BR 785 .073 1851 v. 2
James I, 1566-1625.
Original letters relating tc
the ecclesiastical affairs
V. oi.
ORIGINAL LETTERS
RELATING TO THE
ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS
OF SCOTLAND,
CHIEFLY WRITTEN BY, OR ADDRESSED TO
HIS MAJESTY RING JAMES THE SIXTH
AFTER HIS ACCESSION TO THE ENGLISH THRONE.
VOL. II. M.DC.XIV.-M.DC.XXV.
EDINBURGH: M.DCCC.LI.
I'KISIEl) OV JOHN llfklits, 3 TIIIMI.E STREET, EDINBU]
TABLE OF CONTENTS
OF VOLUME SECOND.
No. M.DC.XIV.
215. The Archbishop of Glasgow to John Murray,
216. The Archbishop of St Andrews to John Murray,
217. John Murray of Lochmaben to the Earl of Dunfermline,
218. The Lords of Privy Council to King James,
219. The Bishop of Orkney to John Murray,
220. The Archbishop of Glasgow to John Murray,
221. The Archbishop of St Andrews to John Murray,
222. The Archbishop of Glasgow to King James,
223. The Archbishop of Glasgow to John Murray,
224. The Earl of Dunfermline to King James,
225. The Earl of Dunfermline to John Murray,
226. Sir John Skene to King James,
227. The Bishop of Orkney to Lord Binning,
228. The Bishop of Orkney to Lord Binning,
229. The Bishop of the Isles to Lord Binning,
230. The Archbishop of St Andrews to John Murray,
231. Mr Peter Hewat to John Murray,
232. The Bishop of Orkney to Lord Binning,
234. The Archbishop of Glasgow and Lord Binning to King
James, ....
233. The Bishop of Orkney to Sir Gideon Murray,
235. The Archbishop of Glasgow to King James,
236. Examinations relative to Father Ogilby the Jesuit,
237. The Bishop of Orkney to Lord Binning.
238. The Bishop of the Isles to John Murray,
239. The Bishop of Galloway to John Murray,
240. The Bishop of the Isles to John Murray,
241. The Bishop of the Isles to John Murray,
241.f Acts of Privy Council-
Act allowing the Apprehension of Mr James Monet,
Jesuit, .....
11 July,
12 „
24 „
27 „
28 „
29 „
3 August,
3
3
4
4
9
27
(no date), 370
23 September, 372
25 „ 376
27 „ 377
29 „ 378
Page
351
354
355
357
359
361
363
364
365
366
367
368
369
30
1 October,
5 „
5
6 „
11
15
17
23
383
380
385
387
392
393
395
396
397
10 November, 795
b
CONTENTS.
242.
2 1.1.
244.
1614. Page
Commission for trying of the Messe Preistis in
Glasgow, . . . . . 11 November, 796
Warrant! for persute of Air James MofFett, Jesuite, 22 „ 796
The Archbishop of Glasgow to John Murray, . 12 „ 399
The Earl of Caithness to King James, . . 16 „ 401
Lord Binning to John Murray, ... 17 December, 402
M.DC.XV.
245. Sir Andrew Murray of Balvaird to John Murray,
246. Mr William Murray to John Murray,
247. The Bishop of Caithness to John Murray,
248. Mr Thomas Ramsay to John Murray,
249. Mr James Bischop to King James,
250. His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council,
251 . Hi^ Majesty to the Archbishop of St Andrews,
252. Lord Binning to John Murray,
253. The Earl of Dunfermline to John Murray,
254. Lord Binning to John Murray,
255. Lord Binning to John Murray,
256. The Archbishop of Glasgow to John Murray,
2-">7. Sir Andrew Murray of Balvaird to John Murray,
258. The Archbishop of Glasgow to John Murray,
259. The Bishop of Argyle to King James,
260. The Earl of Dunfermline to John Murray,
261 . His Majesty to the Archbishop of St Andrews,
262. The Bishop of Galloway to King James,
262.J Tlis Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council,
263. His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council and to the
Lords of Session,
264. The Archbishop of St Andrews to King James,
265. Sir Gideon Murray and Sir Alexander Hay to King
266. His Majesty to the Marquess of Huntley,
2117. The Earl of Caithness to King James,
268. The Earl of Dunfermline to Lord l'entoun,
269. The Bishop of Caithness to Sir llobert Car,
270. His Majesty to the Archbishop of Glasgow and
Bishops, ....
271. Lord Spynie to King James,
L'Tl.f His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council,
272. The Earls of Morton and Kingdom to King James,
273. His Majesty to the Earl of Dunfermline,
274. The Earl of Eglintoun to King James,
1 January,
403
6
405
7
407
10
408
20
409
22
410
22
411
26
411
28
413
29
414
(no date)
415
30
417
31
418
6 February,
420
24
422
24
423
24
425
7 March,
425
13 „
797
to the
15 „
427
7 April,
•428
James, (no date)
429
11 „
431
27
432
30
433
3 May,
437
other
26 „
(S.i
26 „
439
27 „
797
28 „
441
10 June,
1 13
(no date)
114
CONTENTS.
275. Articles required for the Service of the Church of Scotland,
276. Examination of Mr James Moffat, Jesuit,
276.f Acts of Privy Council of Scotland —
Act anent James Stewart of Herusalame,
Proclamation anent the Preuting of Books beyond Sea,
James Stewart his Act,
277. : The Bishop of the Isles to John Murray,
277.f His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council,
278. The Bishop of Galloway to King James,
279. The Earl of Angus to King James,
280. The Archbishops and Bishops to King James,
281. The Archbishop of St Andrews and Bishop of Galloway
to John Murray, ....
282. The Bishop of Galloway to John Murray,
2S3. The Archbishop of Glasgow to John Murray,
284. His Majesty to Sir Alexander Hay,
284.f The Form of Homage and Oath of Alledgiance taken by
the Archbishops of St Andrews and Glasgow,
284. jf His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council,
285. The Archbishop of St Andrews to John Murray,
28G. The Bishop of Galloway to John Murray,
287. The Archbishop of Glasgow to John Murray,
288. The Archbishop of St Andrews to John Murray,
289. The Archbishop of St Andrews to John Murray,
290. The Bishop of Murray to King James,
291. Lady Eleanor Hay, Countess of Linlithgow, to King James,
292. The Earl of Crawford and Lord Spyhie to King James,
M.DC.XVI.
293. The Bishop of Galloway to King James,
294. His Majesty to the Treasurer-Depute,
295. The Bishop of Galloway to John Murray,
296. The Archbishop of St Andrews to King James,
297. The Bishop of Dunblane to John Murray,
297. f His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council,
297.ff Acts of Privy Council-
Warrant anent the Book intituled " God and the King,"
Keport by the Archbishop of Glasgow on the said
Work, .....
298.| His Majesty to the Chancellor, Rector, and Masters of the
University of St Andrews,
1615.
Page
(no date),
445
16 June,
446
23 March,
798
13 June,
799
20 July,
799
1 August,
449
13
800
14 September, 451
10 October,
452
9 November.
, 453
10
454
10
455
14
457
24
457
26
801
27
800
9 December,
458
14
459
15
460
21
460
22
461
28
463
(no date),
464
(no date),
465
January,
466
2 February,
467
14
468
(no date),
469
6 April,
470
14 „
803
22 May,
804
6 June,
804
10 „
805
CONTENTS.
No.
298.ft Articles set down by hi? Majesty concerning the Uni-
versity of 81 Andrews,
L':»s. Hi* Majesty to tlie Archbishop of St Andrews,
298.JJ His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council, 12 July, and
Act of < !ouncil, ....
299. Memorandum for ane Letter to be written by my Lord of
Canterburie, .....
100. His Majesty to the Archbishop of St Andrews,
;n(. His Majesty to Sir A. Murray of Balvaird,
301. The Archbishop of Canterbury to the Archbishop of St
Andrews,
302. Mr John Forbes to King James,
303. Mr John Forbes to King James,
305. Instructions to the Earl of Montrose, Commissioner to the
General Assembly,
306. The Bishop of Caithness to John Murray,
307. Lord Binning to King James,
308. The Earl of Moutrosc to King James,
II 19. The Oath of Allegiance to his Majesty,
310. The Rector of the University of St Andrews, and Profes-
sors, to John Murray, ....
311. Mr John Wemyss of Craigtoun to King James,
312. Mr John Wemyss of Craigtoun to John Murray,
">ll'. | His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council,
312.ft His Majesty to the Lord Chancellor,
312.ftt Act of the Privy Council for Establishing Schools in every
Parish, .....
31 8. The Lords of Privy Council to King James,
M.DC.xvu.
314. His Majesty to the Bishops and Ministers of Edinburgh,
315. The Bishop of Galloway to Mr Patrick Symson,
316. The Archbishop of St Andrews to King .lames,
3164 "is Majesty King James to the Lords of Privy Council,
■"•17. Protestation of Ministers for the Liberties of the Kirk.
to the Parliament, ....
31 7. t Acts of the Privy Council of Scotland —
The Earl of Buckingham admitted on Council,
The Earls of Arundel! and Pembroke, &c, admitted on
Council, .....
Oath of the Commissioners for Plantation of Kirks,
10 June,
18 July,
Page
807
471
809
(no date),
472
„
474
IS July.
481
23 „
476
24 „
478
(no date),
479
(no date),
481
17 August,
484
22
486
27
487
(no date).
4SS
28
489
(no date),
491
18 September
,494
2 November,
811
9 December,
811
10
812
20
495
L3 March,
496
26 „
499
3 April,
501
16 „
813
17 June,
501
18 May,
814
29 June,
815
30 „
815
CONTENTS.
The Bishop of Ely admitted on Council,
His Majesty's Letter as the warrand,
318. Mr Archibald Synison to the Court of High Commission,
319. Lord Binning to King James,
320. The Bishop of Murray to King James,
321. The Bishop of Galloway to King James,
322. Mr Patrick Galloway to King James,
323. Lord Binning to King James,
324. The Provost and Baillies of Edinburgh to King James,
325. Lord Binning to King James,
326. Lord Binning to King James,
327. The Archbishops and Bishops to King James,
328. His Majesty to the Archbishops of St Andrews and Glas-
gow, ......
329. His Majesty to the Archbishop of St Andrews,
330. The Bishop of Caithness to King James,
331. An Apologetick by Mr Archibald Symson against a false
pretended Palinode, ....
332. The Earl of Dunfermline to King James,
1617.
Page
1
July,
816
29 June,
816
(no date),
505
21
August,
506
5
September, 508
15
,,
509
5 November
,511
7
„
515
11
„
517
20
„
519
28
„
520
28
»
522
6 December,
524
11
„
525
10
»
526
11
527
23
„
534
333.
334.
335.
33o.f
336.
337.
338.
339.
340.
341.
342.
344.
343.
345.
346.
347.
348.
M.DC.XVIII.
His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council,
Act of Privy Council enjoining the Observance of the Fy ve
Holy Days, .....
His Majesty to the Archbishops and Bishops,
The Archbishops and Bishops to Patrick Forbes of Corse,
His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council,
Patrick Forbes of Corse to the Archbishop of St Andrews,
The Archbishop of St Andrews to Mr Thomas Mitchell,
The Archbishop of St Andrews to Patrick Forbes of Corse,
Patrick Forbes of Corse to Mr Thomas Mitchell,
Patrick Forbes of Corse to Mr Thomas Mitchell,
The Ministers of the Diocese of Aberdeen to Patrick Forbes
of Corse, .
The Archbishop of St Andrews to King James,
Sir James Lundie to King James,
The Archbishop of St Andrews to Mr Thomas Mitchell,
The Bishop of Galloway to King James,
Sir Gideon Murray to King James,
Charge to the Commissioners for Planting Kirks,
The Bishop of Galloway to King James,
14 January, 542
22
540
27
542
5 February,
543
9
817
16
•345
16
550
16
550
18
551
12 March,
552
24 „
553
29 „
554
8 April,
556
26 „
555
(no date),
558
2 May,
559
13 „
561
(no date),
562
Mil
CONTENTS.
No.
349. The Archbishops and Bishop of Galloway to lung James,
350. His Majestj to the Archbishop of St Andrews,
351. His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council, 27th July, and
Act of Council, ....
t.'.L'. I li» Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council, 27th July, and
Ait of Council, ....
."■•">.' 1. His Majesty to the Commissioners of the General Assembly,
The Bishop of Galloway to John Murray,
155. Lord Binning to King James,
356. DrJohn Young, Dean of Winchester, to B. Boyd of Troehrig,
;.">7. The Archbishop of St Andrews to King James,
The Archbishop of St Andrews to John Murray,
359. The Bishop of Aberdeen to King James,
300. His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council,
361. The Provost and Lai Hies of Edinburgh to King James,
3614 Mis Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council,
362. Lord Binning to King James,
163. The Archbishop of Glasgow to the Presbytery of Ayr,
364. Lord Binning to King James,
365. Mr Andrew Aidy, Principal of Marisehal College, to King
James, ......
366. The Bishop of Murray to King James,
M.DC.X1X.
•5G7.t Act of Privy Council in favour of the Bishop of Galloway,
367. Lord Binning to King James,
368. Lord Binning to King James,
369. Hi- Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council,
370. The Bishop of Murray to King James,
371. Lord Binning to King James,
• 572. Lord Binning to King J i
:i73. His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council,
■ 174. The Bishop of Murray to King James,
17.*>. The Archbishop of Armagh to the Earl of Dunfermline,
i7o. The Archbishop of Glasgow to the Earl of Dunfermline,
■ 177. His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council, 12th June, and
Art of < louncil, ....
378. The Earl of Melros to King James,
379. &.Cts of Privy Council respecting the Communion at
Easter, .....
380. The Lords of Privj Council to King James,
1618. Page
1G June, 563
(no date), 564
30 July,
566
30 „
567
10 (19) „
568
10 August,
571
27 „
573
, 30 „
577
2 Septembei
•,579
2
580
9
582
29
583
21 October,
584
7 November
,818
28
585
29
586
6 December
, 588
(no date),
589
"
591
19 January,
819
30
5! 12
4 February.
593
8
594
24
595
8 March,
597
29 „
598
17 May,
600
(no date),
601
24
602
11 June,
603
17 „
605
18 „
607
17 A: 22 „
609
24
Gil
CONTENTS.
No.
381. His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council,
382. His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council, 7th July, and
Act of Council, ....
383. The Bishop of Murray to King James,
384. His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council, 5th August,
and Act of Council, ....
385. Act of Privy Council for burning the book, " Perth
Assembly," .....
386. Mr John Welsh to Mr Robert Bruce,
387. His Majesty to the Archbishop of St Andrews,
1619.
Page
0 July
613
15 „
614
25 „
616
12 August, 617
27 October, 618
20 November, 619
620
M.DC.XX.
388. Mr John Hume to Mr John Adamson, . . 9 March, 621
389. His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council, . 30 „ 623
390. The Archbishop of St Andrews to King James, . 30 April, 624
391. Act of Privy Council, .... 10 May, 625
392. Minute of Proceedings of the Privy Council, . 8 June, 626
393. His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council, 30th May, and
Act of Council, .... 8 „ 628
394. The Lords of Privy Council to King James, . 15 „ 629
395. Mrs Esther Inglis to King James, . . . 20 „ 631
396. The Bishop of Aberdeen to King James, . . 4 July, 633
397. Orders for Repressing of Popery, . . . (no date), 636
398. The Bishop of Orkney to the Earl of Dunfermline, 22 November, 637
399. Mr Henry Blyth to Mr Henry Charteris, . . 26 December, 639
400. Notes by Mr Patrick Galloway of his Sermon on Christ-
mas Day, ..... (no date), 641
401. Mr William Struther to the Earl of Melros, . „ 642
M.DC.XXI.
402. The Archbishop of St Andrews to John Murray,
403. The Archbishop of St Andrews to John Murray,
404. The Earl of Dunfermline to John Murray,
405. His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council,
406. The Archbishop of St Andrews to John Murray,
406.| His Majesty to the Archbishop of St Andrews, the
Chancellor and Secretary,
407. The Bishop of Murray to King James.
408. His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council, 12th May
Act of Council,
409. The Archbishops and Bishops to King James,
Lord
, and
9 January,
30
30
31
'■> March,
643
645
646
648
649
29 April, 820
(no date), 650
5 June,
10 July,
651
652
CONTENTS.
No.
HO. Ai't- of the Privy Council against Mr Alexander Simsone,
and Mr Andrew Duncan,
til. The Archbishop of St Andrews to King James,
-I L2. The Earl of Melros to King James,
413. The Ratification by Parliament of the Five Articles of the
Perth Assembly, ....
414. The Earl of Melros to King James,
H5. Hi^ Majesty to the Archbishops and Bishops,
lll'i. The Archbishop of Glasgow to King James,
417. Acts of Privy Council against Mr Robert Bruce,
1 1 8. The Archbishop of St Andrews to the Presbytery of Had-
dington, .....
419. The Lords of Privy Council to King James,
419.f Declaration of Mr Robert Bruce to the Lords of Privy
Council, .....
420. Act <'t' Privy Council respecting Duncan and Simsouu,
121. Bis Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council, 29th September,
and Act of Council, ....
li'L'. Bis Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council,
IL'.;. IIi-~ Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council, 8th December,
and Act of Council, ....
424. The Archbishop of Glasgow to King James,
Page
23 July,
653
3 August,
655
3
656
4
658
4
661
12
662
6 „
664
29 August &]
19 Sept., !
665
5 „
667
10 October,
668
(no date)
821
10
669
22 November, 670
19 „ 672
18 December, 673
30 „ 075
M.nc.xxu.
425. The Lords of Privy Council to King James,
426. His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council,
427. The Earl of Melros to King James,
128. UN Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council,
129. The Archbishop of St Andrews to John Murray,
130. The Archbishop of St Andrews to King James,
431. The Archbishop of St Andrews to John Murray,
132. Ili^ Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council, 27th May, and
Act of Council,
133. The Archbishop of St Andrews to King James,
4.'i4. The Bishop of Galloway to John Murray,
435. The Archbishop of St Andrews to John Murray,
136. A<t of Privy Cou aing -Ministers' Stipends in
Orkney, ....
4.'!7. The Archbishop of Glasgow to Mr Robert Boyd,
138. The Archbishop of Glasgow to the Viscount of Annand,
22 January,
6 February,
22 April,
IS May.
27 ..
30 „
30 „
6 June,
6 ,.
13 „
19 „
25 „
7 August,
20
676
678
678
680
681
683
684
686
687
688
689
691
692
693
CONTENTS.
No.
439. The Lords of Privy Council to King James,
440. His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council,
441. The Archbishop of St Andrews to the Viscount of Annand,
442. The Archbishop of St Andrews to Mr Eobert Boyd,
443. Mr Andrew Duncan to the Archbishop of St Andrews,
444. His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council, 30 October,
and Act of Council, ....
445. Act of Privy Council, Charge against Mr Andrew Duncan,
446. The Archbishop of Glasgow to the Viscount of Annand,
M.DC.XXIII.
446.f His Majesty to the Lord Chancellor, &c,
447. Act of Council in favour of William Laing,
448. The Archbishops of St Andrews and Glasgow to King
James, ......
449. The Bishop of Caithness to King James,
450. The Earl of Melros to King James,
451. The Archbishop of Glasgow to King James,
452. The Earl of Melros to King James,
453. The Archbishop of St Andrews to Viscount of Annand,
453.f His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council,
454. Bernard Lyndsay of Lochill to Viscount of Annand,
455. The Bishop of Dumblane to King James,
456. Mr James Law of the Chapel-Royal to King James,
457. Information concerning his Majesties Chapel Royal,
457.f His Majesty to the Commissioners on Bents in Scotland,
458. Sir Archibald Napier to King James,
459. The Dean and Prebendaries of the Chapel Royal to King
James, ......
460. Mr James Law to King James,
461. The Bishop of Dumblane to the Viscount of Annand,
462. Mr Robert Bruce to the Lords of Privy Council,
463. The Archbishop of St Andrews to the Viscount of Annand,
464. The Archbishop of St Andrews to the Viscount of Annand,
465. Act of the Privy Council, on the return of Prince Charles
from Spain, .....
466. The Viscount 'of Lauderdale to the Viscount of Annand,
467. The Bishop of Galloway to the Archbishop of St Andrews,
468. The Bishop of Galloway to the Viscount of Annand,
469. Mr William Whitefurd to the Viscount of Annand,
470. Proposed Letter in favour of Mr William Whitefurd,
1622.
Page
28 August,
693
12 September, 694
16
695
17 October,
697
23
698
14 November, 700
21
703
13 December
, 704
20 January,
823
23
706
8 February,
707
8
708
3 March,
709
15 April,
710
16 „
711
11 May,
713
14 ,,
823
16 „
714
17 „
715
(no date).
716
„
717
20 July,
824
1 August,
720
5
721
14
724
21
725
10 September, 726
30
727
8 October,
728
13
729
27 November,
730
11 December,
732
11
733
26
734
(no date),
735
CONTENTS.
No.
471.
472.
472.J
473.
473.|
474.
475.
476.
476-f
470.tt
47G.«
477.
478.
479.
480.
481.
481.f
481.ft
482.
482.f
482.tt
483.
484.
485.
485.t
486.
486.t
486.tt
487.
487.f
488.
488.f
488.ft
489.
M.DC.XX1V.
The Archbishop of St Andrews to the Viscount of Annand,
Act of Privy Council admitting the Bishop of Dunkeld,
His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council,
The Bishop of Duniblane to the Viscount of Annand,
The Lords of Privy Council to the Archbishop of Glasgow,
Act of Privy Council in favour of Mr Robert Bruce,
The Lords of Privy Council to King James,
Examinations of Eig, Dickson, and others,
His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council,
His Majesty to the Lord Chancellor,
His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council,
Acts of the Privy Council —
Charge against Mr Robert Boyd and others,
Act in favour of Mr Robert Boyd,
Act against Mr John Murray and others,
The Lords of Privy Council to King James,
The Lords of Privy Council to King James,
The Officers of State to King James,
The Lords of Privy Council to King James,
The Lords of Privy Council to the Bishop of Aberdeen,
The Lords of Privy Council to the Bishop of Ross, .
The Archbishop of St Andrews to the Viscount of Annand,
The Lords of Privy Council to the Archbishop of St
Andrews, .....
His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council,
The Lords of Privy Council to King James,
His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council, 21st July,
and Act of Council, ....
His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council,
His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council,
Act of Privy Council in favour of Mr Robert Bruce,
The Lords of Privy Council to the Archbishop of St
Andrews, ....
His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council,
His Majesty to the Lord Chancellor,
Ili> Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council,
The Lords of Privy Council to King James,
His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council,
The Lords of Privy Council to some of the Nobility,
His Majesty to the Lord Chancellor,
1624.
20 January,
27
3 March,
5 „
11 „
16 „
30 „
30 „
5 April,
19 „
20 May,
8 June,
15 „
24 „
10 „
15 „
1 July,
1 „
1 „
18
18
29
735
737
825
738
826
739
740
742
827
828
824
745
746
747
748
750
752
754
830
831
756
832
832
758
29 „ 760
30 „ 762
31 „ 833
25 August, 763
25 „ 834
29 „ 835
(no date) 764
20 September, 836
22 „ 765
22 „ 837
1 October, 838
1 November, 768
CONTENTS.
No.
490.
491.
491.f
492.
493.
Act of Privy Council against Mr George Pryde,
The Archbishop of St Andrews to the Earl of Annandale,
His Majesty to the Lord Chancellor,
His Majesty to the Lords of Privy Council, 26th Novem-
ber, and Act of Council,
Act of Privy Council, Dispensation with the Proclamation
anent the Communicating at Christmas,
1624. Page
4 November, 7Gb
18 „ 769
26 „ 839
15 December, 771
15 „ 772
494.
495.
496.
496.f
497.
498.
499.
500.
501.
li*
13
13
13
M.DC.XXV.
His Majesty to the Lord Chancellor, . . 12 January, 774
James Douglas, of the Bed-Chamber, to the Lord Chan-
cellor, ......
Acts of the Privy Council —
Warrand to William Rig,
Proclamation against infamous Libels,
The Lords of Privy Council to the Archbishop of St
Andrews, .....
Acts of the Privy Council —
Anent the Town of Edinburgh, . . 19 „
Warrand to William Rig, ... 3 February,
Answers of the Provost, Baillies, and Council of Edin-
burgh to his Majesty's Articles for dividing the Town
into Parishes ; with his Majesty King Charles's Notes
upon the said Answers, .... 29 July,
The Archbishop of St Andrews to his Majesty King
Charles, ..... 2 October, 788
Acts of the Privy Council, containing the Ratification
of some Articles concerning the Burrough of Edin-
burgh ; with his Majesty's Letter for Warrand of the
said Ratification, &c, dated 19 October, 1, 2, and 7 November, 789
774
775
776
840
777
778
780
1614.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 351
CCXV.— THE ARCHBISHOP OF GLASGOW TO JOHN MURRAY.
Sir,
I cam to Edinburgh the fecund of Julj : thair I had occafioun
to meit with the Erie of Caffilis, qho ftandis to the offer he maid to me
of his dimiflioun of the Balzerie of Carrik, and hes ratefeit the fam to
my Lord Secretary and Sir Gedeon Murray. He is myndit to be at the
Bathe this feafon, and wil in his return dimit the fam to his Maieftie,
without feking any fatiffa<5tioun thairfore, but his Maiefties favour. I
gaif the Secretary and Sir Gedeon his Maiefties letter anent that bufi-
nes, and communicat with tham the inftru6tiounis I refiavit. We con-
concludit to deal with the heritable Schireffis as we fuld haif occafioun
feverally, eche of ws mifknowing otheris for the more fecrecy. The Erie
of Home hes two offices, the Stewartrie of the Earldom of Marche, and
Schireffchip of Berwick. This laft, be the forfeyture of Bothwel, is that
qhiche he wold alienat ; but the other, qhiche thai fay is of greater
jurifdictioun, he meanis to retein. It wer not meit he fuld refaif fatis-
fadlioun for one, and not for the other alfo ; qhairfore the Secretary
wold be rememberit, in ending with him, if thai agre, to deal for bothe.
For the Lord Gray, he fayis, he promifit only to mak him refaif conten-
tatioun for his office, qhiche ony man mycht haif promifit and per-
forinit. The Erie of Argyle is faid to be on his jorney towardis Courte,
and to cum be the weft, that I think we fal not haif the occafioun now
to fe him.
The Marques of Huntly returnit this laft Fryday. We hear nothing
of his reconciliatioun to the Churche, nor that ony thing hes been pro-
poned twiching his offices. This makis many think it is our fuggeftioun
to his Maieftie, and not his Hienes own purpofe, that makis thofe
thingis to be vrgit, and lb our invy is the greater, and the worke more
difficil for his religioun. The lying in this fufpenfe dois no litle harm.
His Minifter tellis, that qhair before the fufpending of his excom-
municatioun, he had in his paroche only thre recufantis, he hes this
yeir threfcore and threttein. Surly his Maieftie knowis not the worft,
352 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1614.
.Hid for the refpeft his Maieftie bearis to him, we ar compellit to for-
bear, and the Ohurche in the mean qhyl reiaifis grit harm.
The Erie of Sutherland fold haif enterit Lis ward in St Androife. He
lies left the contrey, and, as we hear, is cum thair to obtein a difpenfa-
tion. Gicht, thai lay, is cum to Courte for to obtein his libertie alfo to
remain at home. I doubte not his Maieftie will confider thofe things
rightly.
I haif fpoken with the Chancellar, and Sir Alexander Seatoun, his
nephew. The Chancellar fayis, that in his lyf never any thing trublit
him more then his Maiefties offenfe at that bufines of Eglintoun ; and
bothe he and Sir Alexander, with mony wordis and oathis proteft, thai
ar fo far from (landing in termis with his Maieftie, that, to gif his Hienes
contentment, thai wil not fear to fubmit thair lyfis, honouris, and landis,
and al ; only Sir Alexander, being provydit to the fucceflioun of that
living, and mmming in againft the lyking of many freindis of the
houfe, fearit, as he fayis, to do any thing that myght bring in queftioun
the honour and rank thai had formerly kepte ainongeft the nobilitie ;
for if he fold haif takin his honour be a new creatioun, the old wold haif
ben forgottin, and his enemyis afcryvit this to his weaknes ; otherwyfc,
that he can inioy honour or livinge but as from his Maieftie, and be his
Hienes favour ami benefit. As he wer foolifche to think it, fo dois he
tak no plefnre to inioy any of them without his Maiefties good plefure ;
and it' lie mav be i'o happie as to obtein his Hienes favour, it falbe al his
liudv to do in his place the belt fervice that pofiibly he can. Surly, as
I fchew his .Maieftie, the younge man is of gud expe&atioun, and one
that, I hope, fal pruif worthie of his Maiefties favour ; and fo it plefe his
Maieftie to provyd that, in honour and place due to that houfe of Eglin-
toun, be be not preiudgit, his Hienes may command him in qhat forte
be plefis, and prefcryve any thing, for it wilbe obeyit. Ye wold thair -
fore be ]>lelit to intreat his Maieftie, that in fuche maner as his Maieftie
fal think convenient for his honour, this bufines may find a fetling,
qhiche, 1 truft in God, his Maieftie fal never repent ; and if his Hienes
may be movit to admit him to prefence, and accept him in place, ye
may advyfe the Chancellar of the maner and tym. Alwvfe it falbe (it in
the ending of the erand to remember the Balzeric of Cunyngham, and
1614.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 353
to advertife the Chancellar thairof qhen ye wryt of the reft, that al
may be prepared, and thole thingis may be done togither ; for I haif
mufit nothing thairof, nor can wel do, in refpect. I haif ben thocht, be the
Chancellar and otheris, the only inftigator of thofe materis againft the
Heritable Schireffis ; and it wilbe meteft that ye, be his Maiefties com-
mand, fignifie the Him vnto him.
I haif conferrit with Drumlanrig, quhom I find alterit fumqhat fence
our laft communing. He fayis, that he never thocht ane agrement culd
wel be maid amongeft yow, vnleffe that turn of Linclowden wer fetlit to
bothe your contentments, that his Maieftie myght command the agre-
ment, and it wold cum for his credit moft that way ; but he wold know
qhat courfe fuld be takin in the erand it left", and qhat fatiffactioun he
myght luke for. I anfwerit, That I wonderit to fe him forget himfelf fo
far, and his own wordis ; for, fay I, qhen I faid to yow that it wer gud a
fubmiffioun wer maid to freindis for your ryght and kyndnes, ye anfwerit,
That it culd be no way to your credit if it cam not be the King's com-
mand, and at his Maiefties defyr, ye had honour to quyt it ; and qhen I
replyit, Your purpofe is not to quyt it without recoinpenfe, and fence ye
wil haif none be the gentleman him felf, but expeclis it at his Maiefties
handis, fchew me qhat is the particular ye wold fute, and before hand
I will try if it can be effectit. He faid, that he knew of none, nor had
ony particular in heid; only, he vnderftood, that hafing his Maiefties
favour, many occafionis wold fal qhairby ye myght be wel ynoughe
recompenfit, and ye wold truft to that. He culd not deny his own
wordis, but maid fuche commentarie vpon tham as agreit not with the
texte. We left our conference not wel plefit, but vpon promife to meit
again : He is in a bufines of buying the landis of Glencarn, and is
crofled be my Lord Sanquhar, qho I hope fal haif tham, and for qhom
thai ar fitter.
Yifterday Mr Patrik Galloway, in the Little Kirk, hes had a fermon
vpon the fyft verfe of the ellevint of Daniel, vpoun qhiche he took
occafioun to fpeik thus : — " Thair is nothing meant heir of the King of
Grit Britain, as that blafphemoufe mouthe vtterit in the Parliament
of England ; nor it can in ony fenfe be applyit to him : Wil thai fay, He
hes confumit the pleafant land ? Thai ly falfly vpon it : he hes no more
2 y
354 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1614.
thair but his clothe and meat, and that ho had with ws, with better con-
tentment, afore he went thair. Say, that he hes gifin preferment and
landis to that younge man ' that is with him : al that bydis with tham
felfis. For ws, we wer a pleafant land before his going thither ; and a
Churche we had that in beawtie fcbynit above al the Churches in the
world, neyther hcrefie nor errour, nor fchifm in it ; and wold to God we
bad continued lb ! Amongeft tham qhat found he ? Herefies mantenit
in thair fchules, blotis in thair Churche fervice, fchifmis and divifionis," —
and fo continewit a great fpace. I hear the auditours weryit much, and
cam away with no more inftruclioun. Qhat his Maieftie wil think of
the fpeechis, I know not, but, in my mynd, thai wer not pulpit fpeechis.
It is not nedful that any know be qhom the informatioun is gifin ; my
felf wes not in town. The Bifchope of Galloway wes ane hearer, and
tellis me this muche.
Your lady hes ben in Alloway ltil fince my return : I lent your let-
ter vnto hir ; and for this tym, hafing no larder to wryt, I tak my leave,
refting
Youris alwayis to command,
Edinburgh, the ellevint of Jul] 1614. Glasgow.
[To John Murray of Lochmaben.]
CCXVL— THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO JOHN MURRAY.
SlK,
Efter my hartlie coiumcndationis, pleafe wit thair is ane honeli
man, ane minifter heir in this countrey, called Mr James Thomfone,2
1 Sir Robert Carr, created Karl of Somerset.
2 Thomson succeeded Mr John Scharp, who was banished by the King in L606 (see p.
28), as Minister of Kilmany in Fife. He conformed to Presbytery in L638, and died
in 1G4G, his son, Mr George Thomson, in 1039, having been appointed his assistant and
successor.— (Records of the Synod of Fife. pp. 7, 20, 103, 228.)
1G14.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 355
who ferves ane of the Queenes Maiefties kirkis. I am defyred to wryte
to hir Maieftie in his favour, for he is ane good man, hot verie poore. I
will requeft yow that ye will delyver thofe vther two letters to Mr
Robert Atoun,1 hir Maiefties Secretar, and receive the anfwer thairof,
and returne the fame fo foone as goodlie ye may ; quhairin ye will do
good fervice to God, and oblifche me to continow your allured and
kyndlie freind to the end. Thus, I commit yow to the bleffing of God,
and I reft
Your affured and loving brother,
Sanctandrois.
Edinburgh, 12 Julij 1614.
To the right worfhipfull and my loving
brother, Johne Murraye, ane of the
Kingis Maiefties bedchamber.
CCXVIL— JOHN MURRAY OF LOCHMABEN TO THE EARL OF
DUNFERMLINE.
Ryght Honokabill,
I haue written thefe lynes to your Honour by his Maiefties derec-
tioune, to lett yow wnderftand that vpone Fryday the 22 of this inftant, at
12 a'clock, the King off Denmark come to Sommerfet Howie,2 and wes in
his Maiefties utter drawinge chalmer or he was knawin, noe body beand
in his companie, except Sir Androe Senclear and one page. He landit at
1 Or Aytoun : He received the honour of knighthood, about the year 1616.
2 In Nichols's Progresses of King James, vol. iii. p. 13-18, the various rumours and
particulars respecting Christian the Fourth, King of Denmark's second visit to England, at
this time, are collected. He left London on the 1st August : the object seems to have
been to consult his brother-in-law, King James, on a projected alliance between his son
and the youngest daughter of the King of Spain.
356 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1014.
5Tearmowthe ; tor als fone as his fcheipis come in feichte oft1 land, he caufed
thame i'tavc. and foe come owt in one ly till fcheepe-bote, with thre or
fowre gent : and the fkeipper miftakin the land, putt him owt too fonne,
and foe he was in great danger, iff he had not gottin one fyfchcr hot,
and lave in it all nvght. Noe man knowes the caus off his comynge, as
yet, and to wrytt ewere man his oppyneon is lvke the ringing of one bell,
foe I will forbear that part. His ftaye is not to be longe. His Maieftie
had word vpon Setterday, in the mornyng, hot could not beleift' it, at
3 a clock, hot the fertean word come to him at paffed eicht, wher he
was by Amptill, and rod that nvght to Londone, and come there betuix
!» and 10 one the nyght. He yead prefentle to [the] Quenis Cowrt to
him, and efter the being thair withe him. come to Whythalle all nyght.
His fchepis ar comynge abowt, and the Chanceller off Denmarke is in
thame, and the reft off his companie. Soe fone as he is gone, his
Maieftie goethe to his progres, and haldis it as he did, and comethe to it
as it is fett doun ; for his fluff and his howfe keepis all the remowes, as
he war thair, whill he come. This is all I can wrytt for the prefent ; and
for anfuer off your packettis, your Lordfhippe lhall hawe thame with the
nixt. So my humble feruice rememberit, I will remeane,
Your Honours effeclionat cowfen to ferwe yowe,
John Murray.
At Whvthall, the 24 July 1014.
(Tunir the letfi) (Turne ouir.~)
I will defir your Honour, as ewer vee will hawe me to ferwe yowe,
howc far as yee may, that Drumlanrik may be brocht within the lawc
at this tyme for his extraordiner pryd to my cowfen, my Lord
Sanchar, ami what yee wald hawe his Maieftie doe in it, let me know;
for iff this had noe bein, yee wald hawe hard frome him by this.
and foe whill yee know his pleafour, let him hawe no eafe, for fuche
reafones as 1 could fchawe yowr felff: for my letters, returne thame
to me. as I iliall your Lordfhip])e. This I remeat to your wifdomc and
care.
1614.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 357
( There is added, in reply, by the Earl of Dunfermline.*)
[The 28 off Julij, this mater betuix Lordis Sanquhair and Kilmaars
and Drumlanrike was endit and concludit, as I wraitte to yiow, 29 ;
and was done in fie forme as I hoipe his Maieftie, or onye rafonabill
man, will allow, in juftice and equitie, and for good obedience and guid
ordour.]
To the Ryl Hon11 my finguler good
Lord and cowfen, the Erie off
Dunfermeling, Lord Chanceller off
Scotland, and one off his Maief-
ties mofl Hon11 Priuie Cownfell,
thefe.1
CCXVIIL— THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL TO KING JAMES.
Pleis your most Excellent Maiestie,
Vpoun the Bifchope of Orknay his lait returne hack out of the
boundis of his Diocie, whair particular tryell had bene takin by him, of
the trew valew and efteat of thefe landis wiche wer affigned and deftinat
to him, for the patrimonie of the Bifchoprick ; it is now by [him]
reported, that the rent of thefe landis dothe not furpafe, in yeirlie worth,
the fumme of eight thowfand markis, over and befydes the gerffumes
whilk everie thrid yeir being valowed to xiiijc or xvc ti. by divifioun
theirof, will augment the proportioun affigned in fum four or fyve hun-
dreth pundis a yeir. And becaus the fpedye courfe and ordour taking
for the Bifchopes fetling in thefe boundis wilbe no fmall help of the
fecuiring of your Maiefties peace and obedience ; and that the difference
of computation betuix the Bifchope and your Maiefties Thefawrer De-
putie, proceideth vpoun accompting vp of the pryces of pultrie, and peitis,
and of the money reffaived frome fifchear boatis, for grund leif, and fum
1 This letter is endorsed, " 1614, Jhone Murray, 24 Julij. K. Denmarkis arriuall to
Ingland, etc. Rd. vlt°. Julij. Ansuired 4. Augusti."
368 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1614.
vther few particular articles not nmelie to be regairdeit, except in that
mater of the gerfwmes valewed at iiij'' or vc ti. a yeir ; in which diver-
lit ie of accomptes, by the Bifchopes vnder valewing the rent of thefe
lamlk as being verve ewill payment, and by the Thefawreris deputie
liis inoft ftrict, dewtifull, and exact tryell takin on the other pairt,1 for
preventing of your Maiefties preiudice in not omitting any thing vn-
compted, we hold the gerfumes to be the cheiff matcriall poynt contra-
verted hetuix thanie; whairin your Maiefties awin plciffour and deter-
minatioun is bothe defyred and expected, in regairde the fpedye returne
fcheirof, wilbe a redye mean to furder your Maiefties fervice in thefe
boundis. We theirfore humble intreate your Maieftie to certefie your
gratious pleiffour, whither the aforfaid Affignatioun of landis, appoynted
to be mortelied for a patrimonie to the laid Bifchoprick, falbe condi-
fcendit vnto, notwithftanding, that in the computatioun of the yeirlie
rent of the fame, thefe gerfumes are not comprehendit, and alfo no
refpeel had to the pryces of peittis and pultrie, or the dewtie for the
ground leive ; or gif a proportionabill defalcatioun falbe takin of fo many
landis, furthe of that Affignatioun, as may countervail] the yeirlie eftimat
wurthe of thefe gerfwmes. And expecting your Maiefties gratious and
fpedye anfwer, efter humble kifling your Sacred hand, and prayer to God
for you Hiencs prcfervatioun, we reft
Your Maiefties moft humble, dewtiefull, and
faithful] fubieclis and feruitours,
Ax. Cancells.
Binning.
Alexr. ILvt.
Jo. Prestoun.
S. W. Olipiiant.
Edinburgh, the xxvij Julij 1014.
To the King his moll Sacred and
excellent Maieftie.
See these respective statements, printed as Nos. CCVL, CCVII., and CCVIII.
1614.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 359
CCXIX— THE BISHOP OF ORKNEY TO JOHN MURRAY OF
LOCHMABEN.
Right honorabill Sik,
According to his Maiefties laft direction, I fett doune vnder my
hand fome reafones for the whiche the landis aggreed vpon, with ther
girfomis and wholl cafualties, fould be difponed to me and my fucceffors
without any diminution. The famin wer fent to Court, and receiued
ther, as my Lord Thefaurer did eertifie the Lordis. Since that tyme I
haue been in Orcnay, and partly be the laft takis fett be the Earll and
his deputies to the tenentis, partly be the Tackifmenis faithful] depofi-
tions and juft rentallis fett doune and fubfcryued withe ther handis, for
the whiche they will be anfuerabill vpon all hieft paines, I haue tryed,
fund, and declared, that the wholl rentis of the landis nominat and
deligned will not mak full and compleit payment of eight thowfand
marks yeirle, withe the thriddis, quherof I thoght it neceffar to giue yow
notice.
My Lord Thefaurer fhew vnto me the copie of the laft informa-
tioun whiche he fent to his Maiefte concerning the worthe of the
landis ; quherin, if the pryces of pultrie, paittis, and girfomis be fub-
duced, ther will not be tuentie pund Scottis in difference betuixt his
Lordfchipis compt and myne, as he dois acknawledge him felf ; and this
wes and is euer trew, that thefe cafualties being fubduced, the rent it
felf will not be equivalent to the proportion of the founds of money and
thriddis contracted to me. So the girfomis is the only thing in queftion,
whiche can not (as I haue trewle tried and declared to the Lordis) be
eftemed worthe mor then four hunder and fourtie pundis by year, thoght
they wer compleitle payed. Bot this is the treuthe, as I falbe anfuer-
able vpon loffe of credit : Thefe girfoms, impofed euerie thrid yeir vpon
the poor tenentis, wer neuer payed, for the moft part, to the Earll him
felf, for all the rigor lie could vfe, nor ar the tenentis, whofe fermes ar
racked to the vttermoft, euer abill to pay them in fuche fort, that I
fould ather accept them for a part of my rent, or a part of the iuft rent
360 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1614.
fould be fubtra&ed for them. Nay, Sir, I do affur yow, vpon my con-
fcience and treuth, that the rent it felf is fo racked, that I can not hauo
half payment, or lit ill aboue therof, this yeir, and the beft yeiris neuer
abon payment of the tuo part. I fett doune, in my laft letter, many
other reafonB, wifhing euer from my hart that his Maiefte wold be
pleafed to caufe mak vnto me, for my tyme, fome fecurite for payment
of the thriddis, and eight or fevin thowfand markis by yeir, rather then
all the rentis of thefe landis, and half als many mor.
