to the baptizing of the king in ane
papisticall manner " was ordained " to make publick repentance
in the Chapell Royall of Stirling, upon ane Sunday, in tyme of
preaching.'' (" Book of Universal Kirk," p. 73.) In 1612
(Episcopal period) two noblemen connected with this district,
Huntly and Erroll, were excommunicated and banished from
the country for their adherence to popery. Any number of
similar cases could be given. " Great men received the sament
as the puire."
In treating of discipline it is right to state that many of the
things which Church Courts had to deal with in former times are
now under the charge of our rural police and civil Courts.
Some of the things, as witchcraft, charming, and the like, have
disappeared. The spread of intelligence has proved fatal to
them. And though unhappily cases of wrongdoing and
scandals of uncleanness are only too prevalent still, yet no one,
we think, looking at the cases in this "Record," coming before the
Church Courts, can doubt that improvement in morals has taken
place. Our Presbyteries and Kirk-Sessions are not now at
every meeting, and these very frequent, occupied with perhaps
fifteen or twenty cases of scandal. Formerly, nearly every kind
of offence, great or small, civil as well as ecclesiastical, was dealt
with by the Church. In this way our old Church Records —
though many things in them are anything but savoury reading,
much which decency forbids us to produce — show us more fully
than can be learned elsewhere, a life picture of the moral
and social, as well as religious condition of our people at the
INTRODUCTION. xli
time. The picture, in many respects, is not a flattering one.
1 oo true it is that superstition, ignorance, vice, coarseness,
violence, and other evils were widely prevalent. But we may
easily go too far in drawing unfavourable conclusions. Certain
things must be borne in mind. The picture may appear fully as
blurred and bloated as it really is. The side presented to our
view may be the worst, or it may be only the stained portion of
it we are inspecting. It would not be right to infer the moral
condition of a district in these former times from the record of
the discipline cases brought before a Church Court, any more
than it would be right to infer the moral state of a district now
from the cases brought before a Police Court. The great
majority of our people then did not come as delinquents before
our Church Courts, any more than the great majority now come
as criminals before our Police Courts. It is only the wrong
doers real or suspected we have a record of, and however many
they be, or however bad their conduct, they are but few in
number compared with the well-conducted of whom we hear
nothing.
Education. It will be noticed that on the visitation of
parishes by the Presbytery one of the inquiries always made
was, if there was a schoolmaster and what provision there was
for his support. In Roman Catholic times, though Universities
had been established at St. Andrews, Glasgow, and Aberdeen,
and Grammar Schools in several of the principal towns, yet little
or nothing had been clone to provide for the general education
of the people. The great bulk of the nation was uneducated,
very few being able to read and write.
From the first the Reformed Church, alike under Presbytery
and Episcopacy, took a deep interest in education, and used
every means to get schools established throughout the country,
xlii INTRODUCTION.
one at least in every parish. On this subject Dr. Cunningham
says (I. 506-7), " The Reformers showed their anxiety to extend
education In the First Book of Discipline it
was proposed that every Church should have a school attached
to it ; that every notable town should have a college ; and that
the existing Universities should be liberally endowed. The
greed of the nobles prevented the scheme from being carried
into effect, and with them rests the sin and the shame, of keeping
Scotland for many years longer in gross ignorance." By them
the money that should have gone to provide schools was selfishly
retained. In spite of king, parliament, Bishop, Presbytery,
many a parish continued till long after our period without a
school. The result was that ignorance prevailed with all its
attendant evils, superstition, coarseness, impurity, intemperance,
and the like. And when schools were provided, in very many
cases everything was of the most wretched description. The
salary, schoolhouse, and schoolroom were disgraceful, the salary
the least, and the building the worst the heritors could get off
with. To show what was considered sufficient provision for the
schoolmaster in former times it may be mentioned that the Act
of 1696 — and things would be worse not better previously-
fixed the teacher's salary at 100 merks (^5 us. i/^d.) for the
minimum, and 200 merks (^n 2s. 2;3d.) for the maximum.
The fees were small and badly paid. The teacher's only other
emoluments were a small offering at Candlemas, and the pro
ceeds of the annual cock fight, perhaps also a few shillings-
very few if any — for acting as Session Clerk. In most instances
less than ^20 altogether was all the schoolmaster's income.
Looking at the state of matters educationally in Alford
Presbytery it would seem from the visitations of the parishes
between 1675 and 1687, that of the sixteen parishes in the
INTRODUCTION. xliii
bounds, only seven of them, when the parishes were visited, had
schools ; nine were without a school. Two of the nine — Clatt
and Tullynessle — report that they had had no school for a time ;
Auchindoir reports that there never had been a school, as the
heritors could not agree where it should be placed ; Cabrach
reports that there was no school, because the parish was not able
to maintain one. In 1687, Glenbucket reports that it has a
school. But, twenty years later, in 1707, matters had changed.
The report is — we may quote it in full as showing the somewhat
destitute condition of that unfortunate parish — it runs thus, " No
Schoolmaster, nor maintenance for one ; no Session Clerk, nor
any capable in the parish to officiate as such ; no precentor, nor
any in the parish capable of the affair ; no office -houses except
some built by the minister at his own expense ; the mansion
(manse) never divided by partitions, without stairs, or glass
windows."
From what appears in our " Record" — of which the above is
a sample — it will be seen how little the educational wants of the
district were attended to. Not half of the parishes had a school.
The large district comprising Cabrach, Kennethmont, Clatt,
Kearn, Auchindoir, Forbes, Tullynessle, Leochel, and Cushny,
had not a single school. The Presbytery, as it did, might bring
the matter before the heritors, enjoin the minister of the parish
to use every diligence to have a school established, but often
all in vain. The heritors of the day might be poor. Very likely
they were so. But they were also penurious, and adepts at pro
crastination. For one reason or another they managed to put
off the providing of a school — "no maintenance for a school
master," "cannot agree as to a site for the school," and so on.
xliv INTRODUCTION.
BlSIIOI'S OV ABERDEEN.
The Bishops of Aberdeen during the Episcopal period 1662-
1688 were four in number.
1. David Mitchell. Dr. David Mitchell was a native oi
Garvock, Kincardineshire. He is said in early life to have
sided with the extreme party among the Presbyterians, to have
been opposed to the Articles of Perth, &c. If this were so it
was not long until he changed his opinions, and became an
Episcopal minister in Edinburgh. In 1638 he was deposed by
the General Assembly, no doubt mainly for not conforming to
Presbytery, though other reasons also were alleged. Upon this
he retired to Holland, where he supported himself by working at
clock and watch-making ("Fasti," 886.) Afterwards he returned
to England, received the degree of D.D. from the University of
Oxford, and was made a Prebendary of Westminster. On the
restoration of Episcopacy under Charles II., he was appointed
to the See of Aberdeen in 1662, but died in January of the
following year, and was buried in the Cathedral Church,
Aberdeen. ' Bishop Mitchell is described as " a little man, of
brisk, lively temper, well learned, a good preacher, of irreproach
able manners, and a single life." (" Fasti," 886).
2. Alexander Bnrnet. Burnet was the son of James Bur-net,
minister of Jedburgh. He took orders in England, and held a
rectory in Kent, from which he was ousted by Cromwell in 1650,
owing to his being a keen supporter of Charles I. He went to
the Continent, and resided there until the Restoration. He was
consecrated Bishop of Aberdeen in 1663, but next year was
translated to the Archbishopric of Glasgow, He is said to have
been a keen persecutor of the Covenanters, who were numerous
INTRODUCTION. xlv
in his diocese. He was, at the same time, a strong upholder of
what he considered the rights of his own Church. For instance,
he opposed the Assertory Act of 1669, which declared the King
supreme in all matters civil and ecclesiastical, making Charles, as
was said, both " King and Pope." For this he got into
disfavour and trouble, and was deprived for a time of his
Archbishopric. In 1674, however, he was restored. On the
murder of Archbishop Sharp, in 1679, he was appointed to the
primacy as Archbishop of St. Andrews. He died there in 1684.
3. Patrick Scougal (1664-1682). Scougal was a native of
East Lothian. He became minister of Dairsie in 1636, of
Leuchars in 1645, of Saltoun in 1658, and Bishop of Aberdeen
in 1664. In 1638, when Presbytery gained the ascendancy,
Patrick Scougal conformed and remained in Dairsie. He is
mentioned in the list of those present at the Synod of Fife in
April, 1639, and as one of a "leet " from which was to be chosen
a preacher to a regiment to be raised out of Fife to assist " our
army in England." In October, 1641, when the report was
given in to the Synod " anent the searching of superstitious
monuments by the several Presbyteries, it was declared there
were none within the bounds; only Mr. Patrick Scougal reported
that there were sundry crosses in their Kirk at Dairsie, which by
some were not thought to be superstitious," and he asked a
committee to be appointed to visit the Church anent this, which
request was granted. The result was that, at Synod, April
1642, it was reported that the crosses, &c., were removed or to
be removed.1 At the same Synod (1642) the " Assembly (Synod)
concluded that a partition wall of timber (described previously as
a " glorious partition wall of timber .... dividing the
i It may be mentioned thai the Church of Dairsie ha<l been erected by the primate as some
what a model of what, in his opinion, a Church should be, and so contained crosses, &c.
xlvi INTRODUCTION.
body of the Kirk from the choir ") shall be removed, nothing
remaining but shoulder-heights to be for backs of seats adjoining
thereto, and this with all convenient diligence." At Synod,
October 1642, it was reported by Mr. Scougal that nothing had
been done as to the partition. Upon this " the Assembly
requires and commands the heritors and session to take
convenient order with that part of the superstition as they will
be answerable to next Assembly." In the troubles previous to
the execution of Charles I., Scougal and the Presbyterians
generally adhered to the king's party. After the defeat at
Naseby, Patrick Scougal was one of two who, on behalf of the
Synod of Fife, presented a loyal address to His Majesty " anent
his late escape to the malignants." (From Minutes of Synod of
Fife 1611-1687).
On Bishop Burnet's translation to Glasgow, Patrick Scougal
was appointed Bishop of Aberdeen, receiving consecration from
Archbishop Sharp in April 1664. He was a man of moderate
views, akin in spirit to Leighton of Dunblane, whose neighbour
at one time he was — the one being minister of Saltoun, the other
of Newbattle. Bishop Scougal managed his diocese with
prudence, and in a way that gained him the respect of all, though
it has to be confessed that his persecution of the Quakers — a
good deal at the instigation of others — leaves a stain on his
otherwise tolerant administration. There was in Patrick
Scougal little, if anything, of the bigotry and persecuting
spirit which made so many of the bishops disliked, and which
doubtless was no small factor in embittering Presbyterians
against Episcopacy. To have recourse to severe measures seems
to have been a step reluctantly taken by Scougal. He opposed
the Test Act of 1681 which bore so heavily on Presbyterians.
Indeed, it is said to have been in a great measure due to his
efforts that the Test was allowed to be taken in a modified form.
INTRODUCTION. xlvii
He was certainly one of the best of the Scottish Bishops. He
died in 1682, aged seventy-five, and was buried in Aberdeen
Cathedral.
4. George Haly burton (1682-1688). Halyburton at first was
minister of Coupar-Angus, and afterwards Bishop of Brechin.
On the death of Scougal he was translated to the; See of Aber
deen, and continued Bishop there until the Revolution of 1688,
and the abolition of Episcopacy in 1689. Scott ("Fasti," 816)
says " He intruded at Hilton, parish of Newtyle, from the 8th
of May 1698 to the 28th May 1710, and died at his Mansion-
house, Denhead, Coupar-Angus, 29th September, 1/15, aged
seventy-seven years."
Explanatory Note. In regard to the plan followed in editing
this volume a few words of explanation may be necessary. The
original MS., if copied word for word, would have made up two
or three volumes of the size of this. The material had therefore
to be compressed. A good deal in each minute, such as the
mode of opening the meeting, giving the names of those absent,
appointing the next meeting, beginning each paragraph with
"The said day," these, and such like things, being merely
formal, could very well be omitted, and are omitted.
Then as to discipline cases, which occupy far the greater
portion of the MS. volume, these, as illustrating Church pro
cedure and the morals of the people, are for a time so far given.
Afterwards the details of the cases are omitted, unless something
special is connected with them, or they are useful for illustrating
some custom, &c., of the period. A great many of the discipline
entries run thus, " Anent A. B. ut supra," or " No report anent
C. D., the minister being absent. ' It was needless to copy
xlviii INTRODUCTION.
these and similar entries. But in order to furnish an idea of the
cases dealt with at the meetings, the number is given at the end
of the. minute thus, (" 16 cases of discipline. ") Latterly this
also is omitted, though, both in numbers and kind, the cases
continue all through the volume;. It is right, however, to state
what will occur to any one, that the sixteen or twenty cases re
corded in each minute are, the majority of them, not new cases.
Every case at its every stage; had to be reported and recorded,
the same person recurring minute after minute;, perhaps ten or
twenty times, particularly when the delinquent was "contu
macious." Examples of this are "M'Kommie" or "Innes of
Sinnahard."
Next, as to the visitation of parishes, it has not been con
sidered necessary to give the full minute in each case. The
" Form of Visitation " (pp. 231-238) shows what was to be done
on these occasions. And as the procedure, in the opening of
the meetings, in the dealings witli minister, elders, &c., and in
the exhortations given, is virtually the same in all cases, that
has not been repeated. One case, viz. Cushny, the first parish
visited, is given in full as an example, and reference made to it
thus — " See Cushny 228."
Other omissions are also made, particularly in the last
hundred pages. This became necessary in order to keep the
volume within anything like the prescribed limits. But anything
thought worth retaining is given in full. The omissions are
indicated by such marks as when the matter is
omitted altogether ; by [ ] when the nature of the matter
is expressed in the editor's words.
Index. The wish has been to make this as full and accurate
as possible. There are, however, no doubt oversights and
INTRODUCTION. xh'x
omissions which should not have occurred. The time avail
able for drawing up the index was unavoidably somewhat
limited.
All the works consulted in preparing our Introduction, Notes,
£c., need not be named. They are the usual histories of our
country, Hill Burton's History, &c. Of our Church Historians,
we cannot refrain from mentioning two, viz., Dr. John
Cunningham and Dr. William Stephen, of Dumbarton, the one
a Presbyterian, the other an Episcopalian. These writers,
though we need not agree with every opinion expressed either
by the one or the other, yet for ability, candour, and fairness to
opponents, are beyond all praise. One never consults them
without satisfaction and benefit. Their spirit is so different
from the narrowness and uncharitableness which too often
characterise writers on ecclesiastical subjects, particularly Scotch
writers on Scotch ecclesiastical subjects.
In conclusion, we desire to tender our thanks to all who have
so kindly assisted and encouraged us in the work. We are
deeply conscious how imperfectly our own part of the work has
been performed. Our thanks are due to the Presbytery of
Alford for permission to use the volume of their minutes. Very
specially are they due to Mr. P. J. Anderson, the accomplished
Secretary of our New Spalding Club. It is not too much to say
that, but for the invaluable and ever willingly rendered counsel
and guidance of Mr. Anderson, our part of the work could not
have been accomplished.
T. B.
KEIC, MANSE,
December, 1897.
RECORDS
The Records of
the
Meeting of the Exercife of Alfoord
From the munth of October ann. 1662
Refers from the Diocesian Synod of Aberdene holden within the
Colledge Kirk of Old Aberdene, October 21, Ann., 1662, and dayes follow
ing, under David, by the mercy of God Lord Bishop of Aberdene.
(To ?) the brethren of the Exercise of Alfoord.
It is enacted by the Bishope, with consent of the brethren of the
Synod, that there sail be Readers of the Scriptures in every congrega-
tione, and that the Reader sail begin with a set forme of prayer, espe-
ciallie with the Lord's Prayer, and thcnifter they ar to read some psalmes,
with some chapteris of the Old Testament, thcrafter they ar to rehearse
the Apostolick creed publicklie, and in rehearsing of it to stand up, after
ward that they read some chapteris of the New Testament according to
the appoyntrnent of the respective ministers, and last of all they are to
rehearse the Ten Commandments publickly ; as also it is ordained that
such as in tymc of reading the Scriptures sail be found walking without
in the Church Yaird or withdrawing themselves sail be censured, and in
caise thcr be not a Reader, then, in that caise the minister sail read him
self.1
It is enacted by the Bishope, with consent of the brethren of the
Synod, that morning and evening prayers be had in certain places, cspe-
ciallie the following, viz. : in New and Old Aberdene, in Banff, in Old
Deer, in Peterhcad, in Fraserburghe, in Kintor, in Inveruric, in Kincardine
O'Neill, in Turrcff, in Kllon, in Tarves, in Fordyce, in Monymusk, in
Upper Banchorie, and that the liturgic in the old Psalm Book be prac
tised."
It is ordered by the Bishope, with consent of the brethren of the
Synod that the Readers of the Scriptures on the Lord's day shall not
1 Note 1. - Note 2.
A
2 RECORDS OK THE MEETINC [1662
pronounce the blessing over the people, but shall leave that to be done
by the minister, but the Reader on the week clay may pronounce the
blessing, as also he may pronounce it on the Lord's day if the minister shall
be necessarly absent, and that though in prayer the Reader use only the
Lord's Prayer he shall riot be censured.
It is ordered by the Bishope, with consent of the brethren of the
Synod, that every Reader in congrcgationes shall be requyrccl by the
minister to appear before the Bishop, and be authorized by him, and that
his abilitie and qualificatione for the exercise of reading be looked upon
and noticed at the next Synod or abefor.
It is ordered by the Bishope, with consent of the brethren of the
Synod, that a day of thanksgiving be observed in all the congregationes
of this diocic upon the fyft of November next to come, for that great and
mightie delyverance of King James the sixt of blessed mcmorie, and the
royall familie, hatched and contryvcd against them, and by the great
mercie of God discovered.1
It is ordered by the Bishope, with consent of the brethren of the
Synod, that privat baptisme and privat communione be not clenyed be
any minister within this diocie, at what tyme they sail be earnestly clesyred
to give the same, and in case of necessitie that meetings sail be inter
rupted by the plague of pestilence, then and in that case the minister is
free to give it to the diseased persones, upon their longing desyr and car-
nest demand to have it.
It is appoyntcd by the Bishope, with consent of the brethren of
the Synod, that the Directorie practized by order of the late illcgall
Assemblie be layd assyd, and not made use of in tyme coming.2
It is ordained by the Bishope, with consent of the brethren of the
Synod, that all the ministers within this province shall tak particular
notice of all papists within ther parochins, and send in their names to
the Bishope, as well such as ar excommunicat alreadie as those who
are under process and lately fallen away from hearing the word and
partaking of the sacrament, and that all those who shall converse with
excommunicat persons, or shall rccept Seminarie priests and Jesuits
upon the notorietie theiroff, the respective ministers shall send in their
names to the Bishope, that by his lordship their names may be sent
to His Majcstie's privie counsell.3
1 Note 3. - Note 4. :; Note 5.
1 662] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFOKD. 3
It is enacted by the Bishope, with consent of the brethren of the
Synod, that every minister within this diocie shall mak choice of so many
within his paroch of the most able, qualified, and understanding persons,
to have ane inspectionc and oversight of the people, and observe their
waves of walking, and that they shall delate to the minister scandalous
walkers, that they may be censured according to the approvcn Actis of
the Church, and that they concurr with and assist the minister to the
effect fores aid.1
It is ordered and appoyntcd by the BiVnopc, with consent of the bre
thren of the Synod, that the brethren of the several! Exercises, in their
respective bounds, being mett for matters of discipline touching refcrrs
that shall come from severall sessioncs, shall not proceed to sentence any
with cxcornmunicationc, unless it be by order of the Bishope, after his
lordship has visited and approven the process^ Likwayes at their meit-
ting they are impowered to try young men in order to the preaching of
the gospell, and, having found them qualified, to recommend them to the
Bishope that they may be approven and licensed by him, but they ar not
to license them to preach till they be approven by the Bishope. Further-
mor they are not to censure any minister with suspensione or dcpriva-
tione without speciall warrand from the Bishope.3
It is enacted and ordered by the Bishope, with consent of the brethren
of the Synod, that the meitings of the brethren of the Exercises shall be
at the same places wher they did meet for exercise in the tyme of the
Bishopes, and the brethren of the Exercise of Aberdene shall meet for the
effect foresaid in the Collcdge Kirk of the Universitie of Old Aberdene.
Anentthe promise and professione of Canonical! obedience, wheroff the
tennor followes : I, A. B., cloe profess and promise that I will render to
my Ordinaire, David, by the mercie of God, Lord Bishope of Aberdene,
and his successors, due Canonicall obedience, and to them to whom the
government and charge is committed over me, following with a glad
mynd and will ther godlie admonitiones. The Bishope, with consent of
the Synod, ordains that every minister shall declare himself anent the fore-
said promise and professione of Canonicall obedience, and subscryve the
same.
It is ordained by the Bishope and brethren of the Synod, anent the
new fabrick of the Universitie of Aberdene begune long ago, but not
1 Note 6. '-' Note 7. " Note 8.
RECORDS 01- THE MEETING [1662
finished as yet that such of the ministers of this Diocic as befor promised
to contribute to the said work, and as yet have not payed, shall pay
according to ther promises, and such as have not contributed, nor pro
mised to contribute for that effect, shall pay accordingly betwixt and the
next Synod.
A petitione being given in to the Bishope and brethren of the Synod,
dcsyring that all the ministers within this Diocic should bring in with
them at evcric Synod the list of the dead within ther parochines, and that
the widowcs shah1 not be manyed till the testaments of their former hus
bands be confirmed ; the Bishope, with consent of the brethren of the
Synod, grants the forsaid petitione, with this speciall provisione, that the
testaments of ministers and their relicts shall be confirmed gratis.
It is enacted by the Bishope, with consent of the brethren of the Synod,
that payment be made to the burscrs of Divinitie according to use and
wont, viz: the one half at the winter Synod, and the other half in the
spring, and because they cannot be payt at this present Synod, that they
be payt betwixt and the clcvcnt day of November, under the pane of
censure ; as also it is enacted that the scverall burscrs shall come in to
Aberdeen immediately the forsaid elevent day of November, and attend
the professionc of Divinitie, and shall, at ther coming from the professione
of Divinitie, exhibit and present to the brethren of the scverall Exercises
the profcssa dicta, and if the forsaid bursers shall not attend the profes
sione of Divinitie at the tyme above exprcst, then, and in that case, their
places to be declared vacant.1
The humble supplicatione, under the hands of William Karle Marshall,
Lord Keith and Altric, etc., and the towne of Petcrhcad, was presentit and
read, holding out the great necessitie of repairing the broken bulwarks of
the townc of Peterhead, and that the ministers in this Diocic wold make
a contributione at their respective churches for the said work. The Bish
ope, with consent of the brethren, recommends seriously to each mini
ster within this Diocie to deal seriously with their parishioners for the
effect forsaid, and that the moderators in evcric precinct collect from their
brethren the said contributions togidder with and under their hands,
that they give them to Andrew Watsone, Robert Arbuthnot, or any
whom they shall appoynt, and that betwixt and the second day of
February next 1663.
1 Note 9.
OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 5
Ane double of an Act of Parliament, in favors of Collonel Alcxr.
Ramsay, anent his losse in anno 1648, was presented and read. The
Bishope, with consent of the Synod, taking the said matter to their serious
consideration, do seriously recommend to the severall brethren within
this Diocie to deall effectuallie with their parishioners for a contributione
to the effect forsaicl.
It is ordered by the Bishope, with consent of the brethren of the
Synod, that the ministers in ther publick prayers shall pray in the manner
after following : — •
Bless thy servant, our Sovereign Charles the Second, by the spcciall
grace of God, King of Britain, France, and Irland, Defender of the Faith,
over all personcs, in all cases, as well civill as ecclesiastick, nixt and
immediatly under thee and thy Christ, supreme governor within His
Majestie's dominiones.
Likwayes it is ordered that the ministers, in ther publick prayers, sail
bless the Lord for the setlment of the church, for the government therof,
and governors therm, Archbishopes and Bishopes by name, and our Ordi-
narie David, by the mercie of God, Bishope of Aberdene, and that they
sail not faill therm under the paine of censure.
It is enacted by the Bishope, with consent of the brethren of the
Synod, that no chaplane sail have exercise in a familie, no pettagogue
sail attend a youth, no young man sail be allowed teach a scholl, no
young man sail preach the gospell in burgh or land without licence and
authentic from the Bishope.
It is enacted by the Bishope, with consent of the brethren of the
Synod, that deposed ministers, or any of what qualitie and conditione
soever, that sail goe about to seduce people, and to speak against the
setlment of the present government, either in church or state, sail be pro
cessed by the brethren of the Exercise in whose precincts they are.
It is recommended by the Bishope, with consent of the brethren of
the Synod, that, in tyme of publick prayer, people sail pray either stand
ing or kneeling, as the most reverend gesture in prayer, and that the
severall ministers within this Diocie sail recommend the same to ther
people, and sail be exemplarie therin themselves, and that at the singing
of the doxologie the people sail stand and not sit.
6 kl'ICOKDS OF THE MKKT1M, \\662
It is ordered by the Bishope, with consent of the brethren of the
Synod, that the habit of ministers sail be such as beseemeth comeliness,
deccncic, gravitic, and suitablencs to ther calling, and particularlie in
having a cassock coat.
Anent the supplicatione for the towne of Aberdcnc, under the hands
of Gilbert Gray, late provost, Alexr. Alexander, and Mr. James Kcnnedic,
tovvne's clerk, dcsyring it wold please the Bishope, and brethren ot the
Synod to appoynt ministers of the Exercises next adjacent to Abcr-
dene,yVr vices, or otherwayis to supplic the vacancies of Aberdcnc in the
duties of the ministeriall calling-, so far as convenientlie they can go about
this. The brethren of the Synod taking the said supplicatione to their
scriousc consideratione, ordained the severall brethren of the Exercises of
Aberdene, Ellon, Garioch, and Kinkardine to supplie the said vacancies,
with this speciall provisionc that they have ten days at least advertise
ment befor.
It is enacted by the Bishope, with consent of the brethren of the Synod,
that such young men as have been licensed by the brethren of the
Exercise to preach sail first make applicatione to my Lord Bishope, and
present testimonialls de novo, under the hands of the moderators duely
appoynted at this Synod.
The Bishope, with consent of the brethren of the Synod, judgit con
venient that no minister, who has entered into the ministerie since 1649
sail raise letters upon any other ground to charge his parishioners for his
stipend, unless he have collatione from the Bishope, upon a prescntatione
from his legall patrone.1
Mr. Alexr. Seatone, minister at Bamff, having holden forth befor
the Bishope and brethren of the Synod, that his patrone was not in capa-
citie to give him a presentatione, as also Mr. YVm. Burnett, minister
at Insch, holding forth that the patrone of his church is not knowne to
him, the Bishope and brethren of the Synod taking the same to their
consideratione, ordered that the forsaid brethren sail be acknowledged
ministers in the places wher they arc presently, and all other ministers
w^ho are in such case to be acknowledged ministers in the places wher
they ar, till the contrarie sail appear.
It is ordered by the Bishop and brethren of the Synod, that the bre
thren of the severall Exercises sail requyre the absent brethren from the
1 Note 10.
1 662] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORIX 7
late Synod, in ther respective precincts, to signe and subscribe the Pro
mise and Professione of Cannonicall Obedience, and to report to the
Bishopc accordingly.
Sic subscribitur,
Mr. GEO. MYLN, Clerk to
the Synod of Aberdein.
At Aberdein, October 24, 1662.
Mr. Adam Barclay, minister at Towy, by the authoritic of David, by
the mercie of God, Lord Bishop of Aberdein, appointed moderator of the
Exercise of Alfoord togither with the brethren of Alfoord meitting, con-
vein, and appoint November 20 for the nixt dyet of their meitting.
At Alfoord, November 20, 1662.
By the autoritie of David, by the mercie of God, Lord Bishop of
Aberdene, the brethren of the Exercise of Alfoord did meitt, befor whom,
Mr. John Mair, Student of Divinitie (having been formerly directed to
the said inciting, by order from the said Bishop, for the passing of his
tryalls, in order to his admissione to the Kirk of Touch, and having for
merly undergone some parts therof) handled the controversie De fonnali
ratione justificationis ; after the invocatione of the name of God, in pre
sence of the said meitting, did maintain dispute therupon, and was therin
approved.
The nixt meitting is appointed to be at Alfoord Jany first, 1663, and
it is ordained that he have the Exercise and Additione upon Rom. v. 19
as his point of tryall.
Mr. William Glasse, minister of Cushny, did give in a supplicatione to
the brethren, desireing that wheras formerly they had passed ane Act of
the Presbiiric declaring the bigging of Cushny, to the value of eightie
libs, therof, to be mortified for the use of his successors, upon the account
that the said Mr. William, at his eutrie to the Kirk of Cushny, had
enjoyed in one year the stipends both of the Kirk of Kerne, from which
he was removed, and of the Kirk of Cushny, to which he entered, and
that now, by virtue of the Act of parliament, the collectors for vacant
stipends had lifted the stipend of the parish of Kerne out of his hand, and
8 RECORDS OF TIIK MKKTINO. \\6C>2
did present their discharge therupon, the brethren might be pleased to
declare the former Act for mortificatione null ; which supplicatione and
desire was thought reasonable by the meitting, which do therfor declare
the former Act of no effect, and from henceforth to have no force against
the said Mr. William.
Mr. Adam Barclay, minister at Towy, desired that the name of
Margaret Mintie, excommunicated for adultery committed within this
parish with Robert Name, being now fugitive, might be put upon record,
that the severall brethren might have notice that she should not reside
within their parishes.
Upon a petitione given in by Robert Forbes and Robert Clerk (who
have been excommunicated in the parish (if Touch) desireing that they
might be relaxed from the sentence of excommunicationc (they brought
with them a recommendatione from the Sessionc of Touch for that effect).
The brethren thought it expedient to advise with the Bishop whether
they and others in their conditione should bee remitted to him for their
relaxatione, whether (in respect they have been excommunicated only
by order from the Prcsbitrie) the brethren might tak upon them to relaxe
them without further order, and recommended the matter to bee represen
ted by the moderator to the Bishop.
The minister of Kildrummie represented to the meitting, that long
agoc having closed the processe against Patrick McKommie, upon the
account of his being convict of charming, that he desired to bee advised
whether he should charge the said Patrick befor the meitting of the
brethren, to hear and see the sentence of excommunicatione ordained
to be pronounced against him, or whether he should charge him bcfor the
bishop. It is expedient that the matter be advised with the bishop
ut supra.
In regard of the decrepit old age of Mr. Andrew Kerre, minister of
Glenbuchet, it is ordained that Mr. John Walker go thither on Lord's day,
and supplic the charge bcfor the nixt meitting ; as likwisc, in respect of
the vacancie of Touch, it is ordained that Mr. William Glasse supplic
that charge one clay befor the nixt meitting.
Mr. James Gordoune desired that it might be put upon record that he
had received from Mr. Alexander Rosse, minister at Monymusk, institu-
tione to the cure of the Church of Alforcl, manse, and stipend, and privi-
ledges therof, by virtue of ane ordinance from our Ordinaire, the bishop
1663] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 9
of Aberdcne. Institutione was given November second, which desire (the
matter being notoure) was granted.
Mr. John Walker desired that it might be put upon record that he had
received from Mr. George Garden, minister of Clatt, institutione to the
cure of the Church at Tillinessel, manse, and glebe, and priviledges, by
virtue of an order from our Ordinarie, the bishop of Aberdene, which was
given November nynth, which desire (the matter being notoure) was
granted.
At Alfoord, January i, 1663.
Mr. John Mair had the Exercise and Additione upon Rom. v. 19, and
was approven. The nixt meitting is appointed to be at Alfoord, January
29, and Mr. John Mair is appointed to have his questionarie tryall, and
give an account of his knowledge of the Languages as his last points of
tryall.
The meitting being unfrequent in regard of the stormie weather all
businesses are continued to the nixt meitting, save only that by reference
from the Sessione of Alfoord, Isobell Rae who was convict befor the said
Sessione of a trilapse in fornicatione, last with John Forbes of Petfluge,
and was summoned to the meitting of the P^xercise, called, not compeir-
ing, is ordered to be summoned pro 2°.
Alfoord, January 29, 1663.
Mr. John Mair sustained his questionarie tryall, and his tryall in the
Languages, and is approven.
The brethren having revised all passages of the tryalls of Mr. John
Mair, and finding themselves satisfied thenvith, in order to his entrance
to the ministrie, did appoint that this their act of approbatione therof bee
transmitted to our Ordinarie that therupon he may receive orders.
Anent Robert Forbes, Robert Clerk, and Patrick McKommie nothing
as yet could be resolved upon, in regard that the moderator is detained
by sicknes from the meitting, from whom they were expecting a report
of the bishop's mynd theranent
Mr. John Walker and Mr. William Glasse reported that as yet they
had not obeyed the former ordinance in preaching at Glenbuchet and
Touch, by reason of the stormienes of the weather. Wherupon it is
B
[O
RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1663
ordained that the}- repair and supplie thcs vacancies once bcfor the nixt
meitting.
\2 cases of discipline^
It is appointed that the nixt meitting be at Alfoord February 26, and
Mr. Robert Dimbarrc to exercise upon the ordinarie matter therof.
Alfoord, February 26, 1663.
Mr. Robert Dunbar exercised upon Rom. xiii. 1 1 ; the doctrin being
censured is approven.
The nixt meitting is appointed to be at Alfoord, March 26, and Mr.
John Walker to exercise the said day upon the ordinarie subject.
Robert Forbes, Robert Clerk ut supra.
Mr. David Milne, Chaplaine in Glenbuchct, appeared be for the meit
ting, and produced a missive letter directed from the laird of Glenbuchet,
in the name of to the brethren of the Exercise, wherin he
did supplicat, that in regard to the vacancie caused by the decease of
their late minister, Mr. Andrew Kerrc, they would be pleased to licentiat
the said Mr. David to read the Scripture in that church on the Sabbath
day till it shall please the Almightie to provide a minister for them. The
which pctitione the brethren having taken into their serious considcra-
tione, they thought good to grant the same, and did licentiat the said Mr.
David to officiat in the church in conformitie to the tenor of the petitione,
and that in regard they found the said Mr. David cloathed with two
famous testimonies from the Professors of Aberdene, but principally upon
the account they hade no Ordinarie alive to whom they might recommend
him for that licence. And Mr. John Walker having failed to execute
the former ordinance, in regard of the tempestuousnes of the season, was
appointed to intimat that licence to the people of Glenbuchet some
Sabbath day befor the nixt dyett.
It was found that Mr. William Glasse hade not gone to Touch as he
was appointed in regard of the stormienes of the weather, and he ordained
de novo to preach thcr befor the nixt meeting.
The brethren of the Fxercise taking to their serious consideratione
that many persounes living without their province do resort to their
bounds, some wherof are suspected to be fugitives upon the account of
1663] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. I I
scandal!, others ar found to have no apparent way of living-, therfor it
was thought expedient that it should be enacted, that no elder or house
holder should receipt any such pcrsounes within their respective posses
sions, unlesse they produced a famous testimonic befor the meitting, and
that under pain of Church censure. And the brethren ordained to inti
mate the said Act to their severall congregationes.
The Synodicall referres (having but lately come to the Moderator's
hands) were presented to the meitting, and judicially red and reco-
mended.
Alfoord, March 26, 1665.
Mr. John Walker exercised on Rom. 13, 12. The doctrin being cen
sured was approven.
The nixt dyctt was appointed to be Apryll 23 ; and Mr. David Milne
(who was formerly licentiated to exercise the office of lector in the Church
of Glcnbuchet) appointed to have both the Exercise and Additione the
nixt dyett upon the ordinarie subject (We having yet no Ordinarie).
Mr. \Valter Ritchie declared that he went to Touch, and institut Mr.
John Mair minister of that church (he having received letters of collatione
from the Archbishop of St. Andrews, being ordained by his vicar, the
Bishop of Edinburgh, our Ordinarie not being yet established) the twentie
second of March, which letters of collatione and act of orclinatione the
said Mr. John presented to the meitting.
Robert Forbes and Robert Clerk again compeircd and did de novo
supplicat to be relaxed. Wherupon the brethren of the Exercise, being
informed by the moderator that, in obedience to their ordinance, he hade
acquainted the Bishop with the case of those excommunicat, whose
mynde was, that seeing they were excommunicated without Episcopall
authoritie, the samen needed not bee interposed for their relaxatione,
did refcrre them to Touch to be relaxed the Lord's day come eight dayes,
but with this proviso in reference to Robert Clerk, that he should pro
duce a sufficient testimonic from the Sessione of Monymusk, in which
parish he then hade his residence.
It was resolved, in conformitie to the order of our late Ordinarie
which was represented to the meitting by the moderator, viz. : that all
those persons who were processed with excommunicatione, the processe
! 2
RECORDS OF THE MEETING [166;
being finished, should be cited to appear bcfor the brethren of the Exer
cise, to hear the said processe, and to have libertie to except against it, if
they could challenge the informalitie of it, which being done, the said pro
cesse was to be extracted and transmitted to the Bishop ; that Patrick
McKommie, his processe should be extracted, and any further busienes
continued till thcr should be an Ordinarie established.
It was found that Mr. John Walker and Mr. William Glasse hade
obeyed the former ordinance.
[discipline}
Mr. James Rosse was ordained to go to the church of Strathdoune
some Sabbath befor the nixt meitting to preach ther, in regard of the
vacancie of that church, by the removall of the late minister ,
as also to hold Scssione, and to bring the minuts with him to the nixt
dyet, that the persons who are under scandall may be knowen.
[discipline]
James Gordoune and Janet Innes having been delated by the Sessione
of Kildrumie as guiltie of adulterie, and being both fugitive together, the
said Sessione upon that account having referred the matter to the meit
ting of the Exercise ; it is ordained, in respect they could not be found
whereby a personal summons might bee fixed upon them, that the said
James Gordoune bee summoned from the pulpit of Kildrummie, and the
said Janet Innes bee summoned from the pulpit of Towy, within which
parish she had her residence, to appear befor the next meitting.
[discipline']
Alfoord, April 23, 1663.
Mr. David Milne exercised and added on Rom. 13, 13, and the doc
trine being censured, was approven.
The nixt inciting is appointed to be May 14, and Mr. David Milne
ordained to have a popular sermon on Psalm 50, 15.
The said day Mr. John Mair declared that Robert Forbes was relaxed
April 5, as also Robert Clerk the same day.
Patrick McKommie continued ut supra.
[discipline]
Mr. James Rosse declared that, in obedience to the ordinance of the
1663] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORI). 13
inciting-, he hade gone to Strathdoune, and preached ther, likwise did hold
Scssione, but, as for their minutes, he reported that the elders did signifie
unto him that they knew nothing of them, wherupon Mr. Walter Ritchie
is ordained to go some Sabbath day befor the nixt inciting to preach
and hold Sessione, and again to call for the minutes thcrof, if he could
get no account to charge the Clerk of the Sessione to appear at the nixt
dyett, befor the brethren of the Exercise.
., ...... [discipline]
The said day compeercd James Gordoune and Janet Innes befor the
brethren of the Exercise, upon the account of the publick citatione from
the pulpit, and were both convicted of adulterie by their own confcssione,
and they were ordained to undergo the usuall pennance of adulterers, first
at the Churches of Towie and Kildrummie, and afterwards at the
Churches of Cabrach and Auchindoor, wher also they had given scandall
by their lewdness. Likwise, they are strictly inhibited to converse any
more together, with certificatione if they were found to do so, they should
be holdcn guiltie of a relapse in adulterie.
[discipline]
Mr. John Mair ordained to go some Sabbath befor the nixt mcitting
to the Church of Glenbucket to preach and hold Sessione ther.
The moderator, Mr. George Garden, Mr. Walter Ritchie, and Mr.
James Gordoune were ordained by the mcitting to go on the Moonday of
nixt week to wait upon the Earll of Marre (patron of the Church of
Strathdoun) and to entreat his Lordship to present a qualified minister,
on account of the urgent necessitic of that people, how soone his Lord
ship should find conveniencie with regard therto.
The School of Alfoord (being desired by the minister thcrof) is
appoynted to be visited this day come eight dayes by Mr. William Glasse,
Mr. Walter Ritchie, Mr. John Mair.
James Reid (being under the sentence of the lesser excommunicatione)
(not legible) was recommended by the Sessione of Towy for admissionc
(not legible) and was referred back for that effect.
\discipline\
Alfoord, May 14, 1663.
Mr. David Milne preached Ps. 50, 15, and the doctrin being censured
was approven.
H RECORDS OF THE MEETINC [1663
The nixt meitting is appointed to be at Alfoorcl, Junii n,and Mr.
David Milne ordained to handle the controversie DC msibilitate Ecclesiat
and sustain dispute theron.
Patrick McKommie continued ut supra.
[discipline']
Mr Walter Ritchie declared that (in obedience to the former ordi
nance)' he hade repaired to Strathdounc, and preached ther, likwise d,<
hold Scssione, and produced a paper containing the names of some
quents within the parish of Strathdounc.
\disaplme\
No report anent James Gordoune and Janet Innes, the minister of
Towy being necessarily absent.
It is reported anent Janet Smith, that she is continuing m her pu
professione of repentance.
{discipline}
It is reported that Mr. John Mair obeyed the former ordinance in
repairing to Glenbuckct.
The Commissioners above ordained to repair to the Earll of Mar,
reported, that they hade spoken with his Lordship, and that they hade
found him using all diligence, and that hec would bee in readmcs to pr<
sent a man to the Church of Strathdoune, how soone he should get any
noturietie of ane Ordinarie to whom hee should direct his presentations ;
as lykwise, the said Commissioners reported that, in reference to
accommodation of some parts of that parish of Strathdoune they hade
intreated his Lordship that hec woold present none to that Church, u
out first assurance given under the hand of the pcrsoune to bee pr<
that hee should neither directly nor indirectly oppose or <
accommodatione of the clavach of Glenkindie by vincting them to t
parish at Glenbucket (at which they might bee commochously served , a:
by clisjuncting them from the parish of Strathdoune (from the
wherof they ly at a great distance), and that so much the rather, that
said parish of Strathdoune is a great and weightie charge, in regard of the
number of people therin, and the ministrie thcr may be competently pro-
vided without the said lands ; and that the parish of Glenbucket is but a
small charge, and of a poor provision ; unto which his Lordship willingly
condescended. With this report the brethren were well satisfied, and die
OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 15
very much approve their Commissioners' care and diligent discharge of
themselves in that affair.
The Commissioners appointed for the visitatione of the School of
Alfoord reported that they hade visited the said school, and hade found
the master diligently discharging his duty, and the scholars profiting.
[discipline]
A desire was given in by Mr. Thomas Forbes, minister at Kegge, and
Mr. John Mair, minister at Touch, that ther might be a letter directed to
the Lords Commissioners for the Plantatione and Accommodatione of
Churches, bearing the grounds wherupon the lands disjointed from the
parish of Monymusk, and united to the parishes of Kegge and Touch,
were thus accommodated, and that, in regard that the laird of Monymusk
was studying to have these lands revincted to the parish of Monymusk
(to the great prejudice of the parishes concerned), that their Lordships
wold be pleased to forbear to do anything therin till the [torn azva}>]
should first tak cognitione of the matter ; which desire was judged
reasonable, and it was ordained that the Moderator should writt a letter
to their Lordships for that effect.
It was ordained that Mr. William Duncanne repair to Strathdoune
befor the nixt meitting, and hold Sessione ther.
Alfoord, June n, 1663.
Mr. David Milne handled the controversie De visibilitate Ecclesiae,
and sustained dispute theron. The brethren, having considered the
severall passages of his tryalls did approve his acquittall therin, and did
ordain that the moderator should give him a testimonie under his hand,
to our Ordinarie, wherupon he might be licentiate to preach the Gospell.
Patrick McKommie is continued ut supra.
[discipline]
Anent James Gordouneand Janet Innes,the minister of Towy report
ed, that they had not only not entered to the professione of repentance,
but that also they were continuing in their sinne, and travelling through
the country in company together. Wherupon it is ordained that the
minister of Kildrummie proceed in processe against them, and that it be
i6
RECORDS OF TIIK MKKTIXC, [1663
intimated from the several) pulpits within our precinct, that none receipt
them in company together, under pain of Church censure.
{discipline]
The moderator reported that, according to the former ordinance, hee
hade written a letter to the Lords of Commissione for Plantationc
Accommodatione of Churches, in favors of the parishes of Kegge and
Touch.
Mr. William Duncanne reported that hoc hade obeye<
ordinance in preaching and holding Sessione at Strathdounc.
It is ordained that Mr. William Glassc repair to the Churcl
dounc and preach and hold Sessione ther befor the nixt meitting.
A 'letter was presented from the Lords of his Majestie's Counsel
desyring that the names of the papists in the severall parishes might be
sent up unto them. Wherupon it is ordained that the severall brethren
give in the names of the papists within their parishes that they might
sent up in a roll to their Lordships.
{discipline']
By reference from the Sessione of Kildrummie, compccred Bessie
Adam (who had been undergoing pennance for charming) that she might
receive orders for her absolution^ she is remitted back to the said Ses<
for that effect
It is appointed that the nixt meitting bee at Alfoord, July 2, at win
meitting (upon the desire of the minister of Alfoord) Mr. William Bur
nett Schoolmaster ther, is to enter upon his tryalls, in order to a licence
of preaching the gospel. It is ordained that he mak the Exercis
Addition on Romans 14, I, as his first point of tryall.
(next 3 lines illegible.)
Alfoord, July 2, 1663.
The said day, Mr. William Burnett made the Exercise and Addition
on Romans 14, I, and being censured was approven.
The nixt meitting is appointed to be at Alfoord July 23, and Mr.
William Burnett to have a popular sermon Matt. 24, 37, as the nixt parl
of his tryall.
1663] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 17
The Moderator reported that (conforme to the former ordinance) hee
had given to Mr. David Milne a testimonie under his hand, of his acquit-
tall of himself in all the passages of his tryalls past befor the meitting.
Patrick McKommie is continued ut supra.
[discipline]
Mr. Robert Dunbarre gave in a relevant excuse for his absence, which
is accepted.
Ancnt James Gordoune and Janet Innes, the severall brethren report
ed that they had intimated the Act of the meitting. The minister of
Kildrummie reported that he hade publickly admonished the said James
and Janet pro i"., June 14, pro 2°., June 21, pro 3°., June 28. The minister
of Towy reported that the said Janet was entered to the publick profes-
sione of repentance in the Church of Towy.
[discipline]
Mr. William Glasse reported that he hade obeyed the former ordi
nance in preaching and holding Sessionc at Strathdounc.
In reference to the former ordinance anent the giving in the papists'
names, Mr. William Davidsone gave up from the parish of Auchindoir
Francis Gordoune, of Craig, Robert Hood his servant, Mary Ogilvie wife
of the said Robert, all already cxcommunicat for popery. Mr. Robert
Cheyne gave up from the parish of Kennethmont Patrick Gordoune of
Cults, and Thomas Gordoune of Mostownne, both cxcommunicat for
popery, as likwise Margaret Dunbarre, spouse of the said Thomas
Gordoune, Hugh Gordoune of Kirkhill and Elspet Gray, his spouse,
declared contumacious befor their Scssione, upon the account of po
pery. Mr. John Walker gave up from Tillynessel Anna Gordoune,
lady of Terpersie, excommunicat for popery ; Mr. James Rosse gave
up from the parish of Strathdeveraune James Mclnnes, alias Stewart,
cxcommunicat for popery.
{discipline}
By reference from the Sessione of Keigge, compeered William Ander-
sone, acknowledging, that, whcras formerly, having been accused of
adulterie with Beatrix Douglas, he hade purged himself by his great
oath, in presence of the congregatione of Keigge, notwithstanding
that he was guiltie of adulterie with the said Beatrix Douglas, he
C
!8 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1663
was therfor now (through a sense of his guiltieness, and of the wrath
of God for the same) come to confesse his sense both of
perjurie and adulterie, and to submitt himself to the censure of the
meitting for the same. The brethren considering that the scandall
of his 'offence had spread itselfe through diverse parishes, ordained
that he should undergo pcnnancc, and humble himselfe in turn in
the Churches after following, viz: that he should beginne his profes-
sione of repentance at Keigge, from thence go to Touch, from Touch
to Alfoord, from Alfoord to Tillyncssel, from Tillynessel to Forbes,
and from Forbes to return to Keigge again.
[discipline]
Diverse ministers gave in a rcgrate, that thcr was great profanatione
of the Lord's day by timbermcn travelling and carrying their timber from
the Highlands to the low country mcrcats, befor, after, and in time of
divine service. It is recommended to the moderator, to write to the
moderator of Kinkardin (within whose precinct many of the said timber-
men reside) that course may be taken by the meitting of their Exercise
for restraining of such abuse.
Alfoord, July 23, 1663.
Mr. William Burnett preached a popular sermon upon Matthew 24,
37, the doctrine being censured and approven.
Compeered Mr. Robert Irvin, Student of Divinitie, clothed with a letter
from the Bishop of Aberdene, directed to the moderator and brethren of
the Exercise of Alfoord, bearing that he hade seen two presentationes
granted by the Earle of Marre, one granted in favour of the said Mr,
Robert Irvin to the Church of Strathdounc, another in favour of Mr.
David Milne to the Church of Glenbucket, wherupon the said Mr. Robert
and Mr. David were recommended to our meitting of the Exercise, which
was therby warranted to proceed to thcr tryalls for thes respective
imployments. The brethren having considered the said letters, and
having received in favors of the said Mr. Robert sufficient testimonials
from the Professors of Divinitie, and the meitting of the Exercise of Aber
dene, in the precinct wherof the said Mr. Robert did reside, and finding
1663] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 19
themselves thcrunto warranted, did appoint the said Mr. Robert to have
an exercise upon Romans 14, 3, as the first point of his tryalls at Alfoord,
August 13, which is appointed to be the day of our nixt meitting. Fur
thermore the moderator did declare that, in reference to the issue of the
above specified commissiones, directed to the Earle of Marre, he hade
received from his Lordship a bond, under the hand of the said Mr. Robert,
bearing his condescendence to the accommodatione of some lands of the
parish of Strathdoune, as is above exprest by the report of the commis
sioners directed to his Lordship, the tenor of which bond after followes : —
" Be it kend to all men by thes presents that wheras it hath pleased
the Right Honble. and Noble Lord, John Earle of Marre etc., to present
Mr. Robert Irving, Student of Divinitie, to the service of the cure of the
Kirk of Invernochty, having considered the vastnes of the said charge,
and the discommodiousnes of some parts of that parish, and particularly
of the lands of the daauch of Glenkindie, which cannot be sufficiently
served by the minister of the said Kirk in regard of the distance therof
from the samen, and having advised the same with some of the brethren
of the Exercise of Alfoord, within the bounds wherof the said parish of
Invernochty lyes, and knowing it to be the earnest desire of the brethren
of the said Exercise to have the said tlaauch of Glenkindie, for the more
commodious service therof in the Word and Sacraments, adjoyned to the
Kirk of Glenbuchet, will ye me therfor to be bound and oblidged, and by
thes presents I do faithfully bind and oblidgc me, notwithstanding of the
former presentatione, or of any letters of collatione and institutione, or of
any letters of horning that shall follow therupon, never directly or indi
rectly to come in the contrarie, or to obstruct any lawfull meannes that
are used for disvincting the said lands of the daauch of Glenkindy from
the church and parish of Invernochty, and for vincting the same to the
church and parish of Glenbuchet, and that upon the first disvinctione of
the said lands from the church of Invernochty by any lawfull judicatorie,
civill or ecclesiasticall, I do renounce myself of the charge of the said
lands, and of all rents, fruits, and emoluments payable to me in the books
of the Exercise of Alfoord, or Synod books of Aberdene, or any other books
being in force within this kingdome, that such use may be made therof,
and such extracts may be made therefrom as shall be found convenient.
And to that effect constitut \blank in original'} de rata,
by thes presents written by Mr. Adam Barclay, and subscribed with
20 RECORDS OF THE MEETING
my hand at Kincausie, the twelfth clay of May, 1663 years, befor thes
witnesses, John Irving of Kincausie, and the said Mr. Adam Barclay.
Jn. Irvin, witnes. Sic subscribitur
A. Barclay, writter, witnes. Mr. R. IRVING."
Patrick McKommie continued ut supra.
{discipline]
Mr. James Rosse gave in some relevant excuses for his absence the
former dyetts which were admitted.
[discipline]
It is reported that James Gordoune and Janet Innes had entered, and
were continuing in the professione of repentance at Towy.
It is ordained that the names of papists be transmitted to the modera
tor of Aberdene to be sent up to the Councell.
[discipline]
Anent William Andersoune, the minister of Kegge reported that he
hade refused to obey the ordinance of the mcitting. It is ordained that
the minister go on in processe against him.
Anent Beatrix Douglas, with whom the forsaid William Andersoune
o /
had confessed himself to have fallen in adulterie, the minister of Kegge
desired to be advised how to carry in reference to her, finding difficultic
how to ground a processe against her, in respect that the said William
hade once purged himself by his oath of adulterie with her, and yet hade
now again revived the scandall, by confessing himself perjured by his
former purgatione, which, it may be presumed, he wold have been loath
to have done to fix any guilt upon her, hade ther not been too much
truth as to the fact, neither could he be clear how to passe by her satis-
factione for taking away the now revived scandall. The matter being
ambiguous, as to grounding a legall processe against her, is referred to the
Dioccsian Synod for advice.
The moderator reported that he hade written to the moderator of
Kinkardin, anent the profancrs of the Lord's day, by traillers of timber,
but had received no rcturne. It was thought fitt, both with reference
to such within the precinct of Kinkardin, and others of that kind from
OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORI). 21
Abcrnethie, within tlie Diocese of Moray, that the matter be remitted
to the nixt Diocesian Synod, that a gcnerall course may be taken for the
restraining of such.
It is ordained that Mr. Gcorg Watsonc shall repair to the Church of
Strathdoune, and preach ther befor nixt meitting, and intimat that the
moderator is to hold Sessione ther upon the morrow, who is appointed
also to repair thither for that effect.
By reference from the Sessione of Lochell, compeered Georg Mitchell,
with his wife Isobcll Fyfc, and the said Gcorg was convicted of scanda
lous carriage, by frequently abusing and striking his said wife, for which
he was seriously admonished to walk more Christianly, and more
conjugally towards her, with certificationc that, if he contravene the
said aclmonitione he shall fall into church censure.
It is rcgrated by diverse of the brethren that many who come within
ther parishes at the terms of Whitsunday and Martinmas cannot tyme-
ously obtain testimonialls to bring alongst with them, in consequence of
the custome of diverse ministers within the precincts of other Exercises
to suffer or cause ther Scssiones exact money for the granting of ther
testimonialls. It is thought fitt that the matter be referred to the nixt
Diocesian Synod that it may be redressed.
By reference from the Sessione of Kildrummie, compccrccl Janet
Forbes, who hade been delate for the alleclged curing of James Gibbonc
of the epilepsie by charmes and sorcerie. [A part here illegible, refers to
one Elspet Thomson. See next minute.]
The said Janet being called, compeered, and being posed anent the
same, denyed that she knew the said James to be affected with any
disease, or that she hade used any manner of cure towards him. The
brethren (taking to considcratione, that the said Janet Forbes hade been,
for matters of that nature, this long time famous, and hade lurked under
the cunning of her secret conveyances, wherby she studied to elude
all censure) thought it convenient (seeing ther was no possibilitie of
discovering the said Janet's wickednes, but by the testimonie of those
who im ployed her, which they knew they wold not obtain, but by
passing by any censure against them) to call the forsaid James Gibbone,
Win. Gibbone his father, Agnes Dunbar his mother (who hade been
summoned to the meitting as imployers of the said Janet Forbes) that
they might bear witnes in the matter ; who being admitted by the said
Janet did tak the oath, and depouned as after follows : —
22 RECORDS OF THE MEETING
Wm. Gibbonc dcpouned, that Janet Forbes said to him that his soune
hade a disease called falling sicknes, and that she could cure him, and, to
that effect, promised him a belt to wear, and gave him a thing to be ground,
and given to his soune to drink three scverall mornings, which she said
was the afterbirth of a woman, and that his soune had received the belt
from her.
Agnes Dunbar dcpouned, that Janet Forbes said that her soune had a
disease which she called the rose, and that her soune had received for cure
therof a black thing like a powder, to be given him three mornings, which
she professed was of the matter befor exprest, and a belt which he wore.
James Gibbone himself dcpouned, that the said Janet said he hade the
rose, that she gave him for cure therof something to put among a drink
severall mornings, that she asked why he wanted a belt, that she pro
mised to give him one, and afterwards gave him the samen, and desired
him to keep it till such a tyme, which he thought was the Bride even, and
that she sent her soune to him, who received it back again.
The said Janet being called in, and hearing the depositiones read to
her, confessed she hade given the said James a belt, and that it was
within the belt which wold cure him, and it was the assc of a beanie's
navell. The brethren, taking the matter to ther consideratione, thought
fitt to cause it to be intimated from the severall pulpits the said Janet
her guilt, that all hence might look upon her as a charmer and sorceressc,
that none might imploy her for any cure under pain of censure, and for
what further course should be taken at her, it is referred to the nixt incit
ing of the Diocesian Synod.
By reference from the Sessione of Towy, compeered Alexr. Ogilvie,
who, by his own confessione, was convict of trelapse in fornicatione,
his third fall being with Margret Andersoune, as likwise of a qud-
relapse, his fourth fall being with Helen Straquhan in Abcrdene. It is
ordained that he repair to Aberdene, and report a testimoniall of his
satisfactione ther, and afterwards undergo the usuall pennance in Towy.
Alfoord, August 13, 1663.
Mr. Robert Irving exercised on Rom. 13, 3, 4, the doctrin being
censured was approven.
The nixt meitting is appointed to be at Alfoord, Sepr. 3, and it is
1663] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 23
appointed that Mr. Robert Irving preach a popular sermon upon John 10,
1 1, as the nixt poynt of his tryalls.
Mr. David Milne, having been recommended back by the Bishop to
our meitting of the Exercise, was licentiat, and warranted to preach, and
it was recommended to him to supplie the vacancie of Glenbuchet as
frequentlic as he can, till he be admitted minister ther.
Patrick McKommie continued ut supra.
It is reported that James Gordoune and Janet Innes had satisfied
Towy, and nixt tyme ordained to Kildrummie.
The moderator reported, that he hade sent the names of papists to the
moderator of Aberdene, to be sent by him to the Councell.
[discipline]
Mr. Georg Watsone reported preaching at Strathdoune, and the
moderator that he hade kept Scssione ther. Mr. William Duncaune
to repair to Strathdoune, and hold Sessione.
(Two lines not legible.)
[discipline]
Alfoord, September 3, 1663.
Mr. Robert Irving preached a popular sermon on John 10, 11, the
doctrin being censured it is approven.
It is ordained that the next meitting be at Alfoord, Septr. 24, and Mr.
David Milne to preach a popular sermon on Matth. 6, 33, as part of his
tryall, in order to his admissione to the Church of Glenbuchet, and Mr.
Robert Irving to handle the controversie De efficacia gratiac, October 8.
Patrick McKommie continued ut supra.
It is reported that James Gordoune and Janet Innes hade entered,
and were continuing in the professionc of repentance at the Kirk of
Kildrummie.
[discipline]
No report anent William Andcrsoune, in regard of the minister's
absence, who was excused in regard of weakncs and infirmitie of bodie.
Mr. William Duncaune reported that he hade obeyed the ordinance
in holding Sessione at Strathdoune.
[discipline']
24 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1663
By reference from the Sessione of Kildrummie, Marjorie Reid (who
hade been delate bcfor the said Sessione for curing of Klspet Thomsoune
of the epilcpsie by charming and sorceric) having been summoned, is
called, as likwise the said Klspct Thomsounc having been summoned,
is called, and neither of them compeering, it is ordained that they be
summoned pro 2°.
Alfoord, Sep. 24, 1663.
Mr. David Milne preached a popular sermone upon Matthew 6, 33, the
doctrin being censured is approver, The next meitting is appointed to
be October 8.
Patrick McKommie ut supra.
It is reported that James Gordoune and Janet Inncs arc continuing
in the professionc of repentance.
Mr. John Mair was excused for his absence the former civet, upon a
relevant reasoune.
Margret Inncs being called, and not compeering to object against
anything in the processe against her, it is ordained that the processe be
abstracted, and transmitted to the Bishop, that, by his authorise, sentence
of excommunicatione may be pronounced against her.
It is reported that Win. Andersoune hade not yet entered to the
professionc of repentance, but it is thought that he will shortlie enter.
\cliscipline\
Marjorie Reid and Elspct Thomsoune having been summoned,^ were
called, the said Marjorie Reid compeercd, but, in respect the said Klspet
Thomsoune, who hade imployed her, compeercd not, the said Marjorie is
charged apud acta to compeer the nixt meitting, and it is ordained the
said Klspct be summoned therto pro 3°.
By reference from the Sessione of Alfoord, compeercd John Ander
soune and Klspet Sutherland his wife, who were convict of drunkennes
and scandalous carriage thcrby, on the Lord's day ; the said Klspet hav
ing miscarried profanely and lasciviously with one David Leyth, a tinker
and vagabond. It is ordained that they satisfie and do pcnnancc in sack-
cloath befor the congrcgationc of Alfoord, and to that effect are remitted
back to the said Sessione. Ancnt the said David Leyth, it is resolved
(in regard he is a vagabond, upon whom a pcrsonall summons could not
1663] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 25
be fixed) that his name be given up to the nixt Diocesian Synod, that
where he may be found, he may be charged to return, and satisfie the
discipline of Alfoord.
The minister of Towy gave in a processe led against Allaster Fergus
and Janet Cran, upon their convictione for theft, and a littcrall summones
lawfully execute and indorsed, wherby the said Allaster and Janet were
charged to hear and see the said processe visited, and to object if they
hade anything in the contrarie ; who being called and not compeering,
the processe visited is approven, and ordained to be transmitted to the
Bishop to receive his auctoritie for pronouncing the sentence of ex-
communicatione against them.
Alfoord, October 8, 1663.
Mr. Robert Irving handled the controversie De efficacia gratiae, and
was therm approven.
Patrick McKommie is continued ut supra.
It is reported anent James Gordoune and Janet Innes, that they are
continuing in the professione of repentance ; that Gilbert Touch hade for
some days intermitted the publick professione of repentance, and it is
expected that he will shortly appear befor their Sessione to give account
therof.
Ancnt William Andersoune ut supra.
It is reported that Alexr. Ogilvie had entered to give satisfactionc to
the discipline of Touch, and had petitioned that he might have libertie to
discontinue his publick satisfactione for some space, that he might repair
to Keyth, for reporting a testimoniall thence, that, after he hade fully
satisfied, there might be no let to his absolutione, which petitione was
granted.
{discipline}
The said day, Marjorie Reid and Elspet Thomsoune being called,
compeered, and the said Elspet being convict by her own confessione
that she hade imployed the said Marjorie for her cure, was posed what
kind of cure the said Marjorie had used towards her, and declared that the
said Marjorie, sitting upon her knees, hade caused her sitt down upon her
knees forgainst her, and speaking words unintelligible by her, save that
26 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1663
she remembered that she mentioned the name of St. John the Baptist,
and washed her face at every word with water, all which the said
Marjoric confessed, save only that she allcdged that she used but ane
intelligible charme, which she used to say for fevers. It is resolved that
the matter be referred to the nixt Diocesian Synod, to advise what course
shall be taken therm, and that, in the mean tyme, the scverall brethren
intimat from their pulpits, that none imploy the said Marjorie for any
cure under pain of censure.
It is reported that John Andersoune and Elspeth Sutherland hade
not yet appeared befor the Sessione of Alfoord.
The said day, the severall brethren were severally removed for privie
censure, and were approved for their carriage, both in their calling and
conversatione.
It is reported by James Ross, minister at Cabrach, that wheras, by
(decree?) of the Presbitrie of Alfoord and Synod of Aberdene, the lands
of Strathdiverane were disjoined from the parish of Mortlich and united
to Cabrach (that the said lands with those of the Cabrach might mak up
ane competent parish) Mr. Thomas Stewart is studying to withdraw the
lands of Strathdiverane from Cabrach, and the and emolu
ments therof
(The rest not legible.)
NOTE. — In Alford Record the leaves here are misplaced, also part is illegible and part
awanting, but is supplied from Minute Book of Synod of Aberdeen — the parts supplied being
in Synod Record, pages 13-23 — nearly the whole minute of this Synod.
The Diocesian Synod of Aberdene holden in the Colledge Kirk of
Old Aberdene, and begun upon the twentie sevent day of October,
the year of God 1663 yearis, by the Right Reverend Father in God
Alexander, by the mercie of God Lord Bishope of Aberdene.
Sessio prima 27 Octr. 1663. Ante meredicm, the said day.
1. After sermon had by the said Bishope in the Old Churche of St.
Machar, and incalling of the name of God in presence of the Synod, the
roll of the ministers names within this Diocie was called, and absents
notted, who are as followes, viz. : Mr. John Mercer, Mr. Andrew
Gray, Mr. Robert Forbes, Mr. Thomas Forbes, Mr. William Forbes at
Inverurie, Mr. Alexander Strachane at Chapel of Gareoche.
2. Bretherene appointed for the privie censures ar as followes, viz. : Mr.
1663] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 27
William Douglas Professor of Divinitie, Mr. Alexander Midletoune, Mr.
John Mcnzies, Mr. George Burner., Mr. Andrew Skene, Mr. Adame
Barclay, Mr. George Gardyne, Mr. James Gorcloune, Mr. William Scroggie,
Mr. William Stevinsone, Mr. William Gray, Mr. Arthure Ros, Mr. James
Mure, Mr. Gilbert Andersone, Mr. William Seattoune, Mr. Alexander
Ros, Mr. William Gordone.1
Sess. 2° eodem die post merediem.
3. After prayer had by the Lord Bishope, the haill Actis of the last
proceeding Synod wer red and the practise therof recommended to all the
ministers of this Diocie within ther severall precincts.
4. It is ordered that a day of solemne thanksgiving be observed in the
congregationes of this Diocie upon the fift day of November, for that
great and mcrciefull delyverance of King James the sixt of blessed
memorie, and the royall familie, hatched and contryved against them,
and by the great mercie of God discovered.
5. (Visitors appointed for the Presbytery Books.)
Sess. 3° ante merediem 28 Octr. 1663 — Wednesday.
6. It is inacted and ordered that none be recommended for collatione,
ordinatione, or licences, but men of known integritie, loyall principles,
blamles conversatione, and weell disposed towardis the government of
Church and State.
7. It is inacted and ordered that those licenced, or to be licenced
to preach shall be requyred to subscryve the promise to canonicall
obedience.
8. It is inacted that evrie minister shall labor to perswade the people
to uniformitie and canonical! obedience, and in caice they shall not tak
paines herein, they shall be represented to the Lord Bishope, that he may
proceed against them.
9. It is inacted that all ministeris as aither have, or not subscryved
the declaratione for canonicall obedience, and who shall be found seduce-
ing aither his awin people, or people under the charge of other ministeris,
by laboring to infuse in them such principles as ar contrarie to the due
obedience of the canones of the Synocle, especiallie to the canon relating
to the gesture in publick worshipe, shall be proceeded against as ane con-
temner of the canones of the Synode.
1Note 11.
28 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1663
10. The said day it is declared the judgement of the Bishope and
Synode that the moderator of the Exercise of Turrcffc shall requyre
legallie, under hand of instrument, Mr. Nathaniell Marteinc to delyvcr
the old Presbetrie Buik of Deir, and in caice he shall not doe the same,
that with all conveniencie report be made to the Bishopc by the modera
tor of Turreffe to proceed against him as he shall be advysed, and that it
be reported to the Privie Councill.1
Sess. 4°. eodem die ante meridiem.
11. It is ordered that such as have not been put to it to subscryve the
profcssione of Canonicall obedience shall be requyred by the scverall
Moderators to subscryve the same primo qnoque tcmporc, and in caice
they doe not, to be processed, and the processe to be represented to
the Bishope befor any censure shall pass against them or any of them.
12. It is recommended by the Bishope to the haill bretherine of the
Synode, that they buy from John Forbes, Stationer, the queries, replyis,
and duplyis of the Doctoris of Aberdcne, and Professors of Divinitic ther,
at the pryce of fyfteene shillingis Scottis money the peecc, as also it is
thought fitt that the declinator of the Bishopes at the pretended Asscm-
blie in Glasgow be printed and bought by the haille bretherine of the
Synode."
13. It is ordained that, upon a delatione given in against Mr. William
Rires, minister of Lonmey, upon a flieing report of diveris scandallis re
lating to him, that the following bretherine viz. (names given) shall meit
the first Wcdnisday of Marche nixt to come 1664 yearis (fyve wherof
being a quorum) with continuatione of dayis, at the said Kirk wher the
said Mr. William is to preach, and the said Mr. William Scroggie, minis
ter at Rathven is to moderate, to try and cognosce upon all scandallis
relating to his conversatione and discharge of his ministeriall functione ;
as also his sufficiencie in the samcn. And it is heerby provyded that, if
a lybeller present a lybell tymouslie to the moderator of the said meiting,
the said lybell shal be sent along to the said Mr. William Rires fourteine
dayis befor the meiting, wherby he may be the better prepared to answer
to the said lybell, and that the said moderator issue furth sumondses
tymouslie to all the witnesses to be contained in the said lybell, for ther
appearances befor the said meiting ; but in caice ther be no lybell
iNote 12. 'Note 13.
1663] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 2Q
presented as saicl is, that the saidis bretherinc shall conveene with the
Exercise of Deir, and try all the grounds they can find concerning
the fama clamosa, and report therof to be made to the Bishope.1
Sess. 5°. 29 Octr. 1663 Ante merediem — Thursday.
14. It is ordained that all papistis recusantis who have been borne and
baptized within our Churche after meanis used for reclaiming them, and
they still continue obstinat and contumaceous be processed according to
the order of the Churche.
15. It is ordained that, in respect some gentlemen and persones of
qualitie have sent ther childrene beyond seais to be educated in popishe
Universities, as also that little care is takin at home for bringing up of
such childrene in the knowledge of the truthe by ther parentis, tutors, and
overseeris, that a letter be directed to his grace the Lord Bishope of Sanct
Andrewis, to the end his grace would be pleased to interpose himselffe
with His Majestic, that ane effectuall restraint may be put on this
spreading leprosie of poperie, and that a solide way may be takin for
training up the forsaid childrene in the Protestant rcligione, especiallie
the young noble Lord the Marques of Huntlie, and that the childrene
alreddie sent abroad be reduced.
1 6. It is ordained that all quakeris and other sectaries, and mantean-
eris of erroneous principles, and deserteris of ordinances (after meanis
used to reclaim them), shall be proceeded against with the censuris of the
Churche."
1 8. It is ordained, in regard to a reference made by the Presbetrie of
Alford to the Synocle, anent Beatrix Douglas, that the scandall of her
supposed adultcrie with Williame Andersone be tryed by the Sessione of
Keg and the Exercise of Alford, and evident grounds being found
for the scandall, that the censure of the Churche be execute against
her accordinglie.
19. It is inacted that evrie minister goe exactlie about familie exercise
in having morning and evening prayeris, together with reading some par-
cellis of Holy Scripture, and that they shall stirr up and exhort the people
1 Note 14. - Note 15.
30 RECORDS OF THE MEETING
to goc about such ductics, and evric Lordis day they shall catechcisc thcr
families, and that, at the visitatione of families within their parochines,
they shall punctuallie and exactlic inquyre whither or not familie worship
has been practi/.ed among- theme, and if they shall find that in some fami
lies these ductics have not beene performed, that they be exhorted and
requyrcd to goc about the performance of the same.
20. It is inacted that the Lordis day be exactlie keeped, and that all
attend the hearing and reading of the Word befor sermone, and that none
depairt from the Churche befor the pronouncing of the blessing, and that
visitors be appoyntcd by the minister, throw the sevcrall pairtis of the
parochin, for visiting taverns and ailhouscs, that ther be no excessive
drinking, nor that the people continue tipling in these places, but that,
with all diligence, they repair to ther awin homes for going about ther
severall familie dueties, sutablc to the holyncs of the day, and that ther
be no bargaining, buying, selling, feeing of servandis, or any other secular
cffearis gone about on the Lordis day.
21. It is inacted that all the moderators in the Diocie give anc
accompt of the vackancies of churches within ther precincts to the
Bishope, since the year 1658, and that betwixt and the first of Januar
nixt, and what is taken up of vakand stipendis by Mr. Wilkie, Collector
generall, or any of his deputies.
23. It is ordained that these be the pryces payable to the Bishopis
Clerk viz. : for edict and collatione fyve shillingis sterlinc ; certificat for
ordinatione fyve shillingis sterline ; and registrationc of ane presentatione
fyve shillingis sterline ; licences halff ane crowne ; for edict and preceptis
twa shillingis sterline.
24. It is inacted that the present incumbentis at the severall Churches
within this Diocie shall persue for the executione of the Act of Parlia
ment relating to the freeing of ther manses, and setling of ther gleebis
and grasses, betwixt this and October nixt 1664. Likewayis that the
incumbentis at unprovyded Churches shall use all order of law for
provyding thcr Churches with augmentatione of stipendis within the
tyme forsaid, and that all intrantis shall doe the same within a year
after ther entrie.
1663] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 31
26. It is ordained that the moderator of the Exercise of Fordyce, with
two of the bretherene, and the moderator of the Exercise of Alford, with
one of the bretherene of that Exercise, shall perambulat the landis of
Strathdoverainc, and to represent the commodiousnes of disjoyning the
said landis from the parochin of Morthlick, and joyning them to the
parochin of Cabrache, and that the dyet for the perambulatione shall be
last Tuysday of Marche nixt.
27. It is inactecl that notice be taken of such as travell on the
Lordis day, and the minister in whose parochines he leive be acquaint
ed thenvith, and censure them according to the qualitie of the offence.
28. It being represented that ther is ane grosse abuiss committed by
guseris, especiallie at Yooletyme, and therby, it is ordained that evrie
minister in his awin parochin tak notice of them, and with advyse of the
bretherine of the Exercise, inflict such censure on them as the qualitie of
the offence shall deserve.1
29. It is ordained that the names of fugitives from the discipline of
the Churche be delyvcred to the Clerk of the Synod, and that ther names
be insert in the referris of the severall bretherine of the Exercises, and be
intimat from the severall pulpitis.
Sess. 6°. eodem die post merediem.
30. It is ordained that the bretherine of the respective Presbetries of
Alford and Kinkardyne, or suche of them as the respective moderators
therof shall mutuallie agree upon, appoynt ane dyet for perambulating
suche boundis within both, or ather of the said Exercises, as neids to be
Jooked on for the better accommodatione and good of soules within both
or ather of the precinctis therof, and shall represent ane accompt therof
to the nixt Synocle.
31. It is ordered that all personis titularis of teyndis shall, with all
convenient diligence, persue for the possessione of the teyndis legallie
belonging to the respective churches that ar personages within this
Diocie.2
34. It is ordained that penalties and peinnall fynes be insert in the
Sessione buikis as formerlie.
35. Anent frequent absentis from Presbyteriall meetingis, it is ordered
1 Note 16. - Note 17.
RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1663
0"
that the brctherine of the Exercises shall call them to ane accompt
for ther absence, and impose a picnnall mulct upon them, and
shall continue carles to frequent meitingis to proceed to further c
according to the absentis dclinquencie, and ther discretione.
36 The report of the book of the Exercise of Aberdene being giver
in by the visitors is found culpable in the proceedings with Mr. Williame
Mitchell, in not exacting from him satisfactionc as to his submission
the present civile and ecclesiastick government.
27 It is ordained that wheras, by the visitors of the book of At
dene a report was made of the laird of Cragivarr his dispossessing of Mr.
George Meldrum, minister at Fintrey, of a great pairt of his gleib a
landis belonging duclie to the Churche, that the said Mr. George shall
-ive in full informatione to the Bishop, whilk his lordship is to pres<
with all conveniencie to the commissione for the plantation of Kirkis,
wherby the said Churche may be repossessed to what formerhc die
belong therto.
^o Wheras ther was a reference made by the Exercise of Alford to
the Bishope and brethcrine of this Synode, anent Janet Forbes anc
Marjorie Reid, charmeris, it is ordered that the said persones, and all
otheris guyltie of suche crymes, shall satisfie in sackcloath and bare
footed, untill the scandall be removed.
A2 It is ordained that the brctherine of the Exercise of Dcir shall
labor to suplie the vaikancics in the Presbetrie of Deir viz. : _ Pcterhead
Fraserburghe, Aberdoure, Pitsligo, and that they shall not imploy any
persone or persones presented by my Lord of Pitsligo or Lairds
Philorth to two of the said Kirkis viz.: Aberdoure and Pitsligo, until
the Bishope be acquantcd therwith.1
Sessio 7°. 30 Octr. 1663 Ante merectiem— Fredday.
47 It is ordained that suche as have not subscryved the declaratione
of Canonical! obedience viz. : within the Exercise of Aberdene, Mr John
Mercer, minister at Kynellar ; Mr. Alexander Lcask, minister at Marie-
culter • Mr. Williame Cheyne, minister at Dyce ; Mr. Thomas Ros, minis
ter at'Aboyne within the Exercise of Kinkardyne, shall be present!)
1 Note 18.
1663] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 33
rcquyred to subscryve the declaratione, having hade formerlic sufficient
tyme for informatione and clecring any doubtis ; vvherupone they being
called, compeared only the said Williame Cheyne, and Mr. Thomas Ros,
and desyred a litle more tyme, whilk being indulged to them and a quar
ter of a year being allowed to them for ther further informatione, it is
inacted that the said tyme being cxpyred after three severall admonitiones
given to them by the moderators of ther several Exercises, they shall be
declared contumacious, and ther names sent to the Bishope, and the lyke
indulgence and tyme is granted to the absentis.
44. It is inacted that the severall moderators of the severall Exercises
inquire de now of the brethren, what obedience is given to the canons of
the former Synod, and that they mak their report of their dilligcncc to
their respective Moderators.
45. It is ordered that no young men shall be recommended by the
moderators of the severall Exercises to the Bishope for licence to
preach, but such as, amongst other qualificationes, have subscryved the
declaratione of Canonicall obedience, and that such as are now preach
ing, and have not subscryved the forsaid declaratione, neither have yet
given obedience to the Act of the former Synod, so far as they are
concerned, shall be requyred by the severall moderators, with all
convenience, to subscryve the forsaid declaratione, and to give obed
ience as said is, and if within a moneth after they are requyred and
conferred with by the moderators, or any other who shall be deputed
for that effect, that report be made to the Bishope, that his Lordship
may exercise his authority by silencing them if he shall think fitt.
46. It is ordained that evrie minister shall have a care that none shall
preach in the pulpits of the severall precincts, but such as are licenced,
approven, and allowed by the Bishope, and if any shall be imployed to
preach in any place within this Diocie, without consent of the minister in
the place, then, and in that case, the minister shall enter a protestatione
against it, whilk protestatione, under instrument, shall be insert in the
Presbytrie book.
47. It is ordered by the Bishope, in his absence out of the kingdom,
that the moderators shall licentiate such men to preach, as shall be found
qualefied, and well affected towards the present government, which they
are to evidence by subscryving the declaratione of Canonicall obedience
and oath of allegiance,
E
34 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1663
48. It is ordained that, if any scandalous rcporto pass in the country,
upon any of the ministers within this Diocie, that, in that case, the
moderators and brethren of the severall Exercises shall be dilligent in
trying if ther be any ground for the said scandall, and if any shall be
found, after the brethren have questioned him concerning the said scan
dall and ground of the sammcn, if ther be any probable grounds for
moving the said scandall, the moderators and brethren of the Exercises
shall judiciallie try the ground of the sammen, and make reporte to
the Bishope.
49. The Synod taking it to consideratione how nccessarie and laudable
it is that ministers, masters of Schooles and Universities, and Students of
Divinitie be grave in their apperall, it is herby ordained that they use
apperall beseeming their degrees, and abstaine from all lyght and new
fangled garments in colour or fashion, no wayes beseeming the gravitie of
their personnes and paces, and in particular that they have not powdered
or long hair, varietie or multitude of ribbons, varietie in their linnens, and
that the moderators of the severall Exercises take notice of the forsaid
exorbitances, and make report to the next Synod.
50. It is ordained that, if any deposed ministers shall speak against
the present government, or exercise any pairte of the ministeriall func-
tione, especiallie by lecturing or catechising in families, wherby they may
corrupt by dangerous principles, and weaken the hands of the present
incumbent, after sufficient tryall therof shall be made, reporte shall be
made to the Lord Bishope, and they summoned to appear befor him.
51. It is ordained that all moderators of the several Exercises be
continued as formerlie.
Sic Subbr.
Mr. GEO. MYLN, Clerk.
Fugitives exhibited to the Clerk by the brethren of the Exercise of
Alfoord, wherof as followes, &c.
(Page 20 of Alford Record is blank.)
At Aberdein October 30, 1663.
The moderator and brethren of the Exercise of Alfoord did mcitt, and
appointed their next meitting to be at Alfoord December 2, 1663, and no
exercise to be in regard of the shortness of the day.
1664] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 35
Alfoord December 2, 1663.
It is appointed that the nixt meitting be at Alfoord January 6, and
Mr. Wm. Burnett is ordained to handle the controversie " De Iconolatria "
as the third point of his tryall, in reference to licentiating him to preach.
It is ordained that the minister of Auchindoir cause summone Patrick
McKommic to the nixt meitting of the Exercise, to hear and see if he
hade anything to object against the processe led against him.
Anent James Gordoune, the minister of Kildrummie reported that the
said James, conforme to the ordinance, hade satisfied in the severall
churches in which he was appointed to satisfie, and hade reported to him
the severall ministers' testimonies theranent, and lykwise that he hade
satisfied the discipline of the church of Kildrummie, and was thence
referred to this meitting to receive order for his absolutione, wherupon,
after his humble appeerance, the brethren did referr him back to be
absolved by the minister of Kildrummie befor the congregatione.
It is reported anent Janet Innes, that slice having desisted from the
professione of repentance, the minister of Kildrummie hade continued the
processe against her, and hade prayed for her pro i°. Nov. 22.
No report anent William Andersoune.
[discipline]
It is ordained that the minister of Kildrummie cause charge Marjorie
Reid to the nixt meitting to receive her sentence conforme to the forsaid
referre, as lykwise that he sumonne Elspet Thomsoune to compeer to the
nixt meitting to receive her sentence.
At Alfoord, January 6, 1664.
Mr. Wm. Burnett handled the controversie De Iconolatria, and was
therin approved.
The nixt meitting is ordained to be held at Alfoord Feby 3, and
the said Mr. William is ordained to maintain dispute on the forsaid
controversie, and to undergo his qucstionarie tryall.
It is reported that the minister of Auchindoir hade not yet sumonned
Patrick McKommie to this meitting, wherupon hee is ordained to sum
onne him to the nixt meittinp;.
35 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1664
It is reported that James Gorclounc was absolved at Kildrummie
December 6 ; and by the minister of Kildrummie that lice had publickly
prayed for Janet Inncs pro 2°. December 20, pro 3". Jany 3d.
By reference from the Scssione of Alfoord compeered John Ander-
sounc and Elspct Sutherland to receive order for their absolutione and
arc remitted back to their own minister for that effect.
[discipline}
The minister of Kildrummie reported that Marjoric Reid was sum-
onned to this dyct, as likwise Elspet Thomsoune, who being called, not
compccring, it is ordered they be sumonned pro 2".
Alfoord Fcbry 3, 1664.
Mr. Wm. Burnett sustained dispute, and did undergo his questionarie
tryall, and having been approvcn in all the points of his tryalls, in regard
of the Bishop his absence out of the Kingdome, conforme to the Act of
the Synod, the brethren did licentiat the said Mr. Wm. to preach the
The nixt mcitting is appointed to be held at the Kirk of Kenneth-
mont for the trying of a fragrant scandall which was fleeing abroad
upon Mr Robt. Cheync, minister their, that hce should have cause
lead his comes in Octr. last, upon the Lord's day in the
The minister himself is appointed to intimate the meitting for that
purpose to bee upon the second day of March, and the said mtimatione
is to bee made from the pulpit, the Lord's day come eight dayes
and the officer of the Presbitrie is ordained to summon all the members
of the Sessione, all the minister's domesticks, the inhabitants of Syde
mill of Syde, Cragtounne, Pooll, and Kirkhill, who were allcdged to be
actors in the said businesses, or at least witnesses therof;
Robert Dunbarre is to preach at the said dyet, and no other c
is to be exercised that day.
None from the minister of Auchindeor compeered with any repo
anent Patrick McCommie.
The minister of Kildrummie reported that Janet Innes hade ap
peared befor their Sessione, and hade offered herself to enter again t
her repentance.
1664] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 37
The minister of Alfoord reported that, upon some consideratione, he
hade not yet absolved John Andersoune and Elspet Sutherland.
[discipline]
Compcered Marjorie Reid, who is ordained to repair to the Church of
Kildrummic, and satisfie ther in sackcloath and barefooted, conformc to
the Act of Assemblie theranent.
The minister reported that Elspet Thomsoune was summoned to this
dyet, who being called and not compeering, it is ordained that she be
summoned pro 3°.
The said day, the referres from the Diocesian Synod were read and
recommended.
In reference to the Act of the Synod anent Beatrix Douglas, it is
recommended to the minister of Kegge to mak dilligent search and
tryall into the scandalous carriage of the said Beatrix with William
Andersoune, and to search what presumptions he can find out of her
adulterie with him, and how soon he can find out any probable grounds
therof, or any matter of scandall that can be made out against her,
that he mak report therof to the meitting of the Exercise.
Kinethmont March 2, 1664.
The said day, Mr. Robert Dunbarre preached on i Tim. 4, 6.
A literall summones, lawfully execute and indorsed, was given in
against the persounes following viz. : James Cowttis in Kirkhill, John
Cowttis ther, John Wright Earlsfield, Gcorg Rosse ther, James Ander
soune ther, James Robertson in Syde, James Reidfurd in (blank), John
Gordoune in Kirkhill, William Layng in (blank), Alexander Garioch in
Kirkhill, as actors and witnesses against the minister, in the matter of the
scandall of the breach of Sabbath mentioned in former minute, and
alledged to have been made by the said minister of Kinethmont and his
familie. The forsaid persounes being called compeered. Compeered also
severall of the elders of the Sessionc. Seriouse consideratione being hade
if ther could be any other found that could give clearnes or notice in the
said busieness, it was found that, if any clearnes was to be made therin,
it was to be made out by the forsaid persounes, and that therefore
others were not summoned, as dwelling at such a distance that they
3g RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1664
could neither be privic to, nor witnesses of anything in the forsaid
scandall.
Mr. Robert Cheyne the minister being called, compeered, o
is enquired if he hade ought to except against the forsaid persouns, why
they might not bear witnes in the matter alledged against him.
declared he could except nothing against any of them. Wherupon they
are solemnly sworne, and under oath did depone as followes viz
James Cowttis deponed, that when they came their minister forbade
them to lead, and said lie hade rather corne should go with the water, and
that he went away from them, but that they lead the corncs, and that he
did the same upon the call of the minister's wife, and that it was the night
following.
John Cowttis deponed that he came ther, but that the mimste
not imploy him, and that he saw not the minister that night.
James Wright deponed that he was not ther himselfe, but that the
minister's wife desired help from him for leading of the corncs, and that
he hade sent a servant and a horse.
Georg Rosse deponed that he was not imployed by the minister,
neither was he ther himselfe, but that, upon a desire from the minister's
wife he hade sent his soune, a young boy, with a horse.
James Andersoune deponed that he was not at home himselfe, but
by a call from the minister's wife, he hade ther a child with a horse, and
that he had no call from the minister.
James Robertsoune nihil probat, James Reidfurd nihil probat.
John Gordoune deponed that he saw the horse leading, but that
sky was sett.
William Layng deponed that he heard them leading, but 1
he saw them not.
Alexander Garioch deponed that he saw them not, but that the mm
ter's wife had come to him seeking the lend of a pair of currecks.
It being enquired who was the bigger of the comes, it was found to
be Thomas Spence, the minister's servant, wherupon it was inquired
the minister, whither he woold admitt the said Thomas as a witness, who
declared he would not reject him nor any. The said Thomas being
solemnly sworne, depouned that he bigged the comes, but not imploye<
by the minister, but without his knowledge.
The brethren having considered the whole depositiones, founc
1664] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 39
minister directly under no guiltieness of the scandall, but only faultie in
that hee hade too little exercised his authoritie towards those of his own
familie, either in restraining or censuring such scandalous carriage, wher-
for they did gravely admonish him to rule well his own house, as he wold
wish to declare himselfe fit to rule in the house of God ; and that,
considering that he lived in the midst of enemies, he wold studie to
bee both himselfe and his familie spotles, and to tak heed to himselfe
and to the flock &c.
The minister's wife being called, and it being laid to her charge what
hade been depouned anent her by the forsaid witnesses, she is by her
own confessione likwise convict of the guiltieness of imploying the people
to lead their conies upon the Lord's day in the evening, and humbly
acknowledged her offence therm. It is ordained that she mak publick
professione of repentance for the same upon a Lord's day befor the
pulpit, upon a seat put their for that effect ; and Mr. Georg Garden is
ordained to preach and receive her to repentance, and upon her humble
professione to absolve her ; and, by a publick declaratione of the
brethren's care and diligence of searching into the said busieness,
should purge off the scandall therof, which was lying upon the said
Mr. Robt. Cheyne minister, and that this bee done some Lord's day
bcfor our nixt meitting.
It is found that some others within the parish of Kinethmont are lying
under a scandall of the lyk guiltienes of leading their cornes upon the
Lord's day, beside those that have concurred to lead the minister his
corne, wherfor the brethren do recommend to the minister and Sessione,
to go about the tryall of their guiltienes, and the measure therof, and that,
after they have judicially convicted both those that have lead cornes to
themselves, and those who have concurred in the leading of the minister's
corne, report should be made to the meitting of the Exercise, that course
might be taken for censuring them.
The brethren hearing it reported that the fabrick of the church of
Auchindoir was ruined, and receiving no reports from the minister, Mr.
Wm. Davidsoune of the exercise of his discipline, and considering that
the said Mr. Wm., in regard of his age and inabilitie, was unable to repair
to our meitting, did commission Mr. Robert Dunbarre and Mr. John
Walker to go to the said Mr. Wm. and seriously to recommend unto him
that he wold diligently go about the repairing of the fabrick of the
40 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1664
Church, and that they should studie to learne of him that discipline
were exercised within his parish, and mak report thcrof to the nixt
meitting.
It is appointed that the nixt meitting bee at Alfoord March 30, and no
exercise to bee the said day in regard the multiplicitie of affairs will tak up
the day.
Alfoord March 30, 1664.
The nixt meitting is appointed to be at Alfoord May 4, 1664, and Mr.
Adam Barclay, Moderator, ordained to exercise on the ordinarie matter.
The executione of a sumons was given in against Patrick McKommie,
and it being found therby that the said Patrick was not sumoncd to this
day, but that the clay hade been mistaken by him who hade charged him,
and gave in the executione, therfor, it is ordained that hce be sumoned de
novo.
It is reported that Janet Inncs hade satisfied at Kildrummie and
Cabbrach, and is now to bee transferred to Auchindoor to mak publick
professione of repentance their.
It is reported that the minister of Kegge is going on in processe
against Wm. Andersoune, and that he was publickly admonished pro i°.
March 13.
{discipline}
John Andersoune and Elspet Sutherland were absolved Eebry
penultimo.
It is reported that Marjorie Reid is entered and continuing in the pub-
lick professione of repentance.
Compeered Elspet Thomsoune, who was ordained to repair back to
her own Church of Kildrummie, and their mak her publick professione of
repentance in sackcloath and barefooted.
It is reported anent Beatrix Douglas, that nothing hade been found
that cold yet bee made out against her.
Mr. Georg Garden reported that he hade repaired to the Church of
Kinethmont March 13, and discharged in all points the ordinance of the
meitting of the Exercise, and that the minister's wife compeercd, and was
absolved.
The minister of Kinethmont reported that hce hade called befor the
Sessione all alledged guiltie within his parish of leading of cornes upon the
1664] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 41
Lord's day, and that they hade offered to declare upon oath that they
hade load none till after the sky setting. It is ordained that hee tak not
their own oath, but that hee examine witnesses against them, and mak
report.
Mr. Robt. Dunbarrc and Mr. John Walker reported that they hade
gone to Mr. Wm. Davidsounc, and that they hade found that hee was
using diligence for repairing of the fabrick of the church, and that hee
hade no matters of discipline, wherin the Presbitrie was concerned to
interpone their authentic.
. . . . Discipline — to appear barefooted and in sackcloth.
In regard that some heritors refused to mak payment for their burialls
within the Churches in some parishes within the precinct of our mcitting,
alledging that it was no reason that they who upheld the edifice should
pay for their burialls. It is referred to the nixt Diocesian Synod to bee
advised whither the heritors shal be lyable theirto or not.
Alfoord May 4, 1664.
Mr. Adam Barclay, Moderator, exercised Rom. 14, 5,6. The doctrine
being censured was approven.
The nixt meitting is appointed to be at Alfoord June I, and Mr.
Robert Cheyne ordained to exercise on the ordinarie matter, and Mr.
James Rosse to adde.
A literall sumons, legally execute was given in against Patrick
McKommie, wherby hee was cited to appear befor the meitting of the
Exercise, and their to give in (if hcc hade) any objectionc against the
cleductione of the processc lead against him. The said Patrick is called,
but compecred not, wherupon it is ordained that the processe be
extracted, and transmitted to the Bishope that the sentence of excom-
municatione may pass against him.
By reference from the Sessione of Kildrumie, compeered Janet Innes
(having satisfied the severall Churches according to the appointment) to
receive order for her absolutione, she is remitted back to the Kirk of Kil
drumie for that effect.
{discipline]
F
42 RECORDS OF THE MEETING
It is reported anent Wm. Andersoune, that the minister of Kcgge
hade publickly admonished him pro 2". Apryll 24.
It is reported anent Marjoric Reid, that she is continuing in the pub-
lick profcssione of repentance.
By reference from the Sessione of Kildrumie, compeered ,lspet
Thomsounc to receive order for her absolutionc, and is remitted back to
the Kirk of Kildrumie for that effect.
Nothing as yet found against Beatrix Douglas.
Anent the breakers of Sabbath by leading of corncs in the parish of
Kinethmont, the minister not being fully rype to give a perfect account
of that busieness, hcc is exhorted to go seriously and diligently about the
samen. . .
[discipline}
The said clay, Mr. Adam Barclay did deliver in presence of the bre
thren to Mr. Walter Ritchie, minister of Forbes, a contract that hade past
betwixt the Master of Forbes and the said Mr. Walter, and hade hitherto
lyen among the said Mr. Walter his father's writts, the tenor of which
contract is for a certain provision of the minister of Forbes and his
successors, and required the said Mr. Walter to have the same foorth-
coming for the use of the Church of Forbes.
Alfoord June ist, 1664.
Mr. Robert Cheyne exercised, and Mr. James Rosse added Rom. 14,
7-8. The doctrine being censured was approvcn.
The nixt meitting is appointed to be held at Alfoord July 6th, and
Mr. James Rosse to exercise, and Mr. David Milne to acklc.
The minister of Kildrumie reported that Janet Innes was absolved
May 8th.
Wm. Andersoune was admonished publickly pro 3° May ;
Anent Marjorie Reid that she continues in the professione of repent
ance.
Elspet Thomsoune was absolved May 6th.
Nothing as yet found that can be made out against Beatrix Douglas.
[discipline]
The minister of Kinethmont reported that, having examined such
1664] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORI). 43
witnesses as he could find against those who have lead their corncs
upon the Lord's day, the depositiones of the witnesses hade made out
nothing against them, but what formerly they themselves hade confessed.
It is ordained that he mak search for some other witnesses as yet, wherof
ther be some in the parish of Clatt, who (it is reported) can testifie more.
[discipline]
The minister of Kildrumie reported that hce hade written to the
minister of Kintor anent James Gordon, and hade as yet received no
answer.
[discipline]
By reference from the Sessione of Kinethmont, it is represented to the
meitting of the brethren that Hugh Gordoune of Kirkhill, Elspet Hay
his spouse, Margret Dunbar spouse to Thomas Gordoune of Mostown,
James Pirrie servant to Patrick Gordoune of Cults, hade been declared
befor the Sessione of Kinethmont (upon three several sumouns issued
against them to compeer and answer for their dishaunting of the ordinan
ces, and apostacie to Poperie, and upon their not appearance) contuma
cious, wherupon hee hade issued out sumons against them to appear this
day befor the meitting of the brethren, and gave in a litterall sumons
lawfully execute and endorsed against them. The saids Hugh, Elspet,
Margret, and James being called, and not compeering, it is ordained they
bee sumoncd pro 2°.
By reference from the Sessione of Kegge, it is represented to the
meitting of the Exercise that Mr. John Gordoune in Pittendreich hade
dishaunted the ordinances, and hade apostatised to Popery, wherupon
hee hade three severall tymes been sumoned to appear befor the said
Sessione, and not compeering, was declared contumax, as likwise for
not appearing befor the forsaid Sessione to answer for twofold fornica-
tione, for the one wherof hee hade been under processe immediately
befor his apostacie, and the other was comitted since. Having, as said
is, being declared contumax upon the first grounds, hee was now
sumoned to answer befor this meitting, and a litterall sumons lawfully
execute and endorsed was given in against him. The said Mr. John
being called, not compeering, it is ordained that hee bee sumoned pro 2°.
44
RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1664
Alfoord, July 6, 1664.
Mr. James Rossc exercised Rom. 14, 9, and Mr. David Milne added.
The doctrine was approven.
The nixt meitting is appointed to be at Alfoord July 27, and Mr.
David Milne is appointed to exercise.
The minister of Alfoord reported that Gilbert Touch was absolved
July 3-
Compecrcd Win. Anclersounc professing that his lying out from the
professione of repentance hade proceeded from fear of being taken notice
off and seized upon by thos who were searching after adulterers. The
brethren taking the same as a forged excuse, in regard that he hade lycn
out from his repentance bcfor there was any ground of such fear, declared
unto him that, unlesse he wold enter to the publick professione of repent
ance, the processe wold still go on against him till it should come to a
close.
By refcrance from the Session of Kildrumie compcered Marjorie Reid
to receive order for her absolutione. The brethren finding that she was
not yet come to such a sense of her guilticness as to mak ane ingenuous
confessione of her sinnc, they remitt her back to continue in the publick
profession of repentance.
Concerning Beatrix Douglas, it is recommended to the minister of
Kegge (that wheras yet sufficient ground could not bee found against her
to make out any guilt) to look out the Register for what presumptiones
the delatione hade made, to see if he might thence gather anything to
help him to a further procedure in that busiencss.
The minister of Kincthmont reported anent his Sabbath corne leaders,
hee had not as yet gotten any of them to attend befor him, he is required
to use more diligence therin, and to mak report the nixt meitting.
[discipline]
A literal! sumons, lawfully execute and endorsed, was given in
against Hugh Gordoune and Elspet Hay his spouse, Margret Dunbar
and James Peirie, who being called, and not compcering, it is ordained
they bee sumoned pro 3°.
A literall sumons, lawfully execute and endorsed, was given in against
Mr. John Gordoune, who being called, not compciring, it is ordained hee
bee sumoned pro 3°.
1664] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 45
By reference from the Sessione of Strathdoune, it is represented that
their hade been a grcivous outbreaking into some fearfull scandall of
profanatione of the Lord's day by some gentlemen of that parish, as
first by Arthur Andersoune of Kandacraig, Robert Andersoune his brother
germane, and Donald McKallaster, the said Robert's brother-in-law, who,
on the Lord's day, in the afternoon, at ane ailhouse, hade fallen into a
strugle, and hade violently pursued one another with drawen swords, and
the effusione of their bloods. As lykwise, upon another Lord's day, by
the said Donald McKallaster, John Forbes of Ledmakay, and Wm.
Forbes of New, who {mediately after divine service was pursued by the
said Donald McKallaster, and John Forbes assisted with Robert Ander
soune foresaid, befor the Kirkyard styll, where ingadging one another
with swords and pistolls, diverse present were imbarked into the busie-
ness, either as parties, or ridders, wherof the issue was much effusione
of blood and mutilatione of diverse persons, which the Brethren of the
Exercise taking to their consideratione, finding it to be a matter so
exceedingly scandalous, and the guilt therof so haynous, as if not severely
punished might prove such a bad preparative in that congregatione, as
that therby a door would be opened to others their (whose humors
sufficiently prompt them to break out into the lyk wickedness) to trace
the same steps upon any the least hope of impunitie, or a light censure,
wherby it shall come to passe that God shall bee highly dishonored, the
auctoritie of the ministrie mightily their weakned, and discipline rendered
contemptible; And finding it above them to inflict a censure suitable to
such guiltienes, which wold not rather be contemned than undergone by
such persons, thought it expedient to referre the wholl matter to the nixt
Diocesian Synod, that from the Bishop and Synod it might be represen
ted to the High Commissionc to be tryed by the Lords therof, that
the persons concerned might every one be punished according to the
measure of their guiltincs, and course might be taken for restraining
both thes and all others in that congregatione (who might be emboldened
by their example) from all such scandalous and haynous outbreakings
for the future.
[discipline]
The minister of Clatt, by reference from their Sessione, represented
that John Barclay hade been judicially convict befor them of residing
46 RECORDS OF THE MEETING
within the parish without reporting of a testimonic from the parish where
he hade formerly been, bceing scverall tymes required therto ; as lykwisc
of theft upon the Lord's day in tyme of divine service, as lykwisc of
fornicatione with Barbara Davidsoune, and that hcc was sumoned to
appear bcfor this meitting to be censured for the said guiltienes. Being
called, not compeiring, it is ordained that hee bee sumoned pro 2°.
[discipline]
At Alfoord July 27, 1664.
No doctrine by reason of the multiplicitie of affairs in hand, and the
speaker formerly appointed is ordained to have the doctrine at the nixt
meitting, which is appointed to be at Alfoord, August 24.
It is reported that Wm. Andersoune hade entered and was going on
in the publick professionc of repentance.
It is reported that Marjorie Reid is continuing in the public profes-
sione of repentance.
It is reported that the minister of Kegge is searching what he could
find out against Beatrix Douglas, and how soone hee should find out
anything that could bee probably made out, hee should acquaint the
meitting of the Exercise therwith.
The minister of Kincthmont reported that Arthur Dalgarnc, in the
parish of Clatt, had appeared and deponed anent those that had profaned
the Sabbath by leading of cornes, that he hade only heard by report from
the others that they hade lead befor the sun sett.
The minister of Clatt is ordained to cause sumon James Smith, with
his two servants and wife, to appear befor the Session of Kinethmont, to
bear witness in the said busienes.
[discipline}
The said day, compcired Alexr. Spence and Margret Sherar, who
clenyed, not only the fact of adultery, but all scandalous conversatione,
as lykwisc the said Margret clenyed her reviling the minister in face of
Sessione, they were charged apud acta to appear at the nixt meiting of the
Exercise to hear and see probatione lead against them, and it is ordained
that James Cuming, Anna Cuming, Janet Rynic, Hector Davidsoune,
and Elspet Thomsoune bee sumoned to the same dyet as witnesses, who
are supposed to bee the only persons who can testifie any thing in that
1664] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD.
47
matter. The said Margret Shcrar did moreover rcmitt the matter of her
alledged reviling the minister to any two elders of the Sessione, whom the
minister is ordained to sumon to the nixt meitting for that effect.
A literall sumons, lawfully execute and indorsed, was given in against
Hugh Gordoune, Elspct Hay, Margret Dunbar, and James Peirie, who
being called, not compeiring, are cleccrned contumacious. The brethren
judge it convenient befor they proceed further in their processc to send
some of their number to enquire at them the ground of their apostacie,
and to require them to give a declaratione of their faith, and commissioned
Mr. George Garden, (and) Mr. Robert Dunbar to go to them for that
effect.
It is reported that Mr. John Gordoune is not liveing in this part of the
country. It is ordained as yet that hee bee sumoned pro 3°., how soone
hec comes in the fields.
Alfoord August 24, 1664.
Mr. David Milne exercised Rom. 14, 10. The doctrine being censured
was approven.
The nixt meitting is appointed to be at Alfoord Sepr. 21, and Mr.
Win. Garioch ordained to exercise on the ordinarie matter.
By reference from the Sessione of Kegge compeired Wm. Andersounc
(having satisfied according to the ordinance at all the Churches whither
hee was ordained to repair, and where the scandall was most fragrant) to
receive order for his absolutione ; he is remitted back to the said Sessione
for that effect.
The minister of Kildrummic reported anent Marjorie Reid, that hee
hade debarred her from the publick profcssione of repentance, to see if
hee could git any further confessione from her.
[discipline]
The minister of Kildrummie reported that Margret Hendersoune
having been thrise sumoned from pulpit to appear befor their Sessione,
and not appearing, was declared contumax ; and being by their Sessione
referred to the Exercise was sumoned publickly out of pulpit to appear
this day befor the brethren, who being called, and not compeiring, it is
ordained that shee be sumoned pro 2°.
48 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1664
The minister of Kildrummie reported that hcc hade sumoned James
Gordoune publickly from pulpit, and, finding- him in the parish, hade
caused to sumon him also litera scripta to appear at this dyett, who being
called, not compciring, it is ordained that hee bee sumoned pro 3°.
Compeired Alcxd. Spence and Margret Sherar, compeired also as
witnesses to be examined in the matter of their scandalous conversa-
tione, Jcnet Rynie, Hector Davidsoune and Joan Grey, James Cuming,
and Anne Cuming, and Elspet Thomsounc, the said Alcxr. and Margret
being enquired if they hade any exceptiones against the saicls wit
nesses, declared they hade none against any of them, save against Anne
Cuming, who beeing of non age, and ignorant of the nature of an oath,
they could hardly submitt to her depositione in a matter of so great
weight and consequence, which the brethren finding to be as they hade
alledged, sustained the exceptionc as relevant. The rest of the witnesses
being solemnly sworne did depoune as followes vh. : —
Jenet Rhynie deponed that she never saw any scandallous conversa-
tione betwixt the saids Alexr. and Margret, and that she could prove
nothing against them. Hector Davidsoune nihil probat. Joan Grey
niJiil probat.
Elspet Thomsoune nihil probat. James Cuming nihil probat.
Wherupon the brethren declared that they had found no guiltienes
made out against them, did notwithstanding warn them to walk circum
spectly, and inhibited of any familiar converse together which may breed
scandall.
The elders of Kinethmont having been summoned (as the minister
reports) to compeir this day, as witnesses, anent the said Margret Sherar's
reviling of the minister, were called, and not compeiring, it is ordained
that they be summoned pro 2°.
The brethren commissionat to speak with Hugh Gordoune, Elspet Hay,
Margret Dunbar, and James Peirie reported that the said persounes hade
declared themselves to be of the Romish religion, and so to be no mem
bers of our Church ; wherupon it is judged convenient that the Moderator
and Mr. James Gordoune shall repair to them once befor the nixt meit-
ting of the Exercise, to try, if by reason and fair means they can be
reclaimed, befor any further processe go on against them.
Patrick Green for his haynous miscarriage at last meitting, is ordained
to appear in sackcloath, upon the publick place of repentance in the Church
1664] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 49
of Alfoord, befor the nixt meitting of the brethren, and ther acknowledge
his miscarriage and misdemeanour.
Compeired John Barclay confessing his theft on the Lord's day, in
tyme of divine service, and his fornicatione with Barbara Davidsoune.
It is ordained that he satisfie in sackcloath.
By unanimous consent of the brethren, it is ordained that the meittings
of the Exercise bee kept punctually bee two houres, and whosoever shall
transgresse the said ordinance shall pay a shilling.
By reference from the Sessionc of Kegge, it is represented to the meit
ting of the brethren, that Wm. Clerihew was summoned to this day, to
appear for a rapt, alledged to be committed by him upon Isobell Ander-
soune, and for profanatione of the Lord's day, by violence used against
the said Isobell after sermon, by throwing her over his boat into the
water of Doune, wherby her life was endangered, and for his insolent
carnage and rcproachfull speeches to the minister in the Sessione, by
calling him severall tymes a lyar ; as lykwise William Wight in Cobble-
seat, Janet Gibbone, and Catherine Milne ther, Patrick Sowdoun ther,
Margret Idlo ther, were summoned as witnesses. The said William and
forsaid witnesses being all called, none compeiring, it is ordained they
summoned pro 2°.
Alfoord September 21, 1664.
Mr. William Garioch exercised Rom. 14, 11. His doctrine is
approven.
It is reported that William Andersoune was absolved Sepr. 1 1. . .
that Marjorie Reid is continued ut supra.
It is reported anent Beatrix Douglas, that the Sessione of Kegge is
proceeding against her, upon some strong presumptiones lately found out.
Janet Forbes having been sumoned is called, and not compeiring, the
processe is ordained to be extracted and transmitted to the Bishop that
the sentence of excommunicatione may be passed against her.
The above mentioned pro fanners of the Lord's day by leading of cornes
in the parish of Kinethmont, having been sumoned, are called, and not
compeiring, it is ordained that they be sumoned pro 2°.
The minister of Lochell reported that Wm. Dunbar was fugitive from
his parish to the parish of Cushny.
G
RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1664
The minister of Cushny is ordained not to suffer him to reside there,
till he report from Lochcll a tcstimonie of his satisfactione there.
{discipline}
It is reported that Market Sherar and the elders of Kincthmont
could not compeir, in regard of the present heat of ther busiencs about the
harvest. It is ordained they be sumonccl to the nixt meitting.
The moderator and Mr. James Gordoune reported that they hade
been at Kirkhill and Mostounnc, and that they hade spoken to the papists
ther, and having reasoned with them found them altogether obstinat, and
that they hade declared that wee needed not trouble ourselves any more
with them, for they wold not alter ther religion. Wherupon it is ordained
that the processe go on against the said papists, to witt Hugh Gordoune,
Elspet Gray, Margret Dunbar, and James Peirie.
t is reported that Mr. John Gordoune is now removed from the parish
of Kegge, and is dwelling within the parish of Old Aberdene. Wherefore
the brethren judged it fit to have it recomended to the Bishop, that
processe might go on against him by the meitting of the Exercise of
Aberdene, within whose jurisdictione hee now resides.
{discipline}
The said day, the several 1 brethren were severally removed for the
privie censure, and were approved as to the discharge of their personall
and functionall duties.
The moderator and Clerk, with Mr. James Gordoune, and Mr. Robert
Irving, are appointed to meit at Towy, upon the third day of October for
extending the acts, and filling up the register of Meitting of the Exercise.
Old Abd. 21 Oct. 1664.
This Presbetrie Book of Alfurd produced, revised, and approver! by
the Bishop and Synod.
Mr. Al. Forbes, Clerk to the Assemblie of Abd.
At Old Abdein Octr. 20, 1664.
The brethren of the Exercise being mett, did appoint their nixt meit
ting to be at Alfoord November Sexth, and Mr. John Mair is appointed
to exercise and adde on the ordinarie matter.
1664] OF THE EXERCISE OE ALEORD. 51
The Dioccsianc Assemblie off Abd. was holden within the Collcdge
Kirk of Old Abd. by the Right Reverend father in God, Patrick, by the
mercie of God, Lord Bishope of Abd. And begune upon the 18 day off
October 1664.
The said day, after sermone hade be the Lord Bishope in the old
Church of St. Machar, and in calling of the name of God in presence of
the Synod, the roll of the whole ministers names within the diocie was
called, and the absentis nottcd viz. : Mr. Ludovick Dimlope, Mr. Robert
Forbes, Mr. William Davidsoune, Mr. Thomas Forbes, Mr. Walter
Richie, Mr. William Chalmer at Innerboyndie, Mr. John Watsoune
(excused), Mr. John Robertsoune, Mr. Gilbert Clerk, Mr. John Chalmer,
Mr. David Lindsay, elder, Mr. James Fraser, Mr. Andrew Boicl, Mr.
Alexr. Straquhan, Mr. James Douglas, Mr. Alexr. Leask, Mr. Alexr.
Gareoch (but in his absence, Mr. Andrew his soune, being his helper
represented him), Mr. William Chalmer at Skeen, and Mr. John Mercer
at Kynnellar.
Bretherine appointed for the privie conference arc as followis viz. : —
Exercise of Kincardyn, Mr. George Burnett, parsoune of Kincardyn.
Mr. Robert Reid of Banchorie.
Aberdeine, Mr. William Douglasse, Professor of Divinitie.
Mr. Alexander Middeltoune, Principall of the
King's Colledge.
Alfoord, Mr. Adam Barclay, Mr. George Gardyne, Mr.
James Gordoune.
Fordyce, Mr. William Scrogie, Mr. William Steinsone.
Tureffe, Mr. William Jaffray, elder.
Mr. William Jaffray, younger.
Mr. William Gray.
Deir, Mr. Andrew Skeen.
Mr. Arthure Ross.
Mr. James More.
Ellon, Mr. William Seattone.
Mr. Gilbert Andersoune.
Gareoche, Mr. Alexander Ross.
Mr. William Gordoune.
52 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1664
Sess 2° the said day post mercdicm.
The said day, in presence of the Bishopc, and all the brethren of the
Asscmblie of Abd. convened for the tyme, Mr. George Milne, minister at
Kemnay, did dcmitt, and lay cloune his place and charge of being Clerk
to the said Asscmblie. Lykas then the Lord Bishope, with consent of
the haill brethren, did approve the said Mr George his fidelitie and
honest behaviour as clerk forsaid, ever since his entrie, which will be
the space of fourteen yeres by goune or therby, none opponand in the
contrarie.
The Lord Bishope, with consent of the haill brethren of the said
Diocie, did elect and admitt Mr. Alexander Forbes, wrcater in Abd.,
clerk to the said Diocesian Assemblie, and he being pressed did accept
the said charge, and gave his oath de fideli administratione as use is.
The said Mr. George delivered to the present Clerk the Actes of the
two last Assemblies of the diocie in loose and in bound papers, the one
yeres begune be David Bishope of Abd. upon the 21 of October 1662, and
the other thense be Alexr. Bishope of Abd. for the tyme upon the 27
of October 1663, together with two old Register Books of preceiding
assemblies.
Mr. James Strachaune and Mr. Alexr. Swane appoynted visitors for
the Exercise book of Abd.
Item, Mr. John Seatoune and Mr. John Strachan, visitors for the
Exercise book of Kincardynne.
Item, Mr. Andrew Strachan and Mr. George Meldrume visitors for
the Exercise book of Alfoord.
Item, Mr. Thomas Robertsoune, and Mr. Robert Browne visitors for
the Exercise book of Fordyce.
Item, Mr. Wm. Duncaune and Mr. George Watsoune visitors for the
Exercise book of Ellonne.
Item, Mr. George Meldrume yor. and Mr. David Lyell for the
Exercise Book of Garrioch.
Item, Mr. Wm. Douglasse and Mr. George Inncs visitors for the
Exercise book of Turrcffe.
The book of Deir wanting and not produced.
It is ordered that the fifth of November be yerely observed as a day
of sollemnc thanksgiving for that great and merciefull deliverance of King
James the first, of blessed memoric, and his royall famclie conforme to
OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 53
the former Actes made theranent, and in particular the f Act of the
Assemblie holden in Oct. 1662, and the 24 Act holden in Oct. 1663.
Sess. 3, 19 Octr. 1664, ante merediem, Wedinsday.
The former Acts are renewed, maid against papists, quakers, sectaries,
recusants, and dishaunters of ordinances, especiallie the loth and i6th
Acts of the Assemblie holden in October 1662, and I3th, Hth, and I5th
Acts of the Assemblie holden in October 1663, and ordered the t wen tie
shillingis for evrie dayes absence be duelie recorded in the Sessione books
of evrie parochin, and ane register keepit for that effect, to be uplifted
from the recusantis, and those who dishaunt ordinances on the Lord's day
toties quoties, conforme to the Actis and ordinances of the estate and
Commissione for government maid theranent, and that intimatione
therof be maid at evrie paroche Churche.
The former act is renewed anent Beatrix Douglass, being the 17 Act
of Assemblie holden in Octr. 1663, bearing that the scandall of her
supposed adulterie with William Andersoune be tryed by the Kirk-
Sessione of Kegge, and Exercise of Alfoord, and evident ground being
found for the scandall, that the censure of the Churche be executte against
her.
The ordinance of the late Bishope, with consent of the Assemblie
holden in anno 1663, anent pryces to be taken by Bishope's Clerk, is rati
fied and renewed bearing that the pryces to be taken by him for edict and
collatione shall be fyve shillings sterline, certificat for ordinationc fyve
shillings st, licences half ane croune, for edicts and preceptis two shillings
st, with this additione that if the clerk exced this rule the Lord Bishope
to be acquainted therwith.
The 23'' Act of Assemblie holden Octr. 1663 is renewed, anent freeing
of ministers glebis and manses, bearing that the present incumbentis in
the severall churches within this Diocie shal persue for cxccutione of the
Act of parliament relating to the freeing of their manses and selling of
their gleebis and grasse befor Oct. 1664. Leikas the incumbents at all
unprovyded churches shal use all ordere of law for provyding their
Churches with augmentatione of stipends, and that intrants shal use
the same within a yere after their entric, with this provisione, that
diligence be done, ackording to the forsaid Act, befor Octr. 1665, and
that ther be ane accompt given at the nixt Diocesian Assemblie of any
54 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1664
diligence that can be done therannent befor that tyme, and that evrie
minister doe diligence, ackording to law, for accommodating thcmselfs
in foggagc, fewall, faill, and divott, in such order as the Lord Bishope
and Synod shal approve, as also that they who shal be undyligent in
doing diligence therin shal be censured with suspensionc.
The 29th Act of the said last Assemblie, holclen in Octr. 1663, is
renewed, bearing that parsouncs and titulars of teyndis shal, with all con
venient diligence, persue for possessione of the teyndis legallie belonging
to their respective Churches that ar personages within this Diocie.
Sess. 4°. eodem die post meredicm.
The Lord Bishope, with consent of the haill brethren of the Assemblie,
have seriouslie recommendit to the haill Exercises within this Diocie, and
evric severall pariochin and minister within the samen, that ther be ane
collectione from evrie pariochin and Kirk Sessiones, for supplie of two
young Pollonian Students who leive in Abd., and have much neid of
charitable help, and left their own countrie, being troubled for their pro-
fessione of the true Protestant religione, and evrie minister is desyred to
add their awan charitic to the collectione of the pariochin, and the collec
tione so raised to be sent to the severall moderators, and frae them to Mr.
John Menzeis Professor of Divinitie, betwixt this and the first of Januar
nixt.
It is thought expedient that the proces depending against Mr. William
Hires be referrit to a visitatione of the Kirk of Lonmey, and wher the
Lord Bishope is to be present (if not neccsarlie withdrawen) and his
Lordship both to appoynt the tyme, and the visitors of the said Kirk.
It is ordered that no testificats be given to any for creaving supporte
throw the country, further than ane minister within his own pariochin,
evrie Exercise within their own precinct, and the Assemblie within the
Diocie only, and that no such licences be granted for longer space but for
ane yeer allenderlie after subscryving therof.
Sess. 5°. 20 Octr. 1664 ante merediem — Thursday.
It is thought fitt that the mater of the perambulatione betwixt the
pariochines of Mortlick and Cabrache be represented by the Lord Bishope
to the Commissione for the planting of Kirks, wherby the best remedie
according to law be provyded.
1664] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 55
The iQth Act of the last Assemblie holdcn in Octr. 1663, anent observ
ing the Lord's day, is renewed, bearing it to be ordered that the Lord's
day be exactlie kceped, and that all attend the reading and hearing the
word befor sermone, and that none remove from the Churche befor pro
nouncing of the blessing, and that visitors for evrie pairt of the pariochine
be appoynted by the ministers for visiting taverns and ailhouses, and that
ther be no excessive drinking, nor people continew tipling in thes places,
but that with all dilligence evrie one resorte to ther owin houses for going
about ther familie cleuties suitable to the holines of the day, and that ther
be no barganing, feeing of servants, or other secular exercises on that clay.
As leikwayes the 26th Act of the said Assemblie is renewed, bearing that
notice be taken of such as travell on the Lord's day, and that the ministers
in whose pariochin they leive be acquainted therwith, and that the delin
quents be censured according to the qualitie of ther offence.
The I/1 Act of the said last Assemblie holden in Octob. 1663, anent
famelie exercise, is renewed ; bearing that evrie minister go exactlie about
famelie exercise in useing morning and evening prayers, and reading
some portiounes of holly scripture, and that they stirre up and exhort the
people to goe about such dueties, and that evrie Lord's day they catecheis
ther famelies, and at the visitatione of the famelies within ther pariochins
they shall punctuallie and exactly inquyre whither or not famelie wor-
shipe hath been practised amongst them, and if it shall be found that in
some famelies thes dueties have not been practised they shall be exhorted
and desyred therto.
The 17' Act of the said last Assemblie, holdin in Octob. 1663, against
guysers and unkenit exerceses at Yoole is renewed, and that the trans
gressors shall be censured according to the qualitie of ther offences.
Ther being presented to the Lord Bishope and Assemblie be captaun
John Dunbarr, ane of the ballycs of Peterhead, ane supplicatione, craving
warrand to the severall Exercises and pariochins within the diocie, for help
and contributione towards the repairing of the herbore and bulwark of
Peterhead, relating to ane Act of parliament and former actis of the
assemblie granted to that effect. The Lord Bishope, with consent of the
haill brethren of the said Assemblie, hes recornended ane contributione to
be raised furth of evrie Exercise and pariochin within this diocie wher no
contributione hes been alredie for that purpose, and that evrie minister
deliver to ther respective moderators such as is collected within ther
6 RECORDS OF TIIF. MEKTING 14
pariochins, and that each moderator send the same to Doctor Andrew
Moore in Abd., or any other whom the ]5alys of Pcterhcad shal appoynt,
betwixt and the first of Fcbry nixt, 1665.
Thomas Herd, cxcomunicat for slauchter, did appear bcfor the Syno
in saek-eloath to evidence his repentance for the said crymc (
referred by the brethren of l-'ordyce) and it being represented to the I or
i^pe and Assemblie be the moderator of that Exerc.sc Mr. Andrew
Hendo'soune minister at Diskfoord, and some other brctnron that I
hadde oftcntymes formerly given great signes of repentance both to the
minister and people of the pariochin where he leivs, and befo, e the send
Exercise also. The said Mr. Andrew Ilcndrysounc ,s ordained 1
him from the proces of cxcomunicationc.
The Exercise books of Abd. and Fordyce ar visited and approve,!.
Sess. 6th eodem die post meridiem.
The Ballys of Abd. did appear in the Assemblie desyring to be pro-
vyded with ministers, and that Mr. William Scrogie, minister at I
mMit be one, and the matter was referred to the first of Januar. mxt, that
betwixt and that day, with the first convenience, they might resolve mth
the said Mr. William Scrogie theranent.
Is ordained that when any womane being with chyld or bearing
™ chyld, cannot condiscend upon ane certain father therto, she shal
be censured as ane adulterer, both in habite and dyets of appearance
' n is ordained that the books of evrie Exercise be sent to the Lord
Bishope twentie dayes before evrie Synod, to be revised by h,m for the
more quick dispatch at the ensuemg Synod.
It being represented by Mr. Wm. Jaffray, yo,, that one Isobc JacV
was relapse in fornicatione, and ane excomnnicat pap.st and st.ll from
he be'nning being under the cours of repentance and hed one ch.ld
pttcd with a paptst, it is thought most meit that, ,f she be found ane
S of repentance, by continuing in her uncleanness wh.lst she .s pro-
fosing repentance, that ft may be represented to the Bishope, to the effect
she may be proccst with excomumcatione.
U is'orda'ined that all persones who consults with or ^question a
Agnes Pirie, within the pariochin of (««»*) and Exerce.s of Turef
OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 57
be censured and punished, as consulters with witches and inchanters, and
the leik course to be used against those who consult with any others in
that kynd.
It is recomcnded be the Lord Bishope and haill Asscmblic to the
haill Exercises and pariochincs within this diocie, that ane charitable
contributione be collected for suppleing Agnes Chalmcr, relict of the
deceased Mr. Walter Kempscid, sometym minister at Auchterless.
It is recomended by the Lord Bishope and Assemblic to the brethren
and Exercise of Tureff, that they be carefull to supplie the Kirk of Mon-
quhitor evrie Lord's day until the samen be provycled of ane minister.
The Exercise Books of Kincardyne and Tureff are visited and
approvin.
Sess. 7°. 21 Octob. 1664, ante meridiem. Fredday.
It is ordained that the bursers studentis in divinitie give ane accompt
to the moderators of the severall Exercises within this diocie off the pro
fessors dictats, according to ther attendance, upon productiounc of
which, they ar to resave payment of ther second pairt of ther proportioncs
from the ministers, and no other wayes.
It is ordained that evrie minister within this diocie keep ane roll and
list in ther Sessione books of the names of evrie persoune that dies within
ther severall pariochins, to be given up to the procurator fiscal, or any in
his name, as the samen shall be desyred.
Anent the reference from the Exercise of Tureff to the Lord Bishop
and Synod of Abd., concerning Wm. Crichtoune and Margret Gardyn
his spouse, pariochiners of Auchterless, ther grosse miscariage in the Kirk
of the said pariochin, on the Lord's day, imediately after close of the
worshipe (the minister being in the pulpit) by blaspheaming, cursing, and
swearing, also upbraiding and threatning the minister (the particulars
wherof ar at length sett doune in the Exercise books of Tureffe). After
consideratione therof, it was thought expedient by the Lord Bishope and
Synod, that his Lordshipe should seriously recomencl the samen to the
comissione for government, that course may be taken for the puneshing
of delinquents, to the terrore of others comitting such offences.
Sess. 8th codem die post meridiem.
It is condiscendit that if Mr. Alexr. Arburthnot shal give satisfactione
II
58 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1664
to Mr. Alcxr. Gardyn, minister at Forg, the Excrcis book of Turcff shall
be filled up without making mcntione of any proces moved by the said
Mr. Alexander against him.
Anent the perambulationc betwixt the pariochins of Strathdone and
Glenmuick, it is the mynd of the Lord Bishope and Assemblic that the
mater be referrit and represented to the comissioners for plantatione of
Kirks, and that the former Act made anent the said perambulatione be
renewed.
The Lord Bishope having written severall letters to the scverall
cises, requeuing ane accompt of the dishaunters from ordinances, wher
schools ar, and \vher not, what Kirks are vacant within their several pre
cincts, and who have intromittecl with the vacand stipends, as also ane
accompt of ther several patrones, with the rate and true value of ther
several stipendis, and having this day presented and cause reid to the
Synod the late Act of parliament relating to the last particular in the said
letter, to witt, the rate and true value of ther several stipendis, in order to
the aditional help of Universities, together with ane letter direct be His
Majestic to the Bishopes in Scotland for that purpose. The several
Exercises not being in redines to give ane present answer to this last
particular did promise unto the Bishope upone his advertisment, to send
unto him the true value and rate of all ther stipendis respective, wherupon
the Lord Bishope did promeise that, in the manadgment of the money to
be exacted from the ministers out of ther stipendis, he should labore that
it might prove as litel burdensome to them as possible might be.
It is ordered that the executione of the last Act of Assemblie holden
in Octr. 1663, annent subscraiving the Act of Cannonical Obedience,
be referrcl to the severall Exercises, and that the respective moderators
reporte to the Lord Bishope what is done therannent, at or before the
nixt Assemblie.
It is ordained that no young man be admitted to tryallj
cises, untill they have studied divinity some yeers after they be graduatt,
unless extraordinar pregnancie in learning be seen in theme, which is first
to be reported to the Bishope.
It is ordained that such as have been licenced by Exercises to preach,
or othervvayes, in the Bishope's absence, shal repaire to the Lord Bishope
for ratificatione therof, and have their licences renewed.
It is ordained that no minister wreat to the Bishope in favors of
OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 59
any persounc to be maricd, without proclamatione of bands, unles it
be for necesr and knovven causes, towards personcs of good qualctie
and conversatione, and not under Church censure.
All moderators of Exercises are continued, to witt Mr. George
Burnett for Kincardyne, Mr. Alexr. Mideltoune, prinl. of King's Col-
ledg, for Abd., Mr. Alexr. Ross for the Garioch, Mr. Wm. Jaffray, yor.
for Tureffe, Mr. Wm. Scrogie, for Fordyce, Mr. Adam Barclay for
Alfoord, Mr. Wm. Seatton for Ellone.
It is recomended by the L. Bishopc and the brethren of the Synod,
that evrie minister who have not yet payt ther contributione promised to
the newe work in the King's Colledge of Old Abdn., pay in the same to
the respective moderators again the first day of Januar. nixt 1665, and
that the same be delivered to the principal of that Colledge, and that all
now in place that has entred since the granting of that contributione, shal
be desyred by the respective moderators to contribute for perfyting of the
said work.
It is ordained that evrie Lord's day the text wherupon the minister
preaches, and how often he preaches, and clyets of catechising, be insert
in the severall Sessione books of the parioch, and that the Sessione books
be in redines, upon tymous advertesment, to be presented to the Bishope
at the melting places of Exercises.
The bussines of discorde and outfall betwixt Wm. Forbes of New
and John Forbes of Edinglasse, with ther complices, and ther feighting
and wounding others on the Lord's day, being taken to consideratione, it
is thocht expedient that the same be represented be the L. Bishope to the
Commissione for government, that they may be censured and punished
as effeirs.
It is ordained that the handling of commone heads of controversie be
frequently performed by the brethren of the several Exercises, especiallie
wher Poprie is most preached.
It is ordered that John Gorclone of Pittendreich who removed from
the Exerceis of Alfoord, and now resides within the Exerceis of Abd., be
procest for Poprie be the said Exerceis of Abd. wher he now remains.
The Exerceis of Ellone is ordained to dischairg ther Clerk, by reasone
of many informalities in ther Exerceis book, and the approving therof
intimated to the nixt Asscmblie, that it may be seen how they shall
ammend theirafter.
Co RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1664
The Act annent John Forbes, Stationer, is renewed and ordained that
evrie minister within this diocie shal buy thes books annent the queries,
replyis, and duplyis of the doctors of Abdn., at syxtein sh: Scots the
piece, and that they who have resavcd any of the said books themselves
shal either pay therfor at the pryce above written, or otherwayes shal
send back thes books to himself betwixt this and the first of Feby
nixt 1665.
It is ordained that evrie moderator collect and gather from evrie
minister within ther precincts who ar absent from this present Assemblie,
thes dues which they shoulde pay to the Clerk and officer of the Assem
blie, and that the Clerk's dues be collected from evrie one that midles
with the stipends of such Kirks as are vaccand.
It is ordained that such brethren as are appoynted for visiting of the
Colledges shal vist the scrols and minuts of this present Assemblie with
the Clerk, in presence of the L. Bishope, wherby the acts and rcferrs are
formally made up therfrom.
At Alfoord Nov. 16, 1664.
Mr. John Mair exercised and added Rom. 14. 12, the doctrine being
censured and approven.
The nixt meitting is appointed to be at Alfoord Dec. 21, and Mr.
Robert Irving is appointed to exercise and acid on the ordinarie matter
of the Exercise.
Anent Marjorie Reid, it is reported by the minister of Kildrummie
that hee having found as much satisfactione as hee could expect from her,
hee had readmitted her long ago to the professione of repentance, and that,
in regard to her inabilitie and age, she could not come to the place of our
meitting, and therefor the Session of Kildrummie desired that orders
might be given for her absolutione without her appearance, being now
sufficiently satisfied with her humiliatione, which desire the brethren
thinking reasonable did ordain to absolve her.
No report anent the corne leaders in Kinnethmont, the minister being
absent.
The minister of Cushnie reported that Wm. Dunbar was fugitive from
1664] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORI). 6l
his parish. It is ordained that every one of the brethren tak speciall care
that hee get no residence amongst them, till hee return and satisfic the
discipline of Lochell.
[ij cases of discipline}
At Alfoord December 21, 1664.
No doctrin, the speaker Mr. Robert Irving being absent and excused
for a reasonable cause.
The nixt meitting is appointed to be Feby. 18, and it is appointed
the foresaicl Mr. Robt. Irving shall have the Exercise and Additione,
conforme to the former ordinance.
The above mentioned profaners of the Lord's day by corne leading
in the parish of Kinnethmont, being summoned and called, not compciring,
it is ordained that Mr. John Walker repair to the said kirk, and finding
them judicially convict, to give them their sentence according to their
guiltienes.
Compeered William Clerihew, who was convict by his own confessione
of the profanatione of the Lord's day by using violence against the person
of Isobel Anderson, by throwing her over the boat to her great danger,
and of insolent carriage before the Sessione, and revileing the minister,
but did deny ravyshing of the said Isobel, and referred the same with the
presumptiones thereof to the probatione of witnesses, whereof if these
shawe so much proven as that he once laid hands on her at the tyme of
the alledged rapt, hee enacts himself to tak the fact upon him. Wherupon
the witnesses being called, compeered Margaret Gordoune, Andrew
Patersone, Janet Giboune, Margret Idle, who being admitted by the
said William, and being solemnly sworne, nihil probanmt. The brethren
taking the matter to consideratione, and finding the said William (though
nigh not guiltie of the rapt) haynouslie guiltie in the matter confessed by
himself: wherefor they ordain him to undergo the pennance usuall for
adulterers, till that with his humiliatione the Sessione of Kegge is satisfied.
By reference from the Sessione of Tillinessel, Agnes Roy having been
summoned, not compeering for blasphemously saying, if the Lord were
on earth she would flyt with him if she were angrie, it is ordained that
she be summoned to the nixt meitting pro 2°.
62 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1665
The brethren absent from the former clyctt, professing ingenuously
that it was through a mistake of the day were excused.
[16 cases of discipline}
Alfoord Aprill 5, 1665.
By reason of the stormc all meitting of the brethren being from the
last dyett to this impeded, who having mett, and finding multitudes of
offences and their privie censure wold tak up the day, resolved there
should be no doctrin at this dyett.
The nixt meitting is appointed to be at Alfoord and the former
speakers are continued.
Mr. John Walker reported that hec had repaired to the Kirk of
Kinnethmont, and had held Scssione there, and finding the above
mentioned corne-leaders guiltie of the profanationc of the Lord's day,
had ordained them in face of the congregatione to give publick
satisfactione as Sabbath breakers, that the same might be reported to
this meitting, and it being reported that the said cornc leaders had
declined to give satisfactione in obedience to the sentence given by
Mr. John Walker, it is ordained that they be all summoned to the
nixt meitting to have the said sentence homologate by the brethren
of the Exercise.
By reference from the Sessione of Kildrummie compecrcd Michael
Dunbar, who being convict by his own confcssione of clrunkcnnes,
cursing, and atheisticall speaches, by saying that hec had bound the
devil, when the Lord's day befor hee had been at the Lord's table, it
is ordained that hce satisfie in sackcloath at the Kirk of Kildrummie
the next Lord's day, and upon his humble satisfactione to be absolved.
The sevcrall brethren of the Exercise being removed one by one for
their privie censure were approvcn, and these were exhorted to their
duties.
NOTE.— Here follow 3^ blank pages, viz: part of 41, and 42, 43, 44. Then pages 45,
46 are .wanting altogether. These pages 41 to 47 were, doubtless, intended for Minute of Synod
Meeting, held in April, 1665. What follows marked [ ] is from the Synod Record.
1 665] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 63
[The Dioccsian Synod of Aberdenc holden within the Kingis
Colledge Kirk of Old Abd., and begun upon the 18 day of Aprile
1665, by ane Right Reverend Father in God, Patrick by the mercic
of God Bishope of Aberdene.
Sess. prima ante merediem 18 Apr. 1665.
The quhilk day after sermon &c.
(Bretherine appoynted for the Privie Conference.
other Presbyteries.)
For Alfuird, Mr. Adame Barclay, Mr. Geo. Gardyne, and Mr. James
Gordone.
2. All moderators are continued as last Synod, safe only that Mr.
John Robsonc, minister at St. Fergus, is appoynted moderator for Deir
instead of Mr. Arthure Ros who is removed therfrae.
Eodem die post merediem Sess. 2°.
3. It is ordered that all dishaunters of ordinances be publicklie
admonished by their severall ministers thrie severall dayis out of their
pulpitis for conforming themselfis to the hearing of the Word and
observing their Churche ordinances ; with certificatione iff they failzie
they ar to be insisted against, conforme to the Actis of parliament, by
excommunicatione and other wayis.
19 Aprille ante merediem Sess. 3°
5. Anent papistis and quakeris the Act of the former Assemblie is
renewed, and all ministeris ordered and recommendit to doe all dilligence
for drawing them from their errors to the truth by conference and other
wayis.
7. It is ordered that the Exercise of Kincardyne requyre ane
testimoniall from James Farquharsone younger of Whythous, anent his
satisfactione to the Kirk for his fornicatione.
8. It is ordered that the Lord Bishope and haill Exercise of Alfurd,
with Mr. George Burnet, parsone of Kinkardyne, Mr. Williame Douglas
at Midmar, for Kincardyne, Mr. Alexander Ros and Mr. Alexander
Seaton for Gareoche, Mr. Johne Menzeis for Aberdene, Mr. Thomas
Thoiris for Fordyce, keep the Presbetrie of Alfurd the first Tuysday of
Junii nixt, and ther to indevor the aggriement betwixt New and
<54 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [l665
Edinglassie, and their adherents ; and that the Eric of Marr, the Maister
of Forbes, the Laird of Eicht, or any other fricndis relating 1
pairties, who have greatest influence upon them for setting their Pc;
and aggriemcnt, were clcsyrcd to that melting.
o (Anent Contribution to Pcterhead Harbour).
10. (Account to be given in by every minister as to contnl:
towards Bridge of Dye and King's College).
20 Apr. 1665 ante mcrcdiem Sess. 5°.
12 Ancnt John Forbes Stationer. It is recommended to the scvcrall
moderators and bretheren that these buikis concerning the demand*
replyis, and duplyis of the doctoris and ministeris of Abd. anent the lait
Covenant shall be satisfied for, or sent back to him, conforme
former actis maid therancnt
15 It is ordered that Mr. Nathaniell Martyne be persued before
Commissary of Aberdene for the Presbetrie bulk of Deir, and
Sessionc buik of Pcterhead, both concealed and withdrawn by him.]
At Alfoord, May i;th 1665.
Mr. Robert Irving hade the doctrin Rom. 14, 13- The doctrin being
censured was approven.
The nixt meitting having been appointed by the Synod (wheral
Bishop was to be present for some wcightie affairs) upon the seventh day
of Tuni and no doctrin to be that day because of the busieness in hand.
Anent the profancrs of the Lord's day in Kinnethmont by corne
leading it is reported that they were summoned to this meitting, wh<
bein- called, and none compeering, save James Milne who was convict
of no more guiltienes, but that his horses hade been yoked, am
therfor ordained that, in presence of the congregatione of Kinnethmont,
hee satisfie by acknowledging his offence in standing up befor th
pulpit Anent the rest (the sentence pronounced by Mr. John Walker
being ratified), it is ordained that the minister go on with the pu
admonitiones against them.
[77 cases of discipline]
1665] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 65
At Alfoord Junii 14 1665.
The brethren not having mett upon the day formerly appointed, by
reason of a publick fast observed the said day, by advertisement from
the Bishope, did meitt this clay, at which meitting his Lordship was
present.
A literall summounes lawfully execute and indorsed was given in by
Mr. Robert Irving minister of Strathdoune, against Wm. Forbes of New,
John Forbes of Ledmakay, Donald Cattenach in , and Robert
Andersoune in , charging them to appear befor the Bishop of
Aberdeen, and the brethren of the Exercise of Alfoord, to answer for
there profanatione of the Lord's day, by their feighting and sheding
one another's blood, at the Kirk of Strathdoune, imediately after
divine service, as likwise charging Alexr. Forbes of Culquharrie, John
Michie in the Ord, Alexr. Michie in the Lochannes, and Robert Michie
in Glencarvie, as witnesses in the said matter. The above mentioned
parties compeered, but the witnesses compeered not. Yet notwithstand
ing it was found by there own declaratione that they were guiltie of a
grosse and greivous scandall in the forsaid matter. Wherupon the
Bishop and brethren of the Exercise taking the matter to there consi-
deratione, did, upon grave and weightie grounds, think it convenient not
to define at this tyme which of the parties were either innocent or
guiltie in this matter, or who were mor who lesse guiltie, nor to
inflict any censure till further deliberatione, but thought most meitt
for eschewing future inconveniences, to draw the parties to ane
agreement, and to bind them with a bond for there future peaceable
and Christian behavior, which the said parties did condescend unto, and
did subscrib to that effect, which was delivered to the Lord Bishop of
Abdene., and so all further tryall and censure for the present was waved.
The nixt meitting is appointed to be at Alfoord July 5, and Mr.
James Gordoune is ordained to have the doctrin by way of controversie,
the subject whereof to be, The necessitie of the ministerial! calling.
At Alfoord July 5, 1665.
Many of the brethren being withdrawn to Edinburgh, and but a few
brethren being mett, the meitting is adjourned till the 19 of July.
66 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1665
Alfoord, July iQth.
Mr. James Gordoune hade the doctrin upon the matter above
mentioned, the doctrin censured and approven.
The minister of Kinnethmont reported James Milne hade satisfied
the former ordinance, but that as yet he hade done nothing against the
rest of the profaners of the Lord's clay by leading of cornes, wherupon he
is reprehended, and ordained to go on in the processe.
The minister of Cushnie reported that William Dunbar was now
removed from William Fyfe, and was now residing with his father in the
parish of Cushnie. It is ordained that the minister of Cushnie summone
the said William Dunbar to remove befor the nixt meittingof the Exercise.
The minister of Alfoord delated Alexander Forbes in Elrick for
dishaunting of ordinances, professing quakaristrie, and the resetting
persons of that sect in his house. It is ordained that Mr. James Gordone
enter in processe with the said Alexander, and that withall, a letter be
written by the moderator to the Bishop, now in Edr., to represent the
matter to the High Commissione.
It being enquired at the brethren, what they hade done in reference
to the collectione for the Pollonians, it is reported that many hade essayed
to go about the same, but that their people hade declared their unwilling-
nes, in respect they were oppressed with diverse burthens, and were
destitute of money.
[/^ cases of discipline]
Alfoord, August 9, 1665.
Mr. William Glasse exercised and added on Rom. 14, 14. The
doctrin being censured was approven.
The nixt meitting is appointed to be at Alfoord, August 31, at which
Mr. John Lesly, Student of Divinitie, desiring to enter on his tryalls, in
reference to the licentiating him to preach, is appointed to exercise and
adde upon the ordinarie matter of our Exercise.
Anent the corne leaders in Kinnethmont, the minister reported that
some of them hade satisfied, and were absolved, and the rest were
admonished pro i°. August 6th, viz. George Lesly, Alexander Matthea-
soune, James Wrightes, elder and younger, Alexander Andersoune,
1665] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 67
James Murison, John Couttis, James Couttis, but in regard that the
Sessione of Kinnethmont is much indebted to the bursers of Divinitie,
the minister is ordained to produce befor the meitting of the Exercise
the penalties both of the persons absolved, and also of the rest when they
should give satisfactione, wherby the said bursers may be satisfied.
Patrick Green com peered this day on the piller of repentance, and
satisfied the ordinance of the Presbytrie for his insolent behaviour. He
is summoned apud acta to compeer to the nixt meitting, as also it is
ordained that Margret Davidsoune be summoned to the same dyett,
that they may both joyntly receive their sentence for their scandalous
conversatione, whereby they hade given no small presumptiones of the
guilt of adulterie.
[77 cases of discipline}
Alfoord August 31, 1665.
Mr. John Lesly exercised and added on Rom. 14, 15. The doctrin
being censured was approven.
Anent the corne leaders in Kinnethmont, report came from the
minister that he hade publickly admonished James Wrightis elder and
younger, James Morgan, James and John Cowtessis pro 2°.
By reference from the Sessione of Kildrummie, compeered John
Lumsden, and being convict by his own confessione of breach of the
Sabbath, and contempt of the sacrament of the Lord's Supper, by
saying he cared not two pennies whether he got it or not, it is
ordained that he make publick professione for the same in sackcloath.
In regard to the several abuses committed at pennie brydalls, the
brethren think it convenient to referre it to the Diocesian Synod, to
judge whether or not the Innekeepers wher the said marriages are
keeped, and by whose occasione many of the said abuses are committed,
shall consigne pledges for their deportment, as well as the parties.1
(Absents, and excuses for absence given in — 2 considered relevant.)
\2i cases of discipline}
Alfoord September 20, 1665.
Mr. Georg Watsone exercised and added Rom. 14. 16, 17. The
doctrin being censured was approven.
19.
68 RECORDS OF THE MEETING
The nixt meitting is appointed to be at Auchindeor, Octr. 4, that the
brethren may know how the discipline is exercised ther, since the
minister of the place is not able to keep the meittings of the Exercise.
It is ordained that Mr. William Davidsoune shall preach, since it is his
time to exercise.
No report anent the profaners of the Lord's day by their leading of
cornes in the parish of Kinncthmont, the minister being absent.
[22 cases of discipline}
Auchindeor October 4, 1665.
Mr. William Davidsoune preached I Tim. 6. 10. The doctrin being
censured was approven.
The nixt meitting is appointed to be at Alfoord Nov. 15, and Mr.
John Lesly, student of Divinitie, appointed to handle the controversie
De presentia CJtristi in Euckaristia, and ordained to send his theses,
eight dayes befor, to the severall brethren of the Exercise.
No report anent the corne leaders, Mr. Cheyne being absent.
Compeered Mr. James Garden, student of Divinitie, son to Mr. Alexander
Garden, minister of Forg, and presented to the brethren his act of
admission, by the Presbytrie of Turreff, to the burse of Alfoord and
Turreff, which the brethren did homologat, and were exhorted by the
moderator to mak tymeouse payment of their severall proportions to him.
Compeered Robert Smith, in the parish of Auchindeor, desiring that,
wheras he hade lately putt up a new desk in the Church, he might have
libertie, and the approbatione of the brethren of the Exercise, that
whensoever Providence should call him out of that parish to any other
place of residence (he being but a moveable tennant) either to transport
his desk from that church to another, or to sell the same to any within
the parish who wold be pleased to buy it ; which desire the brethren
thought reasonable to grant to the said Robert, his airs, executors, or
assignayes, and therfor past the same upon act in his favor.
A greivance being given in by some of the brethren of the Exercise,
upon the unkindnes and undutifullnes of diverse of their parishioners,
that upon every misunderstanding and animositie against their ministers,
they did withdraw from them their assistance, and the assistance of all
1665] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 69
under their command, from such labors as is usuall for parishioners to
help their ministers with, such as laboring their glebes, and leading their
fevvell, thefor the brethren thought it convenient to refer the said regrat
to the Diocesian Synod, that they might have the advice and concur
rence of the Bishop and Synod, for taking course how the same in a most
feasable and legall way might be redressed, and that, considering that
the laws do provide no more grasse for ministers, but as much as will
serve two cows and a horse, wherby they cannot publickly performe
these labors themselves.
Mr. Adam Barclay, minister at Towy, did present a paper carrying
the division and partition of the Church of Towy approved by the
Bishop of Aberdeen, and desired the same to be put upon record,
according to the Bishop's appointment. The tenor wherof followes : —
At Towy, Febry 18, 1664.
By virtue of a commissione given by the Right Reverend Father in
God, Alexander Lord Bishop of Aberdein, for dividing of the Kirk of
Towy, and allocating and appointing to the severall heritors and their
tennants severall roomes therin for their accommodatione, as at more
length in the said commissione is contained, which is of date at Aber
dein, the second day of November, a thousand six hundred and sixtie
three years. Conveened Mr James Gordon, minister at Alfoord, Mr.
William Glasse, minister at Cushnie, Mr. William Duncaune, minister
at Kildrummy, with Mr. Adam Barclay, minister at the said Kirk of
Towy, all nominated in the said commissione, and having caused call
ane edict lawfully execute and endorsed, wherby all the heritors, life-
renters, wodsetters, tennants, tacksmen, and others, having, or pretending
having interest, were warned to appear the said day to hear and see the
forsaids commissioners pass to the forsaid division, conforme to the
tenour of their commissione theranent. Compeered in name of the
Earle Mar for his interest William Reid in Fichly, John Forbes of
Towy for himself, William Thomson in Culsh in name of James
Thomson, wodsetter of the Mains of Towy, Alexander Thomson,
portioner of the wodsett lands viz. : Sinnaboth and Chappell for
himselfe, and in name of the rest of the wodsetters of the lands
belonging heretably to the laird of Craigievar within the said parish,
70 RECORDS OK THE MEETING [1665
William Farqrson, wodsctter of the town of Towy for himselfc, and
William Kcr in Towy in name of my Lord Elphingstoun, by warrand
from his Chamberlane, who alledging no reasons which might hinder the
forsaid division to be gone about, the said Commissioners did proceede,
conforme to a stent roll given in by the minister of the said kirk,
containing the severall rents of the severall heritors and wodsetters,
conforme whcrunto they did allott and assigne to every one their
porportionall part for their accommodation in the said Church, in
manner after following viz. : to the Earle of Mar the whole East
gavell, from the fourth couple in the South side to the fourth couple
in the North side, for himselfe and his family ; to John Forbes of
Towy from the fourth couple in the South side to the East side of
the East door ; to William Farqrsoune of Mill of Towy from the
West side of the East doore four couples Westward ; to Alexander
Innes in Sinnahard from thence Westward to the pulpit, with issue
and entrie at the East end of his dask ; to James Thomsone of Towy
and the portioners of Sinnaboth, Westward from the pulpit to the
West side of the window nixt the pulpit, reserving issue and entrie
to the pulpit ; to the minister from the fourth couple in the North
side to the nynth couple, reserving likwise issue and entrie on the
West ; to my Lord Elphinstoune from thence Westward in the North
side of the Church to the thirteenth couple ; to the Laird of Glen-
kindy, the said Commissioners, with the consent of all interested, did
designe a roome from my Lord Elphinstoune's roome Westward to
the eighteenth couple, reserving issue and entrie both for himselfe and
my Lord Elphinstoune betwixt their desks ; to the Earle of Mar's
tennants, from the eighteenth couple on the North side Westward to
the thretty-seventh ; to my Lord Elphinstoune's tennants, from the
thretty-seventh couple on the North side Westward to the forty-second;
to the tennants of the whole Barronry of Towy, from the window nixt
to the pulpit on the west side therof Westward in the South side of the
Church to the South corner of the west gavell ; to the tennants of
Sinnahard's and Sinnaboth, from thence along the west gavell and
Westward on the North side to that couple where my Lord Elphin
stoune's tennants their roome doth end, reserving in the said gavell a
roome for the stooll of repentance. And the said Commissioners did
intimat to all interested in the saides roomes that they should fill the
1665] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 71
samen with seemly dasks betwixt and the feast of Lambes nixt, under
pain of forfeitting their roomes, and that any other within the parish
should have libertie to fill the samen with dasks for themselves by the
tyme prefixed. In witnesse wherof these presents written by Mr. Adam
Barclay are subscribed with the hand of the saids Commissioners, before
witnesses Mr. James Ross, minister at Strathdiveron, and Mr. John
Strachan, sometyme minister at Midmarre.
Sic Subscribtur
Mr. J. Strachaune, witnes. Mr. James Gordoune,
J. Ross, witnes. Mr. W. Duncaune,
A. Barclay.
Mr. William Glasse.
The above written divisione of the Kirk of Towie being seen and
allowed by us we appoint the same to be registrate in the records of
the brethren of the Exercise of Alford.
Sic subscribitur
Patr. Bp. of Aberdeen.
The severall brethren were removed for privie censure, and were
approven for their carriage in their calling and conversatione.
It was appointed that Mr. William Glasse, and Mr. David Milne
should meet at Towy with the moderator and Clerk, for extending
regratts, and filling up the records of the Exercise.
Alex. Duncaune, Clerk to the meitting of the Exercise.
The Exercise Book of Alfurd is approven by the Lord Bishope and
Assemblie.
Mr. Alex. Forbes, Clerk to the Synod of Abd.
Referrs of the Provincial! Synod of Abd. holden within the King's
Colledg in Old Aberdeen, by ane Right Reverend Father in God,
Patrick, by the mercie of God, Bishop of Aberdeen, and begune 17 of
October 1665.
Sessio i°. ante merediem.
After sermon and prayer, the roll of the whole ministers' names was
called, the absents notted, the privie conference, and visitors of the
severall Kirks and Exercises appointed.
72 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1665
Sessio 2°. post merediem.
Ordered that all the books which as yet are not delivered to be
visited by the Lord Bishop be given in befor the rising of the Synods,
and when visited they are to be delivered to the Clerk within fyftein
dayes, who therafter is to send the same to the Moderators, as he is
desired.
Ordered that all ministers who shall be absent from future
Assemblies, whether by reason of sicknes and infirmitie, or any other
lawfull occasion, shall send in their excuse and reason of their absence
in writ to the Lord Bishop, if they be able to writ, and if not able
that the truth of their excuse be presented by two or three brethren ;
the rest of the afternoon spent about other affairs.
Sessio 3°. Octob. 18. post merediem.
Anent the dask of Mortlech, the tryall of the truth therof is referred
to the Exercise of Fordyce, and Mr. William Jaffray, younger, and Mr.
William Gray, assessors to them, and to report to the next Synod.
Anent the complaint given in by the minister of Inverurie, against
George Fergusson, it is ordered that the said George evidence his
repentance in sackcloath before the Presbiterie of Garioch, and ther
after one day at his own parish kirk, and for the pecuniall mulct, the
Lord Bishop therafter is to determine therin.
Sessio 4°. eodem die post merediem.
Ordered that all ministers within this Diocess bring in their
respective proportions for help of Universities and Colledges, against
Mertimes next, and who fails therein are to expect no courtesie nor
defalcation, but the rigour of law to be used against them therfor.
Ordered that all ministers within Diocess give ane account by their
respective moderators, and that the moderators accordinglie give ane
account to Sir Robert Douglas of Tilliquhowie, or ane whom he shall
appoynt, of all their collections, for help of the bridge of Dye, with
ane account to whom they delivered the same, and receipts granted
therupon, wher through it may be known what is collected for that
busines, and to whom the same is delivered.
Ordered that evrie minister give in to their severall moderators ane
account and nott (as manie as have not given in the same alreadie) of
1665] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD.
73
their severall collections for supplie of Agnes Chalmer, relict of Mr.
Walter Hempsteid, minister sometyme at Auchterless, and that the
moderators give ane account therof to Mr. John Dalgarnie, in Old
Abd., and that all who have not as yet given in their collections for
the use of the said Agnes give in the same to Mr. John, who is
im powered to receive the same.
Sessio 5°. Octob. 19. Ante merediem.
Mr. John Robertson moderator of the Exercise of Deer, did demitt
his charge as moderator ther, by reason of his personall infirmitie, and
Mr. William Setone did demitt his office of moderator in Ellon, on the
same account, and reason of his age, both which were approven by the
Assemblie as faithfull in their charge, and Mr. Alexander Gairden
appoynted to be moderator at Deer, and Mr. George Melvil at Ellon.
{discipline}
Anent the bursers of Divinitie, ordained that they receive from the
respective Exercises and ministers within the Dioccss, payment of the
one half of their allowances due to them in hand payment befor
Mertimes next, and the other half at the time they shall produce and
give ane account to the respective moderators of their respective Pro
fessors of Divinitie ther dictats.
Sessio 6°. post merediem.
Anent the tumult of the Kirk of Turreff in removeing Alexander
Stewart from his seat, the tryall therof is referred to the Exercise of
Turreff, and it is appoynted to them as assessors Mr. William Scrogie,
Mr. Alexander Seton, and Mr. William Stevenson, and all execution
of the former act of the Presbiterie against Alexander Stewart to
cease untill report be made unto the Synod by the Presbiterie and
assessors.
Anent the delatione given in by the minister of Clunie against ane
James Smith, for useing inchantment, by casting of the knotts at
marriages for unlawfull ends, it is ordered that he evidence his
repentance in sackcloath, and the tyme, maner, and anie further
punishment to be referred to the Exercise of Kinkarden.
K
74 RECORDS OF TITF, MKFTINT, [1665
Sessio 7°. Octob. 20 ante merediem.
Ordered that everie particular minister give in their Session bookis
to the respective moderators, as they shall be required to be visited, and
the Exercise to report what they find worthy of reprehension therin.
For helping of the Schoole of Hanchorie, ordered that evcrie minister
within the Diocess give in such help for that use, as it shall please God
to move their hearts for that charitable work, and that the Schoolmaster
give ane account therof at the next Synod what everie man hath given,
and who have not given.
Sessio 8°. eodem die post merediem.
Ane committee is appoynted to convene at the King's Colledge, in
Old Aberdeen, upon the third Tuesday of November, being the 21 of
the same moneth, for such cffaires as shall then occurre, consisting of
the persones following viz. : the eight moderators of the severall
Exercises, with Mr. George Meldrum at Aberdeen, for the Exercise
therof, Mr. Robert Reid for Kinkarden, Mr. James Gordoune for
Alfurd, Mr. James Straquhan for Garioch, Mr. William Stevensone
for Fordyce, Mr. \Villiam Gray for Turrcff, Mr. Alexander Swane for
Deer, and Mr. John Seaton for Ellon, at which tyme the estate of
the Kirk of Mamvhiter is to be taken to consideration, and all
moderators are to be continued except the said Mr. John Robertsone,
and Mr. William Seton, conforme to the former act.
Ordered that at the first next meeting of evcrie Exercise, ane account
be given by each moderator who have collected for help of the Pollonian
Students, and what everie one have given, and they who are found
deficient to be censured after tryall.
Ordered that all licenses granted to seek help and charitie through
parish Kirks and Presbiteries, throughout the Diocess, conforme to the
former act granted to them theranent, shall as yet continue for their
seeking from all those who have as yet not collected for them, albeit
the yeer be outrunne after granting the former licenses.
Ordered that Mr. John Fcrres shall supplie the Kirks of Crathie and
Bracmarre by preaching and administration of other ordinances, untill
such tyme as the said kirks be provyded with ane minister, and that,
1665] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORI). 75
in the mean tyme, the Exercise of Kinkardcn shall supplie the said
Mr. John Ferres his kirk, so long as himself shall be vvithdrawen thcr-
from through that occasion.
Ordered that all ministers who have not given satisfaction to John
Forbes printer for those books of the queries, replies, and duplies of
the Doctors of Aberdeen, con forme to former acts made theranent,
shall pay in the samin to the respective moderators, at the first
meeting of their Exercises, and the moderators are ordered to take
ane nott of the deficients, and represent the same to the Lord Bishop,
within sex weeks after the daitt herof, that they may be censured,
and course taken for that effect, for satisfaction of the said Mr. John
Forbes, who hath lyen out these two ycers bygone, and above, of
satisfaction for printing of those books at ane great chairge.
Ordered that all absent ministers, as well excused as not excused,
and others present who have not payed in their dues to the Clerk of
the Synod and janitor, either for this or preceiding Synods, shall pay
in the samin to their own respective moderators befor the first
day of Januarie next, and that anie excuse made to the Asscmblie
(albeit ever so reasonable) shall not be admitted till those dues be
satisfied, and in the mean tyme, the deficients to be censurable after
publication of their names.
At Alfurd December 6, 1665.
The said day, being the first meeting of the brethren after the Synod
(former meeting having been obstructed through the stormines of the
weather) Mr. John Leslie handled the controversie DC prcsentia CJiristi
in Eucharistia, when he was approven by the brethren, and it is ordained
that he sustean dispute thcrupon at Alfurd Januarie 3a.
No report anent the come leaders of Kinncthmont, Mr. Robert
Cheyne the minister being absent.
By reference from the Scssionc of Forbes, William Lange, is dclaited
to have fallen in a scandalous profanation of the Lord's day, by falling
out in reproachfull speeches against the minister (after hec hade been
absolved from the publick profession of repentance for a former profana
tion of the Lord's day) and exclameing against his former sentence as
76 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1666
too rigorous, and haveing been summoned to appear against this dyet,
being called, and not compeiring, it is ordained that hee be summoned
pro 2°. (Had to satisfy in sackcloth.)
(Vacancie in Keig — supply granted.)
Mr. William Duncan desireing to demitt his office of Clerkship to the
Exercise, it is received of from his hand, and Mr. John Maire is invested
with the office according to the usuall manner.
[.25 cases of discipline]
At Alfurd Januarie 3, 1666.
Ther being few of the brethren who mett, in regaird of the
unseasonablenes of the weather, the meeting was adjourned to
Januarie 10, 1666.
At Alfurd Januarie 10, 1666.
Several brethren being absent, to witt Mr. Adam Barclay &c. . . .
the brethren present did continue Mr. John Leslie his disputatione to
next meeting, appointed to be Feb. 7, at which dyet it is ordained that
he sustean also his questionarie tryall.
The minister of Kinnethmont reported that the elders of his Sessione
refused to give in the penalties of the persons convicted of profanation
of the Lord's day by corne leading, conforme to the ordinance of the
brethren of the date August 9, 1665 ; wherupon the minister is ordained
to summond the said ciders to the next meeting, to answer for their
disobedience, in counteracting to the ordinance of the brethren, till
which tyme the brethren forbeare to receive anie more report anent
the corne leaders.
It being found that Mr. John Walker hade supplied the vacancie at
Keig for one Lord's day since last meeting, it is ordained that Mr.
John Maire supplie it betwixt and the next meeting.
[24 cases of discipline}
At Alfurd Febr. 7, 1666.
Mr. Adam Barclay excused himself for his former day's absence.
(Others also excused.)
1 666] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 77
No report anent the elders of Kinnethmont, the minister being
absent.
Mr. Walter Ritchie ordained to supplie Keig once.
The referrs of the Diocesian Synod were publicklie read and
recommended to the bretheren.
It is ordeaned ther shall henceforth no excuse for absence be allowed
from anie of the brethren, unlcs, in their absence, ther be some sent from
them, with ane account of their depending processes.
Mr. John Leslie sustained his disputes and question arie tryall, and is
approvcn, and it is ordained that he have a popular sermon upon John 3,
19, at next meeting, which is appoynted to be Febr. 28.
\22 cases of discipline^
At Alfurd Febr. 28, 1666.
Mr. John Leslie preached his popular sermon on John 3, 19, and is
approven, and it is appoynted that the next day he give a tryall of the
Languages, which is appoynted to be March 21, and Mr. Walter Ritchie
is appoynted to exercise on the ordinarie matter of the Exercise.
(Absents named. No report anent the elders of Kinnethmont.
Session Book of Towie to be visited — Supply for Keig).
(18 cases of discipline, one offender " being convict of profanation of
the Sabbath by reproachfull expressions against the minister, and
publick exclamation against the minister and Session .... it is
ordained that he satisfie in sackcloath").
March 21, 1666.
Mr. Walter Ritchie exercised on Rom. 4, 19, and his doctrin was
approven.
It is appoynted that ther be no more meetings befor the tyme of
the Diocesian Synod, in regaird that diverse are about the celebration
of the Lord's Supper, and the next meeting is appoynted to be May
24, and Mr. John Walker is ordained to exercise on the ordinarie
matter of the Exercise.
Mr. Robert Chein and Mr. Robert Dunbar wer absent through
o
sicknes, Mr. William Glass absent at his brother's buriall, Mr. William
Duncan as yet in the South, Mr. James Ross restrained by the Katherin.
•y$ RECORDS OE THE MEETING [1666
No report concerning the elders of Kinnethmont, the minister being
absent.
(Session Book of Towie approven. Kcig vacancy supplied.)
By reference from the Session of Alfurcl compeired John Jamissone,
and being convict of three severall acts of drunknes, and of slandering
of ane ekler with lyeing and partialitie, it is ordered that he satisfie
in sackcloath.
Mr. John Leslie was tried in the Languages, and gave
specimens of his knowledge, but was ignorant of the Hebrew,
bretheren haveing revised the whole procedor of the whole tryalls of
Mr. John Leslie, 'Student of Divinitie, and haveing seriouslie considered
the same, and haveing received considerable satisfaction on the severall
poynts have thought convenient to recommend him to my Lord
Bishop' as being a youth of good and Christian conversation and sound
principles, and who may, by process of tyme be a good instrument for
edification of soulcs, that his Lordship may be pleased to grant him an
licence for publick preaching of the gospell.
The bretheren were severally removed for the undergoing of the
privic censure, and were approven by their fellow bretheren.
[16 cases of discipline}
Referrs of the Diocesian Assemblie holdin at King's Colledge Old
Aberdeen, by ane Right Reverend Father in God, Patrick, by the
mercie of God, Bishop of Aberdeen, and begune the i May 1666.
Sessio i". ante merediem.
After sermon by the Lord Bishop, the roll of the ministers' names
being called, the absents netted, the visitors for the severall
books were appoynted &c.
Sessio 2°. eodem die, post merediem.
The afternoon was spent in rcviscing and approveing the severall
Exercise books of disciplin, and the book of Aberdeen Lxcrcis
approven, Kinkairden book, Garioch book, Kllon book, and
book approven, and the next meeting appoyntc
morning at 9 aclock.
1 666] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 79
Sessio 3°. May 2. Ante mcrediem.
The Lord Bishop and Assemblic appoynted ane committee of two
bretheren from cverie one of all the sevorall Exercises within the Diocess,
to meet at the King's Colledge of Old Abel., upon the 12 day of June
next (being the second Tuesday of that moncth) at 2 houres in the
afternoon, for planting of ane Professor of Divinity at the King's
Colledgc, and for resolving on anie other thing that is referred to that
meeting, and that these two be chosen the first clay of the meeting of
the scverall Exercises respective, and that these to be chosen bring
with them the extract of their commissiones forth off their owen
severall Exercise books wherin they are to be registrat.1
Item, it is recommended to all the Exercises and ministers who
have not alrcadie collected their charitable contribution for reparation
of the Harborie of Peterheid, that now they do the same befor the
first day of (blank] next to come.
Item, that the Bishop and Synod, upon ane supplicatione given in
for ane charitable contribution towards the reparation of the harbories
of Kelburne in the West Countrey, and Innerkeithen in Fyff, grounded
upon severall warrands of Acts of Parliament and Privie Councell,
recommending the samen to all Archbishops, Bishops, noblemen,
heritors, shyres, and burroughs, for ane voluntarie contribution for that
effect, being so necessarie works for the good of the countrey, the
Lord Bishop and Synod seriouslie recommendeth the samen to all
moderators and ministers within this Diocess, that they effectuallie
and diligentlie go about the collecting of their contributiones to the
effect forsaid, and carnestlie exhort the people therunto, especiallie
seeing these warrands do proceed from the highest judicatories within
this kingdome, and would not have been granted without weightie
reasons and grounds, and that ministers themselves show good
example to their people, by adding their own charitable help therunto,
and deliver in their severall contributions either to the respective
moderators, with ane particulare nott under each minister's hand of
what is collected in everie parochin, and that the samen be sent to
Aberdeen either by the moderators or ministers, and deliver so much
as shall be collected for the harboric of Kelburne to William Leslie
B urges of Aberdeen, and what shall be collected for the harborie of
1 Note 20.
80 RECORDS OF THK MKKTINCi
Innerkeithen to Master Alexander Forbes, Clerk to the Asscmblie,
who arc appoynted Sub-Collectors to that effect.
It is ordered by the Lord Bishop and the Assemblic that Alexander
Stewart in the parochin of Turreff (as is thought), at least frequenting
the samcn, be cited to appear befor the Bishop and commission
appoynted to meet the second Tuesday of June next, being the 12 of
that moncth, to be censured as he shall be found guiltie, and that the
Exercise book of Turreff with the Kirk Session book therof be brought
in and produced befor the said Lord Bishop and committee, for clearing
the truth of that bussines concerning the said Alexander, and that anc
precept be directed for summonding the said Alexander Stewart to
compere the said day.
Sessio 4". eodem die post merediem.
It is ordered that Mr. George Burnet, parsone of Kinkairden, Mr.
Robert Reid at Banchorie, for the Exercise of Kinkairden ; Mr. Adam
Barclay at Towie, Mr. James Gordoune at Alfurd for the Exercise of
Alfurd ; Mr. Alexander Ross at Mounimusk for the Exercise of Garioch,
shall perambulat and visit the Kirks of Aboyne and Glentaner, for
considering the convenience of uniteing these kirks in one parochin,
and to meet and conferre with the heritors of these parochines ther-
anent, and to report to the Lord Bishop what they found therin, betwixt
and the last day of May next, and at furthest the second Tuesday of
June next.
Ordered that the Exercise Book of Deer be sent to Mr. William
Jaffray elder, and he accordinglie to report to the next Synod what
he finds therin to be allowed or not.
The supplication presented by James Hay, pewterer in Old Deer
for cleareing and vindicating himself of the rapt whcrupon he was
formerly accused by (blank} and her mother, the consideration
therof is referred to the said Committee, to meet the second Tuesday
of June next, as is above written.
All the bursers of Theologie are ordered to send in to the severall
moderators the names of the severall ministers who are deficient in
paying them their dues, to be presented by the moderators to the Lord
Bishop the 2d. Tuesday of June next.
Then as to the bussines anent the dask of Mortlech, it is referred
1 666] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 8 1
now as formerlie to the Exercise of Forclyce, and Mr. William Seton
at Drumblet, Mr. Robert Chein at Kinncthmount, to be assessors, and
that they report their diligence, what they find therin to the next
Assemblie.
It is ordered that everie minister give in ane particulare accompt to
the Lord Bishop what they have collected in their kirks, for the bridge of
Dye, and to whom they delivered the samine.
Mr. William Stcvensone, minister at Fordyce, is appoynted moderator
for the Exercise thereof.
For the better observing of the Exercise meetings, it is ordered that
if the present respective moderators be occasionallie absent, the other
persones after named shall supplie as moderators in vice of the absents
viz. for Aberdeen in vice of Mr. Alexander Mideltoune, principal, Mr.
Robert Rynold ; for Fordyce Mr. William Burnet at Cullen, in vice of
Mr. William Stevcnsone ; for Deer Mr. William Hay in vice of Mr.
Alexander Gairden ; for Alfurd Mr. James Gordoune in vice of Mr.
Adam Barclay ; for Garioch Mr. James Straquhan in vice of Mr.
Alexander Rosse ; for Kinkairden Mr. Robert Reid in vice of Mr.
George Burnet ; for Ellon Mr. Gilbert Andersone in vice of Mr. George
Melvin ; for Turreff Mr. Andrew Skein in vice Mr. William Jaffray.
John Deins, merchand, ane depauperat man by shipwrack (who
was recommended by the former Synod for ane charitable supplie) is of
new recommended to the bretheren for the same purpose, to collect for
him at their severall kirks who have not as yet done the samin.
Item, the lyke recommendation is granted for John Semple and
Marjorie Bankis who were burned and wasted by fire.
Item, it is recommended to the Commissioners who are to meet the
said second Tuesday of June next, that they bring with them ane list
of their names who are fugitives from disciplin within their respective
parochines, and especiallie such as are not given up as yet at this Synod.
It is appoynted that the next Assemblie shall bcginne the first
Tuesday of October next 1666.
It is ordered that all absents and deficients in payment of the Clerk's
and officier's dues send in the samin with the commissioners who are
appoynted to meet the said second Tuesday of June next, as the
deficients will be answerable.
[Names of fugitives from discipline}
L
82 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [l666
At Alfurcl May 24, 1666.
Mr. John Walker hade the doctrin on Rom. 14, 20, vvherin he is
approven, and it is ordained that Mr. Adam Barclay exercise on the
ordinarie mater at the next meeting, which is appoynted to be June 20.
Mr. Robert Chein reported that the Elders of his Session still declined
to give in the penalties of those who were convict for profanation of the
Lord's day by corne leading thcron, and the said Mr. Robert is sharplie
reproved for his slackncs in that mater, and it is ordained that the Bishop
be advised with what course shall be taken in the bussines, and that so
much the rather as the bursers of Divinity are not satisfied by the
Session, and this advice is to be sought of the Lord Bishop by the
commissioners who are to be appoynted to keep the meeting at Old
Aberdeen the second Tuesday of June.
In obedience to the ordinance of the Bishop and Synod, the brethren
did choose Mr. Adam Barclay, and Mr. George Watsone to attend the
meeting at the Colleclge Kirk of Old Aberdeen, the second Tuesday of
June, for the nomination and election of a Professor of Divinity, and
other maters ther to be handled, and a commission is ordained to be
drawin up and subscrybed by the Clerk, to them for that effect.
cases of discipline}
June 20, 1666.
There was no exercise, in regard of the moderator's absence who
should have exercised, and Mr. James Gordoune moderat in his roome.
Mr. James Ross declared that his former absence was occasioned by
rough sickness, wherfor he is excused.
Anent the Elders of Kinnethmount, no report from the Bishop in
regaird of the moderator's absence, who should give ane account of the
5
same.
(Mr. Walker had supplied Kcig, Mr. Chein to supply next.)
A regrate being given in by Mr. Robert Chein, concerning some
licentious ( ? deboardings) at pennie bridels, it is referred to the next
Synod, to be advysed what course shall be takin for repressing the
same.
Next meeting to be Julii 18.
[20 cases of discipline}
1 666] OF THE EXERCISE OE ALFORI). 83
At Alftird Julie 25, 1666.
Mr. Adam Barclay exercised on Rom. 14, 21, and the doctrin was
approven. And the same Mr. Adam being moderator inquired at the
severall bretheren whether they hade gotten tymous advertisement for
the observation of the fast, appoynted by publick authority to be keept
upon the 18 of Julie (on the account wherof the dyet of the Exercise was
changed to this day) for success to His Majestie's forces by sea, and
whether they hade observed the samin ; as lykwisc whether they hade
observed the anniversaric solemnities May 29. All the bretheren de
clared they hade observed the fast ; onely Mr. Robert Irving declared
that, in regaird to indisposition of boclie, he hade not observed the
anniversarie, and Mr. John Maire declared that, by a nccessarie avocation
to Aberdeen the day befor it, he was withdrawen from the observation of
it, but that he hade excused himself for it befor the Bishop.1
The moderator reported that he and Mr. George Watsone hade
keeped the dyet at Aberdeen for the effect conveincd in the Act of the
Synod, and that ther was a new dyet appoynted for the same effect to be
keept the second Tuesday of August.
The next meeting appointed to be August 15, and Mr. Robert
Chein to exercise upon the ordinaric mater.
Anent the bussines of the corne leaders of Kinncthmount, the
moderator reported that he hade advyscd with the Bishop theranent,
and he produced a letter from the Bishop, warranding the bretheren to
visit anie church where the bursers of Divinitie are not payed, and to
call to ane rigorous account when the penalties and poores money are
imployed, and to rectifie these, or anie other disorders in the said
churches, which being intimat to the minister of Kinnethmont he is
desired to intimat the same to his ciders, with certification if he returne
not a satisfactorie report from them the next dyet, the bretheren will
appoynt a visitation of the church, and call both them and him to ane
account.
Mr. Adam Barclay desired that the day of his institution at Keig
might be marked in the Register, which is done accordinglie, the day
being the 10 of this instant.
[21 cases of discipline}
1 Note 21.
84
RECORDS OF THE MEETINC, [1666
At Alfurd August 15, 1666.
Some of the bretheren having mett, but the moderator and some
others being withclrawcn by the laird of Wardchous his buriall, and
the speaker withdrawcn by infirmitie and indisposition of bodie, the
meeting was adjourned to the 5'- of Septr
At Alfurd Septr. 12, 1666.
In regaird that by order for a publick thanksgiving for the victorie
over the Dutches, to be observed on the 6'- of Septr., the bretheren could
not meet on the clay formcrlie appointed, the meeting was continued till
this day. Mr. Robert Chein exercised Rom. 14, 22 and is approver).
The next meeting is appoynted to be Septr. 26, and no doctrin to be
the said day, in regaird of multiplicitic of cffairs, which, together with the
privie censure, will take up the tyme.
Mr. Robert Chein having given no further account from his Session
anent the penalties of the profaners of the Lord's day by corne lead
ing, but that they still refused to give up the same, the bretheren have
appoynted a visitation of the church of Kinncthmount to be upon the
last day of October, to call that bussines to ane account, and to look
to the other effairs of that Church, and Mr. Walter Ritchie and Mr.
William Glass are appoynted to visit that Session's books.
It being intimat to the bretheren that the Bishop desired that ther
might be a more frequent handling of controversies, they resolved to
proceed therin accordinglie, and Mr. John Walker is ordained to handle
the controversie An quis possit sine crimine scparare se ab Ecclesia which is
the next branch of the controversie de Ecclesia following in ordour after
the last that was handled, conforme to the ordinance of the Presbyterie,
December 29, 1649.
The bretheren are inquired whether they hade kcept the publick
thanksgiveing, to be keept for the victorie over the Dutch. They all
gave ane account that they hade observed the same.
Mr. Robert Irving desired that the dait of his institution (at Towic)
might be insert in the Presbiterie Book, which was accordinglie done,
the dait thcrof being Julie 26 last bypast.
1 666] OF THE EXERCISE OE ALEORD. 8$
Mr. Andrew Abercrombie desired the lyk, which was accordinglie
granted, the dait therof being the said 26 of Julie last bypast.
Mr. Robert Irving and Mr. Andrew Abercrombie are ordained to
meet with the moderator and Clerk at Towie for visiting the scrolls
and filling up the Register, that the book may be in to my Lord
Bishop with all convenience.
[20 cases of discipline]
Kingis Colledge Old Abd. 2 Octob. 1666.
The Exercise buik of Alford is approven by the Lord Bishop and
Synod.
Mr. Alex. Forbes, Clerk of the Synod.
Referrs in the Assemblie of Aberdeen, begun upon the
second of October 1666.
Ante merediem.
After sermon hade by the Lord Bishop, and incalling upon the
name of God, the roll of the ministers' names was called, the absents
notted, and visitors appoynted for examining the books of the severall
Presbiteries within the Dioces.
Eodem die post merediem.
This afternoon was spent in visiting and examining the books of the
several Presbiterics, and the books of Aberdeen, Kinkairdcn, Alfurd and
Garioch approven.
3 Octob. ante merediem.
It is ordained that no fast be kcept in anie privat congregation,
without warrand obtained from the Lord Bishop, and when anie
extraordinarie emergent shall fall out, that ane fast shall be thought
necessarie, the minister of the place shall acquaint the Lord Bishop
therwith, for obtaining his warrand therunto.
It is ordered that in everie Presbiterie at the meeting two common
heads be handled betwixt everie Synod.
It is ordered that everie minister search their books and registers for
excommunicat persones, and give in anc roll of them to the next Synod.
The book of Deir is approven.
86 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1666
Eodcm die post meredicm.
The warrand in precciding Assemblies in favors of John Deans
is prorogat and continued untill he receive ane charitable help and
contribution out of these parochines who have not as yet collected for
him, and the brethcren in everie parochine ordered to collect for him in
their severall churches.
The Book of Fordyce approven.
Ordered that Mr. Walter Darge, within the Presbitery of Fordyce
be deprived of the libertie of preaching or exercising the ministeriall
function in tyme comeing, and if he be found to contraveen, to be
excommunicat.1
The former warrands of the last Synod anent contributions to be
collected in the severall congregations of the Uioces for rcparatione of
the herbours of Kelburnie and Invcrkeithine are continued to such
parochines as have not alreadie collected for that effect.
Ordered that all ministers who are to send in their excuse in wreits
to the Lord Bishop for their absence in all insueing Assemblies do all
direct their letters to the Clerk, who is ordered to deliver the same to the
Lord Bishop, and that they send in therewith the Clerk's and the officier's
dues, otherwise their excuse for their absence not to be admitted.
The meeting of the next Synod is appoynted to be the third Tuesday
of Aprile next 1667.
[ TJien follows a list of fugitives from discipline}
At Alfoord September 26.
The moderator and bretheren being mctt thcr was no doctrin, in
regaird of the multiplicitic of effaires, which would take up the tyme.
Mr. George Gairden, and Mr. Robert Dunbar were excused for their
last daye's absence, by reason of their valctudinarie condition, by which
reasone they are also excused for their absence this day. Mr. James
Ross being absent is excused, through the loosenes of the countrey,
some parties of loose Highlanders being about the said fields. Mr.
Andrew Abercrombie absent.
Mr. William Glass desired that his institution at Kildrummie, which
was Septr. 13, might be put on record, which by these presents is
accordinglie done.
1 Note 22.
1 666] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 87
Mr. Robert Irving is ordained to supplic the vacancie at Glenbucket
on a Lord's day befor next meeting.
The bretheren were severally removed for privie censures, and were
approven.
Mr. John Walker is advertised to handle his controversie the next
meeting at Kinnethmount.
\2O cases of discipline}
At Kinnethmount October 31, 1666.
The bretheren being conveined received a letter from Mr. John
Walker, excusing him that he could not be present for handling the
controversie according as he was injoined.
Mr. Robert Irving being absent is excused, in regaird he hade gone
to Braemarre by ane order from the Bishop, to celebrat Roderick
Mackenzie his marriage with Invercauld his relict.
Mr. Robert Chein, being inquired whether he hade intimat this
meeting to the congregation, reported that he hade done so from the
pulpit, both Octob. 21 and 28.
The elders names were given up by him, which were Robert Milne,
Thomas Barclay, James Milne, David Andersone, James Robertsone,
John Craigh, Gavin Cruckshank. These were all present except Robert
Milne and David Andersone.
Mr. Walter Ritchie, and Mr. William Glass reported that they hade
received the Session Book of Kinnethmount, but that it was not yet
filled up from the date of Aprile 1664. Whereupon it is ordained, that
the minister have the book filled up, and in readiness against the second
of Februarie, and deliver it to the foresaid visitors, that they may give
in the full report thereof to the brethren at the next meeting after the
said day.
It being found that some of the elders of the Session of Kinneth
mount hade pledged themselves in some measure as sureties for the
penalties injoined on these who were guiltie of the profanation of the
Lord's day by leading of come, and the said elders viz. James Milne and
James Robertsone did now fullie obledge themselves for the same to the
Fresbiterie, but desired some tyme wherein they might exact the same
88 RECORDS OF TIIK MEETING [l666
from the delinquents : Wherupon it is ordained that, with all convenient
diligence, they persue the said delinquents befor the Commissarie, and
that they have these penalties forthcoming for the defraying of the
ordinarie publick dues of that church.
{Discipline case — John Wilson and Jean Burnett.]
Anent the forcsaid John Wilsone, the Minister represented to the
Presbiteric, that he hade behaved himself most insolentlie towards him,
with reproachfull and threatening speeches, and disdainful! behaviour,
bidding him scverall times hang himself, and that hce knew not what
held his hands unopened him, and that he should yet reward him, and
took him by the shoulder. The said John being interrogat theranent,
denyed the same. Wherupon Mr. Robert Chein desired that, seeing
the witnesses were present, who could prove the particulars, they might
be instantlie called to bear witness theranent. And the brctheren
did immcdiatlie call the said witnesses viz. Mr. William Morgan
Schoolmaster at Kinncthmount, James Reidfoord, John Jamisone, and
Alexander Couper, indwellcrs in the said parochin, who being admitted
by the said John were swornc in his presence, and deponed as followeth
viz. Mr. William Morgan depouned that the said John Wilsone said to
the minister that hee should reward him for his good service, and that hee
bade him lykwise hang himself, and all his kinne, and that hee knew not
what held his hands unopened him. James Reidfoord depouned that hee
heard him say, that as the minister had served him this day, so should
hee serve him another day, and that hce bade him scverall tymes hang
himself, and that hee knew not what held his hands unopened him, but
that hee saw him not take him by the shoulder. John Jamisone
depouned ut supra, except in the first expression. Alexander Couper
depouned ut John Jamisone. Wherupon the brethren thought fitt to
referre the matter to the Bishop, and advised Mr. Robert to represent
it to his Lordship, that hee might represent it to the High Commission,
that course might be taken theranent.
[2 discipline cases]
Anent the matter of Mr. John Seaton, which was formerly referred to
the Synod, it being found that it was omitted in the referrs therof, and it
OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 89
being reported that the said Mr. John was removed out of the bounds of
the Presbiteric to the Presbiterie of Aberdeen, it is ordained that the
Moderator write to the Moderator of Aberdeen, that the said Master
John be processed till hcc report a testimonial! from us, and that in the
meantyme everie brother of the Exercise doe, from pulpit, intimat in
their sevcrall congregationcs, that none doe imploy or countenance the
said Mr. John in anie part of the ministcriall function, within their
families, under pain of censure.1
The day being spent, all other matters are continued to the next
meeting, which is appointed to be at Alfoord Novr. 29.
At Alfoord Novr. 29, 1666.
Mr. John Walker handled the common head formerlie prescribed to
him, and the doctrin was approven.
Mr. William Christie presented a letter from the Bishop, ordering that
hce be put upon his tryall, with institution to the ministerie at Glen-
bucket. It is ordained that as the first poynt of tryall, hee exercise
and have the addition at the next meeting, on the ordinarie matter of
the exercise at Alfoord, Deer., 27.
It is ordained that Mr. John Mair supplie the vacancie At Cushnie
once before the next meeting.
o
[12 cases of discipline}
Anent Mr. John Seaton severall of the brethren having forgotten to
intimat the ordinance, it is renewed.
At Alfoord December 27, 1666.
Mr. William Christie exercised on Rom. 14, 22, 23, and was approven.
It is appoynted that the said Mr. William have a popular sermon
upon i Tim. I. 15, which is appoynted to be at Alfoord Januarie 24.
Mr. John Maire reported that hee hade obeyed the former ordinance
in supplying the vacancie of Cushnie, and Mr. John Leslie is ordained
to preach once their befor next meeting.
o
\2o discipline arses]
1 Note 23.
M
90 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1667
At Alfoord Januarie 24 1667.
By reason of the storminess of the weather, no meeting but of some
few of the brethren, who appoynted the next meeting to be Fcbruarie 7.
At Alfoord Fcbruarie 7, 1667.
Mr. William Christie preached a popular sermon I Tim. I, 15; and
the cloctrin is approven. It is prescrybed to him as his next poynt
of tryall that hee handle the common head, De principio formali
mediationis in Christ o mediatore.
Mr. John Leslie not having supplied the vacancie of Cushnie, it is
ordained that hee supplie it one day, and Mr. William Glass another
befor next meeting.
[75 cases of discipline}
By reference from the Session of Tough, a bill given in by George
Wilsone to the said Session, desireing a room in the Church of Tough
for ane desk, was presented to the Presbiterie, which bill is referred by
the Presbiterie to the Bishop.
Mr. James Gordoune, minister at Alfoord, did represent to the
Presbiterie, that John and Alaster Forbeses, sones of umquhill Robert
Forbes of Invereirne, had murthered Andrew Bain, in the Parochin
of Alfoord. The matter is referred to the Synod to be advysed
what course shall be taken theranent.
It is appoynted that the next meeting be March 7th.
At Alfoord March 7, 1667.
Mr. William Christie handled the common head, as was formerlie
prescrybed. And the next dyet hee is ordained to sustain his dispute
therupon, and the rest of the pairts of his tryals viz. : his questionarie
tryall, and the tryall in the languages, which clyet was appoynted to be
March 28.
Mr. John Leslie not haveing yet supplied the vacancie at Cushnie is
again ordained to supplie the same, Sabbath day come eight dayes, and
Mr. William Glass Sabbath day come a fortnight.
[77 cases of discipline]
1667] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. QI
Anent Mr. John Seaton, the moderator reported that hee hade
written to Mr. Robert Rynolcl conforme to the former ordinance, and
the several 1 brethren give ane account of their intimation of the
ordinance of the meeting concerning him.
It being found that the tymc granted for filling up the Session book
of Kinnethmont \vas expired, it was ordained to be delivered to the
visitors thereof viz. : Mr. William Glass and Mr. Walter Ritchie, and
a report thcrof to be given against the next day.
Mr. John Walker and Mr. John Maire are ordained to visit the
Session book of Clatte, and the book is delivered to Mr. John Walker.
At Alfoord March 28, 1667.
Mr. William Christie sustained his dispute and questionarie tryall,
and tryall of languages, and was therm approven.
The Moderator and brethren of the Exercise haveing taken into con-
sideratione the severall poynts of tryall, which Mr. William Christie hade
sustained with intention to the ministeriall function, and haveing found
that in exercise, populare sermon, handling of controversie, disputes, and
questionarie tryall, lice hade acquite himself to their satisfaction, they
ordained that a recommendation should be transmitted, under the Clerk's
hands, to the ordinarie, the Right Reverend Father in God, Patrick,
Bishop of Aberdeen, that the said Mr. William might receive ordination
from him.
Mr. John Leslie reported that hee hade supplied the vacancie of
Cushnie as hee was appoynted.
Mr. William Christie is ordained henceforth to supplie the vacancie
of Glenbucket.
[ij eases of discipline}
The Visitors of the Session book of Kinnethmount declared they hade
received the same, and promised to have the report readie against the
next day.
Ancnt the Session book of Clatte, it is reported that Mr. John Maire,
one of the visitors, hade not yet seen it, but it shall be delivered to him
with diligence.
The severall brethren were removed one by one, for their privie
92 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [I<367
censure, and were approval, but some exhorted to wait better on the
^The' iext meeting appoyntcd to be May iC, and Mr. James Ross
following in the ordinarie course of the Exercise, the exerc,
upon him.
Referrs of the Diocesian Synod of Aberdeen, holden in
Apryll 1667.
Apryll 16. Sess. r. ante mercdiem
Imprimis after sermon hade by the Lord Bishop, the roll of the
miniZs< names was called, the absents netted, and visitors appoynted
for everie Presbiterie book which was produced.
It is ordered by the Lord Bishop and Synod, that old age,
verie extreme and accompanied with other deseases, so that, through
nfiJ^e the absents may not be abell, shall not be ane sufficient excuse
or aten'ce, and that, conforme to the former Acts, ever, absen send
in his excuse in wret to the Lord Bishop, d.rectcd to the <
Itemoree, sometyme Reider in Slaines, is recommended,
conformi o hi! former warrands, to all such parish churches, who have
nor as vet contribut for ane charitable supphe to him.
em it Ts ordered that all ministers absent from the.r Presb,tenes,
severall Presbiterie books which were produced.
Sess 3° Aprill 17. ante meredi
It is ordered that all these who receive
,*„« •» *•
1667] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORI). 93
of the Act of Assemblie holdcn in October 1662, few or no ministers
within this dioces have given in to the procurator fiscall ane list and
roll of the defunct pcrsones within their severall parishes, therfore the
foresaid Act is hereby renewed, with this express addition, that all
ministers who shall fail in giveing in at everie Synod ane list of the
dead within their parochins shall be deprived of all ease and benefit
of the said former act anent confirmeing of ministers and their wives
testaments gratis.
Item, it is ordered by the Lord Bishop and Synod that everie
minister within this dioces, who have not as yet contribut at their
churches for help and support to the Polonian students, shall as yet
collect for them, and what shall be received to be sent in to Mr. John
Menzies, Professor, befor the first of Julie next.
Item, William Keith in Garlogie is seriouslie recommended by the
Lord Bishop and Synod to everie minister within this dioces, for ane
charitable contribution, to be collected for him at each parochin Church,
conforme to his supplication, and deliverance therof.
Item, it is ordered that all ministers be carefull that the bursers of
Divinitie be punctuallie payed, to witt, twentie shilling for ilk hundreth
communicants, and that each moderator take ane exact account therof,
and everie minister give up to the Lord Bishop ane list of the defaulters,
that visitatione may be made at there Kirks for redressing therof.
Item, it is ordered that all ministers who have not as yet collected
for ane charitable help and support towards Major John Kerr may as
yet collect for him with all diligence they can, conforme to his supplica
tion, and former order given therupon, October last.
Item, it is ordered by the Lord Bishop and Synod, that, in everie
parish kirk within this dioces, it may be notted in the Session books,
i. the text wherupon the minister hath his sermon each Lord's day, 2.
next, that the dayes and dyets of each minister his catechizing his
people be also notted, and everie minister be carefull to goe through
all his people at least once everie yeir, and 3. that ministers make
report to the severall Presbiteries when they have gone through their
catechizing, and how oft in the yeir communion is administered, and
ane nott therof made in the Presbiterie books, and that the samin, with
the rest of the Presbiterie Acts, be presented at each Assemblie to the
Lord Bishop and Synod.
94 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1667
Item, in regard to the multitud of fugitives and other loose people
wandering from place to place to shift the censure of the Church, it is
ordered by the Lord Bishop and Synod that all ministers within this
dioces doc give tymous warning from pulpit before everie tcrme, that no
strangers be received within their respective congregationes without
sufficient testimonials, and that within a moneth after everie terme they
cause their elders visit their scverall quarters, and demand testimonials
from everie person which hath come to reside within the parochin at
that tyme, and that the names of such as want testimonials being given
by them to the Session, the Session shall therupon forthwith conveen
those personcs befor them, and process them, ay and while they report
sufficient testimonials, that they process also such as doe continue
in harboring and receiving those disorderlie persones, and because
vagabonds may come to parishes betwixt terms, therfore it is lykwise
ordered that ministers and the elders in everie congregation make the
lyke inquirie for testimonials once everie moneth, and give ane account
of their diligence accordingly to the Session, who shall proceed against
such persones, as is befor ordained, and that the minister's and Sessione's
diligence therm be recorded in the severall Session books.
Session 4th eodem die post merediem.
Item, in regaird of the growth of error, it is ordered by the Lord
Bishop and Synod that everie minister keep ane watchfull eye over his
whole flock, where they have ground to suppose anie wavering, or lyk to
be drawn away by seducers from the truth, that, upon the first notice
therof, they be carefull to deall with them tymouslie, and informe them
for the preventing of their further desertion, and for this end to call to
their assistance anie one or more of the brethren of the ministerie, if they
shall find it needfull. As also in such parishes where profest papists
or quakers are, Presbiteries be diligent that they be speedilie conferred
with by such as shall be thought fittest for the work, and that such of
them as doe obstinatlie refuse conference, or, after sufficient means
granted them of information, shall give no probable hopes of their
reclaiming, be therafter formallie procest with the censure of the Church.
Item, for restraining abounding profanity, it is lykwise ordered as
aforesaid that all ministers within this clioces be careful in exerciseing
Church censure against such scandalous persones, by uncleanness,
l66/] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 95
drunkenness, curseing, Sabbath breaking-, &c., and for guarding against
the profanation of the Lord's day, that ministers be carefull to inculcat
to their people the great dutie of sanctifying the Sabbath, and that those
who are indwellers within anie town or parochin that shall be found
unneccssarilie travelling on journey to or from home on the Lord's day
shall forthwith be called befor the respective Sessions wher they live,
and injoined to be admonished, rebuked, and make confession of their
sinne befor the congregation, otherwise to be processed, and if anie be
found travelling without the parish wher they reside, that their names be
given up by the minister of the parish where they are deprehended, to
the minister of the parish where they live, to the effect they may be
censured accorclinglie, and that publication be made of this Act by
everie minister, at each parish Church within this dioces, wherthrough
none may pretend ignorance.
Item the Lord Bishop and Synod recommend Thomas Findlater,
in the parish of Rathin, to everie minister within this dioces, to collect
ane charitable contribution in their severall Churches and Church
Sessiones.
The next Synod is appoynted to be and beginne upon the first
Tuesday of October next 1667.
[Here follows list of "fugitives from discipline " — 9 from Aberdeen
Presbytery, 19 from Deir Presbytery.]
At Alfoord May 16, 1667.
There was no exercise, Mr. James Ross, upon whom the exercise lay,
having been the former day absent, and not knowing that it fell to him
to exercise.
The said Mr. James excused his former daye's absence by inability
to travell, but in regaircl that he hade been absent throughout the whole
winter half yeir, hee is admonished and exhorted to keep the meetings
more punctuallie.
The brethren having taken notice of Mr. Robert Dunbar his absence
for about the twelve moneth bygone, without anie letter or excuse, or
anie account of his discipline sent from him, did appoynt two of their
number viz.: Mr. Walter Ritchie and Mr. John Maire to goe and confer
with him theranent, and to report to the next meeting.
96 RECORDS OK THE MEETING [1667
Mr. John Leslie presented to the Presbitcrie an order from the Bishop
to enter him to his tryals, with institution to the ministerie at the Church
of Cushnie ; \vherupon it is ordained that he have the Exercise and
Addition, upon the ordinarie matter the next meeting, which is
appoynted to be June 5.
No report from Mr. William Christie ancnt the supplie of the vacancie
of Glenbucket.
[ip cases of d is dpi in c\
The visitors of the book of Kinnethmont declared that they hacle not
yet fullie visited it, but when soone they should have done they should
make report to the Presbiterie.
Mr. William Glass delivered the Session book of Cushnie to be
visited, and Mr. George \Vatsone and Mr. John Walker are appoynted
visiters therof, and to make report to the meeting.
A motion being made by some brethren what ecclesiasticall censure
should be imposed on such as are guiltie of theft, it is referred to be
advised with by the Bishop and Synod.
At Alfoord June 5, 1667.
Mr. John Leslie did exercise and add on Romans 15, I, and is
approven. It is ordained that hee have a populare sermon on Matthew
5, 8, at the next meeting, which is appoynted to be June 27.
The brethren sent to Mr. Robert Dunbar reported, that they hade
spoken to him anent his absence from the Presbiterie, who hade declared
that hee was not clear to keep with us under the present government, in
regaird to his oath at his admission to the ministerie, in regaird wherof
hee could not be a member of our meetings, unless hee would come over
the bellie of his conscience. It is ordained that the matter be referred
to the Bishop, and that a letter thcranent be written to his Lordship by
the moderator.
It is reported that Mr. William Christie hade supplied the vacancie
at Glenbucket the Lord's day week eight clayes.
The visiters of the book of Kinnethmount declared that they were
readie to give in the report, but is continued by reason of the minister's
absence.
1 667] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 97
The visiters of the book of Cushnie are found not yet readie to make
the report.
The severall brethren did report that they had intimat the names of
the severall fugitives within this Presbiterie publicklie from their pulpits.
[16 cases of discipline}
At Alfoord June 27, 1667.
Mr. John Leslie hade a populare sermon on Matthew 5, 8, and is
approven, and is ordained to handle the controversie, De merito bonorum
operum, at the next meeting which is appoynted to be Julie 24.
The report of the Session book of Kinnethmount continued in regaird
of the minister's absence.
The visiters of the book of Cushnie not yet readie to give in their
report, it is ordained that they use diligence therin against the nixt
meeting.
[12 cases of discipline]
The moderator, with Mr. Walter Ritchie and Mr. John Maire, are
appoynted to visit the Schools of Alfoord and Tillinessle, upon the
Moneday and Tuesday befor the next meeting.
At Alfoord Julie 24, 1667.
Mr. John Leslie handled the controversie, De merito bonorum operum,
and was approven, and the next dyet he is ordained to sustain his
disputes, questionarie tryals, and the tryall of the Languages, which is
appoynted to be August 14.
The last dayes absents were gravelie admonished for their absence,
their reasons not being relevant.
Mr. William Christie desired that the day of his institution at
Glenbucket should be put on record which was Julie 24.
It is reported that John Wilsone is admonished pro 3°. June 9, prayed
for pro i°. June 16, pro 2°. June 23, pro 3°. June 30. It is ordained that
hee be cited to next meeting to object if hee hath anie thing against the
formalitie of the process.
[12 cases of discipline}
98 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1667
The brethren appoynted for the visitation of the Schools reported
that they hade obeyed the ordinance, and hade warned the School
masters to reforme what disorders they hade found, and particularely
the Schoolmaster of Tillinessle, who was sharplie rebuked for suffering
his schollers to wear armcs, anent which the brethren of the Exercise
admonished him to bewarre of that, or anie the lyk insolcncie for the
future.
The moderator reported that he hade written to the Bishop anent Mr.
Robert Dunbar, conform to the former ordinance.
At the desire of Mr. Thomas Forbes his relict, it is ordained that
the appretiation of the manse and bigging of Keig be registrate in
the Presbiterie book, the tenor wherof followeth.
At Keig August 30, 1666 yeirs, by virtue of a commission directed by
ane Right Reverend father Patrick, by the mercie of God, Bishop of
Aberdeen, for the appretiation of the bigging and houses belonging to
the executors and aires of umquhill Mr. Thomas Forbes, late minister
there, conveined Mr. George Gairden minister at Clate, Mr. James
Gordoune, minister at Alfoord, Mr. Walter Ritchie, minister at Forbes,
and Mr. John Maire, minister at Tough, together with John
wright in Folfurd, Patrick Snowie, mason, wher ane edict lawfullie
execute and indorsit being given in to the said ministers, and
publicklie called at the Church doors. Conveined William, master of
Forbes, and George Wilsone, heritors, who giveing no reason, neither
makeing anie exception why the said houses and bigging should not be
appretiat nor yet against the workmen chosen, the said workmen were
solemnly sworn for their faithfulnes. Wherupon the said ministers,
together with the workmen, proceeded to the appretiation, and found as
followeth. Imprimis ane hall with ane chamber on the one end, and ane
cellar on the other, the hall and the chamber consisting of eight cuples, of
one balk, the chamber of one cuple, the cellar having above it ane loft,
and the whole three having in them five windowes, and ane fixed bed in
the hall, item ane kitchen, consisting of sixtein peece of great timber, and
twelve dissen of kebbars, with ane midle wall, and ane chamber on the end
of it, having ane window of three lights, and consisting of nine peece of
great timber ; item ane stable consisting of one cuple, eight pannes and
fourtie kebbars, doore and doore cheeks, lock bands, manger and rings ;
OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 99
item ane byre of ane cuple, with ten panne and roof; item ane yeat con
sisting of nine boards, foure bands, and two steples; item ane hill and
hill barne, of twentie great timber, eight dissene of kebbars, with doores,
lock, and bands suteable ; item ane utter byre on the end of the hill
barne, of nine great timber, and with other necessaries ; item ane corne
yard dyke bigged of dry stone ; item three quarters of ane orchyard
dyke, within which are fourtie two great trees, and threttie nine small
trees, yeard doore and bands. All which having been particularely veued
by the oversight of the said workmen, and having taken the particulare
inventor of everie particulare within them, the said ministers did
appretiat them to the value of three hundreth sixtie nine pundis Scottis,
three shilling, eight pennies — which to be of veritie is testified by these
presents, written by the said Mr. John Maire and subscrybed by us,
Sic subscribitur
Jo. Maire
Mr. James Gordoune
Sic subscribitur by the Bishope Mr. Walter Ritchie
Old Abd. Octob. 9, 1666.
The above mentioned appretiation
of the Manse of Keig is found orderly made,
and is therfor allowed by me,
Pat Bp. of Aberdeen.
At Alfoord August 14, 1667.
Mr. John Leslie sustained his dispute, and the rest of the pairts of his
tryals, and was approven.
The moderator and brethren of the Exercise haveing taken to con
sideration the severall pairts of the tryals past by the said Mr. John, and
rinding him to have given satisfaction therin, ordained that a letter of
recommendation should be transmitted in his favorc to the Bishop, that
hee may receive ordination from him.
The visiters of the book of Kinnethmount were readie to give in their
report, but in regaird there were severall escapes found therin, wherof
they thought fitt to admonish the minister, who is now absent, the
moderator and brethren of the Exercise referred the said report unto
their privie censure.
too
RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1667
No report of the book of Cushnie, one of the visiters being absent.
Anent John Wilsoue, anc execution duelie indorsit being given in
against him, he is called, but not appearing, the process is ordained to be
extracted and transmitted to the Bishop.
Ther was presented a letter from the Bishop desireing that some of the
brethren might be appoyntcd to goe to the Church of Tough to indeavor
ane accommodation betwixt George Wilsone of Finzeach, and the rest
of the heritors of that parochin, anent ane roome for a dask to him
in the said Church, whcrupon it is appoynted that the moderator, George
Watsone, and Mr. Walter Ritchie meet there together with the minister
of the place and the heritors, who are to be advertised to that effect, on
the 16 of this instant, that report may be made to the Bishop according
as his letter requires.
It is appoynted that the next meeting be September 5, and Mr. James
Ross ordained to exercise on the ordinarie matter of the exercise.
[/</ cases of discipline}
At Alfoord September 5, 1667.
Mr. James Ross exercised on Romans 15. 23, the doctrin is censured,
and hee exhorted to studie more clearnes in his doctrin.
The next meeting is appoynted to be at Alfoord, September 18, and
no doctrin to be, in regaird to the multiplicitie of effaires, and privie
censure.
The report of the Session book of Cushnie is given in, and is approven.
The brethren appoynted to meet at Tough reported that they hade
obeyed the ordinance, but could effectuat nothing, whcrupon they were
to give a returne to the Bishop.
By order sent from the Bishop, it is ordained that William Forbes of
New, John Forbes of Ledmakay, Robert Andersone in Lochans, Donald
M'Alaster now in Strathdoune, be summoned to the next meeting to
answer for their profanation of the Lord's day by fighting, wounding, and
maiming one another, and witnesses to be summoned to that effect.
By order also from the Bishop, it is ordained that Mr. Robert Dunbar
be summoned litera scripta to appear befor the next meeting, and the
1667] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORI). IOI
brethren ordained Mr. George Gairden to caus his officer lay on the
summones on him, and returne the execution to the Presbiterie.
It is ordained that, in reference also to ane order sent from the
Bishop, the severall ministers give in the names of the papists, as well
excommunicat as not excommunicat, within their congregationes, as also
the names of all professed quakers if anie be, that they may be presented
by the Bishop to the councell against the first of November.
By reference from the Session of Alfoord, William Mitchell being ane
elder of the said Session, is delaited to have contumaciouslie disobeyed
ane ordinance of the said Session, in face of the congregation, by refusing
to collect for the poor. It is ordained that hee be summoned to the next
dyet.
[7 cases of discipline'}
At Alfoord September 18, 1667.
No exercise by reason of the multiplicitie of affairs, and privie
censure.
Though the report of the Session book of Kinnethmount was
continued to this dyet, yet, by reason of the minister's absence, it is
found that it must be continued to the next.
A litterall summonds, lawfullie execute, was given in against William
Forbes of New, John Forbes of Ladmakay, Robert Andersone in
Lochans, and Donald McAllaster, chargeing them to appear befor this
meeting: and lykwise against William Forbes of Culquharie, John
Forbes of Buquhain, Robert Mechie in Meikle Glencarvie, John
Milne in the Orel, John Morgan sometyme Schoolmaster in Strath-
done, and John Milne in Dilhandie, chargeing them to appear and
bear witness in the matter of the pairties foresaid, who being all called,
appeared onely William Forbes of New, who is charged apud acta to
be present at the next dyet of the Exercise, and it is ordained that all
the rest of the foresaid persones be summoned pro 2°.
By letter from Mr. George Gairden, it is reported that hee had not
summoned Mr. Robert Dunbar, in regaird hee thought it incumbent to
the Presbiterie officer. The brethren takeing it evil that hee hade so
slighted their ordinance, as if the officers hade not been subordinat to
102 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1667
them, ordained him dc novo to caus his officer to summond the said
Mr. Robert to the next meeting, and a letter to be written to the said
Mr. George by the moderator for this effect.
Conformc to the Bishop's order, the brethren gave in the names of
the papists in their sevcrall congregations as followcth viz.: in Tillinessle
William Gordoune of Terpersie professed papist, Anna Gordoune his
daughter-in-law Laidie Terpersie cxcommunicat for poperic ; for the
parochin of Auchindore Francis Gordoune of Craig excommunicat,
Anna Gordoune his Laidie profest papist, Robert Hood in the Mains
of Craig excommunicat, and Marie Ogilvie his spouse, Alexander
Gordoune servant to the laird of Craig excommunicat ; for the
parochin of Strathdiveran, Cabrach, James Stewart of Lcsmurdie,
Elspet Straquhan his wife, and Patrick Gordoune, all three excom
municat ; professed papists, but not excommunicat William Grant in
Ardwell, Isobell Gairden his wife, John Duff in Shewell, Margaret
Kelman his wife, William Anderson in Socco, Jean Corsbie his wife,
Agnas Murray ; in the parochin of Kinnethmount Patrick Gordoune
of Cults excommunicat, Christan Grant his spouse profest papist,
Thomas Gordoune of Mostoune excommunicat, Margaret Dunbar his
spouse, whose process is closed, but not sentenced, Hugh Gordoune of
Kirkhill, and Elspet Hay his spouse, whose processes are also come
to the sentences, James Peirie, servant to Patrick Gordoune of Cults,
whose process is also come to the sentence ; in Clatte James Bettie
and Jean Reedford professed papists.
Appeared William Mitchell, who being convict by his own confession
of his contumacious disobedience to the Session's ordinance, as before
said, is ordained to collect the poor's money in the Church till the next
dyet of the Exercise, and to deliver it to the other collector appoynted
by the Session, and that under pain of process, and withall hee is
charged apud acta to the next meeting to receive his censure.
It is referred to be advysed with the Assemblie, what course shall be
taken with elders who either desert the Session, or slight the ordinances
therof.
It is recommended to the brethren who have not yet collected for the
Polonian Students, to collect for them, and to carrie it into the Synod.
It is recommended also to the brethren to collect for William Mackie,
who is recommended by the parliament.
1667] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 103
By reference from the Session of Leochell, William Paterson, who
hade been sentenced befor the said Session, to satisfie for frequent
absence from the ordinances on the Lord's day, is declared to be con
tumacious to the Session's sentence, and is ordained to be summoned to
the next day.
Mr. John Leslie desired his institution to the kirk of Cushnie to be
put in the record which was September 15, 1677.
The severall brethren were removed one by one to have privie censure,
and are approven, onely Mr. Robert Irving is exhorted to attend the
meetings of the Exercise better, and Mr. William Glass is admonished to
take heed to himself, and beware of keeping trysts in change houses,
wherby the enemies of the ministerie may be readie to take advantage
of bringing him under ane evil report.
The next meeting is appoynted to be the last of October, and Mr.
William Christie appoynted to exercise on the ordinarie matter of the
Exercise.
2d- October 1667.
This Presbiterie bulk of Alfurd approven be the Lord Bishop and
Synode.
Mr. Alex. Forbes, Clerk to the Synod of Abd.
Referrs of the Diocesian Assemblie of Abd., holden by ane Right
Reverend Father in God Patrick Bishop of Abd., and begunne October
first 1667 yeirs.
Session Ist Ante merediem Oct. I. — 67.
The rolls of the ministers' names was called, the absents notted,
visiters appoynted for the severall Presbiterie books.
Session 2'1- eodem die post merediem.
The books of Garioch and Deir were approven.
Session 3d- 2 Octr. ante merediem.
It was ordered that all expectants under tryals give evidence in
their knowledge of the Greek and Hebrew tongues, and that the
accompt therof be exprest in their respective recommendations.
Anent the scandall of murther committed in Alfoord parochin by
IO4
RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1667
John and Allastcr Forbess dwelling in the parochin of Strathdone, it
is ordered that they be processed thcrfor by their awin ministers.
The books of Alfoord, Aberdeen, and Turreff were approven.
Item, it is seriouslie recommended by the Lord Bishop and Synod,
that all' ministers who have not already collected in their severall
parochin Churches within this dioces, for help and support of William
Keith, sometyme in Garlogie, Agnes Chalmers, relict of Mr. Walter
Hempseid, and George Keith, sometyme in Loarstone, and the Polonian
Students, shall collect in their kirkcs for the forcnamed pcrsones, and
to deliver what they collect, with ane nott thcrof, to the pcrsones
particnlarlie after mentioned viz. : Mr. George Mcldrum to receive the
collections of Aberdeen Presbiterie, Mr. John Keith for Kinkairden,
Mr. Robert Irving for Alfoord, Mr. James Straquhan for Garioch, Mr.
William Meldrum for Turreff, Mr. William Stevenson for Fordyce,
Mr George Melvill for Ellon, and Mr. Alexander Gairden younger for
Deir, and all to be sent in to the said Mr. George Meldrum minister
at Aberdeen, betwixt this and the fifteenth day of Januarie next to come.
Session 4°. eodem die post merediem.
In obedience to the two Acts of Privy Counccll against papists and
quakers, presented by my Lord Bishop, and publicklie read befor the
Synod, it is ordered that cverie Presbiterie within this diocess, shall mee*
on the'sixteinth day of this instant, and take up ane exact account of all
papists and quakers within their bounds, and that everie moderator bring
ane account of them to the Lord Bishop, at the King's Colledge
Old Aberdeen, upon the last Tuesday of the said moneth of Octob
instant And to that effect, the Lord Bishop and Synod nominate and
appoynts the personcs after named to keep the said dyet the foresaid day,
the Principal of King's Colledge, and all the ministers of the tonnes of
New and Old Aberdeen for the Presbiterie of Aberdeen, Mr. Georg
Burnet and Mr. Robert Reid for the Presbiterie of Kinkairden, Mr.
Alexander Ross and Mr. James Straquhan for Garioch, Mr. George
Melvill and Mr. John Straquhan for Ellon, Mr. William Stevenson,
and Mr Alexander Seaton for Fordyce, Mr. William Jaffray yor. (if
hee be able to travel) and if not Mr. William Meldrum in his room,
and Mr Andrew Skein for Turreff, Mr. Adam Barclay and Mr. James
Gordoune for Alfoord, Mr. Gilbert Clerk and Mr. Alexander Gairden yor.
1667] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD.
105
for Deir. And that everie excommunicat papist, or anie of them whose
process is led ad sententiam, be summoned conformc to the particulare
precepts directed by the Lord Bishop theranent, and delivered to each
moderator, and the said precepts and executions therof to be reported at
the foresaid meeting, the said last Tuesday of October instant.
Item, it is ordered by the Lord Bishop and Synod that ane list be
given up by each minister of all persones living together as married
people within their parochins, and not publicklie knowcn to be lawfullie
married according- to the order of the Church, and how long they have
so lived.
The books of Fordyce, Kinkairden, and Ellon were approven.
Session 5°. 3d- October ante merediem.
Item, ordered that each burser student in Divinitie report yeirlie to
their respective Presbiteries, ane testimoniall from the Professors of
Divinitie, of their attendance and proficiencie, with certificatione, if
they faylzie they shall lose their benefice, and others setled therin.
Session 6°. Eodem die post merediem.
It is ordered that all ministers absent from the last Session of this
Synod be censured and rebuked by the moderators and brethren of
their owen respective Presbiteries, as they shall be given up in the
referres, and that their censures be recorded in the several Presbiterie
books, and reported to the next Synod.
Mr. Andrew Abercrombie, minister of Invernochtie, is suspended
from the ministeriall exercise, untill the last Tuesday of this instant
October, for his misbehaviour of late at the Rawes of Strathboggie,
untill that matter be further tryed. And Mr. George Watsone,
minister at Leochell, is appoynted to make intimation of the said
suspension to the congregation of Invernochtie, upon the thirteinth of
this instant, being the Lord's clay, and, dureing the suspension, the
Presbiterie of Alfoord is ordered to be carefull that his kirk be served
each Sabbath in preaching, marriage, and baptisme for the people in
that parochin, and the said Mr. Andrew was chairged apud acta to
compere befor the Lord Bishop, and the brethren who are to convein
with him, upon the said twentieth ninth of this instant October.
O
io6
RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1667
Item, the next Synod appoynted to meet and beginnc the third
Tuesday of Aprile next 1668.
(Here follow lists of fugitives from Discipline, Presbiterie of Ganc
Georn-e Forsyth and his spouse Elspet McCulloch for carrying away ane
unbaptized child from the parochin of Moniemusk, and four other
fugitives.
From Presbiterie of Dcir, 8 fugitives.)
At Alfoord October 16, 1667.
By particulare order from the Bishop and Synod, the dyet of the
Exercise haveing been changed to this day, Mr. William Christie exercis
on Romans 15. 13, and was approven.
The next dyet of meeting is appoynted to be November 14, and
William Burnet, Schoolmaster at Alfoord, being found by the brethren
to have carried himself piouslie and faithfullie in his calling, and havir
now resided amongst them about foure yeirs, thought it expedient to put
him to some tryall of his gifts, and therfore ordained him to have ane
common head, De perfection Scripture, against the said day.
Anent the book of Kinnethmount, the visiters reported that they had
visited the said book, and hade found i°. scarcitie of collections for the
poor 2° unfrequent administration of the communion, 3°. no
visiting of families, 4". no word of a preparatorie sermon befor the com
munion, 5°. no exact account of exacting penalties, 6". unfrequencie .
Session for a long time, and 7°. no pageing of the book, which being 1
to the said Mr. Robert his chairge, hee was seriouslie exhorte
these things.
Anent Mr Robert Dunbar, the matter is continued until the ref
the Synod come out, in regaird severall of the brethren reported that the
Bishop and Synod advysed that hee should be delt tenderlie with, whi
the brethren resolved to doe.
The brethren haveing received from the Bishop summondses
directed against the papists and quakers within their respective parishes,
were ordained to lay them on against the day convemec
summondses. . , .
It is reported that William Mitchell, elder in Alfoord, hath enterec
office of collecting for the poor.
1667] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD.
107
It is reported that some have collected for the Polonians, and given
the same, and the rest were exhorted to remember them.
It is lykwise recommended to the brethren that they remember
William Mackie.
In regaird to the minister of Strathdone his suspension from the
exercise of the ministeric for a tyme, the brethren ordered Mr. William
Christie to preach once there befor the next meeting.
It was reported by Mr. George Watsone, that hee had intimat the
suspension of Mr. Andrew Abercrombie, conforme to the ordinance.
[// cases of discipline}
At Alfoord November 14, 1667.
Mr. William Burnet hade ane common head, De perfectione Scrip
tures, and was approven, and his theses on the said head were distributed
to be disputed the next day.
The next meeting is appointed to be December 12.
The gentlemen of Strathdone viz. William Forbes of New, John
Forbes of Ladmakay &c., haveing been summoned, called, but not com-
peiring, are ordained to be summoned pro 3°.
The referrs of the Synod haveing come to the hands of the ministers,
and nothing being found therm anent Mr. Robert Dunbar, the brethren
resolved to forbear for awhile, till hee be delt with.
No report of the execution of the summondses against the papists,
&c. from Mr. James Ross and Mr. Robert Chein, in regaird of their
absence, but the brethren present reported that they hade obeyed the
ordinance.
The Polonians were again recommended to those who hade not
collected for them.
William Ritchie again recommended to the brethren who hade not
collected for him.
The said day, Mr. WTilliam Christie reported that he hade preached
at Strathdone, according to the ordinance.
Mr. Walter Ritchie and Mr. John Walker were appoynted to supplie
the vacancie at Alfoord befor next dyet of meeting.
[p cases of discipline}
IOS RECORDS OF THE MEETING [l66/
At Alfoord December 12, 1667.
Xo exercise nor discipline, in respect that the brethren hade received
ane order from the Bishop, for calling of ane edict (which was formerlie
served by Mr. John Walker at the Church of Alfoord unto that day^ in
the favores of Mr. George Forbes, minister for the tyrne of Inverleithen,
to the chairge and cure of the Church of Alfoord, which edict being-
called, appeared, Andrew Farquhar elder in the said parochin of Alfoord,
in name, and with commission from John Forbes of Balfluge, together
also with a great number of the people who gave in a protestation, sub-
scrybed by the hand of the forsaid John Forbes of Balfluge, and the
names of the rest of the elders of the Session of Alfoord and parishoners
who appeared, bearing some reasons wherfor the said Mr. George should
not be admitted to the cure and chairge of Alfoord, which reasons in the
said protestation are contained at length, protesting also that they might
have libertie in tynie and place convenient, if need were, to add more
reasones to their said protestation, and more subscriptiones, which the}1
obleidged themselves should to the triple exceed the number contained
in the protestation, declaring that, through the violence of the da}-, they
could not get conveined for the tvme, wheruoon thev took instruments in
O »• A -
the hands of a nottar publick. Appeared also Alexander Forbes in
Petfeichie, brother-german to the said Mr. George, protesting that the
pairties subscribent of the foresaid protestation, should be obliged to
make out the reasones therin contained sub pocnain caluuiniac, wherupon
hee also took instrument in the nottar's hand. The brethren haveing
heard the pairties did ordain that, according to the commission granted
to them by the Right Reverend Father in God, Patrick, Bishop of Aber
deen, a report therof should be made to his Lordship, conforme to the
tenor of the premisses, and that under the hands of the Moderator and
Clerk of the meeting, and sent to his Lordship, together with the protes
tation foresaid.
The next meeting is appoynted to be Januarie 16, 1668, and Mr.
William Burnet appoynted to sustain the dispute of his theses, conforme
to the former ordinance.
It is reported that Mr. Walter Ritchie and Mr. John Walker hade
obeyed the former ordinance, in supplieing the vacancie of Alfoord,
1 668] OK THE KXKRCrSK OK ALKORI). FCX)
and Mr. John Leslie and Mr. John Maire are appoynted to supplie the
same, against the next dyet of meeting.
At Alfoord Januarie 16, 1668.
Some of the brethren haveing mctt, by reason of the paucitie of their
number who did meet, and the want of the moderator (no vice moderator
being as yet appoynted) the brethren conveined for the tyme adjourned
the meeting to the jOth of this instant Januarie, and the forcsaid Mr.
William Burnet is ordained then to sustain his disputes.
At Alfoord Januarie 30, 1668.
Mr. William Burnct sustained his disputes De perfectione Scripture,
and was approver!.
The next meeting is appoynted to be Februarie 20, and Mr. William
Burnet ordained to have ane exercise on the ordinarie matter of the
Exercise.
The gentlemen of Strathdonc viz. : William Forbes of New, John
Forbes of Ladcmakay &c., not haveing been summoned yet pro 3".,
the former ordinance anent them is renewed, and they ordained to be
summoned pro 3".
Mr. Robert Chein reported that, according to the Bishop and Synod
their order, hee hade summoned the papists within his parish, and sent in
the executiones to Aberdeen.
The Polonians and William Mackie again recommended to the
brethren who have not collected for them.
It is reported that Mr. John Mairc and Mr. John Leslie hade supplied
the vacancic at Alfoord, and Mr. George Watsone and Mr. William Glass
appoynted to supplie the same against the next clay of meeting, and a
letter ordained to be sent to Mr. William Glass, being for the tyme
absent, for that effect.
Mr. John Maire haveing ane designation of faill and divott for him
and his successors, hee desired that the same might be insert and
registrat in the Presbiteriall records ad futuram rei memoriam, which
was ordered to be done as followeth, —
1 10 RECORDS OF THE MEETING
At Tough, the first clay of August, the yeir of God 1667 yeirs, the
said day by virtue of ane commission granted by the Right Reverend
Father in God, Patrick Lord Bishop of Aberdeen, in favours of Mr.
John Mairc, minister of Tough, for designation to him and his succes
sors of foggage, common pastorage, faill and divott, of the daits at
Aberdeen, the tenth day of Julie, in the yeir of God 1667 yeirs,
conveined Mr. Adam Barclay, Minister at Keig, Mr. Walter Ritchie,
Minister at Forbes, and Mr. George Watsone, Minister at Leochell,
and passed to the Church at Tough, and to whom ane edict lawfullic
execute and indorsit, by Alexander Innes, servant to the said Mr. John
Mairc, was given in, chairgeing the whole heritores, parishioners, and
others haveing or pretending interest, to appear at the Kirk of Tough,
on the first day of Agust in the yeir foresaid, to hear and see the said
designation, who being thrice called, and no man appearing to alleadge
reason in the contrarie, the commissioners above named did proceed in
the bussincs, and haveing perambulated the neercst adjacent within
the said parochin, and finding no Church lands within anie competent
adjacencie, wherout off the said Minister and his successors could be
served to the effect foresaid, save onelie the lands of Kirktoune of
Tough, and Endurnoes, did therfor designe, and by these presents doe
appoynt and designe the said Mr. John, present Minister at Tough,
and his successors Ministers there, to be served in all tyme comeing in
foggage, common pastorage, faill, and divott, upon the neerest adjacent
ground suitable for that purpose, of the said lands of Kirktoune of
Tough, and Endurnoes, where they can find that they can be most
commodiouslie served, with free issue, and enterie, conforme to the
Act of Parliament made theranent.
In witnes wherof these premisses, written by the foresaid Mr. George
Watsone, are subscrybed by the said Commissioners hands, day, place,
and yeir of God above written, before these witnesses James Reid in
Endurnoes and the foresaid Alexander Innes.
Sic subscribitur
Sic subscribitur by the witnesses Mr. Adam Barclay
James Reid, Witness. Mr. Walter Ritchie
Alexander Innes, Witness. Mr. George Watsone.
[p cases of discipline}
1 668] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. Ill
At Alfoord Februarie 20, 1668.
Mr. William Burnet exercised on Romans 15. 4, and was approven.
The next meeting was appoynted to be at Alfoord March 12, and
Mr. William Burnet appoynted to have a populare sermone on i Peter
2. II.
The gentlemen of Strathdone not being as yet summoned, the former
ordinance is renewed.
The Polonians and William Mackie again recommended to the
brethren.
It is reported that Mr. George Watsone hade not as yet supplied
Alfoord, his dyet haveing been supplied by ane other, and that Mr.
William Glass was not able to keep by reason of sickness, and therfor
Mr. William Christie and Mr. George Watsone are ordained to supplie
the vacancie at that place befor the next meeting.
By reference from the Session of Towie, a literall summons lawfullie
execute and indorsit was given in against Alexander Innes of Sinnahard,
who haveing been delait to the said Session for contumacie, drunknes,
and dishaunting of the ordinances, and particularlie for ane contumacious
contempt of the worship of God at his owen Church, on the second day
of Februarie, being the Lord's day, upon which day, in face of the
congregation, conveined for the service and worship of God, at the verie
tyme when the minister was entering the Church (haveing ridden doune
the water side from the parish of Glenbucket), hee rod hard by his owen
Church stile homewards to his owen son's (haveing by a servant called
for some keyis from his wife, who was for the tyme in the Church, and
deserted the worship, to the great scandall of the congregation) ; As
lykwise hee, by the offence committed by him on the first Lord's day
of Januarie, in that hee came from ane tavern in another parochin, to
the parochin of Keig, and there, with some companie, entered another
tavern within less than ane quarter of mile to the Church of Keig, and
drank there till the worship was begunne, and, in tyme therof, did pass
from the said tavern hard by the Church stile to another tavern, within
ane bow shott to the Church, where hee stayed the rest of the day, and
night following ; and haveing proven contumacious to the said Session,
was called, who compeired, and by his confession was convict in maner
112 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [l668
following, to witt, he confessed that he came by the Church of Towie
whilst the people were gathering to the Church, and was at no Church
that day, as lykwise that hee came by the Church of Keig, and was at
no sermon that day, onclie hee denyed that hee drank in tyme of sermon,
or anie thing cxtraordinarely. Hee is summoned apud acta to compeir
again befor the brethren of the Presbiterie at Alfoord, the next dyet
of their meeting, which is to be March 12, and Mr. Adam Barclay is
ordained to chairge witnesses from the parochin of Keig, to bear
tcstimonie what was his deportment there, the first Lord's day of
Januarie.
[10 cases of discipline}
At Alfoord March 12, 1668.
Mr. William Burnet gave ane populare sermon on I Peter 2. 11, and
was approven, and hee is ordained to sustain his questionarie tryals, and
of the languages at the next meeting, which was appoynted to be the 2d-
of Aprile.
A literall summonds lawfullie execute and indorsit was given in
against William Forbes of New, John Forbes of Ladmakay, and
Robert Andersone, in Lochane, who being called, compeired not, and
being found contumacious are ordained to be summoned to the next
insuing Assemblie.
The Polonians and William Mackie again recommended to the
brethren.
Mr. George Watsone and Mr. William Christie reported that they
hade preached at Alfoord according to the appoyntment, and Mr.
Andrew Abercrombie ordained to preach befor the next dyet of
meeting, at the said place.
Alexander Innes being called, compeired, as lykwise compeired
witnesses chairgit from the parochin of Keig viz. William Davidsone,
Elspet Andersone, Isobel Wallace, John Jamisone, and Arthure
Jamisone, to bear testimonie on the matter of the scandalous carriage
of the said Alexander upon the first Lord's day of Januarie, against
whom the said Alexander declairing that hee hade no exception, they
were sworne in his presence, and depouned as followeth viz. William
OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. H3
Davidsonc dcpouncd that Alexander Innes, and some others with him,
came upon the Lord's day, in the morning, to the boat of Keig, and
called to cause sett on ane fire in the said William his chamber, but
did immediatlie hurrie from thence to James Jamisone's, whither the
said William (havcing something to speak with William Forbes of
Skclliter who was there) went up to them, and that he found them
there drinking, and saw them drinking healths, and left them drinking
when hec came to the Church, and that, after sermon, when hee came
home to his owin son's (being also a change hous) hce found them
there, but that they hade received no drink there, in regaird that hee
and his wife were both at Church, but that hee found them lying upon
beds when hce came home.