1 am vearied withe much travell, my means are wholle fpent, my dept
is vnpayed, my loffis ar fo great, that I can not fee how to recouer any
part therof, and I am not liable to hold out longer, but muft needs
athei depart the countrie for dept, or begg, whiche I am afhamed to
do, or apply my felf to fome other thing to mantene me, if his Maieftie
now fchortle, efter fo long tyme, tak not ordour withe me. Befeiches
vow therfor, Sir, for any fervice I am able to do to yow, to lett me know
his Maicftes will and pleafur. If I can nather haue fecurite for thankful]
payment of the money and thriddis, nor the rentis of the landis, with
ther girfomis, to fupple the defect of evill payment (and all this can be
no hurt to his Maicftes rent, whiche is now termed), then I will erneftle
befeiche yow, Sir, to beg his Maieftes fauour, that I may refigne my
office and benefice, as I haue refolued, and declare to yow that I will
do, taking God to lie my witnes that I am inoft humble and devotle
affe&ed to ferue his Maiefte in any other place or condition, wher I may
haue fome competent mantenance.
And becauB this is ane poynt of good fervice to aduertife his Majeftie
• if the treuth, I do aifur yow, that the countrie of Orcney is now muche
trubled and oppreffed by the Earll his bafle Cone, called Robert, the de-
pu ti.'s to Sir .1 aincs Stewart contemned, manyhoneft and faithfull fubieclis
in gnat and dayle fear of ther lyves and goodis. He, afiiftcd withe thre
fcoir dehofched men, lies takin and fortified the place of Birfay, vphftis the
Kingis rentis, makis dayle and nichtle excuriions, taks the people, forces
mens houfes, and threatnis all his aduerfaries. The Counfell is advyfing
quhat ordour falbe takin, and I haue informed them of all mor ample.
Boi referring this to your discretion, and entreating yow to excuis me for
thus trubling of yow in my neceffitie, quherof 1 defyred erneftle to be
1614.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 361
freed, I pray God to bliffe yow in all your effairis and wholl courfe,
and reftis,
Youris in all dewte to feme yow,
Ja. B. of Orcads.
Edinburgh, 28 July1 1614.
To the right honorabill Jhone Murray of
Lincluden, of his Maieftes bed chamber.
CCXX— THE ARCHBISHOP OF GLASGOW TO JOHN MURRAY OF
LOCHMABEN.
Sir,
Ye haif inclofed in this pacquet a letter from the Bifchops to
his Maieftie, another from the Counfel in favoris of the Bifchop of
Orkney, defyring ane end fuld be put to his bufines, the lingring qhair-
of hes ben a grit caufe of breaking that countrey, qhil as neyther he
nor ony other of account wes to refill the enterpryfes of fuche as haif
uttemptit thair ; and it is cum to that ftate, that how, without bun
chargis to his Maieftie, and levying of foldioris to recover the Cattle
thai haif furpryfit, the countrey cannot be quyetit. I know they to
qhom the care belongis wil not fail to advertife of the ftate of matteris
thair, thairfore I meddle not with it ; only, the longer the remedy be in
applying, the cure wilbe the more difficil. I will pray yow haif care of
the Bifchop of Orkney his bufines, that we may haif anfwer thairof, and
directions for ending it with diligence.
1 In the original, the date seems to be 28th August. This, however, cannot be cor-
rect, as the reference at the close of the letter to the disturbed state of the Orkney
Islands corresponds with the Privy Council Records on the 28th of July. It will further
be seen, from a letter dated 27th August, that Bishop Law had then returned to Orkney,
in company with the Earl of Caithness, to assist in suppressing the rebellion.
2 z
362 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G14.
I wrote before twiching matteris committit to mc anent the Schireftis
and the Erie of Eglintoun, qhairof I haif expectit from yow anfwer that
is QOl vit cum. In the mean tym, we haif endit with Burlsy1 anent his
right of Eylwynning, and contractit with him for ten thowand lit), qhair-
of I tak vpon me the payment of the half: he is to cum him felf with
the fecuritiea and gift of the Abbacy in my perfon, qhairof, if ye hear
am thing, I pray yow gif it the furtherance ye may. If he tak another
advyfe to flay or not to cum haflely, I wil fend in this fum the gift to
be liimed, and his letter teftifeing his confent, qhiche, becaufe of the
feafon, mnil be furtherit, that I may haif, vpon the gift, inhibitionis ralit
in tym vpon the Kirkis.
For Sanqhar's attains with Drnmlanrig, we expectit fum advertifment
from Courtc, that I'nld haif helpit ws at Counfal. Since his committing,
thair lies ben grit travellis takin for his hbertie, and every day the
Counfal (ate, fuche dealing as it wes not without grit difficultie put off
tn villerdav, the matter ever paffing by votis, qhairof we that flood for
his retayning wer ellevin, and thai that laborit [for] his fredome ten. Yif-
terday, be the prefence of fum mo then afore, thai prefit the conclufioun of
the bufines, and we feing no way to efenew it, advyfit my Lord Sanqhar
to reconcile with him; qhiche wes done be command of the Councel,
he lirlt haling acknowledgit his fault, and offering fatiffachoun. His
freindis vrgit his fyning alio to be endit, before warrand fuld come
from Courte. The Thefaurar oppofit, but being overfet be voycis, we
bandlit it fo as be is fynit in thre thowfand merkis, and commandit to
keip within Edinburgh til he pay the fowm. I cannot tel yow how far
thai offendit at this conclufioun, thai efpecially in Counfal that flood for
him. fuche as the Prefident, St Androwis, and Roxburghe ; but the Sec-
retary, Sir Gedeon, Clerk of Regiflcr, Advocat, and otheris that we culd
inak furi'. think that the gentleman lies ben fo vfit as he wil not kvthe
fuche wantones fchortly beirafter. Since the mater is endit, it wer not
unua that his Maieftie fuld fchew be a letter to the Counfal his content-
' sir Michael Balfour of Burleigh, who had Wen raised to the Peerage, in 1G06,
by tlir title "I Lord Balfour of Burleigh. Respecting the several grants of the barony
ami teindia of the A.bbaoy of Kilwinning, see Douglas's Peerage, by Wood, vol. i.
I>p. 18U. 501, 502.
1614.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 363
ment with the proceding, that thai hold rigoroufe, and twich thain
fuinqhat that, being Counfelloris, fuld be procuraris for fuch infolent
dealing, and the overfyght thairof, his being the very caufe of al truble,
that thai ar not repreffit qho commit fuch ryots. Luking fchortly to
hear from yow, I tak my leave, and reftis,
Your owne affurit to command,
Glasgow.
Edinburgh, the 29 of Julj 1614.
This morning, newis ar cum from Orkney that the Erles bale founne
is befeging the Caflel and Bifchopis houi'e of Kirkwal, and he pofleflit
him felf of the girnelhoufe. Sir James Stewart lies vndertakin, be the
Counfelis direclioun,1 to levie fum foldioris, and with the forcis he can to
go in the country and reprelfe that rebellioun.
To my honourabill good freind, Jlion
Murray of Lochmaben, of his Maief-
ties bedchalmer.
CCXXI THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO JOHN MURRAY, OF
HIS MAIESTIES BEDCHAMBER.
Right Worschipfull Sir,
Efter the remembrance of my loving commendations, pleafe
yow receive this paket, quhairin ar fome directions to his Majeftie, and
returne ane anfuer of thain with als great diligence as poffible ye mav ;
for lb they requyre. I fent ane paket to yow, with fome prefentations
for Minifters about twentie dayes fince, bot hes not received thame bak
1 At this time the Privy Council had resolved that Sir James Stewart of Killeith
should be employed in this service, " in respect he is Schiref, Judge, and Chalmerlane
of the countrie ;" but the Earl of Caithnes was preferred.
364 OBIGUFAL LETTERS RELATING [1614.
agane. 1 will requeft yow, Sir, if they be exped, to returne thamc
thither with the firfl oecafion. Thus not dowting of your affiftance for
difpacht of thir affaires, as 1 (all be ready to pleafour yow and yowris, I
commit yow to the grace of God, and fall rernane,
Your loving and affured brother,
Sanctandrois.
St Androis Caftle, 3 Auguft 1614.
To the right worfchipfull and my loving
brother, John Murray, one of his Ma-
jefties bedchamber.
CCXXII.— THE ARCHBISHOP OF GLASGOW TO KING JAMES.
Most Sacred and Gratiouse Soveraigne,
The agrement for Kilwinning Abbacy is maid and endit between
the Lord Burley and me. In lyk forte ar the conditionis perfeclit be-
twen Sir Alexander Setoun and me anent the tithis of the Cunninghamis
landis, qhail thai half any within the Churchis allottit to him; for the
fpecial Churchis ijhair the Erie of Glencarn and his frendfehip haif thair
landis, fal in that portioun qhiche, be your Maiefties favour, is affignit to
i iic. 1 trull the Lord Chancellour lies teftifeit be his letter fo muche to
your Maicliit •; and now, becaufe of the harveft feafoun, qhairin inhibi-
tiounis wold be l'ervit vpon the tithis, I haif fent the lignatour of the
Abbacy, to qhiche I mult humbly intreat your Maiefties hand. If it
plefe Qod that I live a litle qhyl, the pofteritie fal find a princly worke
• lone by your Maiefties liberalitic to our Colledge, and your Hienes
favour (albe fen to be wel beftowit. Xevther haif any of the Cunnyng-
hamis caufe to complein, being better provydit for in the furtie of thair
tithis, then tliein l'eliis culd haif done, at the leall in tliis, that thai fal
not in thair competitoris handis, nor ar thai to do tham any reverence
1614.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIES. 365
in that behalf. Humbly intreating your Maiefties favour for figning the
gift, I pray God Almyghtie to blefle your Hienes with longe and
happie dayis.
Your Maiefties moft humble and obedient fervant,
Glasgow.
Edinburgh, the 3 Auguft 1614.
To his moft Sacred Maieftie.
CCXXIII.— THE ARCHBISHOP OF GLASGOW TO JOHN MURRAY OF
LOCHMABEN.
Sir,
This pacquet hes the fignatour of Kilwinning, for qhiche we haif
agreit with the Lord Burley to pay him ten thowfand lib. at Martimes,
and haif maid him fecuritie. My Lord Eglintoun and 1 haif alfo paft
our contract, in the maner I fchew his Maieftie and yow, qhairby I
haif him bound to fet al the Cunynghamis tithis to tham felfis. I
wrote to yow before of his anfwer to me, anent the fubmiffioun of
him felf in the matter of the Erledom to the King, qhairanent I ex-
pect to hear from yow, and praying God to gif yow ane happie pro-
grefle, I reft
Youris ever to command,
Glasgow.
Edinburgh, the 3 Auguft 1614.
Sik,
This fignatour wold be haftit becaufe of the feafon, that I may
haif Inhibitiounis in tym fervit ; thairfore, I pray yow, fend it to me with
366 olMCINAL LETTERS RELATING [1014.
the tirlt occafioun. The Chancellar lies teftifeit our agrement be his
letter, and myn to his Maieftie is only for that purpofe.
To my honourabill good freind, Jhon
Murray of Lochmaben, of bis Ma-
iefties bedchamber.
CCXXIV.— THE EARL OF DUNFERMLINE TO KLNG JAMES.
.Mm st Sacred Souerane,
It has pleafed yiour maift gracious Maieftie, fend unto me direc-
tioun, be the Archbifchioppe off Glafgow, on the 19 Junij, for fatling
and eftabliihing the eftaitt off the Abbacie and Kirkis off Kilwinning,
lirtuix the laid Arcbibifcbioppe, the Lord Burlie, and mv Xcpuieu Eglin-
toun, on certane eondicions fpecifeit in yiour Maiefties letter off the dait
t'ori'aid. Quhilk 1 haue thocht meit, be this prefent, to infmuat to yiour
Maieftie, to be fulhe endit and agreit on amangis all the faidis three
parties, in all headis, as yiour Sacred Maieftie ordoned, and all at the
Archibifchioppis ficht and aduife. For my Nepuieu has folio-wed him
and his counJaU in this, as participant off your Sacred minde in all
concerning that puirpois. As I hoipe he fall doe in all he may onder-
ftand to be yiour gracious will and pleafour during all his lyff. Lyk as
tree all oil' that poore Houfe fall eiuer be readie to facrifice our moyen-
nis and lvnis in yiour Maiefties feruice. Quhome to in all deuotion off
hairt. wiJEng all happines and profperitie, reftis eiuer,
Yiour moft Sacred Maiefteis maifl humbill and
affeclionat fubieel; and feruitour,
DrNFERSU.JNE.
Prome Halyruidhous,
4 Auguft 1U14.
To the Cingifl maifl Sacred Maietlie.
1614.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 367
CCXXV.— THE EARL OF DUNFERMLINE TO JOHN MURRAY.
RlCHT HONORABILL CoUSING,
I thank yiow hartlie for yiour aduertil'ement off the King oft'
Denmarke his airmail to our maift gracious Maifteris Court, quhilk was
werie onkow and onexfpe6ted be me. I doubt nocht bot his Maieftie is
werie weill pleafed thairwith, and I pray God he may haue faiff and
happie returne hame. Gif onye ame or fpeciall intentioun1 haue bein
in his iornay, I hoip yie will latt us underftand off it heirafter, as it fall
cuiin to yiour notice.
I fend to yiow heirwith fuim lettiris from the Bifchop off Glafgow, and
ane off mine to his Maieftie, quhilk is to certifie his Maieftie all maters
ar endit anent Kilwinning, betuix my Lord off Glafgow, my Lord
Burlye, and my Nepuieu Eglintoun, in thefe fame termis his Maieftie
did write to me was his intentioun that fould tak end. My Nepuieu
did all at the Bifchioppis direclioun. I hoipe yie will ufe that matter
the beft yie can to my !Nepuiewis weill. And hoipes to heir farder from
yiow, fra the King off Denmarke be paft hame. Sua ending, this wiffis
yiow all happines.
Yiour louing Couiing to ferue yiow,
Frome Edinburgh, 4 Auguft 1614. Dunfermljne.
I returne to yiow heir with yiour awin letter, and writtin thairin anfuer ~
to ane point off yiour letter, writtin on the bak off the firft fheite.
I wifs yiow retire my lettir frome his Maieftie.
To the right honorabill my weilbeloued
Coufing, Jhone Murray, in liis Sacred
Maiefties bedchalmer.
1 See note to page 355. 2 See this answer, supra, p. 356.
368 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1614.
CCXXVI.— SIB JOHN SKENE OF CUKMEHILL TO KING JAMES.
Sir,
It may plcis your Maieftie, that your vndei'eruit fauour and bene-
uolence toward me hes bene fo gryt and fauorable, that in all my
trubilhs and aduerfiteis I have had recourfe to your Maieftie as my
onlie refuge, and helper, vnder God ; fwa now, I have takin the baldnes,
nochtwithftanding your Maiefties gryt effaires, to remember your Hienes
of the lettir your Maieftie direetit to my Lordis of Glafquow and Secretar,
anent the office of Registration of Letteris of Hornying quhilk your
Maieftie promifit to me, to caufe the famyn to be gevin to my fon, M.
Alexander, and wes wrangouflie takin fra my fon M. Johnc.1 And that
thai fuld deall with this Clerk of Regifter to that effect ; quha hes done
thair diligence thairanent, and defyrit the famyn mater to be referrit to
to thame, as Jugis Arbitratouris ; quhilk I and my fon readelie obeyit.
Bot this Clerk of Regifter alluterlie refufit, and wald na wayis gif ony
other anfwer in that mater. Sua my Son is delayit and poftponit, and
I am diiappointit of the fumme of ane thowfand markis yeirlie, qliilk
my Son, obteining that office, fuld pay vnto me yeirlie, induring my
lyftym. Quhcrof I dout nocht bot your Maieftie will have refpect or
consideration, and caus direct yom* Hienes letter to the faid Clerk of
Regifter, commanding him to gif the faid office to my laid Son, conform
to your Maiefties will, and promife made to me thereanent. I am
affurit of your Hienes guid will in this my Petition, as I have had guid
experience of your Maiefties fauour and beneuolence for my lewing and
efteat : And fua committis your Maieftie to the protection of Almichtie
God. From Edinburgh, the ix day of Auguft 1614.
Your Maiefties lnunill and obedient
feruitour, and fubiect,
To the Kingis Sacred Maieftie. S. John Skene.
1 See notes to the Letters in this volume, marked Nos. CXCVII. and CCXXXIJI.
1614.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIES. 369
CCXXVIL— THE BISHOP OF ORKNEY TO LORD BINNING.
Right Honorabill my verrie speciall good Lord,
Pleas your Lordfchipe, we haue tryed heir greatar contempte
and obftinacie in the rebelles, les truft and willing obedience in the peo-
ple, then we could forelie or did expecL The difficulties quhiche we
encounter withe ar many, and gif God doe not fubdue the pryde of the
villanous knaves, there is great appeirance of muche blood fchadding
before the houfles and haulds can be takin.
My Lord Erie of Caithnes is notwithftanding full of curage and con-
ftante refolutioune never to geive over vntill it fall pleas God to giue
fuche vi&orie as may giue his Maieitie, and your Lordfchipes of his
Maiefties Pnuie Counfell, contentment,
His Lordfchipe fpaires nothing quhich may ferue to that effect, and is
this day, for helpe of our prefente wante of victuall, fending to Caithnes
for fupplie. He himfelfe, and all of ws, leiues lyk fouldiours, withe
verrie temperat dyet ; out in the daye and nicht, lying aboute dykes, or
within houffes no better then croffes ; and now invring oure felues to all
militarie hardnes for futur feruice.
Ratter, May, and his Lordfchipes freinds and feruands, ar in no beter
cace then his Lordfchipes felfe, and exceedinglie weill aftectit to do and
fuffer all things for the happie end of this feruice ; for quhiche caus, I
will befeiche your good Lordfchippe efpeciallie, and by the fame letter
my Lord Thefaurar alfo, quhois cair and diligence did eheiflie appeare
in our directioune hither, to incourage and furder this ^Nobleman, quho
lies willed rather to be buried in his grandfires graue (wharewithe he is
daylie threatned heir), then to forfaik this feruice, or omitt ony pairte of
that loyall dewtie, quhiche he ow to his Maieftie.
As for my felf and my buffines and fetling, I wil bot put your Lord-
fchip in mynd thareof, and rely conftantlie vpoune that goodwiU, quhiche
your Lordfchip bathe euir profeffed to me, and I do with muche confi-
dence perfwad my felfe of, thoght I haue not, nor can not deferue ane
drame weght thareof.
3 a
370 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1614.
We laauc not fo muche ink almoft, nor cannot hane it yitt frome the
toune, as to wryte tliir two or thrie letters ; bot knawing that your Lord-
fchip will impartc to him, and to thofe, quhome your Lordfchipe pleafes,
all quhich my Lord lies writtin particulate, I muft craue pardone for
this omiffioune ; and wifching frome [God] all grace, peace, and profpe-
ritie to your Lordfchip, and good fucces to thir Orknay warres, evir refts
Your Lordfchipes affured in all dewtie to ferue vow.
[Ja. B. of Orcads.1]
Weyland, the 27 of Auguft 1614.
As I was ending this wreet, my Lord himfelf hes begunne this dayes
playe agane, and hes hitt the Caftell with ane fchotte.
To the Right honourable his verrie good
Lord my Lord of Binning, his Ma-
iefties Secretarie of Scoteland.
CCXX VIII.— THE BISHOP OF ORKNEY TO LORD BINNING.
Right Honnokable my verie goode Lord,
The difficulteis of this feruice, and grite want of all thingis
neceffarie, hes moved ws to fend the poft, in poft to your Lordfhip for
fupplee and fpeedie fupport. Thair is no thing omittit, quhilk poffiblie
may be attemptit or atchiucd. Since the fyft of this inftant, whilk wcs the
date of our laft letters fend be land, tua peeceis lyand vpoun the tope of
the Caftell ar difmounted, ane grite breatche maid vpoun that pairt of
the houfe, quhair the ftairis fervis for afccnding and difcending, the blok
houfe beatin, fo that thair poulder and bullett had not bene wanting.
Our vther dayis playing had difcouerit the yrne yett, and maid ane way
' Not signed, but indorsed at the time, " Bishop of Orknay to the Secretary."
1614.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 371
for ane affault. The haill poulder, except half ane barrell, is fpont, and
all the bullettis for the cannoun, except nyne, as we haif tryed, be Robert
Elphinftoun and the cannonaris, for thair is bellowit vpoun this batterie
hftie fax lhoit of the cannoun, and 57 of the vther, and in all fourefcoir
ftanes of poulder. The wallis of the boclie of the houfe ar fo thick and
folide, that we can not think it poffible for thir tua peecis in lang tyme,
and without muche coift and danger, to prevaill aganis thame. The foul-
deouris wantis thair pay for this moneth, and we can not haif fo mutche
as the half or ony pairt thairof, advancit be takkifmen or chalmerlanis,
thoght we haif with the Shiref Depute imployit all our requeiftis and
commandis. Thair is alfo fuche penurie of victuall, that none can be
had for meate or drynk, for prayer or pryce. The rebellis ar reffoluit
obftinatlie to indure and hald oute ; and this day, becaus the cannoun
played not vpoun thame (haueing intelligence, for all that we can do, of
our wantis) thay jetted frome the Caftell in the moirning, aflcing, Quhy
our cannouns did fleip fo lang. Ane mercheant fhip of Glafgp arryveing
heir frome Dantifh or Cairftoun, we fend for the inaifter, and, knoweing
that he had fome poulder belonging to the merchantis, who ar not vpoun
hir, to help the prefent neceffitie, and forder his Maiefties feruice, the
Erll caufit tak foure centrellis of poulder frome hir at lxxx lib. the cen-
trell, and hes gevin his Lordfhip's band to him, that he falbe payit thair-
foir be j'our Lordlhip, quhen he comes to Edinburgh. The neceffityis
and wantis mult ather be helpit with all thingis requifite, or certanelie
the feruice can not be broght to that end whiche is wiihed and expectit.
Yf your Lordlhip pleis to affuir Robert and Patrik Halcrois of thair lyves,
thair is no grite doubt, hot thay wald gif ouer, and the reft rander thame
i'elfis ; bot yf that be not grantit, thair is no thing hot force to conftrain
thame. Thay haif lhoit the Inglife fmithe through the arme, befyde
the cannoun, and yifterday haif fhoit James Ritchiefoun, ane of the foul-
diouris, through the body. The gentilmen of the cuntrey wald be glaid
to fee ane end of thir troublis, quhairby, thay and all the people reflaues
grite hinderance and damageis. The Erll, his bruther, and freindis, ar
mantenit heir with maill and malt, frome Caithnes, and thoght thay be
refoluit euir to perfequute the feruice, yitt it is verie troublefome and
expenfiue to thame, and thair lyveis in daylie dangeir. Off the grite
372 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1GH.
norabcr of pcrfonis who lies bene fauouraris, affiftaris, and partakaris of
this rebellioun, we haif thoght beft to fend fome, with thair depofitionis
and eonfefiionis, to your Lordfliip, that thay may ather be punifhit thair
according to thair defervingis, or the cuntrey purgeit and maid red of
thame in all tyme comeing. So, afiureing our felfis that your Lordfliip,
according to your vfuall diligence, will, with all haift, poft bak the poft,
furnift with money for the fouldiouris, poulder, bullett, and victuall, as,
breade, meill, malt, and beir, to be fauld at fome reafounable raite ; and
wifheing grace and peace from God to your Lordfliip, I reft
Your Lordfhipes in all dewtie to ferue yow,
Ja. B. of Orcads.1
CCXXIX.— THE BISHOP OF THE ISLES TO LORD BINNING.
My speciall goode Lord,
Receaving frome my Lord Secretare, ane verie byiting lettre,2
laying the weytt of the taking of the houfe of Dunavaig, vpouu the
negligence of my keiparis theirof, and the long keiping theirof be the
rebellis, vpoun my fleuthe, whilk fcmed to proceid, ather of fome of my
vnfreindis informatioune of his Lordfchip, or els of his Lordfchipis con-
fait of me, whilk I neuer merited ; I preafed als cairfullie as my might
or credit micht extend to (albeit I wanttit both place, purfe, and credit
neidfull to haue affe6hiatit fuche ane earand), to releive my felf of that
1 Indorsed by Lord Binning : — " Copie of the Biseliop of Cathnes (s-ic) letter. Kessaued
13 Sept. ]f>14." In a letter to his brother, Patrick Hamilton, Lord Binning, on the same
day, 13th September, writes, — " I pray yow recommend to his Maiestie and my Lord
Chamberlane, the fauorable and speidie expedition of the Erie of Caithnes and Bischop
of Orknayos busines, and vse all possible haist in the returne of his Maiesties commande-
ments." — (The Melros Papers, vol. i. p. 153.) On the 28th September, he Bays, " I haue
ressaued the Bischop of Orknaycs signatours, whairin, God luiowes, I had no melling bot
for the aduancement of his Maiesties seruice." — (lb. p. 169.)
' See extract of a letter from Lord Binning, in the note to page 375.
1614.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 373
imputatione, and with all diligence I tuik my journey toward the Yles,
prouydit with fuche furnitour and fmall cumpany of men as I micht
with fuche haift procure ; and thinking my number too fmall to venture
in conference or plotting with rebellis, I fend fex of the beft of my cum-
pany weill acquented with theme, to theme with the remiffione ; think-
ing, that, according to thair oathe and promeife be wrytt, and vpoun
the refett theirof, they fuld liaue deliuered the houfe ; whilk they
returned anfuer with fome of my feruands to me, that they fuld be
reddie to do, within tua houris eftir they had advyfit, and being refoluit,
whidder the remiffione wes fufficient or no, as I wrait to your Lordfchip
of before. Vpoun the whilk promeife I fent ouer my feruandis the
fecund tyme, and I retted Hill in Arrane, thinking they fuld haue keipit
their promeife, but they returnit the fecund anfuer to me, that they
culd not delyuer that houfe, bot to my felf being perfonall prefentt, and
to reffaue ane fufficient affiirance be wreat, of my freindfchipe in all
tyme cuming ; and therefore, leift they fuld haue excufed their rebel-
lione in refpecl of my crayuing to come that far vnto theme, and leift
that your Lordfchip fuld haue layed ane new burdein vpoun my fleuehe,
in refpecl of the neglect of that feruice, and that, feiring the treacherie
of thefe rebellis, I prouydit fuche cumpany, as ather my credit amangft
my freindfhip, or of any money whilk I might procure, to convoy me
thair. The harueft wes ib great ane impediment, that the nightbouris
in the lies, and the Yles men themfelfis [wer] fo cairles in this feruice,
that for the molt pairt, all men refuifed me, and in fpeciall M'Len and
M'Leude of Hereis, fua that I culd obtene no nomber to go thairwith,
except threfcoir and ten perfonis, of the whiche their wes fyiftie wea-
geit foldiouris and tuentie followeris of the Laird of Ardincaple, my
nevoy the Laird of Ranfurlie, and my felf. With thefe I landit in Ua,
the 19 of this inftant, being afl'uredlie informit, that Donald Gorme of
Slait and the Laird of Hardancaple, whome I had fend befoir my felf,
yit agane to the houfe to mitigat the rebellis humouris, pacifie and move
theme without delay to obey the charge. I wes alfo defyred be word
and wreat, that the tenentis of the cuntrey wald concur with me, and
that the beft half of the Clandonald of that He, would affift me ; to the
whilk effect, fome of theme mett me be the way, and convoyit me to
374 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1614.
Hay, and remanit with me night and day, while the 21 day, at aucht
houris in the morning, who dcpairting then frome me, and Hardencaple
and Donald Gorme comeing to me, and gave vp commoning and vtter
refufell to delyuer the houfe any maner of way ; and immediatlie aftir
theme, the greitteft nomber of the name of Clandonald of that Yle,
both of the taikeris of that hous and fuche as medlit not with it befoir,
come togidder to the nomber of ane hundreth men in arines and mae,
and ley betwixt ws and our boittis, whilks they immediatlie brake, all to
the nomber of four boittis, and fpoyled the haill gudis thair out of by
our knawledge, affirming, that they come onlie to confer with me and
pak vp maters, be the aduyfe and interceffione of Donald Gorme and
the Laird of Hardencaple, — wlule the 22 day, about aucht of the clok,
when they refortit to theme, ane vther hundrethe and mae, pairtlie of the
cuntrey men, pairtlie of their owin accuftomit followaris, and fo having
ws cut of frome our boittis, they directed a threatning to ws, that they
wald put ws all to the edge of the fword without exceptione, or els it
behovit mts to deliuei fuche of our nomber to theme as they wald chufe :
Vnto the whilk for efchewing of bluid and greittare inconvenientis, it
behovit me to yeild, and fo to chufe out of our cumpany, my nevoy the
Laird of Ranfurlie, and my fone Mr Thomas, whome they haue taikin
with theme to the Catted of Dunavaig, whairby your Lordfhip may per-
ceave how traitouroullie I haue bein oft defaiffit be that peiliferous Clan,
how hard my caice is many wayes, and in what trouble my freindis ar
cum in, be my cair to ferue the Kingis Maieftie, both in keiping that
houfe and in prealing to recouer, vpoun litle or none of his Maiefties
charges, whiche I dout not, as his Hienes, fo your Lordfchip will fie
remecht, and that with all diligence, vtherwife 1 am vndone : nathcr can
1 depairt frome this Yle, whill I fie fome comfortabill way for the releif
of their captiues, as moir particularlie I haue giuin informatione to the
bearer. Befeiking your Lordfchip to grant thairto, whilk falbe nowayis
prciudiciall to his Maiefties or your Lordfchip's intentione in that parti-
culaxe, what euir it be ; his Maieftie recouered the Bifchope of Darayis '
1 This may have some reference to George Monntgomery, D.D., a native of Scotland,
ami Dean of Norwich, who was promoted to the See of Deny, in 1G0.">, and translated
to Meath in 1610.
1614.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 375
houfe and his wyf, whofe houfe and caftell wes taikin be Odochortie,
and recompenfed the fkaithe : his Hienes wairit expenfes vpoun the
recouerie of the houfe of Dunavaig, when it wes taikin from my Lord of
Scone, who had for the keiping theirof ane thoufand merks fterling a
yeer. I hoip your Lordfchip will not fie me and my freindis wrak,
whilk referring to your confcieabill difcretione, and befeiking God to
blis your Lordfchip, I reft,
Your Lordfchipis affe&ionat fervand,
An. Isles.
Frome Hey, the xxiij of September 1614.
Thay haue biggit ane new forthe in ane logh, which they haue manit
and vi6tulat. Angus Og their captane affirmis, in the heiring of my
manie witneffes, that he gat dire6tione frome the Erie of Argyle to keep
ftill the houfe, and that he fuld procure him theirfoir the haill landis of
Yley and houfe of Dunavage to himfelf.
To my very fpeciall goode Lordis my
Lord Binning, Secretare, and my
Lord Thefaurer of Scotland.1
1 Indorsed by Lord Binning, — " Copie of the letter ressaued from the Bischop of the
lies, the penult of September, at nyne at night."
Lord Binning, on the 1.5th September, in writing to his brother, says, " The Bischop
of the Isles hes protracted long tyme verie vnprofitablie, whairof he now persaues the
errour, and regrates it be ane letter which we ressaued from him yisternight, whairby he
promeises now to go fordward to Ila, bot verie vnseasonablie ; becaus the cuntrie people,
be whoes assistance he might have expected to have straited the rebels, ar now so busied
with thair harvest, that they will rather aduenture to disobey the proclamation, nor losse
the comes, whairvpon thay and thair families must leive whill this tyme twelmonth.
Alwayes, we haue granted him all the warrandis he requyres, and sail omit no thing,
that is in oure power to aduance his seruice, and encourage him thairin ; albeit I mixed
my last answer to him with sum bitternes, becaus his inexcusable delayes had greatlie
preiudged his Maiesties seruice." — (The Melros Papers, vol. i. p. 158.)
See in particular Nos. CVIII. and CIX. in the same collection of Original Letters,
respecting the proceedings at this time, " anent the affairs of Ha." — (lb. pp. 178 — 180.)
-'376 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G14.
CCXXX.— THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO JOHN MURRAY, OF
HIS MAEESTIES BEDCHAMBER.
Right Worsiutfull and weilbelouit Brother,
Eftcr my loving commendations, I have fein a teflimoniall
directed from the Synode of Abcrdein, bearing that one George Leflie,
of Aldcraig, hath crewellie and in infidious manner murdered Mr
George Lcith, brother-germane to the bearer hereof ; quhairof I haue
allured notice, bcfydes the ample teflimoniall whilk is ready to be pro-
duced of honeft and famous men, wha ar witneffes abone all exceptioun.
My entres in this mater is only for conference faik, and difcharge of a
goode duetie to God, and to the King his Maieftie my Soverane, to
whome I am oblifed to give right informatioun for prefervcing both of his
Maiefties confcience and honour, whilk is more tender to me nor my
lyfe. Therefore I will rcqueft yow, in maift earneft maner, that ye will
interceid with his Maieftie that this Gcntihnan may get acceiie to
deplore his wrongs to his owne Soverane Lord, whairin, as ye will do
God goode fervice, fo yow will oblife me to abyde in the aid maner your
owne affured. Happy ar they that imployis their credit fo long as they
haue it in fuch forme that they ferve both God and their Maifter in
one act. Thus I commit yow with all my hart to the bleffing and direc-
tioun of God. I reft,
Your owne aid loving freind, without change,
Sanctandrois.
St Androis Caftle,
25 September 1614.
To the right worfhipfull and my loving
Brother, Johne Murray, one of his
Maiefties bedchalmer.
1614.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 377
CCXXXL— MR PETER HEWAT, ONE OF THE MINISTERS OF EDIN-
BURGH, TO JOHN MURRAY.
Sir,
Vpoun fure knawledge of your gude affectioun to the further-
ance of juftice, as being alwayis very redy, according to your place, to
give his Majefty fik informatioun of the veritie as may procur in grit
evills tymous remeid, I haue tane boldnes to recommend to your fauour
the fute of this gentihnan, Mr William Leith, quho craueth iuftice for
the flauchter of his vmquhyl brother, Mr George Leith, be George
Leflie of Auldcraig, ane excommunicat Papift, as I am informed, and at
the horn. The particulars will be delated to yow by the gentilman him
felf, quho will bothe fchaw quhat he craweth, and the reffoun of his iurnay
thair. My Lord St Androwis hath alfo recommendit this bufines, and
the Miniftrie of that province hath teftifeit vnder thair handis that
quhilk is truth. I dout not, Sir, bot ye will haue that cair herin as the
fuite of the gentilman being lawfull may be, by your moyan, exped, and
that for the refpe6l yow cary baith to the glory of God and his Ma-
iefties honour. This cefing to truble yow with farder letter, I commend
yow to the Miffing of God, and reftis,
Yours alwayis to his powar,
M. P. Hewatt.
[27th September 16H.1]
To the ryght worfchipfull his very muche
refpecled frend, Jhon Murray, ane of
his Maiefties bed chalmer.
1 The date of tliis letter may be inferred from the preceding one, which relates to the
same affair. A Royal missive to the Marquess of Huntley for Leslie's apprehension,
will be given in a subsequent sheet.
3 b
378 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1614.
CCXXXII THE BISHOP OF ORKNEY TO LORD BINNING.
Right Honourabill my very speciall good Lord,
Your Lordfchips Lift letters, with the barke, fhip, and wholl
furniture, came to us vpon the 19 and 20 of September, before quhich
time, leaft we foidd have done nothing when we were fkant of powder
and billets, we enterpryzed to take the blockhous, and goe over the reft
of the mantell M'alls at divers places by fcalling; but tuo of our men
being killed, others wounded, and all terrified, the inftrument of timber,
quhich was made and caried vpon foure wheells to the walls, for defence
of the fouldiers and pioners from fhots and ftones, was, in the darknes of
the nixt night, fett on fire be the rebells, and the evill fucces of that
affay did fend us to our nixt and fecund witts.
After the fight, and confideration of your Lordfchip's laft letters, and
fufficient information made to us be thrie or foure who fled out of the
Caftell, that the taking of all the blockhouffes and walls about the great
tower of the Caftell wold be of litle importance, that the rebells had re-
folved to forfake them, and inclofe themfelfs within the irone yett of
the tower; that they had broken downe the timber bridge quhich lay for
paffing betuixt the vttermoft yett, the walls, and the laid irone yett of the
houfe, and that ther was no way now for afcending and entring at the
faid iron yett, quhich Hands about the mids of the wholl bight of the
houfe, bot be a long ladder ; as alio, that many hundreth fliotts of the tuo
pieces of ordinance were not able in long time to make any fufficient
quantity of the walls (quhich are fo thicke and folid that they have made
many of the bullets burft in fmall peeces) to fall.
We thought it our heft duety and fervice, for fparing of more blood, and
greater expenffes, yea, for preventing of all delays and difficulties quhich,
by appearance, might enfew, and lett the happy ending of this explana-
tion, once to try, if Robert and Patrik Halcro wold fubmittc and render
themfelfis vpon this condition, that they fould be kcepit alive, and
exhibit to your Lordfchip (in quhich ftandeth the greateft moment of the
1614.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 379
difcovery) vntill his Maiefties pleafure concerning them fould be
declaired, as your Lordfchip wreitt to us.
This being practized both by wreitt and faithfull meffingeris, they
were by the fting of their owne confidences, and by the certaine know-
ledge quhich they receaved by our Informationes of his Maiefties moll
royall intention, your Lordfchip's right honorabill care and provifione
for profecuting this actione with all neceflary furniture, and the valorous
refolutione of my Lord Lieutenent, his brother, friends, and followers
(who never fainted nor failed), moved to defire ane Minifter to be lent in
to them ; quhich being granted, and tuo or thrie fermons, with effecluall
prayers, made for inftructione and converfione of their minds and harts,
as I directed, be ane very zealous and honell man called Robert Stewart ;
at lalt, after thrie or foure days, Robert come out to the Kirk upon
aflurance, and the fame day efter he departit to the Caftell, came Patrik
Halcro, and conferred with the Erie and me, quhair the mater was fo
handled at that time, that Robert, efter ane vther conference with me
vpon Michaelmes even, was contented vpon the forfaid condition to
abandon the Caftell and come to the Erie with me, quhaire he rernaines
now. Lykas vpon Michaelmes day, Patrik Halcro craving and having
conference with me in the Kirk, did the fame day, about foure efter
noone, delyver the Caftle to his Maiefties Herald; who being accom-
panied with Walter Ritchie, to take ane note of all mouables within the
houfe, and five or fixe of the Erles fervants, did remaine and reft them
all this laft night.
This day, efter publick thankfgiuing and preaching, my Lord Lieu-
tenent and I, with a great number, enterit the Caftle vpon a new bridge,
vifited the houfe and movables, and in the moft folemne and joyfull
maner we could, with founding of trumpets, roaring off" all our ordinance
on land and fea, we fet vp his Maiefties colours vpon the faftiges of the
houfe, and, if your Lordfhip will believe me, we carruffed efter the Ork-
nay fafliion for his Maiefties health and profperity, quhich God grant may
indure and increas many yeirs amongft us. Nor were we fo befotted with
any furfitt, bot we had your Lordfhip's, my Lord Thefaurer, and the
remanent Right honorabill our Lords, in dew remembrance and regaird,
and amongft all, my very honorabill good Lord, my Lord Cbancellar.
380 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1614.
Now, from thefc mirriments, quhich foinc furplus of humour lies happily
dieted to me, I doe molt hartly render thanks to your Lordfhip for the
favour notified to me he the Commiffare, in his laft letter. My affectione
and fervice falhe honell and conftant, and more I have not, hot poore
words vnworthy.
If his Maieftie falhe moved to convert ane Bifehope in ane beggar, I fall
never afcryve it to any averfenes of his Royall hart, hot to the perverfnes
of thofe who worfhips his purpure, and loves not himfelfe, and if I fould
never have any henefite or fetling from his Maieftie, yet the hentnes of
my affectione fall ever exceid the weaknes of my power to ferve his
Maieftie with all my poore indevours. I have wreatten to my Lord
Theafurer, and thirc Articles inclofed * are fent to your tuo Lordfhips
only, to be advifed, concluded, and directed, as fall feime good to your
wifdomes. So, praying God to have your Lordfhip ever in his favour,
and bliffe yow with all gud bliffings here and herefter, I reft.2
Yeards in Kirkwall, 29 September 1614.
CCXXXm.— THE BISHOP OF ORKNEY TO SIR GIDEON MURRAY,
TREASURER-DEPUTE.
RlCHT HONNORABILL MY VERREY SPECIALL GUD LORD,
Concerning our procedingis heir, and the happie end of thir
troubles, I knaw I fall not neid to write, feing your Lordfhip is to know
the fame by that which I hauc writtin fummerlie to my Lord Secre-
tarie.
Ancnt the vther biffines whiche it pleafed your Lordfhip commit, in
1 These Articles chiefly relate to the demolition of Kirkwall Castle, and are printed
from the Melros Papers, vol. i. p. 185, No. IOC, in the volume of State Papers, 1G14,
which is indorsed by Lord Pinning : — " Copie of the Articles sent be the Erie of Caith-
ness to the Secretar, to be resolued be the Counsall. Ressaued 10 Oct."
3 In one of the contemporary transcripts, there is added, " This was the Bishop of
Orknay his letter sent to the Secretaire." The other is indorsed by Lord Binning, —
" Copie of the Bischop of Orknayes letter sent to the Secretary. Ressaued 10 October."
1614.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 381
your laft letter to my credit, I haue bene cairfull of thame all. The
bark is loffed, and reddie, quhen the wynd feruis, to cum Sowtb. The
fouldiers and thair officers ar payed to the awcht of October, quhilk in
our compt completis the fecund moneth. The fame ordour is tane with
the eannonaris and thair attendantis, of quhome I moft teftifie to your
Honnour that thai haue done gud feruice, and worthie commendatioun.
Thair wes fum littill jarris quhilkis I reconciled, and thai procedit rather
from the pouer of our Scapa aill then from any gall. James Gardner lies
gevin proofe of ane fkilfull artifman. The chyrurgian, Robert Elphing-
ftoun, the trumpetour, and all, according to your Lordihip's warrant, ar
fatiffyit. The Erill and I ar purpofed to brek the fouldiours, and all
officers, the morne, or fa fone as we may fattill, a littill efter the reffa-
ving of the Caftell : And we think beft, gif God will fend wyndes, to
fende thame Sowthe vpoun one of the fchippis and bark, that thai be
not moir chargeable to his Maieftie ; yitt fo that I think your Lordfhip
will allow to ws to give thame fo muche as may mak owt the jurney.
Walter Richie will write concerning the victuall, breid, and beir, and
Robert Elphinftoun concerning the reft committit to his cuftodie, as I
haue defirit thame. So your Lordfhip fall haue trew knawlege and juft
accompt, God willing, of all at meting.
I haue drawin vp fum Articlis, and fchewed the fame to my Lord
Lieutenant, whiche ar inclofed,1 to be confident be your Lordfhip and
my Lord Secretarie, or fo many vtheris as your Lordlhip pleafis, for the
goode of this poore cuntree, quhairof we expect your Lordfhip's anfueris
and particular determinatiounis, to be followed. We intend this day to
put the canons to the fchippis, with powder, bullattis, and all uther
thingis whiche fall be fent bak. The nixt week we fall be bufie in trying
and punifching the rebellis, except fo many as may beft ferue for dis-
covering the plotting of this rebellion ; amongis quhome your Lordfhip
fall reffaue vpoun the fchip, Andro Martine, Secretar to all, and Johne
Burne, gif he may for his difeis be tranfported ; with quhome your Lord-
fhip fall reflaue thair Depofitionis2 and furder advertifement fo fone as the
1 See note I, on the preceding page.
8 In Pitcairn's Criminal Trials, vol. iii. p. 272 to 307, along with the Trial of Kobert
Stewart, and five of his accomplices, at Edinburgh, for treasonably resisting the King's
382 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1614.