Elspet Andersone, servant to the said William Davidsonc, depouned,
that shee being at home, Alexander Innes, and those with him, came
to the said William his hous, after the people were in church, and that
shee judged him drunk when hee came in, but that havcing called for
drink hee found none, in regaird her mistress was in the Church.
Isobell Wallace, wife to James Jamisone, depouned that when hee
came to her hous, being unacquainted with the said Alexander his
temper, shee could not know whether hee was drunk or not, and that
hee, with a considerable number with him, drank nine pints of aile,
and that shee saw them drink ane health, and that when they called
for more shee declaired there was no more aile in her hous, wherupon,
one of them haveing searched the bowies, and finding no more, they
begane to remove out of the hous, but that they lingered awhile 'about
the hous, and then went away, but shee herself being alone to keep
the hous went not to church, so could not tell whether sermon was
begune or not when they removed from the toune.
John Jamisone depouned that hee saw the said Alexander, with
those who were with him, in that hous befor sermon, and that, calling
for more drink, one of them searched the bowies, but found none, bu*t
hce knew not when they removed, in respect hee stayed not long, but
came to sermon and left them there. Arthure Jamisone depouned
that hee came to that hous, but entered not in companie with them,
and knew not when they removed, being in Church when they went
by.
P
114 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [l668
The brethren, haveing considered the premisses, found the said
Alexander guiltie of ane high and scandalous profanation of the
Lord's day, and contempt of the ordinances, abandoning the place of
publick worship, and traversing from tavern to tavern ; and lykwise
takeing to consideration the notorietie of his customarie drunknes,
wherto severall of themselves could sufficientlie bear witnes ; as
lykwise takeing to consideration when that, at the first day of his
appearance, hee came befor the Presbiterie, being in his cups, and
behaved himself most insolentlie, proudlie, and contumaciouslie, with
his head still covered when hee spoke to the moderator and brethren,
and accompanying almost everie sentence with horrid oaths, and his
accustomed expression of his vowing to God, and spoke to his owin
minister in most reproachfull terms, giveing him ordinarelie the com-
pellation of Robin the Ranter; and that being severall tymes exhorted
to forbear his swearing and curseing, hee still insisted, and used many
more scurrilous, undervalueing, and threatning expressiones, telling us
hee would appeal to the Bishop, and then bid us all hang ourselves ;
and that being inquired, why hee did dishaunt ordinances, answered
that hee would keep the Church when hee pleased, and forbear when
hee pleased ; as lykwise that, at the second day of his appearance, his
deportment was after the same maner, refuseing to stand with ane
discovered head, notwithstanding that hee was admonished, whou hee
ought to behave himself befor a judicatorie, useing the same reproach-
full speeches towards his owin minister as formerly, and the same
insolent carriage towards the brethren of the Presbiterie ; therfor did
ordain that (notwithstanding his guiltines deserved a verie high
measure of censure) hee should onelie be admonished by the modera
tor to forbear his drunknes, swearing, and contempt of the ordinances,
and should repaire to his owin church, and there, in presence of the
congregation, upon the Lord's day, in the publick place of repentance,
should manifest ane humble sense of his sinne, and, after his satisfac-
tione, the same to be intimat from the pulpit of Keig, for takeing away
of the scandall there, and in caice of disobedience hee should be
processed. Which sentence when it was intimat unto him, hee did so
contemne, that he declared hee should first sitt doune befor the whole
parochin, and (indecent expression), and did appeal, pretending we
were partiall judges. But the brethren considering, that in crimine
1 668] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 115
notorio, appellatio non sit admittenda, the minister is ordained, in caice
of his contumacie, to goe on in process with him.
It being found that William Forbes of Skellitcr, Donald Farquhar-
sone, and some others, in the parochin of Strathdone, were in companie
with the said Alexander Inncs, the said first Sabbath of Januarie, in
the parochin of Keig, and so were guiltie with him in that scandall, it
is ordained that the minister of Strathdone should search for the rest
of these persones, and should bring them to satisfaction.
[// cases of discipline^
At Alfoord, Aprile 2, 1668.
Mr. William Eurnet sustained his questionarie tryals, and his tryall
in the languages of Greek and Hebrew, and was approven. And the
Presbiterie considering all the pairts of his tryals, and haveing found
sufficient satisfaction therm, and being hopefull that, through the
blessing of the Lord, hee shall prove ane able instrument for God's
glorie in his church, ordained that hee should be recommended to the
Bishop for giveing him license to preach publicklie when and wher
hee should be lawfullie called therunto.
The next dyet of meeting is appoynted to be the 2Oth of May.
The Polonians and William Mackie again recommended to the
brethren.
Mr. Andrew Abercrombie reported that hee hade supplied Alfoord,
and Mr. Robert Irving ordained to supplie that vacancie against the
next meeting.
It is reported that Alexander Innes of Sinnahard, not haveing
obeyed the former ordinance, and continueing contumacious, was
publicklie admonished pro i°., March 22.
It was lykwise reported that, immediatlie after the former meeting
at Alfoord, while the brethren were gone out to take some refreshment,
the said Alexander Innes behaved himself verie insolentlie, in intrudeing
upon the companie with ranting songs, and expressiones, and particu-
larlie two or three brethren reported, that while Mr. John Walker told
him that the brethren hade delt with him in the spirit of meeknes, hee,
in their hearing, answered the said Mr. John, that, by the wounds of
Il6 RECORDS OF THE MEETINC. [1668
God, he was a Her ; as lykwi.se, after the minister of Towie and the
minister of Strathdonc hade removed, hee could not be restrained by
some gentlemen who were in his companic, from pursueing after the
minister of Towie, with all speed, whom, when hce overtoke, hee
abused with contumelious and reproachfull speeches, accompanied with
manie oaths, and laid hold on his bridle, and menaced with manie
provoking speeches.
In reference to the premisses, the moderator produced ane letter
from the Bishop, declaiming that all further process in that bussincs
be delayed till the appeal be judged, and the matter be heard by him
and the Synod. Wherupon the brethren referred the whole procedor
to be cognosced and considered by the insuing Synod, and to be
advysecl therby what course they shall take for the future in such
cases, when flagitious persones studie to stop their process by appeals.
Mr. Andrew Abercrombie reported that hee hade spoken with
William Forbes of Skelliter and Donald Farquharsone, who hade
promised to give satisfaction to their Session.
It is ordered, that after William Forbes of Skelliter and Donald
Farquharsone shall give satisfaction of their breach of Sabbath unto
the Session of Strathdone, Mr. Andrew Abercrombie shall report the
same to Mr. Adam Barclay, that hee may report it to his people in
Keig to whom the scandall was first given.
It being found that the Church of Cabrach was vacant now, by
the removall of Mr. James Ross to Tarlan and Migvie, the heriteres
and others of Cabrach did present ane supplication to the brethren for
supplie of the vacancie of that place, till the Lord should provide ane
minister of their owen for them.
Ane letter \vas presented to the brethren, from the Bishop, showing
that hee hade received ane presentation from the Earle of Marre, in
favour of Mr. John Irving, Student of Divinitie, for his instalemcnt
in the parochin of Cabrach to the cure, and chairge therof, and therfor
desired that the brethren should enter him to his tryals, in reference
to the said place, in all convenient diligence, which the brethren, con
sidering, in obedience to the said order, did ordain the said Mr. John
to have ane common head, De locis sanctorum defunctorutn, against
the appoynted tyme of their meeting, and that hee should distribute
his theses theron at the assemblie, and lykwise hee was ordered to
1 668] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. I I/
preach once, or if he could twice, at the Church of Cabrach befor the
next meeting.
Referrs being read anent the referrs relating to Alexander and John
Forbess alleadgit murthcrers, it is found that the church of Alfoord,
wher the fact is alleadgit to be committed, is yet vacant, so that no
process against them can be intended until the plantation of that
Church.
The privie censure was past, and the severall brethren haveing
removed one by one were censured and approven.
Mr. William Burnet was appoynted Clerk to the Presbiterie.
\_io cases of discipline]
Jo. Maire, Clerk to the meeting of the Exercise.
At the Kingis Colledge in Old Aberdeen 8 October 1668.
Session 4"' post mercdiem.
The discipline of this Prcsbiterie, from October 1667 till the following
Synod in Apryle 1668, is visited and approven by the Bishop and Synod,
excepting process of Alexander Innes of Sinnahard, which is to be
rectified according to the Act past by the Bishop and brethren of the
respective Presbiteries, conveined at Alfoord May 12, 1668, for cogni
tion of the said process, which Act is ordered to be transmitted with
the referris of this Synod, and insert in the Presbiterie book of Alfoord.
Mr. Al. Forbes, Clerk to the Synod of Abd.
Referrcs of the Diocesian Assemblie of Aberdeen, holden by ane
Right Reverend Father in God, Patrick Bishop of Aberdeen, and
begunne the twentie ane of Appryle 1668.
Session i°. ante merediem.
After sermon and prayer hade by the Lord Bishop, the roll of the
ministers names was called, the absents notted, and divers appoynted
for the severall Presbiterie books, the Presbiterie of Turreff not beini>;
o
present.
Sess. 2". eodem die post merediem.
The books of Aberdeen, Kincardine, and Fordice were approven.
IlS RECORDS OF TIIK MEETING [1668
Sess: 3°. Aprylc 22, Ante merecliem.
Concerning the Presbiteric Book of Alfoord, the visiters of the said
book represented that there was ane process therin ledd against
Alexander Tnnes of Sinnahard for severall scandalls mentioned in the
said process, and the said Alexander his miscarriages befor the said
Presbiterie, and to divers brethren therof, and the said Alexander hade
appealed from the said Presbiterie to the Bishop, the Bishop also
declareing that hee hade received ane letter from the said Alexander
Innes, shewing as for the present hee was valetudinarie and unable to
travell, and therfore desireing to be excused for not appeiring before his
Lordship and the Synod. The Bishop therupon, with advice of the
Synod, ordained that two brethren from everie one of the Presbiteries
viz. for Aberdeen Mr. James Gordone, and Mr. Robert Raynold ; for
Kincardine Mr. Robert Reid, and Mr. John Keith ; for Garioch Mr.
Alexander Ross, and Mr. James Straquhan ; for Fordicc Mr. William
Thomsone and Mr. Alexander Seatone at Banff; for Deir Mr. Alexander
Gardin and Mr. Gilbert Clark ; for Turiff Mr. Andrew Skeen, and Mr.
William Meldrum ; for Ellon Mr. John Straquhan and Mr. George
Melville at Udny, shall meet with him at the Kirk of Alfoord, upon
Tuesday the 12 day of May next to come, by ten o'clock in the fornoone,
for cognosceing upon the said process, and judging the grounds of the
said Alexander his appeall, and that summonses be issued forth for
charging the said Alexander to appear befor the Bishop and fornamed
brethren, the said clay, to hear and see the said process and grounds
of his appeall cognosced and judged, as lykwise appoynted the mod
erator and remnant brethren of the Presbiterie of Alfoord to be
present the said day and place, for the caus above written.
The further accompt of the visiters' diligence and censure of the
Presbiterie book of Alfoord is continued till the meeting of the next
Synod.
Anent supplicants for charitable supplie, the former hail acts in their
favours are renewed untill such tyme as they receive supplie from everie
parochin who have not yet remembered them, and in particulare George
Keith, sometyme in Loarstone, is recommended to the Presbiterie of
Ellon as befor, and to the rest of the Presbiteries within the Dioces
who have not yet contributed the charitie for him.
1 668] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 1 19
The meeting of the next Synod is appoynted to be the first Tuesday
of October next to come 1668.
(Fugitives from discipline — names. 8 from different parishes.)
Deficients in payments of the Clerk and Officer's dues within the
Presbiterie of Alfoord.
Mr. William Glass deficient in May 1666.
Mr. Robert Irving for the said Assemblie May 1666, and this last
Assemblie.
Mr. John Leslie deficient the last Assemblie and this.
Mr. Andrew Abercrombie rests this last Assemblie.
Mr. William Christie deficient the last two Assemblies.
Mr. Adam Barclay deficient October Assemblie.
Mr. William Davidsone deficient all preceeding Assemblies.
Mr. Walter Ritchie deficient May 1666, Apryl 1667, and the last
Assemblie.
Mr. Robert Dunbar deficient May 1666, and this last Assemblie.
Mr. Robert Chein rests the said last Assemblie.
At Alfoord May 20, 1668.
Severall brethren haveing mett did adjourn the meeting of the
Presbiterie to June third, in regard the place of meeting was taken up
with a great confluence of people, gathered together to the Sheriff Court
which was sitting there for the tyme.
Alfoord June 3, 1668.
Mr. William Burnet, Schoolmaster at Alfoord, conforme to the former
appoyntment, acted Clerk and took his oath de fideli administrations.
There was no exercise by reason of John Irving his absence.
The next meeting is appoynted to be June 24, and the exercise to be
upon Mr. John Irving, according to the former appointment.
It is reported that Mr. William Burnet, Student of Divinity, supplied
Alfoord in Mr. Robert Irving his vice.
In reference to the scandall of Alexander Innes, in respect that by
the Bishop and brethren mett at Alfoord May 12, for the discussing of
120 RECORDS OF THE MEETING
his appeal!, it was injoincd that the said Alexander should mak satis
faction by appearing befor the pulpits of Keig and Towic, in face of the
respective congregationes, upon some Lord's dayes betwixt and the last
of June instant.
The minister of Kcig dcsyred to be advised by the Presbiterie how
hee should carrie as to the accepting the said Alexander his satisfactione,
in regard that by ane emergencie since, in the toun of Lochell, hee did
bewray that hee was continueing in his sinne of customarie swearing and
o
drunkenness, haveing come thither on the twentie second of May, and
being drunk, brok out in abominable cursing, frequently in his speeches
upon the wounds of God, and the devill take him, and singing a vile
prophane song. Wherupon the brethren thought it convenient, that
befor hee be received to satisfaction, there be a letter written by the
moderator to the Bishop, that they may receive his Lordship's mind
how to proceed in that business.
Anent William Forbes of Skelliter, and Donald Farquharsonc, it is
reported that they have satisfied the discipline of the Session of
Strathclone.
No report of the supplie of the Cabrach vacancie by Mr. John Irving,
in regard of his absence from this meeting.
All the brethren present declared that they hade observed the anni-
versarie of the 29 of May.
By reasone of a complaint given in by the Presbiterie officer, that
severall were deficient in paying to him those fees, wheras hee ought to
be satisfied off the delinquents in their parishes, it is ordained that everie
minister, the next Presbiterie day, immediately after the absolution of
everie delinquent, bring a shilling st. with them, otherwayes to pay it out
of their own purses.
The refcrrs of the Synod were read and recommended.
[12 cases of discipline]
At Alfoord June 24, 1668.
Mr. John Irving handled the controversie De locis sanctorum defunc-
torum, and sustained his disputes theron, and hee was approven. It is
appoynted that hee have the Exercise and Addition upon Romans 15. 5,
as his next poynt of tryall, at the next meeting at Alfoord July 15.
1 668] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 121
The Moderator reported, that, conforme to the former ordinance,
hce hade sent ane letter with Mr. John Mair to the Bishop, and
looked for ane return befor this tyme, but in regard neither Mr. John
Mair was returned, neither any answer come to his hands, and the
brethren being confident that Mr. John Maire would be come against
the next dyet, resolved to wave the bussines of Alexander Inncs till
that tyme.
Mr. John Irving reported that hee hade supplied Cabrache's vacancie
twice since his first engagement.
By reference from the Sessions of Kildrummie and Auchindore,
compeired William Ker, and John Guy for the scandall of profanation
of the Lord's day, upon (blank) day of Apryle, by a strugle in the church
of Kildrummie, as lykwise the said John Guy and James Cook for
strugling and beating one another the same day, in the parish of
Auchindore, the said persones are all cited apud acta to be present at
the next Presbiterie, and witnesses to be summoned as they are given
up by them both without exception viz. Francis Hair in Brux, Robert
Reid in Ley, John Bruce in the Denn, George Forbes in Culfork,
Arthure Lumsden in Clova, William Gunan in Neither Kildrummie,
James Shirrer in Mossat, and Alexander Shirrer in Auchinleith to
whose deposition alone, the said John Guy and James Cook referres
the whole bussiness.
Mr. John Irving is ordained to supplie Cabrach, once betwixt and
the next meeting.
[p cases of discipline}
At Alfoord July 15, 1668.
Mr. John Irving exercised on Romans 15. 5, and was approven. It is
appoynted that hee have a popular sermon on Matthew 11. 28, and sus
tain his questionarie tryals, and tryall of the Languages, at the next
dyet, which is appoynted to be August 12.
Anent the matter of Alexander Innes, it is reported by the moderator
that hee has received no return from the Bishop, and therfor the brethren
have continued him to the next meeting.
Anent the scandall of William Ker, John Guy and James Cook, com-
peared the forsaid persones, together with Francis Mair, Robert Reid,
Q
122 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1668
and Alexander Shirrer, witnesses in the forsaid scandalls, being admitted
by the parties, were sworn, and by the dcpositiones of Francis Mair, and
Robert Reid, the said William Ker was vindicated, in respect that,
according to his master's command who hade given him order to keep
his dask from being possessed by any upon the Lord's day, except by
such as had his warrand, he had onlie desyred the said John Guy to
remove from the said dask, and the said John Guy was convict, as
having, upon that desyre, made in ane hostill way for a duck against the
said William, professing hee would sitt there who should say the con-
trarie, and did afterwards pull his own sword belt from his shoulders,
and throw it to the other side of the church, and took his sword loose in
his hand after a threatening manner, and went and traversed the church
yard in ane insolent way, and in the afternoon went, in contempt of the
said William, to the ground of Drumnahoov, and sett up props and
danced about them in a bravading and provocking manner ; as lykwise,
by the depositione of Alexander Shirrer, to whose sole depositione both
the forsaid John Guy and James Cook did referr their scandall com
mitted the said day, in the parish of Auchendore, the said James Cook
was vindicat, and the said John Guy was convict of prophanation of the
Sabbath, by drinking from ane hour befor sun-setting to midnight, and
by wounding the said James Cook. Wherupon it is ordained that he
satisfie in the church of Kildrummie in sacco, and pay ten marks to the
session of Kildrummie, and that he satisfie after the same manner at the
church of Auchindore, under pain of process, and the minister of Clat
ordained to process him, till he report ane testimoniall of his satis-
factione.
The said Mr. John Irving reported that he had supplied Cabraches
vacancie, and ordained yet once to supplie before and the next dyet.
[// cases of discipline]
At Alfoord August 12, 1668.
Mr. John Irving gave his populare sermon, Matthew n. 28, sustained
his questionarie tryall and tryals of the languages, and was approven.
The next meeting is appoynted to be September 9, Mr. John Mair to
exercise on the ordinarie place of the Exercise.
1668] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORI). 123
Ancnt the mater of Alexander Innes, Mr. John Mair stated that he
had delivered the moderator his letter to the Bishop, but had received no
return, and therfor it is continued till the Bishop send his return.
Ancnt the mater of John Guy, the minister of Kildrummic reported
that he had not as yet obeyed the former ordinance of the Presbiterie,
wherupon the minister of Clatt is again ordained to process him till he
obey.
Mr. John Irving reported that he had supplied Cabrach vacancie, and
is ordained to supplie yet once, betwixt this and the next meeting.
The Presbiterie taking to their consideration the frequencie of rapt,
and particularly within the bounds of this Presbiterie, how that many
were accessorie to the violent taking away of women, and either forceing
them to follie or to marriage, thought fitt to referr the same to the Synod,
to be advised what course shall be taken with such persones, and their
assistants and adherents, as were guiltie therof.
Mr. John Irving having finished his tryals, in order to his admission
to the ministrie of Cabrach, the Presbiterie, taking to their consideration
the whole poynts of his tryals, did find themselves considerably satisfied
theranent, so that they resolved to grant him a testimonie and recom
mendation to the Bishop, in order to his ordination.
[75 cases of discipline}
At Alfoord September 9, 1668.
Mr. John Mair exercised Romans 15. 6, and was approven, and Mr.
Andrew Abercrombie ordained to exercise on the ordinarie mater of
exercise at the next meeting, which is to be upon the 28 of October at
Touch.
The mater of Alexander Innes continued ut supra.
No report of John Guy, the minister absent.
No report of the supplie of Cabrach, Mr. John Irving being absent
By reference from the Session of Lochell, Adam Miln and Jean
Andersone, husband and wiff, being delait of contumacie to the sen
tence of the said Session, for cursing and beating one another, on the
Lord's day, to be summoned to the next dyet pro 2°.
Mr. Adam Barclay, Minister at Keig, gave in his designation of
124 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1668
faill and divot, which he had off the lands within the parish of Kcig,
designed for him and his successors, he desyred that it might be
insert and registrat in the Presbitcrie Records ad futuram rei niemo-
riam, and which was ordered to be done as followes —
(NOTE. — The " designation" is not inserted, as two pages — 105 and 106 — seem to be awanting.)
Referres of the Diocesian Assemblie holdcn at Aberdeen, by ane
Right Reverend Father in God, Patrick, Bishop of Aberdeen, and begun
the sixt of October 1668.
October sixt Sess : I", post meredicm.
The roll of the ministers names was called, the absents netted, the
Presbiterie books of Garioch, Deir, Kincardin, Alfoord, Fordice, and
Ellon were presented to the Synod, brethren appoynted to visit the
same, and report to the Bishop and Synod.
The Bishop did, in face of the Synod, produce severall processes of
excommunicatione led by the respective Presbyteries against papists,
quakers, and scandalous persones, which processes he had considered and
approven, and accordingly given orders that the sentences of excom
munication passe against them, and for that effect, these processes were
delivered to the severall moderators. But because none of these processes
are against persones within the Presbyterie of Alfoord, they are not here
set down, yet the act concludes thus, As it is recommended to the
severall moderators and Presbyteries to be carefull, that the sentences
against these persones respective within their bounds, be with all con-
veniencie orderly executed by the ministers in whose pariochines the
processe was led, and for that effect, it is ordered, that publick intimation
be made, the Lord's day precceding, that, next Sabbath, the sentence of
excommunicatione is to be pronounced against such a persone, and this
intimation to be made, both in the parioch churches where the processe
was led, and also where the persones to be excommunicat doth reside.
It is appoynted by the Bishop and Synod, that there be ane uniforme
order for carrieing on processe against scandalous persones that prove
obstinate, and for that effect, when any persone under scandall is delait,
in a particular session, if (being thrice lawfullie cited), he doe not appear,
he is to be declared contumax by the Session, and the processe extracted
1 668] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD.
125
and exhibited by the minister to the Presbyterie, who are therupon to
issue out summonds against the said pcrsones, befor whom, if (being thrice
lawfullie cited), he do not appear, the Presbyterie then are to declare him
contumax, and theraftcr, order three public admonitiones to be given him,
and after them that he be thrice publickly prayed for, and that the whole
steps of the processe, after it is exhibited to the Presbyterie, shall be
carried on by the Presbyterie's order, unto whom the minister shall report
his diligence at each meeting, whilst the processe is going on, and accord
ingly be appoynted by them to proceed, and when the whole processe is
closed and extracted, that it be read in face of the Presbyterie, and being
approven that the moderator subscribe it, and therafter transmitt it to
the Bishop. And withall, it is declared that, if anie persone appearing
befor the Sessionc or Presbyterie respectively, shall be convict of scandall,
and, being accordingly censured, shall refuse to submitt to their respective
sentences, for removeing the scandall, in this case he is holden to be
contumax, and accordingly proceeded against as is above ordered. But,
if the persone so appearing and convict doe not judiciallie refuse, but yet
postponeth the obeying of the sentence, in that case one citatione more to
be given him litera scripta, with certifkatione that, if he compeir not and
give obedience, he shall be declared contumax, wherin if he failzie he is to
be declared contumax, by the respective judicatories, and accordingly
proceeded against.
October 7, Sess : 2". ante merediem.
The Bishop and Synod doe ordaine that oaths of purgation, in cases
of scandall, be not herafter taken by any ministers of" this diocie, in
their privat Sessiones, or befor the congregationes, untill they have first
advised with their respective Presbyteries, and received their order ther-
anent.
It is ordered that the books of the severall Presbyteries be subscribed
after this by the respecive moderators, or clerks, befor they be sent to
the Bishop, or Synod.
The moderators of the severall Presbyteries were put in mynd to be
carefull, in going about the examination of the Session books within
their respective bounds, conforme to the former acts made theranent.
Item the said day, because it is needfull that uniformitie be keeped in
executing the censure of excomunicatione, therfor it is ordained by the
126 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [l668
Bishop and Synod, that (untill a more generall forme be ordered by the
Church of this Kingdome) the following forme of excomunicatione be
used and observed in this Synod against apostats to poperie, quakerisme,
and other scandalous obstinat persones respectively, that the Lord's
day on which their sentence is to be pronounced against any persone,
the minister, after prayer to God for directione, and assistance in the
work they are to be about, shall then speak to the congregatione as
follows.
A forme of excomunicatione to be pronounced against such papists
whose processes are closed and approven—
It is not unknown to you who are here present, that our Lord Jesus
Christ, the King and lawgiver of his church, hath, in his blessed Word,
commanded us to withdraw ourselves from evrie professed member of
the church who walketh disorderly, as the Apostle Paul shcweth us,
2 Thess. 3. 6, and for that effect hath impowered the governors of the
church to reject and cast out from the comunion and fellowship of the
faithfull such as, after lawfull admonitione and due meanes (according
to his appoyntment) used for their reclaiming, doth notwithstanding
continue obstinately in their sinfull and scandalous walking, contrarie
to the wayes of truth, holliness, and peace, according to that of our
Saviour in the 18 of Matth. v. 17, 18 (he that neglecteth to hear the
Church, let him be to you as ane heathen and publican, verily I say unto
you, whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, &c.)
And now forasmuch as A. B. hath fallen off from the truth of God, and
unitie of the church, unto the errors and schism of poprie, and being
convict therof, hath according to the law of Jesus Christ, been frequently
admonished therof, and earnestly prayed for, and his repentance long
and patiently expected, but as after these meanes used hath not been
prevailed with, but yet continues obstinat, without any obedience, or
signs of his true repentance, to the great ^dishonour of God, and offence
of his people, therfor, it is ordained by the Bishop, our Ordinarie, and
the brethren of our Presbyteries, that the dreadfull sentence of excomu
nicatione be pronounced this day in this place against him, by the
minister there officiating, and, in obedience to the order, I doe, in the
name of the great God, and by the authoritie of his sone, our Lord Jesus
Christ, the glorious head of his church, excommunicat the said A. B.
1668] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 127
from the comunione of the church, and reject him from the priviledges
and fellowship of the faithfull, leaving him bound to the judgment of
the Lord, till he give sufficient evidence of his repentance, and reconcile
himself to the church, requiring you and all Christian people, according
to the comandment of Christ, to avoid the said persone, and have no
company with him, that he may be ashamed, untill he be again reconciled
to the church, as he would not incurr the displeasure of God, and censure
of the church, which, upon such as therein transgress, shall be inflicted.
Let the prayer accompanieing the sentence be to this effect —
That God, who has appoynted this terrible sentence, for removeing
of offences, and reduceing of obstinate sinners, would make this his
ordinance effectuall to all these holy ends, for which He hath appoynted
it, that this retaining of the offender's sin and shutting him out of the
church, may fill him with fear and shame, break his obstinat heart, and
be the meanes to recover him from the power of the divill, that he may
yet be saved, that others also may be stricken with fear, and not dare to
sin, so presumptuouslie, and all such corrupt leaven being purged out of
the church, which is the house of God, Jesus Christ may take delight to
dwell in the midst therof.
A form of excomunicatione to be pronounced against such quakers,
whose processes are closed and approven.
It is not unknown to you who are here present, that our Lord Jesus
Christ, the King and lawgiver of his church, hath, in his blessed Word,
comanded us to withdraw ourselves from evrie professed member of the
church that walketh dissorderly, as the apostle Paul sheweth us 2 Thess.
3. 6, and for that effect hath empowered us the governours of the church
to reject and cast out, from the comunione and fellowship of the faithfull,
such as, after lawfull admonitione, and due meanes, according to his
appoyntment, used for their reclayming, doe notwithstanding continue
obstinately in their sinfull and scandalous walking, contrarie to the
wayes of truth and holliness, and peace, according to that of our Saviour,
Matthew 18. 17, 18, he that neglecteth to hear the church, let him be
unto you as ane heathen and publican, verily I say unto you, that
whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and what
soever ye shall lose on earth shall be losed in heaven. And now,
128 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1668
inasmuch as A. B. hath fallen off from the truth of God, and unitie of
the Church, unto the pernicious errors and unchristian practices of that
late risen sect comonlie called quakers, particularly in slighting and
revyling the public ordinances of God, and being convict therof, has,
according to the lawes of Christ, been frequentlie admonished therof,
and earnestly prayed for, and his repentance long and patiently expected,
but, after all these mcanes used, hath not been prevailed with, but con-
tinueth obstinat, without any sign or evidence his true repentance, to
the great dishonour of God, and offence of his people, and therfor, it is
ordered by the Bishop, our Ordinarie, and the brethren of our Presby-
terie, that the dreaclfull sentence of cxcomunicatione be pronounced
this day, and in this place against him, by the minister there officiating,
and, in obedience to this order, I doe, in the name of the great God, and
by the authoritie of his sone, our Lord Jesus Christ, excomunicat the
said A. B. from the comunion of the Church &c. — ut supra.
The forme of prayer accompanieing the sentence to be ut supra.
A forme of cxcomunicatione to be pronounced against such as
refuse to submitt themselves to the discipline of the church, for removing
the scandall of some grosse offences, after their processe is closed and
approven.
It is not unknown to you who arc here present, that our Lord Jesus
Christ, the King and lawgiver of his church, hath, in his blessed Word,
comanded us to withdraw ourselves from evrie professed member of the
church that walketh disorderly, as the Apostle Paul sheweth us 2 Thess.
3. 6, and for that effect hath also impowered us, the governours of the
church, to reject and cast out from the comunione and fellowship of
the faithfull, such as, after lawfull admonitione, and due means, according
to his appoyntment, used for their reclayming, doe notwithstanding, con
tinue obstinately in their sinfull and scandalous walking, contrarie to the
wayes of truth and holliness, according to that of our Saviour, Matthew
1 8. 17, 1 8, he that neglecteth to hear the church let him be unto you &c.
and now forasmuch as A. B. has fallen into the grosse sin of (heir
mention the scandall) and, being convict therof, has, according to the
lawes of Christ, been frequently admonished therof, earnestly prayed for,
and his repentance long and patiently expected but, after all these means
1 668] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD.
129
used, hath not been prevailed with to submitt to the discipline of the
church, for removing the said scandall, but yet continues obstinat, without
any evidence or signe of his true repentance for his sinne, and contempt
of the church, to the great dishonour of God, and offence of his people,
and therfor it is ordained by the Bishop, our Ordinarie, and brethren of
the Presbyterie, that the dreadful sentence of excomunicatione be pro
nounced this day, in this place, against him by the minister officiating in
this place. In obedience to his order, I doe, in the name of the Great
God, and by the authentic of his sone, our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious
head of his church, excomunicat the said A. B. from the comunione of the
church &c. ut supra.
The prayer accompanieing this sentence to be ut supra.
Sess : 3°. eodem die post merediem.
Anent the murther of James Lowrance, within the parish of Deskford,
supposed to be comitted by Georg and John Chalmers, who have, upon
the murther, left their own houses, it is ordered that the ministers of that
dyocie mak public intimatione, that the said Georg and John Chalmers
be not receipt within any of their parishes, as also the minister of Desk-
ford is appoynted to keep back from the sacrament of the Lord's Supper
all that are suspect of accessione to the said murther, till they be cleared
of the said scandall.
Wheras some brethren desyred to be resolved what course they
should tak with men slayers who had obtained ane remissione and are
living peacably in their parishes within this dyocie, the Bishop and
Synod ordaines, that such pcrsones shall remove the scandall in sac-
cloath within the parishes wher the slaughter was comitted.
It is ordered that the Presbyteries and ministers within the several!
parishes, tak diligent notice of all such as shall be found to converse
scandalously with excomunicat persones, and to be carcfull to censure
them according to their guilt.
Concerning reference from the Presbyterie of Aberdeen, what shall
be done anent the pronouncing the sentence of excomunicatione against
scandalous obstinat persones, who, being therfore procest, are fugitiv
befor, or absent the tym of the close of their processe, the judgment of
the Bishop and Synod for the present is, that the pronouncing of the
R
I30 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1668
sentence be delayed for some considerable tym, till tryall be made
whether the fugitives be living or not, and for that effect their names to
be given to the respective Presbyteries, and this to continue till the next
Synod, at which Synod the case of fugitives is to be taken to further
consideratione.
October 8, Sess : 4°. Ante mercdiem.
In regard it hath been the custom heretofore, in some processes, to
goe on in proccsse against persones, after they had appeallecl from them,
and befor the appeall be cognosced and judged ; therfor, for preventing
the lyk, and ordcring.thc maters of appeall that shall happen in all tymes
coming, within this diode, (untill a more general! course be prescribed by
the church theranent) the Bishop doth give order and power to the
respective Presbyteries to tak cognitione of, and cognosce, and judg such
appealls as are made from the ministers, and particulare Sessiones within
their bounds ; and when any pcrsone shall appeall from the Presbyterie
to the Bishop, it is appoynted that the moderator of the Presbyterie shall
acquaint the Bishop therwith, and that the Presbyterie desyst from any
further processe against the said persone, untill they have received further
order from the Bishop theranent ; And because some scandalous persones
may tak occasion to appeall from Sessions or Presbyteries upon frivolous
reasons, and without any just ground, merely to stop and delay the
processe from going on against them, therfor it is appoynted and
ordained also, that if any persone shall be found (upon the cognoscing of
his appeall respective) to have appcalled without any just ground as said
is, there shall be, according to the nature and qualitic of the offence,
some further degree added to the censure befor inflicted upon him.
It being represented to the Synod that there hath been unmarried
women surprysed and carried away violently, by men, especially of the
Highland countery, under pretence to marrie them, and lykwise that
there are frequent disorderly marriages, contrarie to the order and
authorized custom of the Church, to the great offence of God, and
scandall of Christian people, therfor, for curbing and restraining these
enormities (in so fair as it concernes the ecclesiastical censure) the
Lord Bishop and Synod doe ordain, that ministers tak diligent notice
in their respective bounds of such scandalous persones, and that, who
soever, after tryall, shall be convict of having violently carried away any
1668] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFOR1). 131
unmarried woman, shall be censured in order to remove the scandall,
in the same manor, in all things as is injoyned unto adulterers, albeit
he should afterwards extort or procure the woman's consent to marric
him ; and if it be found that the woman carried away hath been privie
unto the same, and in collusione with the man, without the knowledge
and consent of her parents, in that caice that the woman be censured
in lyk manor as the man. And also it is ordained, that all such persones
as shall be found to have had accession to the said scandalous violence,
by conveying and assisting such a man in carrieing away of the woman
as said is, shall be injoyned to remove the scandall in saccloath, but for
the number of the dayes of the publick appearance, that it be at the
minister's discretion, to be ordered by them, according as the persones
shall be found more or less guiltie of accession to the sin, and the persones
so censured to be processed with excomunicationc, in caicc of their dis
obedience in not satisfieing as respective ordained. It is lykwise ordained
that such persones as do cohabit together, pretending they are married
by popish preists, shall be processed till they instruct their marriage by
wittnesses, and being instructed shall mak public acknowledgment of
their sin of disorderly marrieing, in face of the congregatione, otherwayes
to be processed, as also other persones who cohabit together as married,
alledging that they have privately plighted faith one to another, but is
found that there was no intimatione of their purpose to the congregatione,
nor the marriage solemnized, or blessed by any minister, these persones
shall be censured as fornicators, and be processed as conversing in
uncleanness, ay and whil they scparat ane from another, and when
they have removed the scandall, as is appoynted, that they be lawfully
married, according to the order of the church. In lyk manor, where
two unmarried persones come befor the minister in privat or publick,
dcclareing they tak others as husband and wiffc, and doe presently
cohabit together, and will not wait the public proclamatione of their
purpose to the congregatione, or solemninazione by the minister according
to the order of the church, it is ordained that such as are thus guiltie
for transgressing for the tym that is bygone, shall mak their publick
appearance in their own parish church, and there, in presence of the
minister and congregatione, confess and crav God and the congregatione
forgivness for their sin, and therupon receive the orderly blissing to their
marriage from the minister, but withall to mak publick intimatione.
I32 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1668
Lykas it is also appoyntcd by the Bishop and Synod, that all such
as shall be found to contraveen the order of the church in tym to come,
after the publicatione of this Act, shall be censured as fornicators, and
processed, in caice of their disobedience. And further, it is recomended
to the moderators and Presbyteries of Alford, Kincardin, Fordyce, and
Garioch that publick intimatione be made heiroff in such congregationes
within their respective bounds as they shall judg needfull.
Scss : 5 . eodem die post mcrcdiem.
Anent the Presbyterie book of Alfoord, the discipline thcroff from the
sixteenth of October 1667 till the following Synod in Apryll 1668 is
visited and approven by the Bishop and Synod, excepting the process of
Alexander Innes of Sinnahard, which is to be rectified according to the
Act past by the Bishop and brethren of the respective Presbitries, con-
vcencd at Alfoord the twelv of May 1668, for cognitione of the said
processe, which Act was accordingly read this day in presence of the
Synod, and is ordered to be transmitted with the refers of this Synod, to
be insert in the Presbitrie book of Alfoord, the tenor wheroff followes —
At the Kirk of Alfoord 12 May, 1668.
Conformc to the Act of the Synod, mett at the King's Colledge Kirk,
in Old Aberdeen, the 23 day of Apryll last, the Bishop and brethren of
the severall Presbitries within this diocie being conveened at the said
kirk, for cognosceing the processe of the Presbitrie of Alfoord, led against
Alexander Innes of Sinnahard, and judgeing the grounds and reasones
of the said Alexander his appeall from the said Presbitrie to the Bishop.
After prayer unto God for directione and assistance, Mr. Robert
Reynold was chosen Clerk, and made faith de fideli administratione.
The roll of the brethren appoynted to meet here this day being called,
non were absent except Mr. William Meldrum, Mr. Gilbert Clerk, and
Mr. James Straquhan. Alexander Innes of Sinnahard being lawfully
cited to this meeting, and called, compeired, the moderator and brethren
of the Presbitrie of Alfoord also appeareing, the process against the said
Alexander, as it was recorded in the register of the said Presbytrie, was
first read, as also the reasones and grounds of the said Alexander his
1 668] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 133
appeal!, together with the answer given by the moderator and brethren
of the said Presbytrie to the said reasones in lyk maner produced and
read ; and both parties being heard at length what they had further to
alledge for themselves respectivelie, anent the premisses, and therafter re
moved, the Bishop and brethren present, after matur deliberatione and
consideratione had of the whole mater, doc find first that the grounds given
by the said Alexander Inncs, in his appeall, are not sufficient or relevant,
and therfor voice it as to the reasones allcdged male appellatum. But
withall, secondly, havcing considered the sentence of the said Presbytrie,
against the said Alexander, together with the grounds therof, as it stands in
their register, they find it male judicatum, because that, wheras the said
Alexander was convict befor them of diverse scandalls, and each of
these in severall places, namely ist, Sabbath-breaking in the Parish of
Keig, the first Lord's Day of Januarie last; 2nd, of scandalous rideing by
the Church styll of Towie (his own parish Church) upon the second of
Februarie last, being also Lord's day, when the people were conveening
to sermone, wherupon he was at no sermon that day, and 3rd of the grosse
miscariage in his disrespective insolent behaviour, when he appeared
befor the Presbytrie, Februarie the twentieth, and March the twelth, and
to divers brethren therof; yet the Presbytrie doth onlie ordain him, for
all these scandalls, to mak publick satisfaction, on the place of repentance,
in his own Parish Kirk of Towie ; which sentence is therefor judged
disproportioned to the grounds therof ; and withall, for the regular and
orderly removall of the foresaid scandalls, the Bishop, with the advyce of
the brethren, orclaines the said Alexander shall, for his Sabbath-breaking
in the parish of Keig, appear on some Lord's day betwixt and the last
of June nixt to come, befor the pulpit of Keig, in the presence of the
minister of the said parish and the congregationc then mett, and, accord
ing to the order of the Church, mak publick confessione of his sin of
Sabbath-breaking, and profess his repentance for the same ; 2nd ordaine
also that the lyk be done by him, and in the lyk maner, befor the pulpit
of Towie (within the tym above specified) for the sjandall befor men
tioned given there ; 3rd that for his miscariage to the Presbyterie and
brethren, he be appoynted presently, in presence of this meeting, to mak
ane humbl acknowledgment of the same, craveing Codes pardon therof,
and the brethren whom he had so much offended. Lykwise, Both parties
being called in, the judgment of the Bishop and brethren conveened was
134 RECORDS OF THE MEETING
intimated unto them; wherunto Alexander Inncs of Sinnahard submitted
himself, and presently acknowledged his sinfull rniscariage be for the
Presbytrie, and craved God and the brethren pardonc for the same.
Sic subscribitur,
Mr. Robert Reinold, Clerk.
Item, the discipline of the said Presbytrie book of Alfoord, for this
last half ycir, is also visited, and approven onlie.
Item, it is ordered by the Lord Bishop and Synod that pecuniarie
mulcts be imposed hereafter by Prcsbytries.
It being found that Alexander Inncs of Sinnahard has not yet
admitted the scandalls of his Sabbath breaking in the parishes of
Keig and Towie, as he was appoynted by the forsaid Act at Alfoord,
May 12"', and because of anc new emergent scandall wherof the said
Alexander is supposed guiltie, it is hence recommended to the moderator
and brethren of the said Exercise of Alfuird to go on in tryall of the
said scandall, and for that effect to call the said Alexander befor them,
and to make report as they shall find therin to the Bishop, and therafter
accordinglie proceed as they shall be ordered by him.
Item, anent Robert Cruikshank his supplicatione for supplie, it is
found that he has made his forsaid address to the Kirk-Sessione of
Aberdeen, and that some persones within that Presbytrie have
acknowledged him, and now he is recomended to the rest of the
said Presbytrie, and other Presbytries within this dyocie to supplie
him, who have not alreadie done the same.
Item, anent George Keith, sometyme in Loirstone, according to the
former recomendationes in the referrs, he is seriously recomended to the
Presbytrie of Ellon, for ordering him to be satisfied for his service at the
Kirk of Slaines, as also is recomended to the said Presbytrie of Ellon, and
all other Presbytries within this dyocie for supplie, who have not alreadie
supplied him.
Item, anent John Mathie, in the parish of Lochell, he is recomended
to all Presbytries and parishes within this dyocie, who have not alreadie
contributed for his help.
Item, anent Thomas Gordon, brother to the laird of Brachly, is
recomended to all parishes and Presbytries, who have not alreadie
supplied him.
1 668] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORI). 135
Item, anent Georg Crookshank, within the parish of Clunie, he is
recomended to all parishes and Presbytries within this dyocie, who
have not alrcadie supplied him.
The meeting of the nixt Synod is appoynted to be upon the third
Tuesday of Apryl nixt 1669.
(Fugitives from discipline
In Aberdeen Presbytery 6 — In Forge 6.)
At Touch October 28, 1668.
The brethren mett at Touch, by particular order from the Bishop, for
division of the Kirk. And by reason of the shortness of the day, and
importance of the present bussiness, the exercise was deferred to the nixt
day, appoynted to be at Alfoord, the twentieth-fyve of November.
It is ordered that Alexander Innes be sumoned to the nixt day, for
the late emergent scandall, and witnesses be sumoned therupon viz.
Mr. John Mair who was sumoned apud acta, and Mr. Georg Robertsone
ordered to be sumoned.
[77 cases of discipline}
The moderator and brethren of the Presbytrie of Alfoord being
conveened at the Presbyteriall meeting, Georg Wilsone of Finzeauch
presented a comission to them, from the Right Reverend Father in God,
Patrick, by the mercie of God Bishop of Aberdeen, warranding to passe
to the division of the kirk of Touch, among the severall heritors of the
said parish, for them and their tenants accomodation, for attending
the ordinances, and, in reference therto, presented also ane execution of
ane edict, lawfullie execut and endorsed, warning the wholl heritors, wod-
setters, livrenteirs, and all other parishioners, to compeir the said day, for
the effect forsaid. The which edict being called, compeired in name of
William master of Forbes, William Forbes of Camphell, and Elspet
Esplin, relict of William Forbes of Tilliforie, George and Patrick Leslies
of Kincragie, William Forbes of Camphell, and Agnes Dugatt, his mother-
in-law, for their own interests, Mr. Alexander and Patrick Farqrs of
Tonley, the said George WTilsone of Finzeauch, John Gordon of Hall-
head, and Archibald Reid of Endurno, who being called to give up their
136 RECORDS OK THE MEETING [l668
rents within the said parish, that they might have accomodation in the
church, proportionally therto. And the said rents being given up by
them, and casten, are, with uniforme consent, acknowledged to be as
followes viz. the rent of the said Air. Alexander and Patrick Farqrs of
Tonley, seventeen chalders, two bolls, one firlott, and two pecks ; the rent
of William Forbes of Camphell, and Agnes Dugatthis mother-in-law, eight
chalders, seven bolls, two pecks, and ane half; Gcorg and Patrick Leslies
of Kincragie, their rent eight chalders, six bolls, two firlotts, and half ane
peck ; William, master of Forbes, and Klspet Fsplin, their rent in the
Kirktoune of Touch and Tilliforic, four chalders, eleven bolls, three
firlotts, and half peck ; Archibald Reid of Endurno, his rent three
chalders, and six bolls ; John Gordon of Railhead, his rent of Ardgour,
one chalder, two bolls, and two pecks ; and Georg Wilsone of Finzeauch,
his rent of Meikl Abercatie three chalders, which rents being given up,
computed and acknowledged in manor forsaicl, the moderator and brethren
of the Presbytrie did proceed to measure the fabrick of the said kirk; and
found the same to be within the walls on both sides (beside the door,
pulpit, room for the minister's desk, which is designed to be betwixt the
west side of the door, and the foot of the pulpit, as it now stands, and the
gavells which, for narrowness of the church, could not be measured) four-
scor, seaven feet, and ane half, which, with consent of the hail forsaicl
heritors, was divided and proportioned as followes viz. there is appoynted
for the said Mr. Alexander and Patrick Farqrs of Tonley, their own dask,
from the east side of the door to the west bay of the window eastward, on
the south side, comprehending eight foot, eight inches of rule Scots
measour ; for Georg and Patrick Leslies of Kincragie, their dask, from
thence to the south east corner, comprehending six foot and six inches
of measour forsaicl ; for William Forbes of Camphell, and Agnes Dugat,
his mother-in-law, their dask from the north east corner to neir toward
the fifth couple numbering westward, comprehending eight foot measour
forsaid ; for the Master of Forbes, and Elspet Espline, their wholl pro
portion in the said kirk, from thence westward to neir towards the nynth
couple, comprehending eight foot, eight inches, quarter of inch, measour
forsaid ; to Georg Wilsone of Finzeauch, his dask from thence westward
on the north side ; to (blank) couple, comprehending three
foot ; for John Gordon of Hallhead, from thence westward one foot ; for
Archibald Reid of Endurno, his dask, from thence westward to the midst,
1 668] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 137
betwixt the twelth and thirteenth couples, comprehending three foot and
ane half, measour forsaid : from thence west for another dask to the said
Mr. Alexander and Patrick Farqrs of Tonley, to the midst, betwixt the
sixteenth and seventeenth couples, comprehending eight foot, six inches,
and ane half, measour forsaid ; for Archibald Reid his tenants, their seat,
from thence to betwixt the seventeenth and eighteenth couples, com
prehending two foot, nyn inches, and ane half ; for the said Mr.
Alexander and Patrick Farqrs their tenants, from thence to north
west corner, comprehending fyfteen foot, seven inches, and ane half ; for
Georg and Patrick Leslies of Kincragie their tenants, from the west side
of the pulpit, on the south side of the church westward, to near toward
the twentieth couple, comprehending nyn foot, five inches, three quarters
of ane inch, measour forsaid ; for William Forbes of Camphell, and
Agnes Dugat their tenants, from thence westward to the fourth jost
under the loft, comprehending eight foot, one inch, quarter of ane inch,
measour forsaid ; for John Gordon of Hallhead his tenants, from thence
westward to (blank) comprehending ten inches, and
ane half; for George Wilsone his tenants, from thence to the south west
corner, comprehending two foot, ten inches. With which division forsaid,
the wholl heritors rested satisfied. Furthermore the moderator and
brethren ordained that there should be left sufficient room in the midst
of the severall geavells for issue and entrie to the severall dasks in the
severall sides of the church, and the stool of repentance to be fixed upon
the midle of the forbreast of the loft, and ordained the severall heritors
to fill their rooms with decent and comodious dasks, cross seats or pewes,
betwixt and the second clay of August nixt, and intimation herof to be
made out of the pulpit, by the minister of the place, and (blank)
to be insert in the Presbytrie book ad futnrani rei memoriam.
At Alfoord October 25, 1668.
The brethren mett, and Mr. Andrew Abercrombie exercised on
Romans 15. 7, and was approven.
The nixt meeting is appoynted to be at Alfoord the twentieth third
December, and Mr. John Leslie, minister at Cushnie, ordained to
exercise.
s
I3g RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1669
Anent Alexander Innes, it is reported that he is sumoned pro i°.,
being called, but not compeiring, was ordained to be sumoned to the
nixt day pro 2°., and the witnesses lykwise.
[/p cases of discipline]
At Alfoord, December 23, 1668.
The brethren mett, and no exercise by rcasonc of the storminesse of
the morning, which hindered the brethren from tymous conveening ; the
exercise is continued till Januaric twentieth.
Anent Alexander Innes, the minister of Towie reported that he had
sent his officiar to sumond him litera scripta, but that he had menaced
him to keep it up through fear, wherfor it was not laid on. The Presby-
tric resolved to acquaint the Bishop therwith, with the first convenience.
\i8 cases of discipline}
At Alfoord, Januarie 2Oth, 1669.
The brethren mett, and no exercise, because of Mr. John Leslie his
absence, who was excused through sicknesse.
The nixt meeting is appoynted to be on Februarie 17, and Mr. John
Leslie be advertised to exercise, according to the former appoyntment.
Anent Alexander Innes, it is reported that the Bishop was not
acquainted, in respect that there was no conveniencie of occasion since
the last meeting, the brethren ordain Mr. Robert Irving to return the
Bishop his answer theranent, or ane execution of a sumonds against the
nixt day.
\i8 cases of discipline}
At Alfoord Feb. 17, 1669.
Mr John Leslie exercised on Romans 15. 8, and was approven. The
nixt meeting ordained to be at Alfoord March 17, and Mr. William
Burnett, Schoolmaster at Alfoord, ordained to handl that comon held
De satisfactione Christi.
1669] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 139
It being found that Mr. Robert Irving had not obeyed the former
ordinance anent Alexander Innes, the mater was delayed till the
brethren mctt with the Bishop at the Synod.
[16 cases of discipline}
At Alfoord March 17, 1669.
Mr. William Burnett handled the one part of that controversie De
satisfactione Christi, and appoynted to deliver the rest of it at the nixt
meeting to be keeped at Alfcord the 31 of March.
The said day, the matter anent Alexander Innes is continued
ut supra.
[75 cases of discipline}
At Alfoord March 31, 1669.
William Burnett, Schoolmaster at Alfoord, delivered the remainder
of the controversie De satisfactione CJiristi^ and was approven.
The appoyntment of the nixt meeting delayed till the brethren meet
at the Synod.
The matter of Alexander Innes ut supra.
There was a meeting appoynted to be at Alfoord for filling up the
book, the moderator, Mr. Adam Barclay, Mr. Georg Watsone, and Mr.
John Leslie ordained to meet for that effect.
The severall brethren present were removed one by one, and
censured, and nothing was found worthie of record.
Mr. Wl. Burnet, Clerk to the Presbyterie.
Kingis Colledge 6 Oct. 1669.
This Exercise buik of the discipline of Alfurd approven by the
Bishop and Synod.
Mr. Al. Forbes Clerk to the Synod.
Referres of the Diocesian Synod of Aberdeen, holden within the Kirk
RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1669
of the King's Collcdge, Old Aberdeen, by ane Right Reverend Father in
God, Patrick, Bishop of Aberdeen, and begun the twenty anc of Apryl
1669.
Sess. i°. post meridiem.
Certain personcs were nominat furth of cvrie Presbytrie, for meeting
with the Lord Bishop at the privie conference.
Item a proposition was made by the Bishop, ancnt the expedience
of ane fast and humiliatione throughout the wholl dyocie for defectione
of so many from the truth, to popric and quakerism, and for prophamtie
abounding in this part of the land, and for a blessing upon the seasor
the yeir, which is referred to further consideration at the nixt clyet.
Sess. 2°. 22 Apryl, ante meridiem.
The Bishop and Synod having again taken to consideration the
reference of the former dyet, ancnt the publick fast, did appoynt that
the second Wedensday of May nixt to come, being the twelth day
therof, shall be observed and kept as ane day of humiliatione throwout
the wholl congregationes within this cliocess, and ane draught of the
reasones therfor being publickly read, and allowed by the Bishop anc
Synod was delivered to the moderators of the severall Presbytnes, t
be comunicat to the respective brethren, that full intimation might 1
made therof in evrie congregatione, upon the Lord's day imediately
preceeding the said twelth clay of May nixt.
It beincr represented that the fearfull and damnabl pract
witchcraft a'nd charming is much abounding in all parts of the country,
it is therfor statut and ordained, that all who shall be found charmers
(if made out against them) shall be censured, conforme to the ordinance
and Act of the Synod anno 1663, and that consulters with witches am
charmers, and seekers of help from them, shall be censured, in maner
mentioned in the said Act, besid representatione therof
magistrat.
Anent privat censures in Presbytries, the Lord Bishop and
did appoynt that, at the second meeting for exercise, after evrie Synod,
the wholl brethren be censured, in the wholl Presbytries, and that
intimatione herof be made by the respective moderators, in evrie first
meetin" after each Synod, and the brethren warned to keep the said
1669] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 141
dyet carefullic ; as also that the moderators of the sevcrall Exercises
look well to it, that the ordinarie dyets of the meetings be punctuallie
kept by the brethren within their precincts, and that no brother's
excuse be admitted as relevant, who does not send it to the Presbytrie,
with anc accompt of his processes that are depending.
Sess. 3°. Apryl 23, ante merediem.
It is ordained that evrie minister within this diocess, give in to the
Clerk of the Synod ane list of the dead within the respective parodies
therof, the Clerk is to tak ane nott, and give in the same to the procr.
fiscall, othervvayes the deficient minister not to get the benefitt of the
former grant that is made concerning the ease to be enforced upon
them, anent the cost of their own and relicts testaments.
There being some flagrant reports of scandalous cariages of Mr.
William Jaffray, minister at Favie (Fyvie), and Mr. Andrew Abercrombie,
minister at Strathdone, the Bishop declared, in face of the Synod, that
he was resolved, betwixt and October nixt, to visit both these Churches,
and therfor ordered the brethren after named, out of the severall Prcs-
bytries, within this diocess viz. for Aberdeen, Mr. Reynold, and Mr.
James Gordone at Banchrie ; for Kincardine, Mr. Robert Reid, and
Mr. John Keith ; for Alfoord, Mr. Georg Mclvill, and Mr. Adam
Barclay, and Mr. Robert Irving ; for Garioch, Mr. James Straquhan,
Mr. William Garioch, and Mr. Alexander Rosse ; for Fordice, Mr.
William Steinsone, and Mr. William Burnet ; for Turreff, Mr. Andrew
Skeen, and Mr. William Meldfum, and Mr. Robert Innes ; for Deir,
Mr. Alexander Gordon, and Mr. James Muir ; for Ellon, Mr. John
Straquhan, and Mr. Georg Andersone, to meet with him in this place,
upon the second Tuesday of June nixt, being the eight day therof,
to prepare maters and lay down a way how these visitationes shall be
most convenientlie gone about.
The supplicatione given in by Mr. Paul Shaletti some tyme sen,
and now convert to the Christian faith, was publickly read and con
sidered, and the Synod ordered that he should have ane collectione
furth of evrie parish church, within this dyocesse, towards his present
mantinance and subsistence, for the reasones contained in the order
given out to evrie moderator theranent.1
1 Note 24.
142
RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1669
Item, the supplicationc for charitable supplic of David Johnstone,
sometym bailie of Old Aberdeen, Patrick Rossc in Coul, within the
Presbytrie of Kincardine, Margaret Gordon, brother's daughter to the
laird of Lesmore, in ane palsic, were considered and allowed, and licences
granted to them for seeking charitable help and supplic, within evrie
parish within this dyocess for supplieing their necessities, conforme to
their severall warrands under the clerks hands granted thcrancnt.
The first day of the nixt Synod is appoynted to be the first Tuesday
of October.
(List of fugitives from discipline viz.
From Aberdeen Presbytery 3. Alfoord i. Turriff I.
Excomunicat persones in Aberdeen, John Farquhar and Catharin
Blackball his spouse, John Abercrombie, James Ivetsone, Christian
Steven, and Marjorie Midltoune, these for poperic, and John Williamsone
for apostacie to quakerisme.)
Kings Collcdge Apryl 22, 1669.
The brethren being mett in the comoun school, appoynted their nixt
meeting to be at Alfoord, the nynteenth of May, and Mr. George
Watsone to exercise.
It was found that the brethren appoynted for filling up the book did
not meet, because of the clerk his absence.
At Alfoord May 19, 1669.
The brethren mett, and Mr. George Watsone exercised on Romans
15, 9, and was approven ; the nixt meeting appoynted to be at Alfoord
the 1 6th of June, and Mr. William Glass to exercise.
Mr. John Irving being yet absent, it is thought meet to advertise him
by a lyne of the next dyet, that he might keep the same, and answer for
his former absence.
The brethren present reported that they had observed the fast ap
poynted by the Bishop and Synod.
Mr. Adam Barclay reported that he had celebrated the sacrament of
the Lord's Super at Easter.
1669] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD.
143
Anent Alexander Innes, the processe is to goe on, and the Presbytrie
officiar is ordained to sumond him pro 2° litera scripta to the nixt dyet,
and the witnesses Mr. George Watsone, and Mr. John Mair appoynted to
be sumond also.
By reference from Towie, it was declared that a scandall of charming
and curing of cattell by unwarrantable means was comitted there, by the
persones after following viz. James Durie, Andrew Walker and his wife,
Isobell Dunbarr, William Reid, John Bandeen, James Gibbon in the
parish of Strathdone, and Alexander Greoshich ther, some wherof were
present. The Presbytrie considering the said mater, appoynted some of
their number to meet at the church of Towie, upon the third Tuesday of
June, for tryall and censure of the said bussinesse. The brethren ap
poynted to meet were the moderator, Mr. Adam Barclay, Mr. Robert
Irving, Mr. Walter Ritchie, and Mr. William Glasse. The persones
present were sumoned apud acta to keep the forsaid dyet, and the absents
ordained to be sumoned, and the ministers of the nixt parishes to sumond
witnesses to that effect.
Mr. Adam Gordon, son lawful 1 to Mr. James Gordon, sometym
parsone of Kinkell, is presented and admitted to the burse of Alfoord
and Turreff with unanimous consent of the brethren.
\i6 cases of discipline}
At Alfoord June 16, 1669.
The brethren mett, and Mr. William Glass, who was formerly ap
poynted to exercise, being valetudinarie, employed Mr. William Burnet,
Schoolmaster at Alfoord, to supplie his vice, who accordingly did exercise
on Romans 15. 10, n, 12, and was approver! ; the nixt meeting to be at
Alfoord the 14 of Julie, and Mr. Adam Barclay to exercise.
Mr. John Irving being present at this dyet was gravely admonished
for his former frequent absences, and promised to keep in tymes coming.
All the brethren present reported that they had keeped the 29 of
May, except Mr. John Irving, who confessed he had not keeped it.
Mr. John Leslie declared that he had celebrated the sacrament of the
Lord's Supper.
144 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1669
Anent Alexander Innes, the Presbytrie officiar refusing to sumond
him, because of violence offered and threatened, as he alledged, the
mater was delayed till the minister of the place should be present.
The brethren mett at Tovvie viz. Mr. Georg Melvill, moderator, Mr.
Walter Ritchie, and Mr. Robert Irving (the rest were found being absent).
After tryall and examination of parties and wittnesses in the said scandall
of unwarrantably cureing of cattell, did pass sentance in mancr following
viz. that John Bandeen, Andrew Walker, William Reid, Alexander
Greoshich, James Gibbon, being found guiltie of practiseing unwarrant-
abl cures of their cattell, were ordained to mak their publick appearance
befor their respective congregationes, at Towie and Strathdone, and
acknowledg their fault, and engadge to forbear from the lyk in all
tymes coming, under the payn of the highest censure ; and the
ministers of these Churches were ordained to discharg their peopl from
raising of needfyr (as they called it) practised by some of them in such
cases.
Compeircd two parishioners of Cabrach viz. Thomas Stuart and
Thomas Mackgillchrist, presenting a letter from the Earl of Aboyn,
together with another inclosed from the Bishop of Aberdeen to the
said Earl, wherin, it being shewed that ane complaint being given in
to the said Bishop against Mr. John Irving, minister at Cabrach, and
presented a libell subscribed with their hands, together with a list of
wittnesses for proving the said libell, which being read in the presence
of the said Mr. John, and he required to answer the samen, which libell
not being acknowledged by him in all the articles, he, together with
the parties accusers, were sumoned apud acta to appear at Alfoord the
nixt dyet of the Presbytrie, and the witnesses ordained to be sumoned,
and the Presbytrie being impowered to proceed therm, by virtue of ane
comission directed to them from their Ordinarie, the brethren accord
ingly issued out precepts for sumonding wittnesses, that they might try
the said mater, and report.
[75 cases of discipline]
At Alfoord July 14, 1669.
There was no exercise, nor calling the ordinarie referres, because of
the weightiness of the bussiness which concerned Mr. John Irving.
1669] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 145
Mr. Thomas Garden, son to Mr. Georg Garden, minister at Clatt, and
student of divinitie, presented a letter from the Bishop, recomending
him to his tryalls, in order to a conjunct ministrie with his father, and the
Presbyterie did accordingly prescribe to him ane popular sermon on Acts
4. 12, and ordained him to prepar his exegesis on that controversie, De
visibilitate Ecdesiae, vvherof he was to distribut theses at the nixt dyet, to
be July 28.
Thomas Stewart and Thomas Mackgillichrist insisting in the libell
formerly given in against Mr. John Irving, and eiking a second libell
subscribed with their hands, which being read in the presence of the
said Mr. John, and he required to answer to both, or except against the
wittnesses there present, and having given his answers to the severall
poynts of the libell, the wittnesses were admitted and sworn. Having
deponed in the said maters, and their depositiones being subscribed by
their hands, and the hands of a notar in their names, it was found that
the libell was not proven in all the heads therof concerning the scandalls
and ryots alledged to be done by the said Mr. John ; therfor the said Mr.
John was sumoned apud acta to compeir at the nixt dyet, in respect the
parties accusers demanded a competent tym to sumond their wittnesses,
and the said Mr. John clesyred to get copies of the libells, that he may
give his answers advisedly.
At Alfoord July 28, 1669.
The Presbytrie mett, and Mr. Thomas Garden taught popular doctrin
on Acts 4. 12, and distributed theses De visibilitate Ecclesiae, the sentance
of the brethren censuring his particular tryall was deferred till the last
tryall.
The nixt meeting appoynted to be at Alfoord August 25, and Mr.
Thomas Garden ordained to handl the controversie formerly prescribed,
and defend his theses.
Mr. George Watsone reported that he had celebrated the sacrament
of the Lord's Supper.
Nothing of Alexander Innes, the minister absent.
No report of the persones involved in the scandall of charming, the
ministers being absent.
T
146 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1669
Ancnt the libell given in by Thomas Stuart and Thomas Mackgili-
christ against Mr. John Irving, after that several! wittnesses were examined,
upon the poynts of both libells, all which being, by ane order from the
Bishop, to be reported to him, and because the brethren being about, the
examination of the cxceptiones given and made by Mr. John Irving
against some wittnesses, the forsaid accusers by their procurators Thomas
Urquhart and Patrick Gordon, bailie to the Lord Aboyn, declared that
they would insist no further in the said mater befor the Presbytrie, but
that they would pursue the alledged ryots before a more competent judg.
Therfor the Presbytrie referred the wholl mater to the Bishop of
Aberdeen, and the wholl libells and depositiones of the wittnesses in
the hands of the clerk to be delivered to him as he shall call for them.
[18 cases of discipline]
At Alfoord August 25, 1669.
Mr. Thomas Garden handled the controversie De insibilitate Ecclesicu,
and defended his theses.
The nixt meeting appoynted to be at Alfoord the 8 of September,
and Mr. Thomas Garden to undergoe his questionarie tryall of the
Languages, Hebrew and Greek, and Mr. Adam Barclay to exercise.
Anent Alexander Innes, the Presbytrie ofikiar having undertaken
conditionallie to sumond him, that is to say, that, if he should offer
violence, he should advertise the minister of Towie, who, in that caice,
did undertak to cause sumond him.
It is reported that John Bandeen, Andrew Walker, William Reid,
Alexander Greishich, and James Gibbon have satisfied in their respective
parishes the scandal! of charming, according to the ordinance of the
Presbytrie.
[/./ cases of discipline]
At Alfoord September 8, 1669.
The brethren mett, and Mr. Adam Barclay exercised on Romans
15. 13, and was approven. Mr. Thomas Garden sustained his question
arie tryall, and that of the Languages, and is appoynted to exercise
1669] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 147
and add on John 15. 14, the 29 of September, the tym of the nixt
meeting.
A sumonds executed and indorsed being given in by the officiar
against Alexander Innes, he being called, compeired not, and was
ordained to be sumoned pro 3°.
The referrs of last Assembly were read.
The privie censure lykwise past, and the severall brethren were
removed, and approver!.
It being found that some persones who are lawfullie and orderlie
married have their first children brought forth befor the ordinarie tym,
which is a presumption of their preposterous and scandalous conversa
tion bcfor their manage, concerning the punishment of which persones,
the Presbytrie clcsyres to receive the advice of the Bishop and Synod,
for preventing and punishing such unlawful! precepitationes.
It was appoynted that the moderator Mr. Adam Barclay, Mr. John
Mair, Mr. Walter Ritchie, Mr. Georg Watsone, and Mr. Robert Irving
should meet at Alfoord upon the fyftcenth day of September instant,
for filling up of the Presbytrie book.
[75 cases of discipline^
Mr. W. Burnet, Clerk to Presbytrie.
Kingis Colledge 6 October 1669.
This Exercise buik of Alfoorcl approven by the Bishop and Synod.
Mr. Alex. Forbes, Clerk to the Synod of Aberdeen.
At Alfoord September 29, 1669.
Mr. Thomas Garden exercised and added Romans 15. 14, and was
approven, and it being his last tryall the brethren revised the rest of his
tryalls, and found he had given satisfactione, therfor he was recomended
to the Lord Bishop. The appoyntment of the nixt meeting deferred till
the meeting at Aberdeen.
Mr. John Irving being questioned anent his former absences, declyned
to submitt to the sentence of the Presbytrie, whcrupon he was referred to
the Bishop and Synod, in that and other particulares mentioned.
148 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1669
Anent Alexander Innes, the officiar reported that, being at his house
he did beat him greivously for laying on ane sumonds upon him, affirm
ing that he should doe no less to any of the ministers who should come
on that errand. This was referred to the ensuing Synod.
The brethren commissionat for filling up the book, reported that they
had mett and filled it up.
[12 cases of discipline}
Referres of the Synod of Aberdeen holden by anc Right Reverend
Father in God, Patrick, Bishop of Aberdeen, at the King's Colledg in Old
Aberdeen, and begun the fyft of October 1669.
October 5 Sess: i° ante meridiem.
The said day, after sermon had by the Lord Bishop, in St. Machar's
Kirk in Old Aberdeen, the Brethren of the Synod did meet with the
Bishop at the said King's Colledg, and after incalling the name of God,
the names of the ministers were called, the absents notted, and visitors
appoynted for the severall Prcsbytrie books within this dyocie.
After representatione of severall bussinesses, it is ordered that the
Moderators of all the severall Exercises, and certain other brethren
then nominat, shall meet the nixt morning at eight o'clock with the
Bishop, and the whol Synod shall meet at ten hours, the said day, at
the place foresaid.
October 6th Sess : 2° post meridiem.
[2 cases of discipline]
October 7th Sess : 3° ante meridiem.
The Presbytrie book of Alfoord is approven.
It is ordered, anent charmers and consulters with witches, that the
former Act made in the last Synod be publickly intimat by evrie
minister within this dyocie, at their parish churches, and that the Act
made theranent, in December 1663, be also published in each church,
and accordingly put to executione against the delinquents, in maner
therin contained, viz. that all who shall be convict of charming shall
1669] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 149
be appoynted to remove the scandall therof publickly, befor the con-
gregatione in sackcloath, and that all who are heirafter convict of
consulting and seeking help from witches or charmers shall, in lyk
maner, remove the scandall in sackcloath, othervvayes be processed
with excomunicatione.
It is ordered that no minister shall on any termes presume to
marrie any persones, upon whatever pretext, in tym to come, upon
twyce proclamationes of their bands in one day, or within the dyets
of the ordinary proclamationes, without licence and order from the
Bishop.
The rest of the session was spent in examining the wittnesses, in
the process ledd befor the Presbytrie of Alfoord, against Mr. John
Irving, minister at Cabrach, wherupon the ordinance after specified
was established.
Sess : 4". eodern die. post meridiem.
Anent the processe depending befor the Presbytrie of Alfoord,
against Mr. John Irving, minister at Cabrach, it is ordained by the
Bishop and Synod that the Presbytrie of Alfoord, with Mr. Georg
Burnet, minister at Kincardin, and Mr. Robert Forbes, minister at
Coldstonc, shall meet, and hold a visitatione at the Kirk of Cabrach,
upon Wedensday the tent of November nixt, for trying what is not
clear by the processe alreadie led, and of the new emergent scandall since,
as also generally of the said Mr. John his life and conversation in the
ministrie, and Mr. John Leslie, minister at Cushnie, is ordained to preach
at the Kirk of Cabrach, upon the last Lord's day of October instant,
and then to mak public intimatione of the said visitatione to that
parish, and all persones concerned, that if they have anything to say
against the said Mr. John, they may then appear befor the Presbytrie,
and be heard therin ; and for this effect that anc edict be served by
the said Mr. John Leslie, at the Kirk, and returned to the Presbytrie,
duly execut and indorsed, and that ane precept be direct by the
Bishop to the moderator of Alfoord, for sumoncling such particular
persones to the said meeting, as did formerly appear on the said Mr.
John his process, but have not alreadie deponed therin, and what the
said brethren shall find therin to mak report to the Bishop therof.
150 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1669
There was no other thing done in this Synod wherin the Presbytrie of
Alfoord is concerned.
The nixt meeting of the Synod is appoynted to be the first Tuesday
of Apryl 1670.
(Fugitives from discipline^ 2 from Deskford parish, and 5 from
Aberdeen Presbytery.)
At Aberdeen October 6, 1669.
The brethren of the Exercise of Alfoord mett within the Colledg
Church, and appoynted their nixt meeting to be at Cabrach, for visiting
the said kirk, according to the ordinance of the Bishop and Synod, and
Mr. Walter Ritchie ordained to preach.
At Cabrach November 10, 1669.
There was no preaching, the day being short, and stormie, and fan-
spent. The brethren that conveened were the moderator, Mr. Walter
Ritchie, Mr. Robert Irving, Mr. John Mair, Mr. John Leslie, and Mr.
William Christie.
The Act of the Synod being read for visitatione of the said church,
and finding that the edict was served and sumondes executed according
to the order of the Bishop and Synod, the brethren did proceed in the
tryall of the said libells, allreadie given in against Mr. John Irving, and
visitatione of the said Mr. John as to his doctrin, disciplin, and conversa
tion, according to the comission granted to them for that effect, all which
the Clerk was ordained to transcribe in mundis, and have them in readi
ness against the Synod. The day being taken up with the said bussiness,
the brethren continued the referres till their nixt meeting at Alfoord,
December 8th.
[/ case of discipline}
At Alfoord Deer. 8th, 1669.
The brethren being late in conveening, and for the shortness of the
day, the exercise was continued this day also, and the nixt meeting
appoynted to be at Alfoord Januarie 12. The absents from Cabrach the
16/0] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 151
other day were excused, because of the stormincss of the day, and
length of the journey from the respective dwellings, only Mr. Andrew
Abercrombie alleadged that he mistook the dyet.
It was reported from the Bishop that Mr. Thomas Garden was
ordained Presbyter.
Alexander Innes of Sinnahard continued ut supra.
[16 cases of discipline}
At Alfoord Januarie 12, 1670.
Mr. Walter Ritchie exercised on Romans 14. 15, according to the
former ordinance, and was approven. The nixt meeting appoynted to
be this day moneth, and Mr. Thomas Garden to exercise and add.
The absents the former day excused, save only Mr. John Irving who
is continuing his absences. Mr. William Christie absent this day, and
Mr. William Glass.
Alexander Innes ut supra.
\I2 cases of discipline}
At Alfoord March 2, 1670.
It being found that the former dyet could not be kept, because of the
storminess of the weather, the brethren mett were excused, and Mr.
Thomas Garden exercised Romans 15. 16, and was approven. The nixt
meeting to be March 23, and Mr. John Walker to exercise and add.
Mr. William Christie excused for his last dayes absence, as also Mr.
William Glass, through his deadly weakness.
[9 cases of discipline}
At Alfoord March 23, 1670.
Mr. John Walker exercised and added on Romans 15. 17, 18, 19, and
was approven. The nixt meeting appoynted to be Apryl 6, and Mr.
Robert Irving to exercise and add.
[ij cases of discipline']
152 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [l6/O
At Alfoord Apryl 6, 1670.
The brethren mett, and the exercise was delayed, because of the
multiplicitie of affaires. The appoyntmcnt of the nixt meeting con
tinued till the brethren meet in Aberdeen.
It being found that Mr. John Irving had been ahvayes absent since
the last Synod, and refusing to submit to censure of his brethren, they
referred the same to be considered by the Bishop and Synod.
Alexander Innes refer continued ut supra.
The moderator, Mr. Robert Irving, and Mr. Adam Barclay reported
that they had celebrated the sacrament at Easter.
The minister of Kildrumie being dead, Alexander Ker, comissioner
from the parish, did desyre that ministers might be sent for that supplie,
and Mr. Walter Ritchie appoynted to go thither betwixt and the nixt
day.
The brethren being removed one by one, the privie censure past upon
all, except Mr. John Irving, who declyned as formerly ; he was referred
to the Bishop and Synod, and nothing was found that needed to be
recorded on the rest.
Mr. Georg Watsone, Mr. John Mair, and Mr. John Walker appoynted
to meet with the moderator and Clerk for visiting the minuts, and filling
up the book.
Mr. W. Bui-net, Clerk to the Presbytrie of Alfoord.
At the Kingis Colledge, Old Aberdeen 20 Aprilis 1670.
This Presbytrie buik of Alfurd approven by the Bishop and Synod.
Mr. Al. Forbes, Clerk to the Synod of Aberdeen.
Referres of the Synod of Aberdeen begun Apryl 21, 1670.
After sermon had by Mr. David Lyell of St. Nicholas Kirk, one of
the ministers of Aberdeen, in St. Machar's Kirk, the Lord Bishop and
brethren of the Synod mett, at the King's Colledg, and after incalling of
the name of God, the roll of the ministers names was cited, the absents
noted, and visitors appoynted for the the severall Presbytrie books.
1670] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 153
Scss : 2°. codem die post meridiem.
The books for discipline of the Presbytrics of Kincardin, Aberdeen,
and Alfoord were appro ven.
Sess : 3°. Ap. 22. Ante meridiem.
It is ordered that no minister admitt persones of neighbour congrega-
tiones to the benefit of the sacraments of baptisme and the Lord's Supper,
without ane recomendation from the minister of the parish where the
person resides, who craves the samcn, except in caice of indispensible
ncccssitie, and that evrie minister within the diocie mak intimatione
heirof from their pulpits with the first convenience, and that imediatly
befor the celebration of the holy comunion of the Lord's Supper, as often
as it shall be administered.
The Presbytrie books of Ellon, Turreff, Fordice, and Garioch were
appro ven.
Sess : 4°. eodem die post meridiem.
It is ordered that any processe pursued or to be pursued against
Alexander Innes of Sinahard, befor the Presbytrie of Alfoord, where he
leives, or any other church judicatorie, in caice he shall threaten or offer
violence to the officer who is to sumond him, and the samen being
proven and made out, his citation to any dyet from the pulpit, by the
minister after sermon, shall be sufficient.
The Lord Bishop produced befor the Synod ane Act of Privie
Councill, bearing dait at Edinburgh, the 13 day of Feb. 1670, wherby
the Lords of his Majesties Privie Councill did seriouslie recomend
to the Archbishops and Bishops within the kingdomc, to requir the
severall ministers within the respective diocesses, to tak up lists of all
the papists names within the respective parishes, who are known or
supposit to be papists, and who, upon the accompt of poprie, doe not
resort to the church and publick worship there, and to condescend upon
the particular designationes, qualities, and conditiones, and which of
them are in any publick office, and upon such as have been formerly of
the reformed religion, and made desertione, and return these lists to the
Archbishop or Bishop of the diocie under hands, that after consideration
therof, they may draw out ane exact list of all papists within the diocies,
U
154 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1670
condescending in manner above written, and report the samen subscribed
in their hands to the Councill, betwixt and the first day of June next, and
recomend to the Archbishop and Bishop to be careful 1 that such pcrsoncs,
as being formerly protestants have made departure to poprie, be proceeded
against, and in caice of their obstinacie censured with excomunication,
for the reason and ends contained in the said Act, as the same at more
length proports. For the more effectuall obedience of which Act, it is
ordered that ane full copie and doubl thcrof, be delivered to each
moderator of the sevcrall Presbytrics within this dyocie, and comunicat
by them to evrie minister, with the first convenience, and mak report of
their diligence therin to the respective moderators, and that they send
the samen to the Lord Bishop betwixt and the sixteenth day of May
nixt, and that evric minister deliver ane list of the papists to the modera
tors respective, to be sent tymously to the Bishop, wherthrough the
same may be sent to the Privie Conncill, befor the first day of June.
The Lord Bishop produced befor the Synod ane Act of the lait
parliament, of the date at Edinburgh the 23 of December 1669,
recomending the brough of Dundie to all Archbishops and Bishops,
and ministers of the gospell within the Kingdom, for a free and
voluntarie contribution to be collected and gathered for the help and
supplic of the said brugh, towards the reparation of the harbors and
bulwarks, through the great storm and tempest in October last, as in
the said Act at more length is contained, all which being publicklie read
and considered, the Lord Bishop and Synod did recomend the ministers
within this diocie, to mak intimation therof from their pulpits, upon ane
Lord's day after sermon, and earnestlie desyre the peopl to bestow
their charitie for supplie to make up the mines of the great losse that
brough hath sustained by that fearfull storm, and that evrie minister
exhort his peopl seriouslie to that effect, and deliver their collections
to their own severall moderators, and that the moderators give in ane
accompt of it, under their hands, to any having power from the said
brough of Dundie to receive the same.
Sess : 5°. 23 Ap. ante meridiem.
The Lord Bishop and Synod taking to their consideration the
mortificationes left to diverse churches within this diocie, and seeing
the books of the severall Exercises bear nothing of these, it is
1670] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORI). 155
ordained that, against the nixt Synod, the scverall brethren give in to
the moderators ane just accompt of the mortificationes within the
severall parishes, and whcr they are not cleir but debated, the
ministers arc appoyntecl to use their diligence for that effect, and
acquaint the Bishop therwith, that he may appoynt visitationes for
cleiring of them, as they shall find expedient, and that the moderators
transmitt ane just accompt of these mortificationes, or bring them with
them to the nixt Synod.
Memoranda ; it is to be remembred that all Moderators have in
readiness their collectioncs for Dundie, against the sixt day of June,
to be delivered upon demand to such as shall be comissioned by that
town.
At Aberdeen April 22.
The brethren mett in the Colledg church, and appoynted their nixt
dyet to be at Alfoord May 8, and Mr. Robert Irving, Minister of
Towie, ordained to exercise and add on Romans 15. 20, 21, 22, and 23
verses.
At Alfoord May 8, 1670.
The brethren of the Exercise mett, and, according to the former
appoyntment, Mr. Robert Irving did exercise and add, and was approven ;
the nixt meeting ordained to be June 15, and Mr. John Irving appoynted
to exercise and add.
The minister of Towie reported anent Alexander Innes that,
according to the ordinance of the Bishop and Synod, he had, as
ordained, to sumond him out of pulpit pro 3°., to compeir befor the
Presbytrie.
It was reported that Mr. Walter Ritchie had supplied the vacancie
of Kildrumie, for ane Lord's clay, according to the former ordinance,
and Mr. William Christie, and Mr. John Leslie are ordained to preach
at the Church of Kildrumie betwixt and the nixt day.
The book filled up according to the ordinance.
The Act of Parliament, in favour of the town of Dundie, for repairing
of the bulwark by means of ane charitable collection from the scverall
congrcgationcs, was rccomcnded to the brethren.
[12 cases of discipline}
1 56
RECORDS OF TIIK MEETING [1670
At Alfoord Junii 15, 1670.
The brethren mctt, and Mr. John Irving, who was formerly ordained
to exercise, declaring such multiplicitic of bu.ssiness wherabout he wa
employed, and promising to be rcaclic against the nixt day without
further delay, the Prcsbytrie admitting of this excuse did appoynt him de
novo to exercise and add, the nixt dyet to be Julie 6.
The minister of Towie reported that he had sumoned Alexan
Inncs pro 3°., being called compcired not, but the minister of the place
declaring that he had some hopes to bring him to a willingness to satisfie,
the Presbytrie did indulge the favour of sisting the process till the nixt
dyet.
The kirk of Kildrumie supplied according to the prior apj
and the peopl yet persisting in their supplication for help, Mr. Andrew
Abercrombie, minister at Strathdone, and Mr. William Burnet, Studc
of Divinitie at Alfoord, were appoynted to supplie the vacancie betwis
and the nixt clay.
There was a complaint given in by James and John Gordo
Thomas, Robert, and Alaster Stuarts, for violently removing
belonging to them, utering minaceing speeches on the Lord's day
defense of that deed ; the parties complaining ordained to give in ane
formall bill, and the minister of the place ordained to sumond the parl
complained upon, and such witnesses as shall be given up to him by the
said complayners, against the nixt day.
Mr. Thomas Garden declared that he was institnt minister at
which is ordained to be insert in the Presbytrie book.
The privie censure was past upon the severall brethren present.
[ij cases of discipline}
At Alfoord July 6, 1670.
Mr. John Irving, on whom the exercise yet lay, did excuse his
absence by reason of his wiffes and his sister's sickness at his house ;
the ordinance anent the exercise renewed, the nixt meeting appoynted
to be at Alfoord July 27.
There was no report of Alexander Innes.
l6/o] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 157
Mr. Andrew Abcrcrombie and Mr. William Burnct having- reported
that they had supplied Kildrumie, Mr. Georg Watsonc and Mr. Thomas
Garden were ordered to supplie betwixt and the nixt dyet.
Compcircd James and John Gordones, and presented their bills
subscribed with their hands, against Thomas, Robert, and Alaster
Stuarts in Cabrach, and the parties called upon compeiring, did avow
and own the removing of that dask, pretending a right to the room,
but denyed any minaceings, yet willing to submitt to the sentance of
the Presbytrie theranent. After due hearing of both parties, it was
ordained that the dask should be reponcd, and stand till the said
Thomas, Robert, and Alaster Stuarts should legally prove the room to
belong to them, and they were sharply rebuked for their disorderly
removing the same, unto which sentarfce they promised obedience.
Mr. Thomas Garden reported that he had celebrated the sacrament
on the 26 of June.
[10 cases of discipline}
At Alfoord July 27, 1670.
The brethren mett, and Mr. John Irving having exercised on Romans
15. 24, and he being censured for some imprudence, and want of exact
method of exercise and addition, was gravely admonished therfor ; the
nixt dyet appoynted to be August 17 at Alfoord, and Mr. Patrick
Coupland, ane Student of Divinitie, after his four yeirs comencement,
offering himself to tryall as ane Probationar, in order to his libertie of
preaching the gospell, had his first tryal prescribed him, to be ane
popular sermon on John 6. 37. Lykwise Mr. James Walker, brother
to Mr. John Walker minister at Tillinesle, and Student in Divinitie,
produceing sufficient testimonials from the Professor of Theologie at
Aberdeen, and also where he resided, and declaring his resolution to
abide at his brother's house within the bounds of this Presbytrie, and
that he did not abide at his sister's house within the bounds of the
Presbytrie of Garioch, desyring to be admitted to his tryalls, in order
to the opening of his mouth, had ane tryall prescribed him, to witt, to
handl that theme De objecto formali fidei imediately after the nixt
dyet, and to distribut his theses theranent the nixt day.
158 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1670
The ministers of Strath done, Towie, and Tillinesle were excused for
their absence the last day, but gravely admonished for not giving ane
accompt by lyn of their depending disciplin.
Anent Alexander Innes, the minister of Towic reporting that now he
had no ground of hope to prevail with him without process, he is ordained
to goe on with the process.
Mr. Gcorg Watsone and Mr. Thomas Garden having reported that
they had supplied Kildrumie, the Moderator and Mr. John Mair
ordained to supplie betwixt and the nixt dyet.
Compeired John Gordon in Cabrach, and declared that the sentancc
of the Presbytrie anent the dask was obeyed.
[12 cases of discipline}
At Alfoord August i;th, 1670.
Mr. Patrick Copland Student of Divinitie preached popular doctrin
on John vi. 37, and was aproven, and Mr. James Walker distribut his
theses, De objecto formali fidei, and he was appoynted and ordained to
be readie to deliver his Exegesis, and sustain his dispute the nixt day,
which was appoynted to be at Alfoord September 7.
It was reported by the minister of Towie that he had gone on no
further in process against Alexander Innes of Sinnahard, upon his
promise to compeir befor the Presbytrie this day, and answer as he
should be charged, and Mr. Robert Irving declaiming that he was readie
within the bodie of the church, only he desyred to know the guilt wherwith
he was to be charged, and it being told him that it was intemperance and
rash swearing, Mr. Robert Irving declared that he had prevailed so farr
with him, as to make confession and acknowledgment of his sinnes befor
him. The brethren considering the said mater did condescend so farr
(except only Mr. Adam Barclay who refused to vott in the bussiness) as
to accept of the said acknowledgment, and accordingly he compeired
befor the brethren, and confessed all the sinnes and offences against God,
all the dayes of his life, and particularly his offences done that day at
Lochcll, and being admonished and exhorted to a more watchfull and
Christian cariage in tym coming, which satisfactione whether it was suffi
cient to remove the scandall theranent was referred to the Bishop and
ensucing Synod, and the process to be sisted unto that tyme.
1670] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 159
The moderator and Mr. John Mair reported that they had supplied
Kildrumie two severall Lordes dayes ; Mr. Robert Irving and Mr. John
Walker to supplie nixt.
Mr. John Leslie declared that he had celebrated the sacrament
August ii.
Mr. Patrick Coupland had his theme prescribed to him De p er sever ant ia
sanctorum, and theses approven.
[12 cases of discipline}
At Alfoord September 7, 1670.
Mr. James Walker delivered his Exegesis De objecto formali fidei,
and sustained his dispute, and was approven, and Mr. Patrick Coupland
did distribut his theses De perseverantia sanctorum, and ordered to handl
the said controvcrsie the nixt day, September 21.
Alexander Innes ut supra.
Mr. Robert Irving and Mr. John Walker having supplied the vacancic
of Kildrumie, Mr. William Burnet appoynted to supplie once betwixt and
the nixt day.
The referrs of the last Synod read, and recomended to the brethren.
[p cases of discipline]
At Alfoord September 21, 1670.
Mr. Patrick Coupland handled the controversie formerly prescribed
to him, De perseverantia sanctorum, but because of the multiplicitie of
affairs the dispute was continued till the nixt dyet, the appoyntment
wherof was delayed till the meeting of the brethren in Aberdeen at
the Synod, and Mr. James Walker had ane popular text prescribed to
him, Romans iii. 20.
Alexander Innes ut supra.
The brethren who had collected for Dundie gave them in to the
Moderator.
Mr. John Mair, Mr. John Walker, Mr. Thomas Garden ordained to
meet and fill up the book.
Georg Melvil,
Moderator.
Mr. W. Burnet,
Clerk to the Presbytrie,
l6o RECORDS OF THE MEETING [l6/O
4 October 1670.
The Bishop and Synod, approves this Presbytrie bulk of Alfurd.
Mr. Al. Forbes, Clerk to the Synod of Aberdeen.
Referrcs from the Diocesian Synod of Aberdeen, bcgunc upon the
fourth of October 1670, holden by ane Right Reverend Father in
Patrick, Bishop of Aberdeen.
Sess: i°. 4 October 1670 ante meridiem.
After sermon had by the Bishop in the Church of St. Machar, and
incallino- the name of God, the roll of whol ministers names was call
the absents noted, and visitors appoyntcd for the books of
evric Presbytrie.
Scss: 2°. eodem die post meridiem.
The Presbytrie book of Alfoord, and sevcrall other books were
approven.
It is ordered that ane particular accompt be given in by evne
minister to their respective Presbyteries of the dyct<
brating of the Holy communion.
October 5 Sess: 3°. ante meridiem.
It is ordered that there be a contribution for supplic of the burning
of Kilmarnoch at evrie parish Kirk, conform to the Act and warrand
the Privie Councell, and that evrie Moderator have ane copie
said Act and that the Moderator deliver ane copy therof
minister, 'and that the severall collections be delivered by the ministers
to their severall Moderators, and sent in by them to Mr. David_Lyall
Minister in Aberdeen, and that betwixt and the first of Februan.
1671.
Eodem die Sess: 4°. post meridiem.
Anent Bursers of Divinitie, it is ordered that it be insert in each
Presbyterie Book twice in the yeir, betwixt Synods, who has satisfied •
Bursers, and who not, wherthrough their satisfaction, and who
may be represented at each Synod.
OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. l6l
It is ordered that wher any ministers shall faill to represent to their
Presbyteries the diligence of their discipline, the Moderators and remnant
brethren of that Presbyterie shall appoynt their Presbytcrie to be holden
at the Kirk wher such ministers shall be diffident.
It is ordered that Thomas Watt and Grizall Taylour, within the Parish
of Tyrie, be delated in all the referres as fugitives for incest and adulterie,
and if they shall return to their wonted residence, that they shall be
processed for satisfaction by admonition and prayer, and therafter that
the minister report to the Bishop.
It is ordered that evrie minister within this dyocess pay in to John
Ross, janitor at the King's Colledg, twelv shilling Scots money at each
Synod for the space of four Synods nixt insuing, begining for this present
Synod holden in October 1670, to be payed in to him befor the nixt
Synod to be holden in Apryl nixt, and that for this present Synod.
Anent the desyr for ane warrand to collect ane contribution for
bigging of ane brig at the Kirk of Towie, the granting thcrof is referred
to the nixt Synod, and, in the mean tym, it is appoynted and recomen-
ded to the Presbytrie of Alfoord to be going about that work as they think
meet.
The nixt Synod is appoynted to be at King's Colledg, Old Aberdeen,
the 3'' Tuesday of Apryl nixt 1671.
(List of 'fugitives from discipline from several parishes — 14.)
At Aberdeen October 5.
The brethren mctt within the King's Colledg of Old Aberdeen, and
appoynted their nixt meeting to be at Alfoord, the 26 of October, and
Mr. William Burnet, Schoolmaster at Alfoord, being presented to the
Church of Kildrumic, and recomended to tryalls by the Bishop, was
ordained to exercise, on the orclinarie mater of the Exercise, and the
young men desyred to prepare themselves for their nixt tryall, how
soon Mr. William Burnett his tryalls should be ended.
Alfoord October 26, 1670.
Mr. William Burnett exercised and added on Romans 15. 25, 26,
and was approven ; and he is appoynted for his nixt tryall to handl
1 62 RECORDS OF THE MEETINC, [l6/O
that controvcrsie DC formali causa justificationis, and defend theses
thcrupon, and sustain his qucstionarie tryall, and that of the Languages,
for which cause the brethren arc appoynted to meet more tymlie, and
the dyet appoynted to be at Alfoord November 16.
Mr. John Irving being present was rebuked for his last dayes absence.
Mr. John Walker reported that he had celebrated the sacrament.
The privie censure past on all present, and nothing was found worthy
of censure.
[ij cases of discipline}
Alfoord November 16, 1670.
Mr. William Burnet handled the controversic De formali causa
justificationis, sustained his theses, which he had distribut beforhand,
and did undergo his questionarie tryall, and tryall of Languages, and
because the brethren were sufficiently satisfied with his gift of preaching,
having had ocasion severall tymes to hear him, he was approver! in all,
and recomendcd to the Right Reverend the Bishop of Aberdeen for
ordination.
The nixt meeting is appoynted to be at Alfoord December 21, and
Mr. James Walker, Student of Divinitie, ordained to preach popular
doctrin on Revelation 3. 20, according to the former appoyntmcnt,
and Mr. Patrick Coupland, ordained to sustain his theses De persever-
antia sanctorum.
The disciplin was delayed, because the tym was spent in Mr. William
Burnett his tryalls.
Alfoord December 21, 1670.
Mr. James Walker preached popular doctrin on Revelation 3. 20,
and was approven, and is appoynted to sustain the questionarie tryalls,
and that of the Languages the nixt day ; lykas Mr. Patrick Coupland
his theses De perseverantia sanctorum, and ordained to exercise on
Romans 15. 28, 29 the nixt day, which was appoynted to be kept at
Alfoord Jan. 18.
Mr. Thomas Garden, Mr. Robert Irving, Mr. Adam Barclay, and
1671] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFOR1). 163
Mr. Andrew Abcrcrombie being present this clay, did undergo the
privie censure, and nothing found worthie of record, onlie Mr. Andrew
Abcrcrombie is exhorted to be watchfull, and put to sheam those that
are apt to speak evil of him.
[/,/ cases of discipline}
Alfoord Januarie 28, 1671.
Mr. Patrick Coupland exercised and added on Romans 15. 28, 29,
and was approven ; Mr. James Walker sustained his questionarie
tryall, and that of the Languages, Hebrew and Greek, and was
approven ; and Mr. Patrick Coupland was appoynted to sustain his
questionarie tryall, and that of the Languages, and Mr. James
ordained to exercise and add on Romans 15. 30, the nixt day to be
at Alfoord Feb. 15.
Mr. John Irving absent, and having been frequently absent, both
befor and since the last Synod, it was ordained that he should be
advertised by a letter to keep the nixt dyet, with certification.
[zj cases of discipline}
Alfoord Feb. 15, 1671.
Mr. James Walker exercised and added Romans 15. 30, and was
approven, and Mr. Patrick Coupland past his questionarie tryall, and
tryall of the Languages, and was approven, and in consideration that
both young men had past through all the poynts of their tryalls with
approbation, it was ordained that ane recomendation should be directed
to the Bishop of Aberdeen to procure a licence to preach the gospell.
Mr. Adam Barclay, and Mr. John Leslie excused for their last
dayes absence by reason of sicklies, and Mr. Robert Irving by reason
of his wife her sicknes, and Mr. Robert Cheen excused for his former
absences by reason of his old age and winter weather, and Mr.
W'illiam Christie was gravlie rebuked for his former absences.
Mr. John Irving having been advertised by a letter from the
Presbytrie, according to the former ordinance, made return therto this
164 RECORDS OF TlTE MEETING [167 1
day, by excusing his former absences, and withall making complaints
against some of his parish, the examination wherof required his presence,
and therfor all was referred to the nixt day, at which he promised to
be present.
Mr. William Christie and Mr. Robert Cheen did undergo the privie
censure, and both were approven, onlic Mr. Robert Chccn was required
to follow ane effectual 1 course for wiping off some reproachfull speeches
spoken against his liff and conversation by the goodman of Law, befor
some ministers of the Presbytrie, which he undertook to doe with all
convenient diligence.
The nixt dyet appoynted to be at Alfoord, March 15, and Mr. Robert
Cheen to exercise and add on Romans 15. 31.
\i6 cases of discipline^
Alfoord March 15, 1671.
There was no exercise, in regard of Mr. Robert Cheen, the speaker
his absence upon the account of sicknes, as he declared by a lyn.
Mr. John Irving being present, and the reasones of his absences
being heard, such as his bodily weaknes, the difficultie of the wray,
and the winter season, which (because the brethren were informed he
travelled to and betwixt Aberdeen and his own house and elsewhere,
which he did not deny) the brethren considering, and lykwise concerning
his privie censure, and what might be said, they referred to the Bishop
and ensueing Synod, to which he choiced rather to subject himself than
to the brethren of the Presbytrie.
The referres of the last Synod were read and recomended to the
brethren.
The nixt meeting is appoynted to be at Alfoord.
[/<? cases of discipline^
Alfoord Apryl 12, 1671.
Mr. Robert Cheen exercised and added and was approven.
Thomas Stuart in Cabrach was delait by the minister for removing a
dask belonging to the tennants of the laird of (?) Eryht; being summoned
to this day and called, compeired and confessed the same, and pretending
l6/l] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 165
a right to the said room ; the tennants of the laird of (?) Eryht also corn-
peering and complaining of the wrong done them, contrarie to ane former
Act of the Presbytric in same particular after much paynes taken for
that accomodation. The Presbyterie appoynted some of their number to
meet the 3d of May at Cabrach that probation may be led, and sufficient
evidence given by the said Thomas Stuart for making out his claim, and,
in the meantym, that the dask be reponcd by the said Thomas, which he
promised and engaged to doe under his hand. The brethren appoynted
to meet were the moderator Mr. Adam Barclay, Mr. Thomas Garden,
and Mr. William Burnet.
The forsaid Thomas Stuart and others gave in severall complaints
against Mr. John Irving, against which Mr. John protested that they
might not be heard, and did back his protestation with ane appeal to
the Bishop, declaring he would not own us any longer for a judicatiorie.
In the meanwhile he did delait one John Straquhan for speaking in the
church to some on the Lord's day {mediately preceeding Christmas, in the
tym of divyn service, being sumoned to this day compeired, and denyed,
wherupon Mr. John was ordained to sumond wittnesses.
The refcrres of the Synod were read again, and they were recomended
particularly that anent the contribution for Kilmarnoch and the bursars,
and it was found that Mr. Adam Barclay, Mr. John Walker, Mr. Thomas
Garden, Mr. William Christie and the moderator rest only this half-yeir,
to be payed at the Synod, Mr. John Walker and Mr. John Mair have
payed all since their entrey, Mr. Robert Cheen and Mr. William Burnet
for Kildrumie rest all since their entries, it was recomended to them to
bring it with them to the Moderator, which they promised to doe.
The Moderator and Clerk were ordained to fill up the book, and
transmit it to the Bishop.
The appoyntment of the nixt Presbyteriall diet delayed, till the
brethren meet at Aberdeen.
[/<? cases of discipline^
Mr. William Burnet
Clerk to the Presbytrie.
26 Apryl 1671.
The Presbytrie buik of Alfurcl approven by the Bishop and Synod.
Mr. Al. Forbes, Clerk to the Synod of Aberdeen.
1 66 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [167 1
The Diocesian Synod of Aberdeen holden within the Kings Colledg,
Old Aberdeen, Apryl 25, 1671, by anc Right Reverend Father in God,
Patrick, by the mercy of God, Bishop of Aberdeen.
Scss : i°. 25 Apryl, ante meridiem.
After sermon had by Mr. Patrick Sibbald, minister at Aberdeen, in
the Kirk of St. Machar, the Lord Bishop and Synod did meet at the
said King's Colledg, and after incalling of the name of God, the roll of
ministers names was called, the absents noted, and visitors appoynted.
Sess : 2°. eodem die post meridiem.
It is ordered that, at the visiting of every Presbytrie book, the
censures of the Presbytries shall be simul et seniel.
It is ordered that the contributiones collected in evrie Presbytrie
for supplie of the brunt town of Kilmarnoch be given in tomorrow,
in the fornoon, by each moderator, to William Gilmur in Kilmarnoch,
who is comissionat, and sent hither to receive the samen.
Sess : 3°. 26 Apryl, ante meridiem.
Anent two supplicationes and complaints given in to the Bishop by
Thomas and Alexander Stuarts, in the Kirktoun of Cabrach, against
Mr. John Irving, minister at Cabrach, for his alleadged scandalous
misbehaviour, as ane minister of the Gospell, and other alleadged
deeds of wrong, which being publickly read, in presence of the Lord
Bishop and Synod, they, finding no wittnesses present adduced nor
sumond for proving these deeds, have appoynted and ordained the
brethren after mentioned viz. Mr. James Straquhan at Oyne, Mr.
William Garioch at Culsamond, Mr. William Meldrum at Auchterles,
Mr. Arthur Straquhan at Methlich, Mr. Alexander Mitchel at Lam-
phanan, Mr. Robert Irving at Towie, and Mr. Georg Watsone at
Lochel, or any three of them to be ane quorum, and the said Mr.
William Meldrum to be moderator of the said meeting, and in case
of his absence, with power to those brethren who shall meet to choos
any other moderator of their own number, and also with power to
them to choos their own clerk, to convcen and meet at the Kirk of
Cabrach upon the first Tuesday of June nixt to come, to tak notice
and cognosce upon the said complaints given in, or to be given in befor
1671] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. l6/
the said day, against the said Mr. John Irving, and to use and admitt
all lawfull probation on the said mater, and sumond wittnesses for
that effect, and have ordered a just doubl of the said complaints to be
given in to the said Mr. John, fyfteen dayes preceeding the said meet
ing at Cabrach, wherby he may have his answers and defences in
readines, and to report to the Lord Bishop what they shall find anent
the premisses.
The Bishop declared that, as he should find occasion, he resolved
to delcgat, in evrie one of the Presbytries within this Diocess, certain
brethren to visit any kirk within the bounds of their own Presbytries,
who are to report to the Lord Bishop what they find after the said
visitations, and in the mean tym, seriously recomend each Presbytrie
to visit the Session books of evrie parish, according to the ordinance
of former Synods, and to record their diligence theranent in their
Presbytrie book.
The Presbytrie books of Alfurd, Garioch, Turreff, and Kincardin
were approver! .
Sess : 4°. eodem die post meridiem.
Ane supplication being given in by Arthur Forbes of Brux, and
Mr. Walter Cochran of Drumbrek, desyring ane order to be granted
by the Lord Bishop and Synod of Aberdeen, for cognoscing upon
the roomes within the Church of Udny, and divyding of the said
church, for accomodation of the severall heritors and pariochiners
interested, and particularly in behalf of the said petitioners their
accomodation, having no roomes assigned to them in the said church
as is alleadgecl. The Lord Bishop, with consent of the Synod, having
taken the said supplication to their consideration, did ordain ane edict
to be served at the Church of Udny, charging and warning all and
sundrie the heritours, fcwers, fermers, lyfrenters, possessors, having or
pretending interest to compeir at the Church of Udny upon the thru!
Thursday of May nixt to come, being the 17 day therof, befor Patrick
Lord Bishop of Aberdeen, with the assessors appoynted by him and
the brethren viz. Mr. Uavid Lyall minister at Aberdeen, Mr. James
Gordon parson of Banchrie, Mr. Adam Barclay minister at Keig, Mr.
Georg Innes minister at Belhelvie, Mr. Georg Meldrum minister at
Fintray, who are to meet with the said brethren of the Presbytrie of
l68 RECORDS OF TIIK MEETING
Ellon, at the forsaicl Church of Udny, day and place forsaid, to hear
and see the roomes of the said church, cognosce upon and divide
proportionatly, if needs be, according to the forsaid accomodation, or
then to alleadg some relevant reason in the contrarie, or in case of
the said Bishop his absence, to compeir befor the brethren above
nominat with the brethren of the Prcsbytrie, unto whom or any three
of them, in case of absence of the rest, together with such of the
Presbytrie as shall be present. The Lord Bishop, with consent of the
Synod, gives and grants permission and order to meet at the said
church, upon the day forsaid, and therafter calling for the said edict,
to hear any reasones that shall be given in by any of the parishioners,
and to cognosce and judg therof, and, if need be, to proceed to the
division of the said kirk, according to the said heritors interests within
the said parish, and to design to them their roomes proportionatly,
and to doe therin in all things according to law, and as they will be
answerable to the Lord Bishop and Synod.
Scss : 5". 27 Apryl ante meridiem.
The Presbytrie books of Aberdeen, Fordyce, Ellon, and Deir are
approven.
Anent the visitation of Kirks within the Diocess, the Bishop, with
consent of the Synod, has appoynted, for the better ordering of that
affair, that the moderators of the severall Presbytries, together with
Mr. John Menzies, professor, Mr. David Lyall, Mr. Alexander Ross
at Monimusk, Mr. William Hay at Crimond, and Mr. Adam Barclay
at Keig, meet with the Bishop at Old Aberdeen, upon the third Tuesday
of June nixt, for preparing overtours ancnt the way of procedour in the
said visitations.
Anent the supplication given in by Robert Burnet Procurator
phiscall of the comissariat of Aberdeen, showing that wherby severall
Acts of Parliament were appoynted for secureing and protecting of
widowes of ministers or orphanes in their just rights and interests, and
that in anno 16 — yeirs, the Reverend Bishops then in office in this
Kingdom did, by their instructiones, appoynt that all ministers, within
their respective parishes, should keep ane exact register of the names
of defunct personcs, and should give ane extract therof, subscribed
with their hands, to the comissioncr physcall within whose jurisdiction
OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 169
they lived, at all occasions when they shall be required, and that they
should dcnic the benefit of mariag untill the confirmatione of their
deceased wiff or husband's testaments, and that notwithstanding these
ordinances are not so punctually observed as need requires within this
Bishoprick, and that by the neglect therof many of the leidges are
greatly prejudged, and widdowes, orphanes, and legators sustain great
damage, and therfor desyring that ane Act be past for faithfull observing
of the premisses within this Diocess, the Lord Bishop, with consent of
the Synod, has renewed the Act of the Bishop made theranent, in the
moneth of October 1662.
It is ordered that, befor any person be admitted to the profession of
repentance, in order to relaxation from excomunication, that they first be
sent in to the Bishop, and his order obtained for that effect.
Anent the selecting a Professor of Divinity in the Kings Colledg,
referred to the meeting to be the 3 Tuesday of June nixt, at Old
Aberdeen.
It is ordered that, in evrie Presbytrie, the ministers shall have a
comon head of controversie handled at evrie other meeting alternis
JioDiinibus with their ordinarie exercise.
At Aberdeen Apryl 26, 1671.
The brethren mett, and appoynted their nixt meeting to be at Alfuird
the 24 of May, and Mr. William Christie ordained to exercise upon the
ordinarie mater.
At Alfuird May 24, 1671.
The brethren mett, and Mr. William Christie exercised and added on
Romans 15. and last, and was approven.
A letter being presented from the Ordinarie, the Lord Bishop, con
taining ane recomendation in favour of Mr. William Thomsone, student
of Divinitie, for the kirk of Auchindor, and it being provided previous to
the right of his admission to tryals, that it should be declared by some
brethren of the Presbytrie who were comissionat by the Lord Bishop to
goe to Mr. William Davidsone his house at Auchindor, and take his
oath anent his presentation to the said Church, by whom, and when, and
Y
170 RECORDS OF THE MEETING
whether he was in perfect judgment and memorie at that tyme. The
brethren viz. the moderator, Mr. Walter Ritchie, and Mr. Thomas Garden
declared that they found him in perfect mynd and memorie, anent his
presentation to the church, as the report at more length bears. Where
upon the said Mr. William was admitted to his tryalls, and ordained to
have his exercise and addition on the ordinarie mater of the Exercise at
Alfoord June 14,
Mr. William Burnet was ordained to supplie Cushnie once betwixt
and the nixt day.
[77 cases of discipline]
At Alfuird June 14, 1671.
Mr. William Thomson exercised and added on Romans 16. 3, 4, 5,
and was approven, and he is appoynted to preach ane popular sermon on
Romans 12. i, at the nixt dyet, which is appoynted to be at Alfuird
July 6.
The brethren present declared that they had preached on 29 of May.
Mr. Adam Barclay, Mr. Thomas Garden, Mr. William Christie, and
Mr. Robert Irving, and the moderator declared that they did celebrate
the sacrament on Easter and Mr. George Watsone, and Mr. Walter
Ritchie Ap : 16.
The referres of the Synod were read, and recomended to the brethren,
and notice being taken of that Act anent the filling up, and visiting of
Session bookes, the brethren were desyred to mak them readie.
The privie censure past upon all present, and nothing found worthie
of record.
[/p cases of discipline']
Alfuird Julie 6.
Mr. William Thomsone preached popular doctrin on Romans 12. I.
And Mr. Patrick Copland presenting a letter from our Ordinarie re-
comending him to his tryalls, in reference to the Church of Cushnie, he
was ordained to exercise and add on Romans 6. 7, &c. the nixt day,
which is appoynted to be at Alfuird July 26 ; and Mr. William Thomsone
ordained to distribut his theses on that head De infallibilitate Ecclesiae,
1671] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFOKD. \J I
Mr. John Mair reported that he had celebrat the comunion, June 18,
and Mr. Adam Barclay, Mr. Georg Watsone, and Mr. John Mair declared
that they preached May 29, and they did undergo the privie censure, and
were approven.
Mr. Andrew Abercrombie reported that he had supplied Cushnie,
and Mr. Patrick Copland ordained to supplie, as often as he could, in
regard he was presented to the place.
The minister of Strathdon gave up his Session book, which was
delivered to Mr. John Mair to be visited.
[/7 cases of discipline}
Alfoord July 26, 1671.
Mr. Patrick Copland exercised and added Romans 6. 7, 8, 9, &c., and
was approven, and Mr. William Thomsone distributed theses upon that
head De infallibilitate Ecclesiae and ordr.ined to deliver his exegesis ther-
upon the nixt day, which is appoynted to be at Alfuird August 14.
Mr. Patrick Copland reported that he had supplied Cushnie, and
ordained yet to supplie.
Mr. John Mair reported that he had not yet visited the Session book
of Strathdone, but promised to have it readie against the nixt clay.
The sacrament of the Lord's Supper was celebrated at Kinethmont
May 19.
Mr. Patrick Copland is ordered to distribut theses the nixt day on
that head De Trinitate.
[/./ cases of discipline}
At Alfuird August 14, 1671.
Mr. William Thomsone handled that controversie De infallibilitate
Ecclesiae, and was approven; and Mr. Patrick Copland distributed theses
according to the former ordinance, and ordained to handl that question
DC Trinitate the nixt clay ; and Mr. William Thomsone to sustain his
disput and tryall of the Languages.
Mr. Patrick Copland reported that lie supplied Cushnie, and was
ordained to supplie yet.
I72 RECORDS OF TIIK MKKTlNC [1^71
There was no report of the Session book of Strathdone, in regard of
Mr. John Mair his absence.
Ane letter being presented from the Lord Bishop, requiring the
ministers interested to enquir after those children who are disorderly
baptized by persones unauthorised, and the ministers being asked one
by one, there was none found but some in the Cabrach, wherof the
minister could not give ane exact accompt, wherfor it was rccomended
to him to search after them.
Another letter was presented from the Bishop, relating to Mr. John
Irving and his parishioners, to which the moderator was ordained to
return ane answer, and Mr. John Irving being posed anent John
Straquhan, answered that what he had to say against him was con
tained in his libell.
[/j cases of discipline}
Alfoord September 6, 1671.
Mr. Patrick Copland delivered his exegesis De Trinitate, and Mr.
William Thomson sustained his disput, and tryalls of the Greek and
Hebrew Languages, and qucstionarie tryall, and it being the last of Mr.
William Thomsone his tryalls, and all being revised, and it found that
he had given satisfaction in the severall poynts therof, he was
recomended to the Bishop for ordination, and Mr. Patrick Copland
was ordained to have his popular sermon on Revelation 3. 17 the
nixt clay, which is to be at Alfuird September 24.
Mr. Patrick Copland reported that he had supplied Cushnie.
Ane letter was presented to the Presbytric, in answer to their last
letter directed by the Moderator to the Bishop, whcrin it is showed that
he had appoynted Mr. John Irving to exhibit such grievances and
complaints against his parishioners befor the Presbytrie, as he could
condescend upon, and to advertise such assessors as were nominat in
the said referre, and the said John Irving compeiring, and presenting
ane lybell, which \vas read, and he was desyrecl to draw it up in form,
and subscribe it, and give coppies to the persones accused, and cause
sumonds both parties and wittnesses to appear at the nixt dyet at
September 24.
[10 cases of discipline}
1671] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORI). 173
Alfuird September 24, 1671.
There was no exercise in regard of the multiplicitie of affairs, and
that important bussincs anent Mr. John Irving, minister at Cabrach.
Mr. Patrick Copland reported that he had supplied Cushnie.
It being enquired who were deficients to the bursar, it was found that
all had payed preceeding ycirs except Cabrach and Auchindor.
Mr. Robert Irving, the moderator, and Clerk ordained to meet at
Alfuird tomorrow, and fill up the book.
Mr. John Irving did appear, and did exhibit executiones of sumondes
against severall persones, and wittnesses for probation of a lybell which
was read and subscribed by him, and the parties and witnesses present
being called and compeiring, and the lybell read in their presence respec
tive, and the wittnesses accordingly examined in presence of assessors
convened for the tym viz. Mr. James Straquhan minister at Oyn, and
Mr. William Garioch minister at Culsamond, the full report is ordained
to be transmitted to the Lord Bishop of Aberdeen, together with the
lybclls, against the ensuing Synod.
[9 cases of discipline}
Mr. W. Burnett, Clerk to the Presbytrie.
Referres of the Synod of Aberdeen October 1671, and begune the
third day therof by ane Right Reverend Father in God, Patrick, Bishop
of Aberdeen.
Octr. 3°. Sess : i°. post meridiem.
After sermon had by Mr. George Melvill, minister of A I ford, in St.
Macher kirk, in Old Aberdeen, the Lord Bishop and Synod did meet in
the afternoone, at the Kings Colledge in Old Aberdeen, and after in-
calling of the name of God, the roll of the ministers names were called,
the absents netted, and visitors appoynted for the severall books of
discipline.
The Acts concluded at the meeting holden by the Lord Bishop and
brethren conveened at Old Aberdeen the 20 of June last, conforme
to ane ordinance of the last Synod holden in Apryl 1671, being read are
heirby ratified and approven by the Lord Bishop and Synod, and
174 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [167 1
ordered to be insert in the records of this Synod, and have the strength
of Acts therof, wherof the tenor followes.
At Old Aberdeen June 20, 1671.
Concerning scandalous reports passing upon ministers, it is resolved
that the 48 Synodicall Act of the Synod, holdcn in October 1663, be
duelie observed theranent, with this aclditione, that if after tryall there be
no probable ground found for such reports, if they can fix upon any
person or persones that have been spreaders or raisers of such reports,
then, in that caice, the minister defamed shall be obliged to persew him
or them as slanderers, befor the judge ordinarie, as he shall be answerable.
Item, that in pariochiall visitationes, besydes the inquirie to be made
anent the minister's doctrine, discipline, and conversatione, as lykewise
concerning the diligence and conversatione of the elders, search may also
be made anent the minister's provisione, manse, gleeb, and other privi-
ledges, anent the Schoolmaster and his maintenance, anent the fabrick of
the church and churchyaird dykes, anent mortificationes if there be any,
and how they arc secured and imployed, anent the church registers, whither
or not there be ane perfect record of dyets of preaching, catechising,
baptisme, manages, burialls, with the due celebration of the Lord's
Supper, the utensilles of the church, and the improvement of the poore's
money, and penalties ; item concerning minister's conversatione, if it be
scandalous, and diligence in his office, that the elders be posed upon oath
theranent, the minister being allowed to propone his exceptiones (if any
he have) against them or any of them, and that the people, by ane edict
to be served at the parish church, upone ane Lord's day, be warned to
attend at the visitatione, to object what they know, or arc able to prove
against their minister, with certificatione that if they appeare not to the
effect forsaid, but therafter shall give in any accusatione that they could
have proven alsvveell at the visitatione to which they were publickly
warned as therafter, (which they must declare upon oath) that then, and
in that caice, they are not to be further hearcd in any such matter.
Item, that in caice of afama dainosa against a minister, that if the
persones that can give light in that matter doe not reside in the parochine
to be visited, if these persons be within the Presbytrie where the minister
resides, then, by ane order from the Bishop, the Presbytrie shall sumond
1671] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 175
the said persones to compeir befor them, and dcclaire what they know
concerning any such report. or scandall upon oath, but if these persones
reside within the boundcs of severall Prcsbytries, that then they be
sumoned to a general visitation to be kept hcer at Old Aberdeen, by such
persones as the Bishop at the Synod shall nominat to that effect, betwixt
Synods.
Octr. 4 Sess : 2°. ante meridiem.
It being represented by severall brethren of the ministrie, that the
Lord's day is greatlie prophaned by carrying of timber and packs to
and frae towns and mercats on the Lord's day, for remeed wherof, it is
ordered that the ministers, within whose parochines such abuses shall
be found, cause take notice of the names of such persones, whither
they be countrie people, or horsehyrers in towncs, or in what parochines
or borrowes they live, and that they signifie and wreitt their offences
to the ministers at these parochines or borrowes where they dwell,
that they may be processed, untill they rcturne and satisfie for the
scandall, and prophanatione of the Lord's day, in that parochin where
the offence is given.
Scss : 3°. Octr. 4 post meridiem.
Anent the referre of the last Synod holden in Apryl 1671, relateing
to Mr. John Irving minister at Cabrach, and his parishioners lybellers
and complainers against him, it being found that the said Mr. John
has not as yet had the opportunitie of presenting his lybell against
them, and some of these lybellers, viz. William Gordoune and Thomas
Stewart having come to this Synod to give in ane lybell against the
said Mr. John Irving, he being absent and excused, the Lord Bishop,
with consent of the Synod, orclaincs the Presbytrie of Alford, with the
brethren appoynted at the last Synod, Apryll 1671, assessors to them,
to proceed and examine the said Mr. John Irving his lybell against
his parishioners, and for that effect to keep the first meeting anent
that affair at Alford, and the nixt meeting therafter at Cabrach, and
if any shall offer ane new lybell against the said Mr. John to the
Presbytrie, that the moderator, in name of the Presbytrie, certifie
them, that, after the discusseing of the said Mr. John his lybell, their
lybell shall be nixt heared, and then, after that the lybclls of both
the said parties are examined, the Presbytrie of Alford shall make
176 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1671
report thcrof to the Bishop. And because there may be anc conveni
ence of calling- anc meeting of those brethren who are presentlie upon
the conference betwixt this and the nixt Synod, it is ordered that
upon anc call from the Lord Bishop, the said brethren shall meet at
Old Aberdeen at any tymc to be appoynted by his Lordship, betwixt
this and the cnsueing Synod. It is lykcwyse ordered that the moderator
of Alford shall have the proccsse and procedure betwixt the said Mr.
John Irving and his parishioners in rcadienes to be sent to the Lord
Bishop, befor that day, which shall be appoynted for the meeting of
the Lord Bishop and the brethren of the conference.
Sess : 4" Octr. 5 ante meridiem.
For the better regulatcing of the tryalls of young men bcfor they
be admitted to the ministrie, it is ordered by the Lord Bishop, with
consent of the Synod, that all young men, befor they be admitted to
their tryalls, be obliged to produce ane sufficient testimonie, under
the hands of the maisters of the Universitie where they comenced
masters in Philosophic, bearing the claitt of their graduation, that the
Presbytrie may be satisfied that the Act of the Synod, in reference to
their four yeirs studie befor they enter upon their tryalls, be fullie
satisfied.
Secundo, that ane pairt of their quadrienniall studie be imployed
in waiting upon the professione of Theologie, and that they shall be
oblidged (befor their admission to any tryall) to report testificats, under
the hands of the respective professors, of their proficiencie.
Tertio, that evrie young man who passes his tryalls shall have six
dyets for that effect, and i°. he shall sustaine the tryall of the Languages,
2°. his questionaric tryall, 3°. the Exegesis, 4°. his dispute, 5°. he shall
have the Exercise and Additione, and 6°. a popular sermon. And if it
be found that he is not acquainted in competent measure with the letter
and received sense of Scripture, positive and polemicall Divinitie, and
Church Historic, that the Presbytrie shall proceed no further, but
appoynt him to be at the paines to studie some better.
Quarto, That the moderator, with the advyce of the Presbytrie, shall
prescrybe the comon head to the candidatns, and that the said candidatus
shall be oblciclged, befor he divulge his theses, to acquaint the moderator
I6/I] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 177
with the tenor of them, that he may judge if they be orthodox, and
pertinent to be agitat in publick.
Quinto, that they be so weell at least acquainted with the originall
Languages, as to expone any chapter in the Greek New Testament,
and read any parcel! of the Old Testament in Hebrew (ad aperturam
libri] and that over and above the exposition of that Hebrew psalm,
which shall be prcscrybed to them ; and that where, through the
blessing of God, the Presbytrie is numerous, it is thought fitt for the
exercise of evry brother his gifts, that about half onlie of the number
be imployed to dispute or propone questiones when there is such ane
dyett of tryall, and the remanent shall be put to it at the nixt occasione.
And it is judged convenient for the forsaid reasone, that, in evry
intcrvall betwixt tryalls of two young men, one of the brethren {per
vices] shall be ordered to exercise or handle ane comon head, as the
Presbytrie shall find fitt, their usuall method in these caices being
observed.
Ancnt those whose children are baptised in ane disorderlie way, it
is ordered that those ministers, in whose parochines the parents of such
children reside, may send in their names to the Lord Bishop, that they
may be presented by his Lordship to the Privie Counsell, and withall
that the respective ministers shall processe the parents of such children
till they give satisfaction for the scandall.
It is ordered by the Lord Bishop, with consent of the Synod, that
the severall Presbytries shall ask ane accompt of evry particular minister
within their precinct anent mortificationes where they are, and that the
moderators and brethren examine how these mortificationes are secured
and imployed, and if they find that they are weell secured and imployed,
that they keep ane record therof in their registers, and if these mortifica
tiones be weell secured and imployed, in that caice not to trouble the
Bishop and Synod therwith, otherwyse to represent the samen to the
nixt Synod in Apryll 1672.
It is ordered by the Lord Bishop, with consent of the Synod,
that there be ane publick fast and humiliatione observed through all
the congrcgationes of this Diocesse, upon the Lord's day, the 15 of
October instant, and that in consideratione of the many abounding
sinnes of the land, and great losse of the cornes and fruits of the
ground, sustained by the great stormes of windes and raines, and to
1 78 RECORDS OF THE MEETING
supplicat the Lord's blessing upon the harvest seasonc, and ane blessing
upon such as rcmaines, and that intimatione thcrof be made from the
several! pulpits within this Diocie, the nixt Lord's day.
For the better obscrvatione of the 29 day of May ycirlie, for thanks-
mvein«\ conforme to the Acts of Parliament and former Acts of Synods
DO' »
made thcranent, it is ordered that cvry minister within their respective
Kirks make intimation to their parishoners, the Lord's day imediatlie
prcccdcing the 29 of May yeirlic, exhorting them to the observing of
that day by thanksgiving, conforme to the said Acts.
It is ordered by the Lord Bishop, with consent of the Synod, that
ane supplie be granted by cvrie minister, for help and maintenance of
Master Walter Birnie blind man and preacher, and delivered by each
minister to their respective moderators, and therafter to be sent by the
moderators to Mr. David Lyall, minister at Aberdeen, betwixt and the
last of October nixt to come, who is to convey the same to him.
It is ordered that the meeting of the nixt Synod is to be the third
day of Apryll nixt 1672.
At Old Aberdeen, Octr: 4, 1671.
The brethren mett, and appoynted their nixt Presbyteriall meeting
to be at Alford, October the first, and in regaird that Mr. Alexander
Barclay had been a Student of Divinitie these three yeirs bygone, within
the precinct of the Presbytry of Alford, it is ordained that, as a specimen
of his studies, he have ane exercise upon the ordinarie matter, Romans
1 6 cap:, and 17 verse, and to be in readines to deliver the samen when
ever he shall be called therto.
At Alford November I, 1671.
Mr. Alexander Barclay haveing acquainted the moderator and
brethren of the Presbytrie, that he was shortlie to goe to Aberdeen to
waitt upon his pupill at the Colledge, and knew not but he might be
called therto befor the nixt meeting, therfor desyred that he might be
admitted to exercise the said day, bccaus he desyred not to be mistaken
in reference to the former ordinance, as either to have slighted or
1671] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFOK1). 179
neglected the same, if it should happen that he were necessitat to goc
to Aberdeen bcfor the nixt meeting, which desyre is granted, and so
he exercised on Romans 16 cap. and 17 and 18 verses, and is approven.
And the brethren considering that they could not this day (haveing
heard anc exercise alreadie) accept of Mr. Patrick Coupland his popular
sermon from his hand, therfor ordained that, in rcgaird the said Mr.
Patrick had delivered his Exegesis alreadie upon the head DC Trinitate,
and had tymeouselie distributed his theses upon that subject to be
disputed, he should sustaine his dispute this day, which he did, but in
regaird there were some brethren that had not disputed, and seemed
not to be altogether satisfied with his answers to the arguments pro
pounded, it is intimate unto them that, upon the day when he shall
sustaine his questionarie tryall, they shall propose some qucstiones
and arguments upon the subject of his dispute, the more to cleare
them anent his knowledge thcrin, and bccaus he had not yet delivered
his popular sermon (having been first obstructed by the weightines of
busines in Mr. John Irving his concernment, and afterwards by the
expediencic of the granting Mr. Alexander Barclay, his forsaid desyre)
it is therfor ordained, that he have his popular sermon the nixt clay,
which is appoynted to be this day 20 dayes, being the 22 of this
current November.
Mr. Patrick Coupland reported that he had supplied the vacancie
of Cushnie. It is recomcndcd to him as yet to supplie it.
Mr. Robert Irving, minister at Towie, reported that he had given
institution to Mr. William Thomsone at Auchindore to be minister at
the said kirk, conforme to his letters of collatione, granted by the Right
Reverend Patrick, Bishop of Aberdeen, which are of the daitt, the sixth
of October 1671, and that upon the 22 of October last bypast.
Anent the Session book of Strathdone, the minister of Lochell this
day gave in the report theranent, and it was approven, onlie some omis-
siones and informalities of the Clerk were observed, which the minister
was desyred to help in tymc comeing.
Mr. John Irving was ordained to sumond to the nixt meeting such
persones as had not compeired the last day, provydeing always that the
report of the late Synod come to our hands.
It is appoynted that the privie censure passe on the respective
brethren the nixt day, which is appoynted to be this day 20 dayes.
180 RECORDS OF THE MEETING
All the respective brethren being inquyrcd if they had observed the
fast injoyncd by the Lord Bishop and Synod, declaired that they had
observed it.
[// cases of discipline}
At Alford Xov: 22, 1671.
Mr. Patrick Coupland delivered his popular sermon on Revelation
22 cap: and 17 verse, and when it came to the censure of the doctrine,
it was alleadged by some, that the said sermon was no fruits of his
studies, but was taken almost verbatim out of Sedgwick upon the 54
of Isaiah, wherupon the judgment of the brethren therancnt is suspended
till the nixt meeting, that his papers be conferred with that book, and
it is ordained that he have his questionarie tryall the nixt day, which
is appoynted to be this day moneth, being the 20 of the ensueing moneth
December.
Anent Mr. John Irving, his busines is referred as yet to the nixt day,
the referres of the late Synod not being come to the Prcsbytrie.
According to the former ordinance, the privie censure past upon the
respective brethren, but nothing worthie of censure was observed.
Mr. William Christie delivered to the Presbytrie his Session book
of Glenbucket, which was given to Mr. Thomas Garden, minister at
Clatt, to be visited, and to report his diligence theranent the nixt day.
[// cases of discipline}
At Alford December 20, 1671.
Mr. Patrick Coupland haveing, imediatlie after the last Presbytrie,
delivered up the papers of his popular sermon, together with Sedgwick's
book, to the moderator, the moderator, with consent of the brethren, did
sett apart two of the members of the Presbytrie for collationing the same,
who, after they had read over and revised them, reported that it was far
otherwise than was alleadged, and that they had found vast difference
betwixt them, both in the method and matter, he is therfor this day
approven in that poynt of tryall.
1672] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. iSl
Mr. Patrick Coupland sustained his questionarie tryall of the
Languages, Hebrew and Greek, and was approven.
The brethren haveing taken to consideratione the severall poynts of
Mr. Patrick Coupland his tryalls, found themselves satisfied to grant
him a recomendation to their Ordinarie, the Lord Bishop of Aberdeen,
in order to his ordination and admission to the Church of Cushnie,
which the moderator of the Presbytrie is to transmitt to the Bishop.
Mr. William Murray, Student in Divinitie, and servitor to the Laird
of Craigivarre, being recomended by some of the brethren that he might
have a comon head prescrybed him, as a specimen ingenii, was appoynted
to have ane Exegesis De judice controversiarum the nixt day, which is
appoynted to be this day moneth.
\I2 cases of discipline}
At Alford Januarie 17, 1672.
Mr. William Murray delivered ane Exegesis De judice controver-
siaruni, as a specimen ingenii^ and was approven.
In reference to ane letter sent from our Ordinarie, concerning a late
emergent, alleadged to be done by Mr. John Irving, minister at Cabrach,
by setting fyre to the corns of a widow woman, named Jannet Roy, and
some endeavours to kill some persones, the tryall of which was recomen
ded in the first place, and to be begunne at, befor any other accusationes
exhibited by him against his pariochoners, should be examined, as the
letter at more length proports. Mr. James Straquhan, minister at Oyne,
Mr. William Garrioch, minister at Culsamond, Assessors nominat by the
Bishop, in his letter, mett with the Presbytrie for that effect. The parties
who joyned in this accusatione against the said Mr. John Irving are as
follows, Thomas Stewart, Alexander Stewart, and Jannet Roy their
mother, who gave in a lybell to that purpose, which Thomas and
Alexander Stewarts subscrybed with their owne hands, and the woman
did authorize the Clerk to subscrybe for her. And the said Mr. John
being posed as to these alleadgeances given in against him, if they
were true or no, denyed the lybell in terminis, and for the probation of
the lybell, the accusers forsaid give in these witnesses, Patrick Gordoune
servitour to the said Mr. John Irving, John Gordoune in Larg, James
182 kECOKDS OK THE MEETING [1672
Moricc in the Kirktownc, Kathcrinc Kcllis there, William Gordoune in
Ballhillock, John Clerk in Redfoord, William Gordoune in the milne
of Cabrach, and none of these witnesses being present, save John
Gordoune in Larg, and Patrick Gordoune, against whom the said Mr.
John made no exception, only desyred that John Gordoune should
give his oath de caluiunia, who were admitted and sworne in presence
of the said Mr. John, and the forsaid accusers, who deponed as after
followes. John Gordoune deponed, in the first place, that he had no
malice against the said Mr. John, and being interrogat anent the lybcll,
as to Mr. John Irving his oppressing Jannet Roy, and minaceing Thomas
Stewart, niliil probat. As to the other particulare, in setting fyre to the
corns, nil til probat. Patrick Gordoune being called in, as to the first
particular niJiil probat : as to the second, he deponed that he saw Mr.
John Irving stricking Thomas Stewart with his foot, whill the said
Thomas was holding him by the shoulders, and that he heard the said
Mr. John say he should be alyke with the said Thomas and Alexander
Stewarts, either with swourd, durk, or whinger, in the rest nihil probat.
And there being no more witnesses present, the parties accusing were
desyred to bring the witnesses given up by them, or more (if they
had any) to the nixt Prcsbytcriall meeting, to be holden at Cabrach
the 14 of the ensucing moneth of Fcbruarie.
Mr. Georg Watsonc, minister at Lochell, delated Thomas Garden,
\Villiam Milne, Thomas Cromarre, Robert Mitchell, and Robert Ogilvie,
for consulting with the sorcerer, Patrick M'Komie anent stollen goods.
He is appoynted to cause sumond them to the nixt meeting, to be
holden at this place.
At Cabrach Fcbr: 14, 1672.
Being stormie, mett onlie Mr. Robert Irvine, minister at Towie,
Mr Arthur Strachan, minister at Mortlech, appoynted Assessor by
the Bishop, Mr. Thomas Garden, minister at Clatt, and Mr. William
Thomsone, minister at Auchindore. Compeired Thomas Stewart,
Alexander Stewart, and Jannet Roy, their mother, parties, and appealled
not onlie from the brethren conveened at the tyme, but also from the
wholl brethren of the Prcsbytric and assessors, nominat by the Bishop.
l672J OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. ^3
Whcrupon Mr. Irving took instruments in the Clerk his hands, and
protested that they might have no further hearing befor those 'from
whom they had appeallcd, in any processe they were carying on against
him.
Jannet Thomsone and Margaret Hebron gave in a lybell against
the said Mr. John Irving, for stricking and bleeding of them, at the
tending of their lint, witnesses Donnald Catenoch, Georg 'llector,
James Gordounc, and Alexander Fordycc, who being called, none com
peired, safe Alexander Fordyce, who was admitted ; and being swornc,
deponed that he saw Mr. John Irving pulling at the lint with his owne
hand, and heard Jannet Thomsone and Margaret Hebron desyre him
to take his tcynd where it fell him, notwithstanding he continueing to
pull the lint as formcrlie, both the said persones did fly in his hair,
whcrupon the said Alexander endeavouring to redd them, they did'
flee in his hair also, and trailed him the length of ten ox'en by the
hair, whilk Mr. John Irving seeing, strack the foresaid Janet Thomsone
to the ground with ane clvand, and brack it on her head, but declaircd
that he saw no blood.
Mr. John Irving gave in a lybell against Thomas and Alexander
Stewarts, for stricking and miscalling him, witnesses James Morice,
Robert Keith, and Robert Stewart, who being called, compeired, and
being admitted, and swornc, deponed as followes. James Morice
deponed that Thomas Stewart called Mr. John Irving dwarf and rogge,
and threatned to trample him, and that Alexander Stewart stroke
him with his feet, and took the rod out of his hand, wherwith he had
beaten him, and therwith strake the said Mr. John Irving. Robert
Keith nihil probavit. Robert Stewart uihil probavit.
In the forsaid lybell also, Mr. John Irving complcaned on John
Marnoch, for calling him dwarf bodie, and threatning to beat his
servant ; witnesses James Gordounc and John Stewart, who being
called, compeired not ; whcrfor the Prcsbytrie, according to the Bishop
his letter to them, offered the probation to the oatrT of partie, who
refuscing was judged guiltie of the calumnies contained in the lybell.
Mr. John Irving took instrument in the Clerk's hand, that Robert
Keith called him a lyar in face of the brethren mett at the tyme.
The nixt meeting is appoynted to be at Alford this day fourtnight,
and Mr. John Irving desyred libertie to sumond such persons as had'
1 84 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [l6/2
wronged him in his good name or otherwise to the nixt meeting, which
was granted.
At Alford Febr: 28, 1672.
No exercise, in respect the last meeting at Cabrach was but thinne,
by reason of the storminess of the weather, as also the brethren who
did meet knew not whose vice it was to exercise, and therfor could not
appoynt it.
Anent the Session book of Glenbucket, Mr. Thomas Garden having
now visited it, gave in the accempt thcrof, whcrin there was no substan-
tiall thing found omitted.
Anent the supplie of Cushnie, Mr. Patrick Coupland is appoynted,
not to suffer that place to be vacant any more, haveing now received
ordination from the Bishop.
Anent Thomas Garden, William Milne, Thomas Cromarre, Robert
Mitchell, and Robert Ogilvie in Lochell, the minister reported that they
were sumoned to this day, who being called, compeired onlie Thomas
Garden, who, confessing his sin, is appoynted to satisfie the discipline
of Lochell in sackcloath. The rest not compciring are appoynted to
be sumoned pro 2do. And ancnt Patrick M'Komie, the sorcerer whom
they consulted, it is referred to the Bishop to clear the Prcsbytrie if
the processe formerly led against the said Patrick be subscryved or
not, and that, in respect it is found in the records of the Presbytrie
that he was processed, but it cannot be found that he is excomunicat.
Mr. John Irvine gave in a literall sumonds against Jannet Roy,
Thomas Stewart, Alexander Stewart, John Marno, William Stewart,
Christian Morice, James Morice, James Millar, John Strachan, Jannet
Couper, and William Robertsone, who being called compeired not. He
is appoynted to cause sumond them to the nixt dyet sub poena contuma-
ciae.
The referrs of the late Synod were read, and seriouslie recomended,
but chieflie ancnt mortificationes, and evry one that hath mortificationes
is appoynted to give a clear accompt of them the nixt clay.
Mr. Adam Barclay declaired that he had given institution to Mr.
Patrick Copland to be minister of Cushnie, conforme to his letters of
collatione to the said kirk, and that upon the [18 day of this current
Februarie.
OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 185
It is appoynted that the respective brethren bring their collectiones
for Mr. Walter Birnie to the nixt meeting.
The nixt day is appoynted to be this day twentie dayes, and by
reason of a letter sent from the Bishop to the Presbytrie to receive Mr.
Alexander Barclay, Student of Divinitic, upon tryall, in order to publick
preaching, he is appoynted to sustain the tryall of the Languages, Greek
and Hebrew, the nixt day.
[/£> cases of discipline}
At Alford March 20, 1672.
Mr. Alexander Barclay sustained the tryall of the Languages, Greek,
Hebrew (haveing presented a large testimonie of his proficiencie in the
Divinitic, under the hand of Mr. John Menzies, Professor of
)ivinitie at Aberdeen) and was approven. The nixt meeting is ap
poynted to be this day 20 dayes, and the said Mr. Alexander is appoynted
to sustamc the questionarie tryall.
Anent Thomas Garden, William Milne, Thomas Cromarre Robert
;ilv.e, and Robert Mitchell in Lochell, the minister reported that
Thomas Garden had obeyed the ordinance of the Presbyterie and was
absolved March the 17 day, and that the rest were sumoned to this day
pro 2°., who being called compeired, and confessing their sin were ap
poynted to satisfie the discipline of Lochell in sackcloath.
Anent Jannet Roy, Thomas Stewart, Alexander Stewart, John Marno
William Stewart, Christian Morice, James Morice, James Millar, John
•trachan, Jannet Couper, and William Robertsone in Cabrach, the minister
the execution of a literall sumoncls given them, to be present this
day, who being called compeired not, are declaired contumacious, and the
minister is appoynted to goe on in processe against them.
Anent the collectione for Mr. Walter Birnie, the respective brethren
promised to bring it to the Synod.
Anent mortificationcs, the respective brethren declaired that they
ew none unclear, or not well secured, safe one in Glenbucket, for the
g of which, the minister of Glenbucket is appoynted to use legall
diligence.
[/5 cases of discipline]
A A
1 86 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1672
At Alford Apryl 10, 1672.
Mr. Alexander Barclay sustained his questionaric tryall, and was
approven. The nixt meeting is appoynted to be this day 20 dayes,
and Mr. Alexander Barclay ordained to have ane Exegesis De officio
Christi mediatorio, and to have his theses in readiness to be distribute the
nixt day.
Anent the referrs of Cabrach, no report because of the minister his
absence.
Anent mortification.es ut supra.
There came ane letter from our Ordinarie, adjourneing the Synod
(becaus he was gone South) to the first Tuesday of October.
Mr. Adam Barclay, Mr. George Melvil, Mr. John Walker, Mr. Thomas
Garden, Mr. Robert Irvine, and Mr. Andrew Abercrombie declaired that
they had celebrate the Holy Sacrament of the Lord's Supper, on the 7 of
this instant Apryl.
Mr. Thomas Garden was appoynted to goe to Kinethmont, and
inquire at Mr. Robert Cheyne the cause of his so frequent absence,
without sending ane accompt of his referres, and to report the nixt day.
[75 cases of discipline}
At Alford May i, 1672.
Mr. Alexander Barclay had ane Exegesis De officio Christi mediatorio,
and was approven, also he distribute his theses, and was appoynted to be
in readines this day 20 dayes, to sustaine the dispute of the same, at this
place.
Anent the referrs of Cabrach, no report, the minister being yet absent.
Mr. William Christie declaired that he had celebrat the Holy Sacra
ment of the Lord's Supper, on the 14 of Apryl last bypast.
Mr. Thomas Garden reported that he had gone to Kinethmont,
according to the Presbytrie's appoyntment, and enquyred at Mr. Robert
Cheyne the cause of his frequent absence from the meetings of the Pres-
bytrie, who replyed that he was so valetudinary that he was scarce able
to ryde one myl of ground, and as for his referrs, he told that it was not
his fault, but the officer's, who was, evry Presbytrie day, directed with a
1672] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 187
lyne from him to the Prcsbytrie, with ane a.ccompt of his referrs, and
returneing at night, said that he was at the Presbytrie, vvherfor he
desyred that a lyne should be directed back to him from the Presbytrie,
under the clerk's hand in order to his referrs, when he wrott to them
(which he promised to doe evry Presbytrie day). The Presbytrie thought
,fitt his desyrc should be granted, and ordered the clerk to doe it in all
tyme comeing.
The nixt day, it is appoynted that the privie censure passe on the
respective brethren.
Anent mortificationcs ut supra.
[// cases of discipline}
At Alfoord May 22, 1672.
Mr. Alexander Barclay sustained the dispute of his theses De officio
CJiristi mediatori-O) and was approven. The nixt day is appoynted to be
this day 20 dayes, and the forsaid Mr. Alexander is appoynted to have
ane Exercise and Addition, on the following matter of the Exercise,
Romans 16 cap., beginning at the 19 verse.
Anent the referrs of Cabrach, no report, the minister being yet absent.
The privie censure delayed till the nixt day, becaus of the paucitie of
the brethren mett at the tymc.
Mr. Robert Cheyne reported by his lyne, that he had celebrat the
sacrament of the Lord's Supper, upon the 12 and 19 dayes of this
current May.
Anent mortificationes ut supra.
[12 cases of discipline}
At Alford June 12, 1672.
Mr. Alexander Barclay had ane Exercise and Addition on Romans
1 6 cap., 19 and 20 verses, and was approven. The nixt day is appoynted
to be this day moneth, and the forsaid Mr. Alexander is appoynted to
have a popular sermon on I Timothy I. 15.
Anent the referrs of Cabrach, no report, the minister being yet
1 88 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1672
absent, and in respect of his so frequent absence, the Prcsbytrie appoyn-
ted Mr. William Thomsone to goe to Cabrach, betwixt and the nixt
Presbyteriall meeting, on a Lord's clay, and hold session, and call for ane
accompt of his referrs, and to make report at the nixt meeting, withall to
acquaint the minister of Cabrach what Lord's day he is to goc thither,
that he may sumond delinquents tymeouslie to that day.
Mr. William Burnet dcclaircd that he had celebrat the Holy Sacra
ment of the Lord's Supper, on the 26 of May last bypast.
This day, the privie censure past on the respective brethren, but
nothing worthie of censure was observed.
The respective brethren being enquired, by the Moderator, if they had
observed the 29 of May, by preaching, replyed they had, except Mr.
Adam Barclay, Mr. Robert Irvine, and Mr. William Burnet, who de-
claired they were in readines, but they wanted hearers.
[// cases of discipline]
At Alfoord Julie 10, 1672.
Mr. Alexander Barclay had a popular sermon on i Timothy i. 15,
and was approven in this and the rest of his tryalls, and is appoyntecl to
have a recomendation from the Moderator to the Bishop, in order to the
opening of his mouth for public preaching. The nixt day is appoyntecl
to be this day 20 days, and Mr. John Mair is appoynted to have ane
Exercise and Addition, on the following matter, Romans last and 21
verse, and he being absent, the minister of Leochel is appoynted to
acquaint him with this ordinance.
Anent the referrs of Cabrach, Mr. William Thomsone declaired that
he had gone there on Lord's day was eight dayes, and had preached and
holden session, and found the elders most willing to keep session evry
Lord's day with the minister, which the minister would not doe, unles
they were all sworr.e de novo (pretending they all sweyed together
against him) which could not be done without a comission from the
Bishop. The delinquents were called, but none compeircd, he is desyred
to cause sumond them to the nixt Presbyteriall meeting, to be holden at
Alfoord Julie 10.
1672] OF THE EXERCISE OE ALEOKI). 189
Mr. William 15 u met delate James Smith in the parochine of Auchin-
clore, and Michael Dunbar in the parochine of Kildrumie, for Sabbath
breaking- by drinking in the tyme of the afternoon sermon, being on a
clay of solcmne thanksgiving after the sacrament, as also by appoynting
a combat which they fought on the morrow morning ; as also Patrick-
Thomson and his wife Isobel Davidsone, in the parochine of Towie, and
Alexander Forbes in the parochine of Kildrumie, for Sabbath breaking,
by drinking in the tyme of the afternoon sermon, on the same day of
thanksgiving. He is appoynted to cause sumond them to the nixt meet
ing, being contumacious to the session.
Anent mortificationes the minister of Glenbucket declaired that he
had sought that hundredth merks (left in legacie by the umquhill
Laird of Glenbucket to the poor of the pariochine) from the tutor of
Glenbucket, first in a friencllie manner, and then by a sumonds befor the
Comissarie of Aberdeen, and that the tutor did not refuse it, but sought a
sufficient warrandice, he not being nominat executor (as he alleadged) in
the testament, wherfor the said matter is referred to the Bishop and
Synod, for their advyce and assistance in the prosecution therof, if need
be.
[10 cases of discipline}
At Alfoord July 31, 1672.
Mr. John Mair had ane Exercise and Addition on Romans 16. 21, 22
and 23, and was approven. The nixt day is appoynted to be this day
20 dayes, and the Moderator is appoynted to exercise on the following
matter of the Exercise.
Anent the referrs of Cabrach, no report, the minister being yet absent.
The Presbyterie made a referre to the Bishop and ensueing Synod,
anent the going to wells, and anent the payment of clerks for testi-
monialls.1
[14. cases of discipline}
At Alfoord August 21, 1672.
The Moderator exercised and added on Romans 16. 24, and was
approven. The nixt day is appoynted to be this day moneth, and Mr.
1 Note 25.
190 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1672
Andrew Abercrombic is appoyntcd to exercise and add, on the following-
matter of the Exercise.
Anent the referrs of Cabrach, no report, the minister being yet absent.
[// cases of discipline]
At Alfoord Septr. 18, 1672.
There was no exercise, in respect the speaker, Mr. Andrew Aber
crombic, was necessarlie withdrawn to Glasgow. The next meeting is
appoynted to be this clay moneth (if there be not a winter Synod), which
if there be, the nixt meeting is appoynted to be, the second day therof,
at the King's Colledge Church in Old Aberdeen, and Mr. Andrew Aber-
crombie is appoynted to exercise, the nixt day of our meeting at this
place.
Anent the referrs of Cabrach, no report, the minister being yet absent.
[ij cases of discipline}
At Alfoord October 16, 1672.
Mr. Andrew Abercrombie had ane Exercise and Addition on Romans
1 6. 25, 26 and 27, and was appro ven. The nixt meeting is appoynted to
be this day moneth, and Mr. Patrick Coupland, minister at Cushnie, to
have ane Exercise and Addition on i Corinthians i. I.
Anent the referrs of Cabrach, no report, the minister being yet absent,
wherfor the minister of Auchindore is appoynted to writt to him in name
of the Presbytrie, anent his frequent absence, and to make report the
nixt day.
The nixt day the privie censure is appointed to passe on the respec
tive brethren.
[14. cases of discipline}
At Alfoord November 13, 1672.
Mr. Patrick Coupland had ane Exercise and Addition on i Corinth
ians i.i, and was approvcn. The nixt meeting is appoynted to be this
1672] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. IQI
day moneth. and Mr. Georg Watsone to have ane Exercise and Addition
on the following matter of the Exercise.
Anent the referrs of Cabrach, no report, the minister being yet absent
Mr. William Thomson, minister at Auchindore, reported, that he had sent
a lyne to him, as he was appoynted, but had received no returne. The
former ordinance is renewed to him.
The privie censure past on the respective brethren present, but
nothing worthie of censure was observed.
[12 cases of discipline}
At Alfoord December 10, 1672.
Mr. Georg Watsone had ane Exercise and Addition on i Corinthians
I. 2, and was approven. The nixt day is appoynted to be this day
moneth, and Mr. William Thomson to have ane Exegesis De numero
sacrament or um.
Anent the referrs of Cabrach, no report, the minister being absent.
Mr. William Thomson declaired that he had sent a lyne to him, but it
was miscaried. He is appoynted to writt to him against the nixt day,
and to report.
[p cases of discipline'}
At Alfoord Januarie 8, 1673.
There was no exercise, in respect the day was far spent befor the
brethren conveened (it being stormie in the morning). Mr. William
Thomson is appoynted to have his Exegesis the nixt day, which is
appoynted to be this day moneth.
Anent the referrs of Kincthmont, no report, becaus of the minister's
absence.
Anent the referrs of Cabrach, the minister of Auchendore reported
that he had written to the minister of Cabrach, dcsyring him, in name of
the Presbytrie, to keep the meetings of the Prcsbytrie, and that he had
received his answer, that it was ane unreasonable clesyre of the Presbytrie
to him, and that he would keep no more meetings with them, untill the
RECORDS OF THE MEETING
Lord Bishop came home, which answer being publickly read befor the
Presbytrie, and considered, he is judged guiltie of contumacie, and referred
to the Bishop and Synod for censure.
[7 cases of discipline]
At Alfoord Februarie 5, 1673.
Mr. William Thomson had ane Exegesis De ntimero sacramentorum,
and was approven. The nixt meeting is appoynted to be this day
moneth, and Mr. William Murray, Student of Divinitie, within the
precinct of our Presbytrie, being recommended by some of the brethren,
in order to the passing of his tryalls for public preaching, and having
produced a testimony of his proficiencie in the said studie of Divinitie,
under the hand of Mr. John Men/ics, Professor, he is appoynted to be in
readines the nixt day, to sustain the tryall of the Languages, Greek and
Hebrew.
Mr. William Christie, and Mr. Andrew Abcrcrombie not being
present at the privy censure were removed, but nothing found worthie of
censure in them, safe that they were exhorted to keep the meetings of
the Presbytrie more frequentlie.
[p cases of discipline]
At Alfoord March 5, 1673.
Mr. William Murray sustained the tryall of the Languages, Greek and
Hebrew, and was approven. The nixt meeting is appoynted to be this
clay moneth, and Mr. William Murray appoynted to sustaine the question-
arie tryall.
Mr. John Irvine, minister of Cabrach, sent a lyne to the Presbytrie,
shewing that Jannet Roy, Thomas Stewart, Alexander Stewart, John
Marno, William Stewart, Christian Morice, James Morice, James Millar,
John Strachan, Jannet Couper, and William Robertsone, were literallie
sumoned to this day sub pcena contumacies, as was formerlie appoynted by
the Presbytrie, but the Presbytrie did forbear to call them, in regard
1673] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 193
nothing could be done anent them, untill Mr. John Irving were present,
to instruct what he had to lay to their charge.
Mr. James Oare, son to umquhill Mr. Arthur Oare, sometyme
minister at Culsalmond, in the Garrioch, being recomended by some of
the brethren, in order to the passing of his tryalls for publick preaching,
and being cloathed with famous testimonies, one under the hands of the
masters of the King's College, in Old Aberdeen, for his commencement
with them in the stuclie of Philosophic, another under the hand of Mr.
John Menzies, Professor, of his proficiencie in the stuclie of Theologie, a
third under the hand of the brethren of the Exercise of the Garrioch,
where he now resides, of his Christian behaviour and cariage during his
abode with them, is appoyntecl the nixt clay to be in readiness to stistaine
the tryall of the Languages, Greek and Hebrew.
[c? cases of discipline}
At Alfoord, Apryl 2, 1673.
Mr. William Murray being absent, Mr. James Oare sustained the
tryall of the Languages, Greek and Hebrew, and was approven, but
exhorted to study the Hebrew more exactlie. The nixt meeting is
appoynted to be this day twenty dayes at Cabrach, in regard the
Presbytrie had received a letter from the Lord Bishop, of the dait
at Edinburgh, March i, earnestly desyring them to take as speedy and
exact notice as they could of ane emergent done by Mr. John Irving,
minister of Cabrach, against Alexander Stewart his pariochoncr, in ex-
comunicating him without processe or warrand from the Lord Bishop,
and therby warranting them to suspend the said Mr. John Irving from
the exercise of his ministrie, till the nixt Synod, if, after tryall, his
cariage should be found such as was represented in a letter subscribed
under the hands of a certaine number of the congregation of Cabrach, and
incloysed in the Lord Bishop his lyne to the Presbytery, and Mr. John
Irving is appointed to be summoned litera scripta to be present this day
twenty dayes at Cabrach, to hear and see probation ledd against him in
the said matter, and Alexander Stewart is appoyntecl to have his
wittnesses sumoned tymeouslie to the said day.
BE
194 RECORDS OF TIIK MKKTING
Mr. Patrick Copland delate Agnis Farquhar, for revyling and cursing
himself, in saying base rascal, the vengeance of God be upon thce. He
is appoynted to cause sumond her to the nixt meeting at this place.
[<? cases of discipline]
At Cabrach April 23, 1673.
There was no exercise or referrs, safe that which was recomended by
the Lord Bishop to the Presbytrie, anent Mr. John Irving, his cariage to
Alexander Stewart. The Presbytrie being mett, Mr. John Irving and
Alexander Stewart being called, compeired, and Alexander Stewart gave
in the exccutiones of literall sumonds given to the witnesses after follow
ing viz. John Clerk in Reedford, Alexander Robertson in Belchilie,
John Mackanla in Lesmurdic, John Smith in Ardwell, James Thomson
in Over-Charrach, Robert Clerk in Netherhowbog, John Roy and James
Kellis in Brackla, John Scot in Oldownie, James Clerk in Howbog, John
Gordoune in Larg, James Gordoune in Ennercharrach, all within the
parochine of Cabrach, and William Couper and John Strachan in the
parochine of Glenbucket, and Alexander Couper in the parochine of
Keirne, who being called, all compeired, and Mr. John Irving being
desyred to give in exceptioncs (if he had any) against any of these
persones, why they might not be admitted wittnesses against him in this
matter, did except against John Clerk, John Mackanla, John Smith,
James Thomson, James Clerk, and James Gordoune, who were all
•rejected as wittnesses against the said Mr. John, but had nothing to
object against any of the rest, they first giving their oath de calumnia,
which, in his hearing, they did, and afterwards being sworn, both parties
and wittnesses were removed, and witnesses called in as followes, John
Gordoune being under oath proved the lybell in terminis.
Alaster Couper, being under oath, proved the lybell in terminis.
William Couper, being under oath, proved the lybell in terminis.
John Strachan, being under oath, niJiil probat.
James Kellis, being under oath, deponed that he heard Mr. John
Irving deliver Alexander Stewart by name into the hands of the divel,
but knew not certainly if it was done in the same words of the lybell.
John Scot, being under oath, proved the lybell in terminis.
OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. IQ5
Alexander Robertson, being under oath, proved the lybell in terminis.
The Presbytrie, finding the matter sufficiently proven, did call in the
parties, and sumoned them apud acta to compeir befor the Presbytrie
this day 20 dayes, at Alfoord, to hear the sentence of suspension past
against Mr. John Irving, according to the Bishop his warrand. And Mr.
James Oare is appoynted to pass his questionarie tryall the said day.
At Alfoord May 14, 1673.
There was no meeting of the Presbytrie, in respect Mr. George
Watson, Mr. Walter Ritchie, Mr. John Walker, and Mr. William
Thomson did only conveene, the rest having sent lynes of excuse
relevant. Wherfor the nixt meeting is appoynted to be this day fourth-
night, and Mr. James Oare to passe his questionarie tryall, as also Mr.
William Murray being so long postponed, since the last appoyntment
anent him.
Mr. John Irvine and Alexander Stewart being present, were sumoned
to be present at the nixt meeting, for the effect forsaid.
At Alfoord May 28, 1673.
Mr. William Murray, and Mr. James Oare sustained their questionarie
tryall, and were both approven. The nixt meeting is appoynted to be
this day 20 dayes, and Mr. William Murray to have ane Exegesis De
paedo-baptismo, and Mr. James Oare to distribute his theses De Eucha-
ristia sub utraque specie.
Anent the referrs of Kinethmont, no report, the minister being absent.
The ministers of Alford, Keig, Towie, Clatt, Tillinessle, and Glen-
bucket reported that they had celebrat the sacrament of the Lord's
Supper on the 30 of March, and the ministers of Touch, Kildrumic, and
Auchindore reported they had celebrat it on the 13 of Apryl, and the
ministers of Lochel and Strathdone reported they had celebrat it on the
27 of Apryl, and the minister of Forbes reported he had celebrat it on
the 1 8 of May, which they all did by themselves, safe the minister of
Towie by his lyne, being absent.
The Presbytrie received a letter from the Lord Bishop, in order to Mr.
I96 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1673
John Irving his suspension from the exercise of his ministrie, desyring
them to delay the pronouncing of the sentence, if they found any just
ground of a farther demurr, and in respect the sentence had been for
these 5 weeks delayed, and now not finding any just ground of a farther
delay, they did pronounce the sentence, according to their warrand of the
dait, at Edinburgh, the first clay of March 1673 yeirs, wherupon Mr. John
Irving did give in his appeall from this sentence of the Presbytrie, to the
Lord Bishop, and Synod, notwithstanding of which, the Presbytrie did
appoynt Mr. William Thomson, minister at Auchindore, to goc to
Cabrach, upon a Lord's day, and intimate the sentence to the people.
Mr. Patrick Coupland, minister at Cushnie, being appoynted by the
Presbytrie to baptize a child, being weak, as was alleadged, did refuse to
obey. The Presbytrie taking his disobedience to consideration, appoyn
ted him either to obey, or submitt himself to censure, and he being
willing to submitt to censure was removed, and being called in, refused
also to undergoe their censure, wherupon the Presbytrie did referre him
to the Lord Bishop and Synod for censure.
The privy censure past on the respective brethren present, but
nothing worthie of censure observed.
[12 cases of discipline}
At Alfoord June 18, 1673.
Mr. William Murray delyvered his Exegesis De paedo-baptismo, and
distribute his theses upon that subject, and was approven. The nixt
meeting is appoynted to be this day moneth, and Mr. William Murray to
sustain the dispute of his theses, as also Mr. James Oare is appoynted to
have his Exegesis De EucJiaristia siib utraque specie, having, according to
the former ordinance, distribute his theses upon that subject this day.
The minister of Auchindore reported that he had gone to Cabrach,
and intimate the sentence of suspension against Mr. John Irving after
sermon, and that Mr. John Irving did enter his protestation, taking
instrument in the hand of one Robert Finla, notar publick.
Mr. William Christie is appoynted to supplie the vacancie at Cabrach
one Lord's day, betwixt and the nixt meeting.
[6 cases of discipline'}
1673] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 197
At Alfoord Julie 16, 1673.
Mr. James Oare delyvered his Exegesis De EucJiaristia sub utraque
specie. His censure is suspended till the nixt dyet, that he sustaine the
dispute of his theses. This day also Mr. William Murray sustained the
dispute of his theses, and is approven. The nixt meeting is appoynted
to be this day moneth, and Mr. James Oare to sustain the dispute of his
theses.
Mr. William Christie reported that he had gone to Cabrach on Lord's
day was eight dayes, and supplied the vacancie.
The Presbytrie considering that Robert Cheyne at Kinethmont was
old and infirme, and not able to keep the meetings of the Presbytrie, and
sins and scandals were more and more increasing in that place, thought
fitt to appoynt some of their number viz. Mr. George Melvil, Mr. Robert
Irvine, and Mr. Thomas Garden to goe to him betwixt and the nixt
meeting, that they might be acquainted with the state of his affaires, and
hear from him what was of concernment for assisting him in his doctrine
and discipline, and, if needfull, that the Presbytrie should meet in that
place.
This day Mr. Thomas Garden is appoynted to goe to Cabrach
betwixt and the nixt meeting.
[// cases of discipline]
At Alfoord August 13, 1673.
Mr. James Oare sustained the dispute of his theses, and was approven
in this and the former tryall. The nixt meeting is appoynted to be this
day moneth, and Mr. William Murray to have ane Exercise and Addi
tion, on the following matter of the Exercise I Corinthians i. 3.
The brethren comissionat to go to Kinethmont, reported that they
had gone, and that the minister, Mr. Robert Cheyne, declaired to them,
that, although he was weak in bodie, yet stood not in need of any helper,
being able to discharge all the parts of his calling, which he again de
claired befor the Presbytrie this day. The brethren considering that this
his single testimonie of himself was not sufficient, without the testimonie
of his elders, and better part of the parochine, did appoynt him to have
T98 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1673
his session book in rcadincs against the nixt cnsueing Synod, and to be
rcadie to receive what, by advyce and comand, should be imposed on the
Presbyterie, in order to the visitation of his church.
Mr. William Thomson, minister at Auchindore, is appoyntcd to
supplie the vacancie at Cabrach one Lord's day, betwixt and the nixt
meeting
Mr. Robert Cheyne declaired that he had celebrat the Sacrament of
the Lord's Supper May 18, and excused himself for his former long
absence, by reason of weakncs of bodie to travell.
[10 cases of discipline]
At Alfoord September 10, 1673.
Mr. William Murray had an Exercise and Addition on i Corinthians
i. 3, and was approven. The nixt meeting is appoynted to be this day
20 dayes, and Mr. James Oare to have ane Exercise and Addition on the
following matter of the Exercise.
Mr. George Watson, minister at Lochel, did delate William Kerre,
contumacious to their discipline for Sabbath breaking, by ordinary dis-
haunting of the Church, and customarie drinking. He is appointed to
sumond him to the nixt meeting-
o
(Also case of Sabbath breaking from Tillinessle.)
[75 cases of discipline}
Mr. Wm. Thomson, Clerk to the Presbytrie.
17 October 1673.
This Presbytrie bulk of Alfurd approven by the Lord Bishop and
brethren of the Synod.
Mr. Al. Forbes, Clerk to the Synod of Aberdeen.
(NOTE.— The above entry, i;th October, should come after next minute, but it is inserted here
in Alford Record.)
1673] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD.
At Alfoord October i, 1673.
Mr. James Oare hade ane Exercise and Addition on I Cor. i. 4, and
was approven. The nixt meeting is appoynted to be the second day of
the ensuring Synod, at King's Colleclge Church, in Old Aberdeen.
Anent Agnis Farquhar in Cushnie, scandalous for revyling and
cursing the minister, who reported that he had sumoned wittnesses
against her to this day, to witt Thomas Bandinne, Jeanc Rosse, and
Margaret Rosse, and the said Agnis Farquhar being sumoned the former
day apud acta to be present this day, was called, and compeiring, and
the wittnesses were called also, who lykewyse compeired, against whom
she having nothing to object why they might not be admitted wittnesses
against her, were sworne, and deponed as folio wes : —
Thomas Bandinne, being sworne, nihil probat.
Jeane Rosse, being sworne, deponed that she heard Agnis Farquhar
say to the minister, hang yourself, the vengeance of God upon you.
Margaret Rosse, being sworne, deponed that she heard Agnis
Farquhar say, hang yourself, the vengeance of God upon you. The
Presbytrie finding her guiltie of censure, appoynted her to sitte downe
on her knees befor the Presbytrie, and acknowledge her sinne, and crave
God and the minister pardone, as a part of her censure, which she did, as
also to appear befor the congregation, and confesse her sinne, and on her
knees to crave God and the minister pardone, which she promised to doe.
And Mr. Robert Irvine, minister at Towie, is appoynted to goe to
Cushnie, and receive her satisfaction.
Anent William Kerre in Lochel, Sabbath breaker, the minister
reported that he was fugitive, wherfor the brethren are appoynted to
make search for him within their respective bounds, and to report the
nixt day.
[ij cases of discipline}
Referres of the Synod of Aberdeen
Holdcn by the Right Reverend father in God, Patrick, Bishop of
Aberdeen, in the King's Collcdge of Old Aberdeen, October 1673, and
begunne the 14 day therof.
2OO RECORDS OF THE MEETING
Sess : i°. October 14 post meridiem.
Sermon being had in the fornoonc by Mr. George Strachan, minister
at Old Aberdeen, the fornoone being spent befor ending of the sermon,
the brethren now appoynted to meet at the ordinarie place, in the King's
Colledge, at 3 o'clock in the afternoone, and being mett, after invocation
of the name of God, the roll of the ministers names was called, the
absents netted, and visitors appoynted for the severall Presbytrie books,
and brethren appoynted for the privy conference.
A nott was taken by the Lord Bishop out of the severall Presbytrie
books, what ministers have given the comunion since last Synod, and
who not.
It is appoynted that evry Presbytrie, once a year, shall visit their kirk
session books within their respective bounds.
It is appoynted by the Lord Bishop and Synod that the moderators
of each Presbytrie give up to the Lord Bishop, ane list and roll of evry
licenced preaching young man, within their bounds, and that to-morrow
at the nixt meeting.
Sess : 2°. October 1 5 ante meridiem.
The Lord Bishop, with consent of the Synod, ordaines that the
severall Presbytries within their respective bounds search if there be any
expectants who ordinarly help any ministers, and yet are not authorized
by the Bishop, and have ane care in tyme to come, that none have
libertie so to doe, untill the Bishop be acquainted, and his order obtained
theranent.
The Lord Bishop and brethren have taken to consideration, that
many Students of Divinitie are admitted to tryalls, in order to ane
licence to preach the gospell in the severall Presbytries in this Diocesse,
when they have not taken up ane competent tyme in the studie of
Divinitie, not having spent full four yeirs in that studie after their gradu
ation, directly contrarie to the Acts of the Synod made theranent, and
this being ane occasion that many are entered who are not fitted nor
qualified for that office ; for eschewing of this inconvenient in tyme
comeing, it is appoynted that, befor any offer to enter upon tryalls, it be
sufficientlie testified that they have been full four yeirs graduat befor,
and have imployed their tyme in the Studie of Divinitie, and be first
OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 2OI
examined in privat by the moderator, and one or more of the brethren to
be chosen by the Presbytrie cvry yeir, to concurre with the moderator,
in that affair, first severallie, and afterwards joyntly, and if they find them
not qualified, to hinder them from tryall in publick, untill they stuclie
furder, and withall, the method formerly prescrybed in tryalls be kept,
and that, with the tryall of the Languages, there be a care had to
examine upon the grounds of positive and catechetick Divinitie, and the
second day for the questionary tryall, to question them upon Scripture,
how they understand the difficult places, the generall tract of Church
Historic, stating of controversies in polemick Divinitie, and upon
casuistick Divinitie, and that no young man enter upon tryall in publick,
till, after the said publick examination, they be recommended by the
moderator and other brethren who have examined them in privat.
It being represented to the Lord Bishop and Synod that certaine
expectant Students of Divinitie, who are entering to their tryalls, have
not given obedience to the Presbytrie where they live, of their comunicat-
ing of the Lord's Supper, it is ordered by the Lord Bishop, with consent of
the Synod, that the minister where such persones live, be requyred to give
testimonie concerning them, that they have comunicat, or otherwyse not
to be admitted to their tryalls, or, if they be already entered, to stopp
their tryalls, untill the tyme that such testimonie be presented.
Anent preachers, it is appoynted by the Bishop, with consent of the
Synod, that they keep all the meetings of the Presbytries within whose
bounds they reside, if they be not hindered by their attendance of ane
charge, and that they use their gifts in exercising in the Presbytrie per
vices with the brethren of that Presbytrie.
It is ordered by the Lord Bishop, with consent of the Synod, that
cvry minister put in execution the Act of Parliament made September
n, 1672, Act 22, intituled, Act against profanes, after the forme and
tenor therof in all poynts.
Scss : 3°. eoclem die post meridiem.
The said day, it is ordered that the Presbytries within this clioces be
more carefull than formerly in takeing notice within their sevcrall bounds
of Session books, and to try in visiting them if they specific the dycts of
preaching, the preacher's name, the text, the dyets of catcchizeino-
CC
2O2
RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1673
baptisme, burialls, and marriages, and if thcr be a register of their
collcctiones, distributioncs, and of the penalties, and if any of the forsaid
particulars be wanting that the said register be not approven.
It is ordered by the Lord Bishop, with consent of the Synod, that all
those who are licenced to preach, and yet exercise civill offices, such as
nottors, and clerks of courts, and keepers of Innes, be noticed, and their
names be represented to the nixt meeting, which is to be kept in Januaric
nixt, that course may be taken theranent as effeirs.
It being found necessar by the Lord Bishop, and brethren of the
Synod, that visitationes of kirks be more frequentlie made than has been
heertofore, it is thcr for ordered that those kirks following be begunne at,
with all convenience, to be visited, viz. : Logiedurno, Montkeigie, and
Inverurie, in the Presbytrie of Garrioch, Ellone, within the Presbytrie of
Ellone, and Kinethmont within the Presbytrie of Alfoord, and for that
effect, that the wholl brethren of each Presbytrie be present at each
visitation, within their owne respective Presbytrics, at those kirks within
their own precincts, at the dayes and dyets respective after following,
with the other brethren after mentioned of other adjacent Presbytries,
who are appoyntecl to attend the said visitationes for their assistance
viz. : for those kirks within the Presbytrie of Garrioch, the brethren of
that Presbytrie, with the assistance of Mr. George Melclrum, and Mr.
Patrick Sibbald, ministers at Aberdeen, Mr. Adam Barclay, minister at
Keig, Mr. John Strachan, minister at Tarves, who are appoynted to meet
and visit the forsaid kirks in the Presbytrie of Garrioch, and their first
dyet to be at Inverurie, the first Tuesday of Februarie nixt ensuing, and
at Montkeigie, the Wednesday nixt following, and at Logiedurno the
Thursday nixt therafter, and that with continuatione of dayes and dyets
as they shall find cause, and to try and examine the respective ministers
their deportments, personall and pastorall, and to report accordingly to
the Bishop and brethren at the nixt Synod : and for the Kirk of Ellone
the brethren of that Presbytrie, with the assistance of Mr. John Menzies,
Professor, Mr. James Gordoune at Banchorie, Mr. George Innes at
Bohelvie, Mr. James Strachan at Oync, and Mr. Robert Reed at Ban-
chrie-trinities, and the dyets of their meeting to be the third Tuesday of
Februarie nixt, with continuatione of dayes ; and as for the Kirk of
Kinethmont, the brethren of the Presbytrie of Alfoord, with the assistance
of Mr. James Strachan at Oyne, Mr. Robert Burnett at Raine, Mr. William
1673] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 20^
Douglas at Midmarre, and Mr. James Rosse at Clunic, and the first dyet
to be the first Tuesday of March nixt, with continuance of dayes ; and
that respective edicts be served, in order to the said visitationes, at the
scverall kirks by the respective Presbytries, who shall send one of their
number to preach the said dayes, and, after the serving of the several 1
edicts, the severall moderators are appoynted to advertise the respective
assessors for keeping of their respective meetings.
Anent mortificationes, the former Act made theranent is appoynted
to be put in practise by the severall Presbytries.
Mr. James Gordoune, minister at Banchrie, having regrated to the
Lord Bishop and Synod, the great trouble he has been at, in observing
the management of the rent belonging to the Professors of Divinitie in
this place, dureing this present vacancie, and haveing requested them
that he might be clisburthened theranent, the brethren of the Synod
haveing professed their earnest desyre that the place so long vacant
should be filled with some qualified person fitted for that effect, the
matter was referred to be thought upon till the nixt meeting, being
to-morrow, at ten o'clock in the forenoonc.
Sess : 4, 16 October ante meridiem.
The busines anent the election of ane Professor of Divinitie being
taken again to consideratione, by the Bishop and Synod, according to
the reference of the last Session, and the brethren professing their cleer-
ness for ane present nominatione of ane qualified person, to the said
vacant profession, and therupon desyring that the nominatione might be
put to a present vott, it was accordingly condescended upon by the
Bishop. Wherupon the severall brethren present did nominat Mr. Henrie
Scougall, minister at Auchterles, to the said profession, without ane
dissassenting voyce.1
Mr. Henrie Scougall, after the forsaid nominatione, did humblie
desyre the Bishop and Synod (in regard the charge wherunto they had
nominat him was of so great weight and moment) that they would be
pleased to grant him ane time of deliberatione theranent till the nixt
Synod, quhilk was accordingly granted.
The Presbytrie books of Alfoord and Deir were approven, and the
respective brethren were removed for censure, and approven.
1 Note 26.
204 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1673
The brethren did put the Lord Bishop in my nd, that there was ane
Act of the last Synod, holden in October 1671, \vherby it was found
expedient that certaine brethren from the several! Presbytries should be
called to meet with the Bishop upon his advertisement, befor Apryl nixt
thcrafter, it being then probable that the meeting in Apryl then ensueing
would, upon certaine weightie considerationes, be adjourned, he had
indicated ane meeting of the brethren to be kept Februarie 14, 1672,
which was accordingly keeped, at which meeting, the Bishop, with
consent of the brethren present, found it expedient that Mr. David Lyall,
minister at Aberdeen, and Mr. James Gordoune, minister at Banchrie,
should be sent comissioners to the Lords of His Majcstie's Privy Coun
sel!, to represent to them the grievances of the Church in this Diocic,
against quakers and papists, appoynting that the forsaid Comissioners
shall have for their expenses ane doller from evry minister of the
Diocesse, to be collected for their use by the respective Moderators of the
severall Presbytries, at their meetings.
Ane supplicationc being presented by George Gordoune, William
Couper, Alexander Stewart, and James Stewart, in the parochine of
Cabrach, in name of the wholl parochine, who could not shew ane
comission therfor, that matter is referred to ane visitatione to be had at
the said kirk of Cabrach.
Sess : 5. Eodem die post meridiem.
The Lord Bishop, with consent of the Synod, having taken to his
consideratione the necessitie of ane publick religious fast and humiliatione
within this Diocess, has therfor ordered, that there be ane publick fast
and humiliatione observed throughout all the congrcgationes within this
Diocess, upon the Lord's day, the twentieth sixt of this instant October ;
the cause being the great abounding of sinne, within the bounds of this
Diocesse, the late and untymeous harvest occasioned through the stormes
of the weather, and the present great danger of the cornes therthrough,
and to supplicat the Lord for ane blessing upon the harvest, and such of
the fruits of the grounds as are not ingathered, and that intimatione be
made by the respective ministers, the nixt cnsueing Lord's day, from
their respective pulpits.
It is ordered that any ministers who have any grievances against
1673] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 2O5
papists or quakcrs, cither bring or send the samen to the Lord Bishop, at
the said meeting, appoynted the last Tuesday of Januarie nixt to come.
It is ordered by the Lord Bishop, with consent of the Synod, that all
those personcs who goe to wells, upon a superstitious designe, shall
be censured by the ministers within whose parochines they live, and the
intimatione therof be made by evric minister from their severall pulpits.
Ancnt Mr. Patrick Coupland, minister at Cushnie, referred by the
Presbytrie of Alfoord, for disobedience to their ordinance, when votted
Presbytcriallie, injoyneing him to baptize ane weak chyld, and for absol-
veing ane man trelapsed in fornicatione upon three daycs appearance
without sackcloath, contrarie to the Presbytrie's order, even when the
guiltincs was aggravated by contumacie. The said Mr. Patrick, appear
ing, and humblie acknowledgeing his failings, and promising to walk
more circumspectly and submissivelie towards the brethren of Alfoord,
was rebuked by the Lord Bishop, and enjoined to walk more circum
spectly in after tyme, with certificationc if he failzie, or fall in the lyke
againe, it shall be looked on as wilful error.
Sess : 6°. October 17 ante meridiem.
It is ordered by the Lord Bishop, with consent of the Synod, that all
expectants who are licenced, shall come \\\ per vices, and preach in the
Cathedral Kirk of Old Aberdeen, that the Bishop may be acquainted
with their abilities ; they who are nearest to this place, in the winter, and
they who are more distant in sumer, according as they shall receive
advertisement fr : Mr. George Strachan, minister at Old Aberdeen, and
those within the Presbytrie of Aberdeen to beginne.
Mr. William Christie, minister at Glenbucket, did rcgratt to the
Bishop and Synod, the meanncs of his present maintenance, and that his
present Stipend is not legallie secured, and withall there have been some
endeavours for annexing the lands of Glcnkindie in Strathdone parochine,
which ly nearer to Glenbucket than to Strathdone, and the lands of
Culquich in Mygvie parochine, and that in the tyme of Mr. David Milne
his incumbencie, there were brethren appoynted for perambulatione by
the Bishop and Synod, but nothing has yet followed. The Bishop did
advysc first to sumond the heritors of Glenbucket befor the Lord
Comissioners for plantatione of kirks, in order to the setling ane locall
206 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1673
stipend, and then to procure ane warrand from the Bishop for pcrambula-
tione, in order to annexatione of these landes of Glenkindie and Culquich
to Glenbucket.
The matter anent Mr. John Irving being taken to consideratione, who
haveing been suspended from the exercise of his ministrie at Cabrach,
from May to this tyme, by order of the Lord Bishop, for his disorderly-
walking towards the Presbytrie of Alfoord, and for pronounceing ane
disorderly sentence of excomunicatione against Alexander Stewart, the
said Mr. John appearing, and humblie acknowledgeing his miscarriage
and failings through rashnes and passionc, and promiseing in God's
strength, to stryve against tentationes, the matter being brought to ane
vott, whether lie should continue suspended, or be reponed to the exercise
of his ministrie at Cabrach, it was concluded that he be reponed to the
exercise of the ministry at Cabrach, with this certificatione, that if he be
found to miscarrie through rashnes or passione, the nixt step of censure
will be weightie, and withall it is appoynted that Mr. Adam Barclay goe
to Cabrach, at his first convenience, on ane Lord's day, and preach to the
people, and rcpone him in the exercise of his ministrie, and declare to
that people that the said Mr. John is now reponed againe, in hope of
amendment, and withall to rebuke that people for their insolent cariagc
to him, and to cause Mr. John to preach a part of the tyme that daye,
and to professe to the people his former failings, and resolutiones, and in-'
gadgements to a better behaviour in the tyme to come.
Sess : 7°. eodem die post meridiem.
It is appoynted by the Lord Bishop, with consent of the Synod, that
there be ane meeting of certaine brethren with the Bishop, at Old Aber
deen, the last Tuesday of Januarie nixt, for taking notice of such referrs
as are not determined in this Synod, and, in particular, concerning ane
appeall given in by Collonell Forbes, a gentleman in the Presbytde of
Deir. The persones who are appoynted to meet with the Bishop of that
dyet are as followes viz. : All the moderators of the severall Presbytries,
with the brethren of the respective Presbytries after-named, to witt, for
Aberdeen Mr. John Menzies, Professor, and Mr. James Gordonej'for
Kincardine Mr. Robert Reid ; for Alfoord Mr. Adam Barclay ;' for
Garrioch Mr. Alexander Rosse, or Mr. Robert Burnet at Raine'; for
l6/3] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 2O7
Kllonc Mr. George Andersonc, and Mr. John Rosse at Fovcraine ; for
Deir Mr. Alexander Reynold ; for Turreff Mr. Alexander Jafray ; for
Fordyce Mr. Alexander Scatone at Bamff, and Mr. William Burnct at
Cullen.
The matter anent takeing of oathes by civill magistrates, befor they
be taken by the Church, referred to the meeting the last Tuesday of
Januarie nixt. The matter anent the resorting to dumb personcs for
the tryall of thift or the lyke, and the matter anent salmond fishing on
the Lord's day are referred to the forsaid meeting, to be thought upon.
It is thought expedient that the severall Presby tries within this
dioces, take notice of the marches of gleibes, whether they are lyke to be
controverted, as also of ministers' stipends within their severall precincts,
and that they record the samen within their respective registers.
It is ordered by the Lord Bishop, with consent of the Synod, that all
ministers, in each Presbytrie, pay in to all burscrs in Divinitie all bygones
rcstand by them, and the half of this present yeir's burse more, according
to use and wont, and that the severall Presbytries insert in their books
the names of all those who shall be deficient therm, as the samen shall be
given up to him.
Alexander Andersone in the Presbytrie of Fordyce, and (blank)
Meldrum in the Presbytrie of Turriff, are recommended to the severall
congregationes within this Diocie, for supplie, and charitable help for ane
yeir to come.
Mr. John Bombathie, Hungarian, is recommended to the brethren of
this Diocie, that they deliver to each respective moderator such help and
charitie as they please to bestow on him, and that to be done the first
Presbytrie day, and sent in by the moderators to Mr. Patrick Sibbald, to
be conveyed to him.
The nixt Synod is appoynted to meet the third Tuesday of Apryl
nixt, 1674 yeirs.
(Then follow names of fugitives from discipline from the Presbytries
of Fordyce, Ellon, and Aberdeen.)
At Old Aberdeen October 15, 1673.
The Presbytrie mctt in the King's Collcdge Church, in Old Aberdeen,
and appoynted their nixt meeting to be at Alfoord November 19, and
Mr. William Murray to have his popular sermon i Timothy 4. 8.
208 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1673
At Alfoord November 19, 1673.
Mr. William Murray had his popular sermon on I Timothy 4. 8, and
was approven. And this being the last of his tryalls, some of the brethren
who were not present at his questionarie try all, desyred libertie to pro
pone some questiones to him, bcfor he was recomended to the Lord
Bishop for a licence, quhilk was granted, and after satisfactione given by
him to the said brethren, he is appoynted to have a rccomendation from
the moderator to the Bishop, for a licence, in order to the opening of his
mouth, for the publick preaching of the gospell. The nixt day is ap
poynted to be this day moneth, and Mr. James Oare to have a popular
sermon 23 psalm, and I verse.
Ancnt Alexander Forbes in Towic, the minister of Kildrummic re
ported that he had satisfied their discipline, according to the sentence of
the Presbytrie, and was absolved November 10.
The respective brethren dcclaircd the}" had observed the publick fast.
[75 cases of discipline]
At Alfoord 17 December 1673.
Mr. James Oare had a popular sermon on Psalm 23. I, and was ap
proven in this, and the rest of his tryalls, and is appoynted to have a
testimonie from the moderator to the Lord Bishop, in order to the
opening of his mouth for public preaching. The nixt meeting is ap
poynted to be this day moneth, Mr. William Burnet at Kildrummie to
have ane Exercise and Addition, on the following matter of the Exercise
i Corinthians I. 5.
Mr. John Mair at Tough delated George Johnstone, contumacious to
their discipline for dishaunting of ordinances. He is appoynted to be
sumonecl to the nixt meeting pro i°.
Mr. Alexander Seatone, son to Mr. William Seatone, minister at
Drumblaitt, presented to the Presbytrie a lyne, under the hand of the
Clerk of the Presbytrie of Tureff, shewing that he was chosen bursar, and
presented by them to that benefice, it being their vice to present, which
was accepted by the Presbytrie.
The privy censure past on the brethren.
1674] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORIX 2CX)
Mr. Adam Barclay at Keig dcclaired that he had gone to Cabrach,
and dcclaired Mr. John Irvine reponed to the exercise of his ministrie
in that place.
[ij cases of discipline}
At Alfoord Apryl 8, 1674.
Since the 17 of December by past, there has been no meeting of the
Presbytric untill this day, in respect the brethren could not travel!,
neither on horse nor foot, through the greatnes of the storme. This day
Mr. William Burnet had ane Exercise and Addition on i Corinthians I. 5,
and was approven.
[75 cases of discipline'}
Mr. William Thomsone, Clerk to the Presbytrie.
24 Apryl 1674.
This Presbytrie buik of Alfoord approven by the Lord Bishop and
Synod.
Mr. Al. Forbes, Clerk to the Synod of Aberdeen.
The Referres of the Synod of Aberdeen, holden by the Right
Reverend Father in God, Patrick, Bishop of Aberdeen, in the King's
Colledge of Old Aberdeen, in the moneth of Apryl 1674, and begunne
the 2 1 day therof.
Apryl 21. Sess : i°. post meridiem.
Sermon being had in the fornoone by Mr. James Garden, minister at
Newmachar, the fornoone &c.
It is recommended to the severall Presby tries, and ministers in this
Uiocic, to enquyre and try for anc woman, who having come from the
North in December last or thcrby, great with child, did returne from the
South about Februarie last, having left ane new-born chyld within the
parochine of Brechine, and being searched after from Brechine, she was
found to have come the length of the Kirk of Newmachar, and was
DD
2IO RECORDS OF THE MEETINC, [1674
designed to he a woman somewhat tall, hard favoured, and gave out her
self by name to be Forbes, and if an}- tryall can be found of her, that
ane report therof be made to the Bishop with the first convenience.
Apryl 22°. Sess : 2°. ante meridiem.
It is ordered that how soone the referrs of this Synod shall come to
the severall moderators' hands, more strict notice to be taken than former-
lie of the absents from Synods, who are not excused, and the reasons of
their absence, and this to be carefullie observed in all tyme comeing.
It is also recomended that how soone these referrs shall come to the
moderators' hands, there be ane charitable collectione at cvry church
within this Diocie, for help and supplie of James Forbes, son to umquhill
Alexander Forbes of Logic, now epiletick, and altogether under infirmitie,
and that each minister deliver in their collectiones to their respective
moderators, who are appoynted to convey the samen to the moderator of
Garrioch, who is to be carefull that the same be imployed for the use of
the said James allenarlie.
It is ordered, that every minister within this Diocie give a sight of
their registers of burialls within their several parochines, to the comissarie
fiscall, or his commissioners or deputs, when requyred, as they will be
answerable, and that the roll of the dead persones be subscrybed, either
by the ministers, or their clerks of Session, and however that the said
roll be sent in to the Clerk of the Synod, to be conveyed by him to the
procurator-fiscal.
April 22. Sess : 3°. post meridiem.
In reference to ane Act of the last Synod, wherby Mr. Henrie
Scougall, minister at Auchterless, was nominat by the brethren of the
Synod to the Profession of Divinitie in Old Aberdeen, and, upon his
desyre, they having given him tyme to advyse untill this Synod, whether
or not he would accept of that charge, it was desyred by the brethren of
his resolutione theranent, who, being enquyred by the Lord Bishop, did,
in his answers, modestlie expresse his sense of the weight of that charge,
and his thoughts of himself, and humblie acknowledge the Synod's
favour in his electione, and did acquiesse in their nominatione, referring
himself to Providence in the issue of these tryalls that were used in such
caices. Wherupon the Lord Bishop and Synod considering that the old
1674] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 211
registers of the Synod, which contain the way of tryall and admissione
of Professors of Divinities in former times of Episcopacie, could not be
found at the present, therfor the Bishop did condescend that the way
which was last used in the tyme of Presbytrie should be observed, but
withall protested that this should neither be a preparative, nor yet pre
judice the former way taken in tymes of Episcopacie ; and therfor it is
appoynted that this day the severall Presbytries should meet, imediatlie
after the dissolution of the Synod, and make choyse of two out of each
Presbytrie, who are appoynted to meet tomorrow, at eight o'clock in the
morning, for prescrybing the subject of the tryalls of the said Master
Henrie.
Apryl 23. Sess : 4. ante meridiem.
It being enquyred at the severall Presbytries, if, according to the ap
pointment of the Synod yesternight, they did meet and nominat two out
of evry Presbytrie, for prescrybing the subject of the tryall of Mr. Henrie
Scougall, minister at Auchterless, in order to his admission to the pro
fession of Divinitie at Old Aberdeen, it is found that all did meet and
nominat their delegates, except the Presbytrie of Kincardine, and they
that were nominat gave in their report as followes viz. that they having
mett for the effect forsaid did nominat for Aberdeen Mr. John Menzies,
Professor of Divinitie, and Mr. James Gordoune minister at Banchrie-
Deavinick ; for Alfurd Mr. George Melvill, and Mr. Adam Barclay ;
for Ellon Mr. John Strachan, and Mr. George Anderson ; for Fordyce
Mr. Alexander Seatone, and Mr. Arthur Strachan ; for Turreff Mr.
Alexander Jaffray, and Mr. John Barclay ; for Garioch Mr. Alexander
Mowat, and Mr. Alexander Lunan, for Deir Mr. Alexander Rynnold,
and Mr. Alexander Rosse, and having constitute Mr. John Menzies,
Professor of Divinitie, moderator, and, because of absence of Clerk of
the Synod, haveing appoynted by vote Mr. John Barclay, minister at
Monquhiter, clerk to the said meeting, after prayer, did appoynt that
the said Mr. Henrie Scougall should have ane common head De objecto
cultus religiosi upon the second Tuesday of August nixt, about two
o'clock in the afternoone, unless the Lord Bishop shall find fitt that some
other day be appoynted ; and that the said Mr. Henry Scougall shall
send his theses to the moderators of the severall Presbytries, to be com-
unicat by them to the severall brethren to be delegat by the Presbytries
212 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1674
for disputeing the said theses, and that this be done twentie dayes, at
least fourteen dayes, befor the day designed, and the said brethren have
unanimouslie appoynted Mr. John Menzies, Professor, preses of the said
meeting. Lykeas the Presbytrie of Kincardine being enquyred why they
had not delegat with the rest for the effect forsaid, declaired they had
not opportunitie of meeting, and did cordiallie homologate what was
done by the fornamed delegatis. The Lord Bishop and Synod takeing
the wholl matter to consideratione did approve what was done by the
for-mentioned meeting, and accordinglie made intimatione therof to the
said Mr. Henrie Scougall, and to be in readines to doe as was prescrybed,
and it is recommended to the severall Presby tries to nominat and
appoynt one or two of their number, with their moderators, to attend the
forsaid meeting, for assisting of the tryall and admissione of the said
professor, and to give their advyse in those things that are referred by
the Bishop and Synod to that meeting.
It is proposed that when Students of Divinitie are to enter upon their
tryalls, there be a testimonie requyred of them, from the Colledge where
they pass their courses, and were graduat, of their coversatione dureing
the tyme they were in the Colledge, and this referred to be more fullie
spoken at the Synod in August nixt
Apryl 23. Sess : 5°. post meridiem.
It is found that the ordinance of last Synod for ane dollar to be payed
by evry minister for the commissioners' charges, that were sent to Edin
burgh, is not yet obeyed, therfor it is ordered that the severall moderators
use their diligence for collecting and inbringing the samen, at said
meeting in August nixt.
It is ordered that when the books of the severall Presbytries are
presented at the Synodes holden in October, that they bear in the end of
them the names of the severall kirks at which comunion was given the
preceeding yeir.
It is recomended to the severall moderators to put their respective
brethren in mynd of that acknowledgement, which, by an Act of last
Synod, was condescended upon to the Clerk and officer, for any thing
they could crave for the three Synodes last that were not keeped, which
was, by the severall moderators, condescended to be one Synod's due for
1674] OF TIIE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 213
all the three that were not keepecl, but that any thing so allowed at this
tyme, upon that accompt, shall not be a preparative for the future in
like exigence, and to cause collect from the brethren that allowance to
be delivered to the clerk and officer, at or before the meeting to be
keeped the second Tuesday of August nixt.
Anent the visitatione of the Kirk of Montkeigie, the diligence of the
brethren appoynted for that end being regratt in the Presbytrie book of
Garrioch, was publicklie read and considered, as also the former appoynt-
ment anent the visitatione of the Kirks of Inverurie and Logiedurno is
heerby renewed, and new dyets and edicts appoynted to be issued out for
that effect, as followes, to witt, it is ordered that the Kirk of Inverurie be
visited the first Tuesday of June nixt, with continuatione of dayes, and
that by the brethren of the Presbytrie of Garrioch, and the other brethren
as assessors to them, mentioned in the Act of the last Synod made ther-
anent, and that the moderator of Garrioch cause give timeous advertise
ment therof to the parochine of Inverurie, and that the said visitors shall
at that tyme condescend what kirk they shall think fitt and most necessar
to be nixt visited, and the tyme therof, and that the moderator cause
advertise the parochine, and issue edicts for that effect, and cause give
advertisement to the brethren that are assessors to the Presbytrie.
Apryl 24, Sess : 6°. ante meridiem.
It is ordered that Presbytries be diligent in going about visitationes
of the kirks within their boundes, and to beginne at those kirks whose
ministers are most frequentlie absent from the Presbyteriall meetings.
It is recomended to all the brethren within this Diocie, who have not
alreadie supplied Mr. John Bombathie, Hungarian, that they deliver such
charitable help as they please to bestow upon him, either to himself, or
to Mr. Patrick Sibbald, minister at Aberdeen, with the first convenience.
Persones recomended by the Lord Bishop and Synod, to the severall
Presbytries and ministers, for ane charitable collectione at the parish
kirks within the Diocie. (Here follow the names.)
Here follow names of fugitives from discipline. Also persones
excomunicat for quakerisme viz. : Alexander Forbes in Auchorthies,
and Anna Seatone, his spous, John Gordoune, in the parochine of
Montkeicie.
214 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [l674
At Old Aberdeen Apryl 22.
The 1'resbytrie mett in the King's Colledgc Church, in Old Aber
deen, and appoynted their nixt meeting to be at Alfoord May 20, and
Mr. Adam Barclay (who succeeded in the exercise) to have ane exegesis
DC perpetua obligatione ct usu sacra inentorum contra Trcinulos.
At Alfoord May 20, 1674.
Mr. Adam Barclay being necessarlie withdrawn to Aberdeen, excused
himself by a lyne, and therfor no exercise this day.
Mr. Adam Barclay, minister at Keig, delated in his lyne, Margaret
Scot for frequent cursing and scolding, being contumacious to their
Session. He is appoynted to cause sumond her to the nixt meeting.
The nixt meeting is appoynted to be the nynth of June, at the
Church of Kinethmont, in order to the visiting of the said Church, and
for that effect Mr. John Walker, minister at Tillinessle, is appoynted to
goe with ane edict to the said Church and parish, and, after sermon, to
cause serve the edict at the Church doore, requyring all heritors, wod-
setters, lyverenters, tennants, and others to be present at the said church
the formentioned day, and this is done by virtue of ane order from the
Lord Bishop and Synod.
[77 cases of discipline]
At Kinethmont June 9, 1674.
After sermon by Mr. Robert Cheyne, present incumbent, minister at
Kinethmont, and that upon Revelation 3, and latter part of the first
verse, the brethren of the Exercise did meet, together with Mr. James
Strachan, minister at Oyne, and Mr. Robert Burnet, minister at Raine,
assessors appoynted by the Bishop and Synod, and having taken his
sermon to consideration did approve him in what he spoke, but unani-
mouslie concluded that he stood in need of a helper. Therafter the
edict being called for was returned, lawfullie execut and indorsit, quhilk
edict being publicklie read at the most patent door of the said Church,
evry person and persones contained therein, who knowes and can prove
1674] OF TIIE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 215
anything that was scandalous in the conversation of the said Mr. Robert
Cheyne, or defective in his doctrine or discipline, were requyred to
appear instantlie befor the Presbytrie, and declaire the samen, assureing
them that, if they compeired not for the effect forsaid, or compeiring shall
keep up or conceall anything they know, or can prove at the present,
alsweell as heerafter, that then, in that caice, they are to have no further
hearing in any such matter, against the said minister, in any tyme come-
ing, and none compeiring, the moderator did call from the said minister
for ane roll of his elders' names, which he did give up, and is as follows,
to witt, James Robertsone in Syd, Andrew Rennie in Slack, William
Moore in Wakemilne of Wardes, William Hay in Seggiedenne, Alexan
der Crookshank in Erlsefield, and John Gordoune in Kirkhill. And then
the moderator did enquyre of the said minister, if he had any exception
to propone against all or any of his elders, that might hinder all or any
of them from being admitted to be examined upon oath, concerning his
deportment either personall or pastorall, he answered he had none, and
did admitt of them all. Wherupon the moderator did declaire to the
said elders, that he was to examine them upon oath concerning those
particulars viz. : i". Whether or not they knew or could prove Mr.
Robert Cheyne present incumbent minister at Kinethmont to be scandal
ous in his conversation. 2°. Whether or not he was diligent in preaching
God's Word to the people of that congregation publicklie, by having two
sermons every Lord's day in the Sumer, and one in the Winter, and
whether or not his doctrine was edifying to them. 3°. If he be diligent
in examining the people, in visiting of the sick, in celebration of the
sacrament of the Lord's Supper. 4°. Whether or not he be diligent and
impartiall in exercising discipline against all scandalous persones that
are conveenecl befor their Session. And therafter, in presence of the said
Mr. Robert, did solemnelie swear them all. Therafter the said Mr.
Robert, and all of them being removed, the said elders were called in
singillatim, and examined upon the forsaid particulars : Who deponed
that they neither knew nor could prove anything scandalous, in the said
Mr. Robert his conversatione, and, as to the duties of his calling, they
deponed that he preached twise evry Lord's day in the Sumer, and once
in the Winter, but his inarticulat speaking hindered somewhat their
edification, as also they deponed that he was diligent in catcchiseing the
people, in visiting the sick, in celebration of the Lord's Supper, and in
216 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [16/4
exerciseing of discipline, though not so able, through infirmitie of old
age, to discharge these duties as was necessarie. Wherupon being
further demanded if they judged him to stand in need of a helper, they
all answered that they thought he did, and would be the better of one.
When the said Mr. Robert was called, and enquyred anent his present
provision of stipend, glebe, manse, grasse, and mosse, who declaired his
stipend ycirly to be three hundreth merks of money, three chalder of
victual!, and the small vicarage, which was decreeted to him for two hun
dreth merks, and that he was sufficiently provided with a gleeb, manse,
and mosse, but had no grasse, wherfor he is appoynted to use legall
diligence against the heritors for his provisione theranent.
Anent the Schoolmaster, the minister declared his name Mr. George
Birnie, who being present was enquyred if he had any exception to pro
pone against the minister, or all, or any of the ciders, that might hinder
them from being admitted to be examined concerning his conversatione,
and discharge of duties as Schoolmaster at this place. He answered
negativelie, and did admitt of them all. Wherupon the said Mr. George
being removed, the minister together with the elders were examined con
cerning him, who did all declaire that they knew nothing to be scandalous
in his conversatione, or defective in his discharge of dutie as School
master at this place.
Anent the Session book, the minister declaired that he had no book-
but scrolls, for which he was rebuked, and appoynted to get a book, that
it might be visited.
Anent the utensiles of the Church, the minister declaired that they
had two comunion tables, a laver of tiune, two cups of tiune, and a table
cloath, all belonging to the Church.
Anent the fabrick of the Church, and Church Yard dykes, they are
found to be somewhat ruinous. Wherfor the Presbytrie did appoynt
the minister to use legall diligence against the heritors for repairing of
them.
The Presbytrie did make choise of Mr. George Melvill moderator,
Mr. Adam Barclay, and Mr. Robert Irvine, for trying of young men
befor they enter upon tryalls in publick, according to the Act of the late
Synod.
The rcferrs of the Presbytrie are continued till the nixt meeting,
which is appoynted to be at Alfoord July 8, and Mr. Adam Barclay to
1674] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 2i;
have his Exegesis De perpetua obligatione et usu sacramentorum contra
tremulos.
At Alfoord Julie 8, 1674.
Mr. Adam Barclay had anc Exegesis De perpetua obligatione ct usu
sacramentorum contra tremulos, and was unanimouslie approver! in the
samen.
The respective brethren declaired that they had observed the 29th of
May by preaching.
The privy censure passed on the brethren.
The nixt meeting is appoynted to be this day twentic dayes, and in
regard Mr. William Garrioch, Student of Divinitie within the bounds of
the Presbytrie, was this day recomended to the Presbytrie by severall of
the brethren, for entering upon his tryalls in order to publick preaching,
having produced a testimonie under the hands of the Professors of
Philosophic of King's Colledge, in Old Aberdeen, of his profkiencie in
the studie of Philosophic, and graduation, together with testimonies
under the hand of the Professor of Divinitie, and respective brethren
with whom he did reside since his graduation, was appoynted to be in
readines the nixt day to sustainc the tiyall of the Languages, Greek
and Hebrew.
\_i8 cases of discipline]
At Alfoord Julie 29, 1674.
Mr. William Garrioch sustained the tryall of the Languages, Greek
and Hebrew, and was approven.
The nixt meeting is appoynted to be this day moneth, and Mr.
William Garreoch to sustaine the questionarie tryall.
[ij cases of discipline}
At Alfoord September 2nd, 1674.
The Presbytrie mett, being eight dayes after the day appointed, by
reason Barthol fair in Kincardine of Neil happened to be that day, not
withstanding they had appoynted formerlie a moneth to be betwixt the
EE
2i8 RECORDS OF THE MEETING
last Presbytrie and this for shun ing that day. The meeting of the
Prcsbytrie, this day was by advertisement from the moderator.
Mr. William Garrcoch sustained his qucstionaric tryall, and was
approven.
The nixt meeting is appoyntcd to be this day twenty dayes the 23 of
September, and Mr. William Garrcoch is appoyntcd to have ane Exegesis
De infallibilitatc Ecclesiae, and to distribute his theses upon the said
subject.
[/p cases of discipline]
At Alfoord, September 23, 1674.
Mr. William Garreoch had ane Exegesis De infallibilitate Ecclesiae,
and was approven, as also he delivered his theses upon the samen subject
to the respective brethren, to be dispute at the nixt meeting at this place.
Mr. William Christie, minister at Glenbucket, did delate John Watson
and William Watson, for breach of Sabbath, by goeing to the wood, and
bringing home barks on the Lord's day. He is appoyntcd to cause
sumond them to the nixt meeting, they being declaired contumacious by
the Session.
The Presbytrie did refcrre the matter anent some persones who
refuse to partake of the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper, meerlie upon
account of malice, for advyce to the Lord Bishop and Synod.
The Presbytrie did referre the matter anent persones who use on the
Lord's day to dry cloaths, stretch out webs and linnens, to the Lord
Bishop and Synod, for their advyce theranent.
The ministers of Keig, Clatt, Towie, Kildrumie, and Glenbucket
reported that they had celebrat the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper on
Easter, as also the ministers of Alfoord and Auchindore reported that
they had celebrat the Holy Eucharist on Pentecost. The minister of
Touch reported that he had celebrat it on the sixt of September. The
minister of Kinethmont reported that he had celebrat it on the fyft of
Julie. The minister of Tillinessle reported that he had celebrat it on the
26 of Julie. The minister of Cushnie reported he had celebrat the same
on the 24 of May. The minister of Forbes reported he had celebrat the
same on the 22 of Julie.
\2i cases of discipline}
Mr. Wm. Thomonsone, Clerk to the Presbytrie.
1 674] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 2IQ
At King's Colledge of Aberdeen 9 October 1674, this Presbytrie buik
of Alfuird approven by the Lord Bishop and Synod of Aberdeen.
Mr. Al. Forbes, Clerk to the Synod of Aberdeen.
The Referres of the Synod of Aberdeen holden by the Right
Reverend Father in God, Patrick, Bishop of Aberdeen, in the King's
Colledge of Old Aberdeen, in the moneth October 1674, and begunne
the 6 day thereof.
October 6 Sess : r. post meridiem.
Sermon being had in the Kirk of Old Machar, by Mr. Alexander
Seatone, minister at Banff, the fornoone, &c.
Sess : 2. October 7, ante meridiem.
The Act of the last Synod anent those who are absent from Synods
not being excused, ordaining that the reasons of the absents their absence
be strictlie examined by moderator at the privie censure, renewed.
Sess : 3°. eodem die post meridiem.
It being represented that, in severall parochines, the money is taken
out of the kirk boxes for upholding the fabricks of the churches, it is
ordained that whatsoever of the said money is imployed for that use, ane
accompt shall be kept therof in their registers, untill the nixt stent of the
parochine for reparatione of the church, that then it may be repayed by
the heritors, for the use of the poor.
The brethren of the Presbytery of Alfoord were removed, and they
and their session-book approven.
Sess : 4. October 8, ante meridiem.
It is ordained by the Bishop, with consent of the Synod, that accord
ing to the Act of the last Synod, the several Presbytries shall be diligent
in visitatione of churches within their respective bounds, for the better
accomplishing wherof, there was a paper presented to the Synod, con
taining directiones for visitation of churches, and for the privat tryall and
220 RECORDS OF THE MEETINC [1674
censure of ministers in the respective Presbytries. Which paper being
publicklie read, and seriouslie considered, after mature deliberation, was,
by the vott of the Synod, approven ; and appoynted to be made use of,
in their respective visitationes and privat censures.
It is ordered by the Lord Bishop and Synod, that full copies of the
forsaid directioncs anent visitation of churches and privat censure of
ministers, shall be transmitted to the severall Presbytries, with the other
referrs of this Synod, that they may be read and made use of at their
privat censures, and that evry minister may provyde himself tymeouslie
of a copie therof, under the clerk's hand of their respective Presbytries,
but that the registration therof in their Presbytrie books be forborne till
the nixt Synod, that it may be furthered considered if it be expedient
that anything be added thcrto, or altered therm.
The Lord Bishop and Synod taking to consideration, that there are
severall particular affairs, which cannot be convenientlie determined at
this Synod, have therfor appoynted ane meeting to be keeped at Old
Aberdeen, the first Monday of October next, with continuance of dayes,
and those who are appoynted to meet then with the Bishop are the
moderators of all the Presbytries, the wholl Presbylrie of Aberdeen, with
so many of the brethren of the Presbytrie of Ellone as can keep that
dyet, and if any of those moderators, from sicknes, or any other neces-
sitie, be absent, that one be appoynted in his place to keep dyet.
Anent the insolencie of quakers, referred to be taken to considera-
tione at the same meeting in October nixt.
It is ordained that John Menzies, Professor of Divinitie in New Aber
deen, James Gordoune, minister at Banchorie, together with the ministers
of New and Old Aberdeen, shall meet upon the Bishop's call, to take ane
accompt of the rents belonging to the Professor of Divinitie in King's
College, Aberdeen.
It is ordered, that, at the meeting in October nixt, the forsaid persons
imediatelie above-named, shall take into consideration the caice of per
sons who withdraw from participatione of the sacrament of the Lord's
Supper, that something may be determined anent them at that meeting,
or in the nixt Synod.
Anent the paying of ane dollar by each minister for the comissioners'
charges, that were sent south to the secret counsell, it is ordered that
evry moderator collect the same from their severall brethren, at their first
1674] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFOKD. 221
Presbyteriall meeting, and send it to Mr. Patrick Sibbald, who is appoyn-
ted to collect the samen.
It is ordered that evry minister shall come in tymeouslie to their
respective Presbytries, and those who come late to be censured, unles
that the excuse be found very relevant.
It is ordered that, upon the last Wednesday of Februarie nixt 1675,
there be ane day of publick fasting and humiliatione, throughout all the
Diocie, that solemne supplicatione may be made unto God, for ane bless
ing upon the approaching seed tyme, and this to be intimate from the
severall pulpits, on the Lord's day imediately preceiding.
The Lord Bishop having caused call the catalogue of the ministers'
names the last Session of this Synod, the absents names were appoynted
to be sent, with the referrs, to the severall Presbytries, that the absents
may be censured accordinglie.
It is ordered that, when the severall Presbytrie books are sent in to
the Bishop to be revised befor each Synod, that the copies of the referrs
of the last Synod be sent in therwith.
At Old Aberdeen October 7.
The brethren of the Presbytrie did meet in the King's Colledge
Church in Old Aberdeen, and appoynted their nixt meeting to be at
Alfoord November 4, and Mr. William Garrioch to sustaine the dis
pute of his theses De infallibilitate Ecclesiae.
At Alfoord November 4, 1674.
None of the brethren did meet (by reason of the tempest of weather)
safe Mr. Adam Barclay, and Mr. John Mair with the Moderator, therfor
there could be no meeting of the Presbytrie this clay. The nixt meeting
is appoynted to be this day eight dayes, and the Exercise ut supra, and
the absent brethren of the Presbytrie to be advertised of this dyet by a
lyne from the Moderator.
At Alfoord November 11, 1674.
Mr. William Garrioch sustained the dispute of his theses De infallibi
litate Ecclesiae, and was approven. The nixt meeting (by reason of the
222 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1674
shortnes of the day, and the great distance of some of the brethren from
the Presbytric) is appoynted to be this day five weeks, and Mr. William
Garrioch to have ane Exercise and Addition on the following matter of
the Exercise I Corinthians I. 5.
According to the Act of the late Synod, the Moderator did requyre
ane dollar from each minister now present, for paying the comissioners'
charges, who were sent south to the secret counsell. Some promised to
give it, and some not.
\_i6 cases of discipline}
At Alfoord December r6, 1674.
Mr. William Garrioch had ane Exercise and Additione on I Corinth
ians i. 5, and was approvcn. The nixt meeting is appoynted to be this
day five weeks, for the cause befor mentioned, and Mr. William Garrioch
to have ane popular sermon on Revelation 14. 13.
[/</ cases of discipline}
At Alfoord Januarie 20, 1675.
Mr. William Garrioch had a popular sermon on Revelation 14. 13,
and was approven in this, and the rest of his tryalls, and appoynted to
have a recomendation from the moderator to the Lord Bishop, in order
to the opening of his mouth for publick preaching. The nixt meeting is
appoynted to be this day moneth, and Mr. Alexander Garrioch, Student
of Divinitie, within the precinct of the Presbytrie, being dcsyrous to have
a subject prescrybed to him, as a specimen ingenii, was appoynted at the
nixt meeting to have a comon head De natura et efficacia sacramentorum.
The nixt day the privy censure is appoynted to passe on the respec
tive brethren, and they exhorted to be present.
[16 cases of discipline}
Mr. Alexander Garrioch had ane comon head De natura et efficacia
sacrainentoruDi) and was approven. The nixt meeting is appoynted to
be this day moneth, at Cushnie, for a visitatione of that church, in
regard the minister of that place had of late mett with a barbarous
OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 223
act done against him by some, in killing of his horse in the stable,
and cutting out the tongue of his cow standing in the byre on the
night, and did suspect one John Garrioch, whom he had laterlie ex-
comunicated, having this presumption against him, that when processe
was appoynted to goe on against him, he said judiciallie, whosoever
should processe him should find frost in it, as is recorded in this register
of the Presbytrie, page 174. The minister desyring a recomendation
from the Presbytrie to the Lord Bishop, his Ordinarie, that he might be
pleased to recomend him to the judge competent for criminall letters,
the Presbytrie thought fitt first to call a visitation at his Church, that
they might know how the case stood betwixt him and his parishioners,
that therafter they might be the more cleer, how to recomend him to the
Lord Bishop, he earnestlie desyring the same.
Mr. John Irvine of Cabrach did delate John Mill, Christian Marno,
Elspet Morice, Robert Mackie, John Stewart, John Craig, and Thomas
Roy for running out of the Church befor closour of divine worship. They
are appoynted to be sumoned the nixt meeting.
The privy censure past on the brethren, but nothing censurable
observed, safe that Mr. William Christie was sharplie rebuked for his
absence from the last Session of the Synod, and his frequent absence
from the Presbytrie, and Mr. John Irvine advysed to peace with his
parochioners.
The Presbytrie received a lyne from the Lord Bishop, appoynting
them to supplie the vacancie of Kerne, by reason of the present incum
bent his sicknes, and infirmities of bodie, in obedience to which, the
Presbytrie appoynted Mr. William Thomson, minister at Auchindore,
and Mr. William Christie, minister at Glenbucket to supplie the vacancie
on Sabbath day come eight dayes, and Sabbath day come twentie dayes,
betwixt and the nixt meeting.
Mr. Walter Ritchie is appointed to preach at the nixt meeting at
Cushnie, and failing him (becaus now absent) the moderator.
Mr. Adam Barclay presented to the Presbytrie a division of the kirk
of Keig, approver! by the Lord Bishop, and by the brethren of the
Presbytrie, comissionat by him for that effect, desyring that it might be
insert in the Presbytrie register ad futuram menwriavi, which was granted,
and is as after followes :~
324 RECORDS OF Tin: MEETING
At Kcig the fourth day of June the year of God 1674 yeirs.
The said day, by virtue of a comission from the Right Reverend
Father n God, Patrick, by the mercie of God, Lord Bishop ° Aberdeen
of theda.t at Old Aberdeen, the fyft day of December ,673 yehfcon
veened at the Church of Keig, Mr. Robert Irvine minister at To fe M
William Burnet minister at Kildrumic, Mr. Walter Ritchie minister at
Forbes Mr. John Walker, minister at Tillinessle, and Mr. 'Adam Bar
t hree "fT" * ?"*' "* ** wUch (Orsd <°™-°° «>ey or any
th.ee of them were authorized to proceed to the division and partition of
the Church for the accomodation of the several! heritors and pariochoncrs
accordmg to then- interests in their roomes, for attending the pub, k
ordmances. Ane edict lawfuliie executed and indorsed being called
whcrby the forsa.d heritors, pariochoners, and others having or pretend
rng mterest were warned to be present the said day for Lt effect
Compe.red al, the heritors of the pariochine, to win, William Lo d
Forbes, James Gordoune of Terpersie, John Forbes of Leslie George
W, son of l,nc,Zach James Farquhar of Tulioch, and the said Jame
Gordoune of Terpers,c, ,„ name of William Gordoune of Balgowen.beTng
minor and W.lham Reid of Pittendreich, with diverse others parishoners'
who be,ng cnquyred by the forsaid Comissioners, whether t was S
;r .f there was any necessitie for proceeding to the partition and
dis ribution of the roomes of the said Church, James Farquhar of
Tulioch declared that there was a necessitie for it, and that he had ju°t
reason to complaine, that, having the greatest interest in the said paroch-
me, saving the laird of Terpersie, he had not so much roome as to sett up
"hat' 'was r r6 f!™lfeI.The laird °f TW l>'kewise declairecl
hat , h,s desyre that a d.v.sion should be made for his better accomo-
dat,on, ,n regard he had not ane equal! proportion of roome answerable
to h,s rent w,th,n the parochine, wherunto evry one of the rest of the
heritors did freehe declair that they did consent. Only William Reid of
dre.ch.gave ma protestation against the same, wherof the tenor
follows: Forsomeikle as there is ane division of the kirk of Keig at
Ke,g the 23 day of June ,673 yeirs, wherin the wholl heritors of the safd
parochine and annexed lands are aecomodate, and thcrfor seeing there is
a new ed.ct .ssued by Patrick, by the mercie of God, Bishop of Aberdeen
1674] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 225
for a new division of the kirk, therfor seeing all heritors have their pro-
portiones alloted in the former division, therfor I protest against any
present division, and appeall to any superior judge competent for that
effect, and in testimonie I have subscrybed thir presents with my hand,
at the kirk of Keig, the fourth day of June 1674 yeirs. Sic subscribitur,
W. Reid. On the other hand, James Farquhar of Tulloch protested that
the said comissioners should proceed, and that the forsaid protestation
made by William Reid should be no impediment therunto, and that
because, first, the former division alleaclged was not, nor is presumed to
be a formall nor equall division, adjudging to evry heritor his due pro
portion, but was onlie intended for the present accomodation of the
annexed lands. 2dlie. In regard though it had been intended as a perfect
division, yet the heritor of Tulloch being at that tyme minor, and his
lands within the parochine then liverented by Mr. Thomas Gordoune of
Pittendreich, and none present at that tyme to represent Tulloch, the
said division was made without his consent, and therfor he, or his repre
sentatives now might be heard, and have redresse of what injurie they
have sustained by the said pretended division. 3dlie. Wheras it is alleadged
in the forsaid protestation, that all the heritors have their proportiones
alloted them in the former division, the contrarie is manifest, for there is
therin no mention of any localitie or proportion for the heritors, or
tennants of the lands belonging to the laird of Tcrpersie, or to the good-
man of Balgowen, or to the goodman of Pittendreich, but onlie that they
should continue in the roomes prcsentlie possessed by them, wheras it is
knowne that the dask belonging to Pittendreich is not now in that roome
which was then possessed therby. 4"°. Because none can judge that
which is alloted by the forsaid pretended division to the lands of Tulloch,
to be a just proportion, havcing therby but about four foot in the wholl
church, wheras others who have not the size of the rent possesse much
more, and particularlie the goodman of Pittendreich, possesseth eight
foot, whose rent is little above the third of the rent of Tulloch. 5''°.
Because none can judge it reasonable that Tulloch should be obleidged
to uphold about the fyft part of the wholl fabrick by his rent, and not
have half so much roomc allowed him as one who is not obleidged
by his rent to uphold the fourteenth part of the fabrick of the said church,
and finallie, the said protestation of William Reid ought to be no impedi
ment to the procedour of the forsaid comissioners, in regard the said
FF
226 RECORDS OF THE MEETING
William hath not thcrin appealed to any ccrtaine judge, or judicatorie,
before whom the matter may be discussed, but leaves the same unccrtaine,
and thcrfor the said James humblie desyred, and protested, that the said
comissioners should proceed, according to their comission, wherby he
might have accomodation. The said comissioners having heard both
parties, and having seen the extract of the former pretended division,
and having seriouslie considered the reasonableness of the said James
Farquhar his dcsyre, and protestation, resolved to proceed, and to this
effect, call for a new rentall from the said heritors, which having been
formerlie agreed upon (as followes) was given in by them viz. the Lord
Forbes his rent within the said parish being five hundreth sixtie eight libs. ;
the laird of Terpersie's rent, six hundreth seventic eight libs.; the laird of
Leslie's rent, two hundreth fourty six libs. ; Tulloch's rent five hundreth
and fiftic libs.; Findzach's rent, four hundredth sixtie seven libs.; Pittcn-
dreich's rent, two hundreth libs. ; and Balgowen's rent, one hundreth
nyntie eighth libs., Scots monie ; according to which they desyred the
Church to be measured and clivyded, excluding the roome for the pulpit
and minister's desk, as not to come under measuring and division, but to
stand as they were in the south side of the Church, betwixt the Church
door towards the west end, and the window at the east side of the pulpit
and so their proportiones to be alloted to them accordinglie. And so
the wholl Church within the walls being measured (excluding as said is)
extends to one hundreth and nynteen foot of Scots measure. And the
heritors being desyred to make selection of their roomes, conforme to
their rents ; All with one consent (except William Reid, who had
removed himself befor) yeelded that the Lord Forbes should continue in
the possession of his loft, and roome under the same, in the East end of
the Church, for himself and tennants, as he presentlie possesseth the
same. And to the rest, according to the forsaid measure, their severall
proportiones are desygned, and allotted to them as followes viz. : to the
laird of Terspersie for his owne dask from against the chamfret on the
east syde of the window which joynes to the pulpit, eight foot Eastward ;
to James Farquhar of Tulloch, for his dask Eastward from Terpersie's
roome, seven foot, issue and entrie being to the left, betwixt his and
Terpersie's dask ; to William Gordoune of Balgowen, from James
Farquhar's roome, Eastward under the Lord Forbes his loft, to the South
east corner of the Church, being his wholl proportion for himself and
1674] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 22/
tennants ; to William Reid of rittcndreich, from two foot and anc half
by East the comou loft upon the north syde of the Church, eight foot and
two inches, extending Eastward to betwixt the eleventh and twelfth
couples, being his wholl proportion for himself and tennants ; to George
Wilson of Eindzach, from thence Eastward upon the same syde of the
Church, for his dask, seven foot and fyvc inches, extending to the laird
of Eeslie's dask, between the fifteenth and sixteenth couples, leaving issue
and entrie betwixt his and Pittendreich's dask, with which proportion he
declaircd himself satisfied, both for himself and tennants ; to the laird of
Leslie close from George Wilson's dask Eastward, ten foot for himself and
tenants, extending three foot eastward under the Lord Eorbes his loft ;
to the laird of Terpersie his tennants, from the chamfret of the West
window on the South syde Westward to the corner, and Northward to the
west gevill of the Church extending to betwixt the sixth and seventh
josts of the comon loft under the said loft, numbering northwards, with
issue and entrie on themselves ; to Tulloch's tennants from thence to the
northwest corner, and thence to the stair of the loft, under the comon loft
on the North syde, and on the South syde from the door Westward to the
midle of the westmost window. The which forsaid division and parti
tion, as is above designed, being made, and evry one's proportion and
roome thus assigned unto him, the said comissioners did intimate the
same to those present, giving them right, by virtue of their comission, to
possesse the same in all tymc comeing. Wherewith the said heritors
were weel satisfied. And so in confirmation of the premisses, the said
Comissioners have subscribed the same with their hands.
Sic Subscribing Mr. John Walker.
Mr. W7alter Richie.
Mr. Robert Irvine.
Mr. William Burnet
Mr. Adam Barclay.
We, Patrick, by the mercic of God, Bishop of Aberdeen, having seen
and considered the above written accompt of the comission given by us
to our reverend and beloved brethren Mr. Adam Barclay, Mr. Robert
Irvine, and Mr. William Burnet, for sctling the accomodatione of the
several! heritors and parishioners of the kirk of Keig, according to their
228 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1675
respective interests in their roomcs, for attending the publick ordinances,
doe approve of the cair and diligence of the said Comissioners, and their
wholl proccdour in that affaire, and doe order that the above written
accompt, together with our approbation therof, be rcgratt in the Presby-
trie book of Alfoord ad futnrani rei memoriam. Given under our hand,
at Old Aberdeen, the twentie seventh day of Januarie 1675 ycirs.
Sic Subscriber 1'at. Bp. of Aberdeen.
The moderator did put the brethren present in mynd of the Act of
the late Synod, ordering that, on the last Wednesday of this current
Februarie, there be ane day of publick fasting and humiliation, through
out all this Diocic, and appoynted that the said clay should be observed
by them, according to the said Act
The Presbyteric appointed Mr. Patrick Coupland, minister at^Cushnie,
to make intimation of the visitation of the said church two Lord's dayes,
immediately preceding the same, and to invite all to the worship.
At Cushnic March 17, 1675.
Mr. Walter Ritchie preached on Romans 10. 15, and, after sermon,
did requyrc the heritors, elders, and masters of families to attend the
visitatione. Therafter the Presbytrie mett, and after prayer, Mr. Patrick
Coupland having declaired that the visitatione was intimat to the con
gregation, gave in a list of the elders of the Session viz. Patrick Gordoune
of Halheid, Alexander Tais, William Tais, James Morgane, Robert Rosse,
and Alexander Milne, who being called upon by name, and the heritors
and master of families desyred to stay, the wholl order for visitatione of
churches was publicklie read ; After which the minister being removed,
and those of the heritors, elders, and masters of families who were
present, being interrogatt, if there was anything in the deportment of
their minister which did offend them, answered, negative. After this,
the elders being one by one posed upon all the particulars, relating to
the discharge of the minister his dutie, sett cloune in the forme of visita
tione of churches, answered positivclie, and that they could object nothing
to the contrarie.
Therafter, all being removed (except the members of the Presbytrie)
1675] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORI). 22Q
the minister was called in, and such interrogatories as concerned the
most substantiall and necessarie duties of his ministrie and convcrsatione,
which are contained in the forme of visitatione, were proposed to him,
all which he answered that he used his best endeavourcs, though he came
short of what he ought to doe.
Therafter the heritors and masters of families being called in, and the
elders only removed, the minister wras interrogat anent their diligence,
who answered that he knew nothing in which he could have one or all of
them to be admonished. After this, the elders being called in, the
minister was further interrogat T. If there were any mortifications in
that parish, who answered negative. 2°. If there was a schoolmaster, to
which he answered negative, whcrfor the heritors were seriouslie delt
with, for the amendment of this defect. 3". If the fabrick of the Church
and Manse was sufficientlie repaired, to which he answered, that they
were for the present. 4°. If he had a sufficient stipend, gleeb, and grasse,
f°C"Sage> fcwall, faill, and divott, conforme to the legall allowance, he
answered that he had a glceb but scarce sufficient, that he had foggage,
fewall, faill, and divott, but little grasse, and that he had fyve hundreth
merks all money by a decrcet of yeirlie stipend. He is appoynted to
provyde himself according to law of what he wanted of gleeb or grasse.
5°. If there were requisite utensilcs and furniture for administration of the
Sacraments, he answered there was a lavarre for the Sacrament of bap-
tisme, and communion tables for the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper,
but no cupps, nor table cloaths. After all which, the minister was
exhorted to diligence and faithfullncss in all parts of his office, and
requyred to renew his ingadgement therto.
The heritors, elders, and masters of families were exhorted to prayer
and reading of the holy Scriptures in their families, and to excite their
children and servants to pray in secret, and a promise requyred of them
for their best endeavours therin.
The elders were exhorted to walk unblameablie, and assist the
minister in the exercise of discipline, and to be faithfull in all the poynts
of their dutie, and requyred to renew their promise theranent.
The Presbytrie thought fitt to call the referres of this place, which
are as after follows.
The Presbytrie thought fitt to referre the privat censure of those of
the brethren who were absent, the last day and now present, to the nixt
230 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1675
meeting, at the ordinary place, which is appoynted to be this day twentic
dayes, and Mr. Thomas Garden to have ane Exercise and Addition on
the following matter of the Exercise, who being this day absent the
clerk of the Presbytrie is ordained to advertise him of this appoyntment.
This day, the Presbytrie appoynted Mr. George Watson and Mr. John
Mair to supplie the vacancie of Kerne, March 28, and Apryl 4.
At Alfoord Apryl 7, 1675.
No exercise in regard Mr. Thomas Garden declaired that, since he
got advertisement, he had been much taken up about the preparation for
the celebration of the sacrament of the Lord's Supper, and could not
have spare thoughts about ane Exercise befor the Presbytrie, which
was judged relevant. The nixt meeting is appoynted to be the second
day of the ensueing Synod, in the King's Colleclge Church in Old
Aberdeen.
(Mr. Walter Ritchie, and Mr. Andrew Abercrombie's privy censure.)
Mr. William Thomson, minister at Auchindore, declaired that he
had supplied the vacancie there for one day, as he was appoynted, by the
Presbytrie, and Mr. William Christie being asked if he had done the
lyke, answered negative, being that week called to Aberdeen, upon a
peremptor, but that he had excused himself at my Lord Forbes his
hands, wherfor he is appoynted to supplie that vacancie on Sabbath day
come eight dayes.
The brethren of the Presbytrie declaired that, upon the last Wednes
day of Februarie they had observed ane public Fast, according to the
Act of the late Synod.
The Presbytrie did referre to the Lord Bishop the matter anent those
persones who had sett about their servile work upon the day of the
publick fast and humiliatione, for their advyce anent their censure.
Mr. Wm. Thomsone, Clerk to the Presbytrie.
22 Apryl 1675.
The Presbytrie buik of Alfurd is approven by the Lord Bishop and
Synod of Aberdeen.
Mr. Al. Forbes, Clerk to the Synod of Aberdeen.
l6/5] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 231
The Referres of the Synod of Aberdeen, holden by the Right
Reverend Father in God, Patrick, Bishop of Aberdeen, in the King's
Colledge Church, in the moneth April 1675, and begunne the twentieth
day therof.
April 20, 1675. Sess : i°. post meridiem.
Sermon being had in the Kirk of Old Machar, by Mr. Henry
Scougall, Professor of Divinitie, the forenoone, &c. Therafter, the
brethren for visiting the Presbytrie books, and privie conference, were
nominat.
Apryl 21. Sess: 2°. ante meridiem.
The Direction for the visitation of Churches, which was presented at
the last Synod, and approven, was appoynted to be rcgistratt in the
Provinciall and Presbytrie Registers within this Diocie, with some
additions and alterations which were also publicklie read, and approven,
and now insert therein.
F'ollowes the tenor of direction for visitatione of Churches.
That, on the Lord's dayes preceeding the visitation of each parochine,
intimation therof be made to the congregation, and all invited to be at
the worship, and that the heritors, elders, and masters of families be
required to attend the visitatione, and that some of the ministers of the
Presbytrie be tymeouslie appoynted to preach at the said dyet, and
another of them appoynted to be Clerk to the said visitatione.
After prayer, the minister haveing declaired that the visitatione was
intimat to the congregatione, he shall give in a list of the elders of the
Sessione, who shall be called upon by name, and the heritors and
masters of families shall be desyred also to stay.
Befor further procedour, the wholl Order for visitatione of Churches
is to be publicklie read, that also they who arc present may know how
farre they are heerin concerned, and understanding the minister to be
obliclgcd to such offices, they may be the more willing to admitt of them
from him.