(chip may be maid reddie. The Erill lies lend the pinage to Thurfo in
Caithnes to traniport hither to the fchip ane pece of ordinance which
went owt of the Caftell of Edinburgh to the Lewes, and to deliuer the
fame agane to his Maieftie. His Lordfhip lies kepit heir for the feruice
at leift ane hundreth Caithnefs men all the tyme, and has fparit no thing
that might help to further it. I will not write his dew praifes, leift I
fuld feme to flatter or faine. This onlie I muft fay, that in all his car-
riage he lies fchewed him felf nobill, libcrall, modeft, valerous, and
zelous of his Maiellies honour and feruice. Gif Sir James or gud Robert
Menteyth1 had cum hither about this bufines, the rebellis do confefs
that the Counfell fould haue done thaine greit plefour. Referring the
reft of our proceedingis to my nixt letters, quhilkis fall cum with the
fchip, God willing, I pray God to blifs, gyde, and preferue your Lord-
lhip, and fo remanis,
Your Lordfliip's in all dewitie aflured to fcrue yow,
Ja. B. of Orcads.
Yairdis in Kirkwall, 1. October 1G1-4.
If my Signatouris be not paffed and returned, as thai war not
quhen your Lordfhip wrait laft, then I muft think my felf evill vfed ;
and I truft your Lordfhip will latt me know how and be quhome the
impediment is maid, that I may refolue vpoun fum vther courfe for my
felf.
Your Lordfhip wes remembrit hartlie yifterday, vpoun the top of the
Caftell, with ane drawcht or twa of wyne, tent, and fek.s
Lieutenant and his forces, thero is added an Appendix of Original Documents, including
letters of the Earl of Caithnes, the Bishop of Orkney, and others, and the several Depo-
sitions here mentioned by Bishop Law. The persons alluded to were executed at the
Cross of Edinburgh, on the 6th January 1615.
1 Sir .lames Stewart of Killeith, and Robert Monteith of Egilschaw.
3 This letter is given from a transcript, indorsed at the time, — " Copie of the Bisehop
of Orknayis letter to the Thesaurer Depute, etc."
1614.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 383
CCXXXIV.— THE ARCHBISHOP OF GLASGOW AND LORD BINNING TO
KING JAMES.
Most Sacred and Gratiouse Sotjeraigne,
The expectations we had to haif wrocht fum agrement betwen
the Lord of Regifter and Sir Jhon Skein, movit ws to differ the Report of
our travellis in that bufines vnto this tym.1 According as your Maieftie
1 The original is in Spottiswood's hand. In a letter without date, but probably writ-
ten in April 1613, Sir Thomas Hamilton, now Lord Binning, says to John Murray : —
" This night I have receaued your letter from Maister Johne Skene, which I sail obey,
reseruing my dewtie to his Brother, to whom you know I am beholden for his gudewill in
the office of Clerk of Register, which dois obleis me in all dewtifull thankfidnes ; and if
Maister Johne had followed my freindlie counsall, he wald not haue bene intangled in
this vnproffitable busines ; bot his owne wilfulnes, and too much following the wilfull
aduyse and opinion of some contentious persones, lies bred truble and vexatioun to him-
self and his brother, who will do him reason and fauour, so far as may be without his
own extreme preiudice. Alwayes I haue bene, so I will eontinew to be, ane instrument
of peace amangis thame, and whatsoevir I do sail be knowne to be for your respect,
which is the onlie cause that moues me to mell in Maister Johne's maters, since I fand
him so obstinat.
" I sail informe my Lord of Register of your friendlie counsall, who might be per-
suaded to vse courtesie according to his own tractable nature, if Mr Johne's peremptour
vsage of him had not alienated his mynd from him." — (The Melros Papers, vol. i. p. 105.)
Under the year 1612, Spottiswood, in noticing the changes in some of the Officers of
State, and the appointment of Sir Thomas Hamilton, Lord Advocate, to be Clerk Regis-
ter, says, " Sir John Skeen had enjoyed the place a good many years, and being grown
in age and infirm, thinking to get his son provided to his office, he sent him to Court
with a dimission of the place, but with a charge not to use it, unless he found the King
willing to admit him ; yet he, abused by some politick wits, made a resignation of the
office," &c, which " was presently disponed to the Advocate : which grieved the Father
beyond measure, ... to be circumvented in this sort by the simplicity or folly of his
Son. . . . The King being informed of the abuse by the old man's complaint, was
very careful to satisfie him, and to have the Son reconciled to his Father ; which, after
some travel, was brought to pass : yet so exceeding loas the old man's discontent, as within
a few days he deceased." — (History, p. 517.)
This statement does not say much for the Archbishop's minute accuracy as an Histo-
rian, considering the special share which he himself had in reconciling the parties : (see
his own letter, No. CXCVII.) At the date of the above Report, upwards of eighteen
384 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1614.
was plefit to direct ws, that we fuld travel to haif Maifter Alexander
Sken refavit in the office of hornings, or then caufe fura fatiffaetioun be
gefin him be the Clerk of Regifter ; we vrgit the firft, and hafing
refavit his anfwer twiching the office, that he culd not difpone it for
dyverfe reafons, we cam to the feeond, anent fatiffaetioun. The Clerk
of Regifter offerit to fubmit himfelf to ws two, in that point ; only
excufit, that he culd not fubmit with Mir Alexander Sken, as ane with
qhom he had no thing to do, but with his father or brother, that had
the office before, he wes willing. We bothe thocht that none of tham
fold differr vpon that point to agre, for if he gaif fatiffaetioun, it wes al
one to him qho fuld refaif it, if he fuld be difchargit be them al. But
he anfwerit, that he had fignefeit his mynd to your Maieftie in thofe
tennis, qhiche he culd not alter without your Maiefties commande-
ment. On the other fyd, we fand them no way inclynit to refaif fatif-
faclioun, becaufe the burthen lay vpon Maiiter Alexander, be thair
privat barganis amongeft tham felfis, to mak payment to his father out
of the office, yeirly, of the fowm of ane thowfand merkis Scottis, qhiche
thai knew the fatiffaetioun that wold be modefeit fuld never extend to.
And fo, finding thefe difficulties, we haif left the bulines and tham to
do as thai may befl. Sir, this is the true account of our proceedings
in that, mater, qhairin, as in al things, we fal ever be careful at our pof-
libilities to fenre as your Maieftie fal pleife to command ws. Praying
Almychtie God to bliffe your Maieftie with al happines, and many yeirs.
we humbly kiffe your Maieities hands.
Your Maiefties moll humble and obedient fervants,
Glasgow.
Binning.
Edinburgh, laft of September 1614.
To his moft Sacred Maieftie.
montha had elapsed to l.riner about an amicable arrangement that might please Sir John
Skene, unci secure an office for two of his younger son* : and so far from having died cf
vexation within </ ft »• dayt, Sir John survived to the 17th March 1G17. — (Confirmed
Testaments, Edinburgh, 8 July 1617.)
1614.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 385
CCXXXV.— THE ARCHBISHOP OF GLASGOW TO KING JAMES.
Most Sacred and Gkaciouse Soueraigne,
It lies plefit God to caft in my handis a Jefuit, that callis him-
felf Ogilvy. He cam to this citie, and laid fome maiTis, at qhiche we
haif tryit eight of our burgeffis to ben prefent. He wes bufie in per-
verting fum otheris that went too far with him, for fum of tham preafit
to refift my fervantis in his apprehenfioun : himfelf wil anfwer nothing
that fervis for difcovering his traffique in the cuntrey, that appeiris to be
great. My Lord Kilfyth wes heir, be good happe, at his exaniinatioun,
and the reft of his partakeris, and lies helpit muche to thair confef-
liounis. The copie of them I haif fent to the Secretary, qho, I truft, fal
fend it vp in the pacquet. In his bulget we haif found his veftmentis,
and other furniture for the maffe, with fome bookis and reliques of S.
Ignatius, S. Margaret, S. Kathrin, and other thair Saintis ; alfo fome
writtis, amongeft qhiche the principal is a Catalogue of thingis left be
Father Anderibn,1 a Jefuit in Scotland, qho femis to be furth of the
countrey. Thairby your Maieftie wil perfaif the furniture of bookis and
veftmentis thai haif in ftore againft the day they looke for, and fum of
thair freindfchip, with qhom the famin is refervit. Sir, I wil not truble
your Maieftie with the cireumftanees of his apprehenfioun, and namis of
his partakeris heir, qhairanent I haif written to your Hienes fervant, Jhon
Murray, more particularlie ; only I wil craif your Maiefties pardon to
delyuer my advyfe for the punifchment of thir tranfgreflbris, the tryal of
the Jefuite, and finding out fuche thingis as ar contenit in the Catalogue.
Becaufe exemplary punifchment is neceffare in this cace, and be the
lawis, thair lyvis, landis, and qhole eftait is in your Maiefties handis,
and the conditioun of the perfonis offending is not equal, your Maieftie
1 Mr Patrieke Anderson of the Society of Jesus, afterwards returned to Scotland, and
" out of divers conferences, discourses, and disputes," during his imprisonment at Edin-
burgh, in the years 1620 and 1621, he published a work entitled " The Ground of the
Catholike and Roman Religion in the Word of God," printed " Permissu Superiorum,
Anno M.DC.XXHI." 4to.
3c
386 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1614.
wold be plcfit to referre the dcterminatioun thairof to my Lord The-
i'aurar, my Lord Kilfyth, my Lord Advocat, and myfelf, as hafing heir
the jurifdictioun vnder your Maieftie.
Commiffioun wold lie gifin for this effect, and the Counfal commandit
to exped one to the forenamed perfonis, for putting the tranfgrefforis to
tryal, and convicting tham according to the law.
Being tryit, guiltie, and put in your Maiefties wil, they wold be fynit
according to thair qualitie and eftait ; only Robert Higgate, that lies
ben the feducer of the reft, wold be banifched your Maiefties kingdomes
during your Hienes plefuro.
The fyn your Maieftie wilbe gracioufly plefit to command the The-
faurar to devyd with me, bothe in refpect thai ar al burgeffis of this
citie, and by the priviledg your Maiefties noble predeceffbris haif
grantit to this fea, the efchetis and forfaltoris of al malefactoris fal to
the Bifchop, and that I may haif qhairwith to recompenfe the difcoverer,
and otheris that haif fervit in the bufines, to qhom I haif particularly
obliged myfelf.
Thair tryal wold be at Glafgow, and the Commiffioners commandit, be
your Maiefties letter, to conven for that effect at the firft convenient tym
thai can chufe.
For the Jefuit, your Maieftie may be plefit to command him to be
brocht to Edinburgh, and examined be fuche of the Counfel as your
Maieftie fal pleis nominat. Of that number, the Secretary, Thefaurar,
my Lord Kilfyth, my Lord Advocat, and myfelf, becaufe I haif the
writtis, wold feim fitteft.
They wold be commandit to vfe this examinatioun with great fecrecy,
and if he wil not anfwer nor confeffe ingcnuoully, to gif him the buttis,
or other torture.
For getting the bookis and veflmentis contenit in the Catalogue, it
wil be the fafeft mean to charge the keperis of the famin, and qhair the
ladyis ar named, to charge thair huibandis, and commit tham til the
fain be delyverit. But for this, and the better compaffing of it, the
credit wold be referrit to my Lord Secretary to move and follow it in
Counlal, by our advyfc, and qben we fe it to be tym.
Sire, thefe thingis I humbly prei'cnt to your Maieftie, to be correctit
1614.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 387
at your Hienes gud plefure. The knowledge I haif of our ftate heir,
and the confideratioun of every thing that may beft ferve to the
repreffing of this great evil, and affuring that obedience qhiche is due
to God and your Maieftie, makis me bold to delyver my opinioun
in this forte.
I befeche Almyghtie God to preferve your Maieftie, to difappoint the
praclifis of the wickit, and increafe your Hienes bleffingis, in defpyt of al
Godis and your enemyis.
Your Maieftes moil humble and obedient fervitour,
Glasgow.1
Glafgow, the 5 of October 1614.
To his moft Sacred Maieftie.
CCXXXVI.— EXAMINATIONS RELATIVE TO FATHER OGILBY THE
JESUIT, APPREHENDED AT GLASGOW IN 1614.
Apud Glasgow, the fyft day of Oclober 1614 : Thir perfounis
wndirwryttin wer examinat, in prefens of my Lordis of
Glafgow and Argyle, my Lord Flemyng, my Lord Kil-
fythe, my Lord Boyd, the Laird of Mynto, Sir George
Elphingftoune, James Hamiltoun, Proueft, James Bell,
James Braidwood, Colein Campbell, Baillies.
PiOBEBT Heygait, being inquyrit how lang he hes bene acquent
with this Preift, anfwerit, That he neuer faw him nor fpak with him bot
within thir twa monethis fyne or thairby ; and that he come doun to him
to his awin buithe, and gat fum paper fra him, and thairefter yeid with
him to Mr William Stewartis hous, to get ane chopein of wyne, quha
callit him felf ane Hors-cowper, and wes going to Kyntyre to by hors ;
1 Indorsed, — " Spotswood B. of Glaseow shewes the taking of Father Ogilby, and de-
syres ane warrant for his tryell and executione. 5 Octob. 1614."
388 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1614.
and imployit him to buy anc hors : And thairefter callit him felf ane
Preift ; bot of liis name he is ignorant, and neuer fpcirit for it. And
being inquyrit, git' he enterit withe him in religioun? fo eonfeft ; and that
lie brocht him to Mareonn Walkeris lions, and law his bnikis, and be-
leivit that lie fpak to him; and that he contentit him of the facrament
of the body of Chryft ; and that he is ane Catholik. And being inquyrit,
gif lie defyrit him to gewe him ane mcfs? eonfeft, he defyrit the famyn,
ami hard the lainvn at the laid tyme, and that thair with him Mareoun
Walker, William Menteithe, Mathow Adam, Thomas Forret, James
Forret. And being fpeirit, gif this preift wes gone to Sir James Cle-
iandis hous or not ? hard William Menteithe fay, that he wes gone thair.
And being inquyrit, gif the Lady Maxwell wes at ony mefs heir within
this fchort fpace, or at ony mefs? denyit that he euer faw hir ; bot he
knawis that this Preift fpak with hir the laft tyme fcho wes heir, and
that the faid Preift faid to him that he wes ane of the Soeietie of Jefus.
And being inquyrit, how that the freindfehip and acquentance of the
laid Preifi wes maid with James Stewart? eonfeft, that he wes the
bringer of thame togiddir to confer, and that the faid James ftands ftill
in his former religioun ; and that the faid James wes defyrus to fpeik
with the laid Preift, and he wes ernift to haif the faid James of his reli-
gioun, bot he wald not give his name tbairto. And alio eonfeft, that
thair wes ane wther mefs faid in the laid Mareoun Walkeris hous, be the
laid Preift, within twa dayis thairefter. and that thair wes prefent the
laid William Menteithe. Mareoun Walker, Dauid Maxwell, brother to
Newwark ; and that thair wes ane wther Preift in this toun, quha ltayit
ane day heir and went eift throw, and knew not his name, bot he callit
himfelf Ogilbie. And being inquyrit, gif thair wes ane wther mefs laid he
this Preift in his awin hous or noeht? eonfeft, that thair wes ane laid
thair, and that he wes clerk to the mail! of thir mellis him felf, and that
his wyf knew not thairof, hot fufpectit the famyn: And at that tyme
quhen he timid haue gone to haue bocht the hors, he raid to Sir James
Clelandis hous: And this he deelarit be his great ayth. Sic subscribitur,
tvOBEBT EeIGAIT.
Anhkd Stmmeb, deelarit that he drank with this Preift. in James
1614.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 389
Stewartis companie, quha intyfit him to his religioun, hot he wald not
grant to him ; and that thai reffonit wpone religioun togidder. Sic sub-
scribitur, Andro Symmer.
The Preist being inquyrit, quhat his name wes ? He nameit him fell"
Johnne Ogllbie, fone to Walter Ogilbie of Drum ; and that he hes bein
out of this cuntraye thir twentie twa yeiris ; and that he ftudiet in the
colledgis of Olmis and Graitis, and remanit in Olmis twa yeir, and in
Gratis fyev yeir; and that he hes reffauit the ordour of Preifthuid in
Paris ; and come hame in Scotland befoir now, and remanit fex oidkis, or
thairby, and that be now come hame about May laft, or thairby ; and con-
feft, that the budget producit on the buird befoir him wes his awin, and
that he wes ane of the ordinar Jefueittis. And being aflat, quhidder the
Popis jurifdictioun extendit ouir the Kingis dominiounis in fpreitwall
matteris ? affirmit conftanthe the famyn, and wald dye for it. Sic sub-
scribitur, Johannes Ogilbeus, Societatis Jesu.
James Forret confeffis, be his great ayth, that he knew not this Preift
quhill the tyme that the Erie of Eglintoun wes heir, and wes fend for be
him be [blank in the MS.~\, fervitrix to Mareoun Walker, quha delt with
him to come and heir the mefs ; and for that effecl appointit wther
morne ; at quhat tyme he keipit, and the mefs wes faid be the faid
Preift, being prefent Robert Heygait, Mathow Adam, William Menteithe,
Mareoun Walker, Thomas Forret, his brother ; and declarit, that he wes
neuir at ony mefs befoir or efter, and that thair wes ane wther man, quha
callit him felf Dawnie, feducit him to that religioun, quhairinto he than
in ane manir agreit ; and fupponis that the laid Dawnie had direclit this
Preift to him to draw him forder on, quha perfwadit to leive the Kirk,
quhilk he did fen fyne ; quhairof he cravit God forgeivnes, and confeffit,
that befoir he reffauit the mefs that morning he maid a confeffioun to
the faid Preift, quha gaue him ane abfolutioun, and tuik the facrament.
Sic subscribitur, J. Forret.
J Aires Stewart, being inquyrit quhen he knew this Preift ? be his great
avth declarit, that he knew him twentie dayis fyne, or thairby ; and that
390 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1614.
Robert Qeygait maid his acquentance with the faid Preift; and efterthe
drinking of ane choppine of wyne, he wont with the faid Preift to the
vaird of Mareoun Walker, quhair he conferrit with him annent the reli-
gioun, and wald na wavis yoild to him, hot lie had ane guid exfpectatioun
of him, and maid him acquent that he had ane mefs to fay ; hot he wald
not go to it : As to his name, he knawis not the fam. Sic subscribitur,
J. Stewart.
William Menteithe, heing inquyrit gif he knew this Preift or not?
anfwerit, that he (aw him in this toun ane monethe fyne, or thairby, and
that he wes in his comj)anie in the lions of Mareoun Walkeris, and tliair
hard this Preift fay ae mefs, and denyit anie mae. And thairefter being
confrontit with Robert Iicygait, confeft than he hard thrie meffis, twa
thairof in Mareoun Walkeris, and ane wther in Robert Heygaittis, and
that he tuik the facrament : And being inquyrit, quhair he gat his begin-
ning of that religioun ( be anfwerit, that he firft wes inftruclit thairin,
heing fervand to the Laird Kers younger, be the Lady Angus and
Archibald Douglas, in the place of Moungtoun [Monkton], befyde Air,
ten or twelf yciris fyne, or thairby ; and declarit, that Thomas Forret
tauld him of this Preift, and that Robert Heygait informit him that the
laid Thomas wes of that religioun: As als declarit, that he faw Johne
Wallace uf Corfflat at the mefs, in Robert Heygaitis hous, faid be the
foirfaid Preift. Sic subscribitur, William Menteithe, with my hand.
Thomas Forret, heing inquyrit quhair he had firft acquentance with
this Preifl '. declarit, he faw him firft in Mareoun "Walkeris hous, being
fetchit in to him be Robert Eeygat, and efter lvtill conference with
him anent the Religioun, he defyrit him to cum to mefs, quhilk be did ;
and befoir the reflauing thairof, he maid his confefiioun and reffauit
abfolutioun, and thairefter tuik the facrament ; and that thair wes pre-
lent at the laid mefs Mr Johne Mayno, Mareoun Walker, Mathow
\-lani. Robert llevgait, James Forret, William Menteithe; and wes at
na mefs fendl'vne. icing be the ficht thairof he defpylit that Religioun ;
and that tin remanent lykwayis reffauit the facrament. Sic subscribitur,
Thomas I\.
1614.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 391
Mathow Adam, being inquyrit, how lang he had embracit the Popifch
religioun ? declarit, that about fyve yeiris fyne, or thairby, he had his
entrie thairto in Danfkin, and hes fence reffauit the communioun ; and
that he had acquentance with this Preift four oukis fyne, or thairby, be
the moyen of Robert Heygait ; and ficlyk, in fomer laft, wes acquent
with ane Dawnie, ane preift, in Mareoun Walkeris hous, and that he
wes at thrie meffis that this Preift faid, ane in Robert Heygaitis, and
fcwa in Mareoun "Walkeris hous. And being afkit, quhat his profeffioun is
prefentlie ? anfwerit, that he wes of the religioun be the lawis of this
realme. Sic subscribitur, Mathow Adam.
MR Johnne Mayne, being inquyrit, gif he knew this Preift or not ?
declarit, be his ayth, he knew him in Mareoun Walkeris hous, to the
quhilk he wes brocht be Robert Heygait, quhair he eonfeflit him felf to
the Preift, reffauit ane abfolutioun befoir he hard the mefs, and reffauit
the facrament ; and that thair wes prefent Mareoun Walker, James
Forret, Thomas Forret, Robert Heygait, Mathow Adam, William Men-
teithe ; and that as yit he awowis that religioun, and profeffis the famyn,
quhill he be better refoluit. Sic subscribitur, MB J. Mayne.
Johnne Wallace of Corsflat, being inquyrit, gif he wes at a mels faid
be this Preift or not in Robert Heygaitis hous ? confeffit, that he wes
prefent thairat, and brocht thairto the faid Robert Heygait. Sic sub-
scribitur, Johnne Wallace.
This is the true copie of thair Confessiounis.1
Glasgow.
The copie of the Examined's Confeffioun.
1 This line, with the title underneath, and his own signature, is added by Spottiswood.
The paper is indorsed by Lord Binning, — " Depositions of the Jesuite and Papists
examined at Glasgo. 5 Oct. 1614."
392 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1614.
CCXXXVII.— THE BISHOP OF ORKNEY TO LORD BINNING.
Right Honourable my vekkie Good Lord,
It was natlier of eairelefnes, negligence, nor obliuioune, that my
Lord and I did not wryte fo frequentlie ; bot our inftant cair and dili-
gence to bring tlie feruice to fum happie end, did hauld ws from wryt-
ing, till we did fie the expeclit fruit of labours, which we knew wauld not
be vnpleafing to his Maieftie and your Honouris. I hoip ray letters
with the lafi poift, James Gairdner and Robert Winrame, relatiue to
the former, fall prevent thir, and geiue fatiffa&ioune to your Lordfhip,
in all anent the ending of this aftioune, quhairin thair is nothing pro-
meiit nor done, quhilk is not agreeable to his Maiefties pleafour and
your Lordfliip's defyre. Robert1 and Patrik Halcro ar tranfportit this
day to be keipit in Caftell Sinclar, and from thence to be exhibit to
your Lordfhip. The reft ar keipit prifibners in the Caftle; and my
Lord and I (efter that Roberte and Patrik Halcro be difpatchit with
yung May,2 and ane fufficient number of hable men to gaird thame) ar
prefentlic going to examine euirie one ; and the nixt day, God willing,
thay fall fuffer judgment and condigne puneifment. The winds, hailes,
(haws, raines, ar l'o extraordinarie in thir places, that all had bene
done and accomplifled befoir this day, giue it had bene poffible. Andro
Martina, quho was fent with Robert Winrahame, would be well exami-
ned be your Lordfhip. I hoipe to cum by the Band itfelf,3 quhairof I
fent the coppie with his Depofitiounes. Thair is one Margaret Buchane,
fpous to Simeone Stewart, and now adulteres to Patrik Halcro, quho
lies revealit and confcffit to me more than any other. If your Lordfhip
think, that hir depofitiounes or prefence falbe neceflar, direct me, and
it fall be obeyit ; for I purpofe to put hir oute of this cuntrie, for hir
adulterie. Anent the Articles fent in my laft letters to your Lordfhip.
I befeik your Lordlhip, advyfe and adverteis. And fince your Lordfhip
hes gevin me affurance of the paffing of my rightes (for the quhilks I
1 That is, Robert Stewart. 2 William Sinclair younger, of May.
:* A copy of this singular document i^ given in Piteairn's Crim. Trials, vol. ill. p. 293.
1614.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIES. 393
fall euir be cairfull to expres my tkankfulnes in all dewtie and feruice),
I fall be difpofed at your Lordfhip's pleafour, aitber to come Soutb
witb tbe Erie, or ftay heir a litle efter, for my awin buffines, or any
feruice fall be committit or commandit to me. As for other thinors,
your Lordfhip will knawe thame be my letters writtin to my Lord
Thefaurar. So praying God euir to favour, profper, and preferue your
Lordlhip, I reft,
Your Lordfhip's awin allured and
obliged in all dewtie,
Ja. B. of Okcads.1
Kirkwall, 6 October 1614.
CCXXXVIIL— THE BISHOP OF THE ISLES TO JOHN MURRAY.
RrCHT W1RSCHEPFULL AND LOWING CofSrNG,
As being gritumlie grewit, I wryt to yow befoir, befeiking yow
to deall with his Maieftie for his Heichnes wyfe dereclione to be fend
to the Counfall, what manir my freindis fchall be relewit ; fo now cran-
ing to Edinbrugh, to wirk fumwhat farder in that erand, I muft alfo
intreat yow yit to bauld hand to that wark, and if my ferwand hes
nocht as yit receawit his difpatche, that ye wald furthir him therto.
All the trubill that is done to me and my freindis is becaufe of Arche-
bauld Cambellis diligence to procur the Iyll of Iyla to the Lard of
Cadell,2 of the wiche thaj ar certanle informit ; the wiche, if it tak effect,
will breid grit trubill in the Iylles far moir nor all the fyn and dewitie
of the Iyles of Scotland will afford thir many yeris, and in the mean
tym be the wrak of my freindis ; nather can I, or any man who knowes
the eftait of that cuntre, think it ather good or profitabill to his Maiefte
1 Indorsed by Lord Binning, — " Coppie of the Bischop of Orknays letter to me.
Reas. 15 Oct. 1614."
2 Sir John Campbell of Calder, or Caddell, knight. — (Acta Pari. Scot. vol. iv. p. 675.)
3d
394 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1614.
or this cuntro to mak that nam gritter in the Iyles nor thaj ar allrcadic,
nor yit to rut out one peftifcrous Clan and plant in one lytill bettir,
Icing his Maieftie hes good occafione now, with lytill expcnffis, to mak a
new plantatioun of honeft men in that Iyland, anfwerabill to that of
Vlftir in Iyrland, lying wpon the nixt fchoir, with the wiche Iyla haith
dayle commcrfe. The way how this mycht be done is athir be a lytill
police, of the wiche I hawe gewin information to my Lord Seeretar
and Thcfaurer Deput. Bot becaus it is to difficill to belewe thaLs pipill,
I wold hawe a fycht of forces, wiche wold effray tham, and mowe tham
to keip conditione ; and thir forces wold be partle colleclit out of findrie
townes wpone the weft coft of Scotland, and partle of fum ould fogeouris
out of Iyrland, and it war ten out of euery one of the four garifones led
by Sir Richard Handfard, Capitane Stewart, Capitane Crawfurd, and
Captane Wachane, togiddir with a cannone, with powdir and billet, out of
Darre, and thais to be fend owir wndir conduct of Sir Rodolph Bing-
lay, with a derectione frome his Maiefte to my Lord Depute to this
effect ; the wiche being fend heir, I wold carie tham and heft tham to
Iyla out of Darrie, to meit fo many as fould be dere6t out of Scotland
to meit tham, for I think 200 wold ferwe the twrne ; or if it wold pleafe
his Maiefte to derecl; one of his fchippes to the weft coft of Scotland to
this ferwice, it wold heftele tak effect, if fcho haid any good munitione in
hir, and fum wyfe fogeouris, of the wiche the fycht onle wold effrey the
rebellis, at the left fo far as to mowe tham to keip conditione. The con-
ditione to be maid to tham fchall mak to tham no furans of any part of
his Maiefteis fauour, for ye know, albeit I muft alwayes deall for the
relewc out of thais vilanes handis of my narreft freindis, yit I am no-
wayes oblcift to do tham grit good, who has kyithit tham felf to hawe
nather feir of God, cair of thair dew obediens to thair Souerane King,
nor yit fayth or trewth to thair nychtbour. Bot referring all to his
Maiefteis wyfe and royal 1 rel'olutione, I onlie requeft yow to remembir
bis lleichncs of this my fwlifche adwvl'c, wiche I be vofull experiens hes
lernit, according to the natur of the pepill I hawe ado with, to be the
Ik ti in my jugement. I hawe alio to remembir yow, that fum of Bruch-
tones pipill, viz. his wyf, good fones, and brethcr, accufe me for delyvere
of that uiatir out of niyn handis, and the evidentis. I wold be glad to
1614.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 395
receiwe your warrand theirfoir, the which, albeit it was prorneift to me
by the Lard of Lochinvar vndir his hand, I hawe nocht receawit the
fauiin as yit. Thair is alio a Scotifch knawe whom (wpon wrang infor-
matione) I admitted to the miniftere in Iyrland ; who, wpon inftigatione
of Sir Henrie Fulleit and Capitan Gowe, hes cumin to Court, and wpon
fynifterous informatioun, hes procurit a grit brek of all the ordour, I
eftablifchit in my chocefe ther. Thay call the man Mr Robert Bennat.
He dependis wpon my Lord Roxbrugh ; bot he is weill knowin to the
Lard [of] Lochinvar, of quhom yow fchall receawe fardir aduertifment
with Sir John Stewartt, fchortle to cum to Court. And fo I befeik the
Eternall God to blifs yow and all youris, for by his graice I fchall,
dwring lyve, reft
Your awin to be commandit in Chrift Jefus,
An. Isles.
Edinbrughe, the xi of October 1614.
I hawe writtin to his Maiefte that I hawe fend my informatione and
adwyfe how to follow furth this ferwece to yow, to be impartit to his
Heichnes.
To the rycht virfchepfull his ware lowing
Coufing and experimentit good freind,
Jhone Murray of the bedchalmer — This.
CCXXXIX.— THE BISHOP OF GALLOWAY TO JOHN MUKRAY OF
LOCHMABEN.
Honorable Sir,
I am informed that my Lord Garlies hes taken iourney to Court,
to mak feure fute to his Maieftie concerning the Priorie of Quhithorne.
If it, be fo, I muft entreat yow to ftand my freind. The truth is, that
396 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1614.
ony queftion bctwcno my Lord Garlies and mc ftandis alreadie fubmit-
ted be vs botli to the Archbifhop of Glafgo and my Lord Blantyre.
And I am furc his Maieftie will doe no thing in preiudice of my presen-
tation. I craue no more, if freindis may not agrie vs, that I may haue
the benefit of the law. I thoght good to aduertife yow heirof, leail
otherway, for want of information, I fuld ony way be hurt. Other
thinges I haue fhortlie to wryt, as I fpak to your felf in Falkland.
Perfuaded of your conftant favour towardis me, in my right, I reft,
Your owne to be commanded, in the Lord,
W. B. of Galloway.
Perth, Oelober 15, 1614.
To the right honorable John Murray of
Loumaben, one of his Maiefties bed-
chalmer.
CCXL.— THE BISHOP OF THE ISLES TO JOHN MUEEAY OF HIS
MALESTLES BEDCHAMBER.
W OBSHTPFTJll Sir, and Lowinge Freind,
I am bold again to troubill yow with thefe few lynis, becaus that
I am informed that my nightbouris, the Campbellis hes giwin it furthe
that my proceedingis with the Clandonnald is bot ane colluffione betuixt
them and me, and hes fo fpokin to his Majeftie. Heirfor I wald requeft
yow, Sir, as the freind in whom I truft when I haue moft to doo, that
ye wald informc his Majeftie in the eontrair, and that no eonditione wea
brokin be the Clandonnald to me, but by the Earlc of Argyle his per-
fuaiione, as his Lordfllip's letters, directed to them be his nerreft freind,
fall fchewe. And fordcr, Sir, I wald moft aft'ecluoufly entreat yow to
afiiil this bearer, Mr Thomas Bruice, my nevoy, in fome bufiines of myne
in Irelande, wherof he will informe yow at lengthe. So not troublinge
1614.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 397
yow forder, but my heartlieft commendationis remembred to your felf
and your bedfellow, my Ante, I commit yow and all your good proceid-
ingis to the bliffinge of God, by whois grace I fall ever remane,
Your affuret freind at powar to be commandit,
Edinburgh, the 17 of October 1614. An. Isles.
To the worfhipfull and his worthie kynd
freind, Maifter Murray, of his Maief-
ties bedchalmer — Thefe.
CCXLI.— THE BISHOP OF THE ISLES TO JOHN MURRAY OF HIS
MAJESTIES BEDCHAMBER.
Rycht wirscheffull and wirthie Sir,
I clout nocht bot your Wirfchep will excufe my to homle bould-
nes importunyng yow with fo many frivolus letters, tending all to one
end, becaufe of the neceffite of my erand, wiche is the relewe of my ner-
reft freindis, wiche I prefer to myn awin lyve. Albeit I hawe hard
nothing as yit fra my ferwand, Bryce Sempill, yit I heir that his Maiel-
tie haith takin a cours folert and fubftantious for the recouery of the
houfe in lyla, and keiping of that Iyll vnder obediens heireftir. My
fut now wiche I befeik your Wirfchep to propone to his Maieftie is, to
wndirftand, feing that boith Inglifch and Scotifch ar to be thair, and that
alfo (if it pleas God) I muft be, what fhalbe my credeit amangis tham,
efpeciale what conditiones it fchall pleas his Maiefte to giwe hberte to
his Heichnes Lewtenent to grant to the rebellis for the relewe of my
freindis takin vndir treft in his Maieftes ferwice, and detenit now in
irones, nochtwithftanding of promiffes maid to me in the contrer. Sir,
far beit frome me ewer to entir wndir condition or truft with that falfe
generatioun and bludie pipill ; yit I muft firft, for the relewe of my
freindis out of the irones, and thaireftir out of ther handis, if it can be
poffibill, for the prefent, be thair flawe and promefs to do, and do what
398 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1614.
I hawe credcit to do, as thay dere6l me. Bot yit, by the graice of God,
fchall newer promefs nor prefs to do any thing in thair fawouris that
may offend his Maiefle, or twichc his Heichnes in honour or profeit ;
and thairfoir, albeit I paft to this laft jurney towartis Iyla wthirwayes
nor his Maiefte dere&it the Confall to fend me, becaufe ther Lord-
fchippis was biffeit in the effairis of Orknay, and partle leanyng to the
oithes and promiffes of the rebellis, and partle deceawit by thois who
was with me, and promifed to hawe bene my gard, I com in the danger
of thais mofl rigorous vilanes, who vfet and yit vifes thair vicborie vere
tyrannicale aganis thois who newir offendit tham in word nor deid. Yit
[ hoip to do his Maiefte good ferwice, as I hawe done warie laitlie, boith
in Iyrland and Scotland, of the wiche his Heichnes will heir or it be
long. And fwa my truft is, that his Maiefte will be gratioufie pleafed to
wryt to his Heichnes Confall heir what credeit I fchall hawe with the
Levtenent in Iyla, at this tym, as alio, what conditiones may be grantit
to the rebellis for delyvere of the captyvis. Thay ar many vayes to
ourthraw that boll generatioune, nochtwithftanding that fum what be
yeldit to fum of tham for the efchewing of the danger of the mens lyvis
who ar in ther handis. Thair is certane offeris maid by Sir James
M'Ronald wiche it behovit me to prefent to the Confall, who commandit
me to fend vp the famin to his Maiefte, wiche pleas yow receawe heir
inclofit, and to prefent the famin, if yow think good, to his Heichnes.
The thre quhom he offeris to delyver ar the aucloris of all the rebellion in
Iyla. They ar many vyfe men heir who thinkis that the performyng of
thir offeris war ane ware eafe way to fatiffe his Maiefte for the contempt,
and purge the land of that pipill. Bot referring all to his Heichnes
princele derecliones, and your awin difcretione, I befek God to blifs and
profpir yow and yowris, for by his graice I fchall remaine
Your awin to be commandit,
Edinbrugh, 23 October 1G14. An. Isles.
To the rycht wirfehepfull his warey lowing
coufing, Jhone Murrey of the hed-
chahner — Tliay.
1614.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 399
CCXLII.— THE ARCHBISHOP OF GLASGOW TO JOHN MURRAY
OF LOCHMABEN.
Sir,
I refavit the letteris for the Jefuitis tryal to the Counfal, and
fince one from your felf, touching the Bifhop of Galloway his effairis
with Garleis. Qhen thai cum to he treatit, I fal haif care that the
Nobleman may be fatiffeit in reafon, and every man haif his own tithis.
Being at Sanqhar, William Creichtoun of the Hil cam to me from young
Drumlanrig with commendationis, faying, he wes fory that I fuld fpeik
of him as one that had not ftand to the promife maid to me for ending
your and his effairis, for he countit much of his worde, and fo forth. 1
anfwerit, that I never fpak of that matter to any but my fervant, Andro
Hay ; but fince he had broken it now, I wold tel the truth, that he gaif
me warrant that al fuld be agreit, fo as I wold move his Maieftie to
requyr him to do the fam ; and qhen I had wrocht that, I fand him mak
fchiftis, and fet other face vpon his fpeech then the wordis culd bear :
alwayis, I fchew him that for the good wil I bure to the Laird, I wold
advyfe him, as afore, to fettle him felf in the Kingis favour, and with his
neighboris ; that in my opinioun he culd not begin better then with
yow, becaufe your freindfchip and credit, be reafon of your fervice, culd
not be but very ferviceable to him ; and for my felf, if he fuld end with
yow in love, I wald omit nothing that might ferve to do him plefure,
and lay in me to do ; otherwyfe, fo longe as ye and he wer in variance,
he fuld not expe6t any thing at my handis, for his luikis. The gentle-
man returnit the next day, and brocht me anfwer, that the Lard wold
be in Edinburgh foon after the term, and wold follow my advyfe. This
is al of that bufines.
Now, I mull imparte to yow our ftate heir, that at the firft occafioun
yow may acquent his Maieftie thairwith. Qhairas his Maieftie wes
gracioufly plefit to accept my advyfe anent the proceding with the
Jefuit and his mafie-heiraris, and to gif dire6tioun thairanent that thair
tryal myght be maid at Glafgow, fum heir haif maid bufines to bring the
400 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1614.
tryal to Edinburgh,1 qhiche I vnderftanding, I cam to the Counfcl, and
not without difficultie, by the afliftance of the Secretary, Sir Gedeon,
and Clerk of Regilter, obtenit the dyet fuld keip in Glafgow, the 6 of
December: The Clerk of Regifter is put in the Commiffioun for the
Advocat, that culd not be fparit from the Counfel and Seffioun. The
courfe of Papiftrie hes gone on fo far heir, by the negligence of our
Miniltcris, the foolifchncs of fum of our felfis that his Maieftie hes placit
to hold tham to thair dutyis, and the favour born to thani be fum prin-
cipal of our State, that I affure yow nothing kepis religioun heir, but
his Maiefties countenance and favour to it ; and the boldnes of the
enemy with thair preparation!! apperis fik as, I am out of doubte, thai
expeetit at this tym fum mifeheif to ben wrocht thair againft his
Maiefties facred lyf, qhiche God preferve. I haif fure informatioun that
in this Kingdom ar 27 Jefuitis, two deput for every Dyoce ; and one
Father Bel, the Pope's Legat, that directis tham, and takis account
quarterly of thair fucceffe, and how thai fpeid. The apprehenfioun of
this other callit Monet, latly come from Rome, at Santandrois, fervis to
fchew thair bufines : Qhen this fellow that I haif falbe examinat and put
to torture (for otherwyfe he wil anfwer nothing, and boaftis much of his
confidence and courage againft al torture), I hope fumqhat of moment
falbe tryit and found out : alwayis fen the care thairof lyis vpon me
cheifly, I mean twiching this fellow that I haif, and his allbciatis, I wil
humbly entreat his Maiefties favour in the profequutioun of thair tryal,
and his Hicnes direclioun by letteris, in fik maner as I haif fet down and
inclolit heirwith ; qhich I hope his Maieftie wil approve, as being the fam
in effecl; that wcs direct it before, but alterit in fum circumftancis, for the
greater tcrrour of the enemyis and afraying of otheris to fal in the lyk
offenfe. Our Synode, latly convenit at Glafgow, hes pennit ane fuppli-
catioun to his Maieftie for fupprefiing Papiitis, qhiche becaufe of my
bailie cuming from Glafgow, I culd not haif to fend with this. 1 am not
able to expreffe to yow our danger, nor wold ye beleve it; but for thair
1 ■■ The Archiebiahope of Glasgow is wrettin to, to send heir the Preist apprehendit
be him, according to the directioun of his Maiesteis letters, and toutehing the exauiinatioun
and censuring of these quho had bene at the Messe with him : Comniissioune is ordanit to
I"' exped as hi* Maiestie has commandit." — (Privy Council Proceedings. 26th Oct. 1G14.)
1614.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 401
lyvis dar thaj not appeir, fo longe as his Maieftie livis to protect ws ;
thairfore we can but pray continually for his Hienes faftie, and befeche
yow and otheris that haif the honour to attend his Maiefties facred
perfon to be careful and obfervant of al fuche as hant Courte, or cum
towardis his Hienes, that his lyf, in qhom confiftis al our lyfis, and the
lyf of Keligioun itfelf, be not in hafart, throw thair trecherous and
defperat attemptis. I wil expect the anfwer of thefe before the fourt of
December, or foner, as ye may. I haif fent back your letteris, as ye
defyrit. God Almyghtie watche over his Maieftie, to his prefervatioun,
and be with yow for ever.
Youris ever to command,
Edinburgh, the 12 of November 1614. Glasgow.
To my very honourabill good freind, Jlion
Murray of Lochmaben, of his Maiefties
bedchamber.
CCXLIIL— THE EAEL OF CAITHNESS TO KING JAMES.1
Pleis your most Sacared Maiestie :
I haiue taikine this boldnes to vryt thir lynis vnto your Sacared
Maieftie to fignifie vnto you of my returne to this toune from Orknay,
vith accomplifching all thingis gifine me in commiffion, quhair vnto I
haife dune all, fo far as in me lay, to giue your Maieftie contentment ;
and if I haife omitit enny thing, I moft humblie craife your Maiefteis
pardoune, protefting to God I lakit not ane willing hairt, and ane moft
obedient bodie, to haife onder gone all kynd of danjour to haiue had
your Maieftie pleifit and fatiffeit. My fkille, I man confes, was not
1 This letter, from having been placed in Balfour's series of Ecclesiastical Letters, is not
contained in the Melros State Papers, or in Pitcairn's Criminal Trials, with other letters
of the Earl of Caithnes, concerning his proceedings in Orkney in 1614.