After this, the minister being removed, these of the heritors, elders,
and masters of families that are present, shall be interrogatt, if there be
anything in the deportment of their pastor which does offend them, and
232 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1675
that they be exhorted, if there be no publick scandall (which they are
able to make out) given by him, to impairt that wherwith they are
dissatisfied to one or more of the brethren of the Presbytrie, and to the
Bishop (if present) that he may be warned and admonished therof, and
that also they all may be advertised that no private failings in their
minister be publicklic allcadged against him, untill they have either repre
sented it to himself, and to the Bishop, and to some one or two of the
bretheren of the Presbytrie, and he admonished therof, least they insnare
themselves in the transgression of the law of Christ, which provydes that
we tell our brethren their offences to themselves in privat, and afterward
befor two witnesses, befor we declair them to the Church.
After this, the elders being requyrcd to answer, as it becomes ingenu
ous and honest men in such trust and place shall, be interrogatt one by
one (all others being removed) in presence of the heritors and masters of
families as followes, i ". If there be preaching on the Lord's day and how
often ; 2 . If the minister preaches to their edification, and be carcfull in
reproveing sinnc, both privatlic and publicklic, especiallie these sinnes
which most prevaill among the people ; 3°. If he keep at home, not
stirring abroad iinnecessarilie ; 4". If his conversatione be without light-
nes or vanitie, grave and exemplarie in pietie ; 5". If he doe, without
necessitie resort to taverns ; 6". If he administrat the sacrament of the
Lord's Supper, and how often in the yeir ; /". If he be carefull to debarr
from it all such as are scandalous ; 8". If discipline be diligcntlie and
impartiallic exercised ; 9'. If he be carefull to visit the sick when he is
informed, and called therto ; io\ If he be a good example to the people
in ordering his owne familie ; 11°. If he visite the townes and families in
his parochine, and excite them to pietie and familie duties ; 12". If he be
diligent in catcchiseing, especiallie in takeing paines to prepare young
persones befor they partake of the Lord's Supper ; 13°. If he be carefull
to maintaine and promote peace and love among all people, and to
reconcile these that are at variance.
And because, beside the testimonie of others, it is also necessarie that
the minister have a good testimonie from his own conscience, thcrfor,
theraftcr the minister being called in, and all (except the members of the
Presbytrie) removed, such interrogationcs arc to be proposed to him as
concerne the most substantiall and necessarie duties of his ministrie and
conversatione, particularlie these after following: i°. If there be preach-
16/5] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 233
ing on the Lord's day, and how often ; 2°. If in his preaching all
unedifying discourses be avoyded ; 3°. If the explication of such articles
of the Christian faith as are most necessarie to be knowne be most
insisted on ; 4°. If the great and indispensable duties of Christianitie be
frequentlie recommended and pressed ; 5°. If the sinnes that most
prevaill among the people be frequentlie reproved ; and finallie, If all
this be done in a plaine and intelligible manner, and decent expressions,
without affectation of strange words.
2°. If diligence be used for informatione, anent the dispositione and
deportment of particular persons within his charge ; 2°. If he, on all
occasions, endeavour to instruct, exhort, and rebuke as he finds cause ;
3°. If he use his faithfull endeavours to awaken such as are careles,
irreligious, and profane, for their reformation and amendment ; 4°. If he
encourage these in whom he findeth ane inclination to godlines and
Christian virtues, and direct them to the proper meanes for advancing
themselves in holines ; and 5°. If he endeavour to prevent the spread of
errors, and in particular of Poprie and Quakerisme, among his flock, and
to informe and establish them in the truth who stand, and recover them
who are fallen.
3°. If he keep at home, not stirring abroad unnecessarilie ; 2°. If his
conversation be without lightnes, vanitie, grave, and stayed ; 3°. If he
avoyd and discountenance all profane, and irreligious practises ; 4°. If he,
in his deportment with these under his charge, beheave himself humblie
and lovinglie, that they may the more willinglie, upon all occasions,
address themselves to him as the guyd of their souls; 5°. If he endeavour,
in all Christian virtue, to be an example to his people, keeping himself
from everything that savours of pryde, passion, covetousnes, intemper
ance, and sensualitie ; 6°. If he shunne unnecessarie resorting to taverns.
4°. If he administrat the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper, and how
often in the year ; 2°. If he debarre from it all such as are ignorant
and scandalous ; 3°. If, in tyme of administratione, he shunne all imper
tinent (though at other times profitable) discourses, suggesting breflie to
the communicants what is proper to that busines.
5°. If as often as parents resort to him for the benefit of baptisme to
their children, he put them in mynd of their owne baptismal vow to live
Christianlie, and of the obligatione lying on them to bring up their
GG
234 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1675
children in the knowledge and fear of God, and that they be carcfull
in due tyme to put them to Schooles.
6°. If discipline be diligentlie and impartiallie exercised, and that
without needles procrastinationc or delay, for removing of scandall ; 2".
If, in privat, he deall earnestly with penitents, to bring them to a true
sense of their sinne, and doe not absolve any, or admitt any to partake of
the Lord's Supper, untill some probable signes of repentance be seen in
them.
7°. If he visit the sick when once informed of their sicknes ; 2°. If he
use his endeavours to awake in them a sense of their sinnes, that they
may be humbled for them, confesse them, and repent of them, and have
recourse to God, through Jesus Christ, for pardon ; 3°. If he stirre them
up (if God shall lengthen their dayes) to live more Christianlie ; 4°. If he
exhort them to patience under the hand of God, and cheerfull submission
to His will ; 5°. If he represent unto them the happie estate of them that
die in the Lord, and the miserie of such as die in their sinnes ; 6°. If he
suggest unto them what is proper for lousing their affectiones from the
world, and to begett in them a livelie hope of the glorie of heaven ; 7 .
If he exhort them to forgive all that have wronged them, and to satisfie
these whom they have offended, and to make restitution if they have
gotten anything by fraud or violence ; 8°. If he exhort them to frequent
and fervent prayer, he himself praying with them, and for them ; 9°. If
he exhorts them (as he sees need) to make a just, prudent, and charitable
distribution of their goodes, and to consider the poor, if their estate can
yeeld anything for their supplie ; 10°. If he frequentlie visit these who
are under infirmitie of bodie and sickness, confyned to their beds or
houses; 11°. If he show the lyke cair and compassion on the fatherles,
poor, and widow, prisoners, and such lyke as are under any hard
difficultie, under his charge.
8°. If he visite each familie yearlie, or oftner (if the families be few)
and recommend to them the great and indispensable duties of Christi-
anitie, and the true and proper meanes of perfecting holiness in the fear
of the Lord ; 2°. If, in his visitatione, whither the masters, with such of
the familie as are of age, make a conscience in takeing the sacrament of
the body and bluid of Christ, when it is in their offer, and whither the
parents are carefull in putting their children to Schooles, and to instruct
them, and their servants in the knowledge of God, and put them to
16/5] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 235
prayer, morning and evening, in secret ; If the holy Scriptures be fre-
quentlie read in the familie by the master of the familie, or (if he himself
cannot read), by some other that can doe it ; If there be familie prayer
used morning and evening ; If there be any person received in the
familie without testimoniall presented to the minister ; If he doe
seriouslie exhort them to attend the preaching of the Word, and
publick worship of God, especiallie on the Sabbath, and excite them to
sanctifie the Lord's day throughout, and if he enquyre if any be disorder-
lie in any of these ; If, after these and such lyke inquiries, he seriouslie,
prudentlie, and loveinglie apply his admonitiones, exhortationes, and
directiones, to the master and others of the familie, as : their condition
doth requyre.
9°. If he himself be a good example to the rest of the people in order
ing his own familie, and in constantlie performing all familie duties
therein.
10°. If he catechise these of his parochine at least once a year, takeing
the most convenient season for it, and not putting off till a few weeks
befor the Communion ; 2". If he take notice of all the persones (of whose
knowledge he hath not sufficient proof) of their knowledge in things of
religion that are most necessar to be done by all ; if he put them to
rehearse the belief, the ten Commandments, and the Lord's prayer ; if he
try their knowledge of the sinne and miserie of man, examining also
what care they have, or resolve to have, for performing these conditiones
on which we must be saved by the Redeemer, and about the meanes of
obtaining grace from God, for enabling them to performe what is
requyred.
11°. If, befor the admission of young persones to the sacrament of the
Lord's Supper, he endeavour to begett in them a true sense of the obliga
tion lying on them by being baptized into Christ, to renounce the divell,
the world, and the flesh, and of their resolutione to serve and obey him,
and endeavouring to persuade them to yeild ane advysed and expresse
consent to adhere to their vow for ever theirafter.
12°. If he mantaine and set forth, as much as in him lyeth, quietnes,
love, and peace among all Christianes, especiallie among them that are
committed to his charge.
These queries are to be proposed, not as if it were to be presumed
that every minister doth attaine to perfection in these duties, (for who is
236 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [167 5
able for these things?) but that we ought to excite one another to studie
to goe on to pcrfectione, and, by sense of obligatione to dutie, that they
may be quickened to conscientious diligence therin, and humbled for
their failings which may fall to be through humane infirmities which
come not under the censure of man.
Then the heritors and masters of families being called in, and the
elders onlie removed, the minister shall be interrogat concerning their
diligence in delateing of scandalles, assisting him in the exercise of
discipline, and representing the condition of the poor and sick in their
severall quarters, and if ther be anything in which he would have any of
them admonished.
Afterwards, the ciders being called in, and spoken to anent the
minister's testimonie concerning them, the heritors, ciders, and masters of
families being present, the minister shall be interrogat further, first, if
there be any mortificationes, and what they are, for what end, and how
improven, if due consideratione be had of the poor, and if they be sup
plied by a due distribution of what is provyded to that effect.
2°. If there be a School in the parochine, and what encouragement
ther is for a Schoolmaster ; 2°. What diligence is used for moveing
these who have their children come to age to put them to School ; 3". If
anything be allowed to the Schoolmaster, out of the poores money, for
teaching the poor Schollers ; 4°. If the Schoolmaster be blameles in his
conversatione ; 5°. If he cause all his schollers learne the Catechisme ; 6°.
If he enjoyne them to learne ane forme of prayer for morning and even
ing, and ane blessing befor and after meat ; 7°. If he chastise them for
cursing, swearing, lying, speaking profanelie, and disobedience to parents,
and other vices that appeare in them.
3°. Ifthefabrick of the church and manse be sufficientlie repaired;
2°. If he have a sufficient stipend, gleeb, grasse, foggage, fewall, faill, and
divott, conforme to the legall allowance ; 3°. If ther be requisit utensiles
and furniture, for administration of the sacraments, and ane inventor
therof to be produced, and keeped in retentis.
That the minister, elders, and masters of families be interrogat what
sinnes and errors prevaill most among the people, which, by their
authentic, they cannot overcome ; whither any withdraw from hearing
the preacher sett over them, and doe either gadd about from place to
place, or stey at home on the Lord's day ; whether ther be any, that, for
1675] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 237
a long tyme, doe forbear the receiving of the sacrament of the Lord's
Supper ; whither ther be any that haunt the conventicles of preachers
legallie deposed ; whither ther ^be any that haunt the conventicles of
quakers ; whither ther be any quakers who disturb the publick worship
of God, or affront the minister by revyling him befor the people ; whither
ther be any that haunt the companie of excommunicat persones ; if their
neighbors, these in their families and tennants repair to the publick
worship and dyets of examination, and in caice it appear that any are
wanting in these things, they be seriouslie exhorted to use their best
endeavours with their neighbors and these under their authentic, to
amend these defects, and that they assist the minister in curbing such
vyces as are prevalent among them, and they be desyrecl to engage
themselves therunto by their promise.
The minister, elders, and masters of families being present, that the
minister be exhorted to be diligent and faithfull in all parts of his office,
and holy in all manner of conversatione, that he may be ane example
and paterne to his flock, and that he be requyrecl to renew his ingadge-
ment therunto.
That the heritors, elders, and masters of families be exhorted to pray
and read the holy Scriptures in their families, and excite their servants
and children to pray in secret, and that a promise be requyred of their
best endeavours therin.
That the elders be exhorted to walk unblameablie, and to assist the
minister in the exercise of discipline, to delate impartiallie all such
scandalles as come to their knowledge, and that they give seasonable
advertisement of the condition of the sick and poor, and that they be
requyred to renew their promise therof.
That the heritors, magistrats of burrowes, and masters of families be
exhorted to use their authoritie for moveing the people, and these in
their families, to repair duelie to the publick worship of God, and attend
the dyets of catechizeing, and to report to their minister when he shall
think needfull to call for them ; that they be lykewyse desyred to give
encouragement to the minister, and that by due and seasonable peyment
of what is provyded for him by law for his mantenance, that he may be
eased of the trouble of craveing it, or of a legall pursuit of it, and of such
other cares as attend wants which are so distracting, and that in all these
they sincerelie promise their faithfull endeavoures.
238 RECORDS OF THE MEETINC,
That if, after tryall, it appear that ther is no Schoolmaster, nor suffi
cient provision for a Schoolmaster, that the fabrick of the Church stand
in need of reparatione, or any necessar and decent furniture for adminis
tration of the sacraments be wanting, or the minister's mantenance be
insufficient, or any of these accommodationes allowed to him by law
be withheld from him, that the heritors be seriouslie dealt with, and, if
need be, that other endcavoures be used for amendment of these defects.
Order for the privat tryall and censure of ministers in their respective
Fresbytries.
Primo. That it be gone about with the first convenicncie after evry
Synod ; that on the Presbytrie day imediatlie befor, advertisement be
given to evry brother of the dyet therof, and the absents be acquainted
therwith by the moderator ; that in the day appoynted for it, it be gone
about befor other parts of discipline, and a competent tyme allowed for
it, that befor they proceed further therin, the Order of Visitatione for
Churches be publicklie read and attentivelie listened unto by all, that a
right sense of their dutie be preserved in their mynds.
That, therafter, these interrogatories be proposed to evrie minister, i°.
If he be diligent in praying and reading the holy Scriptures ; 2°. If he
doe all faithfull diligence to disintangle himself from evrything that may
unfitt him for discharge of his dutie in the ministrie, especiallie from
excessive worldlie affaires, and distracting imployments ; 3". If he order
his familie and evry person therin, (so much as in him lyes) that they be
exemplarie to such as behold their conversatione ; 4°. If he mantaine
and set forth, as much as in him lyeth, quietnes, peace, and love, both
among his brethren, and all Christian people, especiallie among those
that are committed to his charge.
Each minister being thus interrogatt, and after removed, the modera
tor shall ask the rest of the Presbytrie, if anything be knowne to them
of the brother, or brethren, which they think fitt to be imparted to the
Presbytrie.
After all this, the moderator is, in few words, to exhort all to faithfull-
nes and diligence in all parts of their office, and that they be so faithfull
and friendlie one to another that they admonish one another privatlie
when they see cause, and that when they meet with such freedome, they
faithfullie and kyndlie accept of it one from another, and that they lay
1 675] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD.
239
hold on all occasiones to excite one another to faithfullnes, zeal, and
diligence, to all which each of them shall faithfullie ingadge themselves.
If any of the brethren be absent from the tryalls, the next day that
they are present, the reason of their absence shall be strictlie examined,
and, unless the same be found very relevant, they are to be rebuked, and,
however, they are to undergo the privie tryall and censure, after the same
manner with the rest of their brethren, onlie it shall not be necessar to
read again in publick the Order for Visitation of Churches upon their
accompt, but onlie they are to be demanded, whither or not of lait they
have read and seriouslie pondered the samen ; and to this effect evry
brother is to provyde himself ane extract of the forsaid Order for
Visitatione of Churches, and for the privat tryall and censure of minis
ters, with his first conveniencic, from the Clerk of the Presbytrie, for his
privat use.
Which paper being publicklie read and seriouslie considered, after
mature deliberatione, was, by the vote of the Synod, approven, and
appoynted to be made use of in all their respective visitationes and
privie censure.
Eodem die, post meridiem, Sess : 3°.
It is ordered that, at each parish Church within this Diocie, ther be
ane charitable collection for relief of Walter Gibsonc, skipper of the
Marie, in Ennerkeithine, and John Reed, his mate, who are prisoners
with the Turks, in a miserable and pitieful condition, and who are to be
ransomed and relieved with no less than five or six hundred dollers a
peece, and this is recommended by ane Act of Privie Counsell, of dait, at
Edinburgh the 7 of November 1674 yeirs, the Presbytrie of Abdn : hav
ing collected alreadie for the effect forsaid, and that what shall be
collected at each kirk is to be given to the respective moderators, and
delivered by them, (when called for) to Captaine James Bennet at Inner-
keithine, or at his order.1
It is ordered that, when any young men are passing their tryalls, in
order to obtaining a licence for publick preaching, if, in the mean tyme,
there shall be any young man recommended by the Bishop to his tryalls,
in order to his entrie to ane kirk, the tryalls of the young man that is
onlie passing, in order to ane licence to preach, shall cease untill the
other be at a close.
1 Note 27.
240 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1675
It is ordered that such of the brethren as have not peyed in their
doller for the commissioners' charges that were sent South, shall pey it in,
the first Presbytrie day without delay, and if any shall be wanting, that
the severall moderators send in to the Lord Bishop the names of such as
are deficient.
There was a supplicatione presented be William Lynne, in Monlettie,
and Mr. Alexander Lynne his son, for ane charitable supplie to the said
Mr. Alexander, who is heavelie afflicted with a grevious palsie, and his
caice being so considerable, (besydes any supplie that each minister
present is to give him) he is recommended by the Lord Bishop and
Synod to the haill churches, and severall Presbytries, within this Diocie,
and the moderators appoynted to receive it from the respective ministers,
and send it to Mr. George Anderson, Minister at Methlick, to be con
veyed by him to the supplicants.
It being represented that some ministers doe not so carefullie obey
the orders of their respective Presbytries as becomes, for preventing
wherof for the future, it is ordained that, if any shall neglect to obey the
order of the Presbytrie, that the first tyme they shall be admonished, but
if the order be renewed, and they give no satisfactorie excuse why they
have not obeyed it, that the moderator send in ane account therof to the
Lord Bishop.
The book of Alfoord is approven, and the brethren of that Presbytrie
removed and approven.
Apryl 22. Sess : 4th. ante meridiem.
It is ordered that these Presbytries that have not called the School
masters and Chaplaines, within their bounds, to take the oath of
Alleadgance, and promise of Canonicall obedience, doe it with the first
convenience, and that a Copie of the oath of Alleadgence, and promise
of Canonicall obedience, be sent to each Presbytrie, with the referrs of
this Synod.
Followes the Oath of Alleadgance.
I for testificatione of my faithfull obedience to my most
gracious and redoubted Soveraigne Charles, King of Great Brittaine,
defender of the faith &c., affirme, testifie, and declaire, by this my solemne
l675] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 241
oath, that I acknowledge my said Soveraigne onlie supreme governour of
the kingdome, over all persones, and in all causes, and that no foraigne
prince, power, state, nor persone, civill or ecclesiastical!, hath any juris-
dictione, power, or superioritie over the same, and therfor I doe utterlie
renounce, and forsake all foraigne powers, jurisdictiones, and authorities,
and shall, at my utmost power, defend, assist, and mantaine his Majestie's
jurisdictione forsaid, against all deadlie, and shall never declyne his
Majestie's power, and jurisdictione, as I shall answer to Gocl.
Followes the promise of Canonicall Obedience.
doe professe and promise that I will render to my
Ordinarie, Patrick, by the mercie of God, Bishop of Abd :, and his
successors, due Canonicall obedience, and to them to whom the govern
ment and charge is committed over us, following, with ane glad mynd
and will, their godlie admonitiones.
It is ordered that, if any generall recommendationes be given to
supplicants for charitie by any minister, whensoever the said recommen-
datione shall come to the hands of any minister within this Diocie, that
they shall keep them, and present them to the Bishop and Synod.
It is recommended to the brethren that have not helped James
Forbes, in the parochine of Enverurie, con forme to his former recom-
mendatione, that they doe it now, and send their contributiones to Mr.
James Strachane, parson of Oyne, for the use of the said James.
George Ogstoune, epiliptick, recommended for supplie, &c.
It is recommended by the Lord Bishop and Synod to the moderators
and ministers throughout this Diocie, to be carefull that their Presbytrie
Clerks are satesfied for their paines, wherthrough they may be the more
encouraged to goe about their duties.
The meeting of the nixt Synod is appoynted to be first Tuesday of
October nixt to come 1675.
(Here follows list of 14 fugitives from discipline in the Presbytrie of
Aberdeen.)
At Old Abd: Apryl 21.
The bretheren mett in the King's Colledge Church, in Old Abd :, and
appoynted their nixt meeting to be at Alfoord May 19, and Mr. Alexan
der Seatone, bursar of Divinitie to have ane Exegesis De notis Ecdesiae,
T T TT
mi
242 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1675
as a specimen of his proficicncie; at which meeting the brethren gave ane
charitable collection for Mr. Alexander Lynnc.
At Alfoord May 19, 1675.
Mr. Alexander Seatonc, bursar of Divinitie, had ane Exegesis De
notis Ecclesiac, and was approven.
(Case of revyling and cursing the minister.)
(Isobel Chalmer in Touch, contumacious for frequent cursing the
minister.)
Ancnt the supplic of the Church of Kerne, Mr. William Christie
reported, that, in obedience to the Prcsbytrie's order, he rode the length
of Auchindore, upon designe to supplie the vacancie therof, but the
minister of Auchindore declaired to him he had a comission from my
Lord Forbes, to inhibit him from going thither, wherupon he returned
to his owne charge, and for the future, Mr. George Watson is ordained to
supplie that vacancie, betwixt and the nixt meeting.
Elspet McKallane contumacious for cursing of her mother.
The brethren of the Presbytrie designeing to goe on in the course of
visitatione of the severall Churches, appoynted the nixt meeting to be at
Cabrach June 15, and Mr. Thomas Garden at Clatt to preach at the said
meeting, as also for the more specdie accomplishing of their designe, did
appoynt another meeting at Glenbucket June 16, and Mr. Andrew Aber-
crombie to preach at the said place. The Session book of Glenbucket is
appoynted to be visited by Mr. William Burnet, minister at Kildrummie.
At Cabrach June 15, 1675.
There was no meeting, for however Mr. John Irvine, minister of the
place, was tymeouslie advertised of this dyet, and desyred to give notice
of it to his people, by ane edict to be published two Lord's dayes befor
the meeting, yet, upon various pretences suggested to the moderator,
the speaker, and the Clerk, and others of the brethren, he discharged
them from going thither upon the account of a visitatione, and although
he was pressed and requested, by the moderator, to goe along with the
brethren in the former ordinance, yet wilfullie he refused, affirming
1675] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 243
plainlie that, if they came there on such a designe, he would withdraw
himself; and when some of the brethren, who had not gotten notice of
Mr. John his intention, went to the place, they found it so as he had
promised. With this disappoyntment the wholl brethren of the Presby-
trie were dissatisfied, but have referred his censure to the Lord Bishop
and Synod.
At Glenbucket June 16, 1675.
Mr. Andrew Abercrombie preached on I Corinthians 3. 9, and, after
sermon, did requyre, &c The minister gave in ane list of
the elders of the Session viz. William Couper of Miltoune, William
McKcook, Duncan Gordoune, Duncan Kellis, John Alexander, elder,
Alexander Moor, Duncan Morgane, who, being called upon by name, did
compcir, together with the heritors and masters of families. (Then usual
course followed as to minister and elders, and usual exhortations given
to minister, heritors, ciders, and heads of families — see Cushnie p. 228.)
After this, the elders being called in, the minister was further interrogat
i". If there were any mortificationes in that parochine, who answered
that there was onlie one, to witt ane hundred libs :, left in legacic by the
laird of Glenbucket last deceased, for which his son promised to the
Presbytrie to give bond, till he could convenientlie pay it, which promise
was thus cautioned, if it should be found in his father's testament as was
alleadged, professing himself unwilling to cletaine what his father had
bequeathed for the use of the poor. 2°. If there was a Schoolmaster, to
which he answered negative. Wherfor the heritors were seriouslie dealt
with for the amendment of this defect. 3°. If the fabrick of the Church
and manse was sufficientlie repaired, to which he answered that they
were for the present. 4°. If he had a sufficient stipend, gleeb, and grasse,
foggage, fewall, faill, and divott, to which he answered that the stipend
was onlie three hundreth merks eight lesse, and of other things, he had
such provision as the law allowed. 5°. If there were requisite utensiles
and furniture for administration of the Sacraments, to which he answered
that there were two comunion tables, two cupps of tiune, and a lavarre
for the sacrament of baptisme.
The heritors did heartlie regrate that their minister was not provyded
of a sufficient Stipend, and that the rent of their parochine was so small
244 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1675
that it could not allow him a sufficient mantenancc, wherfor they
desyred that a parcell of the nearest adjacent lands, particularlie those
of Glenkindie, might be annexed to their parochine, and that the brethren
of the Exercise would consult the Lord Bishop theranent.
The affaires of the visitatione not being concluded till six o'clock at
night, there were no Prcsbytcriall refcrrs taken in, but such as could not
be superceeded to another dyet, and these were as followes —
Mr. William Burnet gave in the report of the Session book of Glen-
bucket, which was approven by the Presbytrie.
Mr. George Watson reported that he had supplied the vacancie of
Kerne June 12.
The brethren appoyntcd as befor two dyets of visitatione, the first at
Strathdone Julie 13, where Mr. Robert Irvine at Towie is ordained to
preach, the other at Towie where Mr. Thomas Garden at Clatt is
enjoyned to preach, upon the morrow being Julie 14, and the referrs of
the Presbytrie are then to be taken in. The Session Book of Strathdone
is appoyntcd to be visited by Mr. William Christie, and that of Towie
by Mr. William Thomson.
At Strathdone Julie 13, 1675.
Mr. Robert Irvine preached on 2nd Corinthians 12. 20, and after
sermon did rcquyre &c The minister gave in a list of
the elders of the Session, which are as followes, William Forbes of
Skelliter, Alexander Forbes of Culquharrie, John Forbes of Buchain,
Mr. Michael Elphinstone of Bellabeg, Donnald Farquharsone, John
Rosse, John Cordoner, William Allanach, Thomas Michie, George Wat
son, Donnald Moor, Thomas Nerne, Robert Michie, Alexander Taylour,
who being called upon by name, compeired with the heritors and
masters of families who were present. (The usual course followed as to
ministers and elders, and the usual exhortations given to ministers,
heritors, elders, and heads of families — see Cushnie p. 228.)
After this, the elders being called in, the minister was further interro-
gat i°. If there were any mortificationes in that parochine, to which he
answered negative. 2°. If there was a Schoolmaster, and sufficient
provision for his mantenance, to which he answered that there was one,
and for his mantenance, there was allowed him from the parochine eight
1675] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 245
bolls of victuall, and from the Session twentie libs: of money. 3°. If the
fabrick of the Church and manse was sufficientlie repaired, answered that
the fabrick of the manse was somewhat ruinous, but the heritors were
about the repairing of it. 4°. If he had a sufficient stipend, gleeb, grasse,
fewall, fail, and divott, answered that his stipend consisted of eight hun-
dreth merks, that he was not sufficientlie provyded of gleeb, grasse,
foggage, fewall, faill, and divott. Wherfor he presented a comission from
the Lord Bishop, of the dait at Aberdeen June 4, for a legall designation
of all these, and therupon caused call ane edict, which had been lawfullic
execut and indorsit. Therafter, the brethren nominat within the
comission proceeded to the forsaid 'designation of gleeb, grasse, foggage,
fewall, faill and divott, onlie they medlecl not with the inlarging of the
gleeb, in respect it could not be measured till the cornes should be cutt
doune, wherfor the minister protested that what was not done as to the
gleeb might be done when he fand it convenient. 5°. If there were
requisit utensiles and furniture for administration of the sacraments, to
which he answered that they had tables, table cloaths, four cups of thine,
and a laver for baptisme.
The minister regrated that many of his parochine did abstaine from
participatione of the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper, though he invited
and took pains to persuade them therto, as oft as the administratione of
that ordinance did recurre, which was at least once a yeir ; morover he
complained that some of those who were comunicants did utter con
temptuous and blasphemous speeches of that blessed Sacrament, and
instanced one William Dumbar, whose irreverent discourse of the forsaid
ordinance was as followes. This day the minister did invite me to a free
feast without money and without pryce, and yet I was no sooner sitten
doune, than Mr. Michael Elphinstone came and took my eight pennies
from me, and I would have bought as much bread and wyne in Aberdeen
for a babie. Of these the minister reported that he was convict guiltie,
his censure referred to the Presbytrie, and sumoned apud acta to this
meeting. Who being called, and not compeiring, is ordained to be
sumoned pro 2°. to the nixt meeting at Towie.
The report of the Session book of Strathdone was given in by Mr.
William Christie, and approven by the Presbytrie.
The brethren appoynted to meet to-morrow at Towie at ten o'clock
in the fornoone.
246 RECORDS OF THE MEETING
The respective brethren present declairecl that they had observed the
29 May last bypast, by preaching on it.
At Towic June 14, 1675.
Mr. Thomas Garden preached on Acts i. 36, and, after sermon, did
requyre &c The minister gave in a list of the elders'
names, which are these K\van McKgregore, Alexander Kellis, Robert
Mcsser, John Cunnand, and William Anderson, who being called by
name did compeir, with the masters of familes (none of the heritors being
present).
After this, the elders being called in, the minister was further interro-
gat i". If there were any mortificationes in that parochine, who answered
there were three, the first of three hundreth merks sufficientlie secured
upon bond for the use of the poor ; the second in the hands of my Lord
of Forbes a part of which he payed, and continued comptablc for the
rest ; the third is supposed to have been given by the late laird of
Glenkindie, but his son hath not yet acknowledged it, nor undertaken
to secure for it, wherupon it is recomended to the minister to deal with
him theranent ; 2°. If there was a Schoolmaster, and how he was
provyded, to which he answered that there was one, and that he had from
the parochine nyne bolls of victuall for his maintenance, and from the
Session fourtie merks of monie. 3°. If the fabrick of the Church and
manse was sufficientlie repaired, to which he answered positive. 4 . If
he had a sufficient stipend, gleeb, grasse, foggage, fewall, faill, and divott,
to which he answered that his stipend was no lesse than the law allowed,
that his gleeb was full, but wanted of what the law allowed as to grasse,
that he had a designation for foggage, fewall, faill, and divott, but had no
peaceable possession of it. 5°. Whether there were requisit utensiles
and furniture for administration of the sacraments, he answered that he
had onlie two Comunion cups of tiune, a table cloath, and a laver for
baptisme.
(The usual course followed as to minister and elders, and the usual
exhortations given to minister, elders, and heads of families — see
Cushnie p. 228.)
The report of the Session book of Towie was delayed to another
1675] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 247
occasion, in regard it came too late to the hands of Mr. William Thomson,
that he had not leasure to peruse it be for the visitationc.
Margaret Laing, contumacious to their discipline for cursing and
scolding imcdiatlie after the sacrament.
The nixt meeting is appoynted to be at Auchindorc, in order to a
visitatione of that Church, and Mr. William Christie ordered to preach at
thatdyet.
At Auchindore August 18, 1675.
The said day, Mr. William Christie preached on i Timothy 5. 17, &c.
Mr. William Thomson, minister of the place,
gave in a list of the elders of the session, which are as followes, Patrick
Gordone in Auchcnlcith, Arthur Lumsden in Newtounc, Alexander
Smith in Birkenbreul, Robert Reid of Xewmilne, Alexander Gordounc,
John Gordoune, James Gordounc, George Ronald, James Gardner, George
Murray.
After this, the elders being called in, the minister was further
interrogat, i°. If there were any mortificationes in that parochinc, to
which he answered that there were none. 2°. If there was ane School
master, and how provyded, he answered that there never had been any
there, and that the heritors could not agree upon the setling of a pro-
visione for one, in respect they pretended that, by reason of their distance
from the church, many could have no benefit by the school, as to the
educatione of their children. It was therfor seriouslie recomended and
pressed upon them by the moderator, to consider the necessitie and ad
vantage of a sufficient Schoolmaster, both for the educatione of children,
publick reading, and precenting in the church, and to see to the specdie
establishment of one for these effects. 3°. If the fabrick of the kirk and
manse was sufficientlie repaired, to which he answered positivelie. 4". If
he had a sufficient stipend, gleeb, grasse, foggage, fewall, faill, and divott,
to which he answered that his stipend consisted of fyve hundreth merks,
or therabout, and that his stipend was not setled upon tack dutie, by
virtue of tacks of byths, formerlie given by his predecessors the parsons
of Auchindore, further he acknowledged that he had a sufficient gleeb,
but no grasse, foggage, fewall, faill, or divott. It was therfor recomended
to him to provyde the Church of all these necessaries according to law.
248 RECORDS OF THE MEETING
5°. Whether there \verc rcquisit utensiles and furniture for the administra
tion of the sacraments, to which he answered that, since his entrie he had
provyed the Church with a lavcr for the sacrament of baptisme, of two
tables, and as manic cups of tiunc for the holy comunion.
(The usual course followed as to minister and elders, and the usual
exhortations given to minister, heritors, elders, and heads of families — see
Cushnie p. 228.)
The particulars of this visitatione were minuted by Mr. William
Burnet, minister at Kildrumie, the minister of the place being clerk to
the Presbytrie. Therfor that the premisses are conforme to what was
minuted by the forsaid Mr. William Burnet is testified by his subscription.
Mr. W. Burnet, Clerk to the Presbytrie pro tempore.
The respective brethren present being enquyred whether they had
observed the nationall fast enjoyned by the Lords of His Majestie's
Privy Counsel, upon the account of the present dearth and threatened
famine, answered that they all had kept the same.
The nixt meeting is appointed to be at Alfoord September 15, and
Mr. John Irvine is ordained to have ane exercise upon the ordinary
matter, it being now his proper vice, who being this day absent, the Clerk
of the Presbytrie is appoynted to acquaint him tymcouslie of the ordi
nance.
It was seriouslie recomended to the brethren present to meet
tymeously and earlie at Alfoord, the day formerlie appoynted, in respect
they were then to have their privie censure, and the referrs of the Synod
were to be read and recomended to them, both which were unavoydablie
deferred to that dyet, in respect the brethren of the Presbytrie were so
much taken up in their circular visitationes, that they could not spare so
much tyme as these serious exercises did requyre.
Mr. William Thomson preferred to give in the account of the Session
book of Towie, which was deferred to the nixt meeting, by reason the
day was so farre spent alreadie.
At Alfoord September 15, 1675.
There was no exercise, in regard that Mr. John Irvine was absent,
whose vice it was to exercise, notwithstanding that the Clerk of the
l6>5] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 249
Presbytric had tymcouslie acquainted him with the Presbytric's ordi
nance, as this day he reported, and being further asked if he had any
excuse from him, replyed he had none, save onlie that his wyfe being
occasionalie at a mercat at Auchindore, that day imediatlie preceeding
the meeting told him, at her husband's desyre, as she asserted, that he
was not to keep the meeting to-morrow at Alfoord, being to be from
home that day, which was thought fitt to be represented to the Lord
Bishop and Synod, as also that he had very seldom attended, and most
ordinarlic dishaunted the Presbyteriall meetings, notwithstanding of his
solemne ingadgements therto, when the sentence of suspension was taken
off.
All the brethren who had not alreadie payed the cloller for the
Comissioners' charges hath promised without fail to bring it to the
Synod. As for the rest of the referrs, viz. the supplying of the necessitie
of Walter Gibsone and his fellow-prisoners to the Turk, and the other
which requyres the moderator to call chaplaines and schoolmasters to
take the oath of alleadgiance and canonicall obedience, which two are
not yet answered by those of our meeting, the brethren are resolved,
imediatlie after they returne from the Synod, to satisfie both.
The ministers of Keig, Towie, Clatt, Tillinessell, Kildrumie reported
that they had celebrat the sacrament of the Lord's Supper at Easter ;
Mr. William Christie (now absent) on the said day ; the minister of
Strathdone on Apryl 18 ; the ministers of Lochel and Auchindore on
Apryl ii ; the minister of Cushnie on June 27 ; the minister of Clatt re
ported that he certainlie knew that Mr. Robert Cheyne, minister at
Kinethmont, had celebrat the same about the end of June, but he knew
not the particular day.
According to the former ordinance, the privy censure past on the
respective brethren, but nothing found censurable in any of them, either
in their doctrine or conversatione, save only anent Mr. Andrew Aber-
crombie, minister at Strathdone, it was reported by some of the brethren,
that they heard, he, of late, had rode downe the countrie in the companie
of John Garrioch excomunicat in Cushnie, with which the brethren were
verie dissatisfied. Wherfor calling in the said Mr. Andrew, they en-
quyred him into the truth of what had been suggested in this matter, and
he for his owne vindication, and clearing of the Presbytrie, declaired that
he had ingadged to accompanie John Lumsden, brother to the laird of
II
250 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1675
Cushnie to Turrcf about a very nccessar affair, upon whom the said John
Garrioch was attending as a servant at that tyme, and that he had come
ten myles from his home, befor he saw either of them, and how soone he
saw the said John he was highlie offended with the gentleman for bring
ing such a servant along with him, and told him, if he were thus atten
ded, he would abandon his fellowship, but the affair being so necessarie,
and such as could not be exped without him, and the gentleman at such
a distance from his owne hous that he could not comand another
servant, his importunitie prevailed with him to go forward, and since he
was casten into such circumstances, he took opportunitie of the present
necessitic to bring John Garrioch to a sense of his sinne, and the danger
of his present estate, which so farre prevailed with him, that he ingadged
to acknowledge his sinne, and to supplicat the church how soone he
returned for takeing off the sentence of excomunication, that, upon his
repentance, he might be reconciled to the church, and partake of the
benefits of other Christianes. But the brethren being afrayed that his
journey had given offence to those who knew not this good effect of it,
did rebuke him for his inadvertencie, and advysed him with all circum
spection to bewarre of such snares for the future, which accordinglie he
promised.
Mr. William Thomson gave in the account of the Session book of
Towie, which was approven by the Presbytrie, onlie the minister was
advysed to look more circumspectlie to the Clerk of the Session in filling
up of the book, because of some informalities found in it, through his
neglect.
Mr. Thomson, Clerk to the Presbytrie.
6 October 1675.
The Presbytrie buik of Alfurd is approven by the Bishop, and Synod,
and the brethren therof removed and approven.
Mr. Al. Forbes, Clerk to the Synod of Aberdeen.
The Referres of the Synod of Aberdeen, holden by the Right
Reverend Father in God, Patrick, Bishop of Aberdeen, in the King's
Colledge Church of Old Aberdeen, in the moneth of October 1675, and
begunne the fifth day therof.
OF TIIE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 251
October 5, 1675. Sess : i°. post meridiem.
Sermon being had in the kirk of Old Machar, by Mr. Adam Barclay,
Minister at Keig, the forenoone being spent &c.
October 6. Sess : 2°. ante meridiem.
It being found that, in regard of the absence of diverse ministers,
from the Synod, anc satisfactoric account could not at this tyme be had
anent the deficients in payment of their sevcrall proportiones towards
the charges of the Comissioners sent to His Majestie's Privie Counsel, it
is ordered that the moderators of the severall Presbytrics shall, with all
expedition, collect what is yet wanting, from the ministers of their
respective Presbytries, and send the same to Mr. Patrick Sibbald, or
otherwayes the names of such as declyne to pay it, as they will be
answerable.
Eodem die Sess : 3 post meridiem.
It being represented by some brethren, that severall persons are
found, who, in the tyme of their publick profession of repentance for their
scandalls, doe relapse in the same or other scandalous sinnes, and yet
will still professe a willingness to submit to discipline, whilst yet they
continue (for ought that can be seen) stupid and careles, it is therfor
thought fitt, that if the Presbytrie find sufficient evidence of these new
scandalls, or stupid carelesnes under profession of repentance, that, by
order of the Presbytrie, such persons publicklie, and by name, be
publicklie debarred from the benefit of participating the Sacrament of
the Lord's Supper. And for the more orderlie and uniforme way of
performing it, that this be done after the manner following.
In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and at comand of his Church,
I declare A. B. to be unworthie to "partake of the holie sacrament
of the bodie and blood of Christ, and therfor, and in name and
authoritie forsaid, I solemnlie suspend him from fellowship with
the people of God, in the Supper of the Lord, untill he, upon his
repentance, obtaine relaxation from this dreadfull sentence ; as
lykewyse I requyre all the Lord's people to look upon him as
such, that he, being ashamed of his sinne, may seriouslie lay it to
heart, and humblie supplicat for^absolution.
252 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1675
But no minister is to think himself hereby disoblidged from takeing
cair of, or pains upon, such persons, but even after pronounceing of the
sentence, the respective minister is to continue in the use of all fitt means
for bringing such to repentance ; and also it is thought fitt that none be
relaxed from this censure, untill they supplicat the Presbytrie, being
recommended to them by the Session.
It is recomendcd also to the further considcratione of the brethren,
whether or not it might be found both orderlie and edifying, that after
convictione of any publick scandall, there be some publick binding by
censure, alsweel as there is ane publick absolutione, and they are
requyred to give in ane account of their thoughts therin at the nixt
Synod.
And seeing the edificatione of persons by censure doth much depend
on the orderlines and solemnitie of the censures, it is ordered that no
private minister doe debarre any person by name from the Lord's
Supper, for dishaunting of ordinances, neglect of catechiseing or such
lyke, untill the matter be represented to the Presbytrie, and the person
delinquent cited befor the Presbytrie, that, upon evidence of the guilt,
they may judge upon the expediencie of the censure, and may give order
for it.
Anent Mr. Robert Cheyne, minister of Kinethmont, it being found
requisit that he have ane assistant and helper in the work of the ministrie,
the said Mr. Robert (being present) did declair befor the Lord Bishop
and brethren, that he had been dealing with ane young man to come and
assist him in the work of the ministrie, and promised that, befor the first
of Januarie nixt, he should (God willing) settle with the forsaid young
man, and give ane acompt therof befor that tyme to the Lord Bishop, for
his approbatione of, and authorizeing the said young man in that charge.
The Presbytrie Book of Alfoord is approven, and the brethren of that
Presbytrie removed and approven.
Oct. 7 Sess : 4°. ante meridiem.
It being represented to the Lord Bishop and Synod that, albeit by
Acts of the Synods in October 1673 and Apryl 1674, it was ordered that
the Clerk of the Synod and officer should have payed to him so much as
is due for one Synod, for the three vacand Synods then preceeding,
1675] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 253
which were not keepcd whilst the Bishop was at Edinburgh, to witt, one
shilling sterling to the Clerk, and sixpence to the officer, and that the
samen is not yet payed to them ; And sick lyke, that in the latter
Synods, the Clerk hath been at more than ordinairie pains, in making up
for the severall Presbytries many doubles of long Acts of the Church's
concernment, without an}' satisfaction therfor ; And that the Clerk is con
tent to accept for all the said allowance ordered for him by the Acts of
the said two former Synods, therfor it is ordered by the Lord Bishop,
with consent of the brethren of the Synod, that now, at last, evrie mini
ster pay in to their respective moderators, or any whom the moderators
please to appoynt for collecting the same, the forsaid shilling sterling for
the Clerk, and sixpence for the officer for the said three Synods that
were not keept, and that at their first Presbytrie meetings, to be sent in
by them with first conveniencie.
The Bishop having found, in his reviseing the Presbytrie books, that,
at visitatione of churches, divers things anent the church and utensiles
therof have been recomended to the minister and heritors, which are
afterwards as forgotten, no accompt therof being requyred till the nixt
visitatione of that church, therfor the Lord Bishop, with consent of the
Synod, appoynts and ordaines, that whatsoever is recomended to any
minister or heritors at the visitatione of churches, inquyrie shall be made
by the Presbytrie, at the nixt privie censure, what diligence hath been
used therm, and record taken therof.
The Lord Bishop having inquyred of the brethren what fruit and
advantage they had found, in setting about the privie censure in Presby
tries, in the solemne and serious way recomended by order of the Synod,
it was acknowledged that they found the said order very usefull for
begetting and maintaining on their hearts a fresh sense of the duties of
their calling, and it being that (seeing all other exercise and doctrine was
laid asyde that day) it would be for cdificatione, if, besydes the brief
exhortationes of the moderators, one of the brethren did open up some
Scripture relating to the ministeriall duties : It was ordered by the Lord
Bishop, with consent of the brethren, that, in the day of the privie cen
sure, one of the brethren (having been therto appoynted by the Presby
trie) shall preach from some Scripture suitable to the purpose on hand,
and this per vices, that they may advyse one another, and mutuallie
excite one another to the conscientious discharge of the duties of their
254 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [l6~75
calling, and that the sermon hinder not the rest of the work, it is
ordered that it doc not exceed half ane hour.
It is ordered that in after tymes, imeadiatlie after the delivering
of the severall Presbytrie Bookes, the Synodicall Acts shall be read,
and the severall moderators enquyrcd what is done in obedience
therto.
It is ordered that the severall ministers shall recomend to their
heritors, and Kirk Session, to take some effectuall course for supplying
the poore of their owne respective parochines, that so they may not
be burdensome to other congregationes, and that they give ane
account therof to their respective moderators, and the moderators to
the Lord Bishop, betwixt and the first of Januarie nixt.
(Case of discipline from Presbytery of Alford).
Eodem die Sess : 5 post meridiem.
There being some grievances and complaints given in to the
Bishop and Synod, by the moderator and Presbytrie of Alfoord,
against Mr. John Irvine, minister at Cabrach, after some notice and
tryall taken therof, the further consideratione of that busines is
continued untill the morrow, at the nixt meeting.
It is ordered and appoynted by the Lord Bishop, with consent
of the brethren of the Synod, that there be ane solemnc fast and
humiliatione observed and keeped in all the congrcgationes throughout
this Diocie, upon the last Wcdnsday of Februarie nixt 1676, being
the 23 day of that moneth, to supplicat the Lord for ane blessing
upon the ensueing seed season.
There being diverse complaints and regrates given in to the
Synod by some brethren, that some, under the pretence of transes,
or familiaritie with spirits, by going with those spirits comonlie called
the fairies, have spoken reproachfullie of some persons, wherof some
are dead and some living, it is recomended by the Lord Bishop and
Synod to the Presbytries and ministers interested, carefullie to
endeavour the suppressing of that seductione by warning the people
of the danger of it, and calling befor them the seducers, and, if the
seducers be competes mentis, to proceed in censure against them, as
lykewise against the consumers, if after admonition publicklie given
16/5] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 255
they forbear not such practices, or to vent and spread such rcproachfull
speeches, wherof the seducers are the authors.
October 8 Sess : 6 ante meridiem.
It is ordered by the Lord Bishop, with consent of the Synod, that
those who have not alreadie collected, and given in their charitable
help, for relieving of those persons taken by the Turks, conforme to
the Act of Secret Counsel represented at the last Synod, shall now
bring in their collectiones theranent with all diligence.
Anent Mr. John Irvine, minister at Cabrach, the said Mr. John
having humblie acknowledged first befor the Lord Bishop and
brethren of the conference, and afterwards publicklie befor the wholl
brethren of the Synod, his overreaching and miscariage towards the
moderator and brethren of the Presbytrie of Alfoord, and humblie
craved pardon of the Lord Bishop, moderator, and remanent brethren
of that Presbytrie in particular, the said brethren did pardon him,
and the Lord Bishop having (by advyce of the brethren) first rebuked
the said Mr. John for what he had done, did gravelie admonish and
exhort him to studie mortification of passion and a more prudent
walking towards all men, and especiallie his brethren of the Presbytrie,
assureing him that, if he did againe miscarie, all his former failings
would be remembered against him for the more weightie censure.
The Lord Bishop did recomend to the moderator and brethren of
the Presbytrie of Alfoord to have compassion on the said Mr. John,
although he did not attend the clyets of their meetings so constantlie
as others did, becaus he hath ingenuouslie profest the straitnes of his
condition did sometyme occasion it.
Mr. John Ross, now minister at Tarlane, and late minister at
Cabrach, is ordered by the Lord Bishop, with consent of the Synod,
to search and look out such papers as he has in his custodie
concerning the Stipend of the Kirk of Cabrach, and designatione of
the gleeb therof, and to give ane account, and deliver the same to
Mr. George Melvil, moderator of Alfoord, betwixt and the twentie
seventh of October instant, being VVednsday, and ane Presbytrie day
at Alfoord, which the said Mr. James Ross promised to doe.
William Gordoune of Cracullie is recomended for ane charitable
256 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [l6"75
help from evric minister within this Diocie, and the moderators are
desyrcd to collect the same at the first Prcsbyteriall meetings, after
the rcfcrrs of the Synod shall come to their hands, and send it in to
Mr. George Mcldrum, minister at Aberdeen, with their first conveniencic.
All former recomendationcs given to poor people for supplie are
continued for one yeir, after the granting therof, towards those who
have not supplied them alreadie.
The nixt Synod is appoyntcd to meet the third Tuesday of Apryl
nixt 1676.
(Here follows list of fugitives from discipline, 6 in Aberdeen
Presbytery, and I in Alford).
At Old Aberdeen October 1675.
The brethren of the Presbytrie mett in King's Colledge Church,
and appoynted their nixt -meeting to be at Alfoord November 3, and
Mr. John Irvine to have ane Exercise and Addition upon the ordinarie
matter of the Exercise.
At Alfoord November 3, 1675.
Mr. John Irvine exercised on I Corinthians I. 7, and being removed
was censured for some incoherencies in his discourse, and when called
in, was gravelie admonished to be more methodicall heirafter, that the
Exercise and Addition might appear distinct.
Anent William Dumbar in Strathdone, scandalous for speaking
blasphemouslie of the sacrament of the Lord's Supper, the minister
reported by his lyne, that he was referred to this meeting for
absolution, who being called, and not compeiring, is referred till the
nixt meeting, that the minister be present.
The nixt meeting is appoynted to be this day fyve weeks, and becaus
the privie censure was to passe on all the brethren that day (in order to
which the moderator was to have a discourse relative to the ministeriall
duties) and the referrs of the Synod were to be read, it is seriouslie re-
comended to all present that they meet more tymeouslie upon these
accounts, and that the absents be advertised heirof by a lyne from the
moderator.
1676] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 257
At Alfoord December 8, 1675.
The privie censure, and the moderator's discourse relative therto, were
both superseded, not onlie in regard to the infreqnencie of the meeting,
through the stormines of the weather, but also becaus many of the
brethren were withdrawn upon very urgent occasions, as their severall
letters of excuse did bear^wherfor the former ordinance conveining the
privie censure and the advertisement of the absent brethren was renewed ;
and becaus the ministers present had processes depending, for the further
ing of which the referrs were taken in as followes — (Names follow).
At Alfoord Januarie 5, 1676.
The Moderator, in obedience to the former ordinance, had a discourse
relative to the ministeriall duties, from i Timothy 4. 15.
After the privie censure past on the respective brethren then present,
the referrs of the late Synod were publicklie read, and seriouslie re-
comended, but speciallie those which requyred present obedience, such as
that anent the deficients in payment of their proportion towards the
charge of the comissioners sent to His Majestie's Privie Counsell, of
whom such as were present promised preciselie to pay it at the nixt
Synod, except Mr. Patrick Coupland, who pleaded imunitie, in respect he
alleadged he was not then entered into the ministrie. As also that anent
the charitable contributions for relieving of the prisoners with the Turks,
and others recomended by the Lord Bishop and Synod, the respective
brethren promised to intimat them from their severall pulpits, and to en
deavour, so farre as they could, to procure something for their relief.
As also that, anent the supplie of their owne poor within their owne
parochines, some of the brethren had endeavoured, but ineffectuallie, and
others had alreadie accomodat their owne poor.
As also that, anent seducers, under pretence of transes, or converse
with familiar spirits, there is none yet knowne to be within the bounds of
this Presbytrie, but one Patrick Elles, within the parochine of Auchin-
dore, wherfor the minister of Auchindore is appoynted to cite him befor
their Session, and question him therupon, and if he deny it, and be not
convict, to warne him to bewarre of the lyke in all tyme comeing, under
KK
258 RECORDS OF THE MEETING
the pain of censure, but if he be convict to charge him befor the Presby-
trie, that he may receive sentence accordinglie.
It was enquyred at the respective brethren whose churches had been
visited, what paines they had taken in those things which were re-
comended to them at their severall visitationes viz : for mantenance of the
Schoolmasters, Church utensiles &c., to which they answered that they
had, and should continue to doe their outmost for the supplieing of all
such defects.
The nixt meeting is appoynted to be this day 20 dayes, and in regard
the Presbytrie had this day received a letter from the Lord Bishop,
clesyring that Mr. Robert Farquharsone might be admitted to his tryalls,
in order to the ministrie at the church of Kinethmont, in whose favors he
had received a presentatione to the said Church from my Lord Forbes,
patron of the same, in obedience to which, the Presbytrie appoynted the
said Mr. Robert to be in readiness at the nixt meeting, to sustaine the
questionarie tryall, together with that of the Languages.
At Alfoord Januarie 26, 1676.
Mr. Robert Farquharsone sustained the questionarie tryall, and that
of the Languages, and was approvcn. The nixt meeting is appoynted to
be this day fyve weeks, and the said Mr. Robert to have ane Exegesis
De satisfaction? CJiristi.
Elspet Mckallane in Touch had relapsed in the same sinne of cursing
her mother Sentence of lesser excommunication to be
pronounced upon her.
Anent charitable contributiones for relieving the prisoners with the
Turk, and others recomended by the Lord Bishop and Synod, the re
spective brethren reported that in regard of the generall penurie and
numerousnes of poor, both of their owne, and from other places, they
could at present procure nothing that bears any proportion to the
necessities of those that were recomended to them, and on this account
were necessitat as yet to supersed it.
Anent Patrick Files in Strathdone, the minister reported that he was
a comon beggar, and on this account could not find him to cause sumond
him befor their Session. He is appoynted to use his endeavoures therin,
which he promised to doe.
1676] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 259
The moderator did recomend to the respective brethren the last
Wednsclay of Februarie nixt ensuing to be observed by them, a day of
publick fasting and humiliation for a blessing upon the ensueing seed
tyme, according to the Act of the Synod made theranent.
At Alfoord, March I, 1676.
Mr. Robert Farquharsone had ane Exegesis De satisfactione C/tristi,
and was approven. The nixt meeting is appoyntcd to be this day
moneth, and the said Mr. Robert to have ane Exercise and Addition
upon the ordinarie matter of the Exercise, as also to sustaine the
dispute of his thesis De dicto sub/ecto, which he distribute this day to the
respective brethren.
Ancnt Patrick Elles in Auchendore, the minister reported that he,
having found him within the parochine, caused sumond him befor the
Session, who being called, did compeir, and denyed that he ever studied
to seduce any person, under a pretence of his lying in trance, or having
converse with familiar spirits, or any otherwayes. Wherupon he did
warne him to bewarre in all tyme comeing of the lyke, nnder paine of
censure.
The moderator did enquyre at the respective brethren, if they had
observed the last Wednsday of Februarie as a day of publick fast and
humiliation. They all answered positive.
The Presbytrie appoynted Mr. William Thomson, and Mr. Patrick
Coupland to preach at Strathdonc betwixt and the nixt meeting.
Mr. Adam Barclay delated John Merchand contumacious for
Sabbath breaking and for slandering his neighbour of theft, and being
convict, he is appoynted to be sumoned to the nixt meeting.
At Alfoord March 29, 1676.
Mr. Robert Farquharson had ane Exercise and Addition on I
Corinthians i. 7, and was approven ; as also he sustained the dispute
of his thesis De satisfactione CJiristi, and was approven. The nixt
meeting is appoynted to be the morrow eight dayes, and the said
Mr. Robert to have ane popular sermon on Isaiah 53. i.
260 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1676
Mr. William Thomson, minister at Auchindore, being enquyred
by the moderator, if he had obeyed the former ordinance of the
Presbytrie in preaching at Strathdone, on ane Lord's day since the
last meeting, answered positive. And Mr. Patrick Coupland being
enquyred, if he had lykewyse obeyed the ordinance, answered he had
not, in regard he could not goe from home, his wyfe being sick.
At Alfoord Apryl 6, 1676.
Mr. Robert Farquharsone had a popular sermon on Isaiah 53. I,
and was approven in this and the rest of his tryalls, wherfor he is
appoynted to have a recomendation from the moderator to the Lord
Bishop, in order to his ordination and admission to the Church of
Kinethmont.
Anent the referrs of Cabrach, the minister this day sent a lyne of
excuse for this dayes absence, the Presbytrie not
finding clearnes anent the relevancie of his excuse, or his discipline,
were ncccssitat to lay them over to the Lord Bishop and Synod,
to judge therof as they shall think convenient, upon the sight of his
letters, which are in the hands of the Clerk.
(John Merchand to be cited pro 3°.)
Mr. Win. Thomsone, Clerk to the Presbytrie.
19 Apryl 1676.
This Presbytrie buik of Alfurd approven by the Bishop and Synod.
The brethren therof removed and approven by the Bishop and brethren
of the Synod.
The Referrs of the Synod of Aberdeen holden by the Right Reverend
Father in God, Patrick, Bishop of Aberdeen, within the King's Colledge
Church, in the moneth of Apryl 1676, begunne the eighteinth day therof.
Apryl 18. Sess : i°. post meridiem.
Sermon being had in the Church of Old Machar, by Mr. Robert
Bruce, minister of Old Deir, the fornoone &c.
1676] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 261
Apryl 19. Sess : 2°. ante meridiem.
It is ordained by the Bishop, with consent of the Synod, that if any
minister within this Diocic being admonished once and againe, for not
keeping of Presbyteriall meetings, if therafter he faill, he shall be delated
to the Bishop and Synod for censure.
It is recommended by the Lord Bishop and Synod, to the scverall
Presbytries, and brethren within this Diocie, to take all feasable and
prudent cources, within their respective congregationes, for restraining of
abuse of pcnnie brydalls, as shall be most competent to the brethren
within their owne boundes.
Eodem die Sess 3°. post meridiem.
It is appointed by the Lord Bishop, with consent of the Synod, that
the severall ministers within this Diocie, at their intimatione of dayes of
fast, humiliation, and thanksgiving (as shall be occasionallie appoynted)
they lykewise recomend to the people of their respective congrega
tiones, to abstain from their ordinar imployments, handieworks, and such
exercises as may indispose them for the observatione of their duties on
such dayes, but especiallie befor the publick service.
It is recomended by the Lord Bishop, with consent of the Synod,
to the severall ministers and Presbytries within this Diocie, to notice
those persons who are most usuall dishaunters of ordinances and seducers
of others to error and apostacie from the truth within their boundes, and
to proceed against them with Ecclcsiastick censures, if they continue so
to doe.
The Lord Bishop and Synod considering that there have been
severall Acts of former Synods, and particularlie in October 1663 and
1664, ordaineing all those ministers who arc not sufificientlie provyded to
competend Stipends, conforme to the Acts of Parliament, to persue for
augmentationes, which as yet hath not taken full effect, therfor the Lord
Bishop, with consent of the Synod, does heirby renew the said Acts, and
appoynts that all such ministers as are not sufficientlie provyded as said
is, shall use all diligence for obtaineing their augmentationes by law, and
give ane accompt therof to the nixt Synod, as they will be answerable to
the Bishop and Synod.
262 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [l6/6
Apryl 20. Scss : 4°. ante meridiem.
It is appoynted by the Lord Bishop, with consent of the Synod, that
the second Tuesday of August nixt, being the nynth of that moneth, be
observed as a day of solemne fast and humiliatione, for craveing a bless
ing from God upon the ensueing harvest, and that when the severall
brethren make intimatione therof to their congregationes, they recomend
their people to abstaine from their handiwork and ordinarie imployments
and exercises, which may indispose them to the observatione of their
dutie on that day, but especiallie bcfor the publick service.
The Presbytrie book of Alfoord and severall other books are
approven, and the brethren of that Presbytrie removed and approven.
Eodem die Sess : 5°. post meridiem.
The Lord Bishop and brethren on the conference haveing taken to
their consideratione the straites and necessities wherinto the relicts and
children of manie ministers are often tymes redacted, and finding how
comendable and charitable a work it would be, to contribute for supplie
and honest mantenance of such, especiallie seeing (besydes the comon
motives of charitie) the credit of ministers is neerlie concerned heirin, did
fall upon ane Overture for that effect viz : that everie minister within
this Diocie should give in yeirlie, the hundreth pennie of his yeirlie
stipend, to be imployed for the end above mentioned, and after the
manner that shall be afterwards condescended upon. Which Overture
being publicklie proposed to the Synod, it was cordiallie approven and
entertained by them, and the catalogue of the ministers' names being
called the Lord Bishop, and all the brethren present, did particularie,
and by name, consent to the same, and ingadge themselves therto,
exccptione, Mr. John Irvine, who was non lionet?
And seeing the particular way and method for collecting and in
gathering the said contributione, and imploying the same, could not at
present be fullie condescended upon as requyring more mature delibera-
tione, therfor the Lord Bishop and Synod did recomend to Mr. John
Menzies, and Mr. Henrie Scougall, Professors of Divinitie, Mr. George
Meldrum, minister at Aberdeen, Mr. George Gordoune at Banchoric, and
Mr. Adam Barclay at Keig, with any others whom they shall think fitt to
adjoyne to themselves, to think upon such proposals wherby the said
1 Note 28.
1 6/6] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORIX 263
Overture may be rendered more effectuall and practicable, and to give in
their thoughts theranent with the first conveniencie, to be transmitted to
the severall Presbytries, that the respective brethren may be acquainted
thenvith, and give in their judgement theranent at the nixt Synod. It is
lykevvise recomended to the above named brethren at their meeting, to
take in considcratione that referre in the late Synod, holden October
1675, anent the expediencie of publick binding by censure, upon the
convictione of scandall.
All recomendationes of poor persons for [help are continued for one
yeir after the dait heirof towards their supplic from all congregationes
who have not already supplied them, their names are William Gordoune
of , James Forbes, Patrick Farquhar, Andrew Meldrum,
(blank) Fraser, and Mr. Alexander Lynn.
(List of fugitives from discipline, 3 from Aberdeen, and I from New
Machar.)
At Old Aberdeen Apryl 19, 1676.
The brethren of the Presbytrie mett in the King's Colledge Church,
and appoynted their next meeting to be at Alfoord May 17, and in
regard Mr. John Barclay, son to Mr. Adam Barclay at Keig, Student of
Divinitie, within the bounds of the Presbytrie, was this day recomended
by severall of the brethren, for entering on his tryalls, in order to publick
preaching, being cloathed with testimonies under the hands of the
Professors of Philosophic in King's Colledge, in Old Aberdeen, of his
proficiencie in the studie of philosophic, and graduation, as also under
the hands of the Professors of Divinitie, of his proficiencie in the studie
of Divinitie, was appoynted to be in readines to sustaine the tryall of the
Languages, Hebrew and Greek, the forsaid day.
At Alfoord May 17, 1676.
Mr. John Barclay sustained the tryall of the Languages, Hebrew
and Greek, and was approven.
The moderator did seriouslie recomend to the respective brethren
the 29 of this current May, for observance, according to the Act of
the Synod, as they would be answerable.
264 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1676
The nixt meeting is appoynted to be this day moneth, and Mr.
John Barclay to sustaine his questionarie tryall upon the seventh and
eight centuries, the said day.
At Alfoord June 14, 1676.
Mr. John Barclay sustained his questionarie tryall, and was
approven.
Anent the referrs of Cabrach, the minister being this day present,
reported that he had forgotten to cause sumond those who were
under discipline in his parochine. Me is appoynted to cause sumond
them to the nixt dyet.
Anent John Merchand in Kcig, of his owne
accord, appearing and confessing his sinne, was appoynted to satisfie
the discipline of Keig three severall Lord's dayes, upon the publick
pillar, which sentence he hearing, answered that he should be as soon
hanged, as obey that sentence, wherfor processe is appoynted to goe
on against him.
The nixt meeting is appoynted to be this day 20 dayes, and Mr.
Adam Barclay to have half ane hour's discourse relative to ministeriall
duties, in regard that the privie censure is appoynted to pass on the
respective brethren that day, and the said Mr. Adam is to be
advertised by his son Mr. John Barclay of this ordinance.
Mr. John Barclay is ordained to have his theses in readines to be
distribute to the respective brethren the nixt day, on that head De
penitentia.
The moderator having enquyred the brethren if they had observed
the 29 of May, all who were present answered affirmative, but regrated
that they could have but very few to hear them.
At Alfoord Julie 5, 1676.
Mr. Adam Barclay, in obedience to the former ordinance of the
Presbytrie, had a discourse relative to ministeriall duties, from i
Corinthians 4. I. And therafter privie censure past on the respective
brethren present (being removed one by one) after the forme of
visitatione of Churches was publicklie read, and listned unto by all,
OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 265
but nothing was found ccnsureablc in any, cither in their conversation
or doctrine, worthie of a public rebuke.
The nixt meeting is appoynted to be this day 20 dayes, and Mr.
John Barclay to have ane Exegesis De penitentia, as also to be in
readines to sustaine the dispute of his theses (being distribute this
day) if tyme could permitt, in regard he had been postponed this day
from having any tryall, becaus of the privie censure.
At Alfoorcl Julie 26, 1676.
Mr. John Barclay had ane Exegesis De penitentia, and was appro ven.
John Merchand in Keig, admonished pro i°. Julie 16.
Minister to proceed.
Mr. William Thomson, minister at Auchindore, gave in a Session
processe led against Isobel Strachan, wherin she was declaired contu
macious to their discipline, for frequent cursing her neighbors, and
dishaunting of ordinances. He is appoynted to cause sumond her to
nixt meeting.
The brethren of the Presbytrie finding that they had not sufficient
tyme to oppugn Mr. John Barclay his theses De penitentia, thought fitt to
supersede that tryall to the nixt meeting, which is appoynted to be this
day 20 dayes, and the said Mr. John is also appoynted to have ane
Exercise and Addition on the following matter of the Exercise.
Mr. George Watson did delate Robert Mitchell and Margaret Adam
his wyfe, Patrick Strachan, Agnes Farquhar, James Reid, Elspet John-
stoune, and Robert Walker for ther contemning of the holy sacrament of
the Lord's Supper. The Presbytrie, after serious consideration, thought
fitt to referr their censure to the Lord Bishop and Synod.
The Presbytrie considering that the Church of Forbes was now
vacant, appointed Mr. William Burnett, minister at Kildrumie, to
supplie that vacancie one day, betwixt and the nixt meeting.
The moderator did recomend to the respective brethren, that they
would be carefull to observe, within their scverall congrcgationcs, the 13
day of the ensueing moneth of August, being the Lord's day, as a day of
solemne thanksgiving to God, for his wonderfull mercies in the by past
season, and withall to creave his blessing on the ensueing harvest,
according to the Lord Bishop his letter, directed to the Presbytrie for
that effect.
LL
266 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1676
At Alfoord August 16, 1676.
Mr, John Barclay had anc Exercise and Addition on i Corinthians
I. 9, and was approven, as also sustained the dispute of his theses De
penitcntia, in which tryall he was also approven.
The moderator, having enquyred if the brethren had observed the
day of thanksgiving, according to the former order, all answered affirma
tive.
The brethren of the Prcsbytrie hearing that Mr. John Irvine, minister
at Cabrach, was gone to Edinburgh without acquainting them, or desyr-
ing any brother to supplic his place, judged themselves concerned to
send one of their number to preach at Cabrach anc day betwixt and
the nixt meeting. Wherfor they appoynted Mr. William Thomson,
minister at Auchinclore, to supplic that place on Lord's day come
eight dayes ; as also ordained Mr. John Walker to supplie the
vacancie of Forbes once, betwixt and the nixt dyet of the Presbytrie.
At Alfoord September 13, 1676.
Mr. John Barclay had a popular sermon on I Samuel 2. 30, and
was approven in this and the rest of his tryalls, and appoynted to
have a recomendation from the moderator to the Lord Bishop, in
order to the opening of his mouth for publick preaching the gospell.
Anent the referrs of Cabrach, the minister of Auchindore reported
that, according to the ordinance of the Presbytrie, he had supplied
that place on Lord's day was eight dayes, by preaching to the people,
but had not kept Session, in regard that there was no established
officer to call the delinquents, neither were they cited to that dyet,
nor could he have ane elder to sitt with him.
Anent Isobel Strachan to be cited to the nixt
meeting pro 3°., under paine of contumacie.
Mr. John Walker reported that he had supplied the vacancie at
Forbes, on the Lord's day was eight dayes. The Presbytrie appoynted
Mr. William Garrioch, Student of Divinitie, and preacher of the gospell,
to supplie it one Lord's day betwixt and the nixt meeting.
The Presbytrie finding that the young men, Schoolmasters, within
their boundes, had not as yet taken the oath of alledgeance, appoynted
1676] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 267
the respective brethren to call them befor the nixt meeting, that they
might take the said oath in presence of the Presbytrie, which they
promised to doe.
The brethren finding that they had not made a collection for the
relief of the prisoners with the Turk, appoynted that the collection
might be in readines to be given in to the moderator at the nixt meeting.
The nixt meeting is appoynted to be this day fourthnight, and Mr.
Arthur Forbes is appoynted to handle the Prologue of Perseus in a
grammatticall and prosodicall way, in order to his admission to be
Schoolmaster at Keie.
At Alfoord September 27, (1676)
Mr. Arthur Forbes handled the Prologue of Perseus in a gramma-
ticall, prosodicall, and rhetoricall way, and being approven, was judged
qualified to be Schoolmaster at Keig.
John Merchand was prayed for pro i°. September
24. Minister to proceed.
Mr. Robert Mackie, Schoolmaster at Kildrumie, Mr. John Robertsone,
Schoolmaster at Envernochtie, Mr. Arthur Forbes, Schoolmaster at Keig,
did take the oath of Alleadgeance, in presence of the brethren mett for
the tyme.
Some of the brethren reported that they had their collection for the
relief of the prisoners with the Turk in readines, and others not, wherfor
they are all ordained to have them to give in at the ensueing Synod.
Mr. William Garrioch, preacher of the gospell, reported that he had
supplied Forbes on Lord's day last eight dayes, and the said Mr.
William presenting a letter this day to the Presbytrie, from the Lord
Bishop, desyring he might be admitted to his tryalls, in order to the
ministric at the said church of Forbes, in whose favors his Lordship
had received a presentation to the said church from my Lord Forbes,
patrone of the same, was appoynted at the nixt meeting at this place,
to sustaine the tryall of the Languages, as also his questionarie tryall.
The sacrament of the Lord's Supper was celebrat at the churches
of Keig, Alfoord, Towie, Clatt, Tillinesscl, Kildrumie, Glenbucket, and
Auchindore on Easter, at Forbes May 7, at Lochel June 18, at
Envernochtie June 25, at Touch Julie 16, at Cushnie May 21.
Mr. Wm. Thomsone, Clerk to the Presbytrie.
268 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1676
At King's Colledge, 11 October 1676.
The said day, the Presbytrie buik of Alfurd is approver! by the
Lord Bishop and Synod, and the brethren therof removed and approven.
Mr. Al. Forbes, Clerk to the Synod of Aberdeen.
The Referrcs of the Synod of Aberdeen, holden by the Right
Reverend Father in God, Patrick, Bishop of Aberdeen, within the
King's Colledge Church, in the moneth of October 1676, and begunne
the tenth day therof.
Sess : i°. post meridiem.
Sermon being had by Mr. Arthur Strachan,' minister at Mortlick,
in the Kirk of Old Machar, the fornoone, &c.
Sess: 2°. October n. ante meridiem.
The roll of the ministers names was called, and absents notted to
witt Mr. Robert Dumbar at Keirne. The other absents are excused.
It is ordered that dishaunters of ordinances, after privat dealing
with them by the minister of the place, be thryse cited befor the
Session where they live, and, in caice of contumacie, that they be
thryce cited before the Presbytrie, and, if they still remain contumacious,
that they be sentenced with the lesser excommunicatione, according
to the order formerlie prescrybed.
Sess : 3°. Eodem die post meridiem.
The Presbytrie book of Alfoord is approven, and the brethren
removed and approven.
Sess: 4". October 12 ante meridiem.
It is thought fitt by. the Lord Bishop and Synod that if it happen
at anie Presbyteriall meeting in this Diocie, both the moderator of
the Presbytrie, and he who is appoynted by the Lord Bishop and
Synod to moderat in his place be absent, that the rest of the brethren
who are mett (if there be a quorum) shall have power to choise one
of their number to moderat pro temporo.
l6;6] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORI). 269
It is appoynted that, when the brethren of anie Presbytrie shall
suspend their judgement of the doctrine delivered at their meeting,
they either give a relevant reason therfor at the Presbytrie, or els
positivelie approve or disapprove.
Sess : 5°. Eodem die post meridiem.
It is recomended that the Act of the Synod in October 1673, relating
to the takeing of two dyets for the questionarie tryalls be observed.
It is ordered that Mr. William Thomson at Auchindore, Mr. Thomas
Gardin at Clatt, Mr. Adam Barclay at Keig, Mr. James Strachan at
Oyne, or anie three of them, with the moderator of the Presbytrie of
Alfoord, meet at the Kirk of Cabrach, for accomodating the minister
there of a gleeb, either by consent, or by law, at whatsoever clay they
can condescend upon, and to adjourne their meeting to whatsoever
other dyet as they shall think fitt.
The Lord Bishop and Synod, in pursuance of the notione which
the brethren had so unanimouslie imbraced the last Synod, anent
the hundreth part of their yeirlie Stipend to be sett apart for the
supplie of ministers widows and children in their necessitie, to make
the said notione more practicable, found it expedient that a bond
should be drawn up in parchment, to be subscrybed by the severall
ministers of the respective Presbytries, which was accordinglie clone
by the ministers then present. Onlie the moderator of the Presbytrie
of Deir, in regard the most part of the brethren of that Presbytrie
were then absent, desyred that the subscriptiones of those who were
there present of that Presbytery might be forborne, till they had dealt
with the brethren then absent to joyne with them in that subscription,
which he was verie hopefull they would doe ; as also the first moyetie
of the forsaid yeirlie charitable contributione is ordered to be brought
. o
in at the nixt Synod, and Mr. George Meldrum, minister at Aberdeen,
is appoynted Collector therof, to whom it is recomended to procure
the subscriptiones of those who have not as yet subscrybed.
It being found frequentlie in manic congrcgationcs that some
persones doe withdraw from the sacrament of the Lord's Supper when
it is celebrat in the parish, upon the profest account of the variance
and discord with their neighbours, which yet they refuse to remove
by a fricndlie reconciliatione upon reasonable tcrmcs, and that such
2/O RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1676
persons appear to be the more hardned in that unchristian and
uncharitable practise, in regard no publick censure has been made
use of against themselves, it is therfor ordered by the Bishop and
Synod, that upon any, (after pains taken to convince them of the
sin and danger of such ane unchristian practise) doe refuse to be
reconciled with their neighbour upon reasonable termcs, that the
Presbytrie be acquainted with it, and they cited befor them, and if
they shall refuse to be reconciled as said is, that the Presbytrie give
order to the minister of the place to sentence them with the lesser
sentence of excommunicatione, according to the forme prescrybed
by the Bishop and Synod.
It is ordered that ane solemne fast and humiliatione be keept
throught all this Diocie, in each parochine, for ane blessing from God
upon the ensueing seed seasone, upon the last Wednsday of Februarie
nixt.
The nixt meeting of the Synod is appoynted to be the third
Tuesday of Apryl nixt 1677.
(List of fugitives from Church discipline, 3 from Aberdeen Presby
tery, and 4 from Ellon Presbytery.)
At Old Aberdeen October 11, 1676.
The brethren of the Presbytrie mett in the King's Colledge Church,
and appoynted their nixt meeting to be at Alfoord November 8, and
Mr. William Garrioch to sustaine the tryall of the Languages, according
to the former ordinance.
At Alfoord November 8, (1676).
Mr. William Garrioch sustained the tryall of the Languages, and
was approven. The nixt meeting is appoynted to be this day moneth,
and the said Mr. William to be in readincs to sustaine his questionarie
tryall.
Anent Agnes Farquhar in Cushnie, scandalous for revyling and
cursing the minister, the minister of Cushnie reported that according
to the former ordinance of the Presbytrie, he had received her
satisfaction, and had absolved her November 5.
1677] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 271
John Merchand, prayed for pro 2°. November 5.
Minister to close the processe against the nixt meeting.
Isobel Strachan the minister reported that he had
given her the first admonition November 5, but she this day appearing
of her owne accord, befor the Prcsbytrie, and confessing her sin of
cursing, together with her contumacie to the Presbytric, and promiseing
to give satisfaction, was appoynted to satisfie the discipline of Auchen-
dore, as she should be enjoyned by the Session, and the minister is
ordained to absolve her, upon evidences of her repentance.
At Alfoord December 6 (1676).
Mr. William Garrioch sustained his questionarie tryall, and was ap-
proven. The nixt meeting is appoynted to be this day fyve weeks, and
the privie censure to passe on the respective brethren the said day, and
Mr. George Watson to have half ane hour's discourse, relative to minis-
teriall duties, according to the Act of the Synod, and the minister of
Cushnie is appoynted to advertise him of this ordinance.
Anent John Merchand in Keig, the minister reported that he was
prayed for pro 3°. December 3, who tin's day appearing, and submitting
himself to the sentence of the Presbytric, was appoynted to satisfie the
discipline of Keig, as he was formerlic enjoyned by the minister and
Session, in all poyntes, with certification if he failed therm, that the
processe ledd against him would be extracted, and sent in to the Lord
Bishop, that order might be given for the extraction.
Anent Isobel Strachan in Auchindore, the minister reported that she
had given satisfaction to their discipline, and was absolved December 3.
At Alfoord Januarie 10, 1677.
Mr. George Watson, in obedience to the former ordinance, had a
discourse relative to ministeriall duties on Colossians 4. 17, and therafter
the privie censure past on the respective brethren present.
No referres were taken in, safe those which could not admitt of a
delay viz. John Mitchell and Isobel Edward being cited to this day were
called, and compeiring in sackcloath confessed their sin, and were ap
poynted to satisfie the discipline of Keig in sackcloath.
2/2 RECORDS OF THE MEETING
The nixt meeting is appoyntcd to be this day 20 dayes, and Mr.
William Garrioch to have ane Exegesis De veritate religionis CJiristianae.
At Alfoord Januarie 31 (1677).
The said day, (by reason of the stormincs of the weather) mctt onlie
Mr. Robert Irvine, Mr. John Mair, Mr. Patrick Coupland, and Mr.
William Thomson, and appoynted the nixt meeting to be this day eight
dayes.
At Alfoord Februarie 7, (1677).
Mr. William Garrioch had his Exegesis De veritate religionis CJiristi
anae, and was approvcn. The nixt meeting is appoynted to be this day
moneth, and the said Mr. William to have ane Exercise and Addition,
on the following matter of the Exercise, and to sustaine the dispute of
his theses De dicto subjecto he having distribute theses to the respective
brethren this day.
No referres, in regard the most part of the brethren were absent
through the stormines of the weather. Onlie conveened this day Mr.
Adam Barclay, Mr. John Walker, Mr. Thomas Garden, Mr. William
Burnet, Mr. Patrick Coupland, and Mr. W'illiam Thomson, who (in
the absence of the moderator) did choose Mr. Adam Barclay moderator
pro tempore.
The moderator did rccomend to the respective brethren present,
the last Wednsday of this moneth to be observed by them, a day of
publick fast and humiliation, for a blessing upon the ensueing seed
tyme.
At Alfoord March 7, (1677).
Mr. William Garrioch had ane Exercise and Addition on I Corin
thians i. 10, and also sustained the dispute of his theses, and was
approven in both. The nixt meeting is appoynted to be this day
20 dayes, at the Cabrach, in order to the designation of a gleeb,
grass, foggage, fewall, faill, and divott, to the present incumbent there,
for which the Presbytrie had received ane edict to be served at the
said church, with a comission for that effect, at which meeting Mr.
OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORI). 273
William Garrioch is appoynted to have a popular sermon on Genesis
3- 15, and Mr. William Thomson is ordained tymeouslic to serve the
edict at the said church.
Anent John Merchand in Keig, the minister reported that he had
refused to give satisfaction to their discipline, as he was enjoyned,
wherfor the processe ledd against him is appoynted to be extracted,
that it may be sent to the Lord Bishop with the first conveniencie, to
be subscrybed.
The respective brethren present declared that they had observed
the last Weclnsday of Februarie, as a day of publick fast and
humiliation, except Mr. George Watson, who asserted that he knew
not of that ordinance, and, through ignorance, he had not observed it.
Mr. Adam Barclay, Mr. Robert Irvine, Mr. Robert Farquharsone,
and Mr. William Christie's privie censure.
The moderator did delate John Reid contumacious for cursing,
and Jannet Chalmers for perturbing the publick worship. They are
appoynted to be sumoned to the nixt meeting.
At Cabrach March 29, (1677).
Mr. William Garrioch had a popular sermon on Genesis 3. 15, and
was approvcn in this and the rest of his tryalls, wherfor he is appoynted
to have a recomendation from the moderator to the Lord Bishop, in
order to his ordination and admission to the church of Forbes.
The Presbytrie having mett in order to a designation of glecb,
grasse, and other priviledgcs deficient to the present incumbent, after
incalling of the name of God, did call for the Edict from Mr. William
Thomson, who was formerlie appoynted to serve the samen at the
Church of Cabrach, and the said Mr. William delivered up the same
duelie execut and indorsed. The Presbytrie caused call the heritors,
lyferenters, woodsetters, and others having interest in the said parochine.
There appeared, in name of the Marques of Huntlic, David Tyrie in
Collithie, Alexander Duff of Kethmor, and James Gordoune in Tirrisoull,
and carncstlic dcsyred, in name of the said Marques, that the said
matter might be delayed to some day to be appoynted at the ensueing
Synod in Apryl nixt to come, and undertook that the said designation
should be befor the last day of May nixt, and that, after the designation
MM
2/4 R I '.CORPS OF THE MKETIXC. [1677
made, the incumbent at the Church of Cabrach should have peaceable
possession of gleeb, grasse, and other priviledges to be designed, and
the validitie of the said gleeb for this cropt to sow should be payed
and delivered to the incumbent for the tyme, at farrest at the ingathering
of the cropt ; as also they undertook that the present incumbent should
have libertic without trouble for feeding and maintaining of ane hors and
two kyne in the nearest adjacent grasse to his manse, and that for this
Sumer tyme, or at least till such tyme as there were a designation of
grass legallie made to him, all which they oblidged themselves to
performe in name of the said Marques, by a lyne subscrybt with their
hands, of the clait at Cabrach March 29, 1677 yeircs, which lyne was
consigned in the Clerk of Presbytrie his hands, to be forthcomeing as
occasion should serve. The Presbytrie taking this to their serious
consideration granted the desyre.
No rcferrs, in regard the day was farre spent and verie tempestuous.
Mr. Wm. Thomsone, Clerk to the Presbytrie.
At King's Colledge of Aberdeen, 25 Apryl 1677.
The Presbytrie buik of Alfurd is approven by the Bishop and Synod ;
the brethren therof removed and approven.
Mr. Al. Forbes, Clerk to the Synod of Aberdeen.
The Referrcs of Synod of Aberdeen, holden by the Right Reverend
Father in God, Patrick, Lord Bishop of Aberdeen, within the King's
Colledge Church, in the moneth of Apryl 1677, and begunne the twentie
fourth day therof.
Scss : i°. post meridiem.
Sermon being had by the Lord Bishop in the Colledge Kirk the
fornoone &c.
The Lord Bishop did present, and caused publicklie read bcfor the
brethren of the Synod, the Act of His Majestie's Councell, anent ane
contribution for building and repairing the harbour of Eymouth, and
caused delyver printed copies of the said Act to the severall moderators
of each Presbytrie, to be transmitted by them to evrie respective minister
OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORlX 2/5
within their bounds, and did recomend to all the brethren to be carefull
and diligent in collecting and gathering their severall contributions (when
requyred) to such personcs as should be appoynted to receive the same.
I he Lord Bishop did also present, and caused read publicklie, another
Act of His Majestie's Councell for giving up the names of all School
masters, preachers, or chaplains that doe officiatt in the bounds of anie
Diocie, without licence from their Ordinarie, and that against the second
^
Iuesday of June nixt. And the Lord Bishop did recomend to the
severall moderators in their respective Presbytries to use diligence ther-
anent, and to send in the names of such (if anie be within their bounds)
tymeoulie against the said day.
Apryll 25. Sess : 2". ante meridiem.
It is ordained by the Lord Bishop, with consent of the Synod, that if
anie person shall report strangers from another parish, they who report
them shall give notice of these persons names to the minister of the
parish where they are receipt, within fourtein dayes after their coming
therin, and if anie shall conceall such persons for the said space, not
having acquainted the minister as said is, or the persons concealed by
them be found afterwards to be scandallous, the persons receipters of
them shall be censured by a publick appearance befor the congregation.
The Presbytrie book of Alford is approven, the brethren therof re
moved and approven.
Eoclem die Sess : 3". post meridiem.
George Gordon of Hadclo, within the parochine of Cabrach, compeired,
and did present to the Bishop and Synod ane lybell, subscrybed with his
hand, against Mr. John Irvine, minister at Cabrach, accusing him of
severall scandals, which lybell being read was sustained as relevant, and
admitted to probation. And for the better examination and tryall of the
said matter, and in respect the said Mr. John Irvine was not present at
this Synod, nor witnesses adduced against him, it is appoynted and
ordained, that the brethren of the Presbytrie of Alfoord, together with
Mr. John Forbes at Coldstane, Mr. John Keythe at Birse, for the Presby
trie of Kincardyne, Mr. James Strachane at Oyne, and Mr. Alexander
Mowatt at Leslye for the Presbytrie of Garioch, Mr. George Gardync at
276 KKcokns OF Tine MKKTINC; [1677
Korgue for the Presbytric of Turrcff, and Mr. Arthur Strachanc at
Mortlick for the Prcsbytric of Fordycc (or anic fyve of them to be a
quorum) to meitt at the kirk of Cabrach upon the sixteinth day of May
nixt, being- Wednsday, for tryall and examination of the lybell given in
against the said Mr. John Irvine, by the said George Gordon, or anie new
emergent complaints that shall be given in and offered to be proven
against him at the said clyett, and for examining the witnesses to be
adduced for that effect. And it is appoynted that the said Mr. James
Strachan, minister at Oyne, be moderator at the said meeting, if he be
present, and if absent, with power to the remanent brethren above named
to choose their moderator, and appoynts Mr. William Thomson, minister
at Auchindore, present Clerk to the Presbytric of Alfoord, to be Clerk to
the meeting; and appoynts him to cause his officer lay on the sumondses
against the witnesses to be adduced in the said matter ; and to deliver
tymeouslie to the said Mr. John Irvine ane copie of anie lybells to be
given in against him; for which ends ane comission was granted, and
subscrybed by the Lord Bishop of Aberdeen, to the fornamed persons ;
and the said comissioners are appoynted to make report of their diligence
to the Bishop, and those that were appoynted for the privie conference
at this Synod, and of what they shall find thcrin, at the meeting of ane
sub-Synod, to be keeped at Old Aberdeen the second Wednsday of
June next to come.
The Lord Bishop and Synod considering how much the sin of whore-
dome and uncleannes doth abound in the land, and that some persons,
after profession of repentance for one fall, doe relapse againe and againe
into the same sin, to the great dishonour of God, and reproach of the
gospcll, therfor have ordained that when anie persons doe fall so
frequcntlie in whorcdomc, as that they be appoynted to appear in sack-
cloath for removing the scandal!, and if therafter they fall de novo in some
new scandall of uncleannes, that they be sentenced with the lesser
excomunication, according to the manner formerlic prescrybed by the
Synod, both for the terror of others, and that they being ashamed for
their multiplied sins may be humbled therfor, and supplicatt the Church
to be admitted to the profession of their repentance therfor, and for
absolution therfrom.
Apryll 26. Sess : 4°. ante meridiem.
It is ordered that the bursers of Divinitie shall not receave their dews
OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORI). 377
from the several! ministers untill such tyme as they shew to the respective
ministers the Professors dictates, and that the Professors of Divinitie, in
all the testimonialls which they give to the Students attending the pro
fession in tyme coming, shall express whether or not they did wryte their
dictates.
It is appoyntcd by the Lord Bishop, with consent of the Synod, that
their be no person presented by anie Presbytrie to their burses of Divin
itie untill the Lambmass imcdiatlie befor the Profession shall sit down.
It is appoyntcd by the Lord Bishop, with consent of the Synod, that
the moderators of the respective Presbytries shall enquyre at the scvcrall
brethren of their Presbytrie, if they have payed their moyetie of their
contribution for the ministers' widows, which is due at this Synod, and
delyvered it to Mr. George Meldrum, Collector.
(List of fugitives from discipline.)
At Old Aberdeen Apryll 25, 1677.
The brethren of the Presbytrie mett in King's Colledge Church,
and did nominatt and present Mr. William Garden, Student of
Divinitie, to the Divinitie burse of Alfoord and Turreff Presbytries, it
being their vice, and appoynted the said Mr. William to have a
specimen of his abilities befor the Presbytrie on that head De Revelatione
znimcdiata contra EntJiusiastos, and to bring with him testimonies from
the severall Professors where he had resided, of his conversation and
profkiencie ; the tyme when he shall handle his subject is referred to
himselfe when he shall have conveniencie. The brethren appoynted
their nixt meeting to be this day moncth at Alfoord, and Mr. John
Walker to have the exercise on the, ordinarie matters ; and lykwise
Mr. William Jele chosen Schoolmaster, Alfoord, is appoynted to have
a specimen in Grammar, and prosoclie.
At Alfoord May 23, 1677.
Mr. William Jele sustained a tryall in Grammar and Prosodie, in
order to his admission to be Schoolmaster at Alfoord, and was
approven therin, and therfor there was no exercise this day. The
278 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1677
nixt meeting is appoynted to be at Alfoord this day moncth, and
Mr. John Walker is ordained to have a discourse ad dcrum on
pastorall duties. [Theraftcr the privie censure.]
The moderator reported to the brethren that lie had received a letter
from Mr. Patrick Sibbald, moderator of the Presbytrie of Aberdeen,
which he caused the Clerk publicklie read, recomending Mr. Alexander
Litster, Student in Divinitic, to be tryed by this Presbytrie, in order to
be licensed to preach the gospcll, and the moderator likewise testified
that he and Mr. Adam Barclay had, in private conference, examined
his abilities, and found matter and ground to receive him to publick
tryall ; with all which the Presbytrie was satisfied, and appoynted the
said Mr. Alexander to be readie against the nixt dyet to sustaine the
tryall of the Languages, and prescrybed the twentie third psalm to be
interpreted by him in Hebrew, and that he bring with him testimonies
from the Universitie where he commenced Master of Arts, and the
Professors of Divinitie where he had resided.
The Presbytrie did elect and nominatt Mr. William Garioch to
be Clerk to the Presbytrie, who gave his oath de fuidi administratione.
It is enacted that all the Schools within the Prcsbytric shall be
visited once a yeir, or at least two.
The moderator reported that he had given institution to Mr.
William Garioch to be minister of Forbes, and that upon the 13 day
of May last by past.
At Alfoord June 20, (1677).
Mr. John Walker, conforme to the ordinance of the Synod, had
a discourse concerning pastorall duties, on 2 Timothy 4. 5, and
therafter the privie censure upon the brethren passt (being removed
one by one), but nothing found censurable, either in their doctrine,
discipline, or conversation.
According to the former ordinance, Mr. Alexander Litster sustained
the tryall of Languages, Greek and Hebrew, and not bringing testi
monies as was enjoyncd him, to bring them against the nixt dyet,
which is ordained to be this day twentie dayes, and to sustaine his
questionarie tryall that day.
In respect of the privie censure, no referrs were taken.
1677] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 279
The moderator cnquyred of the scverall brethren present, if they
had observed the 29 of May, to which all present answered positive.
At Alfoord July 11, (1677).
Mr. Alexander Litster sustained his questionarie tryall
and is to have ane Exegesis De priinatu Petri et Papce, and to be readie
to distribute his theses theron.
The moderator produced a letter from the Bishop, which he caused
the Clerk publicklie read, appoynting the Presbytrie of Alfoord to
intimat the vacancie of Cabrach, through the deposition of Mr. John
Irvine late minister therat, desyring likewise the Presbytrie to have
a care to supplie its vacancie, wherupon the Presbytrie ordained Mr.
William Garioch, on the nixt Lord's day to repair thither, and intimat
the same, and Mr. Andrew Abercrombie nixt.
Mr. Alexander Litster had ane Exegesis De priinatu Papa;, &c.
theses.
Mr. William Garioch reported that, conforme to the ordinance of
the Presbytrie, he had intimat the deposition of Mr. John Irvine, and
the vacancie at Cabrach, Mr. Andrew Abercrombie is appoynted to
supplie it betwixt and the nixt meeting.
John Merchand satisfied, and was absolved.
[Collections for the harbour of Eymouth.]
At Alfoord August 22, 1677.
Mr. Alexander Litster had ane Exercise and Addition on i
Corinthians i. 11, 12, and theraftcr sustained the dispute of his
theses, and in both was approven, and he earncstlie desyring that
the Presbytrie would indulge him to have his popular sermon bcfor
the Bishop, they consented, provyding his Lordship would accept of
the samyn, and assigned him for a text I John 2. 15, and ordained
him to get a recomendation from the moderator to the Lord Bishop
in order to his obtaining a licence to preach the gospel 1.
280 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1677
[Vacancie of Cabrach supplied].
Mr. Adam Barclay did delatt William Forbes of Tulloch, Jean
Ross his spouse, Margaret Smith, their servant, James Davidson in
Uppermylne, Alexander Leith in Bridghall, William Kirk in Craig-
pott, all contumacious to the discipline of Keig, for despising and
abandoning the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper at their owne Church,
some of them for three yeirs together, and gave in a formall process
against them, wherupon the Presbytrie ordained their owne officer
to sumond them all litcra scripta to the nixt day.
Mr. James Irvine, Student of Divinitie presented a letter from the
Bishop, ordaining him to be entered upon his tryalls, in order to his
admission to the Kirk of Cabrach, My Lord Marr, the patron therof,
having presented him therto. \Vherupon he is ordained to be in
readines against the nixt day to sustaine the tryall of the Languages,
and to bring with him testimonies from the Universitie and Professors.
At Alfoord September 19, (1677).
Mr. William Garden elected burser of Divinitie, conforme to the
ordinance of the last Synod hade ane essay and specimen DC
immediata Rcvelatione, and was approven in it, as lykewise he produced
testimonies, one from the Universitie where he commenced, two others
from Professors, one from Dr. Keith, another from Mr. Charters,
Professor at Edinburgh, wherupon he is appoynted to have a testi-
monie from the Moderator to the Presbytrie at Turreff.
Mr. James Irvine sustained his tryall of the Languages, Greek
and Hebrew, and not giving satisfaction to anie of the brethren, he
was ordained against the last of his tryalls to give better satisfaction,
else the Presbytrie could not grant him a testimonie upon this poynt
of his tryalls. He is appoynted lykewise to be readie against the
nixt day at Alfoord to sustaine the questionarie tryall ; he is
lykwayes appoynted to supplic Cabrach once or twice betwixt and
the Synod.
Anent John Fordyce and Isobel Irvine, both compeiring, the
said John being interrogatt why he deserted his lawfull married wyfe,
he affirmed that he could not live for her, that she had threatned
OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 281
to take his life on the night, all which the woman denying, the
Presbytrie ordains him to return and live with her, and her to carrie
herself dutifullie, the minister of Kinethmont to do his endeavour by
instructions and exhortations to mitigate and appease their minds,
and by prayer with and for them to labour to make them live
peaceablie, and Christianlie in tyme coming, together.
Anent William Forbes of Tulloch and the rest, sumond to this
day pro I0., the Presbytrie officer gave in ane formall execution of a
sumonds fixt upon them, wherupon being called, and not compeiring,
they are all ordered to be sumoned literatorie to the nixt meeting
at Alfoord pro 2°.
The moderator recomended to the severall brethren present, that they
should be carefull to bring in their moyetie of the Contribution for the
ministers' widows to the approaching Synod, which ought to have been
payed at the last, which they all promised to do.
[Contribution for Eymouth. The privie censure past upon brethren.
The Lord's Supper observed.]
It being reported by the moderator and others, that severall servants
did forbear to comunicate, pretending they were not to remaine within
the parochine after the nixt terme, or had been partakers of the sacra
ment in the congregation from which they came, therfor it was thought
neidfull by the Presbytrie to referr it to the Bishop and Synod ensueing,
whether it was neidfull to expresse in testimonials their not comunicating,
that they may not frustrate themselves of such a precious benefitt, or
give scandall to others by their refusall.
It being also represented by severall brethren that severall persons
did consult ane dumb woman (alledged to be within the bounds of the
Presbytrie of Kincardine) in relation to stoln goods, and other secret
things, wherby was attained great enmitie among neighbours and scan
dall, that such persons should with impunitie harbour or advise an ill
report upon their neighbours, therfor the Presbytrie judged it fitt to be
recomended to the Bishop and Synod to obtaine their advice theranent.
It is lykwayes humblie and earnestlie desyred by the brethren of this
Presbytrie, that the Bishop and Synod, if they find it consistent with the
veneration due to their Acts and Institutions, that such of them as con-
cerne the people, and severall congregations, be appoynted to be publick-
lie intimated to them, and notice therof expressed in the severall Session
NN
282 RECORDS OF THE MEETING
books, that the people who pretend ignorance thcrof may be duelie and
tymeouslie acquainted thenvith.
[Fugitives from discipline in Alford Presbytrie.]
Wil. Garioch, Clerk to the Presbytrie.
At the King's Colledge Kirk October 10, 1677.
This Presbytrie book of Alfoord is approven by the Lord Bishop and
Synod, and the brethren of the said Presbytrie being removed were
approven.
Mr. Thomas Crevey,
Clerk to the Synod of Aberdeen pro tempore.
Referrs of the Synod of Aberdeen, holclen at the King's Colledge of
Aberdeen, by ane Right Reverend Father in God, Patrick, Lord Bishop
of Abercleine, and begun the nynth day of October 1677 yeires.
9 October 1677, post meridiem. Sess : i°.
Sermon being had in the Kirk of St. Machar, by Mr. George Gordon,
minister at Forgue absents noted viz. Mr. George
Watson, Mr. John Walker, and Mr. Robert Farquharson, but Mr. William
Christie is excused — all these absent out of Alfoord Presbytrie. Ther-
after, brethren are appoynted for visiting the severall Presbytrie books as
follows : —
For the Presbytrie book of Aberdeine, Mr. James Ross, at Clunie.
For Kincardine, Mr. Alexander Lunan, at Daviott.
For Alfoord, Mr. William Blair, at Fordyce.
For Garioch, Mr. Alexander Barclay, at Auchterless.
For Turreff, Mr. James Whytt, at Strichen.
For Deir, Mr. John Barclay, at Monqhwither.
For Ellon, Mr. George Strachane, at Old Aberdeen.
For Fordyce, Mr. John Cockburne, at Udnie.
And that such affairs as are to come befor the Synod might be better
prepared, and more speedilie dispatched, the Lord Bishop did appoynt
the brethren afternamed to meet for privie conference viz.—
All the moderators of the severall Exercises, with those of their
brethren added to them out of the respective Presbytries.
1677] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 283
For Aberdeen, Mr. George Meldrum, minister at Aberdeen ; Mr
James Gordon at Banchorie ; and Mr. Hendrie Scougall, Professor.
For Kincardine, Mr. Walter Alexander, at Eicht.
For Alfoord, Mr. Adam Barclay, at Keig.
For Garioch, Mr. Alexander Ross, at Monimusk.
For Fordyce, Mr. Arthur Strachane, at Mortlich.
For Turreff, Mr. George Garden, at Forgue.
For Deir, Mr. Robert Bruce, at Deir.
For Ellon, Mr. John Cockburne, at Uclnie.
10 October Sess : 2°. ante meridiem.
It is appoynted by the Lord Bishop and Synod, that there be a day
of solemne thanksgiving observed, throughout all the congregations
within this Dyocie, upon the Lord's day come a fourtcine dayes, being
the 28 of this present, for returning praise to the Lord for his goodnes
and mcrcie towards us, in giving us such a seasonable and plentifull
harvest ; as also that the third Wednesday of Fcbruarie nixt be kept
throughout all the congregations of this Dyocie, as a day of solemn
fasting and humiliation, for begging God's blessing upon the seed tyme
and Summer therafter ensueing.
It is appoynted that when anie persons remove from one parish to
another, the minister of the parish from which they do remove insert in
the certificat which he giveth to them, if they have neglected participation
in the sacrament of the Lord's Supper during their abode in the said
parish, when it was in their offer ; and that the severall ministers be care-
full to make intimation therof to their respective congregations, as also of
all other Acts of the Synod which doe concerne their people, that none
of them may, in tyme coming, pretend ignorance.
It is appoynted by the Lord Bishop and Synod, that when anie
ministers within this Dyocie who have a liquidat soume condescended
upon by decrcit, for provyding comunion elements yeirlie, shall, for some
urgent reasoncs, be necessitat to forbear the administration of the sacra
ment to their people for a yeir or more, that the said ministers shall make
forthcoming the said soume appoynted for comunion elements, yeirlie,
and so long as the sacrament is not administered by them, to be im-
ployecl for supplie of the poor, or other pious uses.
284 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1677
The Presbytrie book of Alfoord is appro ven, the brethren also of the
said Presbytrie being removed had a good testimonie, and were approven.
Eodem die post meridiem. Sess : 3°.
It is appoynted that the brethren nominat for privie conference, to
gether with Mr. John Menzeis, Professor, shall be in readines, upon
advertisement, to keep meetings with the Lord Bishop, betwixt and the
nixt Synod, if it shall be found neidfull to call them, and that Mr.
Robert Burnet at Rayne keep the said meetings, in case Mr. Alexander
Ross at Monimusk be necessarlie hindred.
[Contributions for the repairing of the harbour of Eymouth.]
1 1 October Sess : 4°. ante meridiem.
It is ordered by the Lord Bishop and Synod that such ministers as
are deficient in paying the bursers of Divinitie shall have no voice in the
nomination of their Presbytrie bursar, when the place is vacant, as also
that no Students of Divinitie who are chaplaines, or have anie other
charge, wherby they may be sufficientlie maintained at the profession,
shall be presented to the Presbytrie burses in anie tyme coming, and if it
shall happen that anie who shall be presented to Presbytrie burses shall
therafter come to enjoy anie other benefice or charge, wherby they may
be maintained at the profession, that in this caice they shall instanter
clemitt their Presbytrie burses.
It is recomended to the Parish of Alfoord to call Mr. James Gordon,
some tyme minister at Coule befor them, and try whether he doth bap
tize and marrie, he being deposed, and prohibited so to do, and, if they
find evidence therof, to carrie on a process of excomunication against
him.
The Lord Bishop and Synod did appoynt two of the brethren of each
Presbytrie, to take ane accompt of, and notice the mortifications within
their bounds, whether they are secured and improven, and make re
port viz. The moderators of the severall Presbytries, and for Aberdeen,
Mr. James Gordon at Banchorie, for Deir, Mr. Robert Burnie, for Ellon,
Mr. John Ross, for Garioch, Mr. Robert Burnet, for Fordyce, Mr. William
Blair, for Turreff, Mr. John Barclay, for Kincardyne, Mr. John Keith,
and for Alfoord, Mr. Adam Barclay.
1677] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORU 285
Mr. Alexander Lynd, some tyme Schoolmaster at Meithlick, is
recomendcd to the charitable supplie of the several 1 congregationes
within this Dyocie, but especiallie those who have not alreadie supplied
him.
As also Alexander Ross ane aged and indigent person, within the
Presbytrie of Kincardine, is recomended to the charitable supplie of the
severall congregations within this Dyocie.
At Old Aberdeen October 10, 1677.
The brethren of the Presbytrie mett in King's Colledge Church, and
appoynted their next meeting to be at Alfoord October 31, and Mr.
James Irvine to be in readines to sustaine the questionarie tryall, accord
ing to the former ordinance.
At Alfoord October 31, 1677.
Mr. James Irvine sustained his questionarie tryall, and because manie
of the brethren were absent, they thought fitt to delay the passing of
censure upon this poynt of tryall, till the most should be present.
And in respect the moderator had received a letter from our Ordin-
arie, the Bishop of Aberdeen, desyring that Mr. Alexander Forbes,
preacher of the gospel, within the bounds of this Presbytrie, might be
admitted to his tryalls, in order to his being setled in the ministrie at
the Church of Kearne, in whose favors he had received a presentation
therto, from my Lord Forbes, patron of the samcn, which letter was
publicklie read by the Clerk, carrying lykewise that the Presbytrie, in
respect of the said Mr. Alexander's more than ordinarie abilities, should
expede his tryalls at two dyets sett apart for that effect ; therfor the
Presbytrie, in obedience herto, appoynted the said Mr. Alexander to
have ane popular sermon on 2 Timothy 3. 15, and lykewise to be in
readines against the nixt day to sustaine the tryall of the Languages,
and the questionarie tryall.
In respect there were two young men passing their tryalls, the
Presbytrie thought fitt to delay the passing of the privie censure upon
the severall brethren at the nixt meeting, as the custome hertofor was,
286 RECORDS OF THE MEETING
till the meeting imediatlic befor the next Synod, at which meeting Mr.
John AT air is appoynted to have halfe ane houres discourse, relative to
ministerial! duties.
Anent William Forbes of Tulloch, Jean Ross his spouse, James
Davidson in Uppermylne, and several! others in Keig, contumacious to
the discipline there, for abandoning the sacrament of the Lord's Supper
at their owne parish Church, the Prcsbytrie officer reported that he had
not cited them to this day. He is appoynted to summoned them to the
nixt meeting pro 2°.
[Supplie for the vacancie at Cabrach. Mr. James Gordon in Soccoh
to appeir befor the Presbytrie of Alfoord. Brethren observed the
thanksgiving.]
At Alfoord November 21, 1677.
Air. Alexander Forbes had a popular sermon &c.
Anent William Forbes of Tulloch, Jean Ross his spouse, and the rest,
the officer gave in ane execution of a summonds laid upon them, wherfor
being called, they compeircd, and William Forbes of Tulloch being posed
if he was guiltie of the forbearing of the sacrament at his owne church,
answered that he desired to have ane extract of his processe, wherupon
it was read in his audience, but they denyed to give him ane extract
therof, till he should professe guiltie or not guiltie, which he refused to
doe unles he got ane extract of his processe, wherupon the moderator
summoned him judiciallie to appeir at the nixt meeting December 19,
pro. 3°.
William Leech and Margaret Smith submitted themselves, wherfor
they are appoynted to return back to Keig, and satisfie there as it should
be appoynted them. The rest refusing to submitt are summoned judi
ciallie pro. 3".
Mr. William Thomson dclat Janet Petrie in Auchindore, for cursing
and imprecating grievouslie in their Church, befor all the people. He is
appoynted to cause summond her to the nixt day.
Mr. Robert Farquharson to supply Cabrach, and to
1677] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORIX 287
cause the officiar of Cabrach fix a literall summonds upon Mr. James
Gordon in Soccoh, to appeir befor the Presbytrie of Alfoord December 19.
The moderator, cnquyred if those brethren, who were absent the
former day, had observed the publick thanksgiving; all answered positive,
except Mr. Robert Farquharson, Mr. John Mair, and Mr. George Watson,
who, being absent from the Synod, alledged they knew not of the
appoyntment therof, not being acquainted by the moderator, or Clerk.
[Thanksgiving observed].
At Alfoord December 19, (1677).
Mr. Alexander Forbes had ane Exegesis De ScJiismate, &c.
and is to receive a recomendation from the moderator to the Bishop,
in order to his ordination and admission to the Church of Kearne.
Mr. John Irvine is appoynted to have a common head De perfectione
Scriptures, &c
Mr. Robert Farquharson reported that he had supplied Cabrach,
and had charged Mr. James Gordon in Soccoh verballie, which "was not
sustained, wherfor Mr. Patrick Copland being ordained to supplie
next, his servant is to carrie a literall summonds to the said Mr.
James to the next dyct, Januarie 16, 1678 pro i°.
Compeired William Forbes in his own name, and in the name of
Jean Ross his spouse, and being desired to give his answer, whether
he was guiltie or not guiltie of the constant contempt of the sacrament
of the Lord's Supper, by withdrawing from the same at his owne church
for severall yeirs, he answered that he desired ane extract of his
process ; it was answered that there was no further process than was
alreadie told him, nor is it usuall to give out extracts befor delinquents
either doe denie or confess their guilt, wherupon the said William, in
his owne name and wife's did appcall to the Bishop and Synod, and
promised to give in his appeall to the moderator within terme of law.
Compeired James Davidson, and being charged with the guilt of
the contempt of the Sacrament, for three severall yeirs within the
parish of Keig, denyed the said fact as it was charged, but he being
found guiltie by the sentence of the Session and declared contumacious,
the minister of Keig is appoynted to pronounce the sentence of Lesser
288 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1678
Excomunication upon him, if he still continue refractorie. Alexander
Leech and the rest did not appeir, but the minister reported he was
hopefull they would submitt themselves.
At Alfoord Januarie 16, 1678.
There was no exercise.
Mr. Patrick Copland reported that he had supplied Cabrach, and
had caused his officer lay on a summonds upon Mr. James Gordon
in Soccoh, to appeir befor the Presbytrie of Alfoord upon the 16 of
Januarie, who being called, and not compeiring, is ordained to be
summoned pro 2°.
Mr. William Burnet is appoynted to go to Cabrach betwixt and
the next meeting, and preach to the people, and to take his officiar
with him, and lay on a literall summonds upon Mr. James Gordon
in Soccoh, to appeir befor the Presbytrie of Alfoord, pro 2°.
Mr. Thomas Garden reported that he had given institution to Mr.
Alexander Forbes, and that upon the 13 day of Januarie last 1678.
This day being stormie and tempestuous absents are excused.
At Alfoord Februarie 6, 1678.
Mr. James Irvine handled that head De perfectione Scripturae,
and therafter sustained the rest of the questionarie tryall. Most of
the brethren were not satisfied therwith. Touching the Exegesis,
they judged the matter of it tolerable, but were dissatisfied with his
imperfect way of delivering it. He is appoynted against the next
day to have ane exercise upon the ordinarie matter, i Corinthians i. 13.
Mr. William Burnet reported that he had not gone to Cabrach,
according to the ordinance of the Presbytrie, by reason of the stormines
of the weather. Mr. James Irvine is ordained to supplie it once, betwixt
and the next meeting, and to cause the officiar of Cabrach to lay on a
literall summonds upon Mr. James Gordon in Soccoh, to appeir befor
the Presbytrie of Alfoord Februarie 27, pro 2°.
The moderator reported that William Forbes of Tulloch had delivered
to him, within terme of law, a formall appeall from the Presbytrie of
1678] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 289
Alfoord, to the Bishop and Synod of Aberdeen, which was publicklie
read, and was delivered to Mr. Adam Barclay to give in a replye to the
same, seeing he was best acquaint with the circumstances therof.
Mr. Adam Barclay reported that James Davidson in Uppermylne had
refused to submitt himself to the Session of Kcig, and that therfor he had
pronounced the sentence against him.
He reported likewise that Alexander Leith in Bridghall had satisfied
their discipline, and that he was hopefull that William Leech and
Margaret Smith would be the same.
[Fast and humiliation, for a blessing upon the good tymes.]
The nixt meeting appoynted to be at Alfoord, Februaric 27.
At Alfoord Februarie 27, (1678).
Mr. James Irvine had ane Exercise &c.
The said Mr. James reported that he had, according to the ordinance
of the Presbytrie, supplyed Cabrach, but that there was not a summonds
fixt upon Mr. James Gordon in Soccoh, in respect of his absence. He is
appoynted yet at once to supplie it, betwixt and the nixt meeting, and
Mr. William Thomson undertook to cause his officiar go to Soccoh, and
fix a litterall summonds upon Mr. James Gordon there, to appeir befor the
Presbytrie of Alfoord pro. 2°., March 20.
[Fast and publick humiliation.]
At Alfoord March 20, (1678).
Mr. James Irvine had a popular sermon upon Matthew 9. 13, and
therafter sustained the dispute upon his theses, and was approven in both.
Therafter the brethren coming to revise the severall poynts of his tryalls,
and finding that he had not given satisfaction in the second point of
tryall, the questionarie tryall, as well as in the first that of the Languages,
they appoynted him against the nixt meeting to be in readines to
sustaine the questionarie tryall over againe, and the tryall of the
OO
290 RECORDS OK TIIK MKKTINC, [I(^7>S
Languages, Greek and Hebrew. The nixt meeting is appoyntcd to be
Apryll 20, at which Mr. John Mair is to have a discourse for half anc
hourc, relative to ministeriall duties.
Mr. Adam Barclay presented a paper subscribed by some of the
heritors of Keig, desiring it might be insert in the records of the IVesby-
trie, which, was granted, the tennor of it is as follows —
At Keig the 23 day of October 16/6 yeirs, George Gordon, younger
of Terpersie, William Forbes of Tulloch, and James Farquhar of Little
Cattie, having convcined themselves of their owne free will, for accomo-
dating themselves, or their servants in the roomes allotted to their
res])ective lands, (within the said parish of Keig) have found it conven
ient, with all their consents, that James Farquhar of Little Cattie shall
have, for the accomodation of himself and his familie, or anie others that
shall possess or indwell upon Little Cattie, the roome after mentionat,
that is to say, the said roome designed to him shall begin at the West-
most cheik of the door of the Kirk of Keig, extending itself to the South-
most corner of the said Church, and from that corner Northward the
gavill, till it come within four fingers breadth to the third geist of the
common loft, as it is presentlie marked. And the said George Gordon
and William Forbes for themselves, their heirs, and successors, do
renounce all title, claime, or interest they could have or pretend to the
samyn roome, by virtue of anie former division of the said Kirk, or anie
other manner of way whatsomever ; which roome, designed in the
manner above expressed, the said James Farquhar for him, his heirs, and
successors, accepts of as his proportion of the said Kirk and
both for himselfe and tennants, belonging to the lands of Little Aber-
cattie, without prejudice of anie right he has, or may pretend to the
common loft, or anie other common stall of the said Church, in common
with the rest of the heritors and parishioners. And since the said James
has herby accepted of the place above designed, as his full proportion of
anie roomes he can ask or requyre for the lands forsaid, by vertue of anie
division made formerlie, and regraitt in the Presbytrie books ; therfor the
said William Forbes binds him and his forsaicls to warrant the roome so
designed to the said James and his forsaids forever, at the hands of him
selfe and forsaids allanerlie. And for the more securtie all parties are
l6/8] OF THE EXKKCISK OF ALFORD. 2QI
content and consent that the above written premisses be regratt and
insert in the Presbytrie books of the Presbytrie of Alfoord, or anie other
books competent within this kingdome, there to remaine ad futumin ret
memoriam, or to have the strength of anie of their decreits interponit
therto, and that these and all other rolls may passe thcron in forme as
effeirs and constituts (iiauies not entered] their lawfull procurators to
consent therto.
In witnes \\-herof ther presents are subscribed by all the above-
named persons, day and dait forsaid, befor witnesses Mr. Adam Barclay,
Minister at Keig, Mr. Arthur Forbes, Schoolmaster there, and Patrick
Farquhar of Minnar.
Written hcirof Subscribitur
Mr. Adam Barclay, Witnes. George Gordon.
Mr. Arthur Forbes, Witnes. W. Forbes.
Pat. Farquhar, Witnes. James Farquhar.
Mr. Adam Barclay gave in a replye to the appcall of William
Forbes of Tulloch, which was read in audience of the Presbytrie, and,
as to the substance of it, was approved, and both the appeall and
replye to the same were deposited in the Clerk's hands to be for the
command of all who have interest.
Mr. James Irving reported that he hud supplyed Cabrach since the
last meeting, and, seeing Faster was now approaching, at which tyme
most of the brethren were to celebrate the sacrament, therfor none
would engage to supplye it betwixt and the nixt meeting.
Mr. William Thomson reported that he had caused his officiar
repair to Soccoh, and fix a literall summonds upon Mr. James Gordon
there, to appeir bcfor the Presbytrie of Alfoord, pro 2"., who being
called, and not compeiring, is ordained to be summoned pro 3"., and
Mr. William Christie, moderator, to cause his officiar lay it on.
At Alfoord Apryl 10, 1678.
Mr. John Mair according to the former ordinance had half ane
houris discourse of pastorall duties, and theraftcr privie censure past
upon the brethren present (being removed one by one) after that the
forme of visitatione of Churches was publicklie read by the moderator,
292 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1678
listened to by all, but nothing found in anie worthie of publick
censure, except in Mr. Patrick Copland, who was gravelie admonished
by the moderator, for his indiferent behaviour, and unmanerlie
expressions, at the tymc of the designation and measureing of his
gleibe and grass, which gave no small scandall to the gentlemen and
witnesses present, which is aggravated by his present stubbornes in
not accepting the present admonition. Therfor the brethren did
certifie him that, if he did persevere in that his proud unpersuadable
humour, they would report to the Bishop their Ordinarie, for further
censure.
Mr. James Gordon in Soccoh being summoned to this meeting
pro 3"., compeired, and being charged with his irregular and unwar
rantable baptizing and marrying of persons, and particularlie of one
Donald McLachlan and Christian Cruckshank, within our bounds, he
did denye the same flatlie, and the said Christian being present did,
on the other hand, confidentlie averr that she was married by him,
offering to verifie the same on her knees by oath, in presence of the
Presbytrie, which the said Donald appearing a little after did confirme,
offering the self same evidence ; this being done in the presence of
the said James Gordon, he persevered in his deniall, and did not
decline to give his oath in the verie contrarie, if the Presbytrie would
accept it, but because the case was doubtfull, and not ordinare, it
was referred to the Bishop and Synod for advice.
Mr. James Irvine sustained ane second questionarie tryall, and
was tryed in the Languages againe, that the brethren might be more
clear in determining in reference to their testimonie they were to give
to the Bishop theranent. He was as yet found ignorant in the
Greek, and although he did not give such abundant satisfaction in
his other tryalls, yet the pluralitie of the Presbytrie, from a compassionat
consideration of the case of the people of Cabrach, and of the
condition of the said Mr. James who promised to improve himselfe
more and more by prayer and studie, did recomend him to the Lord
Bishop for ordination.
[Supply for Cabrach.]
The brethren of the Presbytrie seriouslie considering the irreverence
of people, in the tyme of publick prayer and praising God in their
1678] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 293
severall churches, by their sitting and uncomelie gesture in tyme of
sermon, covering their heads, and making no more difference in their
behaviour in the house of God than in their privat houses, or rather
less, seeing that they kneeled in their privat worship, therfor the
Presbytrie did referr the regulating of the said indecencies to the
Bishop and Synod.
(4 cases of discipline, and names of fugitives from discipline for the
half year.)
Wil: Garioch, Clerk to the Presbytrie of Alfoord.
Refcrrs of the Synod of Aberdeen holden Apryll 1678.
Apryll 16. After sermon had in the Church of Old Machar, by Mr.
Robert Reid, minister at Upper Banchorie, &c.
The visiting of the Presbytrie book of Alfoord is for some reasons
continued till the nixt Synod.
It is recommended to the severall moderators to be carefull in calling
to ane account the brethren within their boundes if they do not celebrat
the sacrament of the Lord's Supper in their respective congregations, at
least once within each year ; and that, conforme to ane ordinance of the
former Synod, they requyre such ministers as have not given the com
munion as said is, to make furthcoming what is condescended upon by
law for provyding communion elements, to be imployed for pious
purposes.
It is recommended to the brethren of the Presbytrie of Garioch to
correspond with the brethren of the Presbytrie of Alfoord, in examining
the matter anent Mr. James Gordon, sometyme minister at Coule, his
disorderlie marrying of persons.
It is appoynted that when anie persons under sentence of excommu
nication do supplicatt a Presbytrie for relaxation, that the Presbytrie
referr them to the Lord Bishop, bcfor they be admitted to the publick
profession of their repentance.
It is appoynted that if anie minister within this Diocie, after frequent
admonitions given him, for his absence from Presbyteriall meetings,
shall, notwithstanding, continue to absent himselfe without a relevant
excuse, the moderator of the Presbytrie give notice therof, with the first
conveniencie, to the Lord Bishop, from whom the Presbytrie is to receive
order for suspending such a brother from the exercise of his ministrie.
294 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1678
The Act of the former Synod, anent taking anc accompt of Mortifica
tions, is againe renewed and recommended.
It is appoynted that the sevcrall brethren have in readines, against
their second Presbyteriall meeting after this Synod at farthest, the
collections from their respective congregations, for relieving the Monross
(Montrose) captives taken by the Turks, and repairing the harbour of
Kymouth, conforme to the Acts of his Majesty's Councell theranent,
printed copies vvherof had been formerlic sent by the Lord Bishop to
most of the Presbytries ; and that the said contributions be delivered to
the moderators of the several! Presbytries, who are to deliver the same to
the generall collectors appoynted by his Majestie's Secret Councell.
It is appoynted by the Lord Bishop and Synod, that there be a meet
ing of some brethren out of each Presbytrie, kept at Old Aberdeen upon
the 21 day of May nixt ensuing, being Tuesday ; and from the Presby
trie of Alfoord, the moderator, Mr. Adam Barclay, Mr. Robert Irvine at
Towie, and Mr. Thomas Garden at Clatt.
Robert Farquhar ane aged, blinde, and indigent person, within the
Presbytrie of Kincardine, is recommended to the charitable supplic of
the severall congregations within this Diocie.
Nixt meeting
[List of fugutives from discipline.]
At Old Aberdeen Apryll 17, 1678.
The brethren of the Presbytrie mett in King's Colledge Church, and
appoynted their nixt meeting to be at Alfoord May 8 ; and in respect
Mr. John Robertson, Student of Divinitie, within the bounds of the
Presbytrie, was this day recommended by severall of the brethren, for
entering upon his tryalls, in order to publick preaching, the moderator,
Mr. Adam Barclay, and Mr. Robert Irvine declaring, that after private
examination of him in the severall poynts of Literature, they had found
ground to recommend him to publick tryall. Wherupon he was
appoynted to be in readines to sustaine the tryall of the Languages,
Greek and Hebrew, against the next day, and to bring with him
testimonies from the Universitie where he commenced Mr. of Arts, and
from the respective Professors of Divinitie, of his proficiencie in the
studie therof.
OF THE KXKRCISE OF ALFORI).
At Alfoord May 8, 1678.
Mr. John Robertson sustained his tryall, &c.
295
At Alfoord June 5, (1678).
Mr. Robert Irvine had a discourse, for halfe an hour, from Titus i. 7.
[Privy censure Mortifications and frequent absence of
brethren from Presbyteriall meetings.]
In respect there was much discipline pending, the brethren thought
fitt to supersede Mr. Robertson's tryalls, and take in the discipline, and
the said Mr. John is appoyntect to be in readines to sustaine the question-
arie tryall at the next dyett.
Mr. Adam Barclay reported that James Davidson had supplicated
their Session for absolution. lie is appoynted to cause summoncl him
to the Prcsbytrie to receive his sentence.
Mr. Thomas Garden reported that he had given institution to Mr.
James Irvine upon the 12 of May last.
[Anniversarie of the King's nativitie.]
At Alfoord July 3, 1678.
Mr. John Robertson sustained the questionarie tryall, &c.
Mr. Adam Barclay reported that Mr. James Davidson was sum
moned to this meeting, and that he intended to have kceped it, but that
he was sent to Aberdeen by my Lord Forbes in the beginning of the
week. The Presbytrie therfor remitted to the said Mr. Adam to accept
of his satisfaction.
It was thought fitt by the Presbytrie that all the mortifications
within the samyn should be given up, and recorded in the Presbytrie
books. The respective brethren present were therupon desyred to give
up a list of their severall mortifications the next day.
At Alfoord July 24, 1678.
Mr. John Robertson had ane Exegesis De purgatorio, &c.
296 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1678
Mr. William Thomson reported that Janet Petrie had offered satis
faction, and that, through her infirmitic and \veaknes of bodie, she could
not travel to the meeting place. Wherupon the Presbytrie remits her to
the minister and Session.
According to the appoyntment the last day, touching the mortifica
tions, the respective ministers gave in ane accompt as follows, the
moderator of 25OOth merks well secured, Mr. Robert Irvine of 3<X)th
merks, Mr. George Watson of 2OOth merks, Mr. John Mair of 200 merks.
At Alfoord August 21, (1678.)
Mr. John Robertson sustained the dispute upon his theses, &c. . . .
James Davidson, in Keig, has satisfied their discipline.
William Garrioch of Archballoch produced a paper, desiring it
might be regrat in the records of the Presbytrie, which was granted,
the tenor therof is as follows —
At the Kirkton of Alfoord the 20 June 1676 yeirs, I, George
Garioch, in Bogincuill, have, by the tenor herof, given and granted,
and by ther presents dispones, assignes, and overgives to William
Garioch in Broadhaugh, my brother's son, ane dask within the Church
of Alford, lying upon the West side of the pulpit, next the Southmost
side of the Church, which pew I possesse these fourtic yeirs for my
accomodation and familie, and now, for onerouse causes, I have
disponed and assigned my right and title to the said William
Garioch, his heirs, and assigneys, to be used, brooked, and enjoyed
by him, as his ovvne seat, oblidging me and my heirs that I nor
they have not done, or shall doe anie thing to the contrarie herof;
that is to say, warranting this present right of alienation from my
ovvne proper fact and deid. And, for the more securtie, I am content
that this present right freelie granted by me, be put in the Presbytrie
and Session books of Alford, there to remaine in futuram rei memo-
riam — In witnes wherof thir presents are written by Alexander
Garioch, son to the said William Garioch, and subscribed with my
hand at Bogincuill, the twentie second day of June yeir forsaid, befor
witnesses, Mr. George Melvill, minister at Alford, and William Ritchie,
son to Mr. Walter Ritchie.
William Ritchie, witnes, George Garioch.
George Melvill, witnes.
OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 297
At Alfoord September 11, (1678).
Mr. John Robertson exercised &c.
At Old Aberdeen October 10, 1678.
This Presbytrie book of Alfoord is appro ven.
Mr. Th. Crevey, Clerk to the Synod of Aberdeen.
At Alfoord, October 2, 1678.
Mr. John Robertson delivered a popular discourse from Psalm
9, and was approven in this and the rest of his tryalls ; and is
appoynted to have a recommendation from the moderator to the Lord
Jishop, in order to his being licensed to preach the gospell publicklie.
Mr. John Walker produced a paper containing a division of the
Kirk of Tillinesell, hoping it might be insert and regratt in the records
of the Presbytrie, which was accordinglie granted, the tenor of the
paper is as follows —
At Alfuird the 25 of September 1628.
After incalling of God's holie name.
The brethren appoynted by the Presbytrie, for parting the Kirk
Tillinessell, reported their diligence, namelie, that, with consent of
the minister and heritors of the parish, they had divyded the Kirk as
after follows-To the goodman of Terpersie is allotted, with his owne
:onsent, according to his heritage, four ells from the East side of the
pulpit, beginning at the East stanshion of the window next to the
pulpit, and leading Eastward to the West side of the fourth couple
East gavell. To the goodman of Whythaugh is allotted
East side of the said fourth couple twelve ells, containing
the whole East gavell, and Westward the North side of the Kirk
equalhe betwixt the thretteinth and fourteinth couples. To the Laird
of Echt two ells leading to the West, betwixt the said pulpit and the
i>r> r r *~
PP
298 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [l6/S
Kirk doore. Behind the doore on the South side in the West gavell
is allotted to the goodman of Whythaugh six ells. Extracted out of
the register of the Presbytrie of Alfoord by me under subscrivand.
Sic subscribitur John Young, Clerk to the Presbytrie.
The sacrament of the Lord's Supper was celebratt, &c.
Wil: Garioch,
Clerk to the Presbytrie of Alfoord.
Referrs of the Synod of Aberdeen holden in October 1678.
At Old Aberdeen October 8.
After sermon had in the forenoon by Mr. John Barclay, minister at
Crouden, &c.
October 9 Sess : 2'. ante meridiem.
There was presented ane Act of His Majestie's Councell, appoynting
a voluntarie contribution to be gathered for repairing the harbours of
Peterhead and Stonehyve, which Act being read publicklie, and printed
copies therof delivered unto the moderators of the severall Presbytries, to
be distributed by them to their respective brethren, it was seriouslie re
commended to all the brethren within this Diode, to be carefull of
intimating and reading the said Act unto their respective congregationes,
and that they deliver the contributions from their severall parishes to
their respective moderators, who are appoynted to bring the same in at
the next meeting of the Synod, that the said collections may be delivered
to Andrew Watson, Bailie in Peterhead, conforme to the said Act of
Secret Councell.
It is ordained that if anie of the ministers within this Diocie shall be
found negligent of the observation of the 29 of May, as the same is
ordered to be kept by authoritie, that they be publicklie admonished
befor the Presbytrie, and if they continue therafter so to doe, that the
matter be represented to the Bishop, who is to give order for the suspend
ing of them ; and it is likewayes appoynted that no ministers withdraw
from home about that time, without first representing their excuse to the
Presbytrie, or moderators therof, and being approven.
OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 299
It is recommended to the severall brethren within this Diocie, to
make search if there be anie within their respective charges, who are
about the sending of their children out of the country to Popish Colledges,
and to give notice therof tymouslic to the Bishop.
It is appoynted that the bursars of Divinitie, who do presentlie enjoy
the Presbytrie burses, or herafter shall be admitted unto them, be payed
out of ilk parish church, conforme to the quota and proportion which
hath been at anie tyme formerlie paid out of the said parishes unto
others, and no less ; and it is likewise ordained that, in each Presbytrie
register where there is ane account given of the congregationes in which
the communion hath been celebrat, there be likewise in the same place
yeirlie ane account given of those ministers who have payed the bursars
of Divinitie, and of such as are deficient.
The book of Alfoord, and brethren of the same Presbytrie were
approven.
[Thanksgiving for seasonable and plenteous harvest]
It is appoynted that the brethren of the Synod be in readines, when
soever the Bishop shall find needfull to call them, to meet upon a four
teen dayes advertisement, with certification of censure to the said who
shall be found absent.
At Old Aberdeen Oct 9, 1678.
[Next meeting of Alford Presbytery appointed.]
At Alfoord November 6, 1678.
[There was no exercise Next meeting privy censure.]
The minister of Kildrummie reported that Helen Archibald was
summoned to this dyett pro 2°., to answer for her profanation of the
Lord's day, by drinking and selling of drink in tyme of sermon, being
called, and not compeiring, it is ordained that she be summoned pro. 3°.
[Thanksgiving for harvest observed.]
KKCOKDS OF THE MEETING [1679
At Alfoord December 4, (1678).
By reason of the stormincs of the weather, onlie five of the brethren
did meet viz. Mr. Adam Barclay, Mr. John Walker, Mr. Robert Farquhar-
son, Mr. Patrick Copland, together with the Clerk, befor whom a letter
being produced from my Lord Bishop, ordaining Mr. Adam Barclay
moderator of the Presbytric, and Mr. Thomas Garden to supplie his place
at the dyets of his necessarie absence, and the meeting being constitute,
they did appoint their next meeting to be at Alfoord Januarie first, but
could not till the winter was over, appoint a dyet for the privie censure,
but appoyntcd Mr. John Walker to have the exercise upon the ordinarie
matter.
[Supply for vacancie at Alford.]
It is ordained that a fast should be kept upon the first Wednesday of
December, in reference to the further discoverie of the Popish plott
against the king, and the Protestant Religion within his dominions.1
At Alfoord Januarie I, 1679.
Mr. John Walker exercised &c.
[Vacancie at Alford supplied.]
It is referred to be advised with the Bishop and Synod, what course
should be taken with those who had absented themselves from the
church upon the day of fast, which was appointed by the Councell.
[Fast was observed.]
The moderators enquyred at the severall brethren present, if they had
observed the forsaid fast, who all answered that they had.
At Alfoord Januarie 29, (1679).
Mr. Robert Irvine exercised &c.
The minister of Kildrummie reported that he had given three publick
admonitions to Helen Archibald. The processe is ordained to be carried
on.
[Vacancy at Alfoord supplied.]
1 Note 29.
1679] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 301
Absence was judged excusable, in regard of the stormines of the
weather.
At Alfoord Februarie 26, (1679).
There was no exercise, Mr. Thomas Garden excusing himselfe, in
regard it was not his vice ; Wherupon the scroll of the order of the
exercise is ordained to be looked, wherby it is found that there had
been a mistake in the former ordinance, and that it falls to Mr. William
Garioch, who is ordained to follow upon the ordinarie matter of the
exercise.
The minister at Strathdon reported that the stormines of the
weather had hindered much the exercise of their discipline, and Elspet
Ross was not yet absolved.
The minister of Kildrummie reported that Helen Archibald was
prayed for pro i°. Februarie 16, but that she had come to him this morn
ing, and promised to give obedience to the discipline of the Church, but
could not come this day to the Presbytrie, wherupon no farder ordinance
was to pass upon her till the next meeting.
[Supply for vacancy at Alfoord.]
The minister of Strathdone did delait James Smith, as being con-
tumax to their Session, not satisfying the discipline therof, for profanation
of the Lord's day, by wronging his neighbour in killing his dogg. He
is ordained to be summoned to the next meeting pro i°.
Anent the observing of the anniversarie fast for the season.
The Moderator reported that Mr. Thomas Garden had made applica
tion to him desiring that his brother, Mr. William Garden might be
admitted to his tryalls, in order to his being licensed to preach, but that
he declared he could not take it upon him without the advice and
consent of the Presbytrie to have him admitted therto, onlie, at the said
Mr. Thomas' request, he was content to prescribe him, and did prescribe
the twentie fourth psalme in the Hebrew to be part of his tryall of the
Languages, if so be the Presbytrie were pleased to admit him therto at
this dyett. The matter being put to the voice of the brethren, the said
Mr. William having produced a famous testimonie from the Professors is,
by unanimous consent, admitted to the said tryall ; and having given
302 RECORDS OF THE MEETING
proof in reading the Hebrew, expounding the said psalme, and of his
skill in Greek, by expounding a portion of the New Testament ad
apertnram libri, he was approven in the said tryall of the Languages, and
is appoyntcd to have his questionarie tryall at the next meeting.
The moderator did intimat to the brethren that he had received a
letter from the Lord Bishop, which he read unto them, appointing the
next Synod to be upon the third Tuesday of March, and requyring them
to give up the names of the papists within their respective parishes, upon
the account, and with the qualifications contained in the said letter.
VVil: Garioch, Clerk to the Presbytrie.
At Old Aberdeen March 20, 1679.
This Presbytrie book of Alfoord, and brethren of the said Presbytrie,
are approven by the Lord Bishop and Synod of Aberdeen.
Mr. Th: Crevey, Clerk to the Synod.
Referrs of the Synod of Aberdeen holden in March 1679.
After sermon had in the forenoon by Mr. Alexander Mowat, minister
at Lesley, &c.
The Lord Bishop did represent that, upon the Act of Secret Councell
ordering a list of papists' names to be given up by the Bishops of each
Diocess, the laird of Cults — Gordon, — in the parish of Kennethmont, had
come and offered conference. Wherfor it is appointed that Mr. Adam
Barclay, moderator of the Presbytrie of Alfoord, and Mr. Robert
Farquharson, minister at Kennethmont, call for the said laird of Cults,
and confer with him, anent the point of his religion.
March 19 Sess : 2°. Ante meridiem.
[Collections toward the repairing the harbours of Stonehyve and
Peterhead.]
It is recommended to the brethren of the Presbytrie of Alfoord to
1679] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 303
enquyre at the executor of the late Mr. George Melvill, moderator of
the said Prcsbytrie, anent the collections for the relicfe of the Mon-
tross captives, or anie other contributions delivered to him when
living, by anie of the brethren of the said Presbytrie.
There was presented ane Act of his Majesty's Secret Councell,
appointing ane voluntar contribution to be granted unto ane Mercurius
Lascaris, a minister of the Greek Church, for ransoming his brother
and children, who arc captives with the Turks at Algiers.
[Collection recommended.]
It is appointed that, in all tyme coming, the visitors of the Presby
trie books excerpt the names of fugitives, or excommunicat persons,
recorded in the Presbytrie registers, and give them in to the Clerk of
the Synod.
It is recommended to the moderators of the severall Presbytries
to receive from their respective brethren ane mark Scots money,
appointed by the Synod, in October last, to be advanced to Mr. John
Cockburne, minister at Udny, for defraying his expenses in going
South, commissioner from the Lord Bishop and Synod to the Arch
bishop of St. Andrews, anent the affair concerning the Kirk of Mary-
Culter, and that the Clerk of the Synod send out with the referrs the
names of such as have not already payed.
Patrick Watson, indigent person in Bamph, is recommended to the
charitable supplie of the severall congregations within this Diocie.
The names of such as have not payed the commissioners' charges,
within the Presbytrie of Alfoord — Mr. John Mair, Mr. George Watson,
Mr. John Walker, Mr. Andrew Abercrombie, Mr. William Garioch,
Mr. Alexander Forbes.
(List of fugitives from church discipline, Ellon Presbytrie 5 ; Deer I.
Names of excommunicate persons given.)
At Old Aberdeen Martii 18, 1679.
The brethren of the Presbytrie did meet, and such of them as had
anie papists within their parishes, gave in a list of them to the
moderator, to be presented to the Bishop.
It is appointed Mr. John Mair supplie the vacancie of Alfoord,
betwixt and the next dyet of the Presbytrie.
304 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1679
At Alfoord Aprylis 9, (1679).
Mr. William Garden sustained the questionarie tryall, &c
and is approven. It is appointed he handle that head De invocatione
sanctorum, at the next dyet, and distribute his theses.
Helen Archibald for profaning the Lord's day by drinking, appearing
of her own accord, and confessing her sin, was ordained to satisfie as the
minister and Session should ordain her.
The minister of Cabrach did delait Mr. James Gordon, for exercising
the ministeriall function within his parish. He is appointed to cause
summoned him litera scripta, and witnesses to prove the charge.
[Supply for vacancy at Alford.j
At Alfoord May 7, 1679.
Mr. Andrew Abercrombie had a discourse relating to ministeriall
duties, from Acts 5. 42, and therafter, the privie censure passed upon
the respective brethren (after that the order for trying of ministers
within their respective Presbytries was publicklie read, and the
brethren removed one by one), but nothing found worthy of a publick
rebuke, save in Mr. Andrew Abercrombie, who was rebuked for his
irregularitie in admitting James Smith to his profession of repentance,
befor he appeared befor the Presbytrie.
[Collections, Peterhead, and Mercurius Lascaris.]
Mr. William Garden handled the head De invocatione sanctorum, &c.
[Supply for a vacancy at Alford.]
At Alfoord June 4, (1679).
Mr. William Garden sustained dispute &c.
[Anniversary of king's birth and restoration.]
The minister of Cabrach reported that he had no officer who would
undertake to summond Mr. James Gordon. He is appointed to cite him
from the pulpit.
[Supply for vacancy at Alford.]
1679] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 305
At Alfoord Julii 2, 1679.
Mr. William Garden exercised &c. ......
The moderator presented a letter from the Bishop, recommending
Mr. Andrew Jeffray, a preacher of the gospell, to his tryalls, in order to
his plantation in the ministrie at the Church of Alfoord, appointing the
first point of his tryalls to be a head of Divinitie to be handled the first
dyet, and dispute therupon. In obedience to which, he was appointed
at the next meeting to handle that head De binis fideribus &c.
[Supply for vacancy at Alford].
At Alfoord Julii 30, (1679).
There was no exercise.
The minister of Cabrach reported that Mr. James Gordon was cited
to this meeting. Being called, and not compeiring, he is ordained to be
summoned pro. 2°.
The minister of Kildrummie reported that Bessie Leith was contu
macious to their discipline for cursing her neighbour on her knees, and
that she was cited to this dyet. Being called, and not compeiring, it is
appointed she be summoned pro 2°.
[Supply for vacancy at Alford.]
Mr. William Gordon requyring a tcstimonie from the Presbytric upon
the severall poynts of his tryall as they had heard, and desyring that, in
respect of his great distance, his popular sermon might be referred to the
audience of the Bishop, the Presbytrie condescended, and reflecting upon
the severall points of tryall, approved of the samme, and appoint him to
have a recommendation from the moderator to our Ordinarie, in order to
his being licensed to preach the gospell publicklie.
At Alfoord Augusti 13, (1679).
Mr. Andrew Jeffray delivered his exegesis &c
Bessie Leith ordered to be cited pro 3°.
The minister of Cabrach reported that he had forgot cause summond
QQ
306 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1679
Mr. James Gordon to this meeting. It is appoynted he be summoned
to the next.
[Supply for vacancy at Alford.]
At Alfoord Septembris 3, (1679).
Mr. Andrew Jeffray delivered a popular sermon &c
The said Mr. Andrew reporting that he was under the necessity of
going South to my Lord Bishop of Dumblane, in order to his settlement
at Alfoorcl, did supplicat the brethren that he might not be put to anie
further tryall, and this being considered, together with the long vacancie
of the church of Alfoord, it was thought fitt that his desire should be
granted, wherupon, after he was removed, and the brethren interrogat
concerning their satisfaction in all the points of his tryall, he was unani-
mouslie approven, and to be recommended to the Lord Bishop of Aber
deen that he might have ordination, as he thought fitt.
The minister of Cabrach reported that Mr. James Gordon was cited
to this dyet. Called and not compeiring, it is ordained he be summoned
pro. 3°.
[Vacancie of Alfoord supplied.]
Mr. William Garioch was appointed to have a discourse concerning
Pelacaus and his heresie.
At Alfoord Octobris I, (1679).
There was no exercise, although the speaker was in readines, in
respect the day was farr past befor the brethren met, it being exceeding
rainie and tempestuous.
The minister of Cabrach reported that Mr. James Gordon was law-
fullic cited to this dyet. Who being called, and compeiring, was accused
of intruding himself irregularlie into the ministeriall calling, and particu-
larlie of administrating baptisme to a child begotn betwixt Thomas
Gordon and (blank) Burges, in the parish of Cabrach, and of celebrating
marriage to William Fcrror and (blank} Melvin, citizens in Aberdeen.
But the said James obstinatlie denyed the first, and that he had not
baptixcd anie child of late, and refused to give anie account of the
second till probation should be led against him, alledging that he had
1679] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 307
been illegalic deposed, adding further, that, if the Lord Bishop would
see him payed of the just expense he had been at in repairing the Kirk
of Coul, he should find sufficient suretie that he should never presume
upon any part of the ministerial! office till he should be lawfullie called
thcrto, but if otherwise he would not spare to provyde for himselfe by
that sameter means, with some other wild and unseemlie expressions
unworthie to be recorded here ; he is cited apud acta to compeir at
our next meeting here this day six weeks, and it is recommended to
the moderator to get ane account of the witnesses at the next Synod,
as they were named by William Ferrar to the ministers and Session of
Aberdeen.
[Sacrament of the Lord's Supper observed. Collections for Peterhead
and Stonhyve harbours, Mercurius Lascaris the Grecian priest, and the
prisoners of Pittenwyme.]
At Old Aberdein Octobris 15, (1679).
At Alfoord November 12, (1679).
There was no exercise, the day being spent, and the speaker being
hindered by the baptizing of a child.
[Next day privie censure.]
The moderator presented a letter from the Lord Bishop, signifying
that it was his pleasure he should continue to moderate, and Mr. John
Walker to moderate in his absence.
The minister of Cabrach presented ane excuse from Mr. James
Gordon in Soccoh, for his absence this day, which was that his wife
was latelie dead, and his affairs in such disorder that he could not come
abroad, but that he promised to keep the next dyet, to which he is
appointed to be cited, with a certificat that, if he compeir not, the
Presbytrie will proceed to the examination of witnesses.
Likewise the moderator reported that he had sent the names of
the witnesses, as they were given in by William Ferrar to the minister
and Session of Aberdeen, which were John Stuart, William McWilliam,
John Broune in Cabrach, and Michael Dumbar in Glenbucket, to the
respective ministers of these parishes, with a precept from the Lord
308 RECORDS OK THE MEETING [1680
Bishop and Synod, to cite them to our meeting this day, to depone upon
oath in the affair of Mr. James Gordon.
There was also ane execution of a summonds lawfullie fixed upon
the forsaid witnesses, given in by the respective ministers, who being
called, and not compeiring, were appointed to be cited to the next
meeting pro 2".
At Alfoord Deccmbris 3, (1679).
Mr. William Christie had a discourse relating to ministcriall duties,
and therafter the privie censure passed upon the respective brethren, &c.
[Collections recommended by the Lords of his Majestie's Councill.
Mr. John Irving's pension.]
In obedience to the Act of the late Synod appointing anc election
of two out of evrie Presbytrie, to meet with the Lord Bishop the first
Tuesday of Februarie, for regulating the mortification for ministers'
relicts, and other affairs of great importance, the brethren did nominatt
the moderator, and Mr. John Walker, who were appointed to attend the
said dyet, and demean themselves conforme to the injunctions that
should be given them.
The names of the fugitives, contained in the referres, are appointed
to be publicklie intimated out of pulpit by evrie minister.
At Alfoord Decembris 31, 1679.
Mr. William Garioch had a discourse concerning Pelagius and his
heresie.
The minister of Cabrach sent ane execution of a summonds fixed
upon John Stuart, John Broune, William McWilliam, witnesses against
Mr. James Gordon, who being called, and not compeiring, it is ordained
that advertisement be sent to the said Mr. James of the next meeting,
and the witnesses to be cited pro 3°.
[The collections injoyned by the Privie Councill, and Mr. John
Irvine's pension.]
At Alfoord Januar. 28, 1680.
The moderator exercised &c.
l68o] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORI). 309
The next meeting is appointed to be this day moneth, and Mr.
Arthur Forbes, Schoolmaster at Keig is recommended by the minister
of Keig, as a person that had made some proficiencie in the studie of
Divinitie, and fit to have a specimen befor us. He is therfor appointed
the next day to have a discourse DC communione sub utraque specie.
The minister of Cabrach gave in ane execution of a summonds fixt
upon John Stuart, John Broune, William McWilliam in Cabrach, to
bear witness in the affair of Mr. James Gordon in Soccoh, who being
called, and compeiring, together with the said Mr. James, the said
Mr. James being interrogat whether he could object anie thing in
law against these witnesses, that would render them incapable of
bearing testimonie, did answer that they all did bearr him deadlie
malice, and therfor requyred their oathes de calumnia, which when
the moderator offered to tender to the said persons, they obstinately
refused it, and because the brethren were suspicious that the witnesses
were suborned by the said Mr. James in the matter, after they were
removed it was thought fit they should be further put to it, to declare
upon oath whether they were ingenuous in what they had said, or
were suborned by the said Mr. James, and being called in so to do,
they flatlie refused to obey. Upon this they were convict of disingen-
uitie, and contempt of the discipline of the Church. Wherfor the
minister of Cabrach is ordered to discipline them, and to give them
the first admonition betwixt and the next meeting.
The said Mr. James was cited apud acta to compeir here this day
moneth, and hear and see the same or further probation led against
him, with certification that, if he compeired not, the Presbytrie would
proceed to the examination of witnesses.
[William Lumsden fishing on the Lord's day.]
At Alfoord Februar : 25, (1680).
Mr. Arthur Forbes handled the head De communions sub utraque
specie, &c.
Mr. Alexander Forbes is ordained to have a discourse in English con
cerning Transubstantiation, next day
The minister of Cabrach reported that John Stuart, and William
M'William were not admonished, in respect they had promised to the
jIO RECORDS OF THE MEETING [l6So
moderator and him to come this day, and declare upon oath what they
knew in the matter of Mr. James Gordon. Wherupon the said John
Stuart and William M'William, after they had given their oath dc
calumnia, did declare that they saw and heard the said Mr. James celebrat
marriage to William Ferrar and (blank*} Melvin in Aberdeen, and the said
John had subscribed witnesse to a paper, in which Mr. James acknow
ledged his marrying of the forsaid persons.
[Fast lately appointed observed.]
At Alfoord Martii 17, 1680.
Mr. Alexander Forbes had a discourse concerning Transubstantiation,
and was approven.
The minister of Kildrummie reported that Bessie Leith was prayed
for pro 3°. who, of her own accord appearing, was sharplie rebuked for
her contumacie, and was returned to give publick satisfaction to the con
gregation of Kildrummie, and humblie acknowledge her offence against
God and her neighbour, and afterward to be absolved.
Compeired Michael Dumbar in Glenbucket, gave his oath de calumnia,
and deponed that he saw and heard Mr. James Gordon marric William
Ferrar to (blank} Melvin in Aberdeen, and that the said Mr. James had
lead his hand in subscribing witnesse to his acknowledgement of the
forsaid deid.
And it being now found that the forsaid scandall was sufficientlie
proven, by the deposition of three severall witnesses, it is appointed that
the said Mr. James be cited literascripta to appear befor the Lord Bishop
and Synod, according to the demerit of his offence.
[Collections recommended by the Privie Council!.]
Wil: Garioch, Clerk to the Presbytrie of Alfoord.
At Old Aberdeen, Apryle 1680.
This Presbytrie book of Alfoord is approven by the Bishop and
Synod of Aberdeen.
Mr. Th: Crevey, Clerk to the Synod.
l68o] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 311
Rcferrs of the Synod of Aberdeen, holden in Apryle 1680.
At Old Aberdeen Apryle 20, 1680.
Sess: i°. post meridiem.
[Contributiones for the harbours of Peterhead and Stonehyve.] . . .
Contributiones for reliefc of the Pittenweem captives
Anent the supplie of Mr. John Irvine, sometyme minister at Cabrach,
the Bishop and brethren of the Synod thought fitte, out of comiseration
unto his mean and distracted condition, to add a shilling sterling more at
each Synod, by and attour what was granted unto him formerlic, and
that this additionall supplie, where it can be convenientlie had, be taken
out of the kirk boxes of the severall parioches within this diocie, and
brought in to him at each Synod.
Apryle 21. Sess: 2. ante meridiem.
It is appointed that intimation be made unto the severall congrega
tions within this diocese, that whereas Mr. James Gordon, sometyme
minister at Coule, having been for severall scandalls deposed from the
office of the ministrie, doth notwithstanding intrude himselfe upon the
said holy function, by baptising and marrying of severall persons, for
which he is under church process and censure, that therfor no persons
doe resort unto him, either for the benefit of baptisme or marriage, with
certification of severe censure to be inflicted upon those who shall be
found to counterveen.
It is appointed that no excuse be taken of the hands of such brethren
as shall be absent from the Prcsbytries, although their excuse be other-
wayes relevant, if they neglect send ane account of their referrs which
are depending befor the Presbytrie, and the Presbytrie appoint their next
meeting to be at the kirk of such a brother as is ordinaric absent, and
who sends no account of his severall referrs.
The Presbytrie book of Alfoord, and brethren of the said Presbytrie
are approven. It being represented unto them, that there is one Janet
Menzies, who hath^come from the parioch of Glenbucket, being under
scandall there, and hath brought along with her to the minister of
Tarves, in whose parioch she now resides, a tcstimoniall, as from the
minister of Glenbuchet, which is found to be feigned and forged, the
312 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1680
Bishop and Synod doe appoint that the said Janet be processed, untill
she reports a sufficient tcstificat, and seeing it is reported that the person
who hath been the forger of the said testimonial! doeth reside within the
boundes of the Presbytrie of Alfoord, it is therfor recommended to the
brethren of that Presbytrie to enquyre for him, and censure him for so
doeing.
This day, was presented, and read publicklie, ane Act of His
Majestic's Secret Counsel!, appointing a voluntarie contribution to
be gathered throughout all this Kingdom, towardes the building of
ane harbour at Portsoy in the Parioch of Forclyce, this recommended
to the several! brethren within this Diocese
Likwayes was presented and read publicklie ane Act of His
Majestie's Secret Counsell, appointing a voluntarie contribution to be
gathered throughout all the Kingdom, for building a stone bridge
over the famous river of Ness ; this recommended
Anent Mr. James Gordon, formerlie minister at Coule, it being
found, by rcviseing the Presbytrie register of Alfoord, that the said
Mr. James is, by the depositiones of severall witnesses, convict of
intruding upon the ministeriall function by marrying persones dis
orderly, and as did appeare by the production of ane summondes
given in against him, that he is cited lawfullie to appeare befor this
meeting of the Synod, to answer and undcrgoe censure for his said
disorderly carriage, and being called, but not appeareing, the Bishop
and brethren considering that great scandall he has given, and does
still continue to give by his disorderly mcdlmg as said is, did therfor
think fitc that the said Mr. James be forthwith sentenced with the
lesser excommunication, with certification that, if against such a time
as be prefixed by the Presbytrie of Alfoord, he doe not submit himselfe
to the discipline of the Church, and remove the scandall he has given,
that therafter the greater sentence of excommunication be pronounced
against him, and that he be cited litera scripta to appeare befor the
Presbytrie of Alfoord to hear and sec himselfe decerned to be forthwith
sentenced as said is ; and if lie compcare that the certification above
expressed be intimat unto him ; and in like manner that he be assured
that, if he doe not give sufficient surtic for his carriage in time coming,
and that he shall no wayes intrude upon anie pairtc of the ministeriall
function, his carriage will be represented to the civil magistrat for
l68o] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD.
313
restraining of him. And it is recommended to Mr. Thomas Garden,
moderator of the Presbytrie of Alfoord, with the very first convenience
after that the said Mr. James is cited to compeir befor the Presbytrie
as said is, that he repaire to the Kirk of Cabrach upon a Lord's day,
and pronounce said sentence of the lesser excommunication against
the said Mr. James, and intimat to the congregation the certification
above expressed.
Sess : 3°. post meridiem.
It is appointed that when any Presby tries doe call in for the Session
bookes within their boundes, that some particular dyetes of the Presbytrie
be held apairte, for revising of them in presence of the whole Presbytrie.
Brethren appointed by the Presbytrie of Alfoord to meet, upon
advertisement from the Bishop, for revising and subscriveing the Collector
of the Centesima his accounts.
Apryle 22. Sess : 4°. ante meridiem.
It is recommended to Mr. Andrew Jeffray, present minister at
Alfoord, to defend by leave his right to the stipend of the said Church,
conforme to his presentation and collation unto the said benefice (if the
same shall happen to be questioned), as he will be answerable to the
Bishop and Synod.
It is appointed that such of the brethren as arc clear to advance seven
yeares annuitie of their stipends together for supplie of ministers' widows
and orphans, conforme to former Acts of the Synod, to give in the same
to the Collector, either at this Synod, or at farthest at Whitsunday next,
and that the rest continue to pay termlie conforme to the bond.
[Indigent persones recommended to the charitable supplie.]
(List of fugitives from Church discipline).
At Old Aberdeen, April 22, 1680.
Mr. Adam Barclay reported that Mr. Arthur Forbes Schoolmaster in
Keig, who had been a Student of Divinity four yeirs past, sustained a
tryall befor the Professor at Aberdeen, and being examined by himselfe
RR
3 14 RECORDS OF TIIK MEETING [1680
and Mr. Robert Irvine, was by them thought fit to be admitted to the
ordinarie tryalls, in order to the preaching of the gospell, whcrupon the
brethren present appointed the said Mr. Arthur to be in readines to
sustainc the tryall of the Languages, at the next dyet according to the
Acts of the Synod.
At Alfoord May 12, (1680).
The brethren did examine Mr. Arthur Forbes &c.
[The next meeting privy censure. Bessie Lcith satisfied discipline
and was absolved, also William Lumsden.]
The minister of Cabrach is appoynted, according to the order of
the Synod, to cause cite Mr. James Gordon in Soccoh, guiltie of cele
brating irregular marriage to William Ferrar, and Elizabeth Melvin,
in Aberdeen, to the next meeting to hear and sec himselfe decerned
to be sentenced in the lesser sentence, according to the order of the
Synod anent him.
The moderator distribut Acts of His Majestie's rrivic Councill,
for a voluntarie contribution for building a stone bridge upon the
water of Inverness, and recomcncled to the severall brethren, that they
would tymouslie and carefullie remember the same.
At Alfoord June 9, (1680).
The moderator had a discourse concerning ministeriall duties, &c.
[Privic censure passed upon the brethren. Anniversaries of our sove
reign's nativity and Restoration observed.]
Mr. James Irvine reported that no man would undertake to cite
Mr. James Gordon in Soccoh, for that he threatened violence to any
who should presume to be officer in his affair. It is appointed the
minister give him a publick citation from pulpit, betwixt and the
next meeting.
The brethren of the Presbytrie intending to begin their course of
visitation of Churches for this yeir, have appointed to meet at Kil-
drummie upon June 23, where Mr. John Mair is appointed to preach.
l68o] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 315
At Kildrummie June 23, (1680).
Mr. John Mair preached, text Hebrews 13. 17., &c
The names of the elders of Kildrummie are as follows, Alexander
Kcr, Robert Durret, John Cunnan, John Bunson, Peter Watt, who being
called did compcir, with such of the heritors and heads of families as
were present.
(The usual course taken as to minister and elders, and the usual
exhortations given to minister, heritors, elders, and masters of families —
see Cushnie p. 228.)
The minister was further interrogat whether there were anie mortifi
cations in the place. Unto which he answered that there were none, but
what was so inconsiderable that it did not deserve to be recorded.
The minister did further declare, upon enquiry, that there was a
schoolmaster in the parish, who had for maintenance seven bolls victuall
of the parish, with eighten pounds out of the poors money, for teaching
poor schollars.
He further reported that the fabrick of the kirk was in sufficient
repair, save what was wanting in the loss of some heather, which was to
be helped with the first conveniencie.
He further declared that he had a sufficient manse and gleib, com-
petencie of grass, foggage, fewall, feall, and divott.
Concerning church utensils, he declared that they had none save a
basin for baptisme, and two tables for the holy communion.
[The Privie Censure passed.]
The brethren appointed the next visitation to be at Clat July 21,
when Mr. Andrew Jaffray is appointed to preach. There is also another
visitation to be at Tullinessell July 22, and Mr. Andrew Abercrombie is
appointed to preach there.
At Alfoord Julii 7 (1680).
Mr. Arthur Forbes sustained his questionarie tryalls, &c.
[Contributions for the bridge of Inverness, and harbour of Portsoy.]
316 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1680
At Clatt Julii 21, (1680).
Mr. Andrew Jaffray preached, text John 21. 17
The names of the elders of Clat are as followes, John Gordon of
Knokcspoke, Arthur Dalgarno in Blairdinny, Thomas Paterson, Andrew
Coupcr, John Shirreffe, who being called did compeir with such of the
heritors, and masters of families as were present.
(The usual course followed as to minister and elders, and the usual
exhortations given to minister, heritors, elders, and heads of families —
see Cushnie p. 228.)
It is found there were no mortifications in the place, that there was
no schoole nor schoolmaster for the tyme. The minister is exhorted to
deal with the heritors to setle a provision for a schoolmaster, and to use
legall diligence for that effect, if neid be.
The fabrick of the Church is found to be entire.
As for Church utensils, there were two tables and a linnen cloath for
covering for the samyn, two silver cups for the use of the holy Com
munion. Such as are wanting are to be provided very shortlie.
The minister of Cabrach reported that Mr. James Gordon was cited
to this meeting litera scripta, who being called, and not compeiring, the
Moderator is to go to the Cabrach, according to the sentence of the
Synod, to excommunicat him with the lesser sentence.
At Tullinessell Julii 22, (1680).
Mr. Andrew Abercrombie preached. After sermon &c
The names of the elders are as followes, Alexander Chalmer in
Mongerrie, William Stewart, in Firrmilne, Arthur Donaldson, James
Smith, Patrick Clerihew, William Green.
(The usual course followed as to minister and elders, and the usual
exhortations given to minister, elders, and heads of families — see Cushnie
p. 228.)
It is found that there is of money mortified for the use of the poor,
four hundred and fiftie merks, which the Session thinks to be sufficientlie
secured.
That there was no Schoole nor Schoolmaster for the tyme. The
1680] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 317
minister is appointed to deal with the heritors to setle a provision for a
Schoolmaster, and to use legall diligence for that effect, if neid be.
The fabrick of the church is found to be entire.
As for church utensils, there are found a basin for baptisme, two
tables, a linnen cloath for covering the same, and two cups of tiun for
the use of the holy communion.
The minister desired to be excused for that the Session book was
not filled up, and presented to the ministers at the visitation. He is
appointed to make it ready betwixt and the next Synod.
At Alfoord Julii 28, (1680).
Mr. Arthur Forbes handled the head De perseverantia sanctorum,
&c
[Session book of Kildrummie approven.]
At Alfoord Augusti 18, (1680).
Mr. Arthur Forbes sustained dispute upon his theses, &c
Anent James Gordon in Soccoh, the moderator reported that he
had come to Clat, and offered sufficient suretie, that he should both
satisfie for whatsoever scandall he had already given by intruding
himselfe upon the ministeriall calling, and for his good deportment
for the future, and that in order to this he had appointed to meet at
Whytlumbs to the said Mr. James, who was to bring his sureties to
the forsaid place, for the effect above mentioned. The moderator
desiring the concurrence of some of the brethren in this affair, it is
appointed that he have the assistance of Mr. William Thomson,
minister, at Auchendore, in the expeding heirof.
The referres of the Synod were publicklie read and recommended,
particularlie the referr concerning the prohibiting of all persons from
having recourse to Mr. James Gordon, for baptisme, or marriage, or anie
other part of the ministeriall calling.
[Collections for the bridge of Inverness, and the harbour of Portsoy.]
It is likewise recommended that the names of the fugitives contained
RECORDS OF THE MEETING rl6go
in the referres be intimat from all the pulpits of the Presbytrie, and that
all the brethren be carefull hcirof.
At Alfoord September 15, (1680).
Mr. Arthur Forbes exercised &c.
Concerning Mr. James Gordon in'soccoh,' the moderator 'reported
the former appointment was frustrate, through the neglect of the
James and his sureties, who had not come to the place appointed
till three o clock m the afternoon, and that he had appointed with him
agame, at the same place, and should give account of the issue therof at
the Synod.
[Sacrament observed.]
It is likewayes found, upon enquyrie, that the brethren had prohibited
all persons within their respective parishes to have recourse to Mr
James Gordon in Soccoh, for baptisme, or marriage &c., according to the
ordinance of the last Synod.
[Most of the brethren present had paid the bursar. Session book of
:iatt approven. Mr. John Irvine's ordinary pension. List of fugitives
from discipline.]
Wil: Garioch, Clerk to the Presbytrie of Alfoord.
Rcferres of the Synod of Aberdein holden in October 1680.
At Old Aberdeen October 12.
It is appointed that the moderator of each Presbytrie doe call to
account such of their brethren as are absent from the Synod, and enquyre
whether they have payed their dues to the clerk and janitor, and the
contribution appointed for Mr. John Irvine, and that report be made
theranent in their Presbytrie register, and for that effect, that the Clerk
the Synod send out the names of the deficients, with the referres of the
Synod, that the moderator may cause them send in these dues, with the
first conveniencie thereafter.
l68o] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 319
October 13.
Mr. George Meldrum, Collector of the Annuitie of ministers' stipends,
did represent that there were some of the brethren within this Diocese,
who, although they have subscribed the bond for the said annuitie, yet
have not payed in anie moitie therof, and therfor it is hereby ordained
that, if they do not give satisfaction theranent, once befor the next
Synod, that the collector do use legall diligence against them ; as also
it is appointed that such as shall chuse to advance seven yeirs annuitie
together shall pay in the carent therof from Whitsunday last.
[Collections for the bridge of Inverness, and for relief of the
Pittenweyme captives.]
October 14.
The Presbytrie book of Alfoord, and brethren of the said Presbytrie
are approven. It is recommended to the brethren of the said Presbytrie
to call in for the Session books within their bounds, and to visit the
samen.
It being found that the sentence of the lesser excommunication hath
not as yet been pronounced against Mr. James Gordon in Soccoh, as was
appointed at the former Synod, thcfor the former order is renewed. And
seeing it is reported that the said Mr. James doth as yet continue to
marrie persons disorderlie, therfor it is appointed that the matter be ex
amined, and that the said Mr. James be requyred to remove the frequent
scandals he hath given by his intrusion on the holie ministrie, and in
caicc of his refusall, that a process be carried on against him, in order to
the greater excommunication. As also it is appointed that all such per
sons as pretend to have been married by the said Mr. James be processed
in the severall congregations where they live, as cohabiting together in
uncleanness, except they instruct their marriage by witnesses.
It is appointed that the severall moderators of Presby tries, together
with anie other whom the Presbytrie shall name, be in readines, upon
advertisement, to come into Aberdeen, in order to the tryals and
admission of Mr. James Gordon, minister at Cairnbie, to be Professor
of Divinitic in Old Aberdeen.
At Old Aberdeen October 13, 1680.
320 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [l68l
At Alfoord November 3, 1680.
Mr. Arthur Forbes delivered a popular sermon from Ecclesiastes
12. I, and the brethren upon a serious reflection upon this, and all
his other tryals, thought that he should have a recommendation to
our Ordinarie from the moderator, that, if he think fit, he may have
a license to preach the gospell publicklie, where Providence shall allow
him a lawfull call.
[At next meeting privie censure.]
At Alfoord December i, (1680).
The minister of Kildrummie had a discourse concerning ministeriall
duties from i Timothy 4. i, and therafter
[Privy censure passed upon all the brethren present.]
At Alfoord Januarii 5, 1681.
The exercise was superseded, in respect the day was short, and very
far spent befor the brethren con veined.
[Collections for prisoners to the Turks, bridge of Inverness.]
In obedience to the ordinance of the late Synod, and a letter from
our Ordinarie, the brethren did nominat the moderator and the minister
of Kenncthmont to attend the publick Act and tryals of Mr. James
Gordon, minister at Cairnbie, his admission to the profession of Divinitie
at Old Aberdeine, upon the first Wednesday of Februar next.
Concerning Mr. James Gordon in Soccoh, the moderator reported
that he had pronounced the sentence of lesser excommunication against
him.
The minister of Cabrach reported that Mr. James Gordon had joyned
in ane irregular marriage William Milne in Cabrach, and (blank} Gordon
in Gartlie, moreover that he had privately confessed to him fornication
with (blank} Sivewright, his domestic servant. It is therfor appointed that
the minister prohibit her to remaine any longer in his house or service,
and that he cause cite the said Mr. James to the next meeting pro i°.
l68l] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORI). 321
At Alfoord Januar 26, (1681).
The minister of Kennethmont exercised &c
The minister of Cabrach reported that Mr. James Gordon was cited
to this meeting, who being called, and not compeiring, it is appointed he
be cited pro 2°.
At Alfoord Februar 23rd, (1681).
There was no exercise in respect the minister of Cabrach was not able
to travell for the storme.
Mr. John Robertson, Student of Divinitie, presented a letter from our
Ordinarie, recommending the said Mr. John to tryals, in order to his
admission to the kirk of Strathdone. In obedience to the letter, they
prescribed to him the tryall of the Languages, according to the
regulation.
Concerning Mr. James Gordon, he (the minister of Cabrach) reported,
that upon the foresaid account, (the storminess of the weather) a citation
could not be fixed upon him. The former ordinance is renewed.
The brethren of the Presbytrie taking to consideration the desolation
of Strathdone, and that Mr. John Robertson, who was presented to that
place, had his residence in that place, they ordained him to supplie the
vacancie of the said church.
The manse of Auchendore being legallie appretiat, the minister
desired that the appretiation might be insert in this register. The desire
was granted, and the tennor of the said appretiation is as followes : —
At Auchendore the fourth day of March 1680.
The said day, by vertue of a commission given by the Right Reverend
Father in God, Patrick, Bishop of Aberdein, of the date at Aberdein, the
fourth day of Februar 1680 yeirs, for the apprysing of the manse and
bigging belonging to Mr. William Thomson, present minister at
Auchendore ; conveined Mr. Thomas Garden, minister at Clat, Mr.
William Burnet, minister at Kildrummie, Mr. Alexander Mowat, minister
at Lesley, and Mr. James Irvine, minister at Cabrach, with William
Gordon and Alexander Ross, masons, James Smith and James Thomson,
SS
322 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [l68l
wrights, James Smith and George Duncan, smithes, Arthur Lumsden
and John Young, skilled in building of earthen houses, and all these men
of approven skill and honesty, and finding anc edict lawfullie execut and
indorsed, did pass to the gate of the foresaid manse, and caused James
Morgan, their officer for the tyme, call all heritors, lifcrcntcrs, wodsetters,
and others, having or pretending interest within the parish of Auchendore,
to compeir, and hear, and see the said manse and bigging legallie
apprysed, that the said Mr. William Thomson might receive satisfaction
for the same according to law. Whcrupon, compcired William Lord
Forbes, Francis Gordon, younger of Craig of Auchendore, Robert Reid
of Newmilne, and consented to the apprysing of the foresaid manse and
bigging. And thereafter, the foresaid commissioners having taken a
judiciall declaration of the above writn workmen, concerning their
diligence and fidelity, did admit them to the apprysing of the foresaid
manse, houses, bigging, yeard dykes, and others belonging therto, who,
after mature deliberation, and due and valuable consideration of all the
houses and bigging, stone, and earthen wals, with door and windows
conforme, couples, and roofe, agreeable to the said wals, timber, lofts,
cellars, stairs, and others belonging therto, did find that the whole work
and value of the said houses and bigging above named, did amount to
the soume of seven hundreth and fourteine marks, six shillings, and eight
pennies ; the number and species of the houses and bigging of the said
manse being as followcs : anc half of stane wals the height of the door
and window, to ane hewen door, and windows, glassed, cased, and stein-
choned conforme, with a timber cellar, and a loft above it; ane inner
chamber with a back and bosome chimney ; ane hewen window, glassed,
cased, and steinshoned, door and door cheeks of timber, with lock and
bands, clivyded from the hall with a stone wall from the floor to the
roofe, a kitchin in the other end ; to two hewen windowes cased and
steinshoned, with door and door checks of timber, divycled likewise from
the hall by a partition half of stone, half of earth ; ane utter chamber
with hewen door and windowes, glassed and cased, with timber portall ;
to a studye in the end of it, having two windowes hewen, glassed and
cased, with a loft above the said studye, both divydcd from the chamber
by a partition of timber ; to a timber stair and two fixed beds joyncd to
the said wall ; a stable of two couples, with locks and bands, and come
bannc of two couples to fore and back doors, with lock and bands ; ane
l68l] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD.
6-5
kilnbarne on the end therof, of one timber couple and a stone couple,
with a kiln, two doors, lock, and bands conforme ; ane brewing- house,
with a timber door, lock, and bands ; to a forgate, hcwen cheeks ; to
a timber wicket, iron bands, bolts, and knock with ane back gate,
and yeard gate, door, and door cheeks of timber ; ane byre and pete-
house, all the forsaid with timbere, divveted and thatched, as is usual 1
and neidfull, together with the keil and corne yeard, dikes, calsies within
and without the close ; all which in cumulo (the growing timber of the
yeard being excepted out of the said apprysing, and so of right being
proprietie to the present minister of Auchendore) extend in worth and
value to the foresaid soume of seven hunclreth and fourtein merks, six
shillings, and eight pennies Scots money. In testification wherof the
premisses, writn by Mr. William Garioch, minister at Forbes, are sub
scribed with the hands of the foresaid commissioners at Auchendore, the
fifth day of March 1680 yeirs.
Sic subscribitur Thomas Garden
Ja: Irvine
Mr. Wm. Burnet
Mr. Al: Mo watt.
Wee, Patrick, by the mercie of God, Bishop of Aberdein, having seen
and considered the above writn account of the diligence of the brethren
commissionat by us, for visiting the manse of the parish Kirk of Auchen
dore, and whole buildings therto belonging, do find the brethren foresaid
have proceided orderly, according to our commission, wherfor wee doe
ratifie and approve the samyn. Given under our hand at Old Aberdeen,
the fifteinth day of October 1680 yeirs.
Sic subscribitur Pat: Bp: of Aberdein.
At Alford March 23, 1681.
The minister of Cabrach had a discourse De primatu Petri.
Margarat Thomson appeared in sackcloath, and humblie craved par
don for her insolent deportment befor the brethren, and upon her confes
sion was appointed to satisfie the discipline, &c.
324 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [l68l
(She had " compeired bcfor the Presbytrie, and behaved hersclfe in
solently to the minister of Towie.")
Mr. James Gordon in Soccoh, he (the minister of Cabrach) reported
that he was removed out of the parish toward the South. It is appointed
that he make cnquyric for him against the next meeting.
The minister of Kildrummie presented a Session process, by which it
was found that Margarat Dason was convict of the profanation of the
Lord's day by dancing, and contumacious to the discipline thereupon.
The brethren thought fitt that a process should be commenced against
her, and that she should be cited to the next meeting pro i°.
Mr. John Robertson sustained the tryall of the Languages, according
to the regulation, and was approven therein.
The brethercn considered that Mr. William Gordon, late bursar of
Divinitie, had demitted his title to the foresaid burse, and no person to
their knowledge nominated by the Presbytrie of Turreffe, to whom the
right of presentation belongs for this vice, they desired it to be determined
by the Lord Bishop and Synod how to dispose of the burse money for
this yeir.
Concerning the Centesima, the most of the brctheren declared they
had payed it in the slump, and that such as had not were resolved to
continue to pay it by moyeties.
Concerning the collections recommended by the Privie Councill.
In obedience to ane ordinance of the last Synod, it was recommended
to the brethren who were first visited, to have their Session books in
readines to present them to their bretheren to be visited by them.
Wil. Garioch, Clerk to the Presbytrie of Alfoord.
At Old Aberdeen Apryle 20, 1681.
This Presbytrie book of Alfoord, and bretheren of the said Presbytrie
were approven by the Bishop and Synod of Abdn:.
Mr. Th: Crevey, Clk to the Synod.
At Alfoord Aprilis 13, 1681.
The minister of Cabrach reported that William Milne there was, con-
trarie to the laws of the Church, married by Mr. James Gordon to a
l68l] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 325
woman in the parish of Gartlie. It is appointed the forcsaid persons be
cited to the next meeting pro i°. He reported likewise that the said Mr.
James Gordon had celebrat the disordcrlie marriage aforesaid in his
journey towards Ireland, and that there was little hopes of his return to
this countrey.
Referres of the Synod of Abel: holden in Apryle 1681.
At Old Aberdein Aprilis 20.
The Presbytrie book of Alfoord, and bretheren of the Presbytrie are
approven.
Anent James Coulie, in the parish of Keig, under sentence of the
lesser excommunication, and contumacious to the discipline, it is appoin
ted that he get one publick admonition and three publick prayers, in
order to the pronouncing the greater sentence against him, and the pro
cess being thus closed, it is to be sent in to the Bishop, for receiving order
to pronounce the said sentence, and that the same method be followed to
Janet Anton in Clat, providing always that there be some new evidence
of scandall made out against her, and that this be intimat unto her.
The Bishop and Synod taking to their consideration, the matter
anent the scandalous report which hath been spread through the coun
trey, of prophane carriage in the laird of Glenbucket's house at Christ-
mass, did appoint, for clearing that affaire, that there be a visitation kept
at the Kirk of Glenbucket upon the third Wednesday of May next, and
that, together to the Presbytrie of Alfoord, the brethren after named do
meet viz. : Mr. Robert Reid, moderator of the Presbytrie of Kincardin,
Mr. John Keith at Birse, Mr. John Forbes at Coldstone, Mr. James
Strachane, moderator of the Presbytrie of Gareoch, Mr. John Burnet at
Monimusk, Mr. Alexander Mowat at Leslie, and Mr. Arthur Strachan at
Mortlich, and for this end, a commission is to be granted to the said
bretheren, and precepts are to be issued forth by the Bishop for citing
both parties and witnesses against that dyet, and they are to give in
report of their diligence with the first occasion.
It is appointed by the Bishop and Synod that all expectants shall
exercise per vices, befor their respective Presbytries, which if anie of
them shall decline, or refuse to do when requyred thereunto, it is appoin
ted that, if they have received licence for preaching from the Bishop of
326 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [l68l
this Diocess, that their licence be called back from them, and they inhibit
to preach within the Diocess ; if they be such as have to be licensed by
the Primat, it is ordained that, if thereafter they shall be presented to a
church within this Diocess, befor ever they be recommended for tryall in
order to the ministric, they be appointed to exercise befor that Presbytrie
where formerlie they declined the exercise, and that either once or twice,
as the Presbytrie shall think fit.
It is appointed that, when anie delinquents are referred by a Session
to a Presbytrie, in order to absolution, the minister give ane account to
the Presbytrie of the severall dyets of their publick appearances befor the
congregation, and that single adulterers appeare in publick for the space
of halfe a year professing repentance, befor they be absolved, and that
relapsers in adulterie do appeare for the space of a whole year, and if a
Presbytrie shall find just cause at anie tyme for abridgeing the dyets of
their appearances, yet that no adulterers shall be absolved under a quar
ter of a year's publick appearances at least.
(Here follow regulations as to other cases of discipline.)
It is appointed that the Collector of the Centesima give up a list of the
names of such ministers within this Diocess, as have not as yet sub
scribed the bond for the said annuitie, that their names may be sent out
with the referres of the Synod, that their respective Presbytries may
require them to subscribe the bond and pay accordinglie ; as also, it is
appointed that legall diligence be used by the Collector against those
who have subscribed the bond, and have not payed conforme.
Indigent persons recommended to the charitable supplie of the
severall congregations of this Diocess, are Margaret Forbes, ane old
distressed woman, diseased of the cancer, Mr. Alexander Lynd, some-
tyme Schoolmaster at Methlick, now paralytick, William Davy in the
Presbytrie of Fordyce, paralytick.
It is appointed that no absents from the Synod be at any tyme
excused, except they pay their publick cleues to the Clerk and janitor,
and the supplie for Mr. John Irvine.
(Here list of fugitives from Church discipline.)
Names of such as have not subscribed the bond for the Centesima,
Mr. William Garioch at Forbes, Mr. James Irvine at Cabrach.
At Old Aberdein Aprilis 20.
[Next meeting of Presbytery.]
l68l] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORI). 327
At Glenbucket May 18 (1681).
The minister of Keig preached upon Ecclesiastes 11.9. After sermon,
the bretheren conveined with Mr. John Keith, minister at Birse, Mr. John
Forbes at Coldston, Mr. Alexander Mowat at Leslie, inquired into a
scandall supposed to be committed in the laird of Glenbucket his house,
upon the 25 and 27 of December, and appointed ane account of that
tryall to be sent in to their Ordinarie, with the first conveniencie.
At Alfoorcl June I (1681).
Mr. John Robertson delivered his Exegesis, De operum bonorum
meritis, &c
[The feast of His Majestie's Nativitie, and Restauration May 29,
observed.]
The moderator reported that Janet Anton, whilst she was petitioning
to be admitted to the profession of repentance, was convict of cursing her
neighbour with a dreadful imprecation, upon the Lord's day, that she
gave no signes nor evidences of true repentance, speaking to the minister
disdainfullie, or none at all. Wherupon it is appointed a process be
commenced against her, in order to the sentence of the greater excom
munication.
Mr. William Johnston presented a letter from our Ordinarie, appoint
ing him a questionarie tryall and popular sermon, in order to a licence
for publicklie preaching, the foresaid Mr. William producing testimonies
from the Professor of Divinitie. It is appointed he sustaine a question
arie tryall the next day, and the 1 1 and 1 2 Centuries are prescribed to
him.
At Alfoord June 15 (1681).
Mr. John Robertson exercised on I Corinthians i. 23, and in respect
Mr. William Johnston was sick, and not able to travell, he sustained dis
pute upon the theses formerlie distribut, and was approven. Moreover
the said Mr. John did intreat the bretheren of the meeting, that, in respect
he had preached in most of the pulpits, his popular sermon might be
superseded, which being granted, the bretheren did reflect upon the
steps of his tryals, in all which he was approven by the pluralitie of them
328 RECORDS OV THE MEETING [l68l
that were present, and by them recommended to the Lord Bishop for
ordination.
At Alfoord Julie 13, (1681).
There was no exercise.
The moderator enquyred whether the bretheren present had receaved
and publicklie read the Council's proclamation, enjoyning the observance
of a religious fast for averting the wrath of God threatned against their
land, and for obtaining his blessing upon the ensueing parliament, and all
that were present declared they had tymouslie receaved and publicklie
read the foresaicl proclamation, and, in obedience thereto, had religiouslie
observed the foresaid fast.
At Alfoord August 10, (1681).
The minister of Auchendore had a discourse concerning ministeriall
duties &c
[Privie censure passed upon the bretheren present.]
Mr. John Robertson desired it might be recorded that he was institut
minister at Strathdone, Julii 24. It is recommended to the said Mr. John
to call for the Session book of Strathdone, and to bring ane account of
the referres to the next meeting.
Mr. William Johnston sustained the qucstionaric tryall, and the tryall
of the Languages, &c.
At Alfoord August 24, (1681).
Mr. William Johnston preached on i Peter i. 17, and being approven
in this and the other tryall, is recommended to the Lord Bishop, to
obtaine a licence in order to publick preaching.
At Alfoord September 21, (1681).
The minister of Glenbucket exercised, &c.
1682] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 329
[Communion had been observed.]
Most of the bretheren had payed the bursar.
The ministers who had not signed the bond of mortifications for
ministers' widows, promised to pay in their Centcsiuia at the ensuing
Synod.
Mr. Andrew Abcrcrombie, late minister of Strathdone, presented a
bond of ane hundreth pound, mortified for the use of the poor of the
parish of Strathdone by Arthur Forbes of Glencarvie, which bond was
delivered to Mr. John Robertson, present minister at Strathdone, to
whom it was recommend to secure the forcsaid mortification, as he would
be answerable to his superiors.
(Here is given list of fugitives from discipline.)
It was found, upon enquirie, that the names of all the fugitives con
tained in the referres of the Synod, are publicklie intimat from all the
pulpits within this Presbytrie.
[The indigent persons supplied.]
Wil: Garioch, Clerk to the Presbytric of Alfoord.
At Old Aberdeine, October 12, 1681.
The bretheren of the Presbytrie mctt, and finding that Mr. William
Johnston, who was formerlie appointed to distribute his theses De Ttsibi-
litate Ecclesiac at this meeting, was not present, thought fit to alter the
tryall formerlie prescribed, and to appoint him to have anc Exercise and
Addition on I Corinthians I. 25, at the next meeting of the Presbytrie at
Alfoord.
At Alfoord November 16, (1681).
Mr. William Johnston had anc Exercise and Addition, &c
By reason of the stormines and other important considerations, there
was no discipline, save the case of a woman who appeared in sackcloath
supplicating absolution, and who was referred to the minister and Session
of Tullincssell for that effect.
At Alfoord Martii 8, 1682.
Mr. William Johnston not being as yet cleared of his scruples anent
TT
33O RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1682
the Test, was not present, but Mr. Alexander Broune presented by the
Earle of Marr to the Church of Cabrach, being recommended by our late
Ordinarie for passing the tryall of a popular sermon befor the Presbytric
(which recommendation was directed to the Moderator, and he therin
appointed to prescribe him a text for the said tryall) had a popular ser
mon on Isaiah 26. 3, and was approven ; and the said Mr. Alexander
having formerlie sustained the other points of the tryall befor the Lord
Bishop and brethercn of the Presbytrie of Aberdein, was recommended
to the Lord Primate.
No account of the referres of Keig, Clat, Lochell, in respect of the
vacancie of these places.
There were onlie present, &c
[In regard of the storminess of the day, few present]
At Alfoord March 29, (1682).
Mr. John Patton, Professor of Philosophic, and preacher of the gospell,
being recommended by the Lord Primate, for passing the tryall of a
popular sermon befor the Presbytrie, in order to his entrie to the exercise
of the ministrie at the Church of Leochell (which recommendation came
into the moderator's hands shortlie after the last meeting of the Presby
trie, he had prescribed a text to the said Mr. John Patton for his tryall,
to be receaved this day, in regard there was no exercise formerlie appoin
ted) had a popular sermon on Ephesians 4. 30, and was approven, and by
order from the Lord Primate, was recommended to His Grace for ordina
tion.
At Alfoord Aprilc 26, (1682).
There was no exercise.
[Supply for the vacancy of Keig.]
At Alfoord May 24, (1682).
The moderator presented a letter, directed to him from Mr. George
1 682] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFOR1). 33!
Midleton, Sub-principall of the King's Collcdge, bearing that he had
spoken to our elect Bishop, anent Mr. William Johnston his proceeding
in tryals, in order to his entering the office of the ministerie at the church
of Kearne, and that it was his opinion, and desire, that the Presbyterie
should cause him proceed in his tryals, notwithstanding he had not as
yet obeyed the law in taking the Test. Wherupon the said Mr. William
being present, and desiring that he might deliver his Exegesis De visi-
bilitate Ecclesiae, which was formerlie appointed, and sustaine dispute
thereupon this day, having formerlie distribute his theses, the brethren,
taking to consideration the long vacancie of the Church of Kearne,
granted his desire, in both which tryals, and others heretofore submitted
by him, he was approver), and appointed to have a recommendation to
the elect Bishop for ordination.
[Supplies for vacancy at Keig.]
At Alfoord June 21, (1682).
The minister of Tough had ane Exercise and Addition &c.
[Supply for the vacancy of Keig.]
The ministers of Clat and Cabrach reported that they had received
institution to their respective churches, upon the 30'" day of Apryll last.
[The 29th of May observed.]
At Alfoord Julie 19, (1682).
There was no exercise, in respect the minister of Alfoord reported,
that he was under advertisement to assist his brother in giving the holy
communion, and therefore could not be in readines to have the exercise
at this dyet.
[Supply for the vacancie of Keig.]
At Alfoord August 16, (1682).
The minister of Alfoord had ane Exercise and Addition &c.
[Supply for Keig vacancy.]
332 KKCOKDS OF TIIK MKKT1NO [l682
At Alfoord September 13, (1682).
There was no exercise, in respect the speaker came not tymouslie,
through indisposition of body.
The minister of Glut reported that he \vas informed by the elders of
the Session, that the late minister had absolved Janet Anton, being in
extremis as was supposed, but now she being recovered had offered satis
faction to their discipline, and was delayed for a tyme, because of the
many new emergent delinquencies in that place.
Ancnt Anna Thomson in Forbes, the minister reported that she had
several! tymes offered her oath, but he was loath to tender ane oath unto
her, in regard she was scarce compos mentis. The Presbytrie considering
his declaration thought fit in that caice to dispense with it, and gave
order for her absolution.
[Supply for Keig vacancy. At next meeting the privie censure.]
At Alfoord September 27 (1682).
The minister of Cushnie had a discourse concerning ministerial!
duties, &c
[Privio censure p-.issed upon the brethercn.]
At Old Abd: October 11 (1682).
The bretheren met i:i King's Golledge Church, and the moderator
reported that the Lord Bishop had recommended to them Mr. Andrew
Livingston, preacher of the gospcll, and Chaplaine to the Karle of Kintor,
in whose favours he had received a presentation to the Church of Keig,
from the Lord Bishop of Dumblane, undoubted patron thereof, for pass
ing his tryals, in order to his entry to the charge of the ministery thereat.
Wherfor the bretheren did appoint that the said Mr. Andrew should
sustaine the tryall of the Languages at the next meeting, which is
appointed to be at Alfoord November I.
Refcrres of the Provincial! Synod of Abd: holden at the King's
Colledge Church, by ane Right Reverend Father in God, George, Lord
Bishop of Abd:, and begun upon the tenth day of October 1682.
I0o2j OE THE EXERCISE OE ALEORI).
Sessio prima ante meridiem.
After sermon had in the Cathedral Church by the Lord Bishop, &c.
the Lord Bishop does hereby recommend to all the
bretheren of this Diocess, to be carefull in observing the dyets of the
Synods punctallie in all tyme coming, as they will be answerable. There
after bretheren were appointed for the privic censure, and for visiting the
Presbytrie books.
Sess: 2'. post meridiem.
The Lord Bishop did represent that he having received from Mr.
George Meldrum, Collector of the Centesima, his accompts of his intro
missions with the said annuitie, both Discharge and Charge, it had been
recommended to some bretheren of the conference to examine the said
accompts, and give in their report at this Session of the Synod. Wher-
upon the brethren did represent, that they, having accordinglic visited
the said accompts, had found that there had been a mistake in casting
up the accompts of the said Centesima in Apryle 81, and that the said
Collector had been thereby burthened with about 40 pounds more than
he had reallie received ; as also they reported that the whole summ of
what had been collected by the said Mr. George, since the first enacting
of the Centesima, is two thousand, two hundreth, nintie and nyne pounds,
and thrcttein shillings Scots, and that the discharge of the foresaid
summ, conforme to the particulars contained in his accompts, is two
thousand, two hundreth, and eightie pounds, twelve shillings, and eight
pennies Scots money, so that there remains in his hands as yet nynteen
pounds, four pennies Scots, and it being found that the said Collector
had caused transcribe from his accompts a just accompt of what everie
minister in their respective Presbytries have payd of the said annuitie,
together with a note of such as have cither not subscribed the bond, or
not payed anie thing of the said Centesima, and delivered the list to the
severall moderators, it was enquyred if there were anie of the bretheren
of the Synod, who did question anie of the particulars of the said
accompts. Wherupon the whole bretheren of the Synod did heartilie
approve of the said accompts. And by reason that Mr. George Meldrum
Collector foresaid doth earnestly desire to be exonerated of that burthen,
and that another Collector may be established by the Lord Bishop and
334 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1682
Synod, and that he may be discharged of hi.s whole intromissions with
the said annuitic, thcrfor the Lord Bishop and Synod, with unanimous
consent, did nominat and choice Mr. George Inncs, parson of Bclhelvie,
to be Collector of the said annuitie in tymc corning, and did recom
mend to the said Mr. George to receive from Mr. George Mcldrum the
whole bonds, and other papers of the said Centcsiina ; as also the Lord
Bishop and Synod do appoint that there be a discharge drawn up, in as
ample forme as shall be neidfull, by the advice of men of law, for exon
erating the said Mr. George Meldrum of his whole intromissions with
the said annuitie.
It is appointed by the Lord Bishop and Synod, that such bretheren
as have not yet subscribed the bond for the Centesima, doe subscribe the
same befor the dissolving of this Synod, whether they be such as have
latelie entered to the ministrie, or any others.
It being represented that there are some ministers, who, having payed
in seven years together of the said annuitie, have since that tyme removed
from their charges, by reason of their not taking the Test, the Lord
Bishop did ordaine, that the Collector shall refound to them whatever is
over and above the yeirlie annuitie of their stipends, during the tyme they
did enjoy their places. And seeing there are others who, although they
subscribed the bond for the Centesima^ yet, in their lifetyme payed nothing
thereof, and are now deceast being in bonts, leaving neither widow nor
children behind them, therfor the Lord Bishop and Synod did ordaine
that the Collector should requyre the said annuitie from their executors.
It is recommended to the bretheren of the Synod, that they pay
Mr. John Irvine his contribution condescended unto by former Acts of
Synod ; as also it is represented to the severall Presbytries to be carefull
in paying their bursars of Divinitie tymouslie.
It is appointed that, in tyme coming, there be sermon upon the
second day of each Synod, and for this end, that one be nominat by the
Lord Bishop, out of the respective Presbytries per vices, for preaching at
the foresaid dyet, and Mr. John Menzies, Professor of Divinitie, is nomi
nat by the Lord Bishop, to preach upon the second day of the next
Synod in Apryle.
Sess : 3°. Ante meridiem, Octobris u.
It being represented to the Lord Bishop and Synod, how much the
1682] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 335
Lord's day is prophaned by salmond fishing, carrying of loads, travelling
to mercats, feying of servants, making of other bargaines and civill con
tracts, and many such other abuses, and being deeplie sensible of the
dishonour done to God thereby, the contempt of religion, the great scan-
dall given to others ; and finding that there have been many laudable
Acts of Parliament made for restraining these abuses, particularly the
19 Act of the first Session of the 2". Parl: of K. Charles the 2tl., inhibiting
all salmond fishing, going of salt pans, milnes or kils, all hyring of ser
vants, carrying of loads, keeping of mercats, or using anie sort of
merchandise on the said day, and all other prophanation thereof what
soever, under the penaltie and pecuniall mulcts contained in the said
Act; and seeing by the 22d. Act of the third Session of the 3". Parl: of
our gracious sovereigne, power is given to all the Sherriffs, commission
ers, or anie other judges specified in the said Act, who reside in anie
parish, and in parishes where none of these reside, to a person nominat
by the minister, Kirk-Session, and the major part of the heritors, con-
veined by publick intimation from the minister, the said person being
presented to the Sherriff, commissar, or anie other judge specified in the
said Act, and deputed by them for that effect, to conveine the trans
gressors of the foresaid Statute, and to judge in them according to law,
and this besides the exercise of church discipline, according to the lawes
and practise used in this church; and finding that there have been
severall Acts of Synod alreadie made, cnjoyning the censures of the
church to be severly execute against the profaners of the Lord's day, it
is therfor recommended to the severall bretheren within this Diocess, not
onlie that they testifie against those abuses, and seriouslie dehort the
people from them in their publick sermons and private dealings with
them, but that also they be strict in executing the censures of the church
against such offenders, and that they seek the concurrence of the Civill
power to restraine them as the laws of the land do allow, and that pub-
lick intimation of this be made to the people of the respective parish
Churches, and report made at the next Synod.
It being represented to the Lord Bishop and Synod that, notwith
standing the severall Acts of Synod formerlie made, appointing the mini
ster of each parish to cause give up to the commissar, or his procurator
fiscall, ane exact list of the cleccast persons within their congregations,
yet manic are wanting herein, therfor the former Acts of the Synod made
336 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1682
theranent are hereby renewed, and it is recommended to the severall
ministers, to cause the Clerks of their Sessions draw up a list of their
defunct each half ycir, with their conditions and qualities, to be exhibited,
that he may accordinglie know how to proceed against their executors.
The Lord Bishop doth hereby continue the moderators of the respec
tive Prcsbytrie:-. as they are at this Synod, viz. for Alfoord Mr. William
Thomson at Auchendore, and in his absence Mr. Andrew J affray at
Alfoord.
The bretheren of the Presbytrie of Alfoord being removed, in order
to privie censure, had a good testimonic, and was approvcn.
[Collection for building the harbour at Rosehartie. Contributions
appointed by Act of Secret Councill, for building the bridge of Inverness,
for reliefe of the Inverness prisoners taken by the Turks, and for repairing
the harbours of Peterhead, and Stonehyve, and Portsoy. Contribution
to Mr. Al. Lind, somctymc Schoolmaster at Methlick.]
Since the dissolving of the Synod, the Lord Bishop thought fit hereby
to recommend unto all the brethren of this Diocess, to be observant in
saying the Lord's prayer, and singing the doxologic at the publick
worship in their respective congregations, as also that they be carcfull
when anie parents or others present children to baptisme, to cause them
make a solemne profession of their faith ; as likewise that all be observant
of the 29 of May, as the same is appointed to be kept by authority ; in
like manner that all be carefull in observing the order and practise of the
Church anent marriages, viz. that no persons be married without licence
from the Bishop, except they be three severall Lord's dayes publicklie
proclaimed befor the congregation, and that none be proclaimed thrice in
one day, and that no minister take upon them to dispense with the
publick appearance of delinquents for evidencing their repentance, by
making a commutation for a sum of money, or anie other way, and that
no minister indict anie publick Fasts in their respective congregations,
except such as are alreadic appointed by the Church, and that accounts
be given in the respective Presbytrie books at the privie censure if all the
bretheren do observe these things above recommended.
[List of fugitives from discipline.]
At Alfoord October I, 1682.
Mr. Andrew Livingston sustained the tryall of the Languages, &c. . . .
l682] OF THE EXERCISE OE ALFORD. 337
[Supply for Keig vacancy.]
The minister of Kcnncthmont being present, was cnquyrecl by the
moderator the reason of his long absence from the Presbytrie, answered,
that for the most part of the tyme he had been absent, he was scarce able'
to preach to the people, let be to travcll to the Presbytrie, being visited
by sicknes, therfor he is excused, but exhorted to attend the meetings of
the Presbytrie better hereafter, which he promised to doe.
At Alfoord November 29, (1682).
Mr. Andrew Livingston sustained the questionaric tryall, &c.
[Supply for Keig vacancy.]
At Alfoord December 20, (1682).
Mr. Andrew Livingston handled the head De universali redemptions
&c
The next meeting is appointed to be this day moneth, and in regard
the moderator had received a line from the Lord Bishop, desiring that
the tryals of the said Mr. Livingston may be expedc with all conveniencic,
therfor he is appointed to have anc Exercise and Addition on i Cor
inthians i. 29, and also to sustaine a dispute upon his theses de dicto
subjecto.
[Case of " horrid imprecations and cursing."]
The moderator reported that he had received the rcfcrrcs of the late
Synod, from the Clerk therof, which were recommended
to all ^for observance, and particular-lie these [Anent " the annuitie of
the ministers stipends, collections for pious uses, and indigent persons,
the payment of the bursar, and Mr. John Irvine his contribution."]
The bretheren finding great necessity for intimating the late Act of
the Synod, made against the prophanation of the Lord's day, thought fit
that the samync should be publicklie intimat to the people of the
respective parish churches within this Exercise, and after intimation,
seriouslie and gravelie recommended to them for observance, on Lord's
day come eight, dayes, and the ministers now absent to be acquainted by
UU
338 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1683
a line from the moderator of this ordinance, and report thcrof to be given
in at the next meeting.
[Supply for the vacancie of Kcig.
At Alfoord Januarii 17, 1683.
Mr. Andrew Livingston had ane Exercise and Addition, also sustained
dispute De universal: rcdcinptionc &c. ......
The moderator enquyred of the respective bretheren, if
[Act of Synod on prophanation of the Lord's day, was intimated.]
At Alfoord Februarii 14, 1683.
Mr. Andrew Livingston delivered a popular sermon from John 5. 40,
and was approven in this, and all the former tryals, and appointed to
have a recommendation to our Ordinarie, the Lord Bishop of Aberdeen
for ordination.
[Supply for vacancie of Kcig.]
At Alfoord Martii 7, (1683).
The minister of Strathdone exercised, &c.
At Alfoord March 28, (1683).
The minister of Kinnethmount had a discourse concerning pastorall
duties, &c.
[Privy censure passed.]
The moderator enquyred of the respective bretheren if they had
observed the referres of the late Synod, and particularlic those recom
mended to the bretheren by the Lord Bishop, after the dissolving of the
Synod ; and, after cnquyrie, it is found they have observed them, and
promised hereafter duelie to observe them.
1683] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 339
[The scvcrall brethren were again reminded of the Collections, Centc-
si>na> and Mr. John Irving.]
[List of fugitives from discipline.]
Wil: Garioch, Clerk to the Presbytrie.
At the King's Colledge Kirk, Apryle 18, 1683.
The Presbytrie book of Alfoord, and bretheren approver).
Mr. Th: Crevey, Clerk to the Synod.
At Old Abd: Apryle 18, 1683.
The bretheren did conveine, &c.
Referres of the Dioccsian Synod of Abd: holden by the Reverend
Father in God, George, Lord Bishop of Abd:, and begune at the King's
Colledge Kirk, the scvcntenth of Aprill 1683.
Aprill Sess: prima. Ante meridiem.
After the sermon had by the Lord Bishop in the Cathedrall Church,
Sess: 2°. post meridiem.
After prayer, the catalogue being cited, and absents noted, the Lord
Bishop and Synod thought fitt to recommend to the present Collector of
the Centesima to gather in such moneys therto belonging as are lent out
in small parcells, that they may be lent furth unto others in greater
soumes, upon sufficient securitie, and for that effect it is appointed that
upon advertisement from the Collector, the moderators of the severall
Presbytries, together with the Professores of Divinitie, and ministers of
New and Old Abd: shall meet at Abd:, to consult ancnt the lending
furth and secureing of the moneys foresaid, with power to them to adjurn
their meetings as they shall think expedient, and anie three of them, with
340 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1683
the Collector, is hereby declared to be a quorum, and it is appointed that
such of the bretheren as have not yet subscrybed the bond for the Ccnte-
sinia shall doe it once befor the ryseing of this Synod.
It being found by the Lord Bishop and Synod that, in obedience to
an Act of the former Synod, in October last, the respective Presbytries
had berime to process the seditious and disorderlie preachers, and
keepers of Conventicles within their bounds, but the process was not
cariecl on to any considerable length against them, it was therfor appoin
ted that the several! Presbytries, in whose bounds any of these preachers
doc reside, shall go on in the process against them, and that, with all dili
gence, as they shall be answerable.
The Lord Bishop did represent that he had given in a petition to the
lords of His Majestie's Privie Counsell, for demolishing the Schoole and
meeting hous, which the quakers had built in the parish of Kinkell,
and for reformeing their insolencies in severall other places within this
Diocess, and that the Counsell had referred the matter to be examined
by the provost of Abd:, and Shireff of the Shyre, and had promised there
after to give order for restraining these abuses ; but that it were fitt in
lyke manner that the Church should doe what is incumbent to them,
in provideing against such disorderlie persones with ecclesiasticall cen
sures ; and therfor it is appointed by the Lord Bishop and Synod, that
the respective Presbytries within this Diocess shall furthwith begin, and
carie on a process of excommunication, against the most remarkable and
turbulent of the quakers in their bounds, and this without any respect of
the persones, whatever may be their qualities or conditiones.
It is recommended to the severall Presbytries to cause record in their
books, that their meetings are constitute by prayer, as also that at their
first meetings after each Synod, it be insert in their books who is modera
tor, and who is clerk of the Presbytrie.
The Lord Bishop and Synod considering that there have been many
laudable Acts of the Synod made for regulateing the discipline within this
Diocess, which, notwithstanding, are cither altogether unknowne to some,
or little observed by others, and therfor that it was fit that the said Acts
were revised, and drawne up in one boundle together, and copies therof
transmitcd to the severall Presbytries, for being a rule of their discipline
in tyme comeing, did therfor appoint that the moderators of the respective
Presbytries, together with the Professors of Divinitie, and ministers of
1683] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFOKD. 34!
New and Old Abel., Banchric Devcnick, and Turrcff, shall meet with the
Clerk of the Synod, upon the second Tuesday of June next, for reviseing
the wholl Acts of this Synod since the resolution of the government,
which are of severall concernment, and for considering what they find
neidfull to be altered in these Acts, or added therunto, with power to the
forsaid bretheren to adjurn their meetings, and to constitute a quorum as
they shall think ntt, and to make report of the diligence at the Synod.
It is appointed that the severall moderators receave from their
respective bretheren a just list of the haill papists, quakers, and other
disorderly persons within their bounds, and cause the Clerk of the
Prcsbytrie subscribe the same, and therafter transmitt it to the Lord
Bishop and Synod.
The Lord Bishop and Synod considering that there are severall
bretheren within the Diocess, who are frequently absent from the meet
ings of the Synod, pretending infirmitie and age as their excuse, who,
notwithstanding, doe usualie travcll throw the countrey at other tymes
about their affaires &c., thcrfor ordaine that each minister, who shall, in
tyme comeing, be found absent from the Synod without a relevant excuse
sustained by the Lord Bishop and Synod, shall pay ten merks for his
absence toties quoties, to be improved for pious uses as the Bishop and
Synod shall think fitt ; and this besydes ecclesiasticall censures to be
inflicted on them, and no excuse is to be admitted from any of the
absents, unless they pay in their publick deues. And it is moreover ap
pointed that the bretheren after named shall be cited to the next Synod
in October literally, with certiiicatione of severe censure if they compeir
not, viz. Mr. John Ferries at Tulloch, Mr. Alexander Ewan at Pitsligo,
Mr. John Jamieson at Fyvie.
April 1 8. Sess : 3°. Ante meridiem.
After prayer had in the Cathedrall Church by Mr. John Menzies,
Professor of Divinitie, the bretheren of the Synod did meet, and after
prayer, the Catalogue was cited, and absents noted.
Compeired befor the Lord Bishop and Synod Mr. Alexander Robert
son, toun Clerk of Abd., and -Walter Gorclone, merchand there, as being
commissionat by the Town Counsell of the said burgh, and did represent
that the Lords of His Majestie's Trivie Counsell had been pleased to
342 KKCOUDS OF TIIK MKKTINC [1683
grant a warrant and order for a voluntaric contribution to be gathered
throughout all this kingdome, for rcpaireing of the harbour and bulwark
of Abd., and therfor did supplicat that the Lord Bishop and Synod
would recommend the foresaid contributione to the sevcrall ministers
within this Dioccss, to make intimatione of the said contributione to
their respective congregationcs, and for that effect it is appointed that
printed copies of the said Act of Secret Counsell be delivered to the
moderators of the Presbytrics, to be by them distributed among their
bretheren.
It is recommended to the severall Prcsbytries to be diligent in going
about the visitation of kirks within their bounds, conforme to the Act of
Synod formerlie made theranent.
It is appointed by the Lord Bishop and Synod, that no privat minis
ters doe give general! recommendations for supplie, to any persones
whatsomever, as they shall be answerable.
It is appointed that the severall 1'resbytries call befor them such
Schoolmasters and Chaplans as have not taken the Test, and administer
the same unto them.
It is appointed by the Lord Bishop and Synod, that no young men,
who have not formerlie been admitted to the ministrie, shall be receaved
to any Church within this Dioccss, except they first pass the ordinarie
and usuall tryalls bcfor the Presbytries, and be approven and recom
mended by them to the Bishop for reccaveing collatione.
It is appointed by the Lord Bishop and Synod, that there be an
accompt kept upon record, in the respective Presbytrie books, of all
divisiones of Churches for seats, of apretiationes of ministers' manses, of
designations of gleeb, grass, foggage, fevvall, faill, or divott, of all mortifica-
tiones for pious uses, and of ministers' stipends, and the securities therto
belonging, ther to remaine ad futuram ret memoriam.
The Lord Bishop and Synod takeing to their consideration a represen-
tatione made anent the necessitie of buildeing a bridge over the burne
of Tippertie, in the parish of Foverane, by reasone of the great hazard
that people are many tymes brought under in the winter tyme, when that
burne is in spett, seeing it lyes in the hie road to Buchane, did therfor
give libertie to any concerned in building the said bridge, to supplicat
the severall Presbytries within this Diocess, for a voluntarie contributione
for that effect.
1683] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 343
The collcctiones for the harbour of Rosehartie, for the bridge of Invcr-
ncs, and for relieff of the Invernes prisoners, are againe recommended to
those who have not as yet brought the same in.
The Lord Bishop did recommend to the moderators of the severall
Presbytries, to acqaint the bretheren with ane Act of Secret Counsel!,
past in favour of Mr. William Geedes, lait minister at Urquhart, for pub-
lisheing two books, as the Act in itself at more length proports, and
with the termes contained in a printed paper sent therwith, wherupon
the bretheren, or any others that are desyrous may have copies of the
books.
[Alexander Leask, charitable supplye.]
Since the ryseing of the Synod, the Lord Bishop doth hereby con
tinue Mr. William Thomson to be moderator of the Presbytrie of Alfoord
until the nixt Synod, and in his absence Mr. Robert Irvine at Towie is
to moderate.
At Alfoord May 16, (1683).
The minister of Cushnie exercised, &c.
Mr. William Thomson continued moderator, and Mr.
William Garioch continued Clerk.
At Forbes June 13, (1683).
The minister of Cushnie preached on 2 Corinthians 5. 20, and, after
sermon, &c
(The usual course followed, as to minister and elders, and the usual
exhortations given to minister, heritors, and heads of families — see Cush
nie p. 228.)
It is found there is no mortification in the parish for the use of the
poor.
That there was no School (master), in regard the parish was not able
to afford him a maintenance any waycs competent.
The fabric of the Kirk is found to be entire.
As for church utensils, there are found to be a table and two cups for
the use of the holy communion.
344 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1683
Thereafter the minister was interrogate if he had a sufficient Stipend,
manse, gleeb, forage, fewall, feall, and divvot, conforme to the legall
allowance, he answered that he had a gleeb and manse, but not sufficient
according to law, and that he had no legall provision of foggage, fewall,
fcall, or divot, and that his stipend was some more than four hundreth
merks, by a decreit of the Lords of Surrenders of tithes thereupon.
Whereupon he is appointed to provyde himselfe and the Church of those
things wanting, according to law.
[Discipline of Forbes diligently and impartiallie exercised. The anni-
vcrsarie of the King's nativity and restauration duely observed.]
Mr. Robert Chcync, Student in Divinitie, presented a letter from the
moderator of the Presbyterie of Aberdeine, recommending him to this
Exercise, in order to the passing of his tryals as a preacher, having the
Lord Bishop's advyse and consent therto, and the said young man having
produced testimonies from the Professors of Divinitie and Universitie of
Abd., the Presbyterie appointed the said Mr. Robert to have the tryall of
the Languages at the next meeting, which is to be at Tough July 4, for
visitation of that Church &c.
At Tough Julii 4, (1683).
The minister of Lochell preached &c The minister
gave up the names of the elders as follows, viz. John Milne, Alexander
Lainge, William Clerihew, Alexander Gellan, William Lainge, who being
called, compeired, together with some heritors, and masters of families.
(The usual course followed as to minister and elders, and the usual
exhortations given to minister, heritors, elders, and heads of families —
see Cushnie p. 228.)
It is found there is a mortification of one hundreth merks, by one
Blaire, secured upon bond.
That the poor are supplyed at least once every halfe year.
That there is a school in the parish.
The fabrick of the kirk being something ruinous, it is recommended
to the minister to requyre the heritors to see to the reparation thereof.
The minister declared there were no utensils belonging to the church.
It is recommended to him to provyde these.
1683] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD.
345
The minister being interrogate, if he had sufficient stipend, glceb, fog-
gage, fewall, and divot, con forme to the legall allowance. He answered
that he had the same.
[Discipline duly and impartially exercised.]
Thereafter, Mr. Robert Cheyne sustained the tryall of the Languages,
&c
Mr. William Jele, Student in Divinitie, and Schoolmaster at Alfoord,
was recommended by some of the brethcrcn of this Exercise for entering
upon his tryals, in order to publick preaching, the said Mr. William
having undergone formerlie a privat tryall of some of the brethercn ap
pointed by the Presbyterie for that effect, and producing a testimonie
from Mr. John Mcnzies, Professor of Divinitie, was appointed to sustaine
the tryall of the Languages the next day.
At Alfoord July 25, (1683).
Mr. Robert Cheyne sustained his questionarie tryall, and Mr. William
Jelc the tryall of the Languages, and were both approven.
The minister of Tough did delate John Carter, contumacious for his
inhumane and unchristian carriage towards his brother. He is appointed
to be cited to the next meeting pro i°.
The minister of Kildrummie delated Alexander Dumbar contumacious
for publick swearing, in his own hearing, and irreverent carriage towards
him, when he did but mildly rebuke him. He is appointed to be cited to
the next meeting pro i°.
The minister of Keig delated Bessie Thomson, contumacious for curs
ing and scolding, and not reporting a testimonie. She is appointed to be
cited to the next meeting pro i°.
At Alfoord August 22, (1683.)
The brethcrcn conveined, and after prayer, Mr. Robert Cheyne, had
XX
346 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1683
anc Exercise DC. objccto cultus religiosi, and Mr. William Jele sustained
the questionarie try all, and both were approvcn.
The brcthercn talcing into consideration that there was anc act of the
late Synod, requyring all Chaplains and Schoolmasters within their
bounds, who had not as yet taken the Test to compcir befor them, that
the samcn might be administered unto them, it is recommended to the
respective brethercn to requyre such of these as reside within their
bounds, to be present at the next meeting for the effect foresaicl, as they
will be answerable to authority.
The bretheren considering they had onlie visited two Churches this
summer, and finding there were other two viz: the Churches of Kenneth-
mount and Alfoord not at all as yet visited since the present incumbents
their entrie to the mmistrie at the said churches, did therfor appoint a
visitation of the Church of Kenncthmount September fifth, and another
at Alfoord September sixth. The respective ministers hearing this ordi
nance declared they could not be in readines for a visitation of their
churches at the forsaid dyets, wherfor the Presbyterie appointed their
next meeting to be at Alfoord September 12, and the privie censure to
passe upon the bretheren, in order to which, Mr. William Garioch is ap
pointed to have a discourse relating to ministeriall duties, and thereafter,
if tyme permitted, Mr. Robert Cheyne is to sustaine dispute upon his
theses de dicto subjecto, having distribute the same to the respective
bretheren at this meeting.
At Alfoord September 12, (1683).
Mr. William Garioch had a discourse relative to ministeriall duties,
&c Thereafter the privie censure passed on all the
bretheren present.
Mr. William Elphinston, Chaplaine to the laird of Balfluig, Mr. Robert
Mackie, Schoolmaster at Kildrummic, Mr. John Gray, Schoolmaster at
Kennethmount, Mr. Alexander Mitchell, Schoolmaster at Keig, Mr.
Alexander Stephen, Schoolmaster at Strathdonc, Mr. William Young,
Schoolmaster at Tough, and Mr. William Godon, Schoolmaster at Auch-
endore, did all take and subscribe the Test, in presence of the bretheren
mett at the tyme.
1683] OF THE EXERCISE OE ALFORD. 347
The moderator particularlic cnquyred the respective brcthercn, if the
nynth of September, cnjoyned by publick authority, as a clay of solemne
thanksgiving for the preservation of His Majestic and his Royall brother
from the late treasonable conspiracic intended against them, by persons
of phanaticall principles, was religiouslie observed within their congrega
tions. To which they all answered positive.1
[A list of the disorderly persons within the bounds given in.]
At Alfoord September 27, (1683).
By reason of the tempest of weather, conveined onlie the moderator,
&c.
[1 he contributions for pious uses and indigent persons again recom
mended.]
Mr. Alexander Seaton was removed and censured, not being present
the last day at the privie censure, of whom some things were observed
worthy of a publick rebuke, but not to be insert in a publick register.
[Sacrament of the Lord's Supper observed.]
Mr. Robert Cheyne had ane Exercise and Addition, and Mr. William
Jcle had ane Exegesis De perseverantia sanctorum. [Both approven.]
About the close of this meeting, Mr. John Mair, minister, in name of
the heritors of Lochell, and Mr. George Watson, presented ane approba
tion of the manse and bigging of Lochell, approven by the Lord Bishop
of Abd:, and desired the samen might be insert in the Register of the
Presbyterie, therein to remaine ad futurain rei Diemoriain, to which desire
all the bretheren consented. The tenor of which approbation is as
folio wes: —
At the Kirk of Lochell, the second day of November 1682 years,
by virtue of ane edict and commission granted by the Right Reverend
Father in God, George, Bishop of Abel:, which is dated at Abd:, the
first of said November, 1682 yeirs, for appretiating the manse of the
Church of Lochell to the true worth and value thereof. Conveined Mr.
William Thomson, minister at Auchcndore, Mr. Patrick Copland, minis
ter at Cushnie, and Mr. John Alexander, minister at Kildrummic, for the
effect foresaid. The foresaid commissioners finding ane Edict lawfullie
• Note 30.
34^ RECORDS OK THE MEETING [1683
scrvit and indorsed, did cause call at the most patent door of the said
Kirk, all heritors, lyfe renters, wodsetters, and all others having or pre
tending an interest in the said parish, on the one part, and the late in
cumbent, and the present incumbent on the other part, charging them to
object the same day by themselves, or proxies in their name, upon the
said manse for hearing, and send the same, duly apprctiat according to
law. Whereupon compeired Sir John Forbes of Craigievar for himself,
and Mr. George Watson late incumbent, and Mr. John Patton present
incumbent at the said church, and presented befor the said commission
ers these workmen after mentioned viz. : Alexander Morgan in
George Chalmer in Little Endovie, Alexander Forbes in of
Lochell, William Anderson New Milne of Sauchen, and William Thom
son in Xcther Aforsquc, equallie chosen by the said heritors and incum
bents, all men of approver! honcstie, accustomed to apprctiatc manses,
against whom none of the parties (being enquyred) having anie thing to
object, they were judiciallie sworne, and thereafter were put to make in
the said apprctiation, and proceeded therein as follows, Imprimis anc hall
with ane inner chamber on the South end, and ane pantrie on the North
end thereof (the , and stone couples in the said
house, being already payed by the heritors, as the said late incumbent
did judiciallie declare) were apprctiate to the soume of nyntie four pound,
six shilling, eight pennies, Scots money; the doors, windows, and other
particulars within the said house, belonging to the late incumbent, were
appretiate to the soumc of twentic pound, two shilling, money foresaid ;
item, ane outter chamber consisting of two couples sufficientlie timbered
and thatched, with three windows, appretiate to sevcntie eight pounds, six
shilling, eight pennies ; item ane barn of two couples, with back and
facing, appretiate to fiftie pound, six shilling, eight pennies ; item ane
kitchin of ane couple, appretiate to twentie two pound, thirtein shilling,
four pennies; item a stable appretiate to thirtein pound, six shilling, eight
pennies ; ane byre, utter cellar, and henhouse, all under roof, appretiat to
twentie four pounds, the castes, gutturs, &c., in and without the close,
appretiate to sixtein pound ; the corne yeard dykes appretiate to twelve
pound ; the kail yeard dykes appretiate to twentie six pound, thirtein
shilling, four pennies ; the glasse in the windows of the hall, inner and
upper chambers, appretiate to one pound, fiftein shilling — the soume of
all which amounts to three hundreth sixtie nyne pound, ten shilling, four
1683] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 349
pennies, money foresaid. The which appretiation being ended, the said
commissioners did call the workmen befor them, who all unanimouslie
declared (having heard the samen in every particular read unto them)
that the prices above set downe were the just and true value of the
manse. In testimonie wherof thir presents, writn by Mr. John Alex
ander, minister at Kildrummie, are subscribed at Lochell, by the said
commissioners the first day of November 1682 yeirs.
Sic subscribitur Mr. Wm. Thomson
John Alexander
Mr. Pat: Copland.
We, George, by mcrcie of God, Lord Bishop of Abd :, finding that our
Edict was duely executed and returned to the moderator of the Presby-
terie of Alfoord, to whom, with other of his bretheren, commission was
given anent the appretiation of the manse of Lochell, finding that they,
conformc to the commission, have proceeded legally in the said appretia
tion, we doe approve the samen, that all lawfull diligence may proceed
thereupon, by this under our hand, at Edr:, the first day of F'ebruarie
1683 yeirs.
Gco : Abcrdonen.
Wil : Garioch, Clerk to the Presbyterie of Alfoord.
At the King's Colledge Kirk Octr: 10, 1683.
The Presbyterie book of Alfoord, and bretheren of the said Presby
terie were approven by the Lord Bishop and Synod.
Mr. Th: Crevey, Clk.
At Old Aberdeen October 10, 1683.
The bretheren did conveine, and after prayer appointed their next
meeting &c.
Referres of the Diocesian Synod of Abd : had'n at the King's
Colledge Kirk, by ane Reverend Father in God, George, Lord Bishop
of Abd:, and begun October 9, 1683.
Sess : i". ante meridiem.
After sermon had by the Lord Bishop in the Cathedral Church, &c.
350 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [l68-
Scss : 2°. post meridiem.
The Collector of the Ccntcsima having represented that few or none
have given in anie thing thereof since the last Synod, therefor it is ap
pointed by the Lord Bishop and Synod, that these brethcren who shall
not pay in their proportion of the said annuitie, conformc to former Acts
of Synod made theranent, and that against Martinmas next preciselie,
shall be pursued legallie therfor by the Collector, and the Act of the
former Synod, appointing such soumes of money belonging to the said
annuitie, as are lent for the small parcels, to be gathered in, and lent out
in greater soumes together, is hereby renewed.
It is appointed by the Lord Bishop and Synod that there be ane uni-
formitie observed in catechizing the people within this Diocess, and for
that effect that there be anc Catechisme drawn up in the best and plainest
manner, touching all the principall heads of Christianitie, which are most
necessarie to be known by all, as also that there be a forme of morning
and evening prayer drawn up for church readers, and it is recommended
to the Professors of Divinitie, the ministers of New and Old Abd:, the
parson of Banchorie Devenick, to meet together at such dyets as they
shall think fit, for drawing up the Catechisme, formes of prayers foresaid,
who are to give ane account of their diligence herein at the next Synod ;
as also it is recommended to the forsaid bretheren to draw up a forme of
absolution and relaxation for the sentence of excommunication.
October 10. Sess : 3°. ante meridiem.
It is appointed by the Lord Bishop and Synod that such persons as
work upon dayes of publick thanksgiving, or humiliation, and doe not
keep the publick worship, shall be censured as contemners of the publick
ordinances and Synod referres, and that intimation hereof be made to
the severall congregations within this Diocess.
It being represented to the Lord Bishop and Synod, that wheras there
have some differences latelie arisen in parishes anent the nominating and
presenting a bedel all, or kirk officer, when the place is vacant, occasioned
by the heritors their pretending a right of nomination therunto, and that
therfor it was expedient for obviating anie such debates in tyme coming,
1683] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD.
351
that the Lord Bishop and Synod should declare their judgement there-
anent, which the Lord Bishop and Synod taking to their consideration,
and finding that the duties which are chieflie incumbent to the beddall are
such as wherein the minister is more particularlie concerned, and for the
honest and faithfull discharge of which the minister is to be accountable
to the Church, namclic, the citeing of delinquents befor the Session and
Prcsbyterie, opening of church doors, and ringing the bels to the publick
worship, and keeping the utensils which belong to the church, and seeing
in reason it cannot be expected that a minister shall be answerable for
the beddal's readie and faithfull discharge of these, and such like offices,
if there be a person chosen by the heritors onlie, and consequentlie having
his dependence upon them, and who will therefor be more readie to obey
them than the minister, did therefor ordainc and declare that, for the
said and scverall other reasons, the right and power of nominating and
choosing the kirk officer docs belong to the minister, only he is to
acquaint the members of the Session with the person whom he is to
pitch upon for that office, that if any lawfull impediment shall be objected
and made out against him another may be chosen by the minister.
It is appoynted by the Lord Bishop and Synod, that no ministers
within this Diocess grant supplie out of their Sessions to such persons as
go to the country with pretended testimonials, unless they be either re
commended by the Lords of His Majestie's Privie Councill, or Lord
Bishop of Aberdeine.
It is recommended by the Lord Bishop and Synod to the Bretheren,
to correspond with one another in processing scandallous persons, who
remove from one congregation to another, untill they returne to the par
ish where they are under scandall, and remove the same.
It is recommended to such of the brethcren of this Diocess as have
not yet brought in the contribution appointed by Act of Secret Coun
cill for building the bridge of Leven at Dumbartan, to collect the samen
with the first convenient dilligence, and send it to William Mackie, jani
tor of the King's Colledge, who hath a factorie from the generall collec
tors for receiving the forsaid contribution.
[Contributions for the harbours of Aberdeene and Rosehartie againe
recommended.]
The Presbyterie book of Alfoord, and brethcren of the said Presby-
terie are approven by the Lord Bishop and Synod.
352 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1684
Anent ane supplication presented by Mr. Arthur Farquharson of
Cults, humblie shewing the great necessity of building a bridge over the
water of Garden, in the Parish of Glengarden, and earnestlie supplicating,
that ane warrand might be given by the Lord Bishop and Synod for ane
voluntar contribution from the severall congregations within this Diocess
for that effect ; which the Lord Bishop and Synod taking to their serious
consideration, do hereby give order and warrand for a voluntar contribu
tion to be gathered from the severall congregations within this Diocess,
for the effect forsaid, and do scriouslie recommend to the severall minis
ters to make intimation thereof to their respective congregations, to
cause deliver the said collections to the said Mr. Arthur Farquharson, or
his factors, that they may be imployed for the effect as said is, and that
with the first convenient diligence.
Indigent persons recommended to the charitable supplie
are Patrick Gordon, sometymc of Gordonemilne, and Mr. Alexander
Lind.
The Lord Bishop appointed Mr. Robert Irvine,
minister at Towie, to be moderator of the Prcsbyterie of Alfoord, and in
his absence Mr. Andrew Jaffray minister at Alfoord.
At Alfoord November 7, (1683).
Mr. Robert Cheyne had a popular sermon on Matthew 5. 48, and was
approven in this and the rest of his tryals, and appointed to have a
recommendation to the Lord Bishop for licence to preach publicklie.
At Alfoord December 5, 1683.
By reason of the great storme lying on the ground, conveined onlie,
&c.
[Appointed trials of Mr. William Jele.]
At Alfoord Januar 2d, 1684.
Mr. William Jele exercised, &c
1684] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORI). 353
By reason of the great stormc lying on the ground, there conveined
onlie the ministers of Auchendore, Kildrummie, Alfoord, Lochell, with
the Clerk.
At Alfoord Januar 23'', (1684).
By reason of the great storme lying on the ground, there was no
meeting of the Presbyterie.
At Alfoord Februar 20'", (1684).
Mr. William Jele preached, &c.
[Next meeting is appointed.]
At Alfoord March 19, (1684).
By reason of the tempcstuousnes of the weather, there was no meet
ing of the Presbyterie.
At Alfoord Aprylc 9, (1684).
The meeting being constituted by prayer. The said day, it being
found that, by virtue of ane order from the Lord Bishop, appointing the
last tryall of Mr. William Jele to be cxpcde for sustaining of his dispute
by two or three of the nearest ministers to the Presbyterie seat, which
was accordinglie done, and he approven of, and thereupon he had receaved
the Lord Bishop his licence to preach publicklie, upon which considera
tion, there was no Exercise this day, because of the former appointment
to take up and expedc the last tryall of the said Mr. William Jele.
[The contributions for the bridges of Leven and Garden, Aberdeene
harbour and Rosehartie were particularlie recommended.]
As also it was intimate that the other Act appointing the punctual!
observation of fasts and feasts and abstaining from mannuall exercise
and working on the said dayes should be imediatly intimate from the
YY
354 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1684
scvcrall pulpits, in order to the more punctual! observation thereof, and
bringing of delinquents, contraveners of the said Act, to due and cxemp-
larie punishment.
[The privy censure undergone.]
Application being made by Mr. John Walker, minister of Tullinessell,
unto the bretheren, in behalf of his son Mr. Alexander Walker, for
presenting of him to the Divinitie burse of Alfoord and Turreff, now
vacant, and whose vice it is to present, the bretheren finding the justice
of the desire, and the consistencie therof with the foundation, did unani-
mouslie accord therunto.
Will : Garioch, Clerk.
Aprylc 1 6, 1684.
The Presbyterie book of Alfoord is approvcn by the Lord Bishop
and Synod of Aberdein.
Mr. Th : Crevey, Clerk to the Synod.
At the King's Colledgc Abd : Apryle 16, 1684.
The bretheren did conveine, and appointed their next meeting &c.
Referres of the Dioceslan Synod of Aberdcine holden in Apryle 1684.
At King's Colledge Kirk Apryle 15.
Scss : 2 . post meridiem.
The Collector of the Centesima did represent that the brethren are
verie slow in paying that annuitie, notwithstanding of severall Acts of
Synod made theranent, and some have never as yet subscribed the bond,
nor payed anything of the said annuitie. Therfor the Lord Bishop and
Synod did appoint that the Collector give up the names of such as have
not subscribed the bond, to their respective moderators, and that they be
requyred to subscribe once befor the rising of this Synod.
The Lord Bishop did represent that, conforme to ane Act of the
former Synod, he had made his application to the Lords of His Majestie's
OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 355
Secret Council!, anent the changing of the Timber mercat in summer,
from Munday to a more convenient clay of the week, for preventing any
further prophanation of the Lord's day, by people travelling to mercats
upon the Sabbath ; and that accordinglie they had past ane Act, ap
pointing the Timber mercat of St. Serf's and Laurence fairs to be changed
o
from the Munday to Tuesday, which Act is to be publicklie intimate at
the Mercat Crosses of the head Burghs of Shyres nearest adjacent.
[The contributions for the harbours of Aberdeen and Roschartic, for
the bridges of Lcven and Garden.]
It is recommended to the severall Presbyteries, to be diligent this
ensuing Summer in going about the visitation of Churches within their
bounds, and that they give ane account of their diligence thereanent at
the next Synod.
It is appointed that when any persons are excommunicat in a con
gregation, intimation thereof to be made throughout all the congregations
within the Presbyterie.
The severall Presbyteries being scverallie removed, in order to privie
censure, were approven by the Lord Bishop and Synod, and the modera
tors are continued as formerlie.
Indigent persons recommended for supplie are Janet Paip, relict of
the cleceist Mr. James Rennie, lait Schoolmaster at Kemnay, who had
her house with a child and whole goods burned by accidental fire.