3e
402 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1614.
eorafpondent to my wille, l>ot praifit be to God, he of his mcrfie hes
maid all thingis cum, by your Maiefteis guid luk, and not my guid gyid-
ing, as I dowt not your Maiefties honorabille Counfell hes acquantit
your Maieftie vithe, that now all is prouine vpone the only awthore of
this vyld and onnaturall rcbellioune, quhilk I dowt not bot your Maieftie
will lie cleire, efter that I haife mad ane account of the commiflioune
giiin me in my imployment. I am to cume vnto your Sacared Maieftie
to haife that honoure. As to haife ane kife of your Maiefteis moft gra-
lius hand, the erthlie on thing I craife moft. So to your Maiefteis will
and anfuer, I end, cominiting your Maieftie to the tuitioune off the All-
mightie ; and I fall euer reft and remane
Your Maiefteis moft obedient and faithfull
feruand to my deathe,
Edinburgh, the 16 Nouember 1014. Caithnes.
To his moft Sacared Maieftie.
CCXLIV— LORD BINNING TO JOHN MURRAY OF LOCHMABEN.
Sib,
Be my laft letter 1 promeifed to let yow know how I fould pro-
ceid with my Lord of Scone, and the Bifchop of Galloway. I haue
fpoken with thame at lenth. My Lord of Scone's proiecl; is, that yow
may obteanc ane few from his Maieftie of the Lowinonds, vpon ane eafie
dewtie, fince thav haue not bene of his Maiefties rentall, whairof he hes
promeifed to let me banc the ouverture in writ; efter conlideration
whairof, I fall let yow know what I can vnderftand of the furetie or
commoditie thairof. The Bifchop of Galloway and John Gib ar both in
this towTie, perfytting thair fecurities ; which being ended, the fundations
mil regifter of the Chapell Royall will be deliuered to my Lord of Gal-
loway, who Iks promeifed to mak yow all the furetie he can, of any
thing being in his power. I fchcw to him how yow wer vied be my
1614.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 403
Lord of Garlies. He fayd, that he knew and difallowed findrie of his
formes, and wald gladlie have forborne to do him fauour, if his Maiefties
letter, and the refpecl to efchew fclander, had not forced him to giue
him condicions of the teynds, to which he wes kyndlie. At his defyre,
I fpak to my Lord of Glafgow to have concurred, to except your vaffals
teynds owt of the tak to be fet to the Lord Garleis, bot thay could not
find any reafonable pretext for it. For your Irifh affaires, I can wryte
no thing, being ignorant of the eftate thairof, bot be report. I heir
that the Bifchop of the lies is to repaire to Court, be whom yow mav
try thair wourth, for it is faid that the fame is well knowne to him. So,
wifhing yow much happines and contentment, I reft
Your nioft affe&ionat freind at command,
Edinburgh, 17 December [1614.] Binning.
To the right wourfchipfull John Murray
of Lochmaben, one of his Maiefties bed-
chamber, at Court.
CCXLV SIR ANDREW MURRAY OF BALVAIRD TO JOHN MURRAY
OF LOCHMABEN.
Right Honorable Sir,
1 wret vnto yow leatlie to interpone your requeft with the Duke
of Lenox, in fauoures of ane young man,1 whom I defyred to be pre-
ferred to the Miniftrie at the Kirk off Methuen. Bot now their pre-
fentes ane occafioun vtherwayes for his preferment : Kilfpindie is ane
Kirke belonging vnto the Lordfhip of Scone : The Minifter thereoff
1 It would appear that owing to Gladstanes's opposition (see pages 270, 274), Mr Robert
Murray's settlement at Strathmiglo had been set aside. That he was the " young man" here
alluded to, is evident ; and the first application in his favour, upon the decease of Mr William
Buchanan, Minister of Methven, seems to have been successful. At least his name occurs
as Minister of Methven, in 1620, and that of Mr George Simmer as Minister of Kilspindie ;
whilst the person who actually became Minister of Strathmiglo (between lGi I and 1615),
was Mr John Moray or Murray : he conformed to Presbytery in 1638, and died in 1655.
404 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1015-
departed yefternight.' The prefentatioun belonges to his Majeftie. It
will pleafe yow to affift Mr Thomas Moray to obtein the prefentatioun
thereon' for his brother fone, wha lies bein with me thcfe thre or four
yeires ; and I pray yow alfo to wret ane letter off your awen to the
Bifehopc off Saintandrows in his fauoures : whilk will be fufficient for
outtredding off our earand. And I will be anfwerable vnto yow, vpon
my credit, that nathcr his Maieftie, nor yet any Bifchope, nor na vther
honed man in Scotland, fchal euer find fault with yow for vfing your
moyen in this particular; and for my awen pairt, I will think myfelf
very muche bund vnto yow for this fauour ; and giff the young manes
merits wer as weill knawen wnto yow as they ar to many off the
Bifchopes and Miniftrie off this Kingdome, ye wald think any trauell
ye take for him weill imployed.
I mynd, God willing, to be in Edinbrughe fa fone as thir holydayes
oft" Chriflmas ar at ane end, and then fchal ye heir from me the effect
oft' that purpofe I wret in the end off my laft letter. Till when, and
for euer, my mod affe&ionat dewtie rememberit, I reft
Your moft loving Brother to feme yow,
S. Androw Moray of Baluairde.
Baluairde, the firft of Januar 1G15.2
To my very honorable and louing freind,
Jlione Moray of Loghemaben, on off
his Maiefties bcdehalmer.
1 Mr James Row ; — (Records of the Synod of Fife, pp. 51, 63, 72.) His death is
thus noticed by a contemporary annalist ; the cause apparently being suffocation from
charcoal in a confined apartment : — " In the town of Dundee, upoun Thursday night,
the xxix of December 1G14 yeiris, Mr James Row, Minister at Kilspindie, and Mr
Robert ltynd, Minister at Langforgown, hand both in ane bed within the dwelling-
house of , and baith being weill quhen thay lay down, wer foundc vpoun
the morning efter, both deid."— (Chronicle of Perth, p. 10.)
'The year (apparently corrected to 1015) was first written 1G14, and the letter is
so placed in the vol. of Balfour's " Staite Bussines for the zeire 1014." The reference
explained in the two preceding notes leaves, however, no doubt as to the proper date.
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 405
CCXLVI.— MR WILLIAM MURRAY, MINISTER OF DYSART, TO JOHN
MURRAY OF LOCHMABEN.
Etght Worschipfull,
I am informed, that fome malicious perfonis has informed his
Maieftie,1 that fince my lait being in Ingland I have bene refraciare,
oppofit, and nocht lb fordward in maters concerning the Difcipline off
the Kirk eftablifched be his Maieftie heir in Scotland. I wonder that
any fould have prtefumed to fpeak fuche thinges to his Maieftie without
fome fuire warrand and ground. His Maieftie knawis that my educa-
tioun was with ane Bifchop. I have ever bene, and is off that opinioun,
that the Epifcopall government, off all governments, is fitteft for the
Kirk. In all Aftemblies I ever votit for eftablifching off that Eftait.
And has bene ane forderer off that work be my felff and all vthers
quhome I could perfuaid to that effect, as the Bifchopes and his Ma-
iefties Commiffioneris employit in that work can teftifie. It feemit
ftrainge that my being in Ingland fould [haue] alterit me frome that
courfe of vpon I was befoir, feing I faw na thing thair bot manifold
argumentis and reafonis to confirme in my former opinioun. And fince
my cuming from Ingland, at all occafionis, in all cumpanies, has kythed
my felff mair fordward in that caufe than ever I was befoir. For fatif-
fa&ioun off his Maieftie I am not onlie content to mak my awin purga-
tioun, to fchaw my awin innocencie in that mater ; but am moift willing,
and moift erniftlie wifchis his Maieftie to tak the moift exacl tryall can
be haid. Giff ever my delateris qualefeis and proves that thai haue
fpoken aganis me, I falbe willing to vnderly all higheft punifchment it
will pleas his Maieftie injoyne. Sua, Sir, I muft requeft your Worfchip,
as ane off my fpeciall freindis, and in refpe<5t the Prince 2 his Court whair
my Brother remanis is diftant frome his Maiefties Court, that ye will do
me that Angular fauour as to fchaw his Maieftie that, vpon the report
1 The subsequent letters, CCLII.-CCLV., show clearly enough that the information
complained of had proceeded from Archbishop Gladstanes.
2 Charles, Prince of Wales.
406 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1615.
maid off me, I haiie takin the occafioun to wreat vnto your Worfchip to
vnderftand his Maiefties will and plefour heirin, that in caice his Ma-
ieflie wilhe pleafed to put that mater to ane exact tryall, and to causmy
delater accufe me in prefence off fik off his Maiefties Counfell and
Clergie as pleafit heft his Maieftie, as I hoip that mater falbe fa clcarit,
for punifchment off ilk as dar prefume to mifinforme his Maieftie off his
guid fubicetis and feruandis : And lykwayis for manifefting off my fince-
ritie and innocencie in this aefioun, and my feruice to his Maieftie and
Kirk off Scotland. I befeech yow, Sir, haift me an anfwer quhat I may
look for off his Maiefties will and pleaibur in this mater, and quhat ye
will have me to do heirin : Committis your \Yorfchip to God. Refting
alwayes
Your feruitour at commandement,
Mr Williasie Moray.1
Edinburgh, 6. January 1615.
I requeft you, Sir, fend this vther lettir to my Brother, Mr Thomas,2
with all diligence.
To the richt worfchipfull my fpeciall
freind, Jhone Moray off Lochmabane,
one off his Maiefties bedchamber.
' Mr William Moray or Murray, Minister of Dysart, is to be distinguished from his
namesake and cousin, the Minister of Crail. He was admitted to the Ministry in
1584-5. His inclination towards Episcopal Church government was scarcely to be
suspected. When Bpottiswood was translated, in 1015, to St Andrews, Calderwood states
that William Murray, George Grahame, Bishop of Dunblane, and John Abernetliy,
Minister of Jedburgh. " made every one their own moyen at Court for the Bishoprik
of Glasgow : but the King preferred Mr James Law, Bishop of Orkney," &c. — (History,
vol. vii. p. 213.) Murray's eldest son. William, was created Earl of Dysart, by Charles
the First, in 1643.
* Mr Thomas Murray, third son of Patrick Murray of Woodend, was Governor, and
afterwards Secretary, to Prince Charles. He received the appointment of Provost of
Eton College, in 1022, but died the following year, 9th April 1623.
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 407
CCXLVII.— THE BISHOP OF CAITHNES TO JOHN MURRAY, OF HIS
MAJESTIES BEDCHAMBER.
RlCHT HONORABILL AND LOWEING BROTHER,
Pleafe yow witt: I did purpofe, efter my arriwall heir from
Caithnes, to hawe kiffit his Maiefties handis, immediatlie heirefter, and fo
I did fuperceid to vifite yow by letter ; but now, beand impedit be his
Hienes ferwice heir at Edinburgh, and in fpeciall in tryall and examina-
tioun of the late apprehendit Jefuitis,1 I am compellit to fupplie my
abfence by thefe few lynes, defyreing to knaw, be yow, quhat ordour his
Maieftie hes giwin for difpatche of our Churche effaires at Court. I
dout not, but furthe of his Hienes vonted princelie favour, we fall hawe
that libertie to name fum fpeciall pcrlbnc of credit and qualitie with
quhome we may communicate the miftery of our Eftait, without preju-
dice of any perfone defignit for prefenting of letteris or pactitis [packets]
concerneing our common Churche effairis. Thus, intreating yow effec-
tuouflie to acquaint me with your anfwer anent the premiffes, and how
we fall carie our felves heirin, my loweing dewtie remembrit, I commit
yow to the grace of God, and reftis
Your affurit freind and brother,
efter the auld maner,
A. B. Cathnes.
At Edinburgh, the vij of Januar 1615.
To his honorable and loweing brother,
Johne Murray, on of his Maiefties
bedchamber.
1 The notice given by Calderwood (vol. vii. p. 193) is confirmed by the Latin account
of Ogilby's Trial, written by himself, (see note on subsequent page, to No. CCLX.)
of his having been brought to Edinburgh, for examination, previously to his final con-
demnation at Glasgow.
408 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [161.1.
CCXLVIII.— MR THOMAS RAMSAY, MINISTER OF DUMFRIES, TO JOHN
MURRAY, OF HIS MAJESTIES BEDCHAMBER.
My HUMBLE AND BOUND EN DEWTIE REMEMBRED :
As I wes eamefl with your Honour before for remouing the
excommunicat Papifts, of whom I wrote, out of Lincluden, fo now much
more I mult acknowledge that I am bound to returne to your Honour
your deferued thanks for that care your Honour hes had in geving me
fatuTa&ion. I reffaued two letters of your owne, which gaue the haill
Kirk beer very great contentment, fo as they think themfelues farre
obliged to your Honour, and they do earneftly intreat the fauour of
Almightie God, the King of kings, vnto you for this proofe that they
found of your Honouris good affection to religion. My Lord Sanquhar,
vpon the light of your Honouris letter, wes moft willing and fordward in
that bufines, but it wes in effect done befoir. Surely his Lordfhip, in
my Judgement, fhall proue a tbankfull man to your Honour, and no-
waves How in any thing that concerneth your effaires. Robert Mak-
brayer wes offended not a litle, that your Honour mould haue him in
fufpicion for that mater. I fuppofe it fhalbe found that he wes free of
tliair comming in or abyding thair. Iff there be any thing wherein I or
any of my brcthreen may be fteedable to your Honour in this cuntrey,
your Honour may affure yourfelf of our willing and very affecStionat
fervice. So, commending your Honour hartily to the mercie and
blefling of God, I humbly take leaue, and refts
Your Honouris feruant at all power,
Mr Tho. Ramsay.
Dumfreis, the 10 day of Januar lGlo.
To the Right honourable and his affured
t'rcind, Johnc Murray of Lochmaben,
one of his Maicfties bedchamber.
1615.1 TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 409
CCXLIX.— MR JAMES BISCHOP, MINISTER OF INVERNESS, TO
KING JAMES.
Sacred Soueran,
It may pleas your mofl gratius Maieftie, the fervent zeale and
fingulare loue that I am perfuaded your Grace lies ever had in the
aduancment of the Kingdome of Chrift, the kindlie and earneft fauour
which ever hes bein evident in your Maieftie tovardes the finceire
Preachers of his Gofpell, my avin vrgent neceffitie in preaching of that
truthe, in thir vtmoft partes of your Maiefties dominiones, does imbolden
me, be thefe fewe lynes, to impafche your Maieftie from your more
Royall and great affaires, for the whiche I crave your Grace molt humble
pardon. The matter is this : I have thefe ten yeares bygone ferved
Chrift in preaching of his Gofpell at Innernes, till I am conftrained,
through the fmalnes of my provifion and weght of my burdein, evin to
defert my miniftrie in theife partes, except remeid be provydit. The
conftant plate [platt] at Edinburgh affigned me to tuentie bolles wictuall
out of the Abacie of Arbrothe. Off the which Abacie this Kirk is ane.
Thair is no thing done as yett in that matter. Quhairfore it will pleafe
your Maieftie to fuffer your humble fervand to be fo hamelie as to
intreat your Grace for ane letter of requeft to the Marquus of Hamil-
toun,1 defyring him, feting all excuffis afyd, to fatiffie me, or elles to pre-
fent me to the Parfonag of Innernes, which fhall ftand in alfe guid effect
as if I had received the faid tuentie bolles wictualle. Thus doing, your
Maieftie fall bothe honour God, contort his Kirk in this end of the land,
cpihair, if ther were no planting, your Maieftie knaves perfytlie howe
thinges fould be. Thus, hoping for your Maiefties wonted fauour to
God his fervandes, to be extendit tovardes me, houbeit ane of the
meaneft, I pray the living God to multiplie his bleffinges, fpirituall
and temporall, wpon your Grace, till at lenth the King of kinges be
1 The Abbacy of Aberbrothoek, on the 8th May 1608, was erected into a temporal
Lordship, in favour of James Marquess of Hamilton, whose father had been the last Com-
mendatory Abbot of this place.
3f
410 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1615.
glorified, your Maieftie be fullie conforted, and all your enemies be
confounded. And lb I reft
Your Malefties moft humble fervitour.
M. James Bischop,
Innernes, the xxth of Januar 1615. Minifter at Innernes.
To the Kino; his moft Excellent Maieftie.
CCL.— A MISSIVE TO THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL.
To the Counsel!.
Right truftie and welbeloued Cofen and Counfellour, and others
Our right trufty and welbeloued Cofens and Counfellours, &c. Whereas
Wee are informed by the Bifhop of the Ifles that certaine feditious and
euill difpofed perfones haue, by crafty and indirect meanes, procured
and entertaynod this late trouble of Ifles, trafficking with them to that
effect, as the faid Bifchope offers himfelf to juftifie befor yow : Therefor
Our plcafure is, that yow caufe cite and conveene before yow all fuch as
are lair byding whom he will accufe for the caufe forfaid ; and if there
be any others that are alreadie fugitive, or not anfweareable to Our
lawes, that yow grant a Commiffion for apprehending them ; and if any
of the Rebells happen to be taken alyue (which AVec would wifhe to
be the rather for that caufe), let them be confronted before yow with
them, for the better cleareing of that mater. Lykwifc, becaufe it is
complayned vnto Us by the faid Bifchop, that findrie lands belonging
vnto him are conveighed away, vnder the colour of other temporal! lands,
to the prejudice of the Church, Our will is, that in tymecomeing all
fignaturcs which pane concerning fuch Irifh lands be examined, that the
like be not done hereafter to harmc the faid Bifchoprick, which Wee
nowife intend. So recomending this to your care, "Wee, &c.
Newmarkett, 22 Januar 1615.
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 411
CCLI A MISSIVE TO THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS.
To the Archbishope of St Androis.
Eight reuerend Father in God, right trufty and welbeloued
Counfellour, Wee greet, &c. Whereas it is complained to Us by Mr
James Seaton, Minifter at Logie, that, by reafone of the meaneffe of his
ftipend, now of late, without eaufe, diminifhed, he nor no honeft [man]
is able to feme any longer there, but hath already purchaft letters of
tranfportation that he may goe to fome other parte, fo that the faid
Church is likely to remayne altogether defolate, without it be in tyme
prevented : Wherfor, out of that earneft care which We haue euer had
to haue the Churches of that Our Kingdome well planted, Our pleafure
is, that, after due triall taken of the ftate of the faid Church, if it be
found as is alleadged, that all ordinarie meanes be vied whereby it may
be moft conveniently provided, whereby yow fhall doe Vs an acceptable
feruice. So not doubting of your diligence, Wee bidd, &c.
Newmarket, the 22 Januar 1615.
CCLII— LORD BINNING TO JOHN MURRAY OF LOOHMABEN.
Sir,
I exfpected the dimming heir of the Bifchop of Galloway, to ane
meitting of the whole Bifchopis, be appoyntment of the Archibifchop
of Santandrois ; and expected that, be his meanes, my Lord of Scone
might haue learned the certantie of findrie of the Archideanes fpeaches,
for I beleve his father repeated fum of thame to the Bifchop of Gallo-
way. My Lord of Gairlies wes to have bene in this towne, bot his
wyfes feiknes maid him to returne hame, till he fould fie what fould
become of hir difeafe.
When James Makcullo reffaued my letter, willing him to try the
412 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1616.
veritie anent the wrong done to the place of Broughton, he wes not
neir that pairt off the cuntrie ; hot he lies promeifed, be his letter, to
do his exact diligence, and to aduerteis according to the trueth of his
tryall.
The ftorme lies iinpefched the convening of the moft pairt of the
Bifchops, fo that my Lord of Galloway is fcaircelie exfpected, nather is
thair certantie of my Lord of Glafgowes cumming this oulk ; hot be ane
letter, which 1 latelie rcifaucd fra him, I vnderftand that he is greived
with his collogues mdewtifull behauiour to yow, and that he intends to
remayne conftant and thankfull for your kyndnes.
Yow will vnderftand, be letters from my Lord of Scone and Baluaird,
the conferences paft betuix thame and the Archibifchop of Santandrois,
concerning the Perfon of Dyfert ; which bewryes fuch dealing, as no
honeit man wald do or allow, fince he nather can alledge any miibeha-
uiour in the perfon, nor will giue him ane teftimonie of his dewtifull
behauiour, albeit he confeffe it to be true and notour; bot remeid Mill
be fund for that. Alwayes, it is certane, that if his Maieftie permit
hears to calumniat honell men, and put not the authours to the pruif of
thair mifmformations, he will bring vpon hiin felf great vexation ; and
fum of his beft fubiectis may be iniuftlie wronged, without hope of
redreife, if the authours of the uiifreports fall not be maid knowne, nor
thair fpeaches put to tryall. Bot, hoping that his Maieftie, in his
lingular wiidome, will prevent fuch mifcheiffs, I commit yow to God.
Your truelie affectionat freind,
Binning.
Edinburgh, 2G Januar [1615.]
The Archibifchop of Santandrois lies pafied ane dangerous fit of apo-
plexie. It is fupponed that ane new affault may be more difKcill to put
af. If his place vaik, and his Maieftie might be pleafed to mak Glaf-
gow his fucceffour, and promoue Orknay to Glafgow, it wald recompens
thair knowne merite, and gude feruice, incourage vthers to imitate
thame, and reduce the Churche gouernement to that happie eftate,
1G15.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 413
which his Maieftie lies long wifhed, be the wifdome and godlie exemple
of thefe wourthie men.
To the right wourfchipfull John Murray
of Lochmaben, one of his Maiefties
bedchamber, at Court.
CCLIIL— THE EAEL OF DUNFERMLINE TO JOHN MURRAY.
RlCHT HoNORABILL CoUSING,
I haue na farder occafioun to write to yiow at the prefent, bot
to accumpanie this berar, with quhais earand heir I doubt nocht bot
yie ar acquent ; like as he will fhiaw to yiow all that guid freinds has
done heir. 1 doubt nocht bot my Lord Secretair writes yiow heirwith,
like as I haue alfo writtin to my Lord Fentoun, and willed him fhiaw
my lettir to his Sacred Maieftie ; and gif he be abfent frome Court, I
haue defired him fend it to yiow, to be on his name fhiawin to his
Maieftie, and reteired agane. His Maieftie, feeing baith quhat the
Secretair writes to yiow, and quhat I write to Lord Fentoun, I efteeme
fall fufficientlie tak up quhow far Mr Williame Murray is failed too :
It can nocht be bot a regraitt to honeft men, that debofched drunkin
babillis fould prefume, fa impudentlie, at fa wyfe and iufte a Prencis
hand, to mifreport honeft and wordie men, abufing his fauour, more to
thair eftait, nor to thair mereit or onye worth ; bot man be borne with,
fince eiuer fa has bein fuim onuordie in onye beft eftaitt or gang off
men, a Judas amanges Chryftis twelf Apoftlis. Sua ending this, wiffes
yiow alwayis all weill.
Yiour louing Coufing to ferue yiow,
Frome Edinburgh, 28 Januar 1615. Dunfermljne.
To the right honorabill my weilbeloued
Cofen, Mr Morraye, in his Sacred
Maiefties bedchalmer.
414 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1615.
CCLIV.— LORD BINNING TO JOHN MURRAY OF LOCHMABEX.
Sir,
I fend this vther letter to yow, and the Perfon's Supplication, to
the effeel yow may fchow thame to his Maieftie, or mak fuch vther gude
vfe of thame as may heft availe your wourthie Cufing ; aganis whom the
malice of liars, and thair pernicious courfes, haue cheiflie hene intended ;
hot I hope his loyaltie, affifted he his true freindis, fall difapoynt thair
proie&s.
The extraordinar ftormes haue ftayed the Bifchop of Gallowayes
cumming to this toune, and thairby will hinder my Lord of Scone
to try fo perfytlie as neid wer, that whairof yow defyre to be certi-
fied : Bot yow will find that he who attempted that purpofe, to your
preiudice, will find als lit ill affiftance in it, as he had fcaircetie of
gude counfall in the devyce, for I think all, or the moft pairt, of
his bretheren will difavow him. My Lord of Scone, and Baluaird,
will wryte more particularlie, becaus they have verie fpeciall war-
rand, from conferences with findrie who knew the trueth of all mens
pairtis heir.
In the pourpofe of Eglinton, all will be done as his Maieftie lies
commanded, as yow will know by oure nixt letters, till which tyme
I will fuperfeid to anfweir any farder to your letters of the 20 of
this moneth ; bot, with remembrance of my loving dewtie, commit yow
to God.
Your obleifed and affectionat freind,
Binning.
Edinburgh, 29 Januar [1615.]
To the right wourfchipfull Johne Murray
of Lochmaben, one of his Maiefties bed-
chamber, at Court.
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 415
CCLV LORD BINNING TO JOHN MURRAY OF LOCHMABEN.
Sir,
As be your letter yow defyred, I liaue bene moft curious to
learne Maifter William Murray the Perfon of Dyfert's bebauiour and
profeffion of bis dewtie and refpect to tbe Bifchops, and of bis opinion
of the prefent Churche Gouernement ; and have fund it moft faithfull
and dewtifull, not onlie be the report of gentilmen of the belt fort, to
whom his actions ar well knowne, hot alfo be findrie Bifchops, who beare
him Avitnes of finceritie and gude conuerfation, and that he lies neuer
fwairwed in his obedience to tbame, and concurrence to the efta-
blefment of the prefent Difcipline. This being my privat tryall, it
wes confirmed more publictlie and be better warrand, vpon Friday
laft, at ane meiting of ane number of the Counfall, with the Archi-
bifchop of Glafgo, Bifchops of Dunkell, Caitnes, Dumblane, and Orknay
(the reft being hindered to cum be ftornie, and Santandrois be
feiknes.) Wben we wer convened, the Perfon of Dyfert gaue in his fup-
plication, regraiting the wrong done to him be report to his Maieftie,
that lies fince his laft returne from England profeffed him felf oppofite
to the prefent gouernement of the Churche, and to the authoritie
of Bifchops ; it being true that he wes brogbt vp be ane Bifchop, and
from his youth had euer thoght thair authoritie neceffar, for the ordour
of Churche gouernement, and fince his Maieftie began to aduance
that gude courfe, no man in this Kingdome of his eftate had bene
more reddie or conftant in Synodall and Generall Affemblies, and all
vther places, to giue his profeffed and faithfull concurrence for acknou-
ledgeing, eftableiffing, and obeying the Bifchops, nor be had done ;
becaus he thoght it his dewtie to God, his King, and cuntrie ; and
thairfore defyred that he might be tryed be that number, and aither
puneiffed, if the report wer fund true, or if it wer tryed fals, as he wes
confident it wald be, be might be fauoured be the teftimoniall of the
Counfall and Bifchops. It wes anfuered be the Counfall, that albeit his
gude behauiour and faithfull dewtie in that mater wes notour to tbame,
416 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1615.
yet they wald forbear to vndcrtak the tryall of it, becaus it wes compe-
tent to the Bifehops, to whom thay wald refer it, being affured that thay
wald proceid juftlie thairin : The which, all the Bifehops then prefent
promeifed to do, without delay, acknowledging the notorietie of the Per-
fon's dewtie in his loue and obedience to thair cftate, and regraitting that
any man fould have bene fo imprudentlie malicious, as to have wronged
that honeft man, by ane report, not onlie wanting trueth, bot contrare
to all probabilitie.
I vnderftand, that my Lord of Scone and the Laird of Baluaird fpak
with the Arehbifchop of Santandrois, and hard of him firm fpcaches
which I will be loath to beleive, and will forbeare to cxpres thame for
the reuerence of the place whairwith his Maieftie lies honored him. I
, pray God he had bene and may be cairefull to honour it, if he ouerput
his prefent infirmitie ; and if it pleafe God he die, that his Maieftie
may male that choice of ane fucceffour to him which may belt agrie
with Goddis feruice and his owne ; for it is manifeft what difgraee and
mifcheif may enfew of vnwyfe, vnhoneft, or vngodlie behauiour in ane
man of that rank, and no leffe notour, how greatlie it may availe to the
cltableifment of religion, that godlie, wyfe, faithfull, and well affected
men to his Maiefties feruice be fetled in fuch rowines. Of this I will
not prefume to wryte at this tyme to his Maieftie, bot will fay to vow.
vpon my faluation, that I am perfuaded, if Glafgo and Orknay wer
aduanced to the firft places in the clergie, I think he fould be als wour-
thelie ferued be thame in thair eftate, as be any fubieciis in his domi-
nions, and many wald giue thair concurrence to wyfe, conftant, fecret,
and faithful men, who will declyne all affociation with men who want
thefe graces. Bot thir things muft be remitted to his Maieftie, who,
no dowt, will refolue more wyfelie, and do better in pourpofes of this
confequence nor we can confaue. So, wifhing yow health and hap-
pines, I reft
Your moft loving frcind at power.
Binxim;.
Jo. Murray.
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 417
CCLVL— THE ARCHBISHOP OF GLASGOW TO JOHN MURRAY OF
LOCHMABEN.
Sir,
I cam to Edinburgh, qhair I land my Lord of St Andrewis feik.
At the firft, none lukit for his lyf, but now he femis to recover. We
culd not haif any fpeeche with him as yit. This day afternone the
Bifchops ar al to meit in his houfe, qho ar heir in gud number. Being
togither, and conferring, amongell vther purpofis, of the overfight com-
mitted by him towardis your felf, the qhole think tham felfis il vfit in
it, and ar myndit to vnderftand be him the reai'onis of that his preced-
ing, and thairafter to tak fik courfe as thai fal think fitteft for fignifeing
thair conftancie in keping the intelligence thai formerly kept with yow.
I wil thairvpon tak occafioun to wryt at griter lenth, and lend the letter
ye defyrit ; only becaufe the berar wes on his jorney, I wold gif him
thir few lynis. We hail* fent ane teftimony of the Perfon of Dyfartis
good behaviour, againll the informations maid of him. St Androwis
gills out fecreitly (Mr Peter Hewat is my authoure), that thair is ane
courfe to fchift Mr Thomas Murray from the Prince, and that his Ma-
ieftie fuld miflyk him as ane il affected to the eftate of the Kirk. He
i'ayis the Perfon is quarrellit for his caufe only. If he be the forger of
thofe thingis, or a worker in tham, or thair be any fuche thing in head,
I know not ; but, in my opinion, thai neyther lufe Kirk nor Countrey
that wold wifch the remove of fo wyfe and learned and religious a per-
fon, as I account Mr Thomas to be. If I fal learn farther, ye fal haif al
after this our meting. The Bifhop of Galloway is at Perthe, and excufis
him felf by feiknes to ws. Qhat that wes qhich ye ar informit he
hard be St Androwis, I cannot learn til meting with him. Now I tak
my leave, and reftis,
Your affurit to be commandit,
Edinburgh, 30 Januarij 1615. Glasgow.
To my very honourabill good freind, Jhon Mur-
ray of Lochmaben, of his Maiellies bedchamber.
3 G
418 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [161-5.
CCLVII SIR ANDREW MURRAY OF BALVAIRD TO JOHN MURRAY
OF LOCHMABEN.
1 1 1 < ; 1 1 T HONORABLE AND MOST LOVING BROTHER,
Their lies bcin much marvelling heir how it cumes that the
Goodman of Menftrie1 doeth now fend and refaue the Bifchopes
packets, Once vow wer heirtofore imployed be them in all their buffi -
nes : and thoght it be a matter of final or no moment, yet lies it bein
the iuliji'd of much fpeache; and finii their hie who wold faine builde
therupon ane argument to perfuad vthers that your credit with his
Maieftie was in the decay. I could not abftein from laughing when I
hard fuch idle tales ; and yet I thoght it was my dewtie, fa far as I
could, to fearche their grand, and to aducrtife vow. For any thinge I
can learn, the change proceids only from the Bifchope of Saintandrous
leuitie and inconftancic,2 to the which humour they fay, that he is fo
naturallie inclyned, that nothing can pleafs him longe ; all the reft of
the Bifchops ar fo angrie with him for imploying Menftrie, and leauing
yow, as they can bie ; and ye will not belieue how hardlie they haue
cenfured him for it. He can not tell how to fet a goode face vpon it,
1 Sir William Alexander of Menstrie knight. At this time the ottiee of Master of
Requests had been conferred on him.
5 Lord Sanquhar, in a letter to John Murray of Lochmaben, dated from Edinburgh,
1st February [1G15], says: — "And as for the Bisschope of Sanctandrose behewiouie
towards yow, it is cleirlie knawin, bothe to the Kirk of Scotland and to many more, to his
greit dissadwantage, and dislyking of all that heiris the same; ffor the hale Bisschopis is
lyk to go mad at him : tl'or, blist be God, Sir, gif ye hard the honnorabile report the Kirk
reportis of yow, ye wahl think yowr travel] weill bestowid ye haif takin for thame, quhilk
maid my hart glaid to heir the same. Sir, we heir that ye ar a lytile inwyit, and I dowt
nocht bot ye sie the same wtterin sum missour. Sir, my cunsell to yow is, for Godis
cause, to be eircumspeek, and cald, and wyse, and let uoeht yowr passion ower rewle
yow, bot waite yowr tyme, and seik God, and I find yow God to borrowis, they that
seikis yowr discredeit, they sail find thair awin lykwoyis. Sir, ye sail wnderstand Sanct-
androse lies bein wcrie seik, and no man lippinis he sail leif. Sir, I howpe ye will par-
downe me for my CUnsseU to yow ; for I protest to God it eumis frome ane faithful hart
that luffis yow trowlie as himself. Ferder, Sir, ye sail wnderstand that the Erie of
Orkney is conwick oftressone, and is to sutler the thrid of this instant," &c.
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 419
yet for his excufe he alleclges (as I heir fay) that he was commandit, at
leaft willed fo to do, both be his Maieftie and be my Lord of Summer-
let ; and he fayes, that his fone, the Archdean, brought him home
this commandement when he returned from Court laft. Their is no
man that euer hard this tale bot they think it is meir nclioun : the
only dout is whidder it be of the Father or of the Sones invention.
The Archdean, indeed, fince his laft returne from Court, hes giuen out
many great fpeaches, both of the credit he had when he was their, and
of his purpofe to returne, in houpe to haue more : bot he moft find
catioun or he be beliued in all. It is fuppofed that he hes alfo faid
more to his Father nor he had in commiffioun ; and his Father beliues
him, becaus he loues him. It coidd be no worfe for them both to be
fumwhat more circumfpecl nor they ar. The auld man is not lyke to
trowble the world longe. He hes bein very feik thtr dayes paft. Gif I
can learn any more of this matter heirefter, I fchal let yow know it. Gif
ye confer with Mr Thomas Moray, he can inform yow more of the Bif-
chope of Saintandrous proceidinges ; and fo I conclude this purpofe.
I was myndfull at this tym, by my Lord Secretaries means, to haue
lent yow fum Informations and Ouertoures concerning the Lowmondes
of Falkland, and the taking of them in few, bot I haue delayed that
purpofe to ane vther tym ; becaus my Lord of Scone informes me, that
it is your awne will it be lb. Remember, I pray yow, on the houfe of
Falkland, and take cair to fend home ane erneft commiffion for repair-
ing of it this Springe, vther wayes it will not faill to fall all to grunde.
The bake galleries ar alreddie decayed. I pray yow, Sir, to continow
me in your fauour, and command me as your Brother. I wifs yow all
helth and happines, and refts,
Your moft affedtionat freind and Brother to ferue yow,
S. Andkow Moray of Baluairde.
Edinbrughe, the laft of Januar 1615.
To the right honorable Jhone Moray of Loch-
maben, one of his Maiefties bedchamber.
420 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1615;
CCLVIII— THE ARCHBISHOP OF GLASGOW TO JOHN MURRAY OF
LOCHMABEN.
Sir,
I wrote with a gentleman, David Murray, vnto yow, that we
wer to meet together at my Lord St Andrewis houfe the night lie cam
away. In that meting I mufit two thingis, one concerning your felf,
another concerning the Perfon of Dyfert : I laid I vnderftood, hy report
of the Bilhop of Cathnes, that ye had takin offenfe at firm mint we
had maid to alter our intelligencis with yow, and defyrit to know if it
wes fo. My Lord St Androwis anfwerit, That he had refavit ane angry
letter from yow, but lie wold obey, as he had alredy begun, qhat he wes
injoyned; and calhng his Sonne, maid him repeat the commandement
gitin him, qhiche he did fumqhat more fparingly then at the firft tym ;
for then he laid, my Lord of Summerfet had commandit him in his
Maiefties prefence, and now he laid, my Lord himfelf only requyrit it ;
and addit, that the command wes gifin to him for his Father only, and
not to me, or ony of the reft. The qhole laid, iince.thai had no warrant
nor command to fend to anv other, thay wold not change, and fchew
tliam l'elfis offendit with this inconftant doing. Once it wes deliberat to
wryt a common letter to his Maieftie, bearing a teftimonie of your fide-
litic and diligence in thair bufineffe, and defyring to know his Maiefties
will ; but, St Androwis vrging that the letter myght be fent to Sir Wil-
liam Alexander, becaufe he wold not wryt to any other, and we fup-
pofing iik ane anl'wer myght be returnit to ws as we lvkit not, did caft
of that purpofe, concluding we wold keip the courfe that we held, til the
contrair fuld be commandit.
For the Perfon of Dyfert, qhen we alkit him qhat he cold fay had offendit
him. lie anfwerit, that the Perfon had refufit to be a Modcratour at his
defyr ; and this the Perfon exeunt by his feiknes. Finding thair wes no
reafon to haif infonnit fo hardly of him, we laid, we culd not refufe to gif
liini ane teilimonial of his gud behaviour At this he wes very offendit,
and l'mn of ws wold half ben at the recalling of the teftimonie, but it wes
pafl recalling. Bearing af fo wel as I culd, we learnit of him that the
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIKS. 421
quarrel wes at the Perfon, for his brother, Mr Thomas, qho had fet him
on, as he fayis, to inform hardly his Maieflie of my Lord St Androwis ;
and he fel out in this, that the courfe went higher then we fuppofit, and
Mr Thomas wold find it. We cravit to be informit, if Mr Thomas, or ony,
wer il affe&it to the Kirk, that we myght know it, and joyne with him
in lb good a caufe ; and if not, wifchit him to be wyfe, and not ferve with
his credit other menis malice. He anfwerit ws, that he wold, but that,
be a letter from his Maiefties own hand, fumqhat wes impartit to him
qhich he durft not reveal. So we left inquiring, suppofe that qhich he
maid a fecreit of to ws, he makis it plain ynoughe to otheris ; that his
Maieflie fuld be difcontentit with Mr Thomas, and wil haif him from his
fonne : this Mr Peter Hewat told me, he heard him fay, that he had vnder
his Maiefties own hand. Sir, ye ar wyfe to vfe thefe thingis as ye think
may do your freind good ; nether wold I haif him not to know tham, nor
to think muche of tham, for fik intontionis, if any be, qhen thai ar for-
feit, may be preventit beft ; and this I thocht foner for me to wryt to
yowr felf then to him, to qhom I haif not ben accuftomed to wryt, fup-
pofe I love him intirely, and lies thocht it fo grit happines to ws al, his
cumpany with that younge Prince, as I wold tak it forowfuly, for my
parte, to haif him changit with any other,
I haif written this letter to his Maieftie, qhiche, if ye think gud be
delyverit, ye may clofe it, and delyver to Mr Patrik Hamiltoun, with
this other that I haif written for the fam effect. I earneftly expe6t from
yow fum anfwer for our Jefuit, according to my laft letteris. Taking my
leave, and wifching you al profperitie, I reft
Your affurit euer to his power,
Edinburgh, 6 FebriJ 1615. Glasgow.
Sir,
Ye wilbe fo good as gif thir otheris to James Dowglas, and defyr
him to fend tham to Parife with the firft occafioun. At the clofing of
thefe, the Bifchop of Ilis fonne cam to me, being latly returnit from
Courte, and fchewis that thair is fum bufines amongeft yow thair, as he
422 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1615.
beard, for the difplacing offum of his Maiefties fervantis in bothe cham-
berifl, be tliam intendit that rulis al. It trublit me fumqhat, quhil I
hear from yow. Ye ar wyfe : qhatfocuer it be, I pray yow, let patience
on your parte ovcrcom thair malice, and for no occafioun let his Maieftie
be offendit by yow. This my love lies conftraynit me to wryt, fuppofe
I know it nedis not.
To my very honourabill good freind,
Jhon Murray of Lochmaben, of his
Maiefties bedchamber.
CCLIX— THE BISHOP OF ARGYLE TO KING JAMES.
Most gratious Souerane,
Coniiddering your Maiefties Royall and indeferued fauour in
meeting me to that honorable ellat of Epifcopall focietie within this
Kingdome, far befyd ather thocht or appetite, and inrefpecl; theroff,
thinking not onlie ftill to exorne the place committed vnto me, bot
more and more to interceid at the moft Highe for lenthe and hap-
pines of your Maiefties dayis, it behouethe me, inregaird of bodilie infir-
mitie, to crave pardone, that heirby I hippie that perfonall homage
addebtit to your Maieftie for fo grit benefeit, leaft I fuld feme ather
ignorant or forgetfull, thairby giueing your Maieftie occafione to repent
that gratious munificencie. Heirwithe, it wald pleafe your Sacred Maief-
tie, remember that the pairtis of your Maiefties kingdome committed to
my Spiritual! owerficht being fo barbarous, that without feuer animad-
uerfione, thay can not be cohibite from thair wonted fauage behauiour ;
nattier can this be fo conuenientlie done as by the prefence of the Erie
of Argyll, quha, at my laft affemblie, not only gaue to me, in i'ceret,
exceiding gude proue of his religione, baking the fame with no worl'e
knawledge, bot in publik ail'uris (vnder your Maieftie) to cawfe all obe-
dience be giuen to difcipline, churches to be buldit, and violent detineris
of minifteris gleibis and manfis thairoff difpoffeffed ; in all quhiche, as
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 423
his Lordfhip was required, he did performe. And thairfore, feing it wald
be bothe confortable to my charge and helpfull to his awin decaying
ftate, quhairunto I truft your Maieftie will rather inclyne,1 nor that he
(throw Haying at Court, and neceffitie vrging), becum ane dehonefta-
ment to your Maieftie, this kingdome and honorable place that thair-
unto, bothe be birthe and office, he bruikis. I humlie requeift your
Maieftie, inregairde heiroff, ather to direct him to his awin cuntrie, or
confyne him within the famin.
Craueing pardone for this my boldnes, and committing to Jhoni'
Murray relatione of fum particular anent my felf, and againe befeiking
the Almightie God for your Maiefties happines heir and hence, I ceiffe,
remaneing euer
Your Maiefties moft humill fervand,
Edinburgh, 24 Feb. 1615. An. Lismoken.
To his moft Sacred Maieftie.
CCLX.— THE EAKL OF DUNFERMLINE TO JOHN MURRAY, OF
HIS MAJESTIES BEDCHAMBER.
PtlCHT HONOURABILL CoUSING,
All that I haue to write to yiow is, that wee haue na mater oft'
moment to write off frome this, nor be apeirance wee will haue na
fubiect off aduertifment till the prifonaris from Ila be heir, to be tried
and examinat. We ar fallin upon fuim difcouerie off fuim treacherie in
mater off coine : fuim. villains lies vied to gilt fuim filuer riellis, baith
doubill and nngill, and has geiuin thame out for Spanifh piftolettis,
doubill or nngill. Suim off thame we haif in handis, and, as I hoipe,
1 In a letter from Lord Binning to King James, the necessity of the Earl of Argyle's
repairing to the West Highlands, to repress the rebels, is urgently pressed. (The Met-
ros Papers, vol. i. p. 232.) He was employed in this service ; and in the same collection
of Papers there are numerous letters from or to the Earl of Argyle, giving an account of
his proceedings.
f.M ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1615.
we ar on the way off the triall off that abuife ; albeit, wee have noclit
yitt attained to the full knawledge of thair knawilhe treadde : yee will
heir perhappis mair off this after. The ftorme continewis ftill heir,1
and I think fua thair to, for we gett na worde from thence. Sua,
ending this, wiffis yiow all contentment.