Davie Hay, a poor man in the'parish of Peterhead, George
in the parish of Rathven, and Alexander Lind.
At Alfoord May 14, 1684.
The minister of Alfoord had the discourse &c.
[Publick fast had been observed.]
By appointment of the Ordinarie, Mr. Robert Irvine is continued
moderator, and Mr. William Garioch officiating as Clerk.
At Alfoord June 4, (1684).
There was no exercise, &c.
356 RECORDS OF TIIK MEETING [1684
[Centcsiina, bridges of Leven, Garden, harbour of Abd :, and visitation
of churches recommended. The 29th of May had been duly observed.]
The next meeting is appointed to be at Kenncthmount July 2'1., at
visitation of that Church, the minister of Auchindore is appointed to
preach &c.
At Kennethmount July 2, (1684).
The minister of Auchendore preached &c
The minister gave in a list of the Elders names as followes, Patrick
Lcith, John Robertson, John Gordon, James Wright, John Mathieson,
David Couts, Francis Farquharson, Alexander Farquharson, who being
called compeircd with such other of the heritors, and masters of families
as were present.
(The usual course followed as to minister and elders, and the usual
exhortations given to minister, heritors, ciders, and heads of families —
see Cushnie p. 228.)
Thereafter, the elders being called in, the minister was further in
terrogate if there were any mortifications in the parish, who answered
there were none.
It is found there is no School. The heritors were seriouslie dealt with
to provyde a maintenance for a Schoolmaster.
Anent utensils, it is found there is a laver for baptisme, two tables for
the Communion, two cups of tiun, a table cloath.
It is found that the kirk is sufficientlie repaired.
That the minister's stipend is three chalder of victuall, three hundreth
merks of money, and the vicarage estimate to two hundreth merks, that
he is provyded of foggage, fewall, faill, and divot, only he wants grasse,
which he is appoynted to provyde the Church of.
[Session book visited, the discipline diligently and impartially
exercised.]
The next meeting is appointed to be at Alfoord for a visitation of
that church, where the minister of Kildrummie is appointed to preach,
&c.
(14 cases of discipline — one of them Margaret Couper, from Kildrum
mie, " in sackcloath humblie supplicating to be alsolved.")
UK THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 357
At Alfoord July 30, (1684.)
The minister of Kildrummie preached &c., and after sermon, &c.
The minister gave in a list of his Elders' names as followes, Archibald
Reid, William Smith, James Elmslie, William Elmslie, William Morti
mer, William Mathie, John Coupland, Patrick Tailor, who being called
did compeir, with such of the heritors, and masters of families as were
present.
(The usual course followed as to minister and elders, and the usual
exhortations given to minister, heritors, elders, and heads of families— see
Cushnie p. 228.)
It is found there are sevcrall mortifications, amounting to two thou
sand, five hundreth pounds, for the use of Schoolmaster and poor, suffici-
entlie secured.
That there is a Schoolmaster, and competent provision for him, who
being enquyred after was found to attend and discharge his calling faith-
fullie, and that the School was in a flourishing condition.
That the fabrick of the Church was in repaire.
Anent the utensils, it is found there is a laver for baptisme, a large
table for the communion, two tiun cups for the same.
That the minister has a competent Stipend, manse, gleib, foggage,
fewall, faile, and divvot, and grass legallie setled.
[Session book visited, the discipline impartiallie exercised, and the
money for pious uses duly distributed.]
At Alfoord August! 20, (1684).
The minister of Lochell exercised, &c.
[Next meeting privie censure.]
At Alfoord September 10, (1684).
The Minister of Clat had a discourse relating to the duties of minis
ters the severall bretheren present did undergo the
privie censure.
358 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1684
At Alfoord October Ist, 1684.
The minister of Auchendore exercised, &c.
[Communion observed Centesima and Bridge of Garden.]
The ministers of Kennethmont, Glenbuckct, and Cabrach, having
referrs, and giving no account of them by a line, are appointed to be
censured.
Wil: Garioch, Clerk.
At the King's Collcdge Kirk October 15, 1684.
The Presbyterie book of Alfoord, and brethercn of the said Presbytrie
were approven by the Lord Bishop and Synod of Aberdeine.
Mr. Th: Crevey, Clk:
Referres of the Diocesian Synod of Aberdeine holdcn in October
1684.
At the King's Colledge Kirk, Octobris 14. Sess: i°. post
meridiem.
The Collector of the Centesima did report that he had his accompts
in readines to be revised, and therfor desired that the Lord Bishop and
Synod would appoint some bretheren to meet with him for that effect.
Wherfor it is recommended to Dr. James Garden, Professor, Dr. Patrick
Sibbald, Dr. Blair, and Dr. George Garden, to meet with the Collector,
and revise his accompts, and make report to the Lord Bishop and Synod
at the next sederunt. The Collector forsaid did likewise represent that,
notwithstanding the advertisement given by the Lord Bishop in face of
Synod, Apryle last, yet there are severals deficient in paying in their
proportions of the said annuitie, and that some, who have latelie entered
into the ministerie, have not as yet subscribed the bond, therfor the Lord
Bishop and Synod do appoint that such as are deficient in making pay
ment, shall take course to satisfie the Collector once this night, other-
vvayes legall diligence is to be used against them, and that such as have
not subscribed the bond shall do it once after the rising of the Synod.
1684] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 359
It being represented that Mr. William Garioch, minister at Forbes,
doth decline to subscribe the bond for the Centesiwa, or to pay any part
therof, therfor it is recommended to the moderator of the Presbyterie of
Alfoord, to call him to ane account hereanent at their next Presbyteriall
meeting, and to require him to give satisfaction to the Collector, and that
report be made in the Presbyterie book of the said Mr. William his
obedience thereunto.
It is recommended to the severall Presbyteries to process such per-
sones as have been disorderly married within their bounds, as also all
such as have received the benefit of baptisme to their children from
persons not authorized.
The Lord Bishop and Synod considering that, although there had
been severall Overtures proposed for ane uniformitie of Catechisme
within this Diocess, and some Acts of Synod had been made, appointing
some bretheren to meet for expeding that affair, and other particulars
anent formes of morning and evening prayer for Church Readers, and a
forme of relaxation from the sentence of excommunication, and other
such things then recommended, yet little or nothing had been done in
order therunto, did therfor appoint that the Doctors and ministers of
New and Old Abd:, Dr. Innes, Dr. Rose parson of Banchorie, and mod
erator of Garioch, shall meet at the Bishop's lodgings, upon Tuesday
next, for setting that work upon foot, and for taking course to prosecute
the same at such dyets as shall then be condescended upon.
It being represented to the Lord Bishop and Synod that some minis
ters have taken upon them to transact anent the Church's rights and
priviledges, with heritors and others, to the great detriment and prejudice
of the church, therfor the Lord Bishop and Synod did ordain, that no
ministers shall, upon any account whatsomcver, transact or exchange the
Church's rights and priviledges, with any persons whatsomever, as they
will be answerable, unles they have the Bishop and Synod's consent
and approbation therunto.
October 15 Sess : 3 ante meridiem.
The bretheren appointed to revise Dr. Innes his accounts of the Cen-
tesima gave in their report theranent viz : that they, having revised the
same, have found them very exact and orderly, and that he hath taken
considerable pains in that affair, and that there is the soum of three
360 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1684
thousand libs. Scots of the said money lent forth upon sufficient securitie,
and that there is ane hundreth and sevcntie eight libs, lying in his hand,
which he hath but lately received from some brethcrcn as their propor
tions, as his accompts at more length doe bear, wherupon the Lord
Bishop and Synod found themselves oblidged to return their heartie
thanks to the Collector forsaid for his pains and diligence in that affair,
and did approve his accompts and continue him Collectour.
The Lord Bishop and Synod considering that severall young men who
pretending a purpose of prosecuting their studies in order to the minis-
terie, and having been presented to Presbyterie burses, have, notwith
standing, afterwards turned of to secular imployments, did therfor ordain
that no young men shall be nominatte Presbyterie burses, except they be
found upon examination to be of good parts and qualifications, and will
oblidge themselves to follow their studies in order to the ministerie.
The Lord Bishop and Synod considering that wheras, by severall
Acts of Synod, there have been dayes of solemne fasting and humiliation
observed throughout this Diocess befor oatseed and harvest, for begging
the Lord's blessing upon the seasons of the year respective, and seeing
that the Lord hath been calling loudlie upon all ranks and degrees to be
humbled and repent for the abuse of plentie, and abounding iniquities in
the land, and that both by the severity of the last winter, and extreme
drought of this summer, wherby the fruits of the ground were in hazard
to be burnt up, and by the great and continued inundations of rain in
and since the harvest, wherby the cornes, both in the y cards and fields,
have been greatly cnclamaged by rotting, have therfor thought fitt to
appoint that there shall be a day of solemne fasting and humiliation
observed yearly throughout all this Diocess, upon the second Weddens-
day of February, for begging of a blessing upon the seed tyme, and anc
other day of solemne fasting and humiliation observed yearly, upon the
second YVcddensday of July for supplication for a blessing upon the
harvest, and that intimation hereof be made tymously to the respective
congregations within this Diocess, before the forsaid seasoncs.
It is recommended to the brethcren of this Diocess to be present at,
and countenance the reading of the holy Scriptures in the respective
churches upon the Lord's day befor sermon, that therby their people may
OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 361
be oblidged the more frequentlie to repair to, and more reverently to
attend upon the said ordinance, which is so much everywhere neglected.
The contributions for the harbours of Pcterhead and Stonehyve, and
for the bridges of Leven and Garden respective, are again recommended,
conforme to the Act of the Secret Councell theranent.
Anent a petition given in to the Lord Bishop and Synod, by Arthure
Robertsone, tenant in Cabrachstoune, in the pariochin of Old Machar,
humblic shewing that it having pleased God that, upon the 22 clay of
September last, one of his barncs did accidentally take fire, wherby not
only the barnes and comes therin, but his whole corne yeard, were irre-
coverablie lost, so that he is reduced to great misery, and utterly incapable
of labouring his land again, unles good and charitable Christians whose
heartes the Lord shall move doe contribute for his supplie, and therfor
earnestly supplicating that order and warrand may be given for a volun
tary contribution to be gathered throughout this Diocess for the effect
forsaid. The Lord Bishop and Synod taking the caise of the said
Arthure unto their serious consideration, herby recommend him to
charitable supplie of the severall congregations within this Diocess;
and to the end, that it may be more speedie and effectual!, it is re
commended to the severall moderators to requyre the bretheren to
make intimation herof to their respective congregations forthwith after
the coming of the referrs to their hands, and that they shall receive
the Collections from the bretheren, and send the same to the Clerk of
the Synod, who will be found at Catharine Rosse's house, at Old Abd:,
and will grant receipt to each Presbyterie therupon.
Mr. Arthur Abercrombie, late Schoolmaster at Towie, and now para-
lytick, and therby redacted to great povertie and distress, is recom
mended to the charitable supplie of the severall congregations within
this Diocess.
The severall Presbyteries being removed in order to privie censure,
had a good testimonie, and were approvcn, and the moderators are con
tinued as formerly.
At the King's Colledge October 15, 1684.
The bretheren did conveinc, and after prayer, appointed their next
362 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1685
meeting to be at Alfoorcl, November 12th, and the minister of Kildrumie
to have the exercise upon I Corinthians 2. 5.
At Alfoord November 12, 1684.
By reason of the stormines of the day, &c. [Meeting adjourned.]
At Alfoord December ioth, (1684).
The minister of Kildrumie exercised, &c.
The moderator is continued by the appointment of the Lord Bishop.
At Alfoord Januarii 7th, 1685.
The minister of Keig exercised &c
The minister of Kennethmount being enquired the reason of his fre
quent absence, declared that all the while he was valetudinarie, and could
not personallie keep, but was sharply rebuked for not wryting having
referrs.
At Alfoord Februarii 4th, 1685.
The minister of Forbes exercised, &c.
[Fast enjoyned by the Synod to be keeped upon the Second Tuesday
of Februar, for craving the Lord's blessing upon the seed tyme.]
The ministers of Glenbucket and Cabrach being required to give ane
account of their absence for the severall clayes bypast, gave in their
severall excuses, which were sustained, but were rebuked for not sending
their referrs, and were enjoyned to keep better in tymc coming.
At Alfoorcl March 4, (1685).
The minister of Clat exercised, &c.
1 685] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 363
The next inciting the privie censure to pass upon
the respective brethcren, &c.
[The fast hath been observed.]
At Alfoord Apryle I, (1685).
The privie censure did not pass.
The next melting is appoyntcd to be Apryle 22.
[Next day the privie censure is to pass.]
At Alfoord Apryle 22, (1685).
The minister of Strathdonc had a discourse regarding the duties of
ministers, &c.
[The privie censure past upon the respective brethren.]
The next melting is appoynted for a visitation of the Church of Keig,
May 20th, &c.
At Keig May 20'", (1685).
The minister of Forbes preached, &c.
The minister gave in a list of the elders' names as followes, George
Leith, Patrick Mor, John Farquharson, Alexander Vicar, Alexander
Leslie, John Forbes, Alexander Foulertoim, who being called, compeired,
with such other of the heritors and masters of families as were present.
(The usual course followed as to ministers and elders, and the usual
exhortations given to minister, heritors, elders, and heads of families— see
Cushnie p. 228.)
It is found there is a mortification of twentie merks sufficientlie
secured.
That there is a School and Schoolmaster competently provyded, unto
whom the minister, heritors, and elders gave a good testimonie.
It is found lykwayes that the edifice of the Church and Kirkyard
dykes were in sufficient repair.
364 RECORDS OK THE MEETING [1685
Ancnt utensils, the minister delaired that they were provydcd of two
tiun cups for the Communion, a laver and a bason, two table cloathes,
and a Kirk Bible.
The minister being interrogat if he had sufficient provision legallie
setled as to his manse, gleeb, grass, foggage, fewall, fail, and divvet, and
stipend, answered affirmatively.
[Session Book formal, and discipline orderly.]
At Alfoord Junii 17, (1685).
The minister of Tullinessell exercised, &c.
[Fast for God's blessing upon the harvest.]
At Alfoord July 15, (1685).
The moderator exercised, &c.
The next meiting to be at Lochell for visitation of the forsaid
Church, &c.
[Fast was observed.]
At Lochell Augustii 19, (1685).
The minister of Keig preached, &c.
The minister gave in a list of the elders' names, viz. : James Stirdes,
Alexander Couts, William Sharp, William Copland, William Farquhar-
son, Alexander Milne, and John Garioch, who being called did compeir,
with such other of the heritors and masters of families as were present.
(The usual course followed as to minister and elders, and the usual
exhortations given to minister, heritors, elders, and heads of families — see
Cushnie p. 228.)
It is found there is no mortification in the parish.
1685] OK THE EXERCISE OF ALKOkD. 365
That there is no School. It was seriously recommended to the heri
tors to setle such a competent maintenance by law, as the parish was
capable to bear, who peremptorily engaged so to doe, and that with all
possible diligence.
It is lykwayes found there are two silver cups, tables, and anc table-
cloath for the communion, lykwayes a Kirk Bible, but no laver for bap-
tismc. lie is ordained to provydc the Church therof.
That the Kirk is in sufficient repair.
That the minister hath a competent Stipend, manse, glceb, foggage,
fewall, feall, and divvet, with grass Icgallic setled.
[Nothing in the Session register worthie of public notice or censure.]
The next melting Mr. Alexander Walker, bursar of
Divinitie to have a comon head De traditionibus non scriptis.
The moderator having enquyred of the bretheren, anent the observa
tion of the publick thanksgiving enjoyned by Authoritie, for the victories
obtained by His Majestic over his rebellious subjects. All of them being
present, declaired they had punctually observed the samen.1
At Alfoord September 9th, (1685).
Mr. Alexander Walker had his common head De traditionibus non
scriptis, &c.
[The next meiting the privie censure to pass upon
the respective bretheren.]
At Alfoord September 23, (1685).
The minister of Cabrach had the discourse relating to pastorall
duties, &c [The brethren sustained the privy censure.
Contributions and Centesinia recommended. Sacrament observed. Pay
ment of the bursar of Divinitie.]
Wil: Garioch, Clerk.
At the King's Colleclge Kirk October 6, 1685.
The Presbyterie book of Alfoord is approven by the Lord Bishop
and Synod of Aberdeen.
Mr. Th: Crevey, Clerk.
1 Note 31.
366 UKCOKDS OK TIIK MKKTING [1685
At Old Aberdeen Oct: 7th, 1685.
The brethercn did conveen, and, after prayer, appoynted their next
inciting to be at Alfoord, October 28, and Mr. Alexander Walker, bursar
of Divinitie, to sustainc dispute upon the theses de dicto subjecto, having
distribute the samen to the respective brcthcren at this melting.
Rcferrs of the Diocesian Synod of Aberdeen, in October 1685.
At the King's Colledge Kirk October 6. Sess: 2°. post meri
diem.
After prayer, the Lord Bishop did represent that there being ane Act
of the Synod in October last, appoynting some bretheren to meet, for
drawing up some forms of prayer for Kirk Readers, and for doing such
other things as were then recommended to them, he had in the confer
ence requyred ane account from the said bretheren of their diligence
thereanent, and had found that they had keeped severall meitings in
Abd : since the last Synod, for promoveing that work, and had conde
scended upon some prayers to be used by Kirk Readers in the churches
where there are prayers morning and evening, and to be used upon the
Lord's day befor reading the Scriptures ; as also that they had drawn up
some short petitions or Collects, to be insert and made use of in the said
prayers upon some particular occasions, and that they had noted some
places of Scripture which they judged most proper to be read at extraor
dinary dyets ; and that they had condescended upon a method of reading
the holy Scriptures in congregations throwout the year, and had drawn
up some forms of prayer to be used in families morning and evening,
together with some prayers to be said by children, but that the forsaid
prayers were not as yet drawn up in vmndo, but, God willing, they are
shortly to be expeed, and copies thcrof to be sent forth to the severall
Presbyteries ; and it is recommended to the bretheren, that each of them
shall, with all diligence, provide themselves with a copie of the said
devotions, how soon they come to the moderator's hands, and that they
be carefull to cause observe the same within their respective congrega
tions.
Anent the Centesima, the Collector gave ane account of his diligence
in collecting the same, and it is appoynted, that such as have not yet
1685] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 367
payed in their proportions therof shall wait upon the Collector once this
night, for that effect, and that such as are laitly entered, and have not
subscribed the bond, shall doe it once befor the rysing of the Synod.
The Professors of Divinity having represented that some of the Pres-
byterie bursars arc very negligent in attending the profession, therfor the
Lord Bishop and Synod did renue all former Acts of Synod made anent
them, and did appoint that they shall come in and attend the profession
yearly, against the first of December precisely, and shall continue punctu
ally to attend until the first of June, and if it shall happen that they doe
not present themselves at the day forsaid, they arc to lose a dollar of
their bursar's money for everie weeke's absence therafter, and if any of
them shall be absent from the profession untill the first of January, they
are to lose their burs intirely for that year, and if they remove befor the
first of June as said is, they are to lose a dollar of their burs money for
everie weeke's absence befor the tyme, iboth money is to be delivered by
the moderators, upon advertisement, to the Professors of Divinity, to be
imployed by them as they shall think most convenient. And the Pro
fessors are herby ordained to send advertisement to the respective mod
erators if their bursars be come in to attend the profession at the dyet
prefixed, and how long they have been absent, and in lyke manner shall
acquaint the moderators with the tyme of their removall, and how they
have behaved, or attended, during their stay, and the Professors are to
admit none of the bursars into their school, but such as are grave in their
habit and deportment, and lest any of them should complaine that they
cannot come in tymously to attend the profession, by reason of their not
being payed of their bursar's money, therfor it is appoyntecl that the
severall Presbyteries cause pay their bursars the one half of their burs
money precisely at Martinmess, or at farthest befor the first of December,
and the other half to be sent in to them with the first convenience ther
after, and that, in tyme coming, none be admitted to Presbyterie burses,
but such as are of hopefull pairts, and will give assurance that they
intend the ministeriall calling, and that speciall respect be had to minis
ters' children, and they preferred to Presbyterie burses befor others.
The Lord Bishop did report that there is ane Act of His Majestie's
Counsell laitly emitted appoynting the fourteenth of this instant, to be
observed throughout this Kingdom, as His Majestie's birthday, and that
the Shirrcffs are appoynted to distribute copies of the said Act, to the
368 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1685
ministers within their respective shyrcs, to be read from pulpit the Lord's
day imediatly preceiding, for giving advertisement to their congregations
of the said dyet, and therfor it is seriously recommended to all the
brethercn \vithin this Diocess to be carcfull to observe the day forsaid,
conforme to the said Act theranent, in all poynts, and it is lykwayes or
dained that the severall moderators call their bretheren to anc account,
how the said day hath been observed by them in their congregations, and
cause insert the report theranent in their Presbyterie registers.
The Presbyterie book of Alfoord is approven.
Octobris /. Sess: 3'. Ante meridiem.
It is appoynted by the Lord Bishop and Synod that, when any per
sons arc excommunicate for scandals, the peopell be frequently exhorted
to abandone their society, that so they may be brought to a sense of
their sin, and ashamed therof.
The ministers' relicts formerly enrolled for supplic are appoynted to
be againe supplied by the Collector of the Centesima^ and each of them is
to get at this tyme twentie merks, by reasone they have received nothing
from the Synod in October last.
The Lord Bishop did seriously recommend to such of the bretheren
as have not brought in the contributions from their respective congrega
tions for the harbours of Peterhead and Stonehyve, and for the Bridges of
Garden and Dumbartoune, to be carcfull to collect the same with the
first diligence, and deliver the same to the respective Collectors, as was
formerly appoynted.
The severall Presbyteries being removed in order to privie censure,
had a good tcstimonie, and were approven, and the moderators are con
tinued as formerly, and the Lord Bishop did seriously exhort the bre
theren to look to themselves and to their severall flocks, over which the
Lord had made them overseers, and that they be carefull to guard their
people against apostacie to popcrie and quakerism, and for this effect
that they be diligent in instructing and catechising them in the principles
of the true religion, and exhorting them to the severall duties of Christi
anity, both of piety towards God, loyaltie to the King, and righteousness
towards all men, and seriously recommended to them to be rigorous in
the exercise of discipline, conforme to the former Acts of Synod, and
1685] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 369
that such old processes as are lying over, be, with all diligence, brought
to a close, and when scandalous persons remove from one parish to
another, they are to be sent back with all diligence for removing the
scandall.
[Indigent persons recommended for supply.]
Since the rysing of the Synod, the Lord Bishop hath thought fitt to
recommend to the bretheren to be carefull in administering the Sacra
ment of the Lord's Supper at Easter yeirly, and to instruct their peopell
in order therunto, and that no minister appoynt dayes of fasting in their
congregations upon the Lord's day.
At the Kirk of Cushnie the 14'" day of March, in the year of
God 1678 years.
By virtue of a commission from the Right Reverend Father in God,
Patrick, by the mercie of God, Lord Bishop of Abd:, conveened Mr.
George Melvill, moderator of the Presbyterie of Alfoord, Mr. Adam
Barclay, minister at Keig, Mr. William Burnet, minister at Kildrumie,
and Mr. Patrick Gordon, minister at Coull, who finding ane Edict law-
fullie execut and indorsed, chairging the severall heritors of the parioch
of Cushney, to compeir the said day, at the forsaid Kirk, to hear and
see the forsaid commissioners pass to the designation of gleeb, foggage,
fewall, faill, clivet, and grass, conform to Act of Parliament, in the behalf
of Mr. Patrick Copland, and his successors, ministers at the said Kirk.
The said Edict being called, compeired Arthour Forbes of Brux, and Mr.
Lumsden of Cushney for their interests, and neither they nor any else
objecting any relevant reason in the contrarie, the said Commissioners
did proceid as follows viz: having measured the gleeb they found the
samen competent and full according to law, as lykewayes they designed
the said Mr. Patrick Copland and his successors to be served of foggage,
faill, and divet, upon the nearest adjacent lands belonging to the said
Alexander Lumsden, of the Kirktoune of Cushney, when the tennants and
and possessors are served, with free issue and entrie therto; as lykewayes,
whilest they were about to designe other grass, if any could be found,
or value conform to the Act of Parliament, the said Alexander Lums
den produced a paper, containing ane allowance of ane certainc ward,
bewest the church, formcrlic designed by Mr. Alexander Guthrie, minister
AAA
370 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1685
at Tullincssell, and Alexander Lumsden of Clova, by virtue of a refer
ence made to them by John Lumsden of Cushney, and Mr. James Leisk,
minister at Cushney, which was done upon the second day of September,
in the year of God 1614 years, as the said paper, subscribed with their
hands, at more length conteines, which ward the said Alexander Lums
den offered should be appropriat to the minister, and his successors in all
tyme coming for grasse. And the said commissioners having viewed the
ground of the said ward, as it is meithcd and marked in the said paper,
and finding the samcn to be sufficient, and the offer rational, did decern
the samen to belong to the minister and his successors in all tyme com
ing ; and the said commissioners having viewed, and some of them being
acquaint with the ground of the mosses of the said parish, judged that the
moss of Curquhinderland was the neerest adjacent to the Church, and of
which they thought it fitt that the minister and his successors should be
served, and that designation might passe therupon at any tyme con
venient, when the minister might require the samen, not being sufficient
tyme to exped the same at present. In tcstimonie of which the pre
misses, they are written by George Ross, notar publick, and subscribed by
the said Commissioners, day, place, moncth, and year of God forsaid.
Sic Subscribitur Geo. Melvill, Moderator.
A. B arc lay
Mr. Wil: Burnet.
We Patrick, by the mercie of God, Bishop of Aberdeen, having seen
and considered the above written designation of glceb, grass, faill, and
divet, for the minister at the Kirk of Cushney, and his successors, doe
find the samen orderly gone about, and doe ratifie and approve the
samen.
Given under our hand at Aberdeen, March 18, 1678.
Sic Subscribitur Tat: Bp: of Aberdeen.
At Alfoord October 28, 1685.
The meeting being constitute by prayer, &c.
Mr. Alexander Walker sustained dispute upon his theses DC tradi-
tionibus, and was approvcn.
1685] OF Till-] KXERCISK OK ALFORI). 371
In order to a slander unjustly cast upon the minister of Kildrumie, by
Mr. Alexander Mitchell, Schoolmaster at Keig, concerning alleaclged
command given by him to his servants, for cutting clounc of his conies
upon the Lord's day, the first motion wherof was made by some bre-
theren of another Prcsbyteric, in the conference in the laite October
Synod 1685, and for the clearing of which, application being made by
the minister to the Lord Bishop theranent, humblie craving his Lord
ship's best advyce for reparation of his good name, and vindication of his
office so unjustly impeached, was desired for to cite the forsaicl Mr.
Alexander Mitchell befor the Presbyterie, which accordingly being done,
he compeired, and having acknowledged the chairge, was cnjoyned to
make publick acknowledgment of the samen befor the congregations of
Kildrumie and Keig two severall Lord's daycs, subscribed with his hand.
The tenor wherof is as follovves : —
I, Mr. Alexander Mitchell, present Schoolmaster at Keig, in regaird
that of late I have imprudentlie, and contrarie to charitie, misreported
Mr. John Alexander, minister at Kildrumie, asserting that he had caused
cut doune some of his comes on the Lord's day, wherfor by these pre
sents I testifie and declaire that it was a gross mistake by me, and spoken
by me upon no just ground, and, being sensible of this my offence am
heartily sorie for it, and willing to submit myself to any censure which
the Presbyterie of Alfoord shall be pleased to impose upon me. As
witnesseth my hand at Alfoord the 28 day of October 1685 years.
Sic subscribitur Al: Mitchell.
which declaration is, by appointment of the Presbyterie, to be intimate in
the respective parish Churches, within the bounds of the Presbyterie.
[Anent the observation of the fourteenth day of October last, appoyn-
ted by Authentic for the solemn observation of His Majestie's birth, and
it is found that it hath been duely observed by all present.]
At Alfoord November 25, 1685.
The minister of Kearn exercised, &c.
372 RECORDS OK THE MKETINC [1686
The former ordinance anent Mr. Alexander Mitchell, upon enquirie,
it is found to be observed as it was enjoyned.
At Alfoorcl December 23, 1685.
The minister of Kennethmount had the exercise, &c
At Alfoord Januarii 27, 1686.
Mr. Alexander Broune had the exercise &c.
The next meeting' is appoynted to be this day moneth. And Mr.
Alexander Mitchell, Schoolmaster at Keig, supplicating the Presbytcrie
to be allowed to appear befor them, and to have a common head, his
desire was granted, and that them DC cultu imaginuui proposed to be
handled by him against the next day.
At Alfoord Februarii 24, 1686.
Mr. Alexander Mitchell had ane specimen De cultu imaginum &c.
[The privie censure next meeting. Anniversary fast observed.]
At Alfoord March 24, (1686).
The minister of Kildrumie had the Coucio ad cleruin &c.
The next inciting, if the Synod hold a dyet, of which we are not
quite certaine, is appoynted to be this day moneth.
Mr. George Sharp, present Schoolmaster at Rhynie, being nominat
by the minister of Alfoord for the attendance of that Schooll, being now
vacant, desyring the Presbyterie (the place being very considerable, and
requyring a person of suitable qualifications for the suitable dischairge
of that trust) that they would appoint ane tryall in order therto, which
accordingly was granted, and the forsaid Mr. George appointed to be in
readines to make ane account therin, at the next Presbyteriall meiting.
Will: Idell, Clerk.
OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 373
At the King's College Abd:, Aprile 21. 1686, this Presbytcrie book
of Alfoord is approven by the Lord Bishop and Synod of Abd:.
Mr. Th: Crevey, Clerk.
Referres of the Diocesian Synod of Abd : holden in Aprylc 1686.
At the King's Colledge Kirk Apryle 21, 1686, Sess : 2°. post
meridiem.
After prayer, the collector of the Centcsima did represent that some
of the bretheren are verie slow in paying in their proportions therof, and
notwithstanding of sevcrall Acts of Synod that have been made, yet
severals have neither subscribed the bond, nor payed anie thing, and
others that have subscribed are deficient in making payment. Wherfor
it is appointed that the Collector shall send forth, with the refers of the
Synod, a list of the deficients within the respective Presbyteries, and the
moderators are ordained to take particular bonds of them for their re
spective proportions, and deliver the same to the Collector, with the verie
first conveniencie ; and if anie shall refuse to give bond as said is, that
they shall be represented to the Lord Bishop and Synod, that they may
be called to account thereanent, and it is further appoynted that such
as shall enter into the ministerie hereafter, shall, befor admission to their
places, give bond for the Centesima.
The ministers' relicts formerlie enrolled for supplie, are appoynted
againe to be supplied out of the Centesima, and each of them is at this
tyme to receive ten merks.
[Harbours of Peterhead and Stonehyven, and bridges of Garden and
Dumbarton, againe recommended to such as have not as yet collected
for the same.]
Apryle 22. Sess : 3°. ante meridiem.
After prayer, severall Presbyteries being removed in order to privie
censure had a good testimonie, and were approven, and the Lord Bishop
did seriouslie recommend to the bretheren to look to themselves, and
their flocks, over which the Lord had made them Overseers, and to give
all diligence in their ministeriall callings, shewing themselves, by the
374 RECORDS OF THE MKKTINO [1686
puritie of their doctrine, innocencie of their lives, by their loynll and
peaceable deportment, as \vorkmen that need not to be ashamed.
The next meeting of the Synod is appoynted to be upon the second
Tuesday of October next 1686.
At the King's College Apryle 21, 1686.
The bretheren appoynted their next meeting.
[Next meeting of Presbyter}'.]
At Alfoord May 12, 1686.
After prayer, Mr. George Sharpe sustained a grammaticall tryall, in
order to his admission to the School of Alfoord, and was approver).
The next meiting is appointed to be at Kearn for the visitation of
that Church, &c.
[No reports from Cabrach and Strathdon, the ministers to be cen
sured.]
At Kearne June 9th, (1686).
The minister of Clat preached, text Jeremiah 3. 15, and, after sermon,
&c.
The minister gave in a list of the elders' names, viz. : George Mackie,
John Rennie, James Gardner, John Gilchrist, James Roger, who being
called did compeir, with such heritors and masters of families as were
present.
(The usual course followed as to minister and elders, and the usual
exhortations given to minister, heritors, ciders, and heads of families — see
Cushnie p. 228.)
It is found there is no mortification in the parish.
That there is no School, the parish not being able to afford a main
tenance for a Schoolmaster.
The fabrick of the Kirk is found to be in sufficient good case.
There are for the use of the communion two cups of silver, table, and
table cloathes, a laver for baptisme, and Kirk Bible.
1 686] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 375
The minister his stipend is not competent, the parish being mean, and
inconsiderable. He hath a competent manse, gleeb, foggage, fewall, fail,
and divvct, with grasse.
At Alfoorcl July 7, 1686.
The minister of Glenbucket exercised, &c.
The next meiting is appointed to be at Strathdone, July 28, for a visi
tation of that church, &c.
[Fast for blessing on harvest]
At Strathdone July 28, (1686.)
The moderator preached instead of the minister of Tullinessell his
vice, &c.
The minister gave in a list of his elders' names as followes, William
Forbes of Skellater, Alexander Forbes of Culquharric, Donald Farquhar-
son, William Allenach, James Allenach, Thomas Michie, Alexander
Greshach, James Strachan, James Law, George Watson, John Forbes,
who being called did compeir, with such of the heritors and masters of
families as were present.
(The usual course followed as to minister and elders, and the usual
exhortations given to minister, heritors, elders, and heads of families — see
Cushnie p. 228.)
It is found there is a mortification of ane hundreth pounds, by Arthur
Forbes of Glencarvie, sufficientlie secured.
That there is a Schoolmaster, and competent provision for him.
That there are tables for the holy communion, two cups of tiun, a
laver for baptisme, and table cloathes.
The minister's Stipend is eight hundreth mcrks, with a sufficient
manse, gleeb, foggage, fewall, faill, and divvct, but no grass.
The fabrick of the Kirk is not sufficientlie repaired, which was repre
sented to the heritors, and they desired to repaire the same.
376 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1686
The minister of Kildrumie reported that the Session book was for
mal 1.
The next inciting is appointed to be at Alfoord August 25, and the
Schoolmaster of Tough to have a grammatical! tryall, and the first Ode
in Horace prescribed to him.
[Fast has been observed.]
At Alfoord August 25, (1686).
The meiting being constitute by prayer, the Schoolmaster of Tough
sustained a tryall in grammar, and was approven.
[The next meiting privy censure to pass.]
At Alfoord September 15, (1686).
The minister of Kearne had the concio ad clerum, &c.
[The privie censure. The sacrament has been observed.]
Wil: Garioch, Clerk.
At the King's Collcdge Kirk October 5, 1686.
This Presbyterie book of Alfoord is approven by the Lord Bishop
and Synod of Aberdeen.
Mr. Th. Crevey, Clk.
Referres of the Synod of Abd: holden in October 1686.
At the King's Colledge Kirk Octobris 5. Sess: 2. post meri
diem.
(NOTE.— The minutes are not entered, part of page 457, and pages 458, 459 being blank.)
At the King's Colledge October 6, 1686.
The brctheren did conveine, and appointed their next inciting to be
at Alfoord, November 3, and the minister of Tough to have the Exercise.
1 687] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 377
At Alfoord November 3, 1686.
The minister of Tough exercised, &c.
The next meiting is to be at Alfoord, December 8, and the School
master of Kildrumie appointed to have a tryall in grammar, and the
sixth Ode of Horace prescribed him.
[Anniversary of the King's birth has been observed.]
At Alfoord December 8, 1686.
After prayer, the Schoolmaster of Kildrumie sustained a grammaticall
tryall, and was approven, and encouraged to go on in his studies.
[Mr. William Young, Schoolmaster at Tough, had trials prescribed.]
&c.
At Alfoord Januar 12, 1687.
The Schoolmaster of Tough had ane Exegesis De transubstantiationet
At Alfoord Februar 16, 1687.
There was no exercise, the minister of Alfoord being at South.
[The fast for the seed tyme has been observed.]
At Alfoord March 9, 1687.
The minister of Alfoord exercised, &c.
[The next meeting privy censure.]
At Alfoord Apryle 6, 1687.
The minister of Lochell did discourse, &c. [Privie censure.]
Wil : Garioch, Clerk.
BBB
3/8 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1687
At the Kind's Collcdgc Kirk Aprilc 19, 1687.
This Presbytcrie book of Alfoord is approvcn by the Lord Bishop
and Synod.
Mr. Th : Crevcy, Clk.
Rcferrcs of the Diocesian Synod of Abd: holden in Aprile 1687.
At the King's Colledge Kirk Aprilc 19, 1687. Sess: 2°. post
meridiem.
After prayer, the Lord Bishop did represent what had come under
consideration in the conference viz : that, after reading of the Act of the
former Synod ancnt the Centesima^ Mr. Adam Sutherland, present Collec
tor, had desired that his accompts might be revised, and seeing he is now
transplanted from being minister at New Machar to be parson of Duffes
in Morrow, that another might be nominat and appointed Collector, and
that, for the more speedy and effectual ingathering of the Centesima from
the deficients, ane Overture had been proposed, that each moderator
might be impowered to receive the same from the respective brcthercn in
their Presbyteries, and deliver it to the generall Collector, and seeing the
moncyes alreadie lent out are in sevcrall hands in small parcels, that it
had been proposed that the soumes might be uplifted, and secured in the
hands of some Society and Corporation, who will pay the yearly curent
therof, which will much facilitate the work of the generall Collector. The
bretheren of the Synod did unanimouslie approve of the said Overtures,
and the moderators of the severall Presbyteries are hereby ordained and
impowered to collect the Centesima from their bretheren, to take bonds,
grant discharges, and use all legall diligence against deficients, as fully as
the generall Collectors have done, or might doe, and that the moderators
shall give ane accompt of their diligence herein at the next Synod anent
the uplifting of the money of the Centesima from the severall hands in
which it lyes, and securing it in one hand as said is.
Anent the electing of a generall Collector, the Lord Bishop having
proposed a list of three of the Synod viz: Dr. Blair, and Dr. George Gar
den, ministers at Abd:, and Mr. John Keith, minister at Old Machar, the
bretheren did, by their unanimous vote, nominat and choose Dr. George
Garden to be generall Collector, and did appoint that where there is any
1687] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 379
of the moncyes of the Centesima which is not sufficicntlie secured, he
shall use legall diligence for uplifting the same, and lending it forth upon
better security; and for revising the late Collector's accompts, the Lord
Bishop and Synod did appoint that the parsones of Bclhelvey, Turray,
Oven, and Kincardine, with Dr. George Garden, and the Clerk of the
Synod, shall meet this nyght, and revise the said accompts, and give in
their report theranent at the next Session.
The Lord Bishop and Synod considering that, although there have
been severall Acts of Synod formerly made, anent the drawing up of a
forme of Catechisme, and some bretheren nominat for that effect, yet
there had nothing been done as yet in order thereunto, and finding that,
for making the thing more feasable, it were fitt that one should be im-
ployed for drawing up a draught, and that he should present the same to
be considered by the rest of the bretheren, did. therfor seriously recom
mend to Dr. Sybbald, Professor, to draw up the said Catechism, and that
Dr. Alidelton, Principal], Dr. Garden, Professor, the ministers of New and
Old Abd :, with the parsones of Banchory and Belhelvey, shall meet, when
Dr. Sybbald shall call them, for revising the samen, and that they give
ane accompt of their diligence at the next Synod.
The Lord Bishop and Synod considering a supplication given in by
one Andrew Bowheir, a French protestant, who, upon the account of the
persecution raised in France against them of the Reformed Religion, was
necessitat to leave that Kingdome, with his estate and fortune therin,
and is at present, with his wife and children, living at Abd:, in a very
mean condition, and seeing the Presbyterie of Abd:, and some others,
have alreadie contribute for his supplie, therfor intreating that order
and warrand may be given for a voluntarie contribution to be gathered
throughout the rest of this Diocess, for supplying him and his family, did
therfor seriously recommend him to the severall bretheren within this
Diocess for receiving a charitable contribution from the respective con
gregations which have not alreadie collected for him, and that the severall
moderators be carefull to gather in the collections from their bretheren,
and send the same, either to the said suppliant, or to Dr. Midelton, Prin-
cipall.
The ministers' relicts formerly inrollcd are again appointed to be
supplyed, and each of them is, at this tyme, to receive ten merks ; as also
(blank) Ross, son to Mr. James Ross, late minister at Tarland, is inrollcd
3^0 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1687
for supplic. Lyk \vayes (blank) Forbes, who is a grand child of Bishop
Patrick Forbes, is inrolled, and they are to be supplied conforme to the
ministers' relicts.
The Presbyterie book of Alfoord is approven, and it is appointed that
the scverall Presbyterie books shall bear accompt of the observation of
the King's birthday, of the publick fasts, and of reading the proclama
tions against leasing making.
Aprilc 20. Sess: 3. ante meridiem.
After prayer, the bretheren appointed to revise Mr. Sutherland's
accompts having mett, gave in report of their diligence viz. : that they
have found that the principall soume given in by Dr. Inncs, in October
last, amounted to three thousand, five hundreth, sixtic and nine libs:, six
teen shillings, and eight pennies Scots, out of which was to be deduced
the soumes contained in three severall bonds, granted by the late minis
ters of Fyvie, Clat, and Leslie respective, amounting in all to the soume
of eightie eight pounds, six shillings, and eight pennies Scots, conforme
to Act of Synod theranent, which being done, there remained of princi
pall soume, three thousand, four hundreth, and eighty one pound, and ten
shillings Scots, and that Mr. Adam Sutherland, Collector forsaid, has
received bonds from three severall ministers for their proportions of the
Centesmia> amounting in all to fiftie two pound Scots, and that he hath
received in readie money from severall persones, the soume of fourtie six
pound, seventeen shilling, and that he hath debursed the soume of fourtie
pound Scots, to ministers' relicts, conforme to Act of Synod theranent, so
that there remained in his hand six pound, seventeen shilling, which he
instanter delivered to Dr. Garden present Collector, so that the bonds,
and six pound seventeen shilling forsaid being added to the former prin
cipall soume, it amounts in all to three thousand, five hundreth and four-
tie pound, seven shilling Scots, and this besides the carents given up in
Dr. Innes accompts which are yet resting, except what Bailie Robertson
and Bailie Gordon have payed for the term of Martinmas last, after mak
ing of which report, the Lord Bishop and Synod did approve of Mr.
Adam Sutherland's accompts, and did exoner him of his haill intromis
sions with the Centesima, and returned to him their heartie thanks for
his pains theranent.
OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 381
The former Act of Synod is herby renewed, appointing that such
women as cloe father children begotten in uncleanness upon decent per-
sones, who were neither delated by them, nor confessed guiltines while
able, shall remove the scandall as adulteresses in sackcloath.
The Lord Bishop and Synod considering the miserable and indigent
condition of the persones after mentioned, thought fitt to recommend
them to the charitable supplie of the severall congregations within this
Diocess, Mr. John Sandison who, being some tyme a minister in Morray,
was necessitat to leave his charge by reason of bodily distemper; Mr.
John Corbat, \vho sometymes taught a Schooll, is now incapacitate
through age and infirmity ; William Chrightone in the parochin of Ach-
reddie ; Gilbert Anderson heavily diseased of the stouny gravell ; Peter
Forbes, in Kincardine, who had his house and goods consumed by acci-
dentall fire.
The severall Presbyteries being removed, in order to privie censure,
had a good testimonie, and were approven, and the Lord Bishop did
seriouslie recommend to all the bretheren to attend carefullie upon their
charge, and that they be diligent in going about the severall duties of
their ministeriall calling, that they preach Christ Jesus, and warn every
man, and teach every man, both in their dutie to God, and to the King,
and that they beware of suggesting to the people needless feares and
jealousies, or raising in their minds any bad opinion of their superiours,
or their actions, or doing anything else which may have a tendencie to
allienating of people's affections from their governours, and so concluded
with prayer.
Deficients to the Centesiina within the Presbyterie of Alfoord are : —
Mr. Andrew Jaffray rests five years.
Mr. Livingston three years and an halfe.
Mr. Thomas Robertson six years.
Mr. John Robertson five years.
Mr. John Alexander has payed nothing.
Mr. Alexander Browne rests five years.
Mr. Alexander Seatone has payed nothing.
Mr. William Johnstoun rests six years.
3§2 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1687
At the King's Colledge, Apryle 20, 1687.
The bretheren did conveine, and appointed their next inciting to be
at Alfoord May 18, and the minister of Strathdone to have the exercise.
At Alfoord May 18, 1687.
The minister of Strathdone exercised, &c.
The next meiting is appointed to be at Cabrach June 15, in order to
a visitation of that Church, &c.
At Cabrach June 15, 1687.
The minister of Tullinessell preached, &c.
The minister gave in a list of the elders' names as foil owes, James
Shyde, William Grant, John Gordon, Alexander Roy, George Gordon,
William Whitson, John Marnoch, who compciring, with such of the heri
tors as were present.
It is found there is no mortification in the parish.
Lykewayes there is no School, the parish not being able to afford any
provision competent for a Schoolmaster.
That the fabrick of the Kirk is not altogether in repaire, which was
represented to the heritors.
That the minister has a sufficient Stipend legallie secured, with all
the other conveniencies, &c.
There are of church utensils, a laver for baptisme, tables, and two
cups for the holy communion.
The Session book not being as yet in readines, it is appointed to
be filled upflrimo quoqiie temp ore.
(The usual course followed as to minister and elders, and the usual
exhortations given to minister, heritors, elders, and heads of families — see
Cushnie p. 228.)
[The next meiting is appointed.]
1687] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 383
At Alfoord July 6, 1687.
There was no exercise, in respect of the minister's absence, \vho is
reported to be very sick
The meiting being constitute by prayer, it is appointed there be a
visitation of the parish of Glenbucket, &c.
[Fast for craving God's blessing on the harvest.]
At Glenbucket July 27, 1687.
The minister of Kearne preached, &c.
[Fast for harvest observed.]
The minister gave in a list of the elders' names as followes, Mr.
William Ferguson, Arthur Nories, Peter Gordon, John Alexander,
Archibald Reid, Jerome Spense, William Marnoke, William Couper,
William Bettie, who compeired, with Adam Gordon of Glenbucket, and
such masters of families as were present.
(The usual course followed as to minister and elders, and the usual
exhortations given to minister, heritors, elders, and heads of families —
see Cushnie p. 228.)
There is no mortification in the parish.
That there is a School, and some tolerable maintenance for a School
master.
That the minister hath a competent Stipend, with other conveniencies
allowed by law.
That the Kirk is sufficientlie repaired.
That there are of utensils for church service, a laver for baptisme, two
tables, two cups with cloathes for the communion.
[Discipline formallic carried on, and the poors' money distribute
duely.]
Anent a petition given in by George Benton, concerning his wages as
officer to the Session, the Presbyterie thought fit to refer the same to the
laird of Glenbucket, and the Session.
[Mr. Alexander Walker, Student of Divinitie, had trials prescribed.]
At Alfoord August 24, 1687.
The minister of Cushnie exercised, &c.
384 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1687
[The next inciting privy censure.]
Mr. Alexander Walker, having presented testimonies from the Pro
fessors of Divinitic, sustained the trial of Languages, Greek and Hebrew,
and was approven.
At Alfoord September 21, 1687.
The minister of Keig had a discourse concerning the duties of minis
ters, &c.
[Act anent the Centesima recommended. The sacrament has been
celebrate. Cabrach, the discipline formally carried on, and the poors'
money distribute.]
Wil: Garioch, Clerk.
King's Colledge Kirk, October 5, 1687.
The Prcsbytrie book of Alfoord is approven by the Lord Bishop and
Synod.
Mr. Th: Crevey, Clk.
Rcferres of the Diocesian Synod of Abd: holden in October 1687.
At the King's Colledge Kirk, Octobris 4th Sess: 2°. post
meridiem.
After prayer, the Lord Bishop did require of the severall moderators
an account of their diligence anent the Centesima, conform to the Act of
the former Synod, and all of them reported that they had requyred such
of their bretheren as were deficient to pay in their proportions therof, and
that they had ingaidged either to pay in the money, or give bond therfor
at this Synod. Wherfor it is appointed that they shall meet with the
gcnerall Collector for clearing that affair once befor the rysing of the
Synod, and the former Act of Synod is hereby renewed, in order to such
as shall as yet be found deficient.
It is appointed by the Lord Bishop and Synod that, upon the two
Lord's dayes immediatly preceeding the publick fasts befor seed time
and harvest, intimation be made by the severall ministers to their respec
tive congregations, anent the observation of the said dyets, that the
1^7] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORT). 385
people being seriously exhorted to their duty, and tymously advertised
of the dyets of these fasts, none of them may pretend ignorance therof,
or do anything unsuitable therunto, and that no minister shall homolgatc
the nonobservance of the forsaid fasts in their people, as they shall be
answerable.
The contribution for repaireing the harbours of Peterhcacl and Stonc-
hyvc is again recommended to such as arc deficient.
The Lord Bishop did represent that Sir Philip Anstruther, of that
ilk, had obtained an Act of Privic Councell, for a voluntary contribution
for repaireing the harbour of Anstruther, Fyfif, and that the copies of the
said Act are already come to his hands to be distribute amongst the bre-
theren of this Diocess, and therfor did recommend to the bretheren to be
carefull in making intimation of the said contribution to their respective
congregations, and gathering in the soume, how soon the coppies shall be
sent forth to them.
Alexander Amidacus, an Italian Professor of the Hebrew Language
o o '
who is lately come to Abd:, and being an aged man in a mean condition,
is recommended to the bretheren for supply, in order to his better in-
couragement in this place.
The Lord Bishop and Synod, considering the mean, and necessitous
condition of Mr. John Irvine, late minister at Cabrach, did againe recom
mend him to the charitable supply of the severall bretheren of this
Diocess, and that they may the more freely and willingly contribute for
him, have therfor forborn to impose any particular quota, but have left
it to their own discretion, as God shall be pleased to move their hearts,
and for the said Mr. John his greater ease and convenience in receiving
what the bretheren shall be pleased to allow him, it is recommended to
the moderators to cause collect the samen, and send it in to Abd: to him.
Octobris 5. Sess: 3°. ante meridiem.
After prayer, the Lord Bishop and Synod considering a representa
tion made anent the Professor of Divinitie's manss, how that Dr. Gardin
hath expended considerably upon the reparation therof, and is going
about for doing of these and other thinges, which at the former Synod
were judged expedient to be done for making it a sufficient lodgings, and
therfor it were just that some course should be fallen upon for refunding
CCC
RECORDS OF TUT, MEF.TINT,
to him the said expenses, did thcrfor condescend that each minister in
this Dioccss should contribute the soume of two incrks and a half against
the next Synod for that effect, and therafter the manss is to be com-
prysed and delivered, as was enacted at the former Synod.
The Lord Bishop and Synod considering the deplorable condition of
the corncs and fruits of the ground, by reason of the great deluge of
raincs which hath fallen out, and constant foggs and mists which have
continued since the harvest began, wherby both the cornes, which are for
the most pairt as yet in the fields, and those which are in the yairds, are
in hazard of being destroyed by rotting and heating, and seeing that Al
mighty God doth, by His present dispensation, call for unfeigned repen
tance and humiliation from all ranks of people, did therfor appoint, that
the Lord's clay come eight dayes shall be observed throughout this Dio
ccss, as a day of solemne supplication, for begging that the Lord would
be pleased of I Us infinite mercy to pitie us in the season of the year, to
avert the present judgement which threatens the land with famine and
scarcity of bread, and to send in such seasonable weather for gathering
in the fruits of the ground as the present exigencie calls for, and that the
people may be the better prepared for the severall duties incumbent to
them at such a time, it is appointed that intimation hereof be made by
the bretheren to the respective congregations the very next Lord's day,
and that the bretheren who are present shall advertise such as are absent
of this appointment, how soon they go home.
[Contributions recommended. Privy censure of the Presbyteries.]
At the King's Colledge October 5, 1687.
[Next meiting to be at Alfoord.]
At Alfoord November 2, 1687.
The meiting being constitute by prayer, Mr. Alexander Walker de
livered his Exegesis De pur gator io^ &c.
Anent the proclamation against leesing making, and the ordinance
for a solemne supplication, it is found the first has been intimate, and the
second duely observed by all present.
l688] OF THE EXERCISE OK ALFOKU 387
At Alfoord November 3, 1687.
Mr. Alexander Walker sustained the questionarie tryall, &c.
At Alfoord Januar 4, 1688.
Mr. Alexander Walker exercised, &c.
Next inciting is appointed to be this day moneth, and Mr. Robert
Milne, preacher of the Gospell, being recommended by our Ordinarie to
the bretheren of this Exercise, for passing of his tryals, in order to his
setlement in the ministrie at the Church of Forbes, in whose favour his
Lordship had received a presentation from the Master of Forbes, un
doubted patron thereof, is appointed to sustaine the tryall of Languages,
Greek and Hebrew, at the next inciting, and likewise Mr. Alexander
Walker to have a popular sermon upon I Timothy 4. 8.
At Alfoord Februar i, 1688.
Mr. Alexander Walker had a popular sermon and was approven in
this, and all other his tryals, and appointed to have a recommendation to
the Lord Bishop, to have a licence to preach the gospell publicklie.
Mr. Robert Milne sustained likewise the tryall of Languages.
At Alfoord Februar 29, 1688.
Mr. Robert Milne sustained the questionarie tryall, &c.
The Moderator having enquyred the sevcrall bretheren if they had
observed the fast for the seed tyme, and the publick thanksgiving for the
Queen's being with child, declared they had cluely observed them both.
RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1688
At Alfoorcl March 21, 1688.
Mr. Robert Milne delivered his Exegesis DC peccato originali> &c.
[Next meeting privie censure.]
At Alfoorcl Aprylc 4, 1688.
The minister of Tullinessell had a discourse, &c. Mr. Robert Milne
exercised upon I Cor. 3. 5, and after prayer, was approver!.
[The privy censure passed upon the respective brethren.]
The minister of Tough proposed that Mr. William Young, School
master there, should have allowance to enter tryalls for opening his
mouth, in order wherunto the ministers of Alfoord and Keig were
recommended by the Presbytcrie to have previous conference with him,
and make report.
Wil: Garioch, Clerk.
At King's Colledge Kirk, Aprile 18, 1688.
[Presbyterie book of Alfoord approven.]
Mr. Th : Crevey, Clk : (of Synod.)
Referrs of the Diocesian Synod of Abel : holden in Aprile 1688.
At King's College Kirk, Aprile 17. 1688. Sess : 2°. post
meridiem.
After prayer, the Lord Bishop did represent that, in the Conference,
Dr. Garden having given in his accounts of the Centesiina during his intro
missions the last year, he had earnestly desired that his accompts might
be revised, and he exonered of that charge, since he could not any longer
wait upon it ; wherupon it had been recommended to Dr. Innes, Dr.
Ross, and Dr. Blair, the parsones of Kincardin and Oyen, to meet this
night with the Collector forsaid and Clerk of the Synod, for revising the
1688] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 389
said accounts, and giving in the report to the Synod to-morrow, and that
they were to think upon the chooseing another Collector against that
time.
The Lord Bishop did, in like manner, represent that the matter
anent the Professor of Divinitie his manse, having come under considera
tion in the Conference, and it having been found that, although there had
been an Act past at the last Synod, wherby the brethren were willing to
burthen themselves in two merks and anc halfe each of them, for making
up to the Professor what expense he had been at in repairing the said
manse, and for doing some other small things, which, at the last visita
tion therof, had been judged expedient to be done for making it a
sufficient lodging, yet there had been nothing of the money appointed for
the end forsaid as yet collected, and therefor it is recommended to the
moderators of the respective Presbyteries, to call the brethereh this
night, and that they collect the said two merks and a halfe from each
of them, and make report at the next session.
Alexander Amidaeus, Hebrew Professor, is again recommended for
supply to such as have not supplied him.
It is seriously recommended to the severall Presbyteries to be diligent
in going about the visitation of kirks within their respective bounds this
summer, and that particular visitationes be kept at the kirks of such
bretheren as are frequentlie absent from Presbyteries or Synods, and that
they call them to ane account anent the Centesima, and concerning the
Clerks of Synod and Presbyteries their dues, and the paying such other
things as have been imposed by Act of Synod, and insert account of
their diligence hereanent in the Presbyterie books.
Aprilis 18. Sess : 3°. ante meridiem.
The bretheren appointed to revise Dr. Garden's accounts of the
Centesima, gave in their report as follows, viz. That the summe of his
wholl charge amounts to four thousand and nynety seven pounds, eleven
shillings, four pennies Scots, and the wholl summc of his discharge
amounts to four thousand fourtie eight pounds, two shillings Scots ; so
that the charge exceeds the discharge in fourtie nyne pounds, nyne
shillings, and four pennies Scots, which the Compter is to deliver to the
succeeding Collector ; and it is found that the summe which was given
390 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1688
up of free money, when Dr. Garden entered Collector, was three thousand
five hundred and fourtie pounds, seven shillings, Scots, and it is at
present (all cleburscments to ministers' relicts and children being
defalcate) four thousand pounds, lacking five shillings, and this besides
what he is to give in as the balance of his accompts, so that it is in
creased, since Dr. Garden's intromission thcnvith, in the summe of four
hundred and threescore pounds, two shillings Scots. After making of
which report, the Lord Bishop did, in name of the Synod, return their
hearty thanks to Dr. Garden for his paines in this affair, did approve his
accounts, and he is hereby discharged of his wholl intromissions therwith.
The moderators of the respective Presbyteries report, that, con forme to
appointment yesternight, they had called the bretheren together for pay
ing in what was condescended upon for repairing the Professor's manse
and that they were all ready to deliver the same presentlie, but with
this speciall proviso, that seeing it was declared by those who were ap
pointed to visit the said manse the former year, that if the walls were
pinned, and some other little things done, which the Professor desyred
then might be done, the expense wherof would amount to fiftie merks
Scots, the said manse would be a sufficient lodging, and seeing they
were willing to advance the forsaid fiftie merks for making it sufficient,
by and attour the refounding of what had been formerly expended upon
it by the Professor, that he shall be oblidged, during his incumbencie, to
maintaine the said manse, and to leave it in as good condition at his re-
movall as it is at present, \vhich the Professor promised to doe, and did
exoner the Synod of any further expenses for repairing the said manse,
unless the roofe, or any other part of that lodging should happen to fall,
or decay through length of time, or any other casualitie not occasioned
by his neglect, and which he could not possibly prevent. Wherfor it is
ordained that such of the money forsaid, as is in readines to be delivered,
be given up into the hands of the Clerk of the Synod, who is to be
accountable therfor, and that the moderators shall requyrc of such of the
bretheren as shall be deficient at this time, their proportion of the said
money, how soon they go home, and send it in with all diligence to the
Clerk of the Synod, as said is.
The matter anent Mr. John Irvine his supplie coming under the con
sideration of the Lord Bishop and Synod, and it being put to the free
vote of the Synod, what they would think fitt to allow him, they did
OF TIIK KXKRCISF OF ALFORD. 39!
unanimouslie condescend to give him a fourteen pence at each Synod
from each minister, and it is recommended to the moderators to rcquyre
the bretheren to pay the said fourteen pence to the said Mr. John in
time coming.
Concerning the Presbytcrie book of Alfoord. It being found that
there were some things insert thcrin, anent a young man's tryals, which
both the moderator and brcthcren of the Prcsbyterie had disowned as
done by them, and seeing it is declared to be only the Clerk's action,
therfor it is recommended to the moderator and Presbyterie to call the
Clerk to account thcranent, and censure him therfor, and otherwaycs the
book is approven.
The next melting of the Synod is appointed to be upon the first
Tuesday of October next.
The sevcrall Presbyteries being removed, in order to privie censure,
had a good testimonie, and were approven, and the moderators continued
as formerly, and the Lord Bishop did seriously exhort all the bretheren
to take heed to themselves, and to the flock of God committed to their
charge, and that both in their doctrine and behaviour in private and in
publick they shew themselves examples of piety toward God, loyaltie to
the King, and purity in the eyes of all men, and that, conforme to former
Acts of Synod, they shall conclude their publick prayers with the Lord's
prayer, and their publick praises with the doxologie, and that, when chil
dren are presented to baptisme, there be a publick rehearseall made of
the Christian faith, as the same is contained in the Apostolick Creed, that
they be carefull to administrat the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper, at
least once a year, taking the most convenient time for it, viz: at Easter, if
they can possiblic doc it ; as also did recommend to all the bretheren to
give a good example to the people in all places where they come, in
using such a reverent and grave behaviour while they arc about the pub-
lick worship and service of God, either in time of hearing or preaching
the Word, as the message of God, and respect due to the place of His
publick worship call for, and finallie concluded with prayer.
Names of such bretheren within the Prcsbyterie of Alfoord as are
resting their two mcrks and a halfc for the Professor's house viz. : Mr.
John Alexander at Kildrummie, Mr. Alexander Browne at Cabrach, Mr
John Robertson at Strathdone, Mr. William Garioch at Kennethmount
and the minister of Forbes,
392 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [l6S8
Deficients in Ccntcsima in Alfoord.
Mr. Andrew Livingston rests three years and anc halfe.
Mr. Andrew J affray, fyvc j'cars.
Mr. Thomas Robertson, six years
Mr. John Alexander has payed nothing.
Mr. Alexander Seatone has payed nothing.
At the King's Colledge Aprylc 18, 1688.
The bretheren did meet, and appointed their next dyct to be at
Alfoord, May 9, and Mr. Robert Milne to have a popular sermon upon
Philippians 2. 9, 10.
At Alfoord May 9, 1688.
Mr. Robert Milne preached &c., and, after prayer, was not unani
mously approven, in regard they judged it too Scholastick, but by others
sustained as a competent tryall.
The next meeting is appointed to be May 30, 1688, and the ministers
of Alfoord and Keig, who were appointed to conferre privately with Mr.
William Young, having judged him fitt to be recommended, the tryall of
the Languages was prescribed unto him, to witt, the fourth psalme in
Hebrew, and the Greek ad aperturam.
Concerning the referrs of Towie, Cushnie, Strathdone, Glenbucket,
Cabrach, Lochell, and Tullinessell, no report, in regard of the respective
ministers their absence, who were notwithstanding excused, by reason of
the storminess of the weather, and the unpassibleness of the waters.
At Alfoord May 30, 1688.
Mr. William Young sustained the tryall of Languages, and was
approven.
The next meiting is appointed to be this day fyve weeks, July 4, at
Kildrummie, for a visitation of that Church, &c,
1 688] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD.
393
Mr. John Leslie, Schoolmaster at Towie, was established Clerk to the
Presbyterie, upon the minister of Kcnncthmount his demission, who was
formerly in that office.
At Kildrummic July 4, 1688.
The minister of Kenethmont preached &c
The minister gave in a list of the ciders' names as followers, Alexander
Kcrr, William and John Conans, George Frazer, Patrick Watt, John
Dunne, John Esson, who being called, compeired with such of the
heritors and masters of families as were present.
(The usual course followed as to minister and elders, and the usual
exhortations given to minister, heritors, elders, and heads of families-
see Cushnie p. 228.)
There is no considerable mortification in the parish.
There is a School and a maintenance for a Schoolmaster, and the
Schoolmaster approven of.
That the minister hath a competent Stipend, with other conveniences
suitable.
That the Kirk is in sufficient repair, and provided of these utensils
viz. : Communion tables and two cups, a laver for baptisme, and a laro-c
Bible.
The severall brethercn being interrogate if they had observed the
thanksgiving for the prince his birth, all present declared that they had
carefullie observed it.
Anent the Act against leasing making, it being enquyrcd whether it
had been published, as injoyned by the Act of his Majestie's Secret
Counccll, it was answered affirmatively.
The next inciting to be at Alfoord July 25, and Mr. William Young
to sustain the questionarie tryall.
At Alfoord July 25, 1688.
Mr. William Young sustained the questionarie tryall, and was approven.
The next meeting is appointed to be at Alfoord August 22, and Mr.
DDD
394 RECORDS OF THE MEETING [1688
William Young to have anc Exegesis DC antJioritate Scriptnrac. The
which dyet was intended by the Presbyterie for a visitation of the Kirk
of Clatt, but in regard that the minister informed that his manse was not
in repair, and that therby lie could not convenientlie sustain it, it was
deferred.
[Annual fast observed.]
It was inquyred of the brethcren who were absent the former dyet, if
they had intimate the proclamation against leasing making, and observed
the thanksgiving for the prince his birth, who declared they had duely
observed the same.
At Alfoord August 22, 1688.
Mr. William Young delivered an Exegesis DC autJioritatc Scripturae,
and was approven.
[Next meeting privy censure.]
At Alfoord September 19, 1688.
The minister of Tough had a discourse relating to the conscionable
and faithfull discharge of ministerial duties, &c.
[Privy censure.]
The referrs of the late Dioccsian Synod being read for the second
time, and the referrs therin mentioned that did concern this our Presby
terie were taken into consideration as followes viz. : That concerning the
Ccntcsima it was particularly recommended to such as were deficient, that
they should take in the money with them at the ensuing Synod, and de
liver the same unto the Collector appointed by the Lord Bishop and
Synod for receiving of the same, or satisfic him by secureing him ther-
anent, whose names we need not here make publick mention of, for that
they are well enough known unto him.
As also, as to that other referre anent the contribution for reparation
of the manse belonging to the Professor of Theologie in Old Abd:, it was
seriouslic recommended to all them who had not been present at the for
mer Synod, and so consequentlie deficient of their severall proportions
1 688] OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD. 395
condesended upon, that they should punctuallie be in readines to pay it
up at this time, which they engaged to doe.
And moreover, ancnt that other refcrrc appointing the former Clerk
of our Presbyterie his censure mentioned in the forsaid referre, the Pres-
byterie did injoyne him to make a publick acknowledgement of his fault,
which he declined to doe, in regard that the charge against him was, as to
him, res judicata, and also for that he had no probation led against him,
nor was he convict of any malversation by his own confession, and thcr-
for is well satisfied to referre himselfe unto the sentence of the Lord
Bishop and Synod.
The referre made in favour of Mr. John Irvine his supplie is seriouslie
recommended to the severall bretheren, and that he be no further post
poned therin.
As also the two other referres, the one concerning Amidaeus his
supplie by those who have not supplied him formerly, and the other
concerning the punctuall payment of the Clerks of Synod and Presby
teries their dues.
[Sacrament of the Lord's Supper observed. Session register of the
Church of Kildrumie.]
The next meeting is appointed to be October the 3'', at the King's
Colledge in Old Abel:.
Absent this day, the moderator, being under his former indisposition
and inabilitie for to travell, and the minister of Clatt, upon whom the
privie censure is ordered to passe, upon their next appearance at the
Presbiterie.
Jo : Leslie, Clerk to the Presbiterie.
At the King's Colledge Kirk, October 2, 1688.
This Presbiterie book of Alfoord is approven by the Lord Bishop and
Synod of Aberdeen.
Mr. Th: Crevey, Clk.
Notes
READER. NOTE i, PAGE i.
THE office of reader seems to have had its origin in the Roman Catholic Church ;
at least a similar office — that of lector — existed in that Church previous to the
Reformation. It arose in this way. After the invention of printing, copies of the
Scriptures were multiplied. Very few, however, could read them for themselves.
Accordingly, a person called the lector 'was appointed to read portions of the Bible
to the people in Church.
The reader in the Presbyterian Church had somewhat similar origin and
duties. It was not one of the Ecclesiastical Orders of the Scotch Reformed
Church, but was devised to meet a want. At the Reformation, and for many
years afterwards, there was a great scarcity of ministers. "In 1567 there were
only 257 ministers assisted by 151 exhorters, and 455 readers; and in 1574 the
numbers had increased to 289 ministers and 715 readers." The reader was thus
a necessity. Frequently one minister had charge of several parishes with a reader
in each. The " First Book of Discipline," drawn up by Knox, &c., and which
contains what we may call the Ecclesiastical Polity of the Scotch Reformers,
enacted that " in the Churches where no minister can be had presently, must be
appointed the most apt men that distinctly can read the Common Prayers and
the Scriptures." In 1580, when ministers were more numerous, the General
Assembly took into consideration " qwhither readers should be sufferit to con-
tinow," and came to the conclusion that " so many as beis sound and travellit in
reading be the space of twa yeares, and hes not profited that they are able to be
pastores, and to preach the Word of God, shall be deposit from the reading."
Next year, in 1581, the office was abolished, the Assembly decreeing that "in no
tymes comeing any reader be admitted to the office of reader be any having
power within the Kirk." The Act, however, was not strictly enforced, for now
and then afterwards we meet with instances of the appointment of readers, or
application for their appointment.
In 1662, when Episcopacy again became the Established Church, the office
of reader was revived, and continued throughout the whole Episcopal period.
After the Revolution of 1688 and the restoration of Presbytery, the office
gradually fell into disuse, though in some districts of the Highlands, it is said to
have lingered on to a period not very remote.
NOTKS.
The duties of the reader were various. At the first meeting of the Diocesan
Synod of Aberdeen after the Restoration — held 2ist October, 1662 — "it was
enaeted by the Bishop, with consent of the brethren of the Synod, that there
shall be readers of the Scriptures in every congregation." The reader required to
be authorised by the .Bishop, and the Synod was to take notice "of his ability
and qualification for the exercise of reading.'' To mention some of his duties, he
was to read the Scriptures before the morning and evening services, to keep
Books of baptisms, marriages, and burials, to receive the names and proclaim the
banns, to hear persons about to be married, "rehearse the Lord's Prayer, the
Beleve, and the Commandments of God." On the other hand, he was not to
pronounce the blessing — the minister was to do that ; on week-days he might
pronounce it, and on .Sabbath days if the minister was necessarily absent, and
though in prayer he used only the Lord's Prayer he was not to be censured.
Dr. Sprott, in his "Introduction to the Book of Common Order," thus
describes the reader's service in Church : — "The bell having been rung an hour
before was rung the second time at 8 o'clock for the readers service. The con
gregation then assembled, and engaged for a little in private devotion. The
reader took his place at the ' lectern,' read the Common Prayers, and in some
Churches the Decalogue and Creed. He then gave out large portions of the
Psalter, the singing of which was concluded with the Gloria Fatri, and next read
chapters from the Old and New Testaments, going through in order any Book
that was begun, as required by the ' First Book of Discipline.' After an hour
thus spent the bell rang the third time, and the minister entered the pulpit," and
conducted the minister's service. As we have already indicated, the office of
reader in the Scottish Churches has long ceased.
LITURGY IN OLD PSALM BOOK. NOTE 2, PACK j.
This was the "Book of Common Order," often called " Knox's Liturgy."
After Knox's return to Scotland in 1559, the "Book of Geneva," drawn up for
the Scotch congregations in Geneva, seems to have been in use in the Scotch
Reformed Church. Between 1562 and 1564 this Book was revised, new prayers
added, and the psalter completed. The " Book of Geneva " thus revised consti
tutes the "Book of Common Order." The General Assembly in 1564 ordained
that " every minister, exhorter, and reader shall have one of the Psalm Books
lately printed in Edinburgh, and use the order contained therein in prayers,
marriages, and administration of the Sacraments." This Psalm Book was just the
" Book of Common Order." It was used in the worship of the Scotch Church
alike under " Presbytery " and " Episcopacy " from 1564 to 1645. At this latter
NOTES.
399
date the "Westminster Directory," the present law of the Scottish Church as
to worship, was adopted. But in 1662, when Episcopacy was restored, the
"Westminster Directory" was forbidden, and the "Liturgy in the old I'salm
Hook " enjoined. Still, though the general practice was as stated above, there is
little doubt that, both in Presbyterian and Episcopal times, there were ministers
who preferred and used— some parti)-, some altogether— extemporaneous prayers.
THANKSGIVING ON 5th NOVEMBER. NOTE 3, PAGE 2.
The reference is to the "Gunpowder Plot." The account generally given of
the " Plot " is this. The Catholics disappointed that James, on his accession to
the throne of England, did not favour their party, as his mother, Queen Mary
had done, formed a conspiracy to destroy the King, Lords, and Commons. A
cellar beneath the House of Lords was hired. In it were stored barrels of gun
powder and other articles. November the 5th, 1605, was the day fixed for the
explosion. A few days previously, however, the plot was discovered through a
hint given in an anonymous letter. The vaults were searched, and one, Guy
Eawkes, a Spanish officer, was caught in the very act of preparing the matches
for the explosion. The plot was thus frustrated, and for long the 5th of
November was observed throughout the kingdom, as a day of thanksgiving for
the discovery of the plot, and the escape of the king, &c. Rightly or wrongly,
the Catholics were regarded as connected with the dreadful crime contemplated!
Severest penal laws were enacted against them, and often enforced with but little
regard to justice or to guilt. To be a " papist " was enough to create suspicion,
and expose to trouble, if not to something worse. No doubt in those days —and
not in them alone— the party, or at least the Church party, out of power, was
prone enough to plan and plot for the overthrow of its adversaries. Not very
scrupulous was it in trying to help its case by making the most of anything that
would excite suspicion against the other. And so, after all, papists and protes-
tants were probably not so black as by each other they are painted. Not all said
by either can be accepted as gospel.
As regards the Gunpowder Plot, it is right to add that a work has lately been
published strongly denying any general connection of the Catholics with the plot, if
plot there were at all. The book is by one leather Gerard. Its title is " What
was the Gunpowder Plot ? " Father Gerard's work has been criticised by several
writers, and its conclusions disputed. The fullest and at the same time the
fairest reply is one just published (1897) under the title " What Gunpowder Hot
was," by Dr. Samuel Rawson Gardiner. The result is to leave the question very
much as it was before Father Gerard's publication.
400 NOTKS.
DIRECTORY OF THE LATE ILI.F.OAL ASSEMIU.Y. NOTE 4, PACE 2.
The " illegal Assembly " was the Westminster Assembly. The " Directory "
to be laid aside was the " Directory for the Public Worship of God" drawn up
by that Assembly in 1644. The "Directory" was sanctioned by the General
Assembly of 1645 on February the 3rd, and on the 6th was ratified by the
Scottish Parliament, and ordered to be observed by all ministers in the kingdom.
After its sanction by Parliament and the General Assembly, it, in a great measure,
superseded the " Book of Common Order." From 1645 to the present day, it
has been the "Directory for Worship" in the Scottish Presbyterian Church,
though many of its requirements are not now acted on. ."But although drawn up
with the intention of securing " happy unity and uniformity in religion amongst
the. kirks of Christ in these three kingdoms" it soon and signally failed in this.
Episcopalians and Independents discarded it. And in Scotland, in 1662, only
seventeen years after its sanction by Parliament and Assembly, the Diocesan
Synods, on the re-establishment of Episcopacy, ordered it to be " layd assyd, and
not made use of in tyme coming." It thus came to be the Directory for the
Presbyterians alone.
PAPISTS. NOTE 5, PAGE 2.
After the Reformation severe measures were taken against the Catholics.
They were suspected of being constantly engaged in plotting against Church and
State. In those days the Churches had no idea of religious toleration. The
persecuted in turn became the persecutors. Roman Catholics, Episcopalians,
Presbyterians, were equally intolerant, equally prone to persecute when they had
the power. So the abolition of Presbyterianism at the Restoration brought no
relief to the Roman Catholics. The only thing in their favour was, that those in
power were generally so engrossed in persecuting the Presbyterians that they had
not much time to attend to the Catholics, whom they equally hated and dreaded.
In Aberdeenshire, and other parts around, there was still a considerable number
of Catholics. Doubtless, in the Alford Presbytery and neighbouring district, this
was due in no small measure to the influence of the Marquis of Huntly, who all
through remained a keen adherent of popery, and who is said to have boasted
that he could set up the mass in three counties. It is noticeable that very often
when the names of those accused of popery are mentioned there is a " Gordon "
among them, e. g. in Kennethmont, Gordon of Cults, Gordon of Mosstown ; in
Auchindoir, Gordon of Craig ; in Tullynessle, Gordon of Terpersie ; in Keig,
NOTES.
4OI
Gordon of Pittendreigh. In October 1662, at the very first meeting of the Synod
of Aberdeen, severe measures were taken against Roman Catholics. Ministers
were enjoined to take particular notice of papists in their parishes, and to send
their names to the Bishop that they may be sent to his Majesty's Privy Council.
No one was to " recept seminarie priests and Jesuits." At Synod, October 1663,
because "some gentlemen and persones of qualitie had sent their children beyond
the seas to be educated in popishe universities," means were to be adopted to
prevent this in future, to restrain the "spreading leprosie of poperie," and a " solid
way taken for training up the children in the Protestant religion, especially the
young Lord, the Marquis of Huntly, and that the children already sent abroad be
reduced," (p. 29). Again and again we find similar enactments. " In this respect
(persecution of Roman Catholics) Episcopacy abated nothing of the fervour of
Presbytery. It was equally zealous and equally intolerant." (Stephen II., 210.)
PERSONS TO HAVE OVERSIGHT OF THE PEOPLE. (KIRK SESSION)
NOTE 6, PAGE 3.
This was just the Kirk-Session,, though not so-called in Episcopal times.
Synod 1662 enacted "that every minister within this diocie male choice of so
many within his parioch, of the most able, qualified, and understanding persons
to have ane inspection and oversight of the people, &c." (p. 3.) It is from the
"First and Second Books of Discipline " (1560 and 1581) we get the constitution
of the Presbyterian Church. One of the Ecclesiastical Assemblies was the Con
gregational Assembly, which came to be called by the better known name of the
Kirk-Session. The office and duties of elders as given there are almost identical
with what are given in our "Record." They were to be " men of best knowledge
in God's Word, and cleanest life, men faithful and of most honest conversation
that could be found in the Church." They were to "assist the minister in all the
public affairs of the Kirk, delate to him scandals," &c. At first, elders were
appointed only for a year, "lest they should presume too much." They might,
however, be re-appointed. "No stipend was to be assigned them for their
labours, which were not deemed to be such as to withdraw them from their usual
employments." During the Episcopal period there was no representation of the
eldership in the Presbytery or Synod. With this exception, the eldership, though
Presbyterian in its origin, yet continued in full operation in the Episcopal Church
in Scotland from 1662-1688.
EEE
402 NOTES.
EXCOMMUNICATION. NOTE 7, PAGE 3.
There were two kinds of excommunication, " Lesser " and " Greater." Lesser
excommunication was simply suspension from Church privileges. If the offence
was acknowledged, and submission to discipline made, then, after undergoing
sufficient penalty, the offender was restored. But if he did not submit— was
" contumacious " — the " process " went on before the Session, was reported to
the Presbytery, sometimes also to the Synod, and instructions received as to
further procedure. The next steps were that the delinquent was cited by name
three several Sabbaths from the pulpit of the parish of his residence, but if he
absconded, or his residence was not known, from all the pulpits of the Presbytery ;
this failing, he was prayed for publicly three several times, and the sanction of
the Bishop having been obtained, the sentence of greater excommunication was
pronounced against him. Some of the offences or crimes for which this latter
sentence was inflicted were murder, adultery, refusing to abjure popery and attend
the parish Churches, witchcraft, charming, &c. The sentence was a terrible one,
and if literally carried out must have been almost unbearable to the excommuni
cated. For instance, he was not allowed to reside in another parish, and in his
own, people were not to receive him into their houses or have any intercourse
with him, those doing so might themselves be excommunicated. On one occasion
a minister was rebuked by his Presbytery for asking a blessing before supper when
an excommunicated person was present. The law of the Church was, that no
parishioner was to " haunt or keep company " with an excommunicated person.
(For " Forms of excommunication " see pp. 126, 127.)
LICENSING YOUNG MEN. NOTE 8, PAGE 3.
The course of study for the ministry was, we may say, similar to what it is at
present in our Presbyterian Churches. Students attended first the Arts Classes,
then a four years' course of Divinity. Each year they had to appear before the
Presbytery to be tested on the progress they were making in their studies. Before
receiving licence to preach, they had to undergo " trials," the name still used.
The " trials " consisted of (i) " Questionary trials," an examination in Philosophy,
&c. ; (2) a " Popular Sermon " ; (3) trials in the " Languages," Greek and
Hebrew; (4) a " Common Head of Controversy," a discussion in Latin on some
subject prescribed by the Presbytery, such as De formali ratione justificationis,
De visibilitate Ecdesiae, De efficacia gratiae ; (5) an " Exercise and Addition," a
critical discourse on some portion of the Hebrew of the Old Testament ; (6) an
"Exegesis" or "Critical Discourse" of some portion of the Greek of the New
NOTES. 403
Testament. If the student passed his trials satisfactorily he was "censured and
approven," and got a letter of recommendation to the Bishop that he might be
licensed to preach — " his mouth opened." Sometimes the Presbytery was not
satisfied with the appearance made. On page 280 we have an instance of this.
The young man was ordered to study Hebrew. It was also enacted (p. 176) that
if the student did not know " positive and polemical Divinity," the trials were
not to go on. When the probationer got a presentation to a parish, "trials"
similar to those for licence had again to be gone through, and if approven he got
a testimonial to the Bishop that he might receive ordination ; then he was sent
back to the Presbytery to receive institution, /. e. admission to the charge.
From the above, it will be seen that the Presbytery tried the young men and
instituted them after ordination, but that the Bishop licensed and ordained them.
If the Bishop was out of the country, or the See vacant, another Bishop ordained,
e.g. Mr. John Mair was ordained by the Bishop of Edinburgh (p. u). In
similar circumstances the Presbytery was allowed to licence ; e.g. Mr. Burnet was
licensed by the Presbytery (p. 36). But when the Presbytery licensed, the parties
had afterwards to go to the Bishop to get his approval of what had been done.
Thus licence or ordination by the Presbytery when authorised was not regarded
as invalid, but rather as defective, wanting something which Episcopal ordination
was supposed to confer.
BURSARS. NOTE 9, PAGE 4.
It was long the custom for the Presbyteries to support a young man studying
for the Church. Generally each Presbytery had its bursar, though occasionally
two united to maintain one, and nominated the bursar alternately. Each con
gregation contributed so much. As we find from our " Record" as well as the
Records of other Presbyteries and Synods, there were often difficulties in getting
payment made to the young men. Frequently the bursars complain of arrears
being due to them, and stringent measures had to be taken to enforce payment.
Sometimes the bursars got leave to " persue by law the persones deficient for
payment." Occasionally the penalties exacted from offenders were ordered to be
produced to the Presbytery, in order that payment of what was owing to the bur
sar might be made. The object of this bursary system was to educate for the
ministry young men of "pregnant pairts" who themselves had not the means. It
would appear, however, that it was not always such that got the bursaries. In the
Register of the Synod of Dunblane (p. 18 1), it is stated that a supplication anent
404 NOT MS.
this was presented to the Bishop and Synod, and it was enacted that " persones
who were able by themselves and their parents to stay there (at College) without
the benefit of a bursary, were not to have the right, where others, especiallie
ministers' sons, were capable of the benefit."
MINISTERS .SINCE 1649. NOTK 10, PAGE 6.
The reference is to the patronage of Churches. Since the Reformation
various changes had taken place in regard to this. Speaking generally, we may
say that when Presbytery prevailed, the tendency was to restrict or abolish
patronage ; when Episcopacy was in power, to restore it. In 1638, when Presby
tery gained the ascendancy, patrons in a great measure lost their power, though
it was not until 1649 that patronage was abolished by law. In that year Parlia
ment condemned patronage " as an evil under which the Lord's people had long
groaned, as having no warrant in the Word of God, as a popish
custom brought into the Church in the time of ignorance and superstition."
Strong terms these — too strong to last. For many who were keenest against
patronage that year, were as keen for its restoration in 1663. The General
Assembly of 1649 followed up what Parliament had done, by enacting that the
Kirk-Session of each congregation was to elect the minister, who, if approved by
the congregation, was to be tried and admitted by the Presbytery, but that should
a majority of the congregation dissent, the Presbytery were to appoint a new
election to be made, unless the reasons of dissent were grounded in causeless
prejudice. It is this abolition of patronage by Parliament and General Assembly
that is referred to in the " Record." All ministers settled under the Act of 1649
were either to apply to and receive presentation from their patrons, and collation
(i. e. admission to the pastoral charge of the parish and congregation) from their
Bishops, or lose their livings. Observe there was no re-ordination, the ordination
by Presbytery was accepted, considered valid, The great object of this Act of
1662 seems to have been to get the authority of Bishops acknowledged. No
minister could retain his living " unless he have collatione from the Bishope "
(p. 6), thus acknowledging to the fullest extent the Bishop's authority. The
result was that sooner than comply with what they believed to be an unrighteous
Act, some three hundred ministers left their manses and livings. In the South
and West of Scotland the majority of ministers did so. In Aberdeenshire nearly
all conformed. In Alford Presbytery all seem to have conformed.
NOTES. 405
PRIVY CKNSURKS. NOTE u, PAGES 26, 27.
Privy censure has been defined as " a species of Church discipline in which
Presbyteries, or the members of Presbyteries sat in judgement upon themselves."
When or why it originated we have not been able to discover. But it long pre
vailed in the Scotch Church both in the Presbyterian and Episcopal periods. All
the ministers had to undergo it once a year. On the day appointed for " privy
censure " each minister in turn was questioned as to the state of his parish, his
discharge of duty, how often he preached, visited his parish, catechized the people,
dispensed the communion, administered discipline, in short, everything a minister
was expected to be and do. When this questioning was finished, he was asked to
retire — " was removed " — and the brethren were questioned regarding him, and
every inquiry having been made, approval or censure was resolved on. He was
then called in, and the approval or condemnation communicated to him. Such
proceedings are apt to become a mere form. On the whole, however, the work
appears to have been gone about faithfully and honestly. The brethren were
often by no means sparing of each other, and in no way backward in taking up
and carrying on a case against one of their number who was in fault ; as witness
the cases of John Irving of Cabrach, who was at length deposed ; Robert Chein
of Kennethmont, for corn-leading on Sunday, and whose wife was publicly
rebuked in Church for her part in the doings ; and William Davidson of
Auchindoir, who was found to be too old and infirm for parish work.
Synods had also " a diet for privy censures." Each Presbytery was " removed "
in turn, and the other Presbyteries questioned about the one removed — any
failure in duty, anything against it, and the like. Such " privy censures " have
long been a thing of the past. Some Synods still have what is called Privy
Censures. The diet, however, is mainly for business that it is thought desirable
to take in private, a thing very different from what " privy censures " once were — •
no removing and censuring of Presbyteries. Indeed the very name, as well as the
thing itself, is all but obsolete.
REV. NATHANAEL MARTIN. NOTE 12, PAGE 28.
From Scott's " Fasti," we learn that Mr. Martin was minister of Aberdour,
from which he was translated to Peterhead. In 1651 he attached himself to the
Protesters, the extreme party among the Presbyterians. After the re-establishment
of Episcopacy in 1662, he was deprived of his charge for not conforming. On
this he removed to Turriff, taking with him the Minute Book of the Presbytery of
406 NOTES.
Deer. It is the carrying away of this book and the steps taken to recover it to
which reference is made. The case was reported to the Privy Council, and the
book was at last restored. In July, 1671, a decree was passed against Mr. Martin
and others for holding Conventicles ("Fasti," 622 and 633). Wodrow (I., 329)
gives Mr. Martin as one of the ministers in the Presbytery of Deer who did not
conform in 1663.
ABERDEEN DOCTORS. NOTE 13, PAGE 28.
These were Dr. John Forbes (second son of Bishop Patrick Forbes of
Aberdeen), Professor of Divinity in King's College ; Dr. Baron, Professor of
Divinity in Marischal College ; Dr. Leslie, Principal of King's College ; Dr.
Scrogie, minister of St. Machar's ; Dr. Sibbald, minister of St. Nicholas Church,
and Dr. Ross, his colleague. The Doctors were zealous champions of Episco
pacy. After the events of 1637, when most of the other large towns adhered to
the Covenanters, Aberdeen stood out against them. Steps were taken to force
the Covenant on the citizens. For the purpose ttiere were sent North, Henderson,
Dickson, and Cant, leading men amongst the Covenanters, and also the Marquis
of Montrose who not long after distinguished himself on the other side. The
demand that the Covenant should be accepted led to a keen controversy. The
Doctors drew up a paper challenging the authority of the Covenant. To this
Henderson and his party replied. A reply from the Doctors followed, then a
reply to that. Those by the Doctors are the " demands, replys, and duplys "
referred to in our " Record." The discussion, at the time, made no small stir.
As usual, neither party succeeded in convincing its opponents, though each
claimed the victory for its champions. The pamphlets give us a good idea of the
state of Ecclesiastical opinion and controversy at the time, though, as one well
qualified to judge, remarks, " The controversy is now wearisome reading "
(Stephen, II., 265).
REV. WILLIAM RIRES. NOTE 14, PAGE 28, 29.
Mr. William Rires was appointed assistant and successor to his father as
minister of Lonmay in 1649. Like Nathanael Martin of the same Presbytery
(Deer) he joined the Protesters in 1651.
Here it may be well to explain what is implied in "joining the Protesters."
At this time (1651), the Presbyterians were divided into two parties, Protesters
and Resolutioners. The names aiose in this way — in 1649 the more rigid
NOTES. 40/
Presbyterians had got an Act passed, called the "Act of Classes," which excluded
from the army and offices of trust all in any way opposed to the Covenant.
Charles I. had been beheaded. The great bulk of the nation, including the
extreme Covenanters, wished not Cromwell but Charles II. as sovereign. An
army was needed to oppose Cromwell. The Act of 1649 stood in the way.
Parliament and the majority of Presbyterians were willing to repeal it, or, at least,
so far to modify it that those excluded would be permitted to fight for their king
and country. The difficulty was to get the consent of the Church. A meeting
of the Commission of Assembly, held in December 1650, passed resolutions
permitting, with certain exceptions, all " fencible persons " to fight for defence of
the kingdom. On this, the Parliament in May following repealed the " Act of
Classes." The Assembly which met in July (1651), after long and bitter debates,
approved by a majority the resolutions of the Commission. A strongly-worded
protest against what had been done was drawn up and signed by twenty-two of
the minority. Three of the leading protestors were deposed. The Church was
rent into two factions bitterly hostile to each other. Those who approved of the
resolutions of the Commission were called Resolutioners ; those who protested
againt them, Protesters. Such was the origin of the names. To the party of
Protesters Mr. Rires adhered. Keen and out-spoken opponents of Episcopacy —
black prelacy — they were. And now that a king reigned and a Church was in
power that hated both them and their Covenant, they were sure to get into
trouble, and receive no mercy. Hence m ist probably the proceedings against
Mr. Rires. There may have been other reasons, but, if so, these we have not
been able to discover.
QUAKERS. NOTE 15, PAGE 29.
Quakers appear to have given a good deal of trouble at this time. They were
pretty numerous in some parts of England. In Scotland they never were num
erous, although at this period and onwards we find them often mentioned, and
prosecutions instituted against them in most parts of the country. It was,
however, in certain districts of Aberdeenshire and Kincardineshire they were prin
cipally found, chiefly in and around Aberdeen, Inverurie, and Stonehaven. Near
Stonehaven, the Barclays of Urie, their best known supporters in Scotland, had
their residence. About 1663 the quakers obtained a footing, and began to gain
adherents in Aberdeen, where several people of position adopted their tenets.
Some of these settled in Inverurie, and their opinions spread in the district. In
what is now the united parish of Keith-hall and Kinkell, and the neighbourhood,
4O8 NOTES.
many joined them. They had a "Meeting-house" in Kinkell, which, at one time,
was largely attended The " Meeting-house " still exists, though now very few
belong to the body. The Rev. Mr. Donald, the present minister of Keith-hall,
who has kindly favoured me with some interesting information, mentions that old
parishioners still living remember when a considerable quaker congregation met
for worship on .Sundays and Wednesdays. Gradually, however, the numbers
dwindled. Mr. Donald gives instances of several persons, from 1718 onwards,
renouncing quakerism. and receiving baptism by his predecessors, the parish
ministers. In 1870, he, himself, bapti/ed a young family of two brothers and two
sisters — ages from 13 to 22. He adds, " When my ministry commenced here, in
1867, tne number of quakers in the parish was about eight, now there are only
two aged quakers, above eighty, my friends Robert and James Gray."
At first, both in England and Scotland, the quakers were equally obnoxious to
the Civil Government and to the Churches. In England, it was "puritan and
quaker," in Scotland, "papist and quaker" (publicans and sinners.) In Scotland,
Presbyterians and Episcopalians alike hated and persecuted the quakers. The
reason seems to have been, not that they persecuted others, or even in self-defence
returned blow for blow. Their tenets forbade retaliation. Their great offence
was their denial of the Scriptural character of the ministry and sacraments, hold
ing that there was no New Testament warrant for these. The Spirit, as they put
it, often "moved" them to say so, to speak slightingly of ministers and their ways,
sometimes even to appear in Church during service, and show their contempt of
what was being done. No doubt this was provoking, not what Ecclesiastical
human nature then, and I daresay even now, likes, or is prone to submit to it if it
can be helped. Happily it cannot now be resented by "pains and penalties."
Happily, too, quakers do not now give the same provocation. Scarcely one is
found in the district. Like other sects holding peculiar or extreme opinions, they
prospered when persecuted, but decayed in peaceful times and when let alone.
GUYSERS. NOTE 16, PACE 31.
A " guyser " or "guy" has been defined as "one arrayed in a queer dress,
said to have been so-called from the fantastic way in which the effigy of Guy
Eawkes was decked out and burned on 5th November." The practice at first
seems to have been associated with the sports of people at Christmas time and
New Year, when the young decked themselves out in all kinds of fantastic dresses.
What originated in fun and frolic, degenerated into midnight revels and indecent
street dancing, and became a scandal and moral nuisance. Repeated efforts were
NOTES. 409
made by the Church Courts to put down the custom, e.g. the Kirk-Session of
Aberdeen, in 1606, ordained " that na man nor woman in this burgh, about the
superstitious time of Yuill or New Yeris day shall presume to
mask or disagye thameselffis in ony sort, the men in wemennis claythis, nor the
wemen in niennis claythis under the pane, &c." (See "Selections
from the Ecclesiastical Records of Aberdeen," pp. 49, 50. Old Spalding Club.).
\\ e see from our " Record," however, that in spite of the Church the practice
continued. It did so long after this time. Old customs such as this die hard.
Their origin and original purpose are forgotten, but the practice survives.
TITULARS OF TEINDS. NOTE 17, PAGE 31.
Previous to the Reformation a large portion of the land of the country
belonged to the different Orders of the Roman Catholic Church. At the Refor
mation these Church lands were annexed to the Crown. Out of them various
grants of lands and tithes, along with the patronage of the Churches, were made
by James VI. to his favourites. Those so possessing were styled " lords of
erection," also " titulars of tithes," and became invested with the right of presenta
tion or patronage. Duncan (" Parochial Law ") says, " Many of the teind rights
which had been acquired by Religious Houses in times of popery had, on the eve
of the Reformation, been feued out to laymen, whilst many of those rights which
still remained to the Roman Catholic Church at the time of the Reformation
passed to the Crown, and were by it conferred on laymen, called ' lords of
erection,' or ' titulars of teinds.' " " Titulars of teinds " were, therefore, persons
who "enjoyed the Ecclesiastical benefice without performing its duties,'' possessed
the Church property but did no Church work.
LORD OF PlTSLIGO AND LAIRDS OF PlIILORTH. NOTE 1 8, PAGE 32.
Pitsligo (Forbes), a branch of the Forbes family ; Philorth, the Frasers. At
this period the Forbeses and Frasers were supporters of the Covenanting party —
the Presbyterians. Consequently they were in bad odour with the Episcopalians,
and after the Restoration of Charles II., and the re-establishment of Episcopacy,
were distrusted. Hence the statement in our " Record " that no minister pre
sented by Lord Pitsligo or the lairds of Philorth was to be accepted for Aberdour
or Pitsligo. The Master of Forbes and other Forbeses are named in the list of
those fined in 1662 for having been on the side of the Covenanters. (Wodrow,
L 275-)
FFF
410 XOTF.S.
PENNY BRYDALS. NOTE 19, PAGE 67.
Regarding these, Dr. Cunningham in his "Church History of Scotland" says,
" How or when penny hrydals originated it were hard to say, but it is certain that
in spite of both Parliament and Assembly they did exist, and exist in some remote
districts of the country to the present day. When a cottar's daughter is about to
become a wife, every neighbour lad and lass are made welcome to the wedding
who will contribute a penny to pay the fiddler, but friendly hands bring some
thing more, to help the garnishing of the young couple's house, and the evening
is spent in vigorous dancing and boisterous fun, and amid these delicacy and
decency are sometimes forgotten." In 1645 and 1649 lne General Assembly had
passed Acts anent " Penny Brydals," and the "promiscuous dancings" that went
on at them. These Acts were appointed to be read in Church, before the con
gregations, and Synods and Presbyteries were enjoined to inquire as to their
observance. The Church Records show that the custom with its abuses prevailed
throughout the whole country. Everywhere we meet with the same complaints
as to the scandalous scenes enacted at " Penny Weddings," and with similar
measures taken to restrain them, but for long seemingly with not much success.
PLANTING PROFESSOR OF DIVINITY. NOTE 20, PAGE 79.
The chair of Professor of Divinity in Aberdeen University was founded by the
Synod of Aberdeen. The money raised for the Professor's salary was invested in
land, (Cairntradlin in the parish of Kinellar). The mode of appointing the
Professor is peculiar to this Chair in Scottish Universities. It is by open com
petition. When a vacancy occurs it is advertised, and applications from
Candidates are received. On a day appointed for the purpose, the Candidates
appear, and in terms of the Deed of Foundation, are examined on (i) Languages,
vi/. Latin, Greek, and Hebrew ; (2) Apologetics ; (3) Dogmatics. The exam
iners, who are also the patrons, are, the Moderator of the Synod of Aberdeen, who
acts as Convener (failing whom the Moderator of the Presbytery of Aberdeen,
failing whom the Dean of the Theological Faculty), two commissioners from each
of the eight Presbyteries of the Synod, the Principal of the University, another
member of the University, the Dean of the .Theological Faculty, or another
member of that Faculty. The examination generally lasts three or four days.
The University commissioners continued the Chair very much as formerly.
The following is from their Ordinance, " Whereas the Professorship of Divinity
in King's College was endowed by the Synod of Aberdeen, and the patronage
NOTES. 41 ]
of the said Professorship has heretofore belonged to the Synod,
and wheras it is expedient to define the manner in which such patronage shall be
exercised; the Commissioners' statute and ordain: —
That the patronage of, or right of presenting to the said Professorship of
Systematic Theology, shall be exercised as nearly as possible in the manner
pointed out by the charter of erection of the said Professorship of Divinity in
King's College, dated the i2th March, 1642, that is to say, on a trial and election
by the following persons, vi/. the Moderator of the Synod of Aberdeen, two
Commissioners from each Presbytery of the Synod to be chosen for the purpose,
the Principal of the University of Aberdeen, a Professor of the University to be
chosen by the Senatus Academicus, and the Dean of the Faculty of Divinity
therein, or a Member of that Faculty to be chosen for the purpose by the
Faculty."
FAST " FOR SUCCESS TO His MAJESTY'S FORCES AT SEA." NOTE 21, PACK 83.
This refers to the war with the Dutch into which Charles II. had recklessly
plunged his country. Some years previously, the two countries — England and
Holland — had been keenly contending with each other for naval supremacy.
For some time, however, peace, concluded by Cromwell, and honourable to
England, had prevailed. But in 1665, Charles, for no sufficient reason, declared
war against the Dutch. It was on this being done that the Fast was appointed to
pray for " success to his Majesty's forces at sea." On the 6th September, the
English fleet gained a great victory near Lowestoft, and for which the thanksgiving
for " the victorie over the Dutch " (p. 84) was appointed. The rejoicing did not
last long. In 1667, a terrible retribution followed, and there came on England
what has been called " the greatest humiliation she has ever endured." The
Dutch fleet destroyed Sheerness, took and burned the ships lying at Chatham,
and threatened London itself, sailing up the Thames to within some twenty miles
of the Capital. To quote Macaulay's well-known words, " The roar of foreign
guns was heard for the first and last time by the citizens of London." Fortu
nately the Dutch Admiral retired with the tide, and further danger and indignity
were escaped.
REV. WALTER DARC,. NOTE 22, PAGE 86.
Scott ("Fasti" part vi., p. 674) says that Mr. Darg, who was minister of Deskford,
was deposed for insufficiency prior to 24th October, 1651, and that in 1666 and
1674 he was accused of marrying persons irregularly.
412 NOTKS.
In the "Synod Record," 2yth April 1671 (p. 115) the Bishop of Aberdeen
states that he had received a letter from the Bishop of Moray, complaining of Mr.
Walter Darg, a deprived minister, marrying several persons within his Diocese in
a disorderly way ; the Bishop of Aberdeen and Synod ordain that the Presbytery
of Fordyce, where he resides, cite him before them, and ordain him to appear
before the Bishop of Moray for trial " as to his misbehaviors forsaids, utherwayis
that he be processed with excommunicatione."
REV. JOHN SEATON. NOTE 23, PAGE 88-9.
Mr. Seaton was one of the ministers of Old Machar. At Synod held June
1652 (" Synod Record," p. 47-8) the ministers within the Province were " posed "
as to their views on Church Government. The whole ministers, it is stated,
unanimously approved the constitution and government of the Kirk of Scotland
by Sessions, Presbytries, Provincial (Synods), and General Assemblies, except Mr.
John Row, Mr. John Menzies, and Mr. John Seaton, who did not see that there
were Scriptural grounds for the different Church Courts, and who also objected to
the " promiscuous administration of ordinances, without due distinction betwixt
the precious and the vile." The Synod condemned their opinions, but delayed
sentence until advised by the General Assembly. At Synod meeting, 2ist
October, 1652 (p. 67), it was found that the above brethren had separated them
selves to Independency, but it was agreed that before proceeding further, certain
brethren should be appointed to confer with them. Those so appointed reported
that they were still of the same mind. Whereupon, the matter was remitted to
the Presbytery of Aberdeen to be dealt with. This being the time of Cromwell,
Seaton's " Independency " may have secured his being let alone, as it did in the
case of others similarly situated. After the Restoration, he again got into trouble,
and was treated as stated in our " Record." How he was in the bounds of
Alford Presbytery we have not discovered.
MR. PAUL SHALETTI. NOTE 24, PAGE 141.
In "Scottish Notes and Queries," January 1894, p. 122, there is the follow
ing quotation from the Diary of John Row, Principal of King's College : — " Mr.
Paul Shaletti, a Jew, a Rabbin, a preacher, came to Aberdeen about the beginning
of Aprile 1669, professing to teach Hebrew and the Oriental languages : convert
from Judaisme about six yeares ago."
NOTKS. 413
HOLY WELLS. NOTE 25, PAGE 189.
At one time almost every parish had its well, as well as \\sfair, named after the
patron saint of the parish. There are said to have been above six hundred holy
wells in Scotland. Some of them were very famous for their supposed miraculous
virtues — such as St. Fithac's Well, Aberdeen ; the Well of Seggat, and others in
our county. To the holy wells multitudes flocked every year on the Saints'
days, bringing their children to be healed of infantine troubles, or seeking to be
themselves cured of such ailments as lameness, diseases of the eyes, epilepsy,
scrofula, even lunacy. Many superstitious practices and evils came to be con
nected with the pilgrimages to the holy wells. After the Reformation, when the
reverence for saints and saints' days had somewhat declined, both Parliament and
Church passed frequent enactments forbidding people to go to these wells, but for
long with not much effect in putting down the practice. In this respect education
and the consequent enlightenment have been more successful than Acts of Parlia
ment or discipline of Church — though the superstition is said still to exist in some
places, and now and then a holy well is visited.
PROFESSOR HENRY SCOUGAL. NOTE 26, PAGE 203.
Henry Scougal was son of Bishop Patrick Scougal, and was born in 1650,
when his father was minister of Leuchars. He was ordained minister at Auchter-
less in 1672,, where, alike by his pulpit services and pastoral work, he proved
himself a model Christian minister. The very next year — October 1673 — when
he was only twenty-three years of age, it was unanimously agreed by the Bishop
and Synod to nominate him to the Professorship of Divinity in King's College.
He shrank from accepting the nomination, and requested to be allowed time to
consider the matter. This was granted. Next Synod — April 1674 — he accepted
the appointment, and the usual steps were taken to test his qualifications for the
office. In every respect, in the class-room and in intercourse with his students,
Henry Scougal proved a worthy Professor of Divinity. Not long, however, was
he spared to the work. He died on the i3th June, 1678, only twenty-eight years
of age, yet, as Dr. Cooper has so well said, " leaving behind him a name and
record such as have not been surpassed by the most distinguished of his
successors." His principal work is " The Life of God in the Soul of Man," an
edition of which has lately been published under the care of the Rev. James
Cooper, D.D., Aberdeen. To the little volume, Dr. Cooper has prefixed an
interesting and appreciative account of Henry Scougal and his work.
414 NOTKS.
PRISONERS WITH THE TURKS. NOTK 27, PACK 239.
During the i6th, i7th, and iSth centuries, there are in the Church Records of
the period, in P>urgh Records, as well as in Acts of the Privy Council, many
references to " Prisoners with the Turks," and recommendations as to raisii^
O
money for their ransom. For centuries, the Turks in North Africa were no better
than pirates, and pirates of the worst sort. The Algerine " gallies " were the
scourge of the Mediterranean, continually attacking and capturing the trading
vessels of Christian nations, and reducing their crews to slavery. Many
Scotchmen were so captured. It was to obtain the release of these that contribu
tions were solicited in our Churches. Often a large sum had to be paid for their
ransom. (On the whole subject of the " Pirates of Barbary in Scottish Records,"
there is in the " Scottish Antiquary" of April last (1897) a most interesting article
by Dr. Cramond of Cullen, which, by his kind permission, we have been allowed
to use as far as wished). Dr. Cramond shows that some of the " prisoners " were
from our own district. Amongst others, he mentions Arthur, son of Hugh Rose,
fourteenth baron of Kilravock, whose second wife was Mary, daughter of
Alexander, Lord Forbes ; also a son of Provost William Duff of Craigston, an
ancestor of the Duke of Fife.
CENTESIMA. NOTE 28, PAGE 262.
This was a fund raised by the ministers of the Diocese for the benefit of their
widows and orphan children. Each minister was to pay to the fund annually
the xooth part of his stipend. An account of the receipts and disbursements was
regularly made to the Synod. What became of the Aberdeen Centesima funds
after 1688 we have not been able to discover.
We may mention that a similar fund was raised in the Diocese of Edinburgh,
and still exists. The money amounting to ^1,050 is invested in City of Edin
burgh Stock. An agreement, authorised by the Court of Session, was come to in
1712 that, on the death of the last of the widows of the Episcopal ministers, the
benefits should devolve to those of the ministers of the Presbyteries that, in
Episcopal times, formed the Diocese of Edinburgh. (See Dr. Mair's " Digest of
Church Laws," 433-4.)
POPISH PLOT. NOTE 29, PAGE 300.
This refers to the well-known " Popish Plot '' connected with Titus Oates.
On the Continent at this time reports were rife as to plots to massacre Protestant
NOTES.
415
sovereigns, and overthrow the Protestant religion. The conduct of Louis XIV.
and others gave only too good grounds for such reports. There was general
alarm. In our own country, the public mind got into a state of great agitation
—people ready to believe almost anything against the Catholics. Gates, fitly
described as " one of the vile imposters who are always thrown to the surface at
times of great public agitation " (Green), first a Baptist minister, next a curate
and navy chaplain, then a Roman Catholic, fraternising with the Jesuits, but cast
off by them also, took advantage of the general panic, and invented a story of a
plot to murder the king and leading Protestants, and place on the throne the
Duke of York (James II.), the Roman Catholic brother of the king. This is the
" Popish Plot" referred to. In the then state of alarm the story was believed.
Severest measures were taken against the Catholics. Many of them were executed.
The story is now believed to have been entirely without foundation.
THANKSGIVING, QTH SEPTEMBER. NOTE 30, PAGE 347.
Two plots well known in history belong to this year — 1683. These are the
Ryehouse Plot and the Assassination Plot. The object of the former was to
murder the king. It was to be done in this way :— As Charles returned from
Newmarket races, he would pass a roadside farm called Ryehouse. As he
approached the place, a cart of hay was to be overturned on the road, thus stop
ping the royal coach. In the confusion the king was to be shot. The object of
the Assassination Plot was the murder of both the king and his brother the Duke
of York. The plots were discovered. Many implicated, or supposed to be im
plicated in them, were executed, amongst others, two whose names are well known,
Lord Russell and Algernon Sydney. " For the preservation of His Majesty and
his royal brother from the late treasonable conspiracy," a solemn thanksgiving was
enjoined.
THANKSGIVING "FOR VICTORIES OVER REBELLIOUS SUBJECTS."
NOTE 31, PAGE 365.
Charles II. died 6th February, 1685. His brother, the Duke of York,
succeeded as King James II. Monmouth, Argyle, and others, who since the
Ryehouse Plot had found refuge in Holland, now resolved to return to their
country, and raise the standard of revolt— Monmouth in England, Argyle in
Scotland. Both attempts signally failed. On July 6th, Monmouth was defeated
at Sedgemoor, captured two days afterwards, and shortly thereafter executed.
416 NOTES.
Argyle's attempt in Scotland ended quite as disastrously. The clans did not
join him as he expected. The little army that did gather was soon and easily
dispersed. For these results — "victories over his rebellious subjects" — the
thanksgiving was appointed.
Explanation of Antiquated Words, etc.
(Mainly from "Jamicson's Dictionary.")
Ca/sies. Causeways, originally a road or other place, in making which lime
(calx) was employed. The " calsie " would be what is now called the causewayed
courtyard.
Cham/rets. A small furrow or bevel cut in wood or stone, or the sharp edge
of a lintel cut to a square or flattened surface.
Crne/s. Scrofulous sores, the "king's evil." Some of the holy wells had a
reputation for curing the cruels. There is the well-known description of St.
Ronan's well. " The waters used to be thought good for naething, but here and
there a puir body's bairn that had got the cruels and could not afford a penny
worth of salts."
Citrrecks. " A small cart made of twigs," carried on the back of horses, as
all farm produce, &c. had to be conveyed then and long after ; much the same as
" creels," though the remark is made, " The fuel was carried in creels, the corn in
Curracks."
Davoch of land. A small district comprising about 416 acres. It was
reckoned thus, i ox-gate =13 acres; 8 ox-gates =104 acres, or i plough-gate;
4 plough-gates = 41 6 acres, or a davoch (dauch, &c.).
Hand fasting. At fairs and on other occasions it was the custom for a man
to take a woman with whom he was to live for a year without marrying her. If
both parties were pleased at the end of the year they were married, and any chil
dren born were legitimated — if not pleased they separated, and the man main
tained the children. After the Reformation, the Church used every means to put
down the immoral custom.
NOTES.
Homer. One proclaimed an outlaw. "To put to the horn " was to denounce
as a rebel or outlaw. The king's messenger at the Cross or other place gave
three blasts with a horn. Upon this the person proclaimed was regarded "and
treated as an outlaw or rebel - lost his civil rights, and his goods were
" escheated " to the Crown.
Kebbars. Rafters or beams made of pieces of wood roughly split and un-
Thcy were laid across the couples under the divots or thatch, their use
;omething like that of sarking nowadays. Pannes (pans) were much the same.
This was used as a charm for curing cattle of certain diseases
The fire was raised by rubbing one stick against another. The charm doctor
superintended the raising of the fire. From the fire so raised other fires were
lied, water boiled, and sprinkled on the cattle for murrain and other diseases.
This was a coarse linen garment worn by offenders when doing
on the stool of repentance. Dr. Rogers ("Social Life of Scotland"
II. 199) gives tins account of ordering the garment :-" September 24th 1693
ie Session (Kirkmichael, Ayrshire) appoints John Forgan to employ a Straiten
to make a coat or covering of sackcloth for Janet Kennedy (the offender)
like unto that which they have in Straiten, there having been no such thin* these
many years ; it's thought none of the tailors of this parish know how to make it."
Wadset, Wadsetter, Wodsetter. To wadset was to alienate land or other
roperty as a security for debt, under reversion to the owner when the debt was
The « wadsetter" was the person who held the deed or « wadset " by which
the debtor gave his lands into the hands of his creditor, so that he received the
rents in payment of the debt.
Index
Aberc.Uie (Meiklc) 136.
Abcrcrombie, Andrew (Minr., Stralhdoi;)
\v ; 85, 86 ; suspended, 105 ;
107, 112, 116, 137 ; charge
against, 141 ; 156, 157 ; exhorted,
163 ; 171, iSb, 190, 230, 242, 249,
303 ; rebuked, 304 ; 315, 316,
329-
Arthur, help to, 361.
Aberdeen (City) supply of ministers 6, 56 ;
harbour, 341-2; harbour, 351,
353 : 355. 35<5.
(Exercise or Presbytery), to meet in
College Kirk, 3 ; Book of, 32 ; 50,
51 : bk. 56 ; modr. 59 ; 63 ; bk.
78 ; vice-modr. 81 ; bk. 85 ; 89,
95 ; bk. &c. 104; ny, 129, 141 ;
bk. 153 ; do. 1 68 ; 206, 211, 220,
344;
- (Old >S: New) Morning and, Evening
Prayers, I ; Old, 294; 341, 350,
359, 379-
Aberdour, 32.
Abernelhy, 21.
Aboyne (Lord), complaint against Rev. J.
Irving, 144, 146.
• (Parish) 32 ; union of and Glen-
tanar, 80.
Absents from Synod, names of, 26 ; do. 51 ;
must send excuses, 72 ; do. 86 ;
do. 92 ; to be rebuked, 105 ;
regulations as to. 2IO ; 219 ; to be
censured, 221 ; 318, 326, Tr? :
^ ' •jj*jjjj*j>
(me iXc. for, 341.
I'rom Presbyteries, 31-2 ; to be lined
49 ; regulations as to, 77 ;
admonished, 97 ; to be suspended
293 ; regulations as to, 311 ; 337.
Achreddie, 381.
Acts of Parliament — see Parliament.
Acts of Synod, things done on Lord's Day,
335 5 ('°- 33'^ ; us to discipline to
be revised, 340; as to Centesima,
35° ; 354 ? as to illegitimate
children, 381.
Adam, Bessie (charming) 16.
Adultery, 12, 13, 17 46 ; and incest, 161.
Alexander, John (Glenbucket) 24}, 383.