Your louing Coufing to feme yiow,
Frome Edinburgh, 24 of Feb1". 1615. Dunfermeljne.
The Archiebifchoppc St Androis apeirs fuim bettir in his health, and
yitt is thocht fall nocht putt off this feiknes in haill. Glafgow2 is gone
frome this to fee the Jefuift Ogiluie refaue law.
To the Right honourabill my weil-be-
loued Coufing Jhone Murray, in his
Sacred Maiefties bedchalmer.
1 On the 12th of February, apublick fast and humiliation was appointed in Aberdeen.
and probably also in other parts of the country, " in respect of the uncouth storme of
frost and snaw, quhilk lies continewit sa lang, that the bestiall ar dicing thik fauld," &.c.
— (Kirk Session Records, p. 82.)
* Ogilvie suffered at Glasgow, being '• hanged and quartered," on the last of February
10ir>. We may, with little hesitation, ascribe to Spottiswood the Account of the
Jesuit's Trial, which appeared, with a Preface to the Reader, under the following title : —
■ A trur Relation of the Proceedings against Iohn Ogilvie, a Iesuit, executed at Glasgow,
the last of Februarie, Anno Kil .">. Containing sundrie Speeches vttered by him at his
Arraignment, and others, that assisted the Commissioners deputed for his triall : With
all that passed at his execution. Edinburgh, Printed by Andro Hart, Anno 1G15."
4to, pp. 30. It is reprinted in Pitcairn's Criminal Trials, vol. iii. p. 332 — 352.
There was published at Doway another statement, under this title, " Relatio [ncarce-
rationis it Martyrii P. Ioannis Ogilbei natione Scoti, e Socictate Iesu Presbyteri, ex
autographo ipsius Martyris, in carcere exarato Glasgua> in Scotia octiduo ante mor-
ti-ui : continuata vero deincepa per eiusdem coneaptiuos, qui eius Martyrio intcrfuerunt.
Dvm i, Typis Vidurr Laurentii Ktllami, sub signo Agni Pasehalis, 1615,"8vo. This tract
is reprinted in the volume of " Miscellaneous Papers illustrative of the Reigns of Queen
Mary and King James VI.," presented by Andrew Macgcorge, Esq., to the Maitland
Club, Glasgow, 1834, 4to.
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIES. 425
CCLXL— A MISSIVE TO THE AECHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS.
To the Archbishop of St Androis.
Eight reuerend Father in God, righty truily and welbeloued
Counfellour. The Father of this bearer, Mr James Eind, being difeafed
in fuch maner as is not vnknowen to yow,1 became a humble fuitter vnto
Vs, that, in refpecl; his laid Father had left a diftreffed widoue and many
poore children vnprovided for, hee might be admitted to his Father's
place ; that fo he might be a meane to keep his mother, brether, and
fillers from the extremitie of neceffitie : And feing the place which his
Father had is alreadie difpofed of to another, and that the young man
him felf is fufncientlie qualified, fo as if the refpecl; of his mother
and brethren moved him not, hee would not goe out of this coun-
trey, Wee haue therfore thought good to require yow to prefent him
to the firft competent liueing which fhall fall to be vacant in your
province ; which not doubting but yow will performe acccordinglie,
Wee bidd, &c.
Whitehall, the 24 Februar 1615.
CCLXIL— THE BISHOP OF GALLOWAY TO KING JAMES.
Most Gratious Sotteraigne,
Pleafe your Maieflie : The will of your Highnes letters direct to
me of late is fullie obeyed, namelie, concerning your Maiefties fervants,
John Murray and John Gib. The contract betwene my Lord Garlics
and the laft Bifhop wes never perfyted. If according to it I had tran-
facled with his Lordfhip, I fuld haue defrauded twelue Kirkis of all pro-
vifion, which had caufed great defolation in the countrie, and no les
1 Mr Robert Rhind, Minister of Longforgan, whose sudden death is recorded in a
passage quoted at page 404, note 1.
3h
420 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1615.
difcontentment to your Higlincs. Now my Lord lies, in reafonable
manner, prouyded the Kirkis, and I haue fatiffeit his Lordfhip.
The relicl of my pradeceffor wes paied of the greateft part of that
dewtic your Maieftie appointed for her, before her complaint, as wes
cleared by her owne acquittances produced before the Right Honorable
Lordis of your Highnes Counfcll. There wes no caus to complainc. I
dar fay to your Maieftie, on my confeience, I had neuer a thoght to
defraud her of one pennie, for I know or it be long I muft lcaue myne
vnder the lyke compaffion. Alwaic I randre your Highnes molt humble
thankis that your Maieftie reflaued not the accufation againft me, bot
remitted it vnto tryall ; and will earneftlie, and with all fubmifnon,
crane, that fen it hes bene your Highnes favorable will to put me in ane
eminent place, wherein it is impoffible to line and pleafe all parties, your
Maieftie, after your wonted clemencie and princelie equitie, wold it ill
referue ane care for me. Say what they will, my workis fhalbe witnefles
for me : The planting of Preachers, the building of Kirks where neuer
one hes bene, the repairing of others, fhall teftifie for me, that, after my
weaknes, my cair hes bene to do the work of a Bifhop there, to the
glorie of God, your Highnes honor, and good of the countrey. If I haue
fpoken beyond modeftie, fen it is within the compaffe of truth, yo\ir
Maieftie will gratiouflie pardon it.
Concerning the Chappel Royal, I attend the declaration of your
Highnes will. My greateft comfort is in preaching; neither is there
ony thing more vnpleafant to me then to be ydle, for it ftaineth the
dignitie of our calling, and corrupteth our felues. Some tyme we teach
in the pulpitts of Edinburgh, not without good fuccefie (praife be to the
Lord :) The prtecifeft of them who ar contrair mynded difdainc not our
miniftrie, bot flockes als frequentlie to heare as of before they haue done
to ony. Bot I long till your Maieftie putt me in my owne place.
Expecting your Highnes will, I reft
Your Maiefties moft humble and mony waies
bound feruant and dailie oratour,
Edinburgh, Merch 7. 1615. \V. B. of Galloway.
To the King his moft Excellent Maieftie.
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 427
CCLXIIL— A MISSIVE TO THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL AND THE
SENATORS OF THE COLLEGE OF JUSTICE.
To the Counsell and Colledge of Justice.
Right, &c. Whereas We haue vnderftoode that there are
fundrie rents and commodities due to Patrick Bifhop of Roffe, by his
prouifion to the faid Bifhoprick, vnjuftle detayned from him, as hee
alledges, for the recovering whereof he is conftrained to fue his partyes
before yow, whereby, befids his great paynes and charges, he is dif-
tracled from attending his calling in the Chivrche,1 far from Our inten-
tion, who would haue him peaceablie to enjoy the benefite of that which
Wee haue beftowed vpon him, that he may be the more able to attend
his charge : Therfor Our pleafure is, that, in all fuch actions as con-
cerne him in this kind, yow adminifter juftice with as fpeedie a difpatche
as the courfe of Our lawes can conveniently permit. Wherein ex-
peeling the vttermoft of your endeauours, Wee, &c.
Newmarkett, the 15 of March 1615.
Direction to the Colledge of Justice, —
To Our right truftie and right welbeloued Cofen and
Counfellour, the Earle of Dunfermeling, Our Chan-
cellour, and to the remanent Senatouris of Our Col-
ledge of Juftice of Our Kingdome of Scotland.
Direction to the Counsell, —
To Our right trufty and right welbeloued Cofen and
Counfellour, the Earle of Dumfermeling, Our Chan-
cellour of Scotland, and to Our right trufty and wel-
beloued Counfellours, the remanent Lords of Our
Privie Counfell of the faid Kingdome.
1 Mr Patrick Lindesay continued as Minister of St Vigeans, near Aberbrothock, after
his promotion to the See of Ross.
428 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1615.
CCLXIV.— THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO KING JAMES.
Most Gkatious Soverane,
I muft entreat your Maieltie molt humblle for pardon, that 1
have delayed the anfuer of your Maiefties letter anent the Erie of
Home, be reafon of my great ficknes, which God lies now relentit.1
And firft, whairas I informed your Maieftie that he being conveinit
befor your Maiefties Hie Commiffioun, was, efter lang tergiverfatioun,
forced to profefs himfelff not to be refoluit to be of our religioun. It is
verie true, for efter that he wes eallit we could tak no hold of him. In
end, he was finned in ane thoufand punds, according to the Act of Par-
liament, and vit to be fred thairof vpon conditioun that he fould prefentlie
declair himfelff to be owris in religioun, and wald acknowledge us to be
the true Kirk ; which, efter he had refilled, the Lords ordaneit him to
be confinned in his owne houffes, and that was the only caufe of his
confining ; for if he had fchowin any incline of conformitie with ws, we
had never ufed him fo, and this I tak in hand to proove, per testes otnni
exceptione maiores. As to his communicating, he can not deny bot I
dealt with him my felff the fpace of two yeiris to that effedt. He fchew
that it was not for caufe of religioun that he abfteinit, bot for fum uther
worldlie fcruples. Thir generall excufes delayit me the fpace of two
yeiris to vfe any proces againft him ; bot finding all bot fchiftis, I
returnit bak that mater agane to the Synod, who diredtit the Exerceis
of Dunbar to proceid in the cenfures of the Kirk againft him. And
yit. to niak him inexcufablc, we direclit to him fum foure of the Minif-
teris of that bounds, that was molt gratious to him, and yit they land
nothing but lingering, and fair wordis tending to delay. Anent the
I'chortnes of tyme to advife and rcfolve, he lies gottin more than fyve
yeiris admonitions and requifitions, which fall be verefied be writ and
witnelfes. As touching his cuming to me at St Androis, at that tyme,
1 This, however, proved to be only a temporary amendment, as the Archbishop, George
Gladstones, died at St Andrews on the 2d of May, or within four weeks of the date of
this letter. See No. CCLXIX.
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIES. 429
I fchaw him plainlie, that I wald nather give him tolleratioun nor delay,
bot advifed him to obey your Maiefties proclamatioun. Bot, Sir, what
neidis all thofe circumftances ? If he will come home, and fwear, and
fubfcryve to the true religion, and tak a reafonable long day to commu-
nicate, all thir queftions fall ceafe, and fo he fall not importune your
Maieftie any longer, for he knawis himfelff that I love him and his
houfs. Alwayis, Sir, I have writtin to your Maieftie that which I will
byd at, bot I had rather have his conformitie than his conteftatioun,
and I wifli to God he fould beguile me. Thus I befeech God to bliffe
your Maieftie with ane long and profperous lyff, and with all happines
heir and eternallie. I reft
Your Maiefteis moft humble fubie6t and faithfull fervand,
Sanctandrois.
St Androis Caftle, 7 Aprill 1615.
CCLXV.— SIR GIDEON MURRAY AND SIR ALEXANDER HAY TO
KXNG JAMES.
Moste Gracious Souerane,
Your Maiefties letter from Royftoun, the 21 of Marche, dire6t
vnto ws, wes delyvered by Mr Patrick Hamiltoun, wherein your Maief-
tie defyreth to be certified from ws, who wer prefent at the High Com-
miffioun the tyme when the Erie of Home1 wes convented befoir the
fame, vpoun what reafonis his confyining procedit, and what ather wes
of him requyired, or by him at that tyme anfuered, togither with the
1 Alexander sixth Lord Home, as a Roman Catholic, to be absolved from the sentence
of excommunication passed by the Synod of Fife, made his repentance before the Gene-
ral Assembly on his knees, 17th May 1594. He accompanied King James to England
in 1603, and was created Earl of Home, 4th March 1605. In the General Assembly,
11th December 1606, when measures were taken " for the suppressing and reforming
of Papists," among the Noblemen suspected of Papistrie, who were ordained to be con-
fined in various parts of the country, the Earl of Home and Lord Heries were confined
within the town of Edinburgh. The Earl of Home died 5th April 1619.
430 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1615.
whole particularities and circumftances of that bui'ynes ; Wherein we
mult firft huinblye beg your Maieflies pardoun, that we can not give
your Highnes that full fatiffactioun in the mater whiche otherwayes we
eulde wilhc (there haveing interveined fince that dyett fo longe a
fpaice), and the mater it felf, while it wes in handling, being the more
cairleflye attendit vnto by ws in remarking every worde of conference
whiche paft betuix the Archbifliope and the Erie, as never thinking
the mater fuld haif bein thereefter queftioned. Bot fo far as our
memoryes do ferve of that whiche paft at that tyme, we haif heir fett it
doun.
The Erie of Home being called in befoir the Archbifliope, ther being
alio at that tyme prefent fome Prelattis, and fundrye other churchmen
nominate in the Commiffioun, he wes demandit, "Wherfore he had not
communicated ? and therewith it wes tolde him, how by a fentence
alreddy gevin by the High Commiffioun, he wes declared to haif incurred
the payne of the Statute aganis non-communicantis. He anfuered,
That he had therein ftill his fcrupidles and doubtes, whereof he wes
unrelolued, fo as he durft not adventure to fo holye ane a&ioun vntill
he wer better relblued, wherevpoun he wes confyined betuix his houffes
of Dunglas and Home ; and fome wer appoynted to confer with him,
and a day affigned betuix and whiche he fuld refolue vpoun fuche
headis and poyntes of religioun whereof he then doubted. And it
being vrged by fome who wer then prefent, that the fyine whiche
the Erie had incurred through not communicating fuld be pre-
fentlye exacted, it wes by otheris, and fpecially thofe of your Maief-
ties Counfell who wer then prefent, thoght more expedient that all
goode meanis fuld be vfed for induceing rather the Nobleman to a
eonformitye, then that he fuld conceave that his conventing befoir
the High Commiffioun wes onlye for to gayne the penaltye and
fyine by him incurred. Bot whither the Erie wes then vrged to
fubferyve and fweare the Confeffioun of Faithe, we proteft to your
Maieftyc that we do remember of no fuche thing. And this being
the furdeft that we can call to memorye of any thing whiche wes
done publicklye befoir the High Commiffioun, the Erie him felf
haveing bad fundrye tymes reforte to the Archbilhopis lodgeing, of
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 431
whois privat conference together we ar altogither ignorant : We hum-
blye kifs your Highnes facred hand, praying Almightye God to blifs
your Maieftie with a longe, happy, and profperous reigne over ws, and
fo reft
Your Maiefties moft humble, devoted,
and faithfull fervitouris,
G. Murray. Alexk. Hay.
CCLXVI.— A MISSIVE TO THE MARQUESS OF HUNTLEY.
To the Marquisse of Huntly.
Right trufty and welbeloued Cofen and Counfellour, &c.
Whereas vpon a complaint made vnto Vs by Jhon Leyth of Harthill
vpon George Lefley of Oldcraig, for the flauchter of his fonne,1 Wee
were pleafed to write vnto yow, as Sheriff of that parte, for appre-
hending the laid George, who remaynes a Rebell at our borne, yet Wee
are informed that notwithftanding of this he haunts ordinarely the
bounds within your charge, and is not as yet apprehended : Therefore
Wee command yow, as yow would continue Sheriff, to faile not to doe
the duetie that belongs to the place, and apprehend the faid George,
that he may be prefented to Juftice, otherwife Wee will think that yow
neglect Our feruice ; and if, in the meane tyme, Jhon Leyth, or any of
his, be hurt in their perfon or goods by the faid George, who, as Wee
heare, threatens them, Wee will blame yow as accefforie therevnto, by
omitting your charge, whereanent Wee defire to be certefied bak from
your fehT. So, hopeing that yow will haue a more regard to Our fer-
uice, Wee bidd yow farewell.
Whitehall, the 11 of Aprill 1615.
1 Two letters relating to this murder are given in this series, as Nos. CCXXX. and
CCXXXI. It does not appear that Lesley was brought to trial.
432 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1615.
CCLXVII.— THE EARL OF CAITHNES TO KING JAMES.
Please your most Sacred Maiestie,
Your letter was dclifred to the Metrapoletane, quho fend the
famine to the Preftxetrie, in refpecl; that his Lordfhip was heuelie dif-
eil'ed. and could not fpeik withe thame him felfe. The fauoure that my
wyffe1 lies refaued neuer the leffe, off your Maiefties letter, is exftre-
mettie, and will fchaw no fauoure, hot to go forduard vithe Excommu-
nicatioune the nixt Sunday agancft hir. Thairfoir, I will moil humblie
intret your Maicftie, that of yom* moil admirabille wifdome and fauoure,
that it uill pleafe your Maieftie to derecl the Archebofchop off Glafco to
derect the Miniftrie of Edinburgh to continow hir to the Buffchop off
Orknay haiue laiffoure to deille with hir, and to that tyme I fchall tak
wpone me, onder no lafe nor the lofle off your Maiefteis kyndnes, and
before I parreld that, I [had] rather be bouirreid quik, that fcho fall
nather relet, intercommoune vith enny of that profeffioune, all the tyme
off remaning heir, to God and tyme moue hir to be refolued in the con-
fcrar. Giue it wald pleafe your Maieftie to dei'eel tuo lynis from your
Maieftie to hir, to hit hir kno your Maiefteis auine counfell and wille, I
am refolued that will moue hir more nor all the perfuatiouns in the
world. Sua to your Maiefteis wifdome I humblie craiue pardoune off
my hemlines, I reft, wifhing from aboue all happines and contentment
to your Maieftie, and I fchall eucr remane
Your Maiefteis moft houmbille and
obedient feruand to the death,
Caithness.
Edinburgh, 27 Apryille 1615.
To his inoft Sacared Maieftie.
1 Lady Jean Gordon, only daughter of George f>th Earl of Huntley.
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 433
CCLXVHL— THE EARL OF DUNFERMLINE TO [LORD FENTOUN.]'
Maist Honourabill good Lord,
I write this to informe yiour Lordfhip off ane extraordinar riott
fallin out in this pairtis off late, to be imparted by yiow to his Sacred
Maieftie ; that, be his Heighnes heigh wifdome, the Counfall may haue
direclioun quhow far to proceid in the correciioun off the fame. On the
laft Setterday, before Paife, the Queens Maiefties officiar off Domferme-
ling was direel;, be hir Maiefties Chalmerlane, to execute preceptis off
warning to remoue, upon the toun off Bruntiland, according to com-
moun ordour ; quhilk was to byde the awin commoun courfe in law
after, before the Seffioun, and was na wayis intendit to be ufed or exe-
cute to ony rigour ; alwayis, vpon fuim vane and proude prefumptioun,
fuim peopill off that toun was fteired vp to refill this warning be force
and violence, quhilk was neiuer done yit to the meineft fubject in this
countrie. Sua, quhen the officiar was executing this preceptis of warn-
ing, quhilk war ondir baith thair Maiefties handis and fignes, be the
cafchiettis we haue heir to that effect, and thairwith alio lettirs ondir
his Maieftie figned for this fame puirpois ; the officiar, at the corfe of
the toun and other pairtis, being in executioun of his office, is, be ane
multitude off weemen, aboue ane hundir, off the bangftar Amafone
kinde, maift oncourteflie doung off his feitt, and his witnes with him,
thay all hurt and bluidit, all his lettirs and preceptis reft fra him, reiuin
and caften away, and fwa chaffed and ftaned out off the toun. This
done (clara luce), leitill before none, the peopill behalding, fuim magif-
tratis as is prouin be fuim witnes going on the ftreetis befide ; the
bailzies awin wyff principall leidar off this tumultuous armie of Ama-
fones, na man could efteeme bot a premeditat deuyfe and plott laid
1 Sir Thomas Erskine, second son of Sir Alexander Erskine of Gogar, was educated
along with King James, and had a principal share in the somewhat mysterious and
very tragical fate of the Gowrye family, 5th August 1600. He was created Viscount of
Fentoun, 18th May 1606, but is better known by his subsequent title as Earl of Kellie,
to which dignity he was advanced in March 1619.
3i
434 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1615.
doune, be policic and craft off men. Thairfore the Counfall, for exact
tritll of fie ane infolencc, called to thair iudgement a guid number of
the maift factious of thefe weemen, be the officiars informatioun, and
alfo the Magiftratis and Counfall off the toun, and fuim other honefl
witnes. The day off this triell was the 26 Aprile, all compeired. The
fact neidit no probatioun ; it was granted be the weemen, and fuim
mennis prefence prouin be findrie honeft witnes. The greateft diffi-
coltie was in the triell of the mennis advyfe, and hunting out off the
weemen ; to this mifbehauiour, albeit it could na otherwayis be, was
be thaine ablblutelie denied and manfworne. Neuerthelefs, be guid
triell was fufficientlie prouin, the Magiftratis off the toun, mony
fpeciall off the Counfall and greateft reulars, at this prefent, off
that toun, to haue bein off the foreknowledge and aduyfe off this
infblence committed be the weemen, and in end is granted be thame
Iritis. •
In this triell and proceiding thairoff, fallis out, that be examinatioun
oil' all was participant to the fact, it is conftantlie deponed that Maifter
Williame "NVatfoun, minifler off that toun, and quha indeid has bein prin-
cipall reular of that toun this lang tyme, was participant to the foreknaw-
ledge and aduyfe to this infolente deid ; quhairfore was thocht meit, and
refolued be the Counfall, he fould be fummond and examinat heirupon,
the 28 off the fame moneth ; quhilk day he compered. Lordis of Coun-
fall was ahnoft all away, nane prefent with me bot my Lord Erie of Cath-
nes, Lord Prefident, Lord Aduocat, and Sir Robert Meluill yioungar off
Bruntiland. Wee examinat him in the heft and maift conuenient forme
and tennis we could : Firft, he denyia onye foreknawledgc at all off that
purpois, or onye intentioun to the like ; alwayis in end, preiffed be cir-
cumftancifl and confrontatioun with others, quha had granted and con-
trll the fame (wee being alwayis refolued to decerne him as conuict), he
cumis to conf'effioun and acknawledgement off his offence and ouirficht,
dcclaris and profefiis a greate remorfe, to haue blotted his calling and
vocatioun, in being onye wayis participant, and nocht refilling to that
fact ; requiris us to ufe that als moderatlie as wee could, in regaird off his
tiiiutionii, as vie will perfaue be the recorde off Counfall I fend yiow
heirwith, ondii the clerks hand, off that mater. This fua proceidit, wee
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 435
tlioght nocht expedient, in refpect of his calling and vocatioun, and
reuerence wee beir thairto, to proceid farder; we commandit him to
wairde within the toun of Edinbrough, till farder refolutioun fould be
tane with him ; difchairging him alwayis preaching, and reforte to Pref-
biterie, Seffioun off the Kirk, or onye other exercife nor preachings and
prayers ordinar in the toun. Sua, wee continewed all farder till the
nixt frequent meiting of the Counfall, quhilk will nocht be before 17
May. TVee prefentlie wardit findrie fpecialls of Bruntiland, fuim in the
toubuith, and fuim in the toun. The Counfall will tak, God willing,
fufficient ordour with all the reft. It is expedient and neceffair wee be
fupplied, be the beamis off his Maiefties prencelie wifdome, in directing
us, quhat ordour wee fall tak with Maifter Williame Watfone, quhilk
may be ather be his Maiefties lettir to the haill Counfall, or gef his
Maieftie will command yiow write to me quhat is his facred mynde, I
fall be cairfull the fame be obeyed ; and off this I requyre to haue fuim
anfuer fra yiow, fa fone as yie may, war meit, if poffibill war, wee fould
haue it before the 15 or 16 off May.
Suim thing yiour Lordfliip has writtin to me, 19 Aprile, be his Maief-
ties command, anent fuim examinatioun off George Grahame, quha pro-
cuired the releiff of Bifchop lies fonne, and Ramfurlie, frome the rebellis
off Ha. I haue writtin Ling fence to his Maieftie, in ane lettir off my
awin, quhilk was deliuered be Jhone Murray, all my entrefs and pant in
that mannis proceidings, and all that was betuix him and me, and farder
will neiuer be found off me in treuth ; quhairin I think I did als guid
feruice for his Maiefties bonour, and countries, as euer I could be habill
to doe. The faid George Grahame had neiuer farder warrand off me,
worde nor write, bot my naked promeis off ane thoufand marks to him
felf, be my worde, in caice he releiued fafelie the twa prifonars. I think
he fall neiuer fay farder. If he fay, I fall proue him fals ; if he hes gone
onye farder, it lies bein on his awin, or fuim other mannis warrand nor
myne ; latt him and thame anfuir thairfore, on thair parrell. I think,
certanelie, I haue mair cauefe to rejoice and glore in all I did in that,
nor reu the fame ; and fua I perfuade myfelf his Sacred Maieftie thinkis
alfo of me, quhateiuer onye could fay or mantein in the contrair : I fall
eiuer be cairfull off his Maiefties honour and guid feruice, en despit des
436 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1615.
enuieuh. Nocht hauing farder, for the prefent, bot to wifh yiow all
happinea and contentement, reftis
Your Lordfhip's niaifl affectionat to ferue yiow,
DuNFERMELJNE.'
Frorao Edinburgh, ultimo Aprilis 1615.
In cace it micht feeme I am too fpairing in wryting fa nakedlie oft'
this purpois anent Maifter Williame Watfoun, and nocht difcharging
the deutie off ane honeft Counfalour and officiar, in declaring my awin
aduyfe ; for that yie fall haue this, quhilk alwayis I fubmitt hallie, and in
all humilitie and affectioun, to his moift gracious Maiefties cenfure and
bettir iudgement. Sould be meit, his Maieftie foidd declair this to be
his prencelie will, in his Royall mercie; albeit this offenfe be extraor-
dinar and fuperlatef, in a man off that calling ; neuerthelefs, for refpect
to his lang feruice in fa honorabill a functioun off Goddis minifterie,
quhilk hcigheft Prencis, and wee all fould fa reuerence, the punifhment
to proceid na farder, bot in directioun to the Archiebifchioppe, his ordi-
nar, to fufpend him hallie for certane fpace, fra all ufe off his calling, in
onye pairt ; declair him onfitt to be a Minifter, in fa frequent and public
a place, and, in the meane tyme, prouide him to the minifterie in fuim
other mair priuat and reteired pairt off the countrie ; ~ and ordeine that
Toun to be prouidit off fuim Minifter off mair cahne pairt, to reule and
circumcide fie haitt humours as may be in that peopill.
1 The address to this letter is not preserved, but the following passage, in another letter
of the Lord Chancellor's to John Murray, on the same day, settles the point : — " Thair
is off late ane riott fallin out, be deforcement and misusing ane officiar off the Queenis
Maiestie, be the weenien off the Brunt Hand, be niennis advyse, quhairwith I will nocht
trubill yiow, because I have tcrittin the same at lenth to my Lord Fentoun, to be imparted
to his Maiestie. The Counsall has diligentlie and cairfullie tried the progrcsse and
.'round off that extraordinar insolence, as yie will onderstand."
! This recommendation seems to have been acted upon, as Watson was removed to
Markinch, in March 101G, to supply the place of Mr John Mitchelson, who had been trans-
lated from Markinch to Burntisland, when Watson was suspended from his ministry.
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 437
CCLXIX THE BISHOP OF CATHNES TO SIR ROBERT CAR.
Rycht Honorabill Sib,
Pleis youe wit ray Lord of Sanctandrous ' depairted this lyf the
fecounde of this inftant. And feinge the prouifione of his place muft
cary ane alteratione of diuers of the Prelatis of this kingdome, I wil
intreat you to fignifie to my Lord Chamerleine the famine, and thair-
vithe to advys his Lordfchip that matur deliberatione be takine that his
Maieftie may mak chois of thes that ar belt effectit to the glorie of God
and his Hienes feruice ; and that his Lordfchip may find better corref-
pondence of our churchmene then of befor, feinge we haue that honour to
haue his Lordfchip wnder his Maieftie, our louinge patrone. In fo doinge,
his Lordfchip may inable his agent for his freindis heir, and alfo prefer
any fauorit that his Lordfchip findis qualefiet for fuche ane roume.
I haue ane meitinge with my Lord of Anguis about the 15 of this in-
ftant, Godvillinge, and fal acquant youe immediatlie heirefter of our pro-
ceidings anent the effairis of the hous of Ferniherft in particular. If ye
wald haue guid fucces, cans order to be giuine to my Lord of Glafgoue
that the Preift Mouffat be keip clos quhair he is til he be re-examined
be me and the Bifchop of Glafgoue ; and fiklyk caus comand the
Archedane of Santandrous, quho is now at Court with youe, that he
keip and exhibet the threi fpecial miffiues, withe al wtheris intelli-
gences, that he fand with him at his firft apprehenfione. Thus my
louinge diuitie rememberit, I comit youe to the grace of God, and
reftis,
Your louinge Brother, to be imployet at pouer,
A. B. Cathnes.
At Montros, the 3 of Maij [1615].
1 Archbishop Gladstanes died on the 2d May. The King defrayed the expense of his
funeral, which took place on the 7th June ; " and yet (says Calderwood) the corps was
not in the coffin, but buried soone after his death." — (History, vol. vii. p. 200.)
438 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1615.
Eftcr my Lord Chamerlein lies fein this letter, lett it be fein no
more.
To the Richt Honorabill Sir Robert Car,1 gentil-
mane of the Prince his bedchalmer.
CCLXX.— A MISSIVE TO THE ARCHBISHOP OF GLASGOW, AND OTHER
BISHOPS.
To the Archbishop of Glasgow, and remanent Bishopes.
Right Reuerend Father in God, Reuerend Fathers in God, and
others, Our welbcloued Prelats, &c. Whereas it is complained vnto Vs
by Mr Alexr. Innes, Minifter,2 fhoweing how hee hath beene exceedinglic
wronged by the Bifhope of Murray, being both deprived by him of his
benefice, which hee had acquired with difficultie, and whereby he -mould
banc liued, and being likewife perfued of his life, and kept in continuall
trouble, by his meanes ; a thing which Wee would haue thought Ihould
neuer haue beene committed by any of your nomber, whofe powers
ihould protect men from the injuries of others : Therfor Our pleafure
is, that after exact triall of this mater, yow caufe repaire the faid com-
plenar, fatiffeing him for the damage and fkayth which hee hath
fuflained by meanes of the faid Bilhop, that Wee be no more troubled
with his complaint, the fcandale that arrifes from fuch an enormitie
being removed, whereof yow fhall do Vs acceptable feruice. Greene wich,
the 26 of May 1615.
To the Right Reuerend Father in God, the Archbifhop
of Glafco, one of his Ma,eis inoft Honoble Privie Coun-
i'ell of Our Kingdome of Scotland, and to the re-
manent llifhopcs of that Our Kingdome.
1 Sir Robert Car. or Kerr, of Ancrum, who was raised to the Peerage as Earl of
Ancrum in July 1C33.
* Minister of Kenedar, or Kynedward, in the province of Murray, 1C15 to 1624.
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 439
CCLXXL— LORD SPYNEE TO KING JAMES.
Most Sacred Soverayne,
May it pleas your Sacred Maieftie be inforinit, that Alexander,
prefent Bifchop of Murray, being adebtit to me in the fowme of ten
thowfand rnerkis money of this your Maiefties realme, contenit in his
band maid to Maifter David Symmer, merchand in Edinburgh (whois
name being onlie borrowit thairunto), affignatioun of the famyne by him
ves maid to me at the verie tyme of the granting of the laid Band, long
befoir my Fatheris deceafe, and fum certane proportioun of that fowme
being payit be the faid Bilchop to my wmquhill Father in his awin
tyme. It is verie weill knawin wnto your Sacred Maieftie, that my wm-
quhill Father, who wes your Maiefties awin fervitour, and whois eftait
and whatfoeuer ellis he haid in this world wes by your Maieftie, out of
your Hienes princelie fauour, railed and maid vp wnto him, wes verie
cruellie killed and murthored,1 and 1 left deftitute of him ; throw occa-
fioun of whiche vnhappie accident, that puir and meane eftaite whairvnto
I wes to fucceid wes lb fchackin and ruinated, as no hoip at all wes, or
as yit is, left to me for helping the famyne. And I haiuing betakine my
felf to follow the cours of vertew at the fchooles, and for the betterring
of me and the littill meane eftaite whiche I now hold of your Maieftie,
aclioun being mouit againes the Bifchop for recouerie from him of
fuche proportioun of the faid fowme as reftit vnpayit at the deceas of
my Father. Your Maieftie hathe beine pleafit, vpoun fum confidera-
tiounes, by your Hienes warrandis direct vnto the Lordis of your
Maiefties Seffioun, to will and requyir tham to delay the granting of
proces at my inftance in this mater againes him, altho it be moft conftant
and apparent that, if your Maieftie haid trewhe beine informed that
the Band forfaid haid bene lawfuUie gevin (as it wes indeiu) be the faid
Bifchop for caufis onerous, and he enterit in payment of fume fuche
1 Sir Alexander Lindesay, a younger son of the Earl of Crawfurd, was raised to the
Peerage as Lord Spynie. As already noticed (p. 19o), he was slain, in July 1607.
440 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1615.
proportioun of the fowmes thairin contenit as wer dew to be payit
befoir my Fatlicris deccas, your Maioflie wald haive beine the more
loathe, vpon the faid Bifchopc his finifter informatioun,1 to haif direclit
ony fuehe warrand as micht haif taine from me the commoun benefiet
of your Maiefties law dew to all your Hicnes fubieclis ; efpeciallie feing
both the equitie of this caus, and als that princelie regaird and heich
fauour which your Hienes fo lairgehe bellowed vpoun my faid umquhill
Father, and which alfo, I hoip, vpoun his rememberance, fall not be
inlaiking to me. Requyris that your Maieftie may fo far furth be
pleafit to confider this mater, and vtherwayes the hard eftaite I was left
into, as the commoun cours of your Maiefties law be not denyit vnto me :
And thairfor, in all humilitie, I intreat and moft earneftlie beg at your
Sacred Maiefties hand, that your Maieftie wald be weill pleafit to
returnc your Hienes warrand for granting to me proces in the mater
forfaid, conforme to your Maiefties lawis and cuftome of this realme ;
and farder, that your Maieftie wald fignefie vnto your Counfall and
Seflioun heir ony fuche farder proportioun of your Maiefties princelie
fauour as your Hienes fall be weill pleafit to beftow on me, and all my
lauchfull a&iounes occurring afoir thame, fua as juftice accordinglie may
be miniftrat vnto me. And praying God for a long and happie regne
to your Maieftie, with eternall felicitie heirefter, I reft,
Your Maiefties moft humble and obedient
fubiect and feruitour,
Spynie.
At Sanelandrois,
the 26 day of Maij 1615.
Tp the Kingis moft Excellent Maieftie.
1 As the letters of the Bishop of Murray, Nos. CLXXL, CLXXXIX., and CXC, also
No. CXCI., on the subject of this disputed claim, have no dates, they probably should
have been placed more immediately in connection with this and the following letter. A
subsequent letter from the Bishop will be given under its date, 28th December 1C15.
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 441
CCLXXII.— THE EARLS OF MORTON AND KTNGHORN TO KING
JAMES.
Most Gratious and Sacred Soverayne,
Pleas your Sacred Maieftie be informit, That wmquliill Alexander
Lord of Spynie, your Maiefties awin feruitour, for weghtie and onerous
cauffes, reffauing band and obligatioun from this prefent Bifchop of
Murray in the borrowit name of Mr David Symnier, merchand in Edin-
burgh, containing the fowm of ten thowfand merkis money of this your
Maiefties kingdome, to haif beine payit at ten feuerall termes immedi-
atelie thairefter following, and at the tyme of the granting of this Band,
affignatioun thereof being maid to this young gentleman, who is now
Lord of Spynie, intimatioun thairvpoun at that fame verie tyme wes
als ordourlie and dewlie maid and intimat to the Bifchope, granter of
the Band forfaid (who verie frielie and lauchfullie, of his awin confent
and knawledge, for cauffes onerous, gaiwe the Band forfaid, as faid is.)
Thairefter, it happining fo to fall furth, that the laid leat Lord of
Spynie wes, at the pleafur of God, vpon fuddant taine away, the laid
Bifchop takand advantage of the tyme and occafioun offerit, by fum
indirect meanis, procurit the Affignatioun forfaid of the Band aboue
writtin to be delyuerit to him, and, in the Minoris preiudice, to be
diftroyit and cancellat : And aetioun thairupon, by this Minor, with con-
fent of ws, his Curatours, being mouit againes the faid Bifchope, for
preving the tenour of this away convoyed and cancellat affignatioun,
efter long proces, in end decreit is gewin in fauouris of the faid Minor.
And quhairas your Sacred Maieftie, by your Hienes gratious letter
direclit wnto ws befoir the geving of the decreit forfaid, willit and
defyrit that the mater forfaid fould not be profequute by ws ; we, in all
humilitie, acknawledging your Maiefties moft princelie diredioun in that
poynt, at verie great lenth, by our letter wnder our handis, proponit
vnto your Sacred Maieftie the trew reafounes and iuft caufes why we
wer not abill (being onlie Curatouris to this Minor) to ftay him from
feeking the coiumoun benefeit of your Maiefties lawis. Quhilk letter,
3k
442 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1615.
now perfavlng hath not cum to your Maiefties hand, in fo far as by
your Maiefties letter warrand vnto your Hienes Chancelar, it is mani-
fefted vnto wb that the executioun of the decreit forfaid fould be
delayit; we thairfoir, in all humilitie, fchaw and declair vnto your Sacred
Maieftie, that howfoever our former letter wes mifcaried, and com not
to your Hienes hand, yet we wer ewer willing, and moft reddie, accord-
ing to the trew meaning of our faid former letter, to haif gewin our
efauld and wpright concurrance to the faid Minor, as Curatouris to
him, for the full fatleing of this mater, in fo far as we could or might
haif done by our office of Curatorie, and as might haif gewin vnto your
Maieftie all contentment and fatiffactioun thairintill. Bot now, the
Minour hailing reflauit decreit efter long proces, we know not how, in
his lcs aige, he may ather lauchfullie difchairge the famyne, or yit be
hurt and damnified thairintill. And wheras the Bifchope hath informed
your Sacred Maieftie that the Band forfaid was extortit from him, Pleas
your Maieftie, it is not vnknawin that the faid Bifchope wes both of
found witt and guid iudgment, and could haif verie weill and aduifedlie
maid and fett doun his awin bargane, and wald never haif bene movit
to haif yeildit the faid Band botvpon weightie refpectis tending alwayes
to his awin particular profeite and commodetie ; lyk as, it can not be
denyit be the faid Bifchope bot fum two or one of the feuerall termee
payment of the fowme forfaid wes by him verie thankfullie payit in the
leat Lord of Spynic his tynie. And fo now, with reafoun, efter the faid
Lordis deceas, the faid Bifchop might not haif lauchfullie difcontinewed
the remanent termes payment of the fowme forfaid. And howfoever
your Maieftie is wtherwayes informed by the Bifchop in this mater, yit
we doubt not bot your Maieftie, oute of your Hienes awin moft princelie
refpecT; toward the Minor of this defunct, your Maiefties awin feruitour
in his tyme, will be gratiouflie pleafit to fuffer the laid Decreit reffaiwe
dew executioun againes the faid Bifchope, conforme to the tenour
thairof and lawis of your Maiefties realme. And thairwithall will giwe
ordour for returning vnto your Maiefties Counfall and Seffioun heir your
Hienes warrand for granting proces to the faid Minor in this mater,
according to the ordinarie and common cours of law and juftice. And
fo, humblie begging pardoun for this our prcfumptioun, and hairtelie
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 443
praying God for a long and a profperous regne heir, and eternall feli-
citie heirefter in the heawins to your Sacred Maieftie, we reft
Your Maiefties rnoft humble and obedient
fubiectis and feruitouris.
Morton. Kingorne.1
Glames, 28 Maij 1615.
To the Kingis moft Excellent Maieftie.
CCLXXHI.— A MISSIVE TO THE EARL OF DUNFERMLINE.
To the Chancellour.
Right, &c, Whereas Wee haue procured a fubmiffion betweene
the Archbifhop of Glafgow and the Earle of Glencairne of all maters
belongeing to the Abbacie of Kylwyning, that tbey may be fetled in
fuch fort that no ground be left for any queftion to arrife betweene the
names of Montgomeries and Cuninghames. Wee haue written to the
Earle of Eglinton to concurre in that courfe in all that fhalbe thought
expedient for his point, and fpeciallie that hee fatiffie the Laird of
Ackett for his right and kyndneffe of the tythes for the Church of
Dunlope, or for any parte thereof that fhalbe taken from him, fuffpend-
ing, in the meane tyme, all purfute of him by law till order be taken
therwith in a freindlie maner. Therfor Our pleafure is, that yow vfe
your belt meanes for effecluateing this purpofe, both in perfwadeing
your coufen to that which reafon requires, and to all other things that
may tend to the furtherance heereof, as a mater which Wee fpeciallie
affect, and wherein yow fhall doe Vs very acceptable feruice. Wee
bidd, &c.
Greenwich, the 10th of June 1615.
1 Patrick ninth Lord Glanies, in July 1606 was created Earl of Kinghorn. He died
in December 1615. It may be added, that the younger Lord Spynie, in whose favour
this letter was written, was the Earl's nephew.
444 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1015.
CCLXXIV.— THE EARL OF EGLINTOUN TO KING JAMES.
M U8T Sacred Soueraine,
Your muiit gracious and princclic letter of the tent Junij,1 con-
cerning the Laird Aikett2 his fatiffactioun, for anye entres he had in anye
teyndis of the Kirk of Dunloppe, came laitlie to me, at the Erie of Glen-
cairne his hayme dimming, and this is the firft occafioun I haue had, to
male anfuere thair toe. As your Highnes Royall wifdome and admirabill
dexteritie in taking away all diuifiouns, and reconceilling all deidlic
feiddfl, betuix your fubiecls in this Kingdome, and great prouidence to
manteyne all peace, amitie, and concord in this Eftaitt, is commenditt
he the haill warld, amongs your Maiefties innumerabill other werteuis,
and will be prayfed be all aidges to coume, and all pofteritie ; fua, for
my auin pairt, fhall I euer ftudie, endeuore my felfe to manteyne,
aduance, and nurifche that your Highnes fua woorthie and godlie
deffeynge, and fliall applie to the fame to my wttermaift powar, as is
my bund dewtie to doe, in all I may onderftand to be your prencelie
will and pleafour ; off whais onlie bountifulnes, and liberall difpo-
fitioun, I acknoulcge to haue my haill eftaitt, being, honours, and dig-
niteis.
In the particular of the Kirk of Dunloppe, or Aikkett his entres
thairin, I man mak your Maieftie foirfeene, my entres or pouar is nayne
att all ; for, as the Laird Dunloppe3 lies bein kyndlie poffeffour of that
Kirk, and had right thairtoe thir many yeares, be my predecelfours,
and be the Kirk, I had lang befoir, for anye entres I could haue thairin,
ratifeid and approwin his rightis, as my Lord Archicbifchope of St
Androis ( was then of Glai'gow4) could weill haue informed your Majeftie
oil', he whais iicht and adwyfe 1 did all I did in that mater; fua that gif
anye queftaoun be thairin, ather in richt or kyndnes, it will be betuix
Dunloppe and Aikett: I can be pairtie to nayne of thame. I fliall be
1 See tlit- preceding letter. ' James Cunningham of Aikett.
: .lames Dunlop of Dunlop.
' This serves to fix the date of this letter to July or August 1615.
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 445
alwayes maift willing, for your Sacred Maiefties fatiffaclioun, to concurrc
withe anye in all good offices, to haue anye of tharae, to doe all meafure
and reafoun to other in all right and kyndnes ; hoiping this fall fatiffie
your Maiefties heiche wifdome, for my pairt in that mater. Nocht
willing to impefche your Sacred Maieftie, at the prefent, withe farder,
bot to praye, in all humilitie and affe&ioun of hairt, the Eternall lang
to preferue your Highnes in all profperitie, honour, and contentment,
with the humbill kife of your Royall hand, taiking my leiue, refts
Your maift Sacred Maiefties maift humbill
and affe&ionatt fubjecl; and feruitour,
Eglintodn.
CCLXX V.— ARTICLES REQUIRED FOR THE SERVICE OF THE CHURCH
OF SCOTLAND.1
Thair is lacking in our Churche ane form of Divin fervice ; and
qhiles every Minifter is left to the framing of publick prayer be him
felf, bothe the people ar negledlit, and thair prayeris prove often
impertinent.
Ane publick Confeffioun of Faith muft be formed, agreing fo neir as
can be with the Confeffioun of the Englifche Churche.
1 These Articles are in the handwriting of Spottiswood ; the reference to the vacancy
in the See of St Andrews fixes the date to June 1G15, before his return from England.
Two leaves in the Register of the Synod of Fife, containing the Minutes from October
1614 to October 1615, are lost, which might have contained some notices of his admis-
sion as Primate ; but Calderwood gives us the following statement : —
" Mr Johne Spottiswoode, Bishope of Glasco, returned from Court, the 10th of June,
and went to Glasco, seeming altogether ignorant who had gotten the gift of the Bishop-
ricke of Sant Androes, till one of his servants, waiting in Edinburgh upon the King's
patent, sent to him to come in hast to Edinburgh. When he came, he seemed to be mis-
content, as desirous to remaine still in Glasco. But in the mean tyme the gift passeth
the Seales, the tenor whereof, &c." Then follows a copy of the Commission, dated at
Greenwich, the penult of May 1615. — (History, vol. vii. 197 — 199.)
446 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1615.
Ane Ordour for electioun of Archbifchops and Bifchops, in times heir-
after, muft be eftablifchit by law ; and in the mean qhyl, if his Maieftie
purpofe the tranflatioun of any, by occafioun of this vacancie of St
Androwis, the form vfit in the tranflating of Bifchops heir in England
wold be kcpit.
Ane vniform Ordour for electing of Minifteris and thair refavinge.
The Formis of Mariage, Baptifm, and adminiftratioun of the Holy
Supper, muft be in fum pointis helpit.
Confirmation!! is wanting in our Church, qhairof the vfe for children
is moft profitable.
Canonis and Conftitutiounis mull be concludit and let forthe, for
keping botbe the Clergie and Kirkis in ordoure.
Thefe thingis muft be advyfit and agreit vpon in ane General Affem-
bly of the Clergie, qhich muft be drawn to the form of the Convoca-
tioun Houfe heir in England.
ccLXXYL— EXAMINATION OF MR JAMES MOFFAT, BY THE LORDS OF
PRIVY COUNSELL.
At Edinburgh, the xyj day of Junij 1615.
In prefence of my Lordis Archbiihop of Glafgow, the Lord
of Binning, Secretar, the Deputie Thefaurar, Kilfyth.
Clerk of Regifter, Advocat.
Maister James Moffat, folemnelie and deiplie fworne, and
demandit quhen he come in this countrie, deponis, That he come
heir about Lambes lal't, and landit in foine pairt vp the Water of
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 447
Forth, on the Southfyd thairof, hot knew not quhair ; and deponis,
that fince his conieing to Scotland1 he nevir pall benorthe the burgh of
Dundie.
Grantis that he hes bene in Drumfreis, bot denyis, vpoun his grite
aith, that he hes faid or hard Meffe fen he come in Scotland, becaus,
as he allegit, he wantit meffe claithis ; and fayis, he wes of opinioun,
yf he had gone to the North, that he wald haif gottin meffe claithis
thair.
Demandit, yf afoir he come in this countrie, he conferrit with ony
countrie man whair he micht expect aid or reffett in Scotland, or vnto
whome he fould mak his addreffe : feeing it is not lyklie that he,
conieing heir vpoun the perrell and hafard of his lyff, wald not be
curious to try and vnderftand quhair he wald find freindfchip ? Anfweris,
That he conferrit with no Scottis man vpon that fubjecl;.
Demandit, vpoun quhat acquentence he paft to William Sincleris
hous?2 Deponis, That Mr David Chalmeris aduilit him to go to that
hous, yf he come to Scotland.
1 Moffat had been apprehended by Gladstanes, Archdean of St Andrews, in Novem-
ber 1614, and being brought before the Privy Council, 10th December, was warded
in the Castle of Edinburgh. In his Trial he is called Mr James Moffat, alias Halybur-
ton, Jesuit and Seminary Priest. The principal charge against him was for treasonably
hearing mass " within tliis contry, a twentie year syne, or thairby ;" and he was finally
put to an assize, 13th September 1615, and adjudged " to depairt and pas away furth of
his Majesteis dominions, betuix and the twentie day of October nixt to cum, wind and
wedder servand." — (Pitcairn's Criminal Trials, vol. iii. p. 377 — 379.)
2 William Sinclair, Robert Wilkie, and Robert Cruikshank, were tried and convicted,
on the 14th August, for resetting of Jesuits and trafficking Priests. — (Pitcairn's Criminal
Trials, vol. iii. p. 371 — 376.) On the following day, by warrant from the King, 26th July
1615, they were brought to the scaffold for execution ; but another royal warrant was then
produced, dated the 27th of that month, which changed the sentence to banishment.
Lord Binning, in a letter to King James, dated Innernock, 16 August [1615], thus
mentions this incident : —
" Yisterday, the Archibishop of Santandrois caused your Maiesties commandement
concerning Sinclair, Wilkie, and Cruikschank, resettars of the Jesuites, to be executed
with great secrecie, well kept to the very moment of the exspected execution, and then
caused convoy thame bak to prison, to be baneissed according to your Maiesties last war-
rand."— (The Melros Papers, vol. i. p. 233.)
Calderwood likewise takes notice of this proceeding, and says, " Whill a great multi-
448 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1615.
Demandit, yf he reveilit him felff to William Sincleris wyff? Anfweris,
That he rememberis not, bot he is of opinioun that he reveiled not him
felff.
Demandit, yf he thinkis that the Pope of Rome hes ony power over
the Kino-is Maieftie ? Anfweris, That in spiritualibus allanerlie he ac-
knawleo-eis the Pope to haif power over the King. Bot anent his power
in temporalibus over the King, he anfweris, That that is a queftion not
as yitt defynit be the Kirk ; bot in his awne opinioun the Pope hes no
fuehe powar in temporalibus.
Deponis, That it is not lauehfull for the Pope to lowfe ony of his
Maiefteis fubiectis fra thair allegiance and obedience to his Maieftie ;
nather lies the Pope auctoritie to dcpofe the King, feing his Maiefteis
aucloritie is from God ; and fayis, that is not lauehfull for ony man to
flay the King, altho he wer commandit thairto be the Pope. And
fayis, that all his Maiefteis fubie&is aucht to obey him as than- naturall
King.
And for explaineing of his Depofitioun, anent the Pope's powar over
the King in spiritualibus, and for removing of all fcrouple and doubt that
may be movit thairvpoun, the faid Mr James declares and fayis, That
albeit the Pope hes all au&oritie over the King in spiritualibus, yitt he
lies no power to depryve the King of his lyff nor of his kingdome,
not to abfolue his Maiefteis fubiectis from thair lauehfull obedience to
his Maieftie.
Sic subscribitur, Jacobus Moffetus, Societatis Jesu Presbyter.*
tude of people wer gazing to sie the execution, there was a warrant presented to the
Magistrates of Edinburgh to stay the execution; so they were turned backe againe to
thair wairds. The people thought this forme of dealing rather mockerie than punish-
ment."— (History, vol. vii. p. 202.)
1 This last line is added in Archbishop Spottiswood's hand. Spottiswood, after his
detailed account of the proceedings against Ogilhy, says: — " Mr James Moffet, another
of the same Society, took a safer course ; for, having condemned Ogilvie's positions, he
was suffered to depart the country ; the King professing, as he ever did. That he icould
,„<■■,■ hang a Priettfor hit religion — (History, p. 523.)
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 449
CCLXXVIL— THE BISHOP OF THE ISLES TO JOHN MURRAY OF
LOCHMABEN.
Rycht worthe Sir,
Hering by the report of dyverfe paffingeris, and receawing fum
informatione by wryt, that the Lady Brughtone haid complenit wpone
me to his Sacreit Maiefte, that I haid delyverit hir fones ehartour chift,
evidentis, and patentis to the Lard of Loehinvar,1 the wiche (as I heir)
is thocht by his Maiefte to hawe beine ewill done by me, and by many
wtheris, to hawe bene wndewtifullie done to hir and hir fone, in refpecl
of the confidens fcho haid in me and my promifes. Sir, feing fcho newir
receawit promeifs of me bot fo far as it mycht agre with your plefour
and contentment, for I was nocht ignorant that, by your credeit, he haid
obtenit what he haid of his Maiefte, who was hir hufband, and I ewir
refolwit that it fould hawe retwrnit to yow and youris, failling his heris
maill. In that refpecl, and without all kynd of hoip of any adwantage
to my felf, I enterit wndir conditions with hir, gewing to hir and hir
brother in law affurans that, if ye agreit nocbt to the conditiones let
downe betuix vs, I wold proceid no farther bot as I fould heir of your
plefour thairanent. In the mean tym, I poffeffit hir ferwandis in fuche
houffis and caftellis as Inglifche men haid difpoffeffit hir and eiectit hir
out of, and put good ordour amangis all thais tenentis which hir hulband
haid plantit on thais landis ; bot receawing a lettir fra yow with Claud
Hammilton, Ennervikis fone, who com in your nam to tak poifeffione of
the landis in your nam, wnto the wiche I willingle yeldit, and again
receawit fra your felf dere6tione by wryt to delyvir to the Lard of
Loehinvar that ehartour fchift of the wiche I haid onle the keiping, bot
no key. I obeyit your will in that alfo, bot zit gawe no affent to brek
the fchift, as alfo the delywerar of the fchift hes his band of the keiping,
and for the redelyverie of euery particular lettir that was within that
1 Sir Robert Gordon of Loehinvar, in the Stewartry of Kirkcudbright. His eldest son.
Sir John Gordon, was raised to the peerage, 8th May 1633, as Viscount of Kenmure.
3l
450 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1615.
fchift, and fwa the letteris mull be forthcoming, for the wiche I will be
anfwcrabill. Now, Sir, icing I hawe done no thing bot at your dcrec-
tione, I mint homelie intret yow to informe his Maiefte of the equite of
my proccdings, who fchall mak Lochinvar anfwerabill by the lawes of
this realm, for the left lettir was in that fchift, of the wiche I hawe boith
the juft invcntur and his band for keiping and redelyverie to thois to
whome it appertcnis ; fo that thair fchalbe no hinder to the Lady or
hir fone for fait of any letteris that thay haid in that fchift, for thay
fchall be radie to ferwe thair twrnc as it fchall pleafe tham to whom
thay appertene. I receawit fum direclione fra yow by my Lord Seerctar
heir in Scotland to keipc that band, wiche, God willing, I fchall obey ;
bot if wthir wayes it haid pleafit yow to giwe leawe to me to hawe
affiftit that Ladie and hir fone, I could with lytill difficulte haiwe
obtenit the poffeffione of thais landis bak agan fra Lochinvar. Bot
your will fchall be a rewll to me ; hoiping that yow will vindicat me
frome the fcandell that that gentill woman layes wpone me, or ellis giwe
me leawe to affift hir. Farthir, at my Sones cuming to Court, ye will
know of my futtis, the wiche I muft intret yow to furthir ; and fwa, my
homill ferweicc rememberit to your felf and worthe ladie, I befeik God
to blifs yow boith, as by his graice I fchall reft
Tour awin affurit to be commanded,
An. Isles.
Edinbrugh, the firft of Auguft 1615.
I hawe spendit my trawellis, and ane
hundreth crowncs of expensscs, and lies
receavit no tliankis nor revard for that ser-
weice in Bruchtones faworis.
To the rycht Honorabill Jhone Murrey of
the bedchalmer, his aflwrit freind and
coufino-, at Court.
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 451
CCLXXVIII.— THE BISHOP OF GALLOWAY TO JOHN MUEKAY OF
LOCHMABEN.
Honorable Sir,
I heare my Lord Garlies is on way to Court : We wes here
vnder fome coinmoning ; and in the middis theirof, my Lord fearing I
fuld chairg him vnder paine of horning, convoied him felf the more
fecretlie away in the morning, Tyfday, the 12. of this inftant. It is
truth that albeit, at my Lord San&andrews his ficht, my Lord got verie
reafonable conditions of me, yet none ar keped. Neither is my dewtie,
nor the dewtie of the Minifters, thankfullie paied, fo that I am forced
to feeke myne owne be the law. I haue to intreat yow, that ye fuffer
me get no wrong there, by ony mifreport, diredtlie or indirectlie, maid, or
to be maid, to his Maieftie of me, bot that ye will be the firft informer
of his Maieftie that his Lordfhip deales not dewtifullie with me. I
ftialbe verie loath to complaine where I haue no caus. I know his
Maiefties word to my Lord Garlies may mak him more dewtifull ; bot
thefe countrey people ar verie bold to affirme what they pleafe, where
none is to controll them. The referuation of your freind Broughton's
landis, and your owne man his teindis, James McCulloch of Drummorrell,
hes maid my Lord ever fince in mifcontentment with me. Alwaie here
I hope to doe for my felf, and there I truft ye will ftand my freind. I
pray yow, according to my laft letter I wrot, remember his Maieftie
giue direction to the Lordis of Seffion, and in fpeciall to my Lord
Secretarie, and Clerk Eegiftre, to further the erection againe of the
Chappell. Affured of your favour, in the old manner, I reft
Yours in the Lord,
W. B. of Galloway.
Edinburgh, September 14. 1615.
Concerning the Proueftrie of Glenclouden, becaus it holdis of the
452 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1615.
ChappelL I defyre yow let nic know whether it he in your owne handis
or not, that I may do thereafter.
To the right honorahill John Murray of Loch-
niahen, Groorae of his Maiefties bedchalraer.
CCLXXIX..— THE EARL OF ANGUS TO KING JAMES.
Pleis your most Gratious Maiestie,
As it wes my no fmall greiff, when I onderftoude of the finifler
and vrongous mifreporte of me, conferning my profeffioun in religioun
(the fpreaderis of thefe calumnies vpone ther eonceaved advantage of
the far-diftance of place, prefuming that the partie whome they intend
to vronge falbe condemned hefore hearing), fo it is vnto me no fmall
conforte to be the fubiect of fo gratious a foueraigne, with whome no
detraction hath place, nor any evir be him convict vnheard ; bot ftill
referving the one ear to the pairtie accufed, whereof I haue found the
particular prowife in this calumny laitly vttered againes me be Mr
Robert Wilkie, in that your Maieftie wes pleafed nott to truft what vea
vttered vntill tryall wes taikin therof be my Lord Santandrois ; and
laiteft, your Maieftie did direct Sir Robert Douglas to bring your
Heines fertentie heirin, vho, no dout, befor this tyme hes certified your
Maieftie how far I haue bene vronged in that buflynes, where the pre-
tendit zcale whereof feme makes profeflioun, caul's them forgett both
honeftie and difcretioun. Alwayes it may veill content me to indure
that which too often and molt jirfllie lies moved my gratious mailer and
foueranes owen patience. I doe not intend to be in the reverence of
any of thefe people, if they will deliuer no more then treuth, and if your
Maieftie wald be pleafed to direct my Lords St Androis and Glafgow to
provyd many of our lvirkes heir vith fik as wald not prefs to fupplie
there vant of good doctrine and paynes, and there private inftructioun,
with a ])retendit outward fchaw and pretence of devoted zeale, no doubt
it wald try a great ineanes to ftrethen them wdio ar meanly groundit,
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIES. 453
and to releyue many vlio daylie fall away. It is now four years fince
your Maieftie had a letter of my hand-vritt, which may giue full afl'u-
rance of my profeffioun. Intreatting, therfor, humble your Maieltie
to reft confident, notwithstanding of whatevir falbe informed to the
contrarie, vntill I fall refuifs the tuichftone of all dew tryall, in geuing
full fatiffactione to the moft worthie Fatheries of the Church, and
fecunditt by thefe vho ferve cuire vnder them, as they themfelfes doe
moft vorthely difcharge there owen roumes, and gives reafone of your
Maieflies moft juft praifs, in making fo good choice. And praying
the Almichtie God long to continow your Maiefties long and moft
happie gratious gouernment ower ws, I kifs your facred hand, and
reftis,
Your Maiefties moft dewtifull fubiect and feruitour,
Angus.1
Douglas, the 10 of October 1615.
To my moft gratious and dreid Soue-
raigne, the Kingis moft excellent
Maieftie.
CCLXXX THE ARCHBISHOPS AND BISHOPS TO KING JAMES.
Most Sacred and Gratious Soueraine,
The monifold prooff of your Hienes conftant and indivertible
affection toward all your loyall fervants, encourages vs to putt your
Hienes in remembrance of your Maiefties old and faithfull fervand, Mr
Archbald Moncreiff,2 whofe fklelitie in his miniftrie, and conftant difpo-
1 William eleventh Earl of Angus : He succeeded his father in 1611 ; and was created
Marquis of Douglas, 18th June 1633.
5 Minister of Abernethie, from 1579 or 1580 ; see notice of him in the New Stat.
Account, Perthshire, p. 855.
451 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G15.
fition to your Hienes fervice, without alteration, even in moll difficill
tymes, wc doubt not, is fufficientlic knowne to your Maieftie : And
tberefbre doe we now, in all humilitie, recommend him to your Hienes
gratious acceptation, that, as occafion fhalbe offred, your Maieftie wilbe
pleafed to remember him, according to your Hienes wonted favour
toward others of his qualitie. Thus, by experience of your Hienes
kyndlie affection to your Maiefties old and approuen fervants, others
flialbe incited to devote themfelues, by all ferviable obedience, to fett
fordward, vnder God, your Maiefties moft wyfe and godlie defignes. So,
praying the eternal God to continew ftill his bleffing vpon your Royall
perfon and ftait, and mak your Hienes, for mony yeares, a King of
monifold blcffings, we reft, anrl humblie taks our leave,
Your Maiefties moft humble and obedient fervitoris,
Sanctandrews.
Georg B. of Orcads. Ja. Glasgow.
Ad. B. of Dunblane. W. B. of Galloway.
Edinburgh, 9 November 1615.
To the King his moft Sacred Maieftie.
CCLXXXI.— THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS, AND THE BISHOP
OF GALLOWAY, TO JOHN MURRAY OF LOCHMABEN.
Right Honorable,
The Bifhops here, upon good confiderations, hes recommended
our brotber, Mr Archbald Moncreiff, to his Maieftie, and we can doe
no les of our dewtie, in refpeccl of his good deferring, then commend
him to your favour. What he hes bene toward yow, and all yours, we
leave it to be declared be my Lord of Scone. As to his conftant difpo-
iition to his Majefties fervice ever fince the beginning, we can be wit-
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 455
neffes of it. And therefore will againe the more earneftlie intreat yow
to ftand his freind, that vntill the tyme his Maieftie haue the occafion to
remember his good fervice at all tymes, which rnony waies wes promifed
vnto him by the Earle of Dunbar : Some teftimonie of his Hienes
favour, by penfion or otherwaies, as my Lord of Scone and yourfelf can
beft determine, may be declaired towards him. Affured in this, and all
other, of your beft affection, we reft
Your very affurit good freindis,
SaNCTANUREWS.
Edinburgh, November 10, 1615. W. B. of Galloway.
To the right honorable their verie loving and
affured freind, John Murray of Lochmaben,
Groome of his Maiefties bedchahuer.
CCLXXXIL— THE BISHOP OF GALLOWAY TO JOHN MURRAY
OF LOCHMABEN.
Richt Honorable Sir,
Having fuch commodious occafion of my Lordis of Scone and
Orkney, your freindis I am fure, and myne alio, I could not bot of
dewtie falute yow with thefe few lynes, geving yow thanks for your
conftant favour towards me, in the continuance wheirof I reft affured.
What changis are there is not for me to wryt of; they ar blind who may
not fee ; there is a God who judges righteouflie : bleffed ar they who
wait vpon him, and keipes themfelues at peace with him : He raifes vp,
and caftes downe. Thought it neede not on your part, yet ye will par-
don me, out of my loue, to admonifh and put yow in remembrance, how
a man trewlie wyfe and godlie makis vantage of all Godis working
toward others. A low courfe is the fureft eftait : in all my fpeach to
others of yow, I thought it ay ane argument of greateft wifedome in yow ;
156 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1615.
hot if it fall pleas the Lord to call yow vnto higher, remember this
mckle for my faik : A man ryling to honour, if with it he ryfe in god-
linos, with a cair to ferae God in his calling according to the eminencie
of his place, that man may be fure of a bleffing, and of protection againft
great perfewers, ane example whereof ye may fee dailie in our dere
Soueraine : Monv delyucrances lies the Lord geuen to his anoynted ;
the Lord flill be a buckler to him ! Bot otherwaies, where it falles out
that men ryfing to honour forgetts the Lord their God, and miiknowes
him, as Jeremie faies, " Becaus he maid them Lordis," or, as Hofea
fpeakes, " As they wer exalted, they finned againft him." It hes alway
prouen trew, vpon fuch men, which the Lord fpak of Pharaoh, " I haue
raifed thee vp, to fliew my powar vpon thee." Wherefore, againe let
me intreat yow, out of the loue I owe yow, walk with the Lord your
God ; ftudie to prefent your hart to him, and mak your acquaintance
with him by earneft prayer; fen your comfort is in this, that ye look to
dwell with him for ever, be not a ftranger from him now. Be thankfull
for his goodnes to your felf. Be fearfull when ye fee him ftraik ony
befyde yow. Thus, if ye ordour your waies, ye flialbe fure, and fliall not
want a comforter, what ever befall yow, when others flialbe hard befted.
I haue no thing concerning my felf to acquaint yow with, bot when
occafion femes, ye will wryt to the Laird of Lochinvar to do dewtie to
me, that I have no caufe to complaine ; becaus ye loued him, I hurt my
felf, to giue him contentment. My Lord Garlies, I feare, fliall force
ine to complaine to his Maieftie. If fo be, I will reft perfuaded of your
kvndnes. Againe, I pray that the Lord may in mercie watch ouer his
Maieftie, and that the bleffing of God may be vpon his children. The
Lord be with yow. Pardon me to fafli yow with fo mony lynes, that
hes fcarce leafure to read them : Loue niaketh bold.
Your owne in the Lord,
Edinburgh, November 12, 1615. W. B. of Galloway.
To the right honorabill John Murray of Loch-
mabcn, Groome of his Maieftiesbedchalmer.
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 457
CCLXXXIIL— THE AECHBISHOP OF GLASGOW TO JOHN MURRAY
OF DUNDRENNAN.
RlCHT HoNORABILL SlR,
In my laft letter, I gaive yow aduertifment of the rumour which
went abrod heir, fum fevin or aucht dayes togidder, of the death of the
Bifchop of the lies, which, praifed be Cod, is falfe. ISTow, thocht I haive
refoluit to joyne with my Lord of Sct Androis in all thingis which con-
cernes the eftait of the Churche heir, and his Maiefteis feruice, and to
put my hand to thais letteris whiche be drawin vp be him, that ye be
nocht trublit with idle wretings. And albeit I haif no particular of my
awin at this tyme, neuertheles I wald prajfume, by this berar, my Lord
of Dunblane, and be thir few lynes, to remember my dewtie and feruice
to yow, and to commend yow hairtilie to the mercie and bleffmgs of
God, ever remaning
Your verie affe&ionat in all dewtie to ferve yow,
Canongit, 14 November 1615. Ja. Glasgow.
To the ryght honorabill his moift fpeciall
gude freind, John Murray of Dundranen,
Groome of his Maiefteis bedchalmer.
CCLXXXIV.— MISSIVE TO SIR ALEXANDER HAY, CLERK REGISTER.
To Sir Alexander Hay.
Trufty and welbeloued Counfellour, &c. Whereas Wee were
pleafed to procure a fubmiulon betwixt the Archbifhop of St Androis
and the Earle of Glencarne, for certayne maters debateable betwixt
them concerning the Abbacie of Kilwining, that all occafiounes of
3 M
458 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1615.
renucing the old rancour betwixt the Montgomeries and the Cuning-
hames might be quite taken away, which, as the Archbifhop of St
Androwes knowes, Wee enjoyned to hira at the giueing him the faid
benefice. Wee heare that the faid courfe is as yet delayed, whofoeuer
be the caufe thereof, farr by our expe&atioun. Therfor, becaufe the
faid fubmifnon, by Our direction, was entrufted vnto yow, Our pleafure
is, that yow deale with the faids partyes, from Vs, that they may renue
the faid fubmimon, and put all things queftioned therein to a poynt
conforme to the firft intention, otherwife let Vs know from whom the
impediment comes, and Wee will tak a courfe, that the partie who
failles haue no advantage by difapoynteing of that which was pro-
mifed vnto [Vs.] So, expecting the certantie of this from yow, Wee
bidd, &c.
Newmarkett, the 24 of November 1615.
CCLXXXV.— THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO JOHN MURRAY
OF LOCHMABEN.
Sir,
The Lard of Bombie ' lies fum bufines ado at Courte, fpecially
anent the paffinge of the Patronage of Twynani Kirk in Galloway,
qhiche wes one of the omittit Kirkis of Halyrudhoufe, qhairto I
borrowit my Sonnis name, for the better planting of them ; and feing he
hcs takin fufficient ordour thairwith, I wil requeift yow erneftly, qhom
I know otherwyfe to be his freind, to procure the fignatour to be paffit
by his Maieftie thairof with the firft expeditioun, and teftifie to his
.Maieftie my confent, qhich wil furder appeir in the procuratorie of
refignatioun that I haif maid of the famin. If it wer nedful, I wold
infill with yow to be his freind in al his other bufines; but knowing
qhair yow profefs, yow do nothing for the fafchioun, I wil not vfe
wordis, only recommendis this cffair particularly to yow, as qhairin I
1 Sir Robert Maclellau of Bombie, in Galloway. He was raised to the peerage as
Lord Kirkcudbright, 25th May 1633.
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 459
haif fom entreffe, and for the qhich I muft remain your obliflit, as for
mony vther kyndneffis. So, committing yow to God, I reft
Your affurit euer to be commandit,
Sanctandrews.
Leyth, the 9 of December 1615.
To my very honourabill good freind, Jhon
Murray of Lochmaben, of his Maiefties
bedchamber.
CCLXXXVL— THE BISHOP OF GALLOWAY TO JOHN MURRAY OF
LOCHMABEN.
Traist Freind,
I fent yow a litle Sermone : ' I hope ye haue gotten it or now,
and will haue cair of it. I am als bufie as I may be to get yow fome
other workis. In the meane tyme prayes yow with the firft fhippe
fend me two faddles for women, one for my wyfe, ane other for my
daughter. Let them not be of the fyneft, nor yet of the bafeft fort,
and let all the harnifhing be anfwerable therevnto. Doe this on my
expences, becaus they ar cheaper there nor here. So to new occafion
refts,
Yours in the Lord,
Edinburgh, December 14, 1615. W. B. of Galloway.
1 Probably his Sermon upon occasion of Spottiswood's translation to the See of St
Andrews, which was published under this title, " *fl2<l>0P02, or a most Heavenly and
Fruitfull Sermon, preached the sext of August 1615. At the Translation of the right
Reverend Father in God, the Archbishop of St Andrewes to the See thereof. By Mr
William Cowper, B. of Galloway. Imprinted at London by G. P. for Iohn Budge,
1616." 12mo, pp. vii. 85. Dedicated " to the Right Hon. my Lord Sanchar."
460 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1615.
CCLXXXVIL— THE ARCHBISHOP OF GLASGOW TO JOHN MURRAY OF
LOCHMABEN.
Right Honor abill,
In your laft letter, ye did recommend the Laird of Drumlanrik '
to me. He lies never com, nor fend any to informe me of his defyr. I
am as yitt ignorant of that mater, and knowis nothing of the ftait there-
of. But whenfoeuer he fall deall withe me, he fall find that, for your
caus, 1 fall vfe him withe all kyndnes and refpect as ye defyr, and ye
yourl'elf fall haue experienc that I fall endeauour to fhewe my felf als
thankfull to yow for your fauours, in all whiche ye will demand or com-
mand for your felf or your freinds, as poffible with reafon and dewtie I
may or can ; whereof praying yow to reft affured (thoght I giue not
many fair wordis), I tak my leiff, and befeiching God to preferue and
blifle yow in your whol carriag and fervice to that good King our Maifter,
I fall remaine,
Youris aflured in all dewtie to ferue yow,
Edinburgh, 15 December 1615. Ja. Glasgow.
To my very honorabill good freend, Jhone
Murray of Locmaben, one of his Maief-
ties bedchalmer.
CCLXXXVIIL— THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO JOHN MURRAY
OF LOCHMABEN.
Sir,
I haif nothing to wryt at the prcfent ; only pleifc yow delyver
this letter, qhich is direclit from al the Bifchops, to my Lord of Canter-
1 Sir William Douglas of Drumlaniig succeeded his father 17th October 1615. He
was created Viscount of Drumlanrig, 1st April 1C28, and Earl of Queensberry, 13th
June L63S.
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 461
bury. The Marques, as I am advertifit, takis jorney the 27 of this
moneth towardis Courte. If he cum, I doubt nothing his Maieftie wil
put him to a point ; for vpon the fucceffe of this proceding with him
dependis al our Papiftis refolutiounis. The Erie of Home is not lyk to
dimit the man qhom I advertifit he had takin to the edueatioun of his
children. Howfoon the Commiffion1 returnis, I mynd to haif him citit,
I mean the man him felf, and fo to procure him his leave. As yit
he hes gifin no anfwer concerning his children. The Secretary myndis
to keip jorney with my Lord Chancellar. So, for this tym, I tak my
leave, and reftis,
Tour affurit to be commandit,
Edinburgh, 21 December 1615. Sanctandrews.
To my very honourabill good freind, Jhon
Murray of Lochmaben, of his Maiefties
bedchamber.
CCLXXX1X THE AKCHBTSHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO JOHN MURRAY
OF LOCHMABEN.
Sir,
After the wryting of the laft, qhairin yow haif letteris from the
Bifchops of Glafgow and Galloway, and one from ws, al to my Lord of
Canterbury, I refavit your letteris of the ellevint of this moneth. As
to thefe matteris of Mar, I remit them to the fucceffe, and I pray God,
if it hold furth, that his Lordfhip may refolve to ferve his Maieftie
faythfully according to the Kingis own mynd, for 1 haif ever fen his
Maiefties purpofis as yit moft crofted be them that were placit in rowmis
to furder them. With your letter I refavit one from his Maieftie in
1 The Royal Commission, uniting the two Courts of High Commission (see note to
page 242), is dated 21st December 1C15. It is printed in Calderwood's History, vol.
vii. p. 204, and in the Booke of the Kirk, vol. iii. p. 1109.
462 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1615.
favoris of our Archclean of St Andrew is, qhich I think procedis from
fum inforraatioun he lies maid to his father in law,1 that I am fcarfe
his freind. But of that thair is no caufe ; neyther am I fo foolifche,
thocht I had matter of offenfe, to do him ony vnkyndnes, left the world
fold think we wer malicious, one to another. I know nothing qhairin
he can tak that fufpicioun, except that for fum overfightis committit in
the keping of thair exercife at St Andrewis, I found fault with him,
hefore the Sinode, becaufe he wes Moderatour of the reft, and at that
tvm namit another for this half yeir. In qhich, that he fuld not think
any il, I callit him before the Bifchops of Roffe and Cathnes, and gaif
him my counfel to follow his callinge, and behave him felf with greater
gravitie into it, and not a cumpany bearer with common folkis in drink-
inge, to qhich over mony of our forte ar fubiecl, afluring him if [lie]
fuld behaue himfelf lb as becam him, he fuld not miffe his Father how
longe I levit ; and fo for this yow wilbe plefit to affure his Maieftie that
I fal fo cary my felf to him, as thair falbe no advantage gifin to ene-
myis, nor fal he haif ony caufe to fufpecT; other.
The Chancellar and Secretary ! cum vp togither, as I wrote in the
other letter. The Chancellar wes one day erneft with me to go in the
jomey with him, but I told I culd not, for many bufineffis. The Secre-
tary this day hes ben erneft to the lyk purpofe. I culd wifche to be
thair, as I wrote before, for dyverfe affairis, bothe concerning the Kirk
and my felf; but qhen I think of the jomey, I know not qhat to
rriblve, being very vnfit for trauel, fpecially in this feafon. But as my
Lord of Canterbury thinkis good I fal do, and if I cum, falbe with them,
or fchortly after. I tak my leave, and reftis,
Your affurit good freind,
Edinburgh, 22 December 1615. Sanctakdhews.
To my very honourabill freind, Jhon Murray of
Lochmabcn, of his Maiefties bedchamber.
1 Alexander Gladstones, Archdean of St Andrews, the son of the late Archbishop,
and son-in-law of Bernard Lindsay of Lochhill.
J Alexander Earl of Dunfermline, Lord Chancellor, and Lord Binning, Secretary.
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 463
Sir,
The B. of Cathnes defyrit me to remember his precept, qhairin
ye wil do as yow find occafioun.
CCXC— THE BISHOP OF MURRAY TO KING JAMES.
Sacret Soverane,
May it pleafe your moft Excellent Maieftye, The continuall perfwit
be law be this Lord Spynie his curatours againft [me] for that ten thou-
fand merkis being liklie to putt me from publicl appeiring in your
Hienes ferwice, conftrans me to tak my refuge to your Maieftes accuf-
tomed clemencye. That it micht pleafe your Maiefty to fpeik to my
Lord Chancelar and Secretar, quho ar now with your Hienes prefentlye,
that thai attend to the fetling of that mater freyndlye, and that with the
Lord Spynie his curatours, and that no forder proces of law be thair-
anent. That your Hienes vald be pleafed to giwe varrand in wrett to
fe thair Lordfhips to command the Thefaurer Deputt to retein the Lord
Spynie his efcheat and lyfrent (quhilk is fallin be horning) in your
Hienes own hand, aye and quhill the Lord Spynie fetle and agree with
me ; or els that your Maiefty will direct the Thefaurer Deputt to dif-
pone the famin to funi freynd of myne to that famin effect. This is the
eafieft waye to end my turne, that I be nocht chargeable to your Maief-
tye. Now the Kyng off Kinges protect your moft Excellent Maieftye
from all dangers off foule and bodye, prolong your Hienes dayes in all
profperitye, with your Maieftes royall ifchew and pofterity, and in end
with that ewirlafting lyff.
Your Maieftes moft affectionat and humill fervitour,
Al. B. off Murraye.
Elgene, the xxviij off December 1615.
To the Kyng his moft Excellent Maieftye.
464 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1615.
CCXCL— LADY ELEANOR HAY, COUNTESS OF LINLITHGOW, TO
KING JAMES.
Pleas your most Sacred Maiestie,
I am compellit to feeke my releife when I am in truble, onder God,
at your Maieltie. Being now of new liardlie put at and fumond be the
Minifterrie heir, notwithftanding of the A6t fet doune in the laft Affem-
blie haldin att Halyrudhous in your Maieftes prefens,1 wiche in all pointes
I haue keipit, and alfo of your Maieftes fauorable letter wretten to the
Bifchep of Sanclandrois the laft Simmer. So that now I am at the
vcrrie point of Excommunicatioune, without your Maiefte be fo gratious
as to help it by your Hynes warrand to the Bifchep to defift, feing I
have appeallit to your Maiefte, as I mone euer in my trubles now in my
letter dayes. And if my healthe and onhabilitie had permitted, I
fhoulde haue cuinit and latten your Maiefte knaw how rigouroufly I
am wfit be them, wherof I dout noht bot your Maiefte will haue fume
refpect. Praying God to grant your Maiefte many long dayes and lang
to regne ouer us, I reft,
Your Maieftes moft humble fubiect and feruant,
Eleanor Hay.2
To his moft Sacred Maieftie.
1 In the General Assembly held in the Chanel Royal, Holyroodhouse, on the 10th
November 1602: when Instructions were given to the Ministers "appointed to wait
upon the Popish Lords." — (Calder wood's History, vol. vi. p. 165.)
5 Dame Eleanor Hay, only daughter of Andrew seventh Earl of Errol, married Alex-
ander seventh Lord Livingstone, created Earl of Linlithgow, in December 1G00. The
charge of the Princess Elizabeth was entrusted to her care. Among the Causes assigned,
in the General Assembly in May 1001, " of the defection from the puritic of true reli-
gion," one was, " The educatioun of his Majesties childrein in the companie of prof est
and obstinat Pa]>ists, suche as, the Ladie Liv'mgstoun." The date of the above letter
is somewhat uncertain. It was probably subsequent to the uniting of the Two Courts
of High Commission, in December 1615, when more stringent measures were adopted
against such " professed Papists."
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 465
CCXCIL— THE EARL OF CRAWFORD AND LORD SPYNLE TO KING
JAMES.
Most Drede and Gracius Sotjerane,
We, your Maiefties humble fubie6tis, the Erie of Craford, the
Lord of Spynie, Anna and Margaret Lindfayis,1 dochteris to vmquhile
Alexander Lord of Spynie, hering that the Prelbitrie of Edinburgh, and
Bifchopis of this your Maiefties Kingdome, lies enterit in deiling with
the Laird of Edgyell for relaxatioun of him fra his excommunicatioun,
without anie fatiffactioun of your Maieftie, or guidwill of ws, quhiche fall
neuer be without your Maiefties fpeciall command for oure pairtis, we
moft humblie haue taken occafioun to pray your Maieftie for jufteice,
and that your Maieftie wald nocht fuffer fo hard ane preparatiue pas in
oure contrare, quho hes no other proteclioun, vnder God, bot your
Maiefties favour ; and we dout nocht bot your Maieftie will remember
the one of ws wanting his vncle and dereft freind, the reft thair father,
and hes left ws altogidder vnprovydit ; and that puir eftait quhilk it
pleiffed your Maieftie of your moft gracius liberalitie to beftow vpone
vmquhile the Lord of Spynie, your Maiefties owne creatour, be his
vntymlie deith neir brocht to rowein. So, in all humilitie, we moft
humblie defyre your Maieftie to fend fuche ordour to the Bifchopis, that
thair be no favour fchowne to that cruell murderer without your Maief-
ties firft fatiffa&ioun : Praying to God for your Maiefties monie happie
dayis, we, as we audit, fall ever remane
Your Maiefties moft humble and obedient fubieclis,
Craford.
Spynie.
To his moft Sacrede Maieftie.
1 Married, Anna to Sir Robert Graham of Innermay, and Margaret to John Erskine
of Dun. — (Douglas's Peerage, by Wood, vol. ii. p. 518.)
3n
466 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1616.
CCXCIII.— THE BISHOP OF GALLOWAY TO KING JAMES.
Most Gratious Soueraine,
I reflaued a lettre from your Hienes truftie and trew feruand,
John Murray, willing me to mak knowne to your Maieftie the eftait of
the Chappell Royall. Sir, the truth is, according to your Hienes com-
mandement, I haue tranfported my familie to the Cannogait, as neere
your Hienes Palace as convenientlie I could, attending your Maiefties
fervice. I haue not taught in it bot once, the laft Sabboth of Nouem-
ber, when the two Archbifhops maid their homage, and gaue their
debtbound oath of fidelitie and fcrvice to your Maieftie.1 I haue
intended action againft all fuch as praefentlie pofteffes the rents of the
Chappell, and fhall doe what in me lyes to recover them ; not for ony
benefit to me, being hartlie content to quyt all the rent theirof that
your Hienes Chappell may be provyded of mufitians, and the Churches
belonging therevnto of pallors. When your Hienes fhalbe pleafed to
prsefcryve that there may be ane auditorie, I fhall not, by Godis grace,
fade in my dewtie of preaching. And fo foone as livings may be pro-
vided for Mufitians, it fhalbe my great contentment to be their prcefi-
dent, in fending vp to God, everie day, prayers and praifes for your
Maieftie and your Royall children. I remember, in the laft conference
concerning it, your Hienes called it Insigne Imperii, and what your
Maieftie eftemes ony honorable enfigne of your royall eftait, we wer moft
vntliankfull fervants if we fould not follow it, and willinglie come vnder
it, fen your Hienes lies geuen fo monifold prooftcs of rare pietic and
wifdome, never ft reat clung out your royall fcepter to the uttermoft, bot
tempering things lawful] with the law of expedience. In end, all my
lute is, your Maieftie wold be pleafed to giue comniandement to the
1 On the 26th November 1615, the Archbishops of St Andrews and Glasgow, after
sermon by the Bishop of Galloway, gave their oaths of allegiance as subjects, and of
homage for their Sees, holding up their hands, kneeling, to the Lord Chancellor, as
Commissioner for the King, in the Chapel-Royall of Holyrood Palace. — (Calderwood's
History, vol. vii. p. 204.) ,
1616.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 467
Lordis of your Hienes Seffion, that they do iuftice in fuch actions as
fliall come before their Lordfliips perteining to the Chappell. Sundrie
noble men haue I to do with, hot the cans is your Maieflies, and not
myne. Now, blefled be the Lord, who ftill prseferues your Hienes from
the contentions of your people, and ceafes not to doe vnto your Maieftie
according to the vprightnes of your hart. Craving pardon for my
longfumnes, thoght out of humble and moft ferviable loue, I reft,
Your Hienes moft humble and bound feruand,
W. B. of Galloway.
[Edinburgh, January, 1616 ?]
To his Maieftie.
CCXCIV— A MISSIVE OF HIS MAJESTY IN FAVOUR OF THE BISHOP
OF THE ISLES.
To the Thesaurer Depute.
Trusty, &c.
Wheras haveing made the Bifhope of the lies to difcharge that
penfion which he wes wont to haue of Ws, Wee were pleafed, for findry
confiderationes, to allow him one yeares dutie thereof, extending to
Two thoufand merkes, and Twentie key, as was contened in a precept
directed from Vs for that effect. Oure pleafure is, that the faid fowme
be fatiined, and yow take fuch order with the famen, that Wee be no
more trubled therewith. So recommending this to your care, Wee bid
yow fairewell.
Frome Oure Court at Newmercat,
the 2 of February 16 L6.
4G8 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1616.
CCXCV— THE BISHOP OF GALLOWAY TO JOHN MURRAY.
Honorable Sir,
I haue wrytten twyl'e vnto vow concerning Linclowden, bot as
yet lies i efi'aued no anfwer. I look for it with my Lord of St Andrews,
or fooner, as occafion may ferue. I pray yow caus delyuer this pakket
to my Lord of St Andrews ; and in cace his Lordfhip be departed from
Court or it come, and haue taken his iourney homeward, that ye will
open the letter written to his Lordfhip, and fupplie his abfence, by
doing that which I requeifted his Lordfhip to doe. So ftill remembring
your former courtefies with als thanki'ull hart, as I may, I reft,
Your owne in the Lord,
Cannogait, Feb. 14. 1616. AY. B. of Galloway.
I perceiue I wilbe forced to depofe Mr Ifaac Paterfone, Minifter at
Anveth,1 who got a prtefentation to the vicarage of that Kirk. If it fo
fall out, I haue a worthie and learned man there to be planted, in
whofe fauours I will requcift yow to let this fignature paffe by his
Maieftiea hand and your owne. If ye knew the defolation of that
countrey, I am allured ye wold pitie it, and think it a comfort to your
owne hart to be ane inftrument of the aduancement of the Gofpel
there.
To the right honourabill Jhone Murray,
Groome of his Maicfties bcdchalmer.