John (Minr, Kildrummy), xv ; 347,
371 ; arrears Centesima, 381 ; 391,
392.
Rev. Walter, 283.
Alford (Parish), xiv ; Mr. James Gordon
settled, 8 ; school, 13; do. report,
15 ; 78, 90 ; school, 97 ; 101 ;
murder in 103, ; vacancy, 107 ;
Mr. George Forbes appointed and
objected to, 108 ; vacancy sup
plied, 300 ; 361, 303, 304, 305,
3.o6, 331, 345, 353, 355 ; visita
tion of, 357 ; school, 372 ; do.,
374 ; 376, 377, 38^ 392; bk.,
395-
• (Presbytery), 20, 31, 32, 34 ; bk.,
50 ; 51, 53 ; modr. of, 59 ; 63 ;
bk., 71 ; 81 ; bk., 85 ; bk., 103 :
supply to Invernochtie, 105 ; bk.,
Il8 ; 124, 132 ; bk. entries in,
133 ; bk., 134 ; 139; 141 ;
bk., 147 ; 149 ; bk., 152 ;
160 ; bk., 165 ; 198 ; 203 ;
moderator, 206; bk., 209; 211,
219, 289, 291, 293, 294, 296;
bk., 299 ; 302 ; 303 ; bk.,
311 ; 312 ; bk., 319 ; 325,
343 ; bk., 349 ; 351 ; 354 ;
368 ; 369, 370 ; lik., 378 ; do.,
380; bk., 384; 388; bk. errors
in, 391 ; clerk in error, 395.
Algiers, 303.
Allanach, James, 375.
— William, 244, 375.
Allegiance, Oath of, licentiates to sub
scribe, 33 ; form of, 240-1.
Amidaeus, Alexander, help to, 385, 389.
Anderson, Arthur, fighting on Lord's day,
45-
Rev. George, 141, 207, 211, 240.
Rev. Gilbert, 27, 81.
- Gilbert, help to, 381.
Isobcll— see Clerihew, William.
42O
INItKX.
Anderson, Jean- -see Milne, Adam.
John, and Klspet Sutherland (di^ci-
pline), 24, 26, 36, 37, 40.
Margaret -sec Ogilvie, Alexander.
Robert, lighting on Lord's da)', 45,
65, 100, loi, 1 12.
\\'illiani ;\nd Beatrix Doiigla.^
(diM-ipline), 17, 20, 23, 24, 25,
-'9, 35. 37, 40, 42, 44, 4", 47, 49.
53;
William (Newmilne), 349
"William (Si.ecoh), papist, IO2.
"William (Towie), 246.
Anniversary of Restoration, &c. , see
Thanksgiving.
Anslruther, harbour, 385.
Sir Ralph, 385.
Anton, Janet, 325, 327, 332.
Apparel of Ministers, 6, 34.
Appeals, regulations as to, 130 ; by [ohn
Irving, 165 ; by parties in Cab-
rach, 182-3 5 by John Irving, 196;
by Col. Forbes, 206.
Appretiation of Manses,\c. — see Valuation.
Arbuthnot, Alexander, 57.
Archballoch, 296.
Archbishop of St. Andrews, II.
Archibald, Helen (disc.) 299, 300, 301, 304.
Ardwell, I O2, 194.
Auchindoir, \iv 513; papists in, 17 ; State
of Church, 39 ; 40 ; Presby. meet
ing at, 68 ; desk in Church, 68 ;
papists in, 102 ; 121, 122; minister
for, 169 ; bursars, 173 ; minister
settled, 179; 191, 196,230, 242,
247, 257, 317, valuation of Manse,
321 - 323; 328, 336, 346, 347, 353,
J56, 35^.
Auchinlcith, 121, 247.
Auchterless, 57, 73, 166, 210.
Bain, Andrew, murderers of, 90.
Balfluge, 108 ; (Baltluig), 346.
Balgowen, 224.
Balhillock, 182.
Banchory, morning and evening prayers at,
I ; School, 74 ; 80, 202, 203, 211,
220, 283, 293, 341, 350, 359, 378.
Bandeen, John (charming), 143, 144.
Thomas, 146.
Banff, morning and evening prayers at I ;
207, 219, 303.
Banks, Marjorie, Si.
Banns, regulations as to, 59, 149.
Baptism, admitting persons to, 153 ; by
those unauthorised, 172; 177; re
gulations as to, 336.
Barclay, Adam (Minr, Towie and Keig),
xiv, xv ; 8 ; 19, 27, 40, 41 . 42, 59,
63, 69, 80, 8l, 82 ; settled at
Keig, 83 ; 104, 1 12, 1 16, 123, 139,
141, 146, 147, 158, 162, 163, 165,
167, 1 68, 184., 1 88, 202, 20(), 209,
211, 214, 2l6, 221, 223, 224, 251,
283, 289, 290, 231, 294, 295, jOO,
302, 313, 369.
- Alexander (Student), 178, 179, 185,
186, 187, 1 88 ; Rev. Alexander,
282.
Rev. John, 211, 282, 298.
Barclay, John, and Barbara David
son (discipline), 45-6, 49.
Barefooted (discipline), 32, 40.
Bargaining, &c., on Lord's Day, 30.
Barthol Fair, 217.
Bedle, appointment of, 350-1.
Belchilie, 194.
Belheivie, 167, 2O2, 334, 379.
Bellabeg, 244.
Ber.net, Capt., 239.
Benton, ( Icorge, 383.
Bettie, fames (papist), IO2.
William, 383.
Birkenbreul, 247.
Birnie, George (Schoolmaster), 216.
Rev. Walter (blind), 178, 185.
Birse, 275, 325, 327.
Bishops of Aberdeen : —
- (i) David Mitchell, xliv, l;dead n;
52.
— (2) Alexander Burnet xliv,26, 52, 69.
- (3) Patrick Scougal, xlv, 5.
- (4) George Ilalyburton, xlvii.
- of Edinburgh ordains John Mair, II.
Bishop licensing preachers when absent, 10
& notes p. 402.
Reports and references to, 8, 21, 25,
26, 32, 34, 41, 49, 58, 59, 65 ;
quakerism, 66 ; as to uniting
Aboyne and Glentanar, 8o;8l, 88,
90, 92, 96, loo, 105, 108, 120,
134, 138, 146, 147, 149, 152, 158,
161, 164, 173 ; John Irving,
175-6 ; 177, 184, 189, 196, 218,
243, 300, 327, 341.
Blair, Rev. Dr., 358, 378,388.
Blair, Rev. William, 282, 283.
Blairdinny, 316.
Blasphemy, 61, 245, 256.
Bogincuil, 296.
Bombathie, John (Hungarian), help to,
207, 213.
Book of Common Order (Knox's Liturgy)
xxxi, and notes pp. 398, 400.
INDEX.
421
I' ><>k of Geneva, \\.\i, and notes p. 398.
Books ( Presbytery), regulations ;is to visit
ing of, 56, 72, 78, 85, 92, 117,
125, 147, 166 ; entries as to com
munion, 212; 221.
Books (Session), entries in, 59, 74, 87, 91 ;
regulations as to, 93 ; 96, 99,
omissions, lo(> ; i emulations as to
visiting of, and entries to he made,
201 - 2 : Auchindoir, no Hook,
2I(>; regulations as to, 313 ;
order as to, 519 ; 324 ; Strathdon,
bk, 328 ; Alford, 365 ; Keig,
304.
Bowheir, Andrew, help, 379.
Brachly, 134.
Brackla, 194.
Braemar Church — see Crathie.
Braemar, 87.
Brechin, 209.
Uridgehall, 280, 289.
Bridges, contributions to, 64, 72, Si, 161,
312.
Broadhaugh, 296.
Brown, Rev. Alexander, presented to
Cabrach, xiv ; 330, 372, 381, 391.
Brown, John, 307, 309.
Bruce, John, 121.
Rev. Robert, 283.
Biux, 121, 167, 369.
Buchan, 342,
Bunson, John, 315,
Buquham, IOI, 244.
Burial in Church — see lleritors.
Burial Registers — sec Dead.
Burnet, Bishop — -see Bishops.
Rev. George, 27, 59, 63, So, Si,
104, 149.
Jean — see Wilson.
Rev. John (Monymusk), 325.
Robert (Fiscal), 168.
Rev. Robert, 202, 206, 214, 284.
William, trials for licence, 16, 18,
35 ; licensed by Presbytery, 36.
Rev. William (Cullen), Si, 141, 207.
William (Schoolmaster, Alford),
xv ; trials for licence, 16 ; 18, 35,
licensed by Presbytery, 36 ; 106,
107, 108, 109, in, 112, 115;
appointed Clerk of Presbytery,
117 ; 119 138, 139, 143, 159;
presented to Kildrummie, 161 ;
162, 165, 170, 188, 189, 209,
224, 244, 248, 321, 323, 369.
Bursars, Regulations as to, 4 and Notes p.
4"3> 57 ; penalties to, 67 ; 68, 73,
So, 82, 83, 93, 105, 143, 160 ;
arrears dae to, 165 ; 173, 207,
208, 242, 276-7, 280, 284 ; how
to be paid, 299 ; 318, 324, 329,
334) 354 ; regulation as to, 360 ;
3&5, 367-
Cabrach, xiv, 13 ; lands to, 26 ; do. 31 ;
40, 54 ; papists in, 102 ; John
Irvine presented to, 116; 120, 121.
122, 123, 144, 149 ; visitation of,
150 ; 157, 158 164, 165, 166, 187,
iSS, .190, 191, 193, 196, 107, 198,
204 ; minr. reponed, 206 ; 223,
242, 273, 289, 291, 292, 304, 305,
3o6, 307, 308, 309, 312, 316, 320,
32I> 323» 324» 326 ; presentation
t°» 33° ; minr. settled, 331 ; 362,
3°5 » 374 ! visitation of, 382 ; 384,
385> 391, 392.
Cabrachstoune, 361.
Calsies, 416.
Camphill, 135.
Canonical obedience, Form of, 3 ; absent
from Synod to sign, 6; 7, 27, 28 ;
certain minrs. to sign, 32-?; c8,
t. > j j > j >
240 ; iorm of, 241.
Carnbec, 319.
Carter, John (disc.), 345.
Catechising xxxiv, diets of to be entered in
Session-Book, 59, 93.
Catechism, 379.
Cateran (Katherin), 77.
Catechism, proposal as to, 350, 359.
Cathedral Kirk — sec St Machar.
Cattenach, Donald, lighting on Lord's
Day, 65.
Centesima, 262 and Notes p. 414, 269, 313 ;
payment of 319 ; 324, 326, 329,
333 ; as to those who have
left their parishes for Test, 334 ;
337 ; investing of, 339 ; 340, 354,
3S«» 359, 360, 365, 366, 368, 373,
378, 379, jSo ; arrears, 381 ; 384,
388 ; account of, 389 ; 391, 392,
394-
Chalmers, Agnes, contrib. to, 57, 73.
- Alexander, 316.
- George and John, for murder, 129.
- George, 348.
Isobel, cursing minr. 242.
Chamfret, 416.
Chaplains, to take Oath of Allegiance ; to
take Test, 342 ; do., 346.
Charming, &c., Patrick M'Kommic — see
M'Kommie, Patrick ; Janet For
bes — see Forbes, Janet; Marjorie
Reid — see Reid, Marjorie ; James
Smith— see Smith, James; witch
craft and charming, enactments as
422
INDKX.
to, 140 ; charming and curing
cattle, 143 ; do., 144 ; 145 ;
order as to, 148 ; consulting
Patrick M'Kommie, 182; do.,
184-185 ; fairies, &c., 254 ;
trances, ivc. , 257.
Chcyne, Robert (minister, Kcnncthmont),
xv, 17 ; leading corn on Lord's
day, 36 ; rase tried, 37-9 ; 41-2,
68, 75, 82, 83, 84, 87, 88 ;
papists, 107 : do. 109 ; 164, 165,
186, 197, 214, 215 ; helper to,
252.
Robert (student), trials, 344, 345,
.54"- 347, 352-
Rev. William, 32, 33.
Child desertion, 209.
Children, 147 ; illegitimate, 381.
Christie, Professor, i.
William (minister, Glenbucket), xiv;
89, 90, 91, 96 ; settled at, 97 ;
103, 106, 107, in, 112, 155 ;
rebuked, 163 ; arrears to bursars,
165 : 169, I So, 192, 197 ; small
stipend, 205 ; 218 : rebuked, 223;
244, 247, 291, 308.
Church Attendance, none to leave during
service, 30.
- Architecture, xvi ; old Churches,
xvi.
- Government, sketch of, 1662-1688,
xxii-xxvii.
Rights, &c., 359.
Clatt, xiv, 9, 43, 45, 46 ; papists in, 102 ;
122, 123, 145, 156, 180, 182, 294,
315 ; visitation of, 316 ; 317 ;
bk., 318 ; 321, 325 ; vacant, 330 ;
minr. settled, 331 ; 332, 357, 362,
374, 380, 394, 395.
Clerihew, Patrick , 316.
Clerihew, William and Isobel Anderson
(disc), 49 ; sentence, 61.
- 344-
Clerk (of Presbytery), W. Duncan, John
Mair, 76; Wm. Uurnetl, 117;
fees to, 241.
- (of Synod), fees, 30 ; do., 53 ; 60,
75, 81, 86, 92 ;" deficients " in
payments, 119; 189, 212, 252,
282.
Clerk, Rev. Gilbert, 104, 132.
fames (Howbog), 194.
John (Reedford), 182, 194.
Robert (disc.), 8, 9, II, 12.
Robert (Nether Howbog), 194.
Clova, 121, 371.
Cluny, 73, 135, 203, 282.
Cobbleseat, 149.
<
chran 167.
C ckburn, Rev. John, 282, 283, 31)3.
C Idstone, 149, 275,^325.
C liege Kirk — see King's College.
C llithie, 273.
C mmissary of Aberdeen, 64, 92.
(' mmission, High. 45, 66. 88.
Commissioners for Plantation of Churches.
I5,_i6, 32, 54, 58.
— to Privy Council, payment of. 240,
249. 251, 257, 303.
Committees, of Presbytery; case of charm
ing. 143 ; charges against mini
ster of Cabrach 1 66 ; dividing
Udny Church, 167 ; for mortifica
tions, 284.
- of Synod; electing I'rofessor of
Divinity, 79 ; uniting Aboyne and
Glentanar, 80 ; James Hay's
case, 80 ; anent papists and
quakers, 104; Innes, 118;
scandals about certain ministers,
141 ; Colonel Forbes, 206 ;
various matters. 220; Laird of
Glenbucket's case, 325 ; for
Catechism, 379.
Common Head— see Controversy.
Communion — see Lord's Supper.
Elements, 283.
Complaints against parishioners, 68.
Conans, John, 393.
William, 393.
( 'ondition of Country, xix.
Contributions, &c., 4, 54, 55, 57, 59, 64,
72, 73, 74, 79, *>i, 86, 92, 93, 95,
102, 104, 107, 109, III, 112. 115,
118, 134. 135, 141, 154, 1 60, 161,
178, 185, 207, 210, 213, 239, 240,
241, 255, 294, 298, 303. 307. 308,
311,312, 313, 320, 324, 326. 336,
339, 342, 343, 347, 35i, 352, 353,
354, 355, 36i, 369, 373- 379, 381,
3S6, 395-
Controversies (Common Head).
Subjects, for, 14, 15, 23, 35; brethren to
handle, 59; 65, 66, 68, 75, 84, 85,
87, 90. 97, 106, 116, 138, 145,
157, !59> J62, 169, 170, 171. 177,
181, 186, 191, 223, 241, 295, 305,
309- 33i, 337, 34.6, 372- 386, 394-
Conventicles, deposed ministers, quakers,
i\:c., 237 ; disorderly preachers,
&c., measures against. 340.
Cook, James, fighting on Sabbath, 121,
122.
Corbat, John, help to, 381.
Cordoner, John, 244.
Corgarff, xiv.
INDEX.
423
Corn, leading on Sabbath, 36 ; witnesses,
37 ; 38 ; decision, minister's wife
to 1)0 publicly rebuked, 39 5
others, 40 ; 42, 44, 46, 49, 66, 61,
62, 64, 66, 68, 75, 76, 82, 83, 84,
87.
Corsbie, Jean (papist), 102.
Coulie, |aines, lesser ex-coin., 325.
('mill, 142, 284, 293, 307. 311, 312, 369.
Council. Privy (His .Majesty's), 16, 104.
153, 1 60, 177,204, 239,248, 257,
294,298, 302, 303, 308, 311, 312,
314, 324, 329. 336, 340, 341, 343-
351,355, 361,367- 335.393-
Couper, Alexander, 194.
• Andrew, 316.
Margaret (disc.), 356.
William, 194, 204, 243, 383.
Coupland, [ohn, 357.
Patrick, xiv., 157, 158, 159, 162;
recom. for licence, 163 ; trials for
Cushnie, 170 ; 171, 173, 179 ;
charge of Plagiarism, 1 80 ; 181, ;
settled at Cushnie, 184; 190, 194,
196 ; rebuked, 205 ; 228 ; ad
monition to, 292 ; 300. 347. 369.
William, 365.
Couts, Alexander, 364.
David, 356.
Covenant, Doctors of Aberdeen on, 64.
Cracullie, 255.
Cragtoune, 36.
Craig, 17, 102.
Craig, John, 223.
Craigievar, complaint against laird of, 32,
69, 181, 348.
Craigpot, 280.
('ran, Janet — sec Fergus. Alaster.
Crathie and Hraemar, 74.
Crevey. Thomas, Clerk of Synod, 282, 297,
302, 339, 365, 373, 376, 384, 388,
395-
Crighton, William and Margaret Garden
(disc.), 57.
Chrighton, William, help to, 381.
Crimond, 168.
Cromarre, Thomas, consulting sorcerer,
182.
Cromwell, xx.
Crookshank, Alexander. 215.
• George. 135.
Cruickshank, Robert, 134.
Cruckshank, Christian, 292.
( Iruden, 298.
Cruels, 416.
( 'ulfurk, 121.
Cullen, 81, 207.
Culquharrie, 65, 101, 244, 375.
Culquhich, lands to Glenbucket, 205.
Culsalmond, )66, 1/3, 181, 193.
Culsh, 69.
Cults, 17, 43, 102, laird of (papist), 302,
350-
Cunnan, John, 315.
Currecks, 416.
Curriculum (Students'), 176-7-
Cushnie, xiv. ; stipend, 7 ; 49, 5°' 60. 66.
69 ; vacant, 89 ; 90, 91, 100, 137,
149, 170, 171, 172, 173, 179 ;
minister settled, 184 ; 196, 199,
205, 218, 222, 223 ; visitation and
elders of, 228; 249, 332, 343, 347 ;
visitation of, for glebe, &c. , 369 ;
approval by bishop, 370; 3^3, 392.
Dalgarne, Arthur, 46, 316.
Dalgarnie, John, 73.
Darge, Rev. Walter, 86 and Notes p. 411.
Davidson, Barbara — sec Barclay, John.
— Isobel — see Thomson, Patrick.
James, 280, 286, 287, 289 295, 296.
Margaret — see Green, Patrick.
— William (minister, Auchindoir), xiv.,
17 ; old age, &c. , of, 39 ; 41, 68 ;
inquiry anent by Presbytery, 169.
Daviot, 282.
Davoch, 416.
Davy, William, help, 326.
Dawson, Margaret (disc.) 324.
Dead, lists of, for Synod, &c., 4 ; for fiscal,
57 ; not sent, 93 ; 141 : register of
to be kept, 168, 210, 335.
Deed (or Bond), lands to Glenbucket, 19.
Doer, Old, morning and evening prayers,
I ; So, 283.
Deer (Presbytery), Old, Book of, 28, and
Notes p. 405 ; vacancies in, 32 ;
51 ; modr,, 63 ; bk., 64 ; modr,,
73 : 80 ; vice modr., 81 ; 85, 95,
103, 104, 106, 124, 141, 168, 203,
207, 211, 269, 282, 283, 284, 303.
Deins, John (Deans), help to, 81, 86.
Den (Kildrummy), 121.
Deposed ministers, enactment as to, 5.
Designations of glebes, grass, fuel, &c.,
Tough, 1 10 ; Keig (not inserted),
123-4 ; Strathdon, 245 ; Cabrach,
269 ; 272, 273 ; to be entered in
Presbytery Books, 342.
Desks in Churches, xvii., 68 ; 72, 80, 100,
122; removing, 156; 157, 158,
164.
Desk ford, 56, 129, 150.
Dilhandie, 101.
Directory of, &c., 2 and Notes p. 400.
424
INDEX.
Discipline, xxxv.-xli. ; regulations as to,
161 : 326 ; form for absolution,
&c., 350 ; 351.
Dishaunters ot ordinances, 29, 43, 53, 58,
63. 66, 10^, in, 198,208.261,
268, 280.
Divinity, study of, 58 ; course for students
of, 176-7 ; 4 years, 200- 1 ; and to
communicate, 201.
Professor of, election of, 79, and
Notes p. 410 ; delegates. 82 ; 83 ;
election, 169 ; 203. 220, 319, 320.
Division of Churches, Towie, 69-71 ;
Tough. 135-137 : Udny. 167 ;
Keig, 224-227 ; to be entered in
Presbytery Monks, 342.
Doctors of Aberdeen, 28 and Notes p. 406,
60, 64, 75.
Don, 49.
Donaldson, Arthur, 316.
Douglas, Meatrix — see Anderson, William.
Douglas, Sir Robert. 72.
Douglas. Rev. William, (Professor), 27.
- (Midmar). 63, 202.
Doxology, people1 to stand at, 5> 33^-
Drum blade (Drumblet), 81.
Drumbreck, 167.
Drumnahoove ( — hive), 122.
Drunkenness, 24 ; and athiestical speeches,
62 ; ill, 122, 189.
Duff, Alexander, 27.'-}.
John (papist), 102.
Duffus, 378.
Dugatt, Agnes, 135.
Dumb persons (consulted as to theft). 207.
281.
Dumbarton — see Leven.
Dunbar, Agnes, 21, 22.
- Alexander, swearing, 345.
— Captain John, 55-
Isobel, (charming), 143.
Margaret (papist), 17. 43, 44. 47,
48, 50, IO2.
Michael, 62, 189, 307, 310.
Robert (minister of Kearn), xiv., 10,
17, 36, 37, 39,4i, 47, 77, 86, 95,
scruples, present government, 96 ;
98, 100, 101, ; to be tenderly
dealt with, 106 ; 107.
William (disc.), 49; fugitive, 60 ;
66 ; blasphemy, 245 ; 256.
Dunblane, bishop of, 306, 332.
Duncan, Alexander, 71.
- George, 322.
William (minister, Kildrummy), xv. ,
15, 16, 23, 69 ; resigns clerkship,
76 : 77-
Dundee (Contributions for Harbour), 154,
155, 159-
1 )unn, John, 393.
Dune, James, (charming), 143.
Durret, Robert, 315.
Dutch, War (fast), 83 and Notes p. 411 ;
victory over, 84.
Dycc. 32.
i )yc. I '.ridge, 64, 72, Si.
Earlsfield. 37, 215.
Easter, Sacrament at, 142, 152, 170. 218.
249, 291, 369.
Kchl, laird of, 64 ; parish, 283. 297.
Fdinburgh, Prethrcn to, 65 ; Act of
Council at, 153.
Fdinglassie, 59, 64.
Education, xli.
Elders, deserting Session, 102.
Files, Patrick (trances, &c. ), 257, 258.
259;
Fllon (parish), morning and evening
prayers in r.
• ( Presbytery of), 51, 59; to discharge
clerk, 59 ; moderator of, 73 ; 78,
81, 104. 105, 118, 124, 134, 141,
153, 168, 202,207, 211, 220, 282
283, 284, 303.
Elmslie, fames, 357.
William, 35!-
Flphinstone, Lord, 70.
William, Schoolmaster, Test, 346.
Elrick, 66.
Fndurno, foggage, &c. , for Tough, no.
135-
Enncrcharrach, 194.
Episcopacy, xxii-xxvi.
•Episcopal Incumbents, x.
•Error, Growth of, 94.
•Eryht, 165.
•Esplin, Elspet, 135.
•Esson, John, 393.
Ewan, Rev. Alexander, 341.
Excommunication, xxxix. ; regulations as
to, 3 and Arotcs p. 402 ; relaxa
tion from, 8 ; II ; lesser, 13 ; 41,
49 ; for murder, 56 ; roll of
persons excommunicated for
Synod, 85 ; 92 ; for popery, 102 ;
105 ; regulations as to, 124 ; Form
of against papists, 126 ; prayer.
127; Form against quakers and
prayer, 127-8 ; Form against those
contumacious and prayer, 128-9 !
none to converse with, 129 ;
fugitives, 129 ; 130 ; list of for
INDEX.
425
popery and quakerism, 142 ;
charmers &c. , 148 ; bishop must
sanction relaxation, 169 ; for
quakerism, 214 ; lesser. 258 ; do.,
287 ; relaxation of, 293 ; 303 ;
intimation of, 355 , as to relaxa
tion from, 359 ; as to society, 369.
Exercise Presbytery.
Exercise and addition, xxix, 9, II, 16, 41,
42, 50, 60, 61, 66, 67 89, 96, 151,
155, 161, 163, 164, 170, 187, 188,
189, 190, IQI, 198, 2O8. 222, 256,
259, 265, 272, 270, 331, 337, 338.
Eyemouth Harbour, 274, 279, 281, 284,
294.
Fairies, &c., 254.
Family worship, ministers, 29, 55.
- others, 30, 35.
Farquhar, Agnes, cursing minister, 194,
199, 270.
- Andrew, 108.
James (Tulloch), 224.
James (Little Cattie), 290.
Patrick, 263, 299.
Robert, help, 294.
Farquhars, Alexander and Patrick (Tonley),
135-
— Arthur (Cults), 352.
Farquharson, Alexander, 356.
Donald (scandal), 115, 116. 120,
244, 375- .
James (Whitehouse, disc.), 63 ;
Francis (elder), 356.
- John, 363.
Robert (minister, Kennethmont),
xv., 258, 259, 273. 286, 287, 300,
302.
— William, 364.
Fasts and Humiliation xxxiv, 65 ; Dutch
War, 83 and Arotes p. 411 ;
warrant for, 85 ; defections to
popery, ^c. , 140; observed, 142 ;
for sins, loss of crops, &c. , 177 ;
obs., 1 80; do., 204; 208; seed
time, 221 ; 228, 230 ; dearth, 248 ;
season, 254 ; 259 ; regulations as
to, 261 ; seed time, 270 ; do.,
272 ; do., 289 ; popish plot, 300
and Notes p. 415; 310; regula
tions as to, 353 ; had season, &c.,
360 ; seed time, 362 ; 363, 364 ;
harvest, 375 ; 376, 383 ; regula
tions as to, 384 ; regulations as to,
385 ; harvest, 386 ; seed time,
387 ; 394-
Feeing servants on Lord's Day. 335.
Fees to (Bishop, Synod) Clerk, for colla
tion, t\:c., 30; do., 53; 60, 75,
81, 86, 92 ; deficients in payment
in Alford Presbytery, 119; 212,
252, 318, 326, 389, 395.
to Janitor, 75, 81, 86, 92, 119, 161,
212, 252, 318, 326.
Fergus, Alaster, and Janet Cran (disc.), 25.
— St. — see St. Fergus.
Ferguson, George (disc.), 72.
William, 383.
Ferres, Rev. John, 74, 341.
Ferror, William and — Melvin, 306, 307,
310.
Fife (County), 79, 385.
Fighting in Strathdon on Lord's Day, 45,
59, 63 ; decision as to, 65 ; 100,
101, 109 ; in Auchindore, &c.,
189.
Findlater, Thomas, help to, 95.
Fines — see Penalties.
Finla, Robert (Notary), 196.
Fintray, 32, 167.
Finzeach (Findzach), 100, 135, 224.
Firrmilne, 316.
Foggage, &c., and regulations as to, 54 ;
Alford. 357 ; Auchindoir, none,
247 ; Cabrach, 382 ; Cushnie,
229 ; 369 ; Forbes, 344 ; Glen-
bucket, 243 ; 383 ; Kearn,
374 ; Keig, 364 ; Kennethmont,
356 ; Kildrummy, 315 ; Leochel,
365 ; Strathdon, 245 ; 375 ;
Tough, no; 345 ; Towie, 246.
Forbes, Alaster — see Forbes, John and
Allaster.
• Alexander (Auchorthies) and wife,
(quakers), 213.
Bishop, help to son of, 380.
• Alexander (Culquharrie), 65, 101,
244, 375-
Alexander (Elrick), quakerism, 66,
348.
• Alexander (Synod Clerk), 50 , ap
pointed, 52 ; 71, 80, 85, 103, 117,
139, 147, 152, 160, 165, 198, 209,
219, 230.
Alexander, appointed to Kearn, xiv,
285, 286, 287 ; settled in, 288 ;
303, 309, 310.
Alexander (disc.), 189, 208.
• Alexander (Pitfichie), 168.
• Arthur (Brux), 167, 369.
• Arthur (Glencarvie), 329.
Arthur (Schoolmaster, Keig), 267,
291 ; trials, 309 ; 313, 315, 317,
318, 320.
HUH
426
INDEX.
Forbes, Rev. George, presented In A 1 ford
and opposed, loS.
- George (( 'ulfork), 121.
James, help to, 210. 241.
Janet (charming). 21 ; trial of. and
Presbytery's decision, 22 ; 32. 49.
John (Rulquhain), 101, 244.
Rev. John (Coldstone), 325.
John (Fdinglassie). 59, 63.
John (Keig), 363.
John (Inverernan) 90, 104, 117,
375-
— John (Ledmakay), 45, 65, TOO, 101.
IO7, lOQ, 112.
John (Leslie), 224.
— John (Petlluge), (disc.). 9; (Bclfiugc),
108.
— Sir John. 348.
— John (stationer), 28, 60, 64, 75.
Margaret, help to, 326.
Lord William, 224, 230, 242, 246 :
presents minister to Kennethmont,
258; do., to Kearn, 285; 295,
322.
Master of 42, 64, 135 ; patron of
Forbes, 387.
• (Parish), xiv., 42. 195, 218, 224;
vacant, 265 ; 266 ; minister
appointed, 267 ; 273 ; settled, 278 ;
323, 326, 332; visitation of, 343;
344, 362, 363 ; appointment to,
387 ; 391-
Peter, help to, 381.
Robert (disc.), 9, II, 12.
Rev. Robert, 26 ; (Coldstone), 149.
Robert (Invererne), 90.
— Thomas (minister of Keig), xiv. ;
lands from Monymusk, 15, 26 ;
valuation of manse, cVc., 98.
— Rev. William, 26.
William (Camphill), 135.
William (Culquharrie), IOI.
William (Newe), fighting on Lord's
Day, 45, 59, 65, 100, 101, 107,
109, 112.
William (Skelliter), 115, 116, 124,
375-
William (Tillyforie), 135.
— William (Tulloch), neglecting
sacrament, 280, 281, 286, 287',
288, 290, 291.
Fordyce, morning and evening prayers at,
I, 282, 312.
(Presbytery), 31, 51, 56, ; modr., 59;
63, 72 ; bk., 78 ; vice-modr. , 81 ;
bk., 78 ; 8 1 ; bk., 86; 104. ; bk..
105; bk., 117; 124, 132, 141;
bk., 153 ; 168, 207, 211, 276, 282,
283, 284, 326.
Fordycc, John and Isobel Irvine (disc.).
280.
Forgue. 58. 68, 282, 283.
For.yth, George and Elspet M'Culloch,
carrying off an unbaptised child.
1 06,
Foulerton, Alexander. 363.
Fovetan, 342.
Fraser, . help to, 263.
George, 393.
Fraserburgh, morning and evening p/ayers,
i. 32.
Fugitives from discipline, 31, 34. 81, 86,
regulations as to, 94 ; 95, 97, 106;
119, 142, 150, 207. 213.241,256.
263, 270, 277, 282. 303, 308, 313 ;
as to, 317 ; 326, 329, 336, 339.
Fife, Isobel — see Mitchell, George,
r'yvie. 141, 341. 380.
Gaelic, xxxiii.
Gairden, Rev. Alexander, modr. of Deer.
73, 81, 104.
[sobel— see Grant, William.
Garden, Rev. Alexander (Forgue), 58. 68.
- Garden bridge, 352, 353, 355, 356,
358, 361, 368. 373.
— George (Minr. Glatt), xiv, 9, 13, 27,
39, 40, 47, 63, 86, loi. 145.
Rev. George (Forgue), 275, 283.
Rev. Dr. George (Aberdeen). 358,
37^, 379, 38° 5 housc, 385 ; 388 ;
do., 389, ; do., 390 ; 391, 394.
— James (bursar). 68.
Rev. Dr. James, 358.
— Rev. James (Newmachar). 209.
— Margaret — see Crichton, William.
Thomas, xiv, trials for licence, 145,
146, 147 ; ordained, 151 ; settled
at Clatt. 156; 157, 158. 159, 162.
165. 170. i So, 182. 184. 186. 197,
230, 242, 244, 269, 272, 288, 294,
300, 301, 313, 321, 323.
— Thomas, consulting sorcerer, 182.
William, student, 277, 280, 301.
304- 305-
Gardner. James (Auchindoir), 247 ; Kearn.
374-
Garioch, John, 364.
- (Parish), 26.
- (Presbytery), 51, 59. 63, 72, 78, So,
Si, 85, 104, 106, 124, 132, 141,
!53, J57, J67, 193, 202, 206, 210,
211, 275, 282, 283, 284, 293, 324.
359-
Rev. William (Culsalmond), 141.
166. 173. 181.
William (Archballoch). 296.
INDKX.
427
Gatioch Rev. \\i\\. (!•'( iilics and Kenneth-
monl) xiv, \v. 217, 221, 222 266 ;
appointed to Forbes, 267 270,
271, 272, 273 ; ap. ckrk of
I'ichliy. , 278 ; settled in Forbes,
278 ; 270, 293, 298 301, 302, 303,
305, 308, 310, 318, 323. 324, 326,
329, 339- 343- 34<J. 34s, 355>
35''- 3»5- 377, 3';4> 39 1-
( iailogie, 93. 104.
(iarrioch, Alexander (student). 222.
George (Bogincuill), 296.
John, excommunicated, 249,
Gartly; 320, 325.
decides, Rev. William. 343.
Gellan, Alexander, 344.
Gibbon, James, 21, 22 ; charming, 143 ;
sentence for, 144 ; 146.
Gibson, Walter, prisoner with Turks, 239,
249.
Gilchrist. John. 374.
( lilmur, William. 160.
Glasgow Assembly, 28.
Glass, William (Minr, Cushny and Kil-
drummy), xiv, xv, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12,
13. 16, 17. 66, 69, 71, 77, 84 ;
settled at Kildrummy, 86 ; 87, 90,
91, 96 ; not to keep " trysts " in
change houses, 103 ; 109, III,
142, 143, 151.
Glebes, xviii, marches of, 207.
Glenbucket, xiv. 9, 13 : lands from Strath-
don to, 14 ; appointment to, 18 ;
lands to, 19 ; 23 ; vacant, 87 ;
appointment to, 89 ; 91, 96 ;
minr. settled, 97 ; 180, 184 ;
mortification, 185 ; do. ,189; 194,
195, 205, 218, 223, 242 ; visita
tion of, 243 ; 244, 307, 311 ;
visitation of, 327 ; 328, 362, 375 ;
visitation of, 383 ; 392.
Glcncarvie, 65, 101, 329, 375.
Glenkindie, lands of to Glenbucket, 14,
205. 246.
lenmuick, 58.
lentnnar — see Aboyne.
ord'.'ti. Adam (bursary). 143.
Rev. Alexander, 141.
Alexander (papist) 102.
Bailie, 380.
Anna (papist), 17, 102.
! hmcan, 243.
Francis (papist, Craig), 17, 102.
- George (Cabrach), 204, (Iladdo)
275-
Rev. George (Banchory), 262.
George (Innercharroch), 194. 204,
275, 382.
Rev. George (Forgue), 282.
Gordon, George (Terpersie), 290.
Hugh (papist) and wife, 17, 43, 47,
48, 50, 102.
James (disc.), 43, 194, 247.
James and Janet Innes (disc.), 15,
14, 15, 17, 20, 23, 24, 25, 35 ;
absolved. 36 ; Janet Innes, 40,
41 ; absolved, 42.
Rev. James (Tough and Alford)
xiv., xv., 13, 27, 48, 50, 63, 65,
66, 69, So, Si, 82, 90, 104.
Rev. James (Banchory), 141, 167,
202, 203, ; quakers and papists,
204 ; 206, 211, 220, 283, 284.
Rev. James (Carnbee), Professor of
Divinity, 319, 320.
James and John, desk in Church,
156, 157, 158.
James (Coull and Soccoh — deposed
minister), 284, 286, 287, 288. 289,
291, 292, 293, 304, 305, 306, 307,
308. 309, 310, 311 ; sentenced to
lesser excommunication, 312 ;
314; to be excom., 316; offers
to satisfy, 317 ; fails, 318 ; 319,
320, 321 ; has left place, 324 ;
Rev. James (Kinkell), 143.
James (Terpersie), 224.
James (Tirrisoull), 273.
— John (elder, Cabrach), 382.
John (Hallhead), 135, 228.
John (Knockespock), 316.
John (Kirkhill), 215, 247, 356.
John (Larg), 181, 194.
John (Pittendreigh, papist), 43, 44,
47, 50, 59-
John (quaker), 213.
• "Margaret, help to, 142.
Patrick (Auchenleith), 247.
Patrick (Cabrach, papist), 102, 146.
Rev. Patrick (Coull), 369.
— i'atrick (Kennethmont, papist) 17,
43, 102.
Patrick, help to. 352.
Peter, 383.
Thomas, help to, 134.
Thomas, and- • Purges, 306.
Thomas (papist), 17, 43, 102.
— Thomas (Pittendreigh), 225.
Walter, 341.
William (Palgowan), 225.
William (P.alhillock), 182.
William (Cabrach), 182.
William (Cracullie), hel
263..:
William (Terpersie, papist),
224, 225 ; Auchindoir, 321
Rev. William, 27.
428
INDEX.
Gordon, William (bursar), 324.
William, schoolmaster, Test, 346.
Gordonmilnc, 352.
Grant, Christina — see Gordon, Patrick.
William (papist), 102.
William (elder, Cabrach), 382.
Gray, Rev. Andrew, 26.
— Elspet — see Gordon, Hugh.
John, schoolmaster, Test, 346.
Rev. William, 27, 72.
Greoshich (Grassick) Alexander, charm
ing, 143 ; sentence, 144 ; 146,
375;
Green, Patrick and Margaret Davidson
(disc.), 48, 67.
Greek and Hebrew, students to know, 103.
Green, William, 316.
Guisers, 31, and Arotcs p. 408.
Gunnan, William, 121.
Guthrie, Rev. Alexander, 369.
Guy, John, fighting on Sab., 121 ; penalty,
122^; 123.
" Habit " of Ministers — See Apparel.
Hallhead, 135, 228.
Ilandfasting, 416.
Hay, David, help, 355-
Hay, Elspet (papist) — see Gordon, Hugh.
— James (disc.), 80.
— Rev. William, 81, 168.
William (Seggieden), 215.
Ilempsteid, help to, 57, 73, 104.
Henderson, Rev. Andrew, 56.
Margaret (disc.), 47.
Herd, Thomas (murderer), 56.
Heritors, burials in church, 41.
Highlanders, 86.
Hood, Robert (papist), and wife, 17, 102.
Hovvbog, 194.
Homer, 416.
Humiliation — see Fasts.
Huntly, Marquis of, to be trained in 1'ro-
testant religion, 29, 273.
Iclell, William, 372.
Innerkeithen — see Inverkeithing.
Innes, Alexander (Sinnahard) (disc.), ill ;
trial of, 112-115 ; insolence of,
115 ; 116, 117, 118 ; sentence,
119, 1 2O ; conduct of, 120 ; 121 ;
appeal, and decision, 132-134 ;
135 ; threatens officer, 138; 143,
144, 146, 147 ; beats officer, 148 ;
153, 155,156; appears, confesses,
decision, 158 ; 159.
Rev. George, 167, 202 ; collector
of Centesima, 334 ; Dr., 359 ;
380, 388.
— Janet — see, Gordon, James.
Innes, Margaret (disc.), 24.
Rev. Robert, 141.
Innkeepers, penny brydals, 67, and Xo!c>
p. 410.
Inns, preachers keeping, 202.
Institution of ministers at. Alford. 8 ;
Auchindoir, 179; Cabrach, 331 :
Clatt, 331 ; Cushnie, 103 ; 184,
Forbes, 278 ; Glenbucket, 97 ;
Kearn, 288 ; Keig, 83 ; Kil-
drummy, 86 ; Strathdon, 85 ;
328 ; Tough, II ; Towie, 84 ;
Tullynessle, 9.
Invercauld, 87.
Invererne, 90.
Inverkeithing, 79, 86, 239.
Inverleithen 108.
Inverness, bridge at, 314, 317, 319, 320,
336, 342-
Invcrnocty — Slrathdon.
Inverury, morning and evening prayers, I ;
72, 202, 213, 241.
Ireland, 325.
Irvin, John (Kincausie), 20.
Irvine, Isobel — see Eordyce, John.
— James, xiv, to Cabrach, 280 ; trials
not satisfactory, 280 ; 285, 288 ;
not give satisfaction, 289 ; 291 ;
ignorant of Greek, 292 ; 314, 321,
323, 326.
— John (Cabrach), xiv, appointed to
Cabrach, 116; 119, 120, 121, 122,
123, 142 ; admonished, 143 ;
complaint against, 144 ; libel,
145; 146, 147 ; tried, 149 ; 150,
151, 152, 155, 156 : faults in
exercise, 157 ; rebuked, 162 ;
163 ; excuses for absence, 164 :
complaints against, 165 ; 166, 172;
trial and decision, 173 : libel by
against certain parishioners, 175,
1 80 ; new charges against, 181 ;
183, 184, 185, 192, 193 ; trial of,
194-5 ! suspended. 196 ; to be
reponed, 206 ; 209 : complaints
by, 223 ; opposes visitation,
242 ; 248 ; complaints against,
254 ; rebuked, 255 ; faults in
exercise ; 256, 266 ; libel against,
275 : deposed, 279 : his pension,
307 ; 311, 318, 334, 339, 385, 390,
395-
Irving, Robert (minr., Strathdon and
Towie) xv, presented to Strath
don, 18 ; 20, 22, 23, 25, 60, 61,
64, 65, 83 ; transl. to Towie, 84 ;
86, 87; absences, 103; 104, 115,
119, 138, 139, 141, 143, 144, 147,
INDEX.
150, 151, 152, 155, 158, 159, 102,
163, 166, 170, 179, 182, iSS, 197,
216, 224, 244, 272, 294, 295, 296,
300, 314 ; mudr., 352, 355.
lark, Isobell (disc.), 56.
(affray, Rev. Alexander, 207, 211.
Rev. Andrew xiv, appointed to
Alford, 305 ; for ordination, 306 ;
stipend, 313 5315, 316, 336 : vice-
inodr., 352, 392.
Rev. William, yor., 56, 59, 72, Si,
104.
Rev. William, elder, So.
Rev. William (Fyvie), scandal
against, 141 ; arrears, Centesima,
381-
Jamieson, John, (disc.), 78.
Rev. John, 341.
Jele, William (schoolmr. ), 277 ; trials for
licence, 345 ; 346, 347, 352, 353.
Johnstone, David, help to, 141.
— Elspet (disc.), 265.
• George (disc.), 208.
William, trials for licence, 327, 328.
329 ; scruples as to test, 329, 3^0 ;
do., 331 ; arrears, Centesima, 381.
Jougs, xxxvii.
Kandacraig, 45.
Kathcrin (Cateran), 77.
Kearn, xiv. ; vacant, 223 ; 230, 242, 244,
268 ; appointment to, 285 ; 287,
331, 371 ; visitation of, 374 ; 376,
383.
Kebbars, 417.
Keig, xiv. ; lands to, from Monymusk, 15 ;
16, 17, 20, 29, 37, 40, 42, 43.44,
46, 47, 49, 50, 53, 61 ; vacant,
7°, 77, 78 ; vacancy supplied, 83 ;
valuation of manse, iSic., 98 ;
Alexander Inncs, in; witnesses
against, 112 ; scandal in, by
Innes, &c., 115; 116, 120; de
signation of fail, &c. , 123 ; 134,
167, 168, 195, 202, 209, 218 ;
division of Church, 223 ; 228 ;
rental of, 226 ; approval by
bishop, 227-8 ; 262 ; schoolmr.,
267 ; 271, 280, 283, 286, 287, 289;
division of Church, 290 ; 296, 309,
313 ; vacant, 330; 331, 332, 336,
33«, 345, 346, 362, 363, 365 ;
visitation of, 363 ; 369, 371, 372.
384, 388, 392.
Keith, 25.
Dr., 280.
- George (reader, Slains), 92, 104,
118, 134.
Keith, Rev. John, 104, 141, 275, 284, 325,
327, 378.
\\ illiam (Garlogie), 93, 104.
Kelburne, Harbour, 79, 86.
Kellis, Alexander, 246.
Duncan, 243.
James, 194.
Katherine, 182.
Kelman, Margaret — see Duff, John.
Kemnay, 52, 355.
Kennethmont, xv. ; papists in, 17; lead
ing minister's corn on Sabbath,
36 ; case tried, 37-39 ; 40, 42 ;
papists, 43 ; do., 44 ; corn lead
ing, 46 ; 48, 49, 50, 60, 61, 62, 64,
66, 67, 68, 75, 76, 77, 78, 82, 83,
84, 87 ; visitation of, 87 ; bk.,
91 ; do., 96 ; do., 97 ; errors in
bk., 99 ; do., 101 ; papists in,
102; bk., 106, 171, 1 86, 195;
helper to minr., 197 ; 202 ; visita
tion of 214-216, 218 ; helper,
252 ; appointment to, 258 ; 281 ;
papists in, 302 ; valuation of
manse, 321 ; 323, 337, 338, 346 ;
visitation of, 356 ; 372, 391, 393.
Tver, Alexander (Kildrummy), 152, 315,
393-
- Andrew (minr., Glenbuckel), xv. ;
old age, &c. , 8 ; dead, 10.
Major John, help to, 93.
— William (disc.), 198, 199.
William, disturbance in Church,
121 ; vindicated, 122.
Kethmor, 273.
Kildrummy, xv., 8, 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 21,
23, 24, 35, 36, 37, 40, 41, 42, 43,
47, 48, 6O, 62, 67, 69, 121, 122,
123 ; minr. dead, 152 ; 155, 156,
157, 158, 159 ; appointment to,
161 ; 165, 189, 195, 208, 218, 224,
242 ; schoolmr., 267 ; 299, 300,
301, 305, 310, 314 ; visitation of,
3r5 5 31?, 320, 321, 324, 345, 346,
353, 356, 357, 362, 369, 371, 372,
376. 377, 39i, 392 ; visitation of,
393; bk., 395.
Nether, 121.
Kilmarnock, contribution to, 160, 165, 166.
Kincardine O'Xcil (Parish), morning and
evening prayers, i ; 51, 63, So,
149, 217, 379, 381, 388.
• (Presbytery), 18, 20, 31, 32, 51 ;
1'k., 575 59, 63, 73, 755 bk.,7S;
So, 81 ; bk., 85 ; 104 ; bk., 105 ;
do., 117; 132, 141 ; bk., 153 ; do.,
167 ; 206, 211, 212, 275, 281, 282,
283, 284, 285, 294, 325.
Kinbattock — Towie.
430
INDEX.
KiiuYiiiMe, 20.
Kincraigie, 135.
Kinellar, 32.
Kind's College, 3, 50, (14, 72 ; elect I 'rot.
of l)iv., 79, 104 ; Prof of l)iv.,
169 ; 331- 3<S6-
Kirk (Synod meetings in), i. 26, 51,
03, 71, 74, 78, 82. 85, 117. 132,
140, 147, 150, 152. 15$, 161, 1 66,
173. 109, 207. 200, 214. 219. 221,
231, 241. 250. 250. 268, 274, 277,
282, 294, 332," 330, 349, 354,
357- 364- 3W', 373, 37", 37^ 384,
388, 392, 395.
Kinkcll, 143 : (Quakers' School. <\c.. vfO.
Kintore, morning and evening prayers, i,
43-
Earl of, 332.
Kirk, William, 280.
Kirkhill, 36, 37. 43, 50, 102. 215.
Kirk-Session, \\viii, 3 and A'o'es p 401.
Kirkton, xxi.
Kirktown, of Alford, 296 ; Cabrach, 106 ;
182 ; Tough, foggage, ixc. to
minr. . no.
Knockespock, 316.
Knotts at marriages, 73.
Knox's Liturgy — see Book of Common
Order.
Laing, Margaret (disc.), cursing and scold
ing after sacrament, 247.
Laird of Cushnie, 249.
- of Glenbucket, legacy to poor, 243 ;
scandal, 325, do., 327.
Laing, Alexander, 344.
William, 344.
Lang, William (disc.), 75.
Languages, trials on, 9, 77, 78. 90. 97,
112, 121, 146, 162, 163, 171, 181.
185, 192, 193, 217, 258, 263, 270,
278, 285, 292, 294, 301,314,321,
332, 330, 344, 345, 384, 387> 392-
Larg, 181, 194.
Lascaris, Mercurius, captive with Turks,
303, 3°4, 3.07-
Laud's Liturgy, xxxi.
Laurence Fair, 355.
Law, good man of and Mr. Cheyne. 164.
— James, 375.
Leasing making, 380, 386, 393, 394.
Leask, Rev. Alexander (Maryculter), not
subscribe canonical obedience, 32.
Rev. James, 370,
Lcdmakay, 45, 101, 101, 107, 109, 112.
Leech, William (disc.), 286. 289.
Leith, Alexander, 280, 289.
Bessie, cursing, 305, 310, 314.
— • Uavid (disc.), 24.
Lcith, ( ieorge, 363.
Patrick, 356.
Leochel. xv. , 21, 49, :;o, 6i, 103, 105, 1 2o,
123, 134. 160, 179. 182. 184, 188,
195, 198, 199; vacant. 330; pre
sentation to. 330 ; vahrition ol
manse, &c., 347 ; 349, 353, 357 ;
visitation '^365 ; 377, 302.
Leslie. 224. 225, 302, 321, 325. 327, 380,
- Alexander, 363.
(ieorge, 66.
- George and Patrick (Kincraigie),
135-
- John (student), xiv. , 66, 67. 68, 75,
7^, 77 ! ignorant of Hebrew. 78 ;
89, 90, 91, 96, 97 ; trial.-,
approven, 99; settled at Cushny,
103 ; 109, 13, 138, 139, 143, 149,
!5°. 155, ISO- 163.
— John, clerk of Presbytery, 393.
William (Kelburn Harbour), 79.
Lcsmore, 142.
Lesmurdie, 102.
Leven {Dumbarton), bridge, 351, 353. 355.
356, 361, 369, 373.
Ley, 121.
Licences for seeking help, 54, 74. 142, 241,
256, 263/351. _
Licensed young men (licentiates), lists of,
for bishop, 200 ; to preach before,
205.
Licensing young men, course of study, kc.,
3 and Notes 402.
Linnc (Lynd), Alexander, help to, 240,
242. 263. 285, 326. 336, 352, 355.
Little Endovie, 348.
Litster, Alexander (student), 278, 279.
Liturgy in Old Psalm Book, to be used at
morning and evening prayers, I
and Notes p. 398.
Livingstone. Rev. Andrew (Keig), xiv. ; to
Keig, 332 ; 336, 337 f for ordina
tion, 338 ; 381, 392.
Loar^tone. 104. 118. 134.
Lochans, 65, 100, 101. 112.
Logic , 210.
Logiedurno, visit, of, 202, 213.
Lonmay, 28, 54.
Lord's Day. profanation of. 18, 24 ; how
to lie kept, 30:31 ; leading corn
on, 36 ; lighting <\;c. on, 45 ;
Act as to observance. 55 ;
blaspheming, <\:c. in Church, 57,
61, 66, 67, 77, 95 ; fighting on,
100 ; fighting in Church, 121 ;
123 ; carrying timber \c. to
markets on, 175 ; drinking <.\:c.
on, 189 ; 198 ; fishing on, 207 ;
INDEX.
431
218, 259 ; dancing on, 324 ; pro
fanation of, 335 ; 355.
Lord's Supper, contempt of 67 ; observance
of to l>e entered in Presby. books,
93 : observed, 142 ; 143, 145, 152,
'57> !59> 1 60, 162, 170, 171, 186,
[87, 188, 195. 198, 200, 212 ;
staying a\\ay from, 218 ; 220 ;
neglect of in Strathdon, 245,
observed, 249 ; Form debarring
from, 251 ; regulation as to, 252,
speaking blasphemously of, 256 ;
contemners of, 265 ; observed,
267 ; neglect of, 269 ; 280 ;
observed, 281 ; 283, 287, 293.
307 ; observed, 318 ; 329, 358.
365, 369, 376, 384, 395-
Lords of Surrender of Tithes, 344.
Lo\s ranee, James, murder of, 129.
Lumphanan. 166.
! .umsden, Alexander, 369, 370.
Lumsden. Arthur (Clova), 121 ; New-
toune, 247, 322.
John, Sabbath breaking, «N;c., 67.
John, 249 ; Cushnie, 370.
William, fishing on Lord's Day,
3°9. 3I4-
Lunan, Rev. Alexander, 211, 282.
Lyall, Rev. David, 152, 160, 167, 178,
204.
Mackanla, John (Lesmurdie). 194.
Macken/.ie, Roderick, marriage of. 87.
Mackgillchrist, Thomas, 144, 145, 146.
Mackie, George, 374.
Mackie, Robert (schoolmaster), 267 ; Test,
346.
Mackie, William, help to, IO2, 107, 109,
III, 112, 115.
Mair, Francis, 121.
John (minr, Tough), xv, trials, 7 ;
settled at Tough, u ; 12, 13, 14 :
as to lands from Monymusk, 15 ;
24, 50, 60 ; appointed clerk
of 1'resby., 76, 83, 89, 91, 95,
97. 108, 117, 121, 122, 123, 135,
143. 147, 150, 152, 158, 159, 165,
171, 172, 188, 208,221, 230,272,
2S6, 287, 290, 291, 296, 303, 315.
347-
.Manses, glebes, &c., xviii. ; enactments as
to, 30, 53-
Mar. Earl of, minr. for Strathdon, 13, 14 ;
presents to Strathdon and Glen-
bucket, 1 8 ; 64, 69 ; presents to
Cabrach, 116 5280; presentation
to Cabrach, 330.
Marischal, Earl, Peterhead Harbour. 4.
Markets on Lord's Day, 175.
Marno, Christian, 223.
Marnoch, John, 382.
(Marnoke), William, 383.
Married, living as, 105 ; married dis
orderly, 130 ; 359.
Martin, Rev. Nathanael, 28 nnd AWrv
p. 405 ; 64.
Maryculter, 32, 303.
Mathie, John, help to, 134.
William, 357.
Mathieson, John, 356.
M'Innes, James, 17.
M'Kallan, Elspet, cursing mother. 242,
258.
M'Kallaster, Donald, fighting on Lord's
Day, 45, 100, 101.
M'Kcook, Wiliiam, 243.
M'Kgregore, Ewan. 246.
M'Kommie, Patrick (charming), 8,9. 12,
14, 15. 17, 20, 23, 24^ 25. 35, 36,
40, 41 ; consulting as to stolen
goods, 182 ; 184.
M'Lachlan, Donald, 292.
M'William, William, 307, 308, 309, 310.
Meldrum, Andrew, help to, 263.
Rev. George (Fintray), glebe. 32,
104, 167, 202, 26.1 ; collector of
Centesima, 269 ; 277, 283, 319 ;
statement of accounts of Cente
sima, 333 ; 334.
Rev. William, 104, 132, 141, 166.
Mclvil (Melvin), Rev. George, modr. of
Ellon, 73, 81, 104; at Alford,
141 ; modr., 144; 159, 173, 197,
211, 216, 255, 296; as to col
lection for Montrose captives, 303 ;
369-
Rev. George (Alford), xiv.
Melvin — see Terror, William.
Men/ies, Janet (disc.), 311.
Menzies, Rev. John, 27 ; I'rof. 54 ; 63, 93,
1 68, 185, 192, 193, 202.206,211,
22O, 262, 284 ; Synod sermon,
334 5 34i, 345-
Mercer, Rev. John, 26 ; has not signed
Canonical obed., 32.
Merchand, John (disc.), 259, 264, 267, 271,
273, 279.
Messer, Robert, 246.
Methlick, 166, 240, 326.
Michie, Alexander (Lochans), 65.
- John (Ord), 65.
Robert (Glencarvie), 65, 101, 244.
Thomas, 244, 375.
Middleton, Rev. Alexander, 27 ; Principal,
59 ; 81, 104.
Rev. George, 331, 379.
Midmar, 63, 203.
Migvie— see Tarland.
432
INDEX.
Milnr-, Adam and |cnn Anderson (disc.).
123.
Alexander, 228, 364.
David (chaplain and minr., Glen
bucket), xiv, 10, u, 12, I ], 14,
15, 17 : presented to Glenbuoket.
18 ; 23. 25, 42, 44, 47, 71, 205.
James, leading corn on Sabbath, 64,
66. '
John (Dilhandie), 101.
- John (Ord), 101.
- John (Tough), 344.
Robert, to Forbes, 387, 388, 392.
William, consulting sorcerer, 182 ;
Cabrnch, 320, 324.
Miltmme (Glenbucket), 243.
Ministers, since 1649 to obtain anew
collation and presentation, 6 and
Notes p. 404 ; where patron not
known. 6 ; enactments as to, 27 ;
apparel of, 34 ; as to deposed, 34 ;
reviling, 46 ; as to scandalous
reports against, 174-5.
Ministerial duties. Presbyteries to have
discourses on. 256 ; discourses on,
264, 290, 291, 308, 314, 320, 328,
331. 332,33^,346, 355, 357- 365,
372, 376, 384.
Minnar (Mr.nar). 291.
Mintie, Margaret— see Name, Robert.
Mitchell, Rev. Alexander, 166.
- Alexander, schoolmr., test, 346;
slandering minr. of Kildruivnny,
371 ; trials, 372.
- George and Isobell Fyfe (disc.), 21.
John and Isobell Edwarcl (disc.),
271.
Robert, consulting sorcerer, 182 ;
and wife contemning Sacrament,
265.
Rev. William, not submitting to
present government, 32.
William (elder, Alford), refusing to
collect in Church, 101, 102, 106.
Moderators of Presbyteries appointed by
bishop, xxviii., 7, 34, 59, 63, 74 ;
and vice-moderators, Si; 268, T,^6,
, ~>~> i
355- 362.
Money belonging to poor, 219.
Monlettie, 240.
Monquhiter, 57, 74, 211, 282.
Montkeigie, 202, 213 ; quaker in, 213.
Monross (Montrose), 294, 303.
Montgarrie, 316.
Monymusk, morning and evening prayers,
I ; 8, 11, 15, 80, 106, 168/283,
284, 325.
Moor, Alexander, 243.
Donald, 244.
Moor, Dr. Andrew, 56.
William, 215
Mor, Patrick, 363.
Moray, diocese of, 21, 381.
Morgan, Alexander, 348.
Morgan, Duncan. 243.
James, 228, 322.
William (schoolmaster), 101.
Morning and evening prayers, where to be,
I.
Morricc, Elspct,
John, 182.
Mortifications, account to be given of,
J54'5, !77, 184, 185, 186, 189 ;
Act anent, 294 ; to be recorded,
205 ; account of, 296; for minrs.
widows, 308 ; in Kildrummy,
315 ; in Clatt, 316 ; in Tully-
nessle, 316 ; in Strathdon, 329 ;
regulations as to, 342 ; in
Cushnie, 343 ; in Tough, 344 ;
in Kenncthmont, 356 ; in Alford,
357 ; in Keig, 363 ; in Kearn.
374 ; in Strathdon, 375 ;
Cabrach, 382 ; Glenbucket, 383 ;
Kildrummy, 393.
Mortimer, William, 357.
Mortlach, lands from to Cabrach, 26, 31,
54 : other matters, 72 ; 80.
Mossat, 121.
Mosstown, 17, 43, 50. 102.
Mowat, Rev. Alexander, 211, 275, 302,
321. 323, 325. 327.
Murder, by Forbeses, in Alford, 90. 103-4,
117 ; in Deskford, 129 ; to
satisfy in sackcloth, 129.
Mure, Rev. James, 27, 141.
Murray. Agnes (papist). 102.
- George, 247.
William (student), 181, 192, 193,
195. 196, 197, 198, 207.
Myle, David (minr., Glenbucket), xiv.
Myln, George (clerk of Synod), 7, 34;
resigns office, 52.
Name, Robert and Margaret Mintie, S.
Needfire (curing cattle), 144, 417.
Nerne, Thomas, 244.
Ness Bridge, 312.
Nether Aforsque, 348.
Newe, 45, 59.63, 100, 101, 107, 112.
Newe and Edinglassie, attempt to recon
cile. 63.
New Machar, 209, 379.
New Milne (Auchindoir), 247. 322.
Newtounc (Auchindoir), 247.
Nodes, Archibald, 383.
Notary (Notar) Public, 145, 202.
INDEX.
433
Oarc, Rev. Arthur, 193.
James (student), trials, 193, 195,
196, 197, 198, 199, 208.
Oaths, of purgation, 125 ; before magi
strates, 207.
Ogilvie, Alexander and Margaret Anderson
(disc.), 22, 25.
Mary — see Hood, Robert.
Robert, consulting sorcerer, 182.
Ogston, George, help to, 241.
Old Machar — see St Machar.
Oldownie, 194.
Ord, 65, i or.
Oyne, 166, 173, 181, 202, 214, 241, 275,
379, 388.
Paip, Janet, help to, 355.
Papists, names of to bishop, 2 and Notes
p. 400; 16 ; in Auchindoir, &c.,
17 ; 20, 23, 29, 43, 44, 47, 48, 50,
53, 56, 63, 94 ; in parishes, 102 ;
104, 106, 107, rog ; excommuni
cated, 124 ; Form of excom.,
125-6 ; plot, 300 and Notes p. 415;
302 ; lists of to bishop, 34 r.
Parliament, Acts of, stipends, 58 ; help
to Dundee, r54; as to Lord's Day,
335-
Paterson, Thomas, 316.
William (disc.), 103.
Patrons of Kirks, 58.
Patton, Professor John, to Leochel, xv. ,
330, 348.
Pedagogues, to be licenced by bishop, 5.
Pelagius, 306.
Penalties, xxxviii. ; to be inserted in ses.
books, 3r ; for absence from
Presbytery, 31-2; from Church,
53 5 given to bursars, 67 ; 72 ;
account of, 83 ; 87, 122 ; money
for relaxation, 336.
Penance in different Churches, 18.
Penny Bridals, 67 and Notes p. 410 ; 82,
261.
Pentecost, 218.
Perambulations, lands of Strathdoveran,
31 ; Alford and Kincardine, 31 ;
Mortlach and Cabrach, 54;
Strathdon and Glenmuick, 58 ;
Aboyne and Glentanar, 80 ; Glen-
kindie and Culquich to Glen-
bucket, 206.
Perseus, Prologue of, 267.
Persons for oversight of people, 3.
Peterhead, morning and evening prayers,
r ; Harbour, 4 ; 32, 55, 56 ;
session book, 64 ; Harbour, 79 ;
298, 302, 304, 307, 3ir, 336, 361,
368, 373, 386.
Ill
Petfliige, 9.
Petric, Janet, cursing, &c. in Church, 286,
296.
Pewterer, 80.
Philorth, Laird of, presenting minrs. 32
and Notes p. 409.
Pirie, Agnes (charming), none to consult,
56-7-
Pirrie, James (Cults, papist), 43, 44, 47,
48, 50, 102.
Pitsligo, 32, 341.
Pitsligo, Lord, 32 and Notes p. 409.
Pittendreigh, 43, 59, 225.
Pittenweem, captives, 311, 319.
Pollonian students, 54, 66, 74, 93, ro2, ro4,
107, 109.
Pooll, 36.
Poor, support of, 254, 257, 283.
Popish Universities, children not to be sent
to, 29, 299.
Popular Sermon, 12, r6, r8, 23, 24, 77, 89,
96, IIT, 121, 145, r59, r7o, r87,
208, 222, 259, 273, 285, 289, 320,
327, 329, 352, 387.
Portsoy Harbour, 312, 315, 317, 336.
Postures in worship, 5, 27, 292-3.
Prayers, morning and evening, places
where, r.
Public, for King, Church, &c. , 5.
Preachers, must be authorised by bishop,
200 ; attend Presbyteries, 201 ;
as to holding civil offices, 202 ;
seditious and disorderly, proceed
ings against, 340.
Presbyterianism, xi.-xv.
Presbytery, xxviii. ; licensing if bishop
absent, 33 ; William Burnet
licensed by, 36 ; constituting, &c.,
340.
— Books — see Books.
Meetings, fine for not attending, 49 ;
those late for meetings, 22r ;
obedience to, 240 ; 26r.
Private Baptism and Communion, 2 ;
baptism, 92.
Privy Censure (Presbytery), 26 and Notes
p. 405 ; 50, 62, 78, 87, 91 ;
two minrs. admonished, ro3 ; ir7,
*39 5 regulations as to, 140 ; r47,
r52, rs6, 162, 170, i7r, r8o, r88,
I9T, 192, 196, 208, 2r7, 222 ; one
minr. rebuked, 223 ; order for,
238-9; report against one minr.,
249 ; inquiry as to effect of, 253 ;
264, 273, 278, 281, 304, 308, 315,
320, 328, 332, 346, 354, 357, 363,
365, 377, 381, 386, 388, 394-
— Synod, 26 and Notes p. 405 ; 333,
355, 36i, 368, 373, 39i-
434
, ,
appointed at each Synod,
- Council — see Counril.
Procurator Kiseal, lists of dead to, 57, 9.5,
141, i6S, 210, 335.
Profanity, 94-5- '4°> ~OJ-
I'rofessor of Divinity -see Divinity. Pro
fessor of.
I'urgations — see oath of.
Puritanism, xx.
(Quakers, 29 and Notes p. 407 ; 53, 63 ;
Alford, 66 ; 94, IOI ; account of,
104 ; summonses against, 106 ;
127 ; defections to, 140 ; 142 ;
grievances against, 204 ; 213,
220 ; meeting house and school
to he demolished, and other
measures against, 340 ; 341, 368.
Ouestionary trials. 9, 35, 36, 76, 90, 97,
112. 121, 146, 162, 163, 185, 186,
i<)2. 195, 217, 258 ; no diet for,
269 : 270, 285, 292, 327, 345,
3S7, 393-
Rae, Isohel (disc.), 9.
Ramsay, Colonel Alexander, contribution
for, 5.
Rape, 49, 61, 80, 123.
Rathen, 95.
Rathven, 28, 56, 355.
Rawes, 105.
Rayne, 202, 206, 214, 284.
Readers, in every congregation, I and
Notes p. 397 ; service of, i ; 2 ;
must be authorised by bishop, 2 ;
catechism for, 359 ; ministers to
attend, 360 ; prayers for, 366.
Recusants, 53.
Redford, 182.
Reed, John, 239.
Reedford, Jean (papist), IO2.
Referrs of Synod, n, 37, 77, 107, 147,
159, 164, 165, 170, 184, 317,
338, 394-
Reid, Archibald (Endurno), 135 ; (Alford)
357 ; (Glenbucket), 383.
— James (disc.), 13, 265.
John, cursing, 273.
Marjorie (charming) and Elspet
Thomson, 24, 25 ; decision of
Presbytery, 26; 32, 35, 36, 37,
40, 42, 44, 46, 47, 49, 60.
Robert (Ley), 121, 122.
Robert (Newmilne), 247, 322.
Rev. Robert, 80, 8l, 104, 141, 206,
293. 325-
Reid, William (charming), 143 ; sentence,
144 ; 146.
\Villiam (Pittendreigh), 224, 225.
Rennie, Andrew (Slack), 215.
- James, 355.
John, 374.
Repentance Stool, xxxvi ; place of. 48 ;
67.
Reynold, Rev. Alexander, 207, 21 1.
Rev. Robert, 81, 91 ; clerk of
Synod, 132, 134, 141.
Rhynic. 372.
Rires, Rev. William, scandal against, 28
and Notes p. 406.
Ritchie, Walter (minr. of Forbes), xiv, II,
13,42, 77, 84, 87, 95, 97, ioo,
108, 143, 144, 147, 150, 151, 152,
155, 170, 195, 223, 224, 228, 230.
William, help to, 107.
William, 296.
Robertson, Alexander (IJelchilie), 194.
ISailie, 380.
- (ieorge, 135.
- James (Syde), 215.
Rev. John, modr. of Deer, 73.
John (schoolmaster), xv, 267 ;
student, 294 ; 295, 296, 297 ;
appointed to Strathdon, 321 ;
324, 327 ; settled, 328 ; 329 ;
arrears Cenlesima, 381, 391.
John (elder), 356.
Rev. Thomas, xiv ; arrears Cente
sima, 381 ; 392.
Robson, Rev. John, 63.
Roger, James, 374.
Roll (Synod) called, 26, 51, &c., called
each Synod.
Ronald, George, 247.
Rose, Rev. Dr., 359.
Rosehearty Harbour, 336, 343, 351, 353,
355-
Ross, Alexander, 321.
- Alexander, help to, 285.
Rev. Alexander (Deer), 27, 211.
Rev. Alexander (Monymusk), 8, 59>
63, 80, 81, 104, 141. 168, 206,
283, 284.
— Rev. Arthur, 27, 63.
Elspet (disc.), 301.
— James (minr., Strathdeveran and
Cabrach), xiv., 12, 17, 20, 26, 41,
42, 44, 77, 82 ; absent, looseness
of country, 86 ; 92, 95 ; removed
to Tarland and Migvie, 116 ; 255 ;
son of, help to, 379.
Rev. James (Cluny), 203.
— Jean, 199.
Jean — see Forbes, Tulloch.
INDEX.
435
Ross,
John (janitor), 161.
Rev. John (Foveran), 284.
John (Strathdon), 244.
I'atrick, help to, 142.
Robert (Cushnie). 228.
Rev. Thomas. 32, 33.
Agnes, blasphemy, 01.
Alexander, 382.
Janet — see Stewart, Thoina:-
John, 194.
Thomas, 223.
Sabbath profanation — sec Lord's Day.
Sackcloth (in sacco), 24 ; charmers to
satisfy in. 32 ; and barefooted,
37 ; do., 40 ; 48, 49 ; murderer,
56: 62, 67, 72, 73, 76, 77,
122. 120; charmers, <.\;c. 149;
iS4. 185", 205, 271, 323, 329. 356,
381, 417.
Sacrament— see Lord's Supper.
Sandison, Rev. John, help to. 381.
Satisfying in different Churches — sec
Penance.
Sauchcn. 348.
Scandals on ministers, against William
I affray and Andrew Abercrombie,
141 ; John Irving, 144 ; regula
tions as to, 174.
Scandalous persons, procedure against,
124.
Schools and schoolmasters, authority from
bishop, 5 ; visit Alford, 13 ; 15 ;
where art', 58 ; help to Banchory,
74 ; Alford and Tullynessle, 97 ;
schoolmr. of Tullynessle relinked,
98 ; inquiry as to school mrs. and
their maintenance, 174 : to take
oath of allegiance, 240 ; do., 249 ;
supply of, 258 ; Oath of Allejr.,
266-7 ; to be visited yearly, 278 ;
one in Rildrummy, 315 ; none in
Clatt, 316 ; to take Test, 342 ;
none in Forbes, 343 ; one in
Tough, 344 ; take Test, 346 ;
Kennethmont, none, 350 ; in
Alford, one, 357 ; Leoche!. none,
365 ; Kcig, one, 363 ; Kearn,
none, 374 ; Strathdon, one, 375 ;
Cabrach, none, 382 ; (ilenbucket,
one, 383 ; Kildrummy, one, 393 ;
Towie, 393.
Scott, John (Oldownie) 194.
Margaret (disc.), 214.
Scougal, Rev. Henry (Auchterless), 203
and Arofcs p. 413 ; Professor of
Divinity, 210; steps for exami
nation of, 211-212; 231, 262,
283.
Scougal, Patrick — sec Bishops of Aberdeen.
Scrogie, Rev. William, 27, 28, 56, 59, 73.
Scaton, Rev. Alexander (Banff), 73, 104,
207, 211, 219.
— Rev. Alexander (Cushnie and
Insch), xv., 63 ; rebuked, 347 ;
arrears Centesiina, 381 ; 392.
— Alexander (bursar), 208, 242.
Rev. John, case against, 88-9 and
Notes p. 412, 91.
Rev. William (Drumblade), 81, 208.
Rev. William (Logic 1 Indian and
Methlick), 27, 59, 73.
Sectaries, &c., Acts against, 53.
Sedgwick, alleged plagiarism from, 180.
Seggieden, 215.
Semple, fohn, help to, 81.
Session Books — see Books.
Shaletti, Paul (few), help to, 141 and Notes
p. 412.
Sharp, George, schoolrnr., 372, 374.
Sheiuvell (Shewcll), 102.
Slierar, Margaret— see Spcnce, Alexander.
Sheriff, court at Alford, 119.
Shirrelf, John, 316.
Shirrer, Alexander (Auchinleith), 121, 122.
James (Mossal), 121.
ohyde, James, 382.
Sibbald, Rev. Patrick, 166, 202, 207, 213,
221, 251, 278 ; Dr., 358 ; 379.
Sinnahard, in, 117, 118, 132, 153.
Sivewright, — , 320.
Skelliter, 115, 116, 120, 244, 375.
Skene, Rev. Andrew, 27, 81, 104, 141.
Slack, 215.
SI u'ns, Reader in, 92, 134.
Smith, Alexander (Birkenbrcul), 247,
James (Clatt), 46; (Clnny) casting
knotts at marriages, 73 ; (Kil-
drummy) lighting ivc. in time of
sermon, 189 ; (Stralhdon) killing
dog&c. 301 ; 304, 316, 321, 323.
Janet (disc.), 14.
John (Ardwell), 194.
.Margaret, 286, 289.
Robert, desk in Auchindoir Church,
68.
William, 357.
Snowie, Patrick, 98.
Soccoh, 102, 289, 291, 292.
Spence, Alexander, and .Margaret Sherar
(disc.), 46, 48, 50.
- Jerome, 383.
St. Andrews, 29, 303.
St. Giles, causes of riot in, xxxi.
St. Fergus, 63.
St. Machar (Old Machar), meetings of
Synod, 26, 51, 148, 152, 160,
436
INDEX.
166, 173, 219, 231, 251, 260, 268,
282, 293, 338, 378.
St. Nicholas Kirk, 152.
St. Surfs Fair, 355.
Stephen, Alexander, schoolmr., Test, 346.
Stewart (Stuart), Alexander, riot in Turritl
Kirk, 73, 80.
- Alexander (Cabrach), 193, 195, 204.
James (Lesmurdie, papist), 102, 204.
John, 307, 308, 309, 310.
Thomas, Robert, and Alexander
(Alaster), Thomas, lands of
Strathdiveran, 26 ; complaints
against minr., 144; 145, 146;
Thomas, Robert and Alaster re
moving desk, 156 ; 157, 164, 165 ;
complaint against minr, 165 ; 166,
175, 181 182.
William, 316.
Stipends, xv. ; providing for Churches, 30 ;
53 ; complaint minr. of Glen-
bucket as to, 205 ; Presbyteries
and, 205 ; augmentations, 261 ;
of Kennethmontj 356, ; Kearn,
3/4 : Strathdon, 375 ; Cabrach,
382 ; Glenbucket, 383 ; Kil-
drummy, 393.
Stirdes, James, 364.
Stonehyvc (Stonehaven), 298, 302, 311,
336, 361, 368, 373, 385.
Storms, 9, 10, 62, 75, 76, 90, 138, 150,
151, 182, 191,209, 221, 257, 272,
288, 299, 301, 306, 307, 321, 329,
330, 347, 352, 353, 362.
Strachan (Straquhan, &c.).
Rev. Alexander, 26.
Rev. Andrew, 52.
Rev. Arthur, 166, 182, 21 1, 208,
^276, 283, 325.
Elspet (papist), 102.
Rev. George, 200, 205, 282.
Helen — see Ogilvie, Alexander.
Isobel (disc.), 265, 266, 271.
Rev. James, 81, 104, 132, 141, )66,
173, 181, 202, 214, 241, 269, 275,
325-
James (elder), 375.
Rev. John, 104, 141, 202, 211.
— John (Cabrach), speaking in Church,
165, 172, 194.
Patrick (disc.), 265.
Strangers in parishes, regulations as to, IO,
21, 45-6, 94, 275.
Strathbogie, 105.
Strathdeveron, papists in, 26 ; lands to
Cabrach, 26 ; papists in, 102.
Strathdon, xv., 12, 14, 15, 16 ; presenta
tion to, 1 8 ; lands from, to Glen-
bucket, 19 ; 21, 23 ; scandal in,
fighting on Lord's Day, 45 ; 59,
65, 100, 101 ; minr. suspended,
105 ; 107, 109, in, 115, 116,
120, 141, 143, 144, 158, 171, 172;
omissions in Session liook. 179 ;
195, 205 ; visitation of and elders,
244-5 ; 256, 258, 259, 301 ;
minr. to, 321, 338, 346, 363 ;
visitation of, 375 ; 391.
Strichen, 282.
Students for licence — see Young men.
Supplicants for charity — see Licences for
help.
Sutherland, Rev. Adam, 378, 380.
Sutherland, Elspet — sec Anderson, John.
Syde, 36, 37, 215.
Synod, xxx.
Synod of Aberdeen meetings — October,
1662, I ; October, 1663, 26 ;
October, 1664, 50 ; April, 1665,
63 ; October, 1665, 71 ; May,
1666, 78 ; October 1666, 85 ;
April, 1667, 92 ; October, 1667,
103 ; April, 1668, 117 ; October,
l66S, 134 ; April, 1669, 139 ;
October, ,1669, 148 ; April, 1670,
152 ; October, 1670, 160 ; April,
1671, 166; October, 1671, 173 ;
October, 1673, 199 ; April, 1674,
209 ; October, 1674, 219 ; April,
1675, 23! ; October, 1675, 250 ;
April, 1676, 260; October, 1676,
268 ; April, 1677, 274 ; October,
1677, 282 ; April, 1678, 293 ;
October, 1678, 298 ; March, 1679,
302 ; April, iGSo, 311 ; October,
1680, 318; April, 1681, 325 ; (no
record for October, 1681, and
April, 1682), October, 1682, 332;
April, 1683, 339 ; October, 1083,
349 ; April, 1684, 354; October,
1684, 358 ; October, 1685, 366 ;
April, 1686, 373 ; October, 1686,
376 ; April, 1687, 378 ; October,
1687, 384 ; April, 1688, 388.
Synod, references and reports to, 32, 34,
4i, 45, 53, 57, 59, 67, 69, 72, 73,
75, 80, 82, 90, 93, 96, 116, 148,
161.
Synod clerk, resigns, 52 ; Alexander
1'Orbes appointed, 52 ', Robert
Reynold appointed, 132.
Tailor, Patrick, 357.
Tais (Tawse), Alexander, 228.
William, 228.
Tarland and Migvie, 116 ; lands in Migvie
to Glenbucket, 205 ; 255, 379.
INDEX.
437
Tarvcs, morning and evening prayers, I,
202, 311.
Taylour, Alexander, 244.
- Grizall — sec Watt, Thomas.
Teachers — see Sehools.
Teinds, titulars of, 31 and Notes p. 409 ;
54-
Terpersie, 17, 102, 224, 225, 297.
Test, 330 ; Centesima and, 334 ; 342 ; by
schoolmrs., 346.
- Act of, 1681, xxvii.
Testaments, of ministers, to be confirmed
gratis, 4.
Testimony (Recommendation), to Bishop
for licence, 15, 17, 78, 115, 163,
188, 208, 222, 292, 320, 352, 387.
for ordination, 18, 91, 99, 123, 147,
162, 181, 273, 287, 330, 331, 338.
Texts, ministers', to be entered in Session
Book, 59, 93.
Thanksgivings, 5th Nov., 2 and Notes p.
399 ; do., 27 ; do., 52 ; 29th
May, 83 ; victory over Dutch, 83
and Notes p. 411 ; 291)1 May,
143; do., 170; do., 171; do.,
1 88 ; do., 217 ; do., 263 ; good
harvest, 265 ; May 29th, 246 ;
do., 279 ; for good harvest, 299 ;
king's nativity &c. , 314 ; do.,
327 ; May 29th, 331, 344 ; escape
of king &.c., 347 and Notes p.
415 ; working on days of, 350 ;
victory over enemies, 365 and
Notes p. 415 ; Queen and child,
387 ; prince's birth, 393, 394.
King's birth, 371 ; do., 377; do.,
380.
Theft, censure for, 96.
Thoirs, Rev. Thomas, 63.
Thomson, Anna (disc.), 332.
Bessie, cursing, 345.
Thomson, Elspet — see Reid, Marjorie.
James (Overcharroch), 194, 321.
Margaret (disc.), 323.
1'atrick, and Isobel Davidson
(disc.), 189.
William, xiv ; presented to Auchin-
doir, 169, 170, 171 ; settled at,
179; 182, 188, 191, 192, 195,
196, 198, 223, 230, 244, 248, 259,
260, 265, 266, 269, 272, 273, 276,
286, 289, 291, 296, 317, 321, 322,
336 ; modr. of Alford, 343, 347,
,348.
William (Nether Aforsque), 348.
Tilliquhowie, 72.
Timbermen, 18, 20, 175 ; market, 355.
Tipperty, bridge, 342.
Tirrisoull, 273.
Titulars of teinds— see Teinds.
Tonley, 135.
Touch, Gilbert (disc.), 25, 44.
Tough, xv. ; appointment to, 7 ; 8, 9, 10,
II ; lands from Monymusk to, 15 ;
16 ; desk in Church, 90 ; do.
100 ; designation of foggage, &c.,
HO ; 123 ; division of Kirk, 135-
137 ; 195, 242, 258, 331 ; visita
tion of, 344 ; 345, 346, 376, 377,
388, 392, 394.
Towy, xv., 8, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 20, 22,
25, 50 ; division of Church, 69-
71 ; 77, 78, 80, 84, 85, in, 116,
1 2O, 134, 138 ; charming, 143 ;
do., 144; 146, 155, 156, 158;
bridge at, 161 ; 166, 182, 195,
208, 218, 224, 244; visitation of,
246 ; 250, 294, 352, 392, 393.
Trials for licence, 9, 16, 18, 23, 35 ;
course of study, 58 ; 66, 68, 75,
77, 89, 90, 91, 103, 106, 109, in,
112, 138, 157, 158, 162, 163 ; re
gulations as to, 176-7 ; 178, 181,
185, 187, 192, 193 ; regulations
as to, 201 ; 208, 212, 216, 217,
222 ; regulation, 239 ; 263, 301,
309, 327, 344, 345, 353, 377, 388.
For ordination, 7, 18, 89, 96, 97,
99, 116, i2i, 123, 145, 161, 162,
170, 172, 179, 180, 181, 2^8, 280,
285, 306, 321, 330, 332, 387.
Tulloch, 224, 225, 280, 286, 290, 291, 341.
Tullynessle, xv., 9 ; papists in, 17 ; 61 ;
school, 97 ; schoolmr. rebuked,
98; papists in, 102 ; 157, 158,
195, 198, 214, 224 ; division of
Church, 297 1315; visitation of,
316 ; 329, 364, 371 ; visitation of,
375 ; 382, 392.
Tumult in Turriff Church, 73.
Turks, prisoners with, 239 and Notes p.
414, 249, 255, 257, 258, 267, 294,
320, 336.
Turriff, morning and evening prayers at, I,
80, 341.
Turriff (Presbytery), 28, 51, 56, 57, 58, 59,
68, 81 ; bk., 104 ; do., 117 ; 141,
143; bk., 153; do., 167; 207.
208, 211, 276, 280, 282, 283, 284,
324, 354 ; (Turray), 379-
Tyrie, David, 273.
Udny, division of Church, 167, 282, 283,
.303-
Uniformity and canonical obedience, 27.
University of Aberdeen, contribution to —
see King's College.
433
INDEX.
Unmarried women carried away, &c., regu
lations as to, 130-132.
I'ppermilne, 280, 286, 289.
Urquhart, Thomas, 146.
• (Parish), 343-
Utensils Church, Alford, 357 ; Auchin-
doir, 248; Tribrach, 382 ; Clatt,
316 ; Cushnie, 229 ; Forbes,
343 ; (llenbuckct, 243, 383 ;
Kcarn, 374 ; Keig, 364 ; Kcn-
nethmont, 356 ; Kiklrunimy,
3LS, 393 : Lcochel, 365 ; Slrath-
clon, 245, 375 ; Tough, none ;
Tovvie, 246 ; Tally nessle, 317.
Vacancies in Churches sfnce 1658, 30 ; in
Deer 1'resbytcry, 32 ; stipends of,
58.
Victory over rebel subjects, 565 and Note
P- 4I.S-
Valuation of Manses (" Appretiation ")
Keig, 98 ; Auchindoir, 321-323 ;
Leochel, 347-349 ; regulations as
to, 342.
Vicar, Alexander, 363.
Visitation of families by minr., 30.
- of Parishes, Alford, 357 ; Auchin-
doir, 247 ; Cabrach, 273 ; 382 ;
Clatt, 316 ; Cushnie, 228 ; 369 ;
Forbes, 343 ; Glenbucket, 243 ;
383 ; Kearn, 374 ; Keig, 363 ;
Kennethmont, 356 ; Kildrummy,
315 ; Leochel, 364 ; Strathdon,
244 ; 375: Tough, 314 ; Towie,
246 ; Tullynessle, 316 ; recom
mended, 389 ; Kildrummy, 393.
Visitors of Colleges, 60.
for Presbytery Looks, 27, 52, 71, 78,
85, 92, 103, 117, 124, 148, 152,
160, 166, 173, 200, 282 ; direc
tions to, 303 ; 333.
for taverns &c. on Sunday, 30, 55.
Walker, Alexander (bursar), 354, 355, 366,
370, 383, 384.
Andrew (charming), 143 ; sentence,
144, 146.
John (minister, Tullynessle), xv, S ;
settling, 10, II ; papists, 17; 39,
41, 61^ 62, 64, 76, 77, 84, 87, 89,
91, 96, 107, 108, 115, 151, 152,
J57> !59> J62 ; arrears to bursars,
165, i 86, 195, 224, 266, 278,
-07, 3oo, 303, 307, 3oS, 754,
386, 387.
- James (Student), 157, 158, 159,
162, 163 ; recommended for
licence, 163.
Rev. John, 277.
Walker, Robert (disc.), 265.
Wallace, Isobel, 113.
Wardhouse, laird of, 84.
Watson, Andrew, 298.
• (jeorge (minister, Leochel), xv, 21,
23, 67, 82, 83, 96, 100, 105. 107,
109, in, 112, 139, 142, 143. 145,
147, 152, 157, 158, 1 66, 170, 171,
182, 191, 195, 198, 230, 242, 273,
_ 287, 296, 303, 348.
• Ceorgc (Strathdon), 244, 375.
- John and William (disc.), 218.
Patrick, help to, 303.
Patrick, 393.
Watt, Peter, 315.
Thomas and Crizall Taylour (incest
and adultery), 161.
Wells, Holy, 189 and Notes p. 413 ; 205.
Westminster Directory, xxxii., and Notes
p. 400.
White (YV'hitt), Rev. James, 282.
Whitehouse, Farquharson, James of
(disc.), 63.
Whitson, William, 382.
Whythaugh, 297.
Whytlumbs, 317.
Wilkie, Mr., vacant stipend, 30.
Wilson, Ceorge (Fin/each), desk in Tough
Church, 90, 100, 135, 224.
- John and Jean Ilurnett, reviling
minr., >\c., 88, 97, 100.
Witchcraft — see Charming.
Witnesses in cases, Alexander Spcnce's
46 ; William Clerihew's, 49 ; 61
John Wilsone's, 88 ; Forbes's, iVc.
Strathdon, 101 ; Innes's, 112
Ker's, &c., 121 ; Innes, 135
against minr. of Cabrach, 181
minr. against others, 183 ; 184
192; against minr., 194; 199 r
irregular marriage, 307 ; 308.
Wodset, Wodsetters, 69, 135, 322, 348,
417.
Women not declaring father of children, 56.
Worship under Episcopacy, xxx. — xxxiv.
Worship, puplic, regulations as to, 336.
Wright, James, 356.
INDEX.
439
Young, John, 298.
men for ministry, to he tried by
Presbytery, but licensed by
bishop, 3. and Notes p. 402 ; not
to preach unless authorised by
bishop, 5 ; lately licensed to ap
ply to bishop, 6 ; to subscribe
Canonical Obedience, 33 ; how
licensed if bishop absent, 33 ;
those licensed in bishop's absence
to obtain bishop's ratification, 58,
regulations n> to trials. 176; do.,
239; as to "exercising" before
Presbyteries, 325 ; regulations as
to trials of, 342 ; as to bursaries,
360.
Voung, William, Schoolmr., Test, 346;
trials, 377 ; 388, 392, 393, 394.
Youngson, Alexander (minr. Tullynessle),
xv.
Yuletime, abuses at, 31 ; 55.
T.iyi,.r .4 Henderson, IVii.te
TENTH REPORT BY COUNCIL
1896
(Club
Founded nth November, 1886.
HI*:]
JJatronrsa :
M. \JESTV TMK QUKI'LN.
OFFICE-BEARERS FOR 1896-97.
president :
THE EARL OF ABERDEEN, LL.D.
THE
THE
THE
THE
THE
THE
THE
THE
THE
DUKE OF RICHMOND AND GORDON,
D.C.L., LE.D.
DUKE OF FIFE, K.T.
MARQUIS or HUNTLY, LL.D.
MARQUIS OF BUTE, K.T., LL.D.
EARL or ERROLL, LL.D.
EARL or STRATHMORE.
EARL OF SOUTHESK, K.T., LL.D.
EARL OF KINTOKE, LL.D.
EARL OF ROSEHERY, K.G., LL.D.
Ilire-yresiiients :
K.G., THE LORD FORBES.
THE LORD SALTOUN.
THE LORD PROVOST OF ABERDEEN.
THE PRINCIPAL OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ABERDEEN.
SIR JOHN F. CLARK, Bart., of Tillypronie.
vSiu GEORGE REID, P. R.S.A., LL.D.
JAMES A. CAMPBELL of Stracathro, M.P., LL.D.
WILLIAM FERGUSON of Kinmundy, LL.D.
EMERITUS PROCESSOR DAVID MASSON, LL.D.
(Oi-Jiimtrvt Members of Council
Colonel James Allardyce of Culquoich, LL.D.
John Bulloch, Aberdeen.
George Cadenhead, Procurator-Fiscal, Aberdeen.
The Very Rev. /Eneas Chisholm, LL.D., President
of Blairs College.
The Rev. James Cooper, D.D., Aberdeen.
William Cramond, LL.D., Cullen.
Peter M. Cran, City Chamberlain, Aberdeen.
The Rev. J. Myers Danson, D.D.. Aberdeen.
Charles B. Davidson, LL.D., President of the
Society of Advocates in Aberdeen.
The Hon. and Right Rev. Bishop Douglas, D.D.,
Aberdeen.
William Dunn of Murtle.
John Philip Edmond, Haigh.
James Ferguson, Edinburgh.
Alexander M. Gordon of Xewton.
Henry Wolrige-Gordon of Esslemont.
The Rev. Walter Gregor, LL.D., Bonnyrigg.
John A. Henderson, Aberdeen.
Sir William Henderson, LL.D., Aberdeen.
Brigade-Surgeon Lieut. -Col. W. Johnston of
Newton Dee, M.D.
The Rev. William Forbes-Leith, S.J., Selkirk.
The Rev. Robert Lippe, LL.D., Aberdeen.
David Littlejohn, Sheriff-Clerk. Aberdeen.
Peter Duguid-M'Combie of Easter Skene.
James Matthews of Springhill, LL.D.
The Rev. John G. Michie, Dinnet.
James Moir, LL.D., Co-Rector of the Grammar
School, Aberdeen.
Alexander M. Munro, Aberdeen.
Charles Rampini, LL.D., Sheriff-Substitute, Elgin.
Alexander Ramsay, LL.D., Banff.
Alexander W. Robertson, Librarian. Public Library,
Aberdeen.
John Forbes Robertson, London.
The Rev. James Smith, B.D., Aberdeen.
Sir David Stewart of Banchory, LL.D.
The Rev. William Temple, D.D., Forgue.
Alexander Walker, LL.D., Aberdeen.
George Walker, Aberdeen.
Robert Walker, University of Aberdeen.
John Forbes White, LL.D., Dundee.
Professor John Dove Wilson, LL.D., Aberdeen.
Robert M. Wilson, M.D., Old Deer.
The Rev. John Woodward, LL.D., Montrose.
ferret-are :
PETER JOHN ANDERSON, University Library, Aberdeen.
Treasurer :
FARQUHARSON TAYLOR GARDEN, 18 Golden Square, Aberdeen.
^Vuftitors :
GEORGE COOPER, C.A., Aberdeen ; and WILLIAM MILNE, C.A., Aberdeen.
[Subscription for 1897, £I I5-i d'1*-' lst January.}
TENTH REPORT BY THE COUNCIL.
Approved at the Tenth Annual General Meeting of the New Spalding Club,
held on l^riday, i8/A December, 1896, at 3 p.m.
SINCE the last General Meeting of the Club, held on Friday,
2Oth December, 1895, two volumes have been issued to mem
bers :—
I. — MUSA LATINA ABERDONENSIS. Vol. II. Arthur
Johnston's Epigrammata and the remaining secular
poems. Edited by Principal Sir William D.
Geddes, LL.I). (Pp. Ivi. + 307, with nine plates.
Eighth Annual Report.)
O if
This volume formed part of the issue assigned to the year
1895-
II. — HISTORICAL PAPERS RELATING TO THE JACOBITE PERIOD,
1699-1750. Edited by Colonel James Allardyce,
LL.D. Vol. II. (Pp. lii. + 314, with twelve
plates. Ninth Annual Report.)
This volume formed part of the issue assigned to the year
1896. The other volume promised in last Report, viz. ;—
III. — FASTI ACADEMIAE MARISCALLANAE, SELECTIONS FROM
THE RECORDS OF THE MARISCIIAL COLLEGE AND
UNIVERSITY. Edited by the Secretary. Vol. II.
Officers, Graduates, and Alumni ; has not yet been
issued. The amount of labour involved in an
notating' the various Marischal College lists has
proved unexpectedly great ; but the printing of the
volume is well advanced, and the Council anticipate
that it will be distributed to members at an early
date. The Editorial Committee have authorised
the restriction of this volume to the " Fasti " proper.
It will contain portraits of the following twelve emi
nent alumni of the College : Robert Gordon of
Straloch, Bishop Gilbert Burnet, Professor James
Gregory, Dr. John Arbuthnot, Field- Marshal James
Keith, Duncan Forbes of Culloclen, Professor James
Beattie, Principal George Campbell, Professor
Thomas Reid, Sir James M'Grigor, Dr. James
Melvin, and Professor John Cruickshank.
For the year 1897 the Council have approved the issue
of:-
IV. — THE FOLKLORE OF NORTH-EASTERN SCOTLAND. Edited
by the Rev. Walter Gregor, LL.D. Vol. I. The
Hours of the Day, the Days of the Year, and the
Months.
V. — THE RECORDS OF THE MEETING OF THE EXERCISE OF
ALFORD, 1662-88. Edited by the Rev. Thomas
Bell, Minister of Keig, Clerk to the Presbytery of
Alford, and to the Synod of Aberdeen.
The Council, at their last meeting, remitted to the Editorial
Committee to confer with Mr. A. W. Robertson, with the view
of encouraging him to widen the scope of his Bibliography of
the shires of Aberdeen, Banff, and Kincardine, as indicated in the
Ninth Report by the Council. Mr. Robertson explained to the
Committee that such limitations as lie had proposed arose, not
I rom any desire on his part to restrict the scope of the work,
but from his fear lest the time at his disposal should prove
insufficient to enable him, if unaided, to complete a more ex
haustive local Bibliography within any definite period. Me.
suggested that Mr. Kellas Johnstone. a member of the Club,
whose recent contributions to Scottish Notes and Queries have
shown a special knowledge of the subject, should be asked to
co-operate in the undertaking-. In this proposal Mr. Johnstone
has cordially acquiesced, and it has been remitted to him and
Mr. Robertson jointly to prepare and submit to the- Editorial
Committee a revised scheme for a book, the title of which will
now stand on the programme of the Club as :-
VI. — BIBLIOGRAPHY OF THE SlilRKS OF AlJERDEEN, BANFF
AND KixcARuixF. Edited by A. W. Robertson,
M.A., and J. F. Kellas Johnstone.
Mr. Farquharson of Invercauld recently expressed his
willingness to submit the papers in his charter chest to examina
tion on behalf of the Club, and, at the request of the Editorial
Committee, the Rev. Mr. Michie, Dinnet, prepared a report
thereanent. Mr. Michie finds that only a small portion of the.
Farquharson papers appears to have been seen by the late
Dr. John Stuart, when reporting to the Historical Manu
scripts Commission (Report Xo. iv., p. 533), and that among
the papers are many calculated to form a volume of great local
and genera] interest. Of especial value are a large package of
letters from Lord George Murray, commander of the Prince's
army in the: Forty-live, covering the period from 1/42 to 1/47 ;
and a still larger package of papers by Francis Farquharson of
Monaltrie, the " Baron Ban," who led the Farquharsons in that
rising. The Editorial Committee have approved the addition
of such a volume, under the editorship of Mr. Michie, to the
programme of the Club.
VII. — HISTORICAL RECORDS OF IXYKRCAULD. Edited by
the Rev. J. G. Michie, Minister of Dinnet.
Other works, named in former Reports, are the following,
the first nine being in progress under their respective editors :—
VIII. — DIARY OF THE SCOTS COLLEGE AT DOUAI, AND
NECROLOGIES OF THE SCOTS COLLEGES AT RATIS-
130N AND PARIS. Edited by the Rev. W. Forbes-
Leith, S.J., Selkirk.
IX. — REGISTER OF THE SCOTS COLLEGE AT ROME. Edited
by the Right Rev. Monsignor Campbell, D.I).,
Rector of the College.
X. — RECORDS FROM THE ARCHIVES OF MIDDELIUJRG,
FLUSHING, CAMPVERE, ETC. Edited by the Rev. A.
W. Frater, M.A., Minister of the Scotch Church,
Middelburg.
XL — HISTORY OF THE FAMILY OF BURNETT. Edited by
the late Lyon, George Burnett, LL.D.
XII. — PLACE NAMES OF ABERDEENSHIRE. Edited by James
Macdonald, Huntly.
XIII. — RECORDS OF THE SYNOD OF MORAY, ETC. : with Fasti
of Schoolmasters. Edited by the Rev. Stephen
Ree, B.D., Minister of Boharm.
XIV. — PAPERS OF DAVID SKENE, M.D. Edited by
J. W. H. Trail, M.D., F.R.S., Professor of Botany
in the University of Aberdeen.
XV. — RECORDS OF OLD ABERDEEN. Edited by Alex
ander M. Munro. This will incorporate the more
reliable portions of Orem's work, with extracts from
the records of the Town Council (from 1602) ; Trades
7
(from 1608); Kirk Session (from 1621); Merchant
Society (from 1686), etc.
XVI. COLLKCTIONS ILLUSTRATIVE OF TIIK HlSTORV OF
KlNCARDINESHIRE OR TIIK MKARNS. Edited by the
Rev. Douglas Gordon Barron, B.I)., Minister of
Dunottar.
XVI I. --COLLECTIONS ILLUSTRATIVE OF THE HlSTORV OF
FORFARSHIRE OR ANGUS.
XVIII. — Tni': MISCELLANY OF THE CLUB. Vol. II. For
this several interesting papers have been promised.
XIX. --HLSTORV OF THE FAMILY OF FORBES.
XX. — RECORDS OF THE MATURIN, DOMINICAN, CARMELITE,
AND FRANCISCAN FRIARS OF AIJERDEEN, 1211-1560.
XXI. ICONOGRAI'IIIA SCOTICA SEI'TENTRIONALIS ; being a
catalogue raisoimt of extant portraits, original or
engraved, of eminent persons connected with the
North of Scotland ; with reproductions of selected
portraits. It is intended to issue a circular letter
to members of the Club and others likely to be
interested in this work, inviting information and
co-operation.
The Treasurer has again the satisfaction of reporting no
members as in arrears. The total receipts since the founding of
the Club amount to ,£5536 i ;s. gd. (including ^73 IDS. in
compositions from Life Members) ; the total expenditure amounts
to /,~4/94 (9s.
Since the last Report submitted by the Council nine,
members of the Club have died : — Mr. Alexander Allardyce,
Edinburgh ; Dr. Arthur Anderson, C.B., Pitlochrie ; Sir Thomas
1). Brodie, Bart., of Idvies ; Rev. T. Nairne Imrie, Dunfermline ;
Mr. George Arbuthnot Leslie,, of \Varthill, a member of the
Council; Mr. Charles A. Mollyson, Aberdeen; Mr. John
Shiell. Dundee: Mr. James Spittal, Ellon ; Mr. Thomas \Vil-
sone, Aberdeen : all members in their several spheres much
and justly regretted. Where no representative of a deceased
member has desired to continue his membership, the vacancy
created has been filled from the list ot applicants for admission.
The Club has now been in existence for a decade;, the
inaugural meeting having been held on iith November,
1886. The Council have satisfaction in pointing out that the,
primary objects of the Club --" To promote the study of the
History, Topography and Archaeology of the North-eastern
Counties of Scotland, and to print works illustrative thereof "
have hitherto been promoted in a manner \vhich reflects credit
on the Acting Committees, and more especially on the various
editors who have so readily placed their services at the disposal
of the Club. During the ten years .1806-96, sixteen volumes have
been issued to members, containing a total of 6493 quarto pages of
matter with 133 full page plates. These volumes comprise con
tributions to Political History, in Colonel Allardyce's Historical
Papers Relating to the /acobitc Period '; to Municipal History,
in Dr. Cramond's Annals of Banff, and Mr. Munro's
Register of Burgesses of Aberdeen ; to Ecclesiastical History, in
Dr. Cooper's Chartulary of the Church of St. Nicholas, Dr.
Lipne's Selections from Wodrows Collections, and Dr. Moir's
Translation of Boece's Lives of the Bishops ; to Academic His
tory, in the Secretary's Fasti of King's College and of Marischal
College ; to Family History and Heraldry, in Lord Huntly's
Records of Aboyne, Dr. Skene's Memorials of the Family of
Skenc, and Sir William Geddes and Mr. Duguid-McCombie's
Heraldic Ceiling of the Church of St. Machar ; and to Litera
ture, in Sir William Geddes' Mnsa Latina Aberdonensis.
The Council would acknowledge their continued obligation
to the Society of Advocates for permitting the Annual General
Meeting of the Club to be held in the Society's Hall ; and to
the Public Library Committee, and the Curator of the University-
Library, for granting the use of rooms for Committee Meetings.
\VM. D. GEDDES, C.
ABSTRACT
Framed from the Annual Accounts of the Club for the period from
I2lh December, 1895, to nth December, 1896.
THE CHARGE.
Assets at close of last account, . • £565 7 TI
Subscriptions for year 1896,- • 5°^ 4 °
Subscriptions for year 1897,
Payments by new members for back volumes, 21 o o
Payments by members dying during 1896
Rule 9), . 660
Composition for life membership. 10 10 o
Bank interest. . 9 5 2
Amount of the Charge, . £"^L *. l
TUP: DISCHARGE.
T8(K). I. MISCELLANEOUS ACCOUNTS PAID.
Dee. 23. Grosvenor, Chater & Co. (per
Edmond & Spark), . £118 16 6
G. W. Wilson & Co., Ltd., . . 35 J7 IO
1896.
Feb. 21. A. P. Reid, . 080
Mar. 3. British Record Soc., . i I
Apr. 10. Miss M. Craig, . 5 16 6
}un. 12. G. W. Wilson & Co., Ltd., - 3 * 6
„ ., A. King & Co., . . 6153
„ „ Edmond & Spark. 44 2 TI
„ 29. D. Wyllie & Son, o 13 6
Oct. 31. Milne cv Hutchison. . 71 17 6
Nov. 2. J. P. K. Johnstom-. T I o
.. 19. J. Macmahon, . 1102^
„ Milne & Hutchison, . 3 IT 9
,' „ Pklmond cV Spark. . 39 19 5
G. W. Wilson & Co.. Ltd., . 8 14 o
20. D. P. Menxies, . 220
28. A. King & Co., • • 096
-^345 18
Carry forward, £345 l$
x A'o/f.— At the close of the account the membership of the Club stood as follows:
Life members, ...-•••••••
Members that paid for 1896 during period of last account, .
DO do. do. present account, . . 4°4
Total, .......... 50"
10
Brought forward, £345
II. SECRETARY AND HONORARY TREASURER.
Secretary's Salary, 1895-96, . . . £26 5 o
Secretary's Postages, I3th Dec., i8g5,to date, 663
Hon. Treasurer's sundry outlays, including
Insurance on paper, etc., . . . 8 12 6i
III. ASSETS AS AT IITII DECEMBER, 1896.
Deposit Receipt with Town and County
Bank, Ltd., dated nth December, 1896,
being Composition received from seven
Life Members (see footnote on preced
ing page), . . £73 10 o
Nine do., with do., of same date, . . 667 7 9
Balance in hands of Hon. Treasurer, . i i o
741 18 9
Amount of the Discharge, equal to the Charge, £1129 i i
Note i. — The Miscellaneous Disbursements above are allocated as follows : —
I. " MUSA LATINA ABERDONENSIS." VOL. II.
Illustrations: W'ilson, £2 10 10
Binding: Edmond & Spark, Cases, per estimate, . . . . 22 i 8
» ,, ,, Add for Extra Sheets, etc., . . 266
Packing, 4 5 n
Carriage, n 6 4
- £42 ii
II. " HISTORICAL PAPERS." VOL. II.
Paper, 16 reams (for printing 224 pp.) £32 8 4
Printing: Milne & Hutchison, 42^ sheets, per estimate, . . 60 n C
» ,, Extra for Small Type, etc., . . . 774
,, ,, Corrections, 388
Illustrations: Wilson, 45 2 6
Binding: Edmond & Spark, Cases, per estimate, . . . 22 i 8
>t ,, Add for Extra Sheets, etc., . . 2 13 10
Packing, 4 5 ii
Carriage, 10 10 o
1 88 9
Carry forward, £-3^
' Together with £196 as. nd. from last account : in all £238 145. 2d.
1 Together with £21 iGs. id. from last account : in all £210 55. gd.
II
Brought fonvard, £231 i o
III. "FASTI ACADEMIAE MARISCALLANAE." VOL. II.*
Paper, 2^ reams ... 48 12 6
IV. LIBRARY.
Books of Reference, ......... £2 15 6
Subscription to British Record Society (Scottish Section), . . 112
3 16 8
V. SUNDRIES.
Printing Reports, Circulars, etc., ....... £11 6 6
Miscellaneous Transcribing, etc., 8 15 8|
Stationery, ........... 4 10 6
Paper in Stock (17^ reams), 37 15 8
62 8 i
Amount of Miscellaneous Disbursements, as above, ..... £345 18
:i It will be observed that the accounts for the printing, illustrations, binding, etc., of this volume have not
yet been paid. This explains the large apparent increase in the assets of the Club.
12
RULES.
2. The Club shall consist of five hundred members, subscribers of one guinea
annually: each subscription to be paid on or before the first day of
January in each year.
j. The general management of the affairs of the Club shall be vested in a
Council, consisting of a President, at le-'.st trn \'iee-rresidents, and not
fewer than forty ordinary members, including a Secretary and a Treasurer :
all to be chosen yearly at a General Meeting of the Club, to be h -id at
Aberdeen, in the Month of October, or at such other time \vithin each year
as may be found convenient. At all Meetings of the Council seven members
shall form a quorum.
7. Vacancies in the membership shall be filled up according to priority of application.
8. Members ma}-, at any time, compound for all future annual subscriptions. In
payment of ten guineas over and above the subscription for the current year ;
and it shall be in the po\ver of the Council to exempt from subscriptions,
annual or other, any member who may present to the Club a work, the
printing of which, as a Club publication, has been sanctioned bv the Council.
c). livery member shall receive one copy of every volume assigned bv the Club to
the years for which he has paid subscriptions ; and the editor of each
work shall receive five additional copies of his work. The heir, executor
or representative of a member shall have no claim to volumes issued by
the Club after the member's death, unless he be admitted a member of the
Club in place of the deceased.
13
to. The number of copies printed in each case shall not exceed five hundred
and twenty-five, and no copy of any work printed by the Club shall be
offered by it for sale.
:i. The Club shall undertake the issue of its books without the intervention of
publishers or booksellers.
i.:. A General Meeting of the Club may be called at any time on presentation to the
Secretary of a requisition signed by twenty members ; and the above rules
maj- be altered at any General Meeting, provided that the members have
received from the Secretary at least fourteen days' notice of the proposed
change.
14
VVORKvS ISSUED BY THE NEW SPALDING CLUB.
{"MEMORIALS OF THE FAMILY OF SKENE OF SKENE, FROM THE FAMILY PAPERS,
WITH OTHER ILLUSTRATIVE DOCUMENTS. Edited by William Forbes
Skene, D.C.L., LL.D., Her Majesty's Historiographer for Scotland. (Pp.
1887] 269 + xv., with six full-page plates. First Annual Report.)
CARTULARIUM ECCLESIAE SANCTI NICHOLAI ABERDONENSIS. Recognovit Jaco
bus Cooper, A.M., in Ecclesia supradicta Presbyter. Toinus prior. (Pp.
278 + xix., with three plates. List of members, nth November, 1887.)
LACUNAR BASILICAE SANCTI MACARII ABERDONKNSIS : The Heraldic Ceiling of
the Cathedral Church of St. Machar, Old Aberdeen. Described in His
torical and Armorial Detail by William Duguid Geddes, LL.D., and Peter
Duguid. (Pp. 172 + xix., with thirty plates, twenty-four in heraldic colours.
Second Annual Report.)
1889 FASTI ACADEMIAE MARISCALLANAE : Selections from the Records of the Maris-
chal College and University, MDXCIII.-MDCCCLX. Edited by Peter John
Anderson, M.A., LL.B. Vol. I. Endowments. (Pp. 577 + xxxi., with
five plates.)
SELECTIONS FROM WODROW'S BIOGRAPHICAL COLLECTIONS : Divines of the
North-east of Scotland. Edited by the Reverend Robert Lippe. (Pp.
360 + Ixxxv. , with two plates. Third Annual Report.)
THE MISCELLANY OF THE NEW SPALDING CLUB. Vol. I. (Pp. 391 + Ixii.
Fourth Annual Report. List of members, i2th December, 1890.)
CARTULARIUM ECCLESIAE SANCTI NICHOLAI ABERDONENSIS. Recognovit Jaco
bus Cooper, S.T.D. Tomus alter. (Pp. 496 + Ixvi., with twelve plates,
. eight in colour.)
THE ANNALS OF BANFF. Compiled by William Cramond, M.A., Schoolmaster
of Cullen. Vol. I. (Pp. 385 + xv., with nine plates.)
'MusA LATINA ABERDONENSIS: Arthur Johnston. Vol. I. The Parerga of
1637. Edited by Sir William Duguid Geddes, LL.D. (Pp. 318 + xxiv.,
„ , with six plates. Fifth Annual Report.)
THE ANNALS OF BANFF. Compiled by William Cramond, M.A., LL.D. Vol.
II. (Pp. 498 + xi., with eleven plates. Sixth Annual Report.)
15
(OFFICERS AND GRADUATES OF UNIVERSITY AND KlNG's COLLEGE, ABERDEEN,
MVD.-MDCCCLX. Edited by Peter John Anderson, M.A., LL.B. (Pp.
399 + xx., with four plates.)
93 J HECTORIS BOETII MURTHLACENSIUM ET ABERDONENSIUM EPISCOPORUM VITAE.
Edited and Translated by James Moir, M.A., LL.D., Co-Rector of Aber
deen Grammar School. (Pp. 210 + xx., with two plates. Seventh Annual
Report. List of members, 3oth June, 1894.)
1894 ^Hli RECORDS OF ABOYNE, MCCXXX.-MDCLXXXI. Edited by Charles, nth
Marquis of Huntly, Earl of Aboyne, etc., P.C., LL.D. (Pp. 590 + xliv.,
with eleven plates.)
("HISTORICAL PAPERS RELATING TO THE JACOBITE PERIOD, 1699-1750. Edited
by Colonel James Allardyce, LL.D. Vol. I. (Pp. 338 + 1., with
eleven plates.)
1895-,
MUSA LATINA ABERDOXENSIS : Arthur Johnston. Vol. II. The Epigrammata
and remaining secular Poems. Edited by Sir William Duguid Geddes,
LL.D. (Pp. 308 + Ivi., with nine plates. Eighth Annual Report.)
.HISTORICAL PAPERS RELATING TO THE JACOBITE PERIOD, 1699-1750. Edited
by Colonel James Allardyce, LL.D. Vol. II. (Pp. 314 + Hi., with twelve
plates. Ninth Annual Report.)
1896 -
FASTI ACADEMIAE MARISCALLANAE : Selections from the Records of Marischal
College and University, MDXCIII.-MDCCCLX. Edited by Peter John
Anderson, M.A., LL.B. Vol. II. Officers, Graduates and Alumni.
(/;/ the press.)
•THE FOLKLORE OF NORTH-EASTERN SCOTLAND. Edited by the Reverend Walter
Gregor, LL.D. Vol. I. The Hours of the Day, the Days of the Year, and
1897^ the Months. (In the press.)
THE RECORDS OF THE MEETING OF THE EXERCISE OF ALFORD, 1662-88. Edited
by the Reverend Thomas Bell. (In the press.)
Church of Scotland.
Presbytery of Alfor.d
Records of the meeting
of the excercise of Alford
PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE
CARDS OR SLIPS FROM THIS POCKET
UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO LIBRARY