1 Mr Isaac Patersoon was Minister of the united parishes of Anveth (or Anwoth) and
Girtoun, from about the year 1G00. — (Books of Assignation of Stipends, for the years
Mini , 100", 1008, and 1014.) He probably continued in that charge till his death ; and
had as his assistant or successor, in IOL'0, the celebrated Samuel Rutherford. On the
L5th July L637, George Patersoun was served heir to his uncle " haeres M. Isaaci I'ater-
soun, Ministri Verbi Dei apud ecclesiam de Anwagbt." — (Inquis. Ret. Gen., No. 2313.)
1616.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 469
CCXCVL— THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO KING JAMES.
Most Guatiotjs Soueraigne,
May it pleafe your Maieftie : AVhereas at the reftoring of the
Bifltoprickes to their firft integrity,1 euery Bifhop being repofieffed of
that Commiflliriat which was due vnto him, amongft tlie reft onely that
of Stirling, being compofed of findry dioceffes, when euery Bilhop got his
own, it was diflblued in peeces, nothing being referued to the Committal*
but a part which he has of nice, fo that I can not in confcience but
recommend Mafter Robert Murray, the Committal* thereof,2 to your
Majefties gratious confideratioun, entreating that your Majeftie may be
pleafed to graunt him a precept for any gratuitie your Majeftie thinkes
expedient, to be anfwered out of any fynes that fliall fall due to your
Majefties Thefaurie, or of the High Commiffion ; for he being euer a moft
fpeciall freend of ours hath onely had the hap to be harmed in this kynd,
fo that the confidering of him can import a preparative for no other.
It is vncertaine when a benefite arryfes by thofe fynes, and he may be
eafilie contented. Thereto ir, I most humbly entreat your Majeftie to
conferre this fauour vpoun him, among many others beftowed by your
Majeftie for aduancement of the Church ; and wee fliall euer, as in dutie
bund, continually pray for your Majefties long and happie raigne.
Your Majefties moft humble and obedient feruand,
Sanctandkews.3
1 By au Act of Parliament, passed on the 24th June 1609, entitled, " Act of the
Commissariatis and Jurisdictioun gevin to Archbishoppis and Bischoppis."
2 Mr Robert Murray appears as Commissary of Stirling in the earliest volume pre-
served of the Commissariot Register, in June 1607, and, along with John Murray, he
continued to hold the office till 1648.
3 This letter has no date, but may be assigned to the year 1616. Being written by
Spottiswood, after his translation to the See of St Andrews, it must necessarily be sub-
sequent to August 1615 ; not improbably in May or June 1616, after his return from
Court in the end of April.
470 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1616.
CCXCTIL— THE BISIIOP OF DUNBLANE TO JOHN MURRAY.
EtlCHT WoRSCIIIPFULL,
The manifold kyndnes whilk I refavit frara yow, efpecially at
my being at Court, dois fo oblige me vnto yow, as I can not fufficiently
acknowlege the famin, and I wold I raicht in ony meafure giue ane
inciting, whilk, till God mak me abill, I fall be alwayis myndfull of.
Ane incident occafion whairof I fpak fomething of when I was at Court,
anent the oppreffionis, fo barbarous and mony, whilk my Lord Forbes
lies fufteinit in his landis of Caithnes, I am moil effectually to intreat
your help in regraitting it to his Maieftie, that it wald pleas his
Maieftie to inquyre and try what the Seereit Counfall of Scotland hes
gottin, and fund alredy confeft, anent thefe materia, whilk becaufe may
perhaps concerne fome perfonages of griter qualitie wald be exactly
tryit, and excmplarly taken ordor with ; and in refpect that many of
thefe oppreilbrs ar alredy entered within prifon, that fuche ordor may
be taken that that pure oppreffed boundis may be fred of thair cruell
and barbarous wrongis, till it pleas God in tyme to bring a full dif-
coverie of all thefe moleftationis, fome gude beginningis of tryall being
alredy offered and reveiled to the Counfell. This I will intreat yow to
mak knowen to his Maieftie, whole mynd is fo inclyned to Jultice, as
we, from our hartis, praifes God for, and as ever I may be abill to do to
yow what dutie I am abill for; befyd that, the mater being fo iuft,
ncidis no infmuationis to inak yow earneft. I have taken the boldnes
thus to writ to yow, having affured my Lord Forbes, who is my brother,
of your love and cair to all honeft adoes. My dutie remembred, I reft
Your affecHonat to be commandit to my power.
Edinburgh, the G of Apryle 161G. Ad. B. of Dunblane.
To the richt worfchipfull John Murray of Dun-
draiian. ane of his Maiefties bedchamber, thefe.
1616.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 471
CCXCVIIL— HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE ARCHBISHOP OF
ST ANDREWS.
Right Reverend Father in God, right trufty and well beloved
Counfellor, We greet yon well. We have received yonr letter of the
13th of this inftant, whereby ye and the remanent Bifhops doe give Us
account of the High Commiffion's proceedings, and the caufes movinor
them at their laft meeting, to committ the Marquefs of Huntlie : and
as We are well pleafed both with your Aflembly, and that effect
thereof, efpecially at this time of fo great defection and apoftacy in the
North ; fo it is Our pleafure, that the faid Marquefs be no ways
relieved of his commanded reftraint, but that he remain therein, not-
withstanding Our late letter font to him, which being directed and dif-
patched before We knew of his reftraint,1 is not to be interpreted as a
warrant for his relief thereof; fo as notwithftanding the faid letter, ye
are ftill to detain him, if he be in prifon, and otherways to caufe him
re-enter the fame.
And feeing now ye haue made fo fair an entry and way to curb and
correct Popery, and prevent the future grouth and increafe therein ; fo
We are the more earneftly to perfuade you to fett foreward in fo good a
caufe, without fainting or wearying ; becaufe at this time of the Marquefs
his imprifonment, every man will be in expectation of fome real effect
and work of reformation : Wherfor you and all the reft of your col-
legues are to ufe the greater care and diligence in your proceedings
againft the Jefuits, Priefts, and Papifts in thefe parts; and chiefly
againft thefe of the faid Marquefs his name, kind, and dependents, by
citation, or fuch other courfe as ye fhall think meet for their difcovery,
purfuit, tryal, and punifhment, wherein as We doubt not, but ye will
perform all that We can expect or require of you, fo may ve be confi-
1 On the 12th of June, the Marquis of Huntly having refused to subscribe the Con-
fession of Faith, or to give any satisfaction, had been warded in the Castle of Edinburgh ;
but was released, on the 18th, by a warrant of the King. See Calderwood's remarks on
this affair, in his History, vol. vii. p. 212.
172 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1616.
dent of Our fpecial approbation and aid to be conferred to any lawfull
courfe that ye intend or take for the fame.
In the mean time, among other particulars of that letter fent unto
Us, Wee cannot but take fpecial notice of the devilifli difpofition of
Cornelet Gordoun's wife, in railing fo wickedly againft a Preacher, and
ufing inch fpeaches to divert people even at the Church door from
entering to hear the Word : Wherfor, Our pleafure is, that ye refolve
upon the moft expedient courfe to bring her to Edinburgh, and file to
be committed to the Tolbuith thereof: for if thefe fpeaches expreffed in
the faid letter be verified againft her, We will repute her as infamous,
odious, and punifhable as any witch : and unlefs be her punifhment,
We be confirmed of her guiltinefs, We muft efteem the information
made againft her to be but an invention, and yow too eafdy to haue
belieued a lye.
According to your defire, We have required our Depute Treafurer to
caufe difpatch the guard to purfue Gight,1 and take his houfe. And for
punifhing the reft that being cited, compeared not before Our Hie
Commiflion, We have willed him to proceed againft all and every one
of them, with all feverity and rigour of law.
And to conclude, whereas ye defire the declaration of Our pleafure
concerning Mr John Murray : Seing be his conformity he has given
you fatiffaclion, We arc well pleafed that ye place him in Dunferm-
ling, or elfewhere, as ye ihall think moft fitt. And fo We bid yow
farewell.
At Wanfteade, the 22 of June 1G1G.
> !0X( IX.— MEMORANDUM FOR ANE LETTER TO BE WREITTLN BE MY
LORD OFF CANTERBERRIE.'
That it may pleis his Lordfhip to inak mentione off the earned
K lyre off the Archbifchoppe of Sanclandrois to joine with his Maieftic
1 George Gordon of Gieht : see Pitcairn's Criminal Trials, vol. iii. pp. 402, 418-428.
This paper, »o indorsed, is anonymous, but judging from the handwriting compared
1616.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 473
in conforming the Marques off Huntlie, or then in reftraning him frome
all liberties off his flat and place within the kingdome ; as alio beand
commandit be his Maieftie to joine in laboring with his Hienes for that
effect, at leaft finding the Marques refolwed in all points, and earneftlie
intreating for relieff off his Excominunicatione, hes nocht furthe off vfur-
patione off ony jurifdi6tione abowe the Churche off Scotland ; hot at the
command off his Maieftie and defyr off the Churche thair, afiftit the guid
intentionis and defyris off his fellowe brether, and nightbour Churche :
theirfor requefts them to accept his cooperation in guid part, and to
approwe and intimat the abfolutione and acceptatione off the Marqueis
within thair owne boundis, as effairis.
Item, Sir, pleas yow remember in your letter to the Secretarie, that
[he] adwyfe with Sanctandrois vpon the quantitie of money to be be-
llowed vpon the Commiffioner, and to returne thair adwyfe to yow, that
his Maieftie may pas the warand bak agane : And that in my bufines
ye intreat his Lordfhip to caus the Comiffar of Aberdene defift from
his tak off Quottis off Aberdein feet to him be the lait difceaffit
Bifchop.1
Item, That ye will caufe fowme ane off yowr ferwand remember Doclor
Mayzerne2 for the recipe to my Lady of Montroife eyis, quhilkis he
promifed at Roiftone, and lett it cum with packit ; and feing the tyme
is fchort for adwertiffement to noble men and barons, caufe put two
gallowfes vpon the packit.
Item, "Wreitt to my Lord off Sanclandrois, declaring your awne dili-
genc : his Hienes princly cair in our difpatche, and my willing trawellis ;
and as for refolutione to be takin efter the Affemblie, refer credit to
the beirar, according to our comuning at Quhythall. I pray caufe haft
with his letter dated the 17th August 1616, there can be no doubt it was written by Alex-
ander Forbes, Bishop of Caithnes. He had gone to Court (see pages 477 and 485) before
the end of June, when the See of Aberdeen became vacant, to which he was tran-
slated.
Peter Blakburne, Bishop of Aberdeen, died 14th June 1616. — (Records of the Kirk-
Session of Aberdeen, printed for the Spalding Club, p. 84.)
Dr Theodore Mayerne, an eminent French physician, who settled in London, in
1610, and became First Physician to the Royal Family. He was knighted in 1624, and
died in 1655.
3 o
474 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1016.
the Bifhop of Canterbcrrie letter, that it may giwe contentment to the
mil Aflemble.1
Item, To remember Sir William Alexander to receawe warrand from
liis Maieitie for apprehending Robert Bimer, fon to the Lard off Bal-
zcrdic,2 murtherer and denuncit rebell in Scotland, and captioune groin
againft him to the juftice off peace of Angufs and Mearnifs.
CCC— HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST
ANDREWS.
[Spottiswood, in his History of the Church of Scotland, lias given a detailed account
of the proceedings before the High Commission against the Marquis of Huntly, and
of his absolution from the sentence of excommunication, at the King's command,
by the Archbishop of Canterbury, on the 8th of July : " The Absolution (he says),
was given him in the Chappel of Lambeth, by the Archbishop of Canterbury, in this
form : " —
" Wn"EiiEAS the purpose and intendment of the whole Church of Christ is to win
men unto God, and frame their souls for Heaven, and that there is such an agreement
and correspondency betwixt the Churches of Scotland and England, that what
the Bishops and Pastors in the one, without any earthly or worldly respect, shall
accomplish to satisfie the Christian and charitable end and desire of the other, can-
not be distastful to either ; I therefore finding your earnest intreaty to be loosed
from the bond of Excommunication wherewith you stand bound in the Church of
Scotland, and well considering the reason and cause of that censure, as also con-
sidering your desire, on this present Hay, to Communicate here with us, for the
better effecting of this work of participation of the holy Sacrament of Christ our
Saviour his blessed Body and Blood, do absolve you from the said Excommuni-
cation, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost ; and
beseech the Almighty God, that you may be so directed by the Holy Spirit, that
you may continue in the truth of his Gospel unto your lives end, and then be made
partaker of his everlasting Kingdom."
1 The General Assembly, about to be held at Aberdeen in August.
• This refers to the slaughter of David Grahame, son of the late James Grahame of
Leuchland, committed by Robert Symmcr, son of the Laird of Balzerdie, at Brechin,
29th April 1G1G. In November 1618, Symmer, having at length been apprehended,
was tried and executed for this murder. — (Pitcairn's Criminal Trials, vol. iii. p. 437.)
1616.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 475
" How soon it was known that the Marquess was absolved by the Archbishop
of Canterbury, there were great exceptions taken by the Church, and the same in-
terpreted to be a sort of usurpation : whereof the lung being advertised, in a long
letter written to the Archbishop of St Andrews, he did Justine the doing by thesa
Reasons : — ]
First, That in abfolving the Marquefs nothing was intended to the
prejudice of the Church of Scotland, but what was done was out of a
Christian neceffity, it being needful that the Marquefs fhould be ab-
folved before he was admitted to the participation of the holy Sacra-
ment. Secondly, He willed the Church to confider that his abfolution
at home was only deferred upon the fcruple he made of the prefence of
our Saviour in the Sacrament, and that upon his confeffion, fwearing and
fubferiving the other points of religion, they themfelves had fufpended
his excommunication, the lawfulnefs whereof he would not difpute, but
remit the fame to the Canonifts ; yet the fufpenfion Handing, it was not
much from an abfolution. Thirdly, That the abfolution given him in
England did neceiTarily imply an acknowledgment of the authority of
the Church of Scotland ; whereas if the Archbifhop of Canterbury had
received him to the holy Communion, and not firft abfolved him, being-
excommunicated by the Church of Scotland, the contempt and neglect
had been a great deal greater. Fourthly, That the Marquefs being
come into England, and making offer to perform whatfoever mould be
required of him, it was more fit to take him in that difpofition, than to
have delayed it unto his return into Scotland.
For thefe reafons, He faid, and efpecially becaufe all that was done
was with a due acknowledgment and rcfervation of the power and inde-
pendent authority of the Church of Scotland, which the Archbifhop of
Canterbury had by his own hand teftified; it was His pleafure, that
upon the Marquefs his return a full form of abfolution fhould be given
him, or a ratification made of that which was done in England ; fo as
neither the Archbifhop of Canterbury his doing lhould be difapproved
as unlawful, nor the fame fo approved as it might feem that the Church
of Scotland was inferior in any fort to that of England ; and that the
Archbifhop's Letter written to that effect fhould be put in record, and
kept as a perpetual monument for ages to come.
476 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1616.
CCCL— THE ARCHBISHOP OF CANTERBURY TO THE ARCHBISHOP
OF ST ANDREWS.
[At the General Assembly, on the 15th August, " The Bishop of Sanet Androes
presented ano letter direct from the Arehbischop of Canterburie, together with ane
vthiT letter from the Kings Maiestie, concerning the absolutioun of the said Lord
Marqueis [of Huntlie] from the sentence of excommunication made be the said
Archbishop of Canterburie, quhilk were both red in presence of the said Assc mblie,
and ordainit to be registrat in the Acts of the Gencrall Assembly ad perpctunm rei
memoriam." The letters referred to are not contained in any of the MS. copies of
the proceedings of the Assembly : Spcttiswood, however, has inserted in his His-
tory, along with the extract from the King's letter to himself (No. CCC), the follow-
ing copy of the Archbishop, Dr George Abbot's letter, which his Majesty enjoined
" should be put in record, and kept as a perpetual monument for ages to come."]
Salutf.m in Ciikisto,
Becaufe I underftand that a General Affembly is fhortly to be
held at Aberdcne, I cannot but efteem it an office of brotherly love to
yield to you an accompt of that great aiStion which lately befell us here
with the Marquefs of Huntley. So it was then, that upon the coming
up of the faid Marquefs, his Majefty fharply entreating him for not
giving fatiffaction to the Church of Scotland, and for a time rcflraining
him from his Royal prefence, the Marquefs refolving to give his Majefty
contentment, did voluntarily proffer to communicate when and where-
fover his Highnefs fhould be plcafed ; whereupon his Majefty being
plcafcd to make known that offer to me, it was held fit to ftrike the iron
whilll it was hot, and that this great work fhould be accomplifhcd before
bis Majefiies going to progrefs ; whereunto a good opportunity was
offered by the Confecration of the Bifhop of Chefter, which was to be in
my Chappel of Lambeth the feventh of this month, at which time a
folemn Communion was there to be celebrated.
The only paufe was, that the Marquefs being excommunicated by the
Church of Scotland, there was in appearance fome difficulty how he
might be abfolved in the Church of England : wherewith his Majefty
being acquainted, who wifhed that it fhould not be deferred, we grew to
1616.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 477
this peaceable refolution, which I doubt not your Lordfhip and the reft
of our brethren there will interpret to the belt. For firft, what was to
be performed might be adventured upon, as we efteemed, out of a bro-
therly correfpondency and xinity of affection, and not only of any autho-
rity ; for we well know, that as the Kingdom of Scotland is a free and
abfolute Monarchy, fo the Church of Scotland is entire in it felf, and
independent upon any other Church. Secondly, we find by the advice
of divers doctors of the civil law, and men beft experienced in things of
this nature, that the courfe of Ecclefiaftical proceedings would fairly per-
mit that we might receive to our communion a man excommunicated in
another Church, if the faid perfon do declare that he had a purpofe
hereafter for fome time to refide among us ; which the Lord Marquefs
did openly profefs that he intended, and I know his Majefty doth defire
it : and for my part, I reft fatiffied that it can bring no prejudice, but
rather contentment unto you and to that Kingdom. Thirdly, it pleafed
God, the night before the celebration of the Sacrament, to fend in our
brother the Bifliop of Cathnes, with whom I taking counfel, his Lordfhip
refolved me, that it was my beft way to abfolve the Lord Marquefs, and
affured me that it would be well taken by the Bifhops and Paftors of the
Church of Scotland. I leave the report of this to my Lord Cathnes
himfelf, who was an eye-witnefs with what reverence the Marquefs
did participate of that holy Sacrament. For all other circumftances I
doubt not but you fhall be certified of them from his Majefty, whofe
gracious and princely defire is that this bruifed reed fhould not be
broken, but that fo great a perfonage (whofe example may do much
good) fhould be cherifhed and comforted in his coming forward to God :
which I, for my part, do hope and firmly believe that you all will endea-
vour, according to the wifdom and prudence which Almighty God hath
given unto you. And thus as your Lordfhip hath ever been defirous that
I fhould give you the beft affiftance I could with his Majefty for the re-
ducing or reftraining this Nobleman, fo you fee I have done it with the
beft difcretion I could ; which I doubt not but all our brethren with you
will take as proceeding from my defire to ferve God and his Majefty,
and the whole Church of Scotland. I fend you herewith the Form
which I ufed in abfolving the Lord Marquefs in the prefence of the Lord
478 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1616.
Primate of Ireland, the Lord Bifhop of London, and divers others. And
fo befeeching the blcfiing of God upon yon all, that in your Aflembly
with unity of ipirit you may proceed, to the honour of Chrift, and to
the beating down of Antichrift and Popery, I leave you to the
Almighty.
From my houfe at Croyden, July 23, 1616.
CCCII.— MR JOHN FORBES, MINISTER, TO KING JAMES.
Pleis your Maiestie,
The dett of thankfulnes wherin I ever remaine obliged vnto yowr
Maieftie for the benefit of hclthe and lyf preferred, and for that whiche
is moir then bothe hclthe and lyf, yowr Maiefties gratious accepting me
in yowr princly favour and protection as a good fubiect, docth ftill force me
to fchew foorthe fome evidences of a hart wholly addicted to your Maief-
ties ferveice, and filled with a defyr to manifeft all willingncs in moil
inteir affection, to do that dutie whiche I am never able to perform.
Trufting that yowr Maieftie in fo great things will eftecm it fufficient to
haw willed : Seeing from fo bafc and low a worm, no condigne action of
fo high a Maieftie can proceid to anfuer in any meafur fo highc a favour.
I haw laboured to male others know what I haw foundc in fuch fort, that
the wordle wantethe not witneflcs of yowr Highnes clemencie towards
me. And yet mynding to leaw moir conftant records of my thankfull
remembrance, 1 purpofed to haw begun by fending a litlc trcatife (which
I haw wrytten at the defyr of the Company of Merchant! Adventurers,
and is now printed by them), touching Juftification, vnto the wordle,
rader the fchaddow of yowr Maiefties favour, thinking that yowr High-
nes would not rcfufe the patronadge of my work, fince yowr Maieftie
has receaued my felf in yowr gratious protection. But vehement defyr
to pleas caufing alwayis fear to offend, I durft not adventur without
licence. And therfoir haw fend that litlc work to be confiddered and
confuted by yowr Maieftie, that if yowr Hynes find it worthie, and fo
1616.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 479
permit, I may ad vnto it a dedication,1 as a record of yowr Maiefties
favour, and a finall token of my thankfulnes for it. If it receaw yowr
Maiefties approbation, it fhall not be affrayed, nor I affchamed of the
cenfur of others. I kcip it vp vntill I know yowr Maiefties mynd, hum-
bly attending yowr Highnes direction, and defyring, if it may ftaud with
yowr Maiefties pleafur, that yowr Highnes prohibitione may ftay all
withing yowr Maiefties dominions from printing, or caufing print, this
treatife, or fuche others as I fchall happen to wryt, without my owen
confent, for as I purpofe, Godwilliug, to publifhe nothing but that
whichc flialbe approued of yowr Maieftie, fo I would humbly intreat
this favour, that I might haw chofe of the printer. And fo in all loving
reverence, kiffing yowr Maiefties hands, I ceas not to pray for yowr
Maiefties long and profperous reigne.
Your Maiefties humble and affeclionat
fubiecl and fervitour,
Jo. Forbes.
Middlebruche, 24 Julij 1616.
To the King his moft excellent Maieftie.
CCCIII.— MR JOHN FORBES, MINISTER, TO KING JAMES.
Sir,
It may pleafe yowr Maieftie that, in thankfull acknowledgment
of yowr Hienes lait fawour, I cam to offer the lyff, therby, vnder God,
1 As Forbes's work appeared without the proposed Dedication, we may presume the
King had declined the compliment, in reply to this very submissive application. On this
supposition, another letter by him, without date, is placed in connection with this ;
although it may possibly have preceded it. The work referred to bears this title : —
" A Treatise tending to cleare the Doctrine of Justification. Written by Io. Forbes,
Pastour of the English Church at Middelburgh, for the instruction of his flocke : And
now published by some of them for the good of others. At Middelburgh, printed by
Richard Schilders, 1C16." 4to. The Epistle to his flock is dated 20th July 1615.
480 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1616.
preferued vnto yowr Maiefties fcrvcice, hoping that, partly hy intereef-
fion of otheris, partly hy my owen declaration of my innocencic, mani-
feftation of my dewtifull acknowledgment of yowr Maiefties fupremacie,
lmmhlc recours to yowr Maiefties moft wyfe and equitable judgment,
and earneft fupplication for favour, to haue found a gratious acceptance.
But fince this is not the acceptable tym, I will in patience attend the
day of yowr Hienes favour ; couforting my felf in my trouble with the
inward teftimonie of my finceir and vnfained affection toward yowr Ma-
ieftie, and vpricht intention to perform all dutifull ferveice, therby
indcavoring to deferve yowr Maiefties favour. Hartly fory for yowr
Maiefties fo long continowing difpleafour, and that the continowance
thereof fliould ftay your Hienes from reaping the fruict of your owen
work, whylis your Maieftic refufeth to mak vfe of the lyf whiche ye haw
preferved. But yet trufting that the truthe of thefe things touching
our proceidingis whiche I haw prefented to yowr Maiefties gratious con-
fideration lhall mollifie yowr Maiefties mynd, and rcmoue the hard con-
ceat and wrathfull difpleafour, not without caufe, conceaved by yowr
Maieftie in refpecl; of the fmiftrous informationc and relatione of otheris
who haw wronged bothe yowr Maieftie and vs, and that in convenient
tym yowr Maieftie fhalbe moved to crowne the work of yowr owne
clemencie, by wouchaffing the confort of yowr royall favour wher ye
haw wouchaffed lyf. I ftill continow in humble fupplication for it, and that
in the mean tym it may pleafe yowr Maieftie, of yowr ever patent
bountie and clemencie to all, for the futur prefervation of my helthe
roftorcd, to renew yowr Maiefties licence of repairing to yowr Maiefties
dominions, as neid fhall rcquyr, vpon the conditions contained in the
former. Thus praying to God for prefervation of yowr royall perfon,
increafe of honour, a profperous raignc, the confufion of yowr enemies,
and confort of yowr Maiefties peace to thoife that loue yow, I reft,
Yowr Maiefties eucr loving and
humble fervitor,
Jo. Fokbes.
1616.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 481
CCCIV.— HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO SIR ANDREW MURRAY OF
BALVAIRD.
James R.
Trufty and welbeloued. Wee greete yow well, whaireas Wee haue
tboght it reqnifite to call a Nationall Affemblie for hinderance of the
increafe of Poperie, whiche (as Wee are informed) hath alreadie taiken
too deepe roote in the North pairtis of that Oure Kingdome, Wee haue
made fpeciall choife of yow to be prefent thereat, as one in whole affec-
tion to the aduancement of Religion and good eftate of that Contrie
Wee haue a fpeciall truft. So willing yow to affift Oure Commiffionar,
and give your beft advice in whatfoever fhalbe propofed at the faid
meiting, Wee bid yow farewell. Given at Theobaldes, the eightenth of
July 1616.
To Oure trufty and welbeloued, Sir Andrew
Murray of Baluaird, knight. '
CCCV.— ENTSTRUCTIOUNS TO OUR RIGHT TRUSTIE AND WELBELOVIT
CUSIGNE AND COUNSELLOUR THE ERLE OF MONTROIS.2
1. That order be taken with the delapidation of Benefices, and
the progrefs thereof ftayed, and fome means devyfed to recover that
which is loft.
2. That the chief burrow touns be planted with fufficient, wife,
learned, and peaceable men ; efpecially fuch places as are now vacant, as
Aberdeen, Perth, Edinburgh, and Bamfe, &c.
1 The same letter is also indorsed, — " To Oure trusty and weilbeloued, the Laird of
Balm anno."
s John Earl of Montrose was Commissioner for his Majesty, at the General Assembly-
held at Aberdeen, 13th August 1616.
3p
482 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1616.
3. That the moll learned, difcreet Minifters be appointed and tranf-
ported to places where Noblemen has their refidence, fpecially fufpedl of
Papiftry ; and if the means of the provifion be fmall where they are
tranfportcd, to take the rents and itipend which they had before with
them, till better order be taken: and to this effecl; the Affembly
ordaines, that ilk Bilhop within his Diocy, with advice of the Synod,
fhall tranfport Minifters as they fhall think expedient.
4. That a (pedal Canon be made, that all Archbifhops and Bifhops,
in their viiitation, either be themfelves, or if they may not overtake the
(amen, the Minifters of the parifh make all young children of fix vears
old be prefented to them, to give confeffion of their Faith, that they
may appear in what religion they are brought up. After which every
two or three years they (hall be examined, till they come to 14 years of
age. After fufficient growth of knowledge, they may be admitted to
the Communion : and that punifhment be appointed for them that pre-
lents them not, or are negligent in their inftruction.
5. That a true and fimple Confeffion of Faith be fet doun, to the
which all (hall fweare before they be admitted to any office in Kirk or
Commonweale ; and all ftudents in Colledges.
(J. That a fhort and compendious Catechifm be made, which every
kirk and familie lhall have for the inftruction of their children and fer-
vants, whereof they (hall give account before the Communion, and everv
one be examined conforme thereto.
7. That all children and fchools •fhall have and learn be heart the
Catechifm, intituled " God and the King;" which already, be Act of
Confell,1 is ordained to be read and taught in all fchooles.
1 In Juno 1616 : see the King's letter to the Privy Council, &e., in the Appendix to
the present Collection. The treatise here referred to has no claim to be styled a Cate-
chism : It was compiled by the King's command, and published in Latin, under the title.
" Deus et Rex : siue Dialogus," &c. London, 1G1C, small 8vo ; and iu English, as
" God and tiii: King : or a Dialogue shewing that our Soveraigne Lord Kiug James,
1616.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 483
8. That a Liturgie be made, and Form of divine fervice, which fhall
be read in every Church, in common prayer, and before preaching
every Sabbath, be the Reader, where there is one ; and where there is
none be the Minifter befor he conceive his oun prayer, that the com-
mon people may learn it, and by cuftom ferve God rightly.
9. That the Communion be celebrat four times ilk year in the burrow
touns, and twice in landwart ; and one of the times to be at Eafter
yearly. And if any communicat not once in the year, the Act of Par-
liament is to ftrike upon them with all feverity.
10. That there be a uniformity of Difcipline ; and to that effect the
Canons of the former Counfells and Aflemblies to be extracted ; and
where the fame are defective, to be fupplied be former Canons and
Ecclefiafticall meetings : For fetting doun whereof, the Commiffioners
following are ordained to conveen with the Bifhops, in Edinburgh, the
firft day of December next to come, viz. the Laird of Corfe, Mr John
Reid, Mr George Hay, Doctor Philip, Mr David Lindfay in Dundie,
Mr William Scott, Doctor Howie, Mr John Mitchelfon, Mr Patrick
Galloway, Mr John Hall, Mr Edward Hepburne, Doctor Abernethie, Mr
Robert Scott, Mr William Birnie, Mr William Arefkine, or the moft
part of them.
1 1 . For the help of the pofterity, and furtherance of religion, that a
fpecial care be taken of the Divinity Colledge in Sanct Andrews ; and
to that effect, that every Diocie fhall furnifh two Students, or fo many
as may make the number to extend to twenty fix ; and the half thereof
to be children of poor Minifters, to be preferred be the Bilhop of the
Diocie : provyding always, that thefe who are furnifhed within the
Province of Glafgow, that is to fay, the Diocies of Glafgow, Galloway,
Argile, and the Hies, fhall be brought up in the College of Glafgow ; and
not be aftricted to Sanct Andrews, but when they pais Doctours only.
being immediate under God within his Dominions, doth rightfully clairne whatsoever is
required by the Oath of Allegiance." London, 1616, small 8vo. — (Principal Lee's Me-
morial for the Bible Societies of Scotland, p. 73, Edinb., 1823, 8vo.)
184 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1616.
12. That none teach in pulpit publictly before the people, but thefe
that have received impofition of hands; and whomever does otherways
be incapable of the Miniftrv.
L8. That every Minifter fliall rninifler the Sacrament of Baptii'm
quhenfoever it lhall be required, under the pain of depofition; the god-
father promifing to inftruct the infant in the faith.
14. That every Minifter have a Regifler of baptifms, marriages, and
defuncts, within the Parifh, to be prefented to ilk Synod : For doing
whereof, it is ftatute, the Minifters, their wives, and executors fhall have
the Quotts and confirmation of their Teftaments free.1
CCCVI.— THE BISHOP OF CAITHNES TO JOHN MURRAY OF
LOCHMABEN.
RYCHT HONORABrLL AND LOWING BROTHER,
My hartlie commendations remembered : Pleis vow witt, we
hawe be God his grace this day, about twelifa clok, put all his Maiefties
direclionis that war to be intreatit in this Aflemblie to ane guid and
hap] tie conclufione. The wyfdome and authoritie off his Hienes Com-
miffioner, and the difcreitt cariag off my Lord off Sanctandrois, togid-
der with the filencing off the prowifione of the waking place off Aber-
din detening all expectants wilder hoipps, lies wrought grcatt forder-
ance in all the ferwicc heir. We do attend the Marques of Huntlie his
aiming heir the 21 of this inftant, quhar, iff his Lordfchip followe the
King his Maiefties directionis aright, all wilbe weill with him. I molt
1 The above Instructions were proposed to the General Assembly on the 10th August ;
" Quhilk being red in audience of the haill Asscmblie, they give most humble thanks
to his Majestic for the great care and solicitude his Majestie alwayes tooke for the
advancement of the glorie of God, and profession of the true Religion within this realme,
and holding downc and suppressing of Papistrie and superstition within the same." The
resolutions adopted by the Assembly, on the following day, arc contained in the Booke of
the Universal! Kirk, vol. ili. pp. 1125 — 1130.
1616.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 485
intreat yowe, eftir the reiding off theis leinis, with diligence to wreitt to
my Lord off Sanctandrois, to mak my tranflatione to Aberdin ' in Sanct-
androis, at our returning Southe, and fo muche the rather that fowme
off oiu* Expectants heir ar put in fuche hoippis, be my denyall off ony
fignatur paffit, that they hawe ftirred wp thair followeris off the Mini-
fterie to beigg fubfcriptionis off barronis and countrie men to ane fup-
plicatione to be directit to his Maieftie in generall, for provifione off
Aberdine ; and becaufe thair had went fowme furmifes that I aimed
at that place, they perfuaid the Minifterie heir that I ame to
muche addictit to Cowrt fafchionis and his Hienes iniunctions ; and
they go about to perfuad the Bifchoppis that I was the inftrument
off the Marques abfolutioune at Larnbethe, taking occafione, furthe off
ane parcell off letter off my Lord off Canterberries, quhairin his Grace
hes faid to muche (fo that I purpoife newer to fteall with his Grace
herefter), bot this to your felf. Iff the Marques prowe finceir in his
converfioune, I will acomtt that my prayfe quhilks they nowe fpeak
to my difgrace. Bot I car nocht for niifconftructionis in ony my
aclionis, quhairin I carye the teftimonie off ane guid confcience in
ferving God and my Prince. Thus to your wyfdome committing
the premilfes, my moft humble ferwice remembred to his Maieftie, I
reft ewir,
Your lowing brother ut antea,
A. B. Cathnes.
Aberdine, the 17 off Auguft 1616.
To his honorable and lowing brother, Johne
Murray off Lochmaben, on off his Maief-
ties bedchalmer.
1 The See of Aberdeen, vacant by the death of Bishop Blackburne (see page 473), to
which Forbes here acknowledges he had already been advanced, although with " ane
guid conscience," he thought it expedient to encourage the hopes of other expectants,
by the " denyal of any signature" in his favour having passed. His translation was
deferred till February 1617.
486 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1616.
CCCVIL— LORD BINNING TO KING JAMES.
Most Sacred Souekane,
What wes proceided in the National! Counfall, kept be your
Maiefties permiffion the lafl oulk in this town, wes fignified be my
letters of the 18 : No mater of moment then refting to be concluded
bot the Marqueis of Huntlies abfolution ; who cumming to this tbwne
vpon Tyfday at night, as wes appoynted, yefterday the two Archibif-
choppis, the Bifchop of Brechin, your Maiefties Deputie Thefaurer, the
Laird of Cors, and I, went to the Marqueis his ludgeing, and efter two
or thrie howres conference agried vpon the maner of his abfolution.
And meiting in the afternone, in public! AfTemblie, that mater being
proponed and modeftlie reafoned be fum of the precifeft fort, the Archi-
bifchop of Sanclandrois replyed fo wyfelie, and made fo tymelie vfe of
i'uin claufes of your Maiefties letter from Nottinghame, which be gude
fortune cume to his handis that fame day, that in end the abfolution
wes concluded, and the Marqueis compeirand, and granting his bypail
offence, promeiflng conftant perfeuerence in the true religion, which he
thair acknowledged and fubfcryved publiklie, the articles thairof ex-
hibited to him, in prefence of all the Affemblie, he wes abfolued, to
the exceiding great joy of all that wer prefent. This is one of the
worlds of your Maiefties moft excellent wifdome, whairfra all men ex-
fpeet gude helpis to the peace of the Eftate and Churche of this King-
dome.
All your Maiefties vther directions, being moft juft, realbnable, and
profitable for the cuntrie, wer allowed with fuch humilitie, hairtineffe,
t hankisgeving, and prayer to God for your Maiefties preferuation, and
long and happie raigne, as your Maiefties caire of the vniuerfall good of
the kingdome does obleis all faithful] fubieelis fincerelie to wifli. Many
have approuen thamefelues duetifull in this feruice, bot I owe particular
teftimonie to the Erie of Montrois his affection, and to his graue and
honorable behauiour; and to the Archibifchop of Sanclandrois his mo-
deftie, pacience, wifdome, and trauellis, whairby he fo conteaned the
1616.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 487
whole number within the boundis of duetie and obedience, as did great-
lie facilitat the good fucceffe of the buffines. So wifhing the lyke in all
your Maiefties intentions and directions, and that God may be gratioul-
lie pleafed long to bliffe ws with the continouance of your wyfe, jufte,
and gracious raigne, I reft,
Your moft Sacred Maiefties moft humblie faith-
full and bund feruand,
Aberdene, 22 Auguft [1616]. Binning.
CCCYHL— THE EARL OF MONTROSE TO KING JAMES.
Mat it please your Sacred Maiestie,
As I did prrefume to acquent your Hienes vith the progres of
the Affeniblie, from Aberdein, fo nou I doe, vith the finifching thairof,
which (according to that happie fucces vhairwith God hes aluayis
bliffed your Maiefteis moft gratious actionis) is concludit, vith great
contentment of all eftatis. The Marquis of Huntly keipitt the day
apoyntit, vhaire itt vas advyfitt that the Archbifchopis, with the Prse-
fident, and certane vtheris, fchould firft deall vith him to refolue his
doubtis, lyk as I did particularlie defyre him to remember your Maief-
teis gratious fauour touardis him, and obey your Hienes dire6Honis, he,
efter fum difficulties, condefcenditt to cum before the Affernblie, and
giue fatiffaclion ; vherein the Archbifchop of Sanctandrois did fo vyfelie
moderat, that the Marquis gaue humble obedience, and the Church re-
ceaued full contentment ; and efter opin reiding of thois thingis enacted,
according to your Maiefteis direction, and receawing of certen fpeciall
citizens of Aberdein fufpecl; of Poprie, and thair publick affenting to
the particular articles of the Confeffion of Faith eftablifchitt at this
Affernblie, the fam vas concluditt vith generall applaufe, all praifing
God, and praying for long continuance of your Maiefteis happie raing.
As to my felf, altho I haue bein villing at this tym to difcharge that
humble and faithfull deutie, vhich I am aluayis bund to perform in your
488 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1610.
Maiefteis feruice, yitt the good fucces of all dois onlie proceid from your
Maiefteis godlie, vyfe, and happie deffeingis, vhich the Lord fo vonder-
rullie profperis, that vc, your Maiefteia faithfull feruandis, ar more and
more encouragitt to proftrat our lywis for the aduancement of vhatfum-
euer your Maiefteis feruices, lyk as I doe particularlie acknawledge my
felf infinitlie tyed, to your Maiefteis moft gratious remembrance and
truft to me, vhich in all humble and faithfull obedience, fo long as I
leive, 1 fchall ftudie to deferue, and fchall be moft readie to feall vith my
blood. Remitting the more particular relatione to the Archbifchopis,
in all humilitie I kifs your Hienes handis, praying God for the long
continuance of your Maiefteis profperous eftate and happie raing
ouer vs.
Your Maiefteis moft humble and obedient
fubiet% and feruitour,
Newmontrofe, the 27 of Auguft 1616. Mont-rose.
To his moft Sacred Maieftie.
CCCIX.— OATH OF ALLEGIANCE TO HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES.
I doe fincerely confeffe and acknoweledge that King James is,
by the Devine will and providence, lawfully and by right of fucceffione,
the rightfull Kinge of Inglande, Scottland, and Irlande, and that in
thee bis dominions he hath the fupreme regal jurifdicSione ; and that,
jure rlivino et natural! , I am his fubiecle and vaffale ; and therforc I do
owe vnto bis Maiefty all trew and faithfull allegance, humble obedience,
and willingnes to feme his Maiefty trewly and faithfully, in warr or in
peace ; fo farre as any trew Chriftiane fubiecfe, by the laws of God
and Nature, are bound, and do owe vnto their proper and lawful]
Prince.
And if I lhould, vpon any occatione, perccaue or knowe any confperi-
1616.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 489
ces of treafone, ether againft his Maieftys peribne or ftate, I would not
only do my belt vnto revealle it, but would indeavoure to refill, hinder,
and fruftrate it to the vtermoft of my power.
And that if any perfone or perfons, publicke or private, fpirituall or
temporal! e, domefticke or forraine, fliould, vpon what titals or pre-
tences foever, by open or private forffe or practifes, atemte the difturb-
ance or everfione of his Maieftys perfone or ltate, I would, to the
vtermoft of my ability, ayde and defende his Maieftie, and fo long as
vitalle fpirits fhal giue power and ftrength to my arms to beare a
fworde, I will ftrike in his Maieftie fafegarde, and to the overthrow of
his enimies.
And notwithftanding any centuries, authorities, titles, or pretences
whatfoever ; of excommunications, or deprivations, or vfurpations, &c,
I will ever beare trew faith and loyale allegance to his Maieftie, and, as
is before fayde, will refifte his advarfaries vnjuft invafions, and defende
his perfone and ftate to the vtermoft of my ability.
And if ther be any thing elfe that is to be requirede, which a trew
Chriltiane Catholike fubiect ought or fliould do for the declaring of
his dewty and allegance to his lawfull and rightfull Kinge (that doth
no at this inftante occurre to my remembrance), the fame 1 do aknow-
ledge on my behalf to be dew vnto his Maieftie.
Befied, as I haue the honore to be a fworne fervant to his Maieftie, I
do aknowledge my felf bound to all that in my faide Othe I am
fworne vnto, and whatfover elfe may be juftly required of a trew Chril-
tiane and faithfull Servant to his Soueraine Lord and Maifter.1
CCCX — THE RECTOR OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST ANDREWS, AND
PROFESSORS, TO JOHN MURRAY.
RTCHT WORSCHIPFULL,
Our maift humble deutie off feruice being commendit to your
worfchip, pleafe your worfchip, Mr Doctor Young lies affurit vs off ten
1 There is no signature, indorsation, or date to this paper.
■3q
490 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1616.
lit)8 Sterlingis worthe oft' bukes to be given to your worfchip to our
Bibliothec, for quhilk caus we think our felftis grettumly addebbit to
your worfchip ; and not only we, bot all tbofe that huff learning in this
kingdome. And beeaus we are not able to requyt your worfchipis fa
great liberalitie but by thankfull remenibrans, we fall, God willing, mak
the memorie off it continue fa lang as this Vniuerfitie fall Hand or
learning continue in this Kingdome ; befyid that we fall pray to God for
the continuans oft' your Eftait and weilfair, and iff thair be any thing
quhairin our fervice can be fteadable to your worfchip, your worfchip
fall have us alwav to command as
Your Worfchips maift humble and deutifull fervandis,
Robert Hovye, D., Rector of the Vniverfitie
of San6tandrous.
Peter Bruce, D., Deane oft1 Facultie.
David Barclay, D. of Divinitie. and Miniiter
of Santandrews.
James Blaire, D. of Divinitie, and Profeifor
ordinar therof.1
St Androwis. Auguft 28, [1616].
To the rycht worfchipfull Maifter Jhone
Murray, off his Maiefties bedchalmer,
our mekill refpe6t.it and very gud freind.
1 On the 29th July 1616, the writers of the above letter, along with Mr James Mar-
tin, Principal of St Salvator's College, Mr Patrik Melvine or Melville, Professor of
ll'livw in the New College, St Andrews, Mr John Strang, Minister of Errol, afterwards
Principal of the College of Glasgow, Mr Henry Philip, Minister of Arbroath, anil Mr
Theodore Hay, Minister <>t' Peebles, and Archdcan of Glasgow, were created Doctors of
Divinity, at St Andrews. " This noveltie (says Caldcrwood) was brought in amongst us
without advise or consent of the Kirk. Doctor Young was the dircctour of the solem-
nities of thi> action." — (History, vol. vii. p. 222, vol. viii. p. 95.) This was Dr John
Young, Dean of Winchester : Sec note to a subsequent letter, in August 1618.
1616.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 491
CCCXL— MR JOHN WEMYSS, COMMISSARY OF ST ANDREWS, TO
KING JAMES.
May it please your most Sacred Maiestie,
The fupplicant, your Maiefties humble fervand and fubjecT;, molt
earneftly, vpon the knees of his hairt, befcechis your Maieftie now to
opportunely accomplifhe, quhat it pleafed your Maieftie fome yeirs agoe
gratioufly to promeiffe anent the promoving of him to ane Ordinair
place of Seffione,1 how foone any fould happen to vaick, ather be death
or demiffione : he is thareof moft ambitioufly delirous (and ane repulfe
will breed vnto him vnfpeakable, yea, almaiit remedyles greif), not,
he atteftis God, quha is KapSiaypaxrTj'i, in refpect of onie advantage
in honour or geir quhich may redounde to him be the laid place,
but as it may be ane token of your Maiefties favour and accept-
ance of his bypaft, he will not fay, effects, bot affectione into your
Maiefties fervice, and alfo as thairin he may have occafione to forder
manifefte his dewtieful difpofitione in ane more remarquable man-
ner, yea, and fheifly becaus be the advanceing of him thairto, thofe
quho are alyke affected falbe grittumly incowraged, and the ennemies to
your Maiefties fervice, and to him for his fordwardnes in the fame, fall
want caus of deriding and glorieing in the difappoyntment of his pur-
pofe, quhich vtherwayes fould be offered to them, to the fore difcontent-
ment and dejectione of the Supplicant, and to wthers your Maiefties
fincere fervands. The Supplicant, as he wifhes, fo he is induced to hope for
ane gude anfwer from your Maieftie theranent, not only be your Maief-
ties gratious letters of promeis, and the report of fome of your Maiefties
Counfellers, quho have bene loving follifters for him, but alfo be the con-
fcience of his owne inclinatione and defyre, in ane more eminent jdace
to ferve God and your Maieftie, quhairwith he hopes God hes not in
1 Probably in reply to the letter, in 1612, from his father-in-law, Gladstanes, Archbishop
of St Andrews, urging Wemyss of Craigtoun's claims for advancement, which is printed
in this collection as No. CLXXXIII. Excepting the signature, the original letter is in
the handwriting of Wemyss himself.
492 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1616.
vain endowed him. As concerning his abilitie and power to ferve, not
willing to be impudently imprudent in prayfing hira felf, he rcferris him
to the declaratione of thofe quho have bene witnefs to his cariage thefe
eight yeirs bygone, in the inferior places of judicatorie quhilks he hea
poffeffed, to the examinatione (and that in the ftrieteft forme, if fo feeme
expedient), of thofe quho have credite of your Maieftie, to cognofce
vjioii the fufficiencie of the gifts of perfons prefented to the fuperiour
rowmes, and principally to your Maiefties awne determinatione, if your
Maiefties weachtier affaires have permitted your Maieftie to confidder
that Treatife,1 quhiche a few days finee he wes hold to offer vnto your
Maieftie, quhairin your Maieftie, he beleevis, fall find ane cleare (albeit
ihort), Theologick and Juridick, both probatione of the lawful power,
alfwell ecclefiaftick as civile, of Supreme Princes, and of the deutie of
fubordinate Magiftrats, Judges, and people, and lykwayis improbatione
of the vfurped power of the people and Eftaits, or of the Pope and the
Churche, and fua ane refutatione of all fuch as are Movap^ofiaxoi, Jefuits,
Puritains, and popular Proteftants. Your Maieftie, I doubt not, will
forgive the Supplicant thus pleading for his qualificatione, feeing he lies
no vthcr end, than the obteening of your Maiefties favour, quhiche may
minifter vnto him the fitter occafion of ferving your Maieftie. Now,
then, may it pleafe your Maieftie, Gude Souueraine, for Chryft liis fake.
to have pitie vpon ane devoted fervand, having fome warrand of the
exfpectatione of grace at your Maiefties hands, and the rather that,
togidder with difcredite, quhairof ane generous mynd is ever impatient,
he has fuffered great damage and decay in moyens, throuche vnprofper-
1 Wemys's Treatise on the Royal Supremacy in Civil anil Ecclesiastical Affairs was
not published until a few months, probably, before the Author's death. The title-
page runs as follows: — " BA2IAEA2 TllI'.l'OXII. Sive de Regis Primatu Libellus: in
quo gumma Regis secundum Deuni authoritas, cum in Civilibus turn in Ecclesiasticis,
Bupra et Populum et Clerum, breviter et methodice probatur. Authore I)no Joanne
Wemio de Craigtoune Scoto, in Supremo apud Scotos coneessu juridico, Senatore, et in
intimo Regis Consistorio, Consiliario. Edinburgh excudebat Thomas Finlason, August.
Regies Majest. Typographus. 1023. Cum privilegio." 4to. It is dedicated to the
King's favourite, Sir George Villiers, Marquess, afterwards Duke of Buckingham, through
whose influence it maybe inferred, from his expressions of gratitude, the author had
obtained his judicial appointment.
1616.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 493
oufly hithertill luting your Maiefties once intendit beneficence. If your
Maieftie thinke yourfelf vtherwayis ingaged, be reafon of ane promeis
maid in the behalf of ane vther, fuperiour, it may weill be, to the Suppli-
cant in eftait, but not in love and refpect to your Maiefties Royall per-
fone and prerogative, the Supplicant humbly intreats your moil jufte and
wyfe Maieftie to remember that (with your Maiefties permifllone, qui
domitius es juris), it is rerjula juris quod prior tempore (as is the Suppli-
cant his cafe) sit potior jure, and that the adhering to the richt quhiche
the vther may feeme to have be your Maiefteis promeis, may prejudge
the Supplicant, and no wayis bcnefite the vther, thcr being for the pre-
fent no place to vaik, except be the voluntarie deed of the Supplicant
his neer Cufing," befyde that, appeirantly ere it be long, your Maieftie
will get occafione, be the death of fome Senatour, to conveniently per-
forme alio that vther promeis. But quia verbum sapienti potissimum
Regi, sat est, leaft I empefche too much your Maiefties eyes (quhois
ears I can not have the honour for ony fpace to enioye), I ende, from
the bottome of my hairt, praying to the Almichtie that he wald con-
tinwe his fpirituall and temporall bleffings vpon your Maieftie, and I
remaine,
Sire,
Your Maiefties moil devoted fervand and fubject,
Jo. Wemis, Commiffaire of Sanct Andrews.
1 This letter has no date, but it evidently preceded the following one, which is dated
in September 1616. The Lord of Session to whom Wemyss here alludes as his relation,
and who was willing to resign in his favour, must have been Andrew Wemyss of Myre-
eairnie, who was raised to the bench in November 1591. There is a blank at this period
in the Books of Adjournal, which might otherwise have cleared up this point. Lord
Myrecairnie's name last occurs in a Sederunt of the Court, 1st March 1615. — (Senators
of the College of Justice, p. 221.) His actual successor seems to have been Sir George
Erskine of Invertild, whose name appears in the Sederunt 15th March 1617 ; but whether
his appointment took place on the death or the resignation of the former, is uncertain.
494 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1616.
CCCXII.— MR JOHN WEMYSS OF CRAIGTOUX TO JOHN MURRAY OF
LOCHMABEX.
RlCHT HoNORABILL SlK,
Pleafe yow (the affurance quhich I have of your proineili'ed
avour, albeit wndeferved as yet be me, imboldening me to trouble
vow), I muft humblie intreatte yow, that the King his Maieftie may be
moved, quhen his Hienes weachtier affaires may permitte, to honour my
litle Trcatifc with his eyes, to the effeel his Hienes approveing it, I may
put the fame to licht : ' As alio, that this Maieftie may be induced, for
comforting me, lb farre praejudgit be my dilappoyntment,2 to make
knowne, be his letters to my Lords Chancellour and Praefident, his
gratious pleafour anent my promotione in tyme cuming, as I have
written heiranent to my Lord Duke of Lenox : Thus, fra the bottome
of my hairt, praying the Almiehtie to continowe his blefllngis vpon your
perfon and eftait, I reft,
Your molt affeclioned fervanci,
M. J. Wemis.
Sanctandrois, 18 September 1616.
To the richt honorable Jhone Murray of
Lochmaben, one of his Maiefties bed-
chalmer, Thefe.
1 See note to the preceding letter, p. 492.
- The death of Sir Alexander Drummond of Medhope, in July 1619, at length enabled
the Laird of Craigtoun to obtain his wishes. The Earl of Melros, on the 16th of that
month, in intimating this vacancy to the King, urges delay in making any new appoint-
ment, till the begi ning of the next session, that " the qualities of the pretendants"
might lie tried, in respect " the present estate of the Session requires the election of ;c
mail learned in the lawes and praktik, no age having sene so few in that Senate endewed
will those qualities as this time.'' Wemyaa was preferred, and took his seat in Xovem-
l"T ltill). lie was afterwards knighted ; but he did not long enjoy his honours, having
died before December 1623.
1616.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 495
CCCXIIL— THE LORDS OF PUIVY COUNCIL TO KING JAMES.
Pleas your Sacred Maiestie,
Vpoun reffett of your Maiefteis letter, writtin vnto ws in fauours
of the Archiebifchop of St Androis, anent the reftoiring and repoffeffing
of him to that affignatioun of vi<5tuall quhilk is difponit furth of the
Thriddis of his benefice to the Caftell of Edinburgh, and for prouiding
of the faid Caftell with als mutche goode rent oute of your Maiefteis
rentis, we conferrit at lenth with the faid Archiebifchop, and with the
Erll of Mar, Capitane of the said Caftell, thairanent, and after dew
examinatioun and confideratioun of the eftate of this mater, we find that
the Erll of Mar is verye weele prouidit to the faid Affignatioun be
warrand and authoritie of Parliament, and to difpofl'es him of a conftant
and hire rent vnder pretext of that whilk wilbe vncertane, and to dis-
pone the fame to the faid Archiebifchop, nather can the one nor the
vther be availlable of the law : Becaus this affignatioun maid to the
faid Caftell is not onlie annext thairunto be Parliament, as faid is ; but
lykewayes in that fame Parliament of the Sax hundreth and fax yeir of
God, whairin the Bifchopps reftoirit to thair levingis and digniteis,
thair is a fpeciall and particular referuatioun and exceptioun of the
affignationis and referuationis being yitt in force, vnquarrellit or dif-
chargeit by any fubfequent Parliament. Thair can no thing be done
preiudiciall thairunto but be a Parliament. Alwayes feeing it is
your Maiefteis gratious will and pleafour to gratifie the faid Archie-
bifchop in this poynte, whairof we weale allow, owre opinion is,
that in place of this affignation maid to the faid Caftell, your Maieftie
fall gif vnto him ane penfioun owte of youre Maiefties rentis, anfuerable
in proportion to the faid affignation to be broukit be him allanarlie
vntill a Parliament ; at whilk tyme fuche folide and goode courfe may
be then tane for the full and perfyte fecuritie of both partyis, bothe
anent the reftitutioun and repoffeffing of the faid Archiebifchop to his
awne patrimonie and rent, and anent a new prouifioun to be maid to
youre Maiefteis faid Caftell as falbe thoght expedyent. Bot in this, as
196 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1610.
in all otheris thingis, fubmitting owre lellfis to your Maiefteis more
excellent iudgement, and humelie praying God to bliffe your Maieftie
with a long and happie reigne, we reft
Yowr Maiefteis moil humble and obedyent,
fubiecHs and fervitouris,
Al. Cancells. Binning.
George Hay. G. Murray.
S. W. Oliphant.
Edinburgh, 20 December 1010.
To the King his moft Sacred
and excellent Maieftie.
CCCXrV.— HIS MAJESTY TO THE BISHOPS AND MINISTERS OF
EDINBURGH.
[In the view of his Majesty revisiting his native Kingdom, in 1G17. Spottiswood says,
•■ Among other directions sent from the King, one was for repairing of the Chap-
pell [Royal of Holyrood], and some English carpenters were employed, who brought
with them the Pourtraicts of the Apostles, to be set up iu the pews or stalls. As
they were proceeding in their work, a foolish and idle rumour went, that Images
were to be set up in the Chappel : and, as people are given to speak the worst, it was
current among them, that the Organs came first, note the Images, and ere long they
thotdd have the Muss. The Bishop of Galloway, then Dean of the Chappel, moved
witli these speeches, did pen a letter to the King, entreating his Majesty ' for the
offence that was taken to stay the affixing of these Pourtraicts.' To this letter he
procured the subscriptions of the Archbishop of S. Andrewes, the Bishops of Aber-
deen and Brechin, and divers of the Ministers of Edinburgh.
" The answer returned by the King was full of anger, objecting ignorance unto
them that could not distinguish betwix Pictures intended for Ornament and decora-
tion, and Jmages erected for Warship and adoration," &c. — (History, p. 530.)
The letter to the King is, unfortunately, not preserved, but the following reply
sufficiently indicates the purport of the remonstrance. Neither has the Archbishop
Canterbury's letter, mentioned by Cowper, in No. CCCXV., been discovered.]
1617.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 497
Eight reverend Father in God, right truftie and welbeloued
Counfellour, and reverend Fatheris in God, and right truftie and welbe-
loued, and otheris Oure truftie and welbeloued, "Wee greete yow well.
When "Wee receaued and perufed your letter of the 26 of Februare laft,
concerning the graven worke of wode intendit for decoring of Oure faite
in Oure Chapell at Halirudehoufe, Wee were at firft affrayed that fome
of the dire&ours or workemen had bene Papiftis ; and fo, without Oure
knowledge, had intendit there to ere6t fuch idolatrous images and paint-
ed pictures as thofe of that profeffion are in vfe to adore : But when
Wee had better confidered, and exacllie tried what wes done, "Wee find
but a falfe alarrae, and that caufles feares had made yow ftart at your
owne fliadowes. Yet feing a charge is commandit of that worke, vpon
notice given to Vs, by the Maifter of Oure Workes here, of the difficultie
and longfumnes thereof, leift Oure filence and not anfuering of your let-
ter might be interprited for a kind of confent or approbatioun of what
yee wryte thereanent, and to the effect, that the command of that alter-
ation fhall not be thoght to haue proceidit frome any fuch conceate in
Vs as yee are poffeft with, "Wee haue thoght good hereby to certifie yow
that Wee wes not induced therto vpon any fuch ground or confidera-
tion, but meerlie becaufe of the mifdoubte conceaued, that the worke
could haue bene fo well or fo foone done in that kind, as in the forme
now directed. And therefore doe not deceave your felues with a vaine
imagination of any thing done therein for eafe of your hartis or ratifie-
ing your errour in your iudgment of that graven worke, whiche is not
of ane idolatrous kinde, like to Images and painted Pictures adored and
wourfhipped by Papiftis, but meerelie intendit for ornament and deco-
ration of the place where Wee mould fitte, and might haue bene wrtjght
afwell with figures of lyones, dragonis, and diuellis, as with thofe of
Patriarches and Apoftles. But as Wee muft wonder at your igno-"
ranee, and teach yow thus to diftinguifhe betwene the one and the
other, fo are Wee perfwaded that none of yow wold haue fcandalized or
offendit, if the faidis figures of lyones, dragonis, and diuellis had bene
carued and put vp in lieu of thefe of the Patriarches and Apoftles ; refem-
bling in this the Conftable of Caftile, who being fent here to fweare the
peace concludit betwene Vs and Spaine, when he vnderftood that this
3k
498 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1617.
behoved to be folemnlie performed in Oure Chapell, be foirfaw likwife
that tben fome antbemis wold be lung, and therefore protefted before
bis entrie of Our Chapell, tbat what ever wer fung Godis name might
not be vfit in it, and fo as that wer foirborne wes content that they
ihould ling what elfe they lifted : Yee could likwife endure the diuell
or monfteris to be figured for ornament of your churches, but can not
allow that patriarches or apoftles mould haue the like place or accefl'e
therein, the verie reporte wherof (as yee write) hath animated Papiftis,
and fo fair greived and offendit all true profeffouris, as yee are not able
to cxpretfe the offence taiken thereat, adding, that the like earned
worke is in none of Our Chapellis here. But as Wee haue laid
vncugh alreadie to cleare your errour in the firft, fo to lett yow fie
your miftaiking in the lafi, thefe fhall certifie yow that in Oure Chapell
here at Whithall, and molt pairte of all Oure other Chapellis in this
Ivingdome, the like ornament is vfed, and euen the apoftles portraitis
to be fene fo carued and fette vp for adorning the fame, thogh Wee
neuer obferued, nor knew it, till your letter gaue Vs occafion to mak
triell and informe Oure felues thereof. And trulie Wee wonder that at
this tyme yee will fo idlie buffie your felues to find matter of fcruple
where there is none, when yee haue rather occafion to reioyce, and fill
others with ioye, for Oure fo neir approching cuming thither. Nather
will Wee euer think that any good profeflbur there will fufpect or (of-
fer him felfe to be pofleft with fo ridiculous a conceite as once to fancie
that Wee will doe any thing for encouradgement of Papiftis, or intro-
duction of any pairt of their idolatrie in the Churches of Our domi-
nions ; for it is manifeft to the world that Wee haue endevoured no-
thing fo ferioufiie as to repreffe and ftay the grouth of Poprie, to eneou-
radge true profeffouris, and keip and confirme them in the profeffion
of tlic truth, pure and trie from all corruption, either of Papifte or the
other oppofite. This Wee think no man will not acknowledge, and yf
what is elfe faid will not fuffeis for perfite fatiffaclion and clearing yow of
all doubto in the abouewrittin poyntis, Wee hope to bring to that
kingdome with Vs Inch as, by there knowledge and doctrine, ihall
refoloe and perfoade yow and all others of your coate and profeffion
i that will reieft inftruction and remayne blind in a wilful] ignorance) of
1617.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 499
the vndoubted warrant of thefe and the like poyntis. And whereas yee
wryte that the bringing in of organes wes hardlie taiken at firft be
many of Oure people, but that yee knowing Oure pleafure wes fuch, and
the indifferencie thereof, hade made them that offendit to be quiet,
Wee muft pray yow to excufe Vs yf Wee giue yow not thankis for fo
fingulare a peice of good fervice, as no doubte yee conceaue that to be ;
and wold fayne know yf Oure aclionis haue fo greived or eftranged Oure
peopleis affectionis, as that therefore Wee haue neid of your mediation
betwene Vs and them. No, fure ; for they haue experience of Oure
favour, and Wee of their love, fo as nather the one nor the other is to
be doubted of. But be the way, Wee can not omitt here the remem-
berance of the fevintene day of December,1 and by that dayes experience
to tell yow, that as the paftor, not the people, is the caufe of their mil-
leading, fo Wee doubte not to giue them contentment, and that at Oure
being there they will in fuch poyntis rather truft Vs, and conforme
them felues to Oure fo well warranted defires, nor the paffion of any
preacher there of whatfoeuer degrie. In conclufion, when yee wryte
hereafter, yee fhall doe well to weigh and vnderftand better what yee
wryte nor appeirandlie yee haue clone in this purpofe ; and fo Wee
committ yow to God.
Frome Oure Courte at Whithall,
the 13th of Marche 1617.
CCCXV THE BISHOP OF GALLOWAY TO MR PATRICK SYMSON,
MINISTER OF STIRLING.
Eight Honourable and Loving Brother,
I received a letter from Thomas Ewing of Cookfpow, which
albeit it wants a fubfcription, yit, by the hand-writt, and the ftile, and
the purpofe, I knew it to be yours. Concerning Images, we haue gotten
them difcharged, upon a letter we wrote, fubfcribed by the Bilhops, Mr
1 The tumult in Edinburgh, on the 17th December 1596.
500 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1617-
Patrik Galloway, and Mr Johne Hall ; but yit, with a fharpe rebuke,
and checke of ignorance, both from his Majeftie and Canterburie, calling
our fkarring at them, Scandalum aceeptum, sed non datum. Wc beare the
reproofe the more patientlie, becaus we have obteaned that which we
craved. What I wrott of Auguftinus Junior, if I remember right, was
not for Images, bot of other Romilh toyes of Capes, Surplices, Altars,
etc., wherewith our Kirk was not fpotted three hundreth yeares after
him. For reuftance of thefe, and confirming alfo our refufall of Images
to be moft reafonable, and upon knowledge, I pray you take fome paines,
that feing we cannot alway have yourfelf,1 at leaft your information may
helpe us. The King in his letter has boafted us with his Englifh Doc-
tours, who (as he fayes) fall inftrucT; us in thefe and in other points,
except we refufe inftruction. God make us wife and faithfull, and keepe
us from their ufurpation over us, which now is evidentlie perceived, and
hardlic taken by us all. Concerning our commiffion, I fall do what I
can ; but St Androes will not be here before the tenth or twelfth of
Aprile. I pray you againe, remember to help us out of your talent, and
lialte it in hither. So refts
Your owne in the Lord,
W. B. Galloway.
.March 26, 1617.
To the right honourable his loving bro-
ther, Mr Patrik Simfone, Minifler at
Sterline.
1 Symson (who was then in a delicate state of health, and died in the following
year) had already published, in three separate portions, " A Short Compend" of
the History of the Church, during the first nine centuries, printed at Edinburgh, by
\nlr.i Hart, in the years 1613, 1G15, and 1G1G, 4to. In each of these portions, he added
■ Treatises, clearly declaring the Noueltic of Popish Religion;" but he did not live to
continue the History, when his Treatise on the Worship of Images might have appeared.
These three portions were republished in a single volume, at London, 1024, folio, and
again in 1 G34, under the general title of " The History of the Church since the dayes of
our Saviour Jesus Christ, until this present Age."
1617.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 501
CCCXVL— THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO KING JAMES.
Sire,
May it pleife your Maieftie : the Erie of Arrol hafing fatiffeit
the Churche in fuche thingis as wer prefently requyrit of him, is abfolvit
from his Excomrnunicatioun at St Andrews, this fecund of Apryl;
qhairvpon we ar humbly to intreat your Maieftie, that ane command
may he dire&it to the Lordis of your Hienes Counfel, to enlarge him
from his confyninges, and he may inioy the freedom of a good fubiecl,
qhiche we hope in God he fal proove. So moft humbly kiffinge your
Maiefties hand, I tak my leave.
Your Maiefties moft obedient fervitour,
Sanctandrews.
St Andrews, the 3 Apryl 1617.
To his moft Sacred Maieftie.
CCCXVH.— PROTESTATION OF MINISTERS FOR THE LIBERTIES OF
THE KIRK, TO THE PARLIAMENT HELD AT EDINBURGH, 17th JUNE
1617.
[Calderwood, in his History, says, " Upon the 17th of June, the King and the Estats,
after their ryding in pompe from the Palace of Halyrudhous to the Tolbuith or
Parliament House, about two afternoone, the Erie of Argile caried the crowne, the
Erie of Marre the scepter, and the Erie of Rothesse the sword. After they had
entered in, Mr Johne Spottiswoode, Bishope of St Androes, had a short sermone,
wherein he praised the King for his great zeale and care to settle the estate of the
Kirk, and exhorted the Estates to hold hand to him. Thereafter, the King himself
had a harrangue, wherein he expressed the great desire he had to visite this realme,
to see the Kirk settled, the countrie reduced to good order, lawes needing refor-
mation reformed, for the good of his subjects. The Chancelour followed with
502 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1617.
his harangue." The historian then details at some length the occasion of the fol-
lowing Protestation, when the Ministers assembled from different parts of the
Country had found that, contrary to repeated assurance, an article was agreed upon
by the Lords of the Articles, to be submitted to Parliament, " which was like to
cutt the cordes of the remanent liberties of our Kirk."
The names of the Ministers who approved of this Protestation were kept by Mr
Archibald Symson, in a separate roll, for his warrant, " by so manic of the Mini-
steris as were present at that meeting, or could convenientlie be had in the toun ;
for the greittest part and best affected were gone home, upon the assurance made
unto them, as I haue said."]
Most Gkacious and dkeade Soveraigne, most Honourable Lords, and
remanent commissioners of this present parliament,
We, the Minifters of Chryft's Evangel, being heir conveened
from all parts of this your Majeftie's kingdome, doe in all fubmiffion and
reverence intreate your Majeftie and Honours patient and favourable
herring of this our reafonable and humble Supplication. And firft, it
will pleafe your Hienes and honourable Eftates heir prefentlie conveened
be informed, that we are heir a number of the Minifters out of all the
parts of this kingdome ; and that the Bifhops have protefted, fince our
coming, to a great manie of us, that nothing fould be agreed upon, or
confented to, by them in this prefent Parliament in maters concerning
the wholl Kirk, the Difcipline and Order therof, without our fpeciall
knowledge and advyfe ; affirming alio, that neither they nor we have
power of confent in anie innovation, or fmalleft change of the Order of
our Kirk eftablifhed, without fpeciall advyfe and determination of the
Generall Affemblie, reprefenting the bodie of the Kirk of the kingdome,
had therunto. Wherupon we, refting in fecuritie, have receaved now a
fudden report, to our great aftoniihment, of ane Article to pas in conclu-
lion, and to receive the force of a law in this prefent Parliament, decern-
ing and declaring, " That your Majeftie, with advyfe of the Archbiihops,
Bifhops, and Inch a competent number of the Miniftrie as your Majeftie
i Hit of your wildomc fall think expedient, fall in all tyme coming have
full power to advife and conclude in all maters decent for the externall
Policie of the Kirk, not repugnant to the Word of God ; and that fuch
conclufions fall have tin' ftrength and power of Eccleiiafticall lawes."
WTxerin it will pleafe your Majeftie and honorable Eftates to heare our
1617.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 503
juft greeves, and confider our reaibnable defire, and not to put us, your
Majeftie's humble and loving fubjects, to that poore and fnnple point of
Proteftation, which, if remedie be not provydit, we muft be forced to ufe
for the freedome of our Kirk, and difcharge of our confcience.
"We then firft pleade reformation and puritie in our Kirk, in Doctrine,
in miniftration of the Sacraments, in Difcipline, and all convenient Order,
with the beft reformed Kirks in Europe, which may ftand, and have
been acknowledged rather as a paterne to be followed of others, than
that we fould feeke our reformation from anie that never attained to that
perfection, which in the mercie of God this long tyme bygone, under
your Hienes, we have injoyed, and are able by reafone to maintaine the
fame.
!N~ixt, We pleade the libertie of our Kirk, which by the lawes of your
Majeftie's kingdome, and diverfc Acts of Parliaments given furth in
favour of the fame, is eftablifhed, with power of public!; meetings and
Generall Affemblies, and allowance to make fuch Canons and Conftitu-
tions as may ferve for the comelie order and decencie of the fame ; all
which, by this conclufion to be taken, muft be utterlie overthrowne.
Thridlie, We pleade for the peace and tranquillitie of our Kirk, which,
being neereft the Divyne and Apoftolicke inftitution, hath flourifhed with-
out fhifms or rentings in it felfe ; and by introduction of anie noveltie,
not orderlie, nor as appertaineth, may be miferablie rent, and our peace
broken.
Fourthlie, We have beene at diverfe tymes fufficientlie l'ecured from
all fufpicion of innovation, as by your Majeftie's letter the laft winter
fent doun to this countrie, to take away all feare of anie alteration
which might arife upon your Majeftie's lovinglie intended journey;
which letter, by your Majeftie's fpeciall will, and direction of the fpe-
cialls of your Majeftie's Counfell, is elfewhere intimated in our pulpits.
As alfo, by that proclamation given out the 26th day of September
1605, when rumours of ane intended conformitie with the Kirk of Eng-
land was fpread abrode : Wherin your Majeftie fufficientlie avoyded all
fuch fufpicion ; and the hearts of all honeft men fettled themfelves in a
confidence, that noe fuch thing foidd be attempted.
Thefe, and manie other Eeafons, have moved us, in all reverence, by
504 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1617.
this our humble Supplication, to intreate your Hienes and honorable
Eftates, not to fufter the fornamcd Article, nor anie other prejudicial to
our liberties formerlie granted, to pane at this tyme, to the greefe and
prejudice 'of this our poore Kirk, wherby the univerfall joy of raanie thou-
lands in this land, who rejoiced at your Majeftie's happie arriving heir,
fall be turned into murning. Wherein as we are earneft Supplicants to
God, to inclyne your Majeftie's heart this way, as the moft expedient
for the honour of God, and the weill of the fubjects ; fo, if we fall be
fruftrate of this our reafonable defire, then doe we in all humilitie, with
that duetifull acknowledgement of our loyaltie to your Majeftie as
becomes, protcft for our felfs, and all our Brethren that fall adhere to
our Proteftation ; that as we are frie of the fame, fo mull we be forced
rather to incurre the cenfure of your Majeftie's law, than to admitt or
obtemper anie impofition that fall not flow from the Kirk orderlie con-
veened, having power of the fame.
[M. Archibald Symson, Minifter of Dalkeith,
in name of the Brethren and Supplicants.]
THE NAMES OF THESE WHO SUBSCRIBED IN THE ROLL, JUNE 27, 1017-
Masters Patrik Galloway, Johne Hall, Andro Ramfay, William Stru-
tliers, Robert Scott, Jhone Balfoure, Robert Colvine, Thomas Sydferfe,
Henric Blyth, George Grier, Jhone Aird, James Burnet, Archibald
Symfone, William Black, Simeon Jhonson, William Arthure, William
Weemes, George Dumbare, Jhone Scrimgeour, James Inglis, William
Knox, Jhone Smith, Michael Wallace, Patrik Shaw, Johne Alexander,
Robert Murray, Charles Lumildaine, Patrik Hammiltoun, David Cal-
derwode, Johne Ker, Walter Whvtlbrde, Jhone Chalmers, James Por-
teous, Luke Sonfie, James Land), William Guild, William Dowglas,
Jhone Merfer, George Chalmers, James Robertfonc, Henrie Livingftoun,
Jhone Chciney, Francis Collace, William Juftice, Jhone Weymes, Alex-
ander Forreft, William Jamifone, Alexander Keith, Andro Balfour,
Robert Rough, Robert Hsereffe, Theodore Hay, Adam Simfone, James
FVenche, William Scott (a minifter in the Weft).
1617.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 505
CCCXVIII.— MR ARCHIBALD SYMSON, MINISTER OF DALKEITH, TO
THE COURT OF HIGH COMMISSION, IN JULY 1617.
[Of those Ministers who approved the Protestation, here printed as No. CCCXVIL.
Symson, Calderwood, and Hewat, as the persons who had taken the chief share in
proposing or urging its adoption, were summoned before the Court of High Com-
mission, on the 12th of July. Symson being unable to attend the meeting, had
addressed the Archbishop and Bishops in the following letter. " The Bishop of
St Androes was so enraged at this letter, that he delivered it to the King, whereupon
two of the guarde were directed to bring him to St Androes, which was done with
diligence. He was deprived, and ordained to be wardit in Aberdeene." Hewat
having also adhered to the Protestation, was confined in Dundee. The harsher sen-
tence of banishment was pronounced on Calderwood, who records at great length in
his History these proceedings, and the unsuccessful exertions made by his friends to
have his own sentence remitted, (vol. vii. p. 257 — 283.) Four of the Ministers of
Edinburgh, Hall, Galloway, Struthers, and Ramsay, were afterwards sent for ; but
they " craving his Majestie's favour, on their knees, and acknowledging the offence
they had committed, gott a kisse of the King's hand."]
Cum mihi, reverendiffimi Domini et Patres, prse colica paffione
imam ex itinere infueto prajfertim inaritimo, contraxi, ad diem indicium
convenire non licuerit, hanc epiftolam excufatoriam quam diclitavi, ad-
mittite. Novi nullum inter vos me odiffe, neque quenquam veftrum odi,
fed colui et dilexi : Caufa tantum nos diftinguit. Ego iterum atque
iterum teftatus fum, Conventionem illam Fratrum legitimam fuiffe, vobis
etiam confentientibus, proteftationem omnibus omnium generum libe-
ram in re aequa ex lege Canonica permiffam : unde nos ab omnibus
etiam adverfariis, Proteftantes dicimur. Petrus Euartus fcripfit, ego
fubfcripfi, jam refcribo ; neuter in hoc peccavit, neque quemvis Fra-
trum affentientium aut poenitet, aut pudet : et ut vere dicam, erudi-
tiffimi bujus regni Paftores, reliquique omnes qui manum non admoverunt,
unanimi confenfu has imponendas Ceremonias execrantur. Videte, mi
Patres, quid fit novam rupturam, priore vix de vobis ipfis compofita, in
Ecclefia facere. Enixe precor Deum, et Regiam facram Majeftatem
moneatis, ne fubitanea hac impofitione novitatis, ferenitatem Scoticana?
3 s
506 ORIGINAL LETTEKS RELATING [1617.
in i'e charitatis obnubilet, ct ne vos, tanquam primarios bujus Anglicana
conformitatis adminiftros, mutatis mutandis more Anglieano, publico
omnium ordinum odio, ne dicam, ludibrio exponat. Non dicam cum
Paulo, confundantur ; fed Elienfi curru in coelos efferantur, qui nos per-
turbant. Rcdcant bi Anglici Epifcopi et Diaconi, et fuis tricis fe oblec-
tent ; nos Cbriftiana puritate et imitate gaudeamus. Quod fi lmic mese
admonitioni non affenferitis, (quod abfit), ego, cum Marco Attilio
Regulo, Cartbaginem repetiturus, et, ne fuperbe infultem, liberrime in
ipfis carceribus, fi vultis victurus, et vitam banc jam ferme finitam termi-
nare, fi Deus velit conftitui. Si quid aliud vultis, detur buic tabellario,
egoque die mibi prefcripto, fi pro valetudine poflum, comparabo.
Valete.
Veftri Amantifiimus in Cbrifto,
A. Symsonus.
Reverendiffimo Domino et Patri Archi-
epifcopo Andreapolitano, cseterifque
Epifcopis.
CCCXIX.— LORD BINNING TO KING JAMES.
Most Sacred Souerane,
The Commiflionars of Parlement1 for Plantation of Churches1
baue convened, and concluded tbat tbe cuntrie fall be quartered; that
Bnce the Archibibifhop of Santandrois is abfent, and fo not reddie to
' The first part of this letter refers to various affairs wholly unconnected with Church
matters. In the Melros Papers, the letter has been placed under the year 1(1 Hi, but it
evidently belongs to 1617.
- In the Act referred to, " Anent the Plantatioun of Kirkis," which was passed in the
Parliament held by his Majesty at Edinburgh, on the 28th June 1017, the names of the
Commissioners are specified. — (Acta Pari. Scot. vol. iv. p. .'>■'!! >.
1617.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 507
tak the firft terme, which is the moneth of Nouember, that that moneth
fall be affigned for the Kirkis of the Diocefes of Glafgow, Galloway, and
Argyle. The moneth of December is appoynted for the Kirkis of the
Diocefes of Santandrois, Dunkell, and Dumblane. Januar is prefixed
for Brechin, Aberdene, and Murray. Februar for Eos, Caithnes, Ork-
nay, and the Hes.
Summondis ar prefentlie formed, and to be fent blank to evrie one of
the Bifchoppis, to caufe execute aganis the poffeffoures of the rentis of
the particular Kirkis and vtheris, pretending rightis to the frutes thair-
of, and the Minifters ferving the cures, if any be, for fetling the ftipendis
be thair aduyce and confent, or failzeing thairof, as the Commiffionars
fall think reafonable.
Places and tymes ar appoynted for the Commiffionars frequent melt-
ings, efter the firft of Nouember ; and becaus the attendance vj)on the
Seffion and Counfall will many tymes impeid the meiting of fik as ar of
that number, it is concluded, that thefe who ar not Seffionars or Coun-
fallours fall be fet to particular tafkis, to deale with the pairties inter-
effed in particular Kirkis, and fall mak report of thair trauels and
fucceffe to the whole number oulklie, vpon the Monnondayes, Wednif-
dayes, and Frydayes, for furtherance of the gude difpatche of the
buffines, and efchewing of the trouble of the Commiffionars and pairties
be long and vnneceffar attendance.
The Lord Gordon has renewed his promeis to be anfuerable for
Geichtis conformitie. So, humblie begging pardon for this longfum
interruption of your Maiefties greatar affaires, I pray God to extend the
courfe of your Maiefties lyfe, health, and happines to the vttermoft period
and perfection of humane felicitie.
Your moft Sacred Maiefties moft humble, faithfuU,
and bund feruant,
Binning.
Edinburgh, 21 Auguft [1617.]
To the Kingis moft Sacred Maieftie.
.->08 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [161,
OCCXX.— TnE BISHOP OF MURRAY TO KING JAMES.
Sacred Soverane. — Mat it pleas your most Excellent Maiestie,
Calling to remembrance your Hienes bountifulnes and wnde-
fervit favour towards me at all tymes, and now laitly at your Maiefties
laft being in Sanctandrous, in granting me the gift of that ten thoufand
merkis, be this Lord Spynies cfchett and lyverent fallin in your Hienes
hands : I thocht good to fchave your Maiefty, that, in the gift of that
lyvrent difponit to the Lord Spyneis effect, the Bifchop of Rofs is dona-
tour ; and forder, that, in the fame gift difponit to him, ther is contenit
tin' richt of the haill benefices of the Dyocie off Murray, expres aganes
your Maiefleis intentioun, rjuhilk was evir to have keepit them in your
Hienes avin hand. Quhairanent your Maieftie directit ane letter to
the Lords off Seffioun, difchairging them to admitt ony prefentatioun
proceiding from the Lord of Spynie ; togidder with your Hienes vther
letter to my felfT, difchairging me to giff ony admiffioun vpone ony pre-
fentatioun proceiding from the Lord of Spynie ; quhilk directioun I
have contenowaly obeyit, and hes tain prefentatiounes from your Maief-
teis felfT ftill to this hour, as ony benefices in Murray hapnit to waik :
fo that your Hienes is yit ftill in poffeffioun : Heirfor will humblie
intreat your Maieftie direct vour Hienes miflive to the Bifchop off Rofs,
requiring him no to midle with the richt off thais benefices, bot that
they may be rcteinit in your Maiefleis avin hand. Nixt, that he imped
nocht me in obtining my declaratour in obtening that ten thoufand
merkis, as he vill be anfuerable to your Maieftie. Alfo, that your
Maieftie will wreat ane letter to my Lord Cancellar, to try gif thais
benefices of Murray be contenit within that gift difponit to the Bifchop
of Rofs ; and being found thair, that my Lord Cancellar and Counfall
flay ony proccs at the Bifchop of Rofs or ony mans inftance thairanent,
bot that theas benefices be retenit in your Maiefleis avin hand for your
Hienes avin libertie, as it vas ever your Hienes intentioun. And forder, to
defyr my Lord Cancellar to grant me ane declaratour vpone your Hienes
<_fit't of that ten thoufand merkis with all poflible diligence, and that
1617.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 509
without refpecl; of that firft gift grantit to the Bifchop of Rofs, becaus I
heave reafit the firft fummonds off declaratour, and becaus my gift is
fignat with your Maiefteis avin hand, and the firft nocht. It may pleas
your Maieftie caus direct ane vther letter to my Lord Prefident to the
fame effecl;, and to be my freind in all my wther laufull actiones. Your
Maiefteis laft letter to Mr William Oliphant, your Hienes Advocat, to
compeir for me in the perfute of that declaratour as is his office, and as
he will pleafour your Maieftie.
Thir fignificatiounes of your Maiefteis cair tovardis me will obtein me
favour, and mak me lefs impediment. Laft, it will pleas your Maieftie,
the Juftices of Peace they ar werie flaw in your Maiefteis ferwice ; your
Maiefteis letter wreittin to me, with threatningis to them, will incitt
them to fum greater diligence, wthervayis this contrey will go fchortlie
lowfs. This vifching your Maieftie all helthe and happines in this lyff,
and eternitie therof heirefter, I maift humblie commend your Maieftie
to the Lord's eternall prote&ioun.
Your Maiefteis maift humble and affeclionat ferwitour,
Elgen, 5 September 1617. Al. B. off Mukraye.
Pleas your Maieftie, the Earle of Murray is verie trublefum to
me, becaus I will nocht hurt the Churche, bot laubouris to the teyndis
at libertye, quherof I thocht goode to foirfe your Maieftye. I haife
your Maieftes letter alredy in the contrair.
To his moft Excellent Maieftye.
CCCXXI THE BISHOP OF GALLOWAY TO KING JAMES.
Most Gratious and Sacred Sotjeraine,
Pleafe your Hienes, I haue as yet done no fervice in the Chap-
pell, except the baptifing of John Murray his fonne, where the organes
510 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1617.
ami nmlitians, four on everie part, men and boyes, agreit in pleafant
harmonic, to the contentment of all, becaus they vnderftood what wes
(bung. The organes lies bene too commonlie vifited, the organift fhew
me that the fpakes that raifes the bellowes had bene fomewhat vnfkil-
fullic vfed be ignorant people. I fhew it to my Lord Chancellar, who
lies commanded to keep them more cairfullie, yet the myce and dull of
the houfe will do them evill if convenient coverings be not provyded for
them in tyme. For this your Maieftie wilbe pleafed giue direction to
the Thefaurar ; as alfo for intertenment of the Organift, who can both
mak and mend, and play vpon them in ordour, for the rent prefent the
Chappell lies will fcarfe fuftene the Prebendaries that ar, except the
Lordis help to reftore the living that hes bene taken from it, as I hope
they will. As for me, I fee no appearance of a loodging allowed for
me ; four chalmers ar offred me, wherein a man may not poffiblie turne
a halbert : they can not conteine the half of my familie, and fome of
them wanting chimneyes, can not be for ftudentis. How the reft of the
houfes ar difponed, your Maieftie will learne of others better nor of me.
Xtither key of Chappell nor organe loft is committed to me. I wryt
no thing be way of complaint, bot that your Maieftie, vnderftanding
how matters ar, may giue direction as beft pleafes your Hienes. Sen
everie Minifter of the countrey hes a manfe at his Kirk, I think your
Maiefties will fhalbe, that your Hienes Deane haue one alfo, either
within or without, convenient for his eftait. Otherway hard to me to
wait vpon dailie fervice there. Bot referring all to your Maiefties good
pleafure, 1 humblie tak my leaue, and refts
Your Maiefties humble feruant,
and dailie oratour,
William Bishop of Galloway.
Cannogait, September 15, 1617.
To his Maieftie.
1617.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 511
CCCXXII.— MR PATRICK GALLOWAY, ONE OF THE MINISTERS OF
EDINRURGH, TO KING JAMES.
Please your Gracious Maiestie,
I receavid your Maiefties letter, following the repoirtis made
of me to your Maieftie be fuche perfons, and willing and requyre-
ing me, vnder my hand, to certifie your Maieftie of my mind in
thefe Articles, which your Maieftie defyred to be receavid into this
Church.
As to the reporteris, certanelie I admire what fould haue moved
thame to repoirt to your Maieftie that which was palled bot in priuat
betuix ws ; for, fpeaking with thame of fome particulares, I fchow to
thame fnnply my opinione, to knaw thair judgement thairin ; bot I
neuer faid to any of thame that ather I was vnrefolued, or throughlv
refolued, into thefe Articles, bot was to informe myfelf in tyme of
euerie poynt of thame, and to doe according to my knawledge to informe
otheris. And as to my awin mynd in euerie one of thefe Articles, this
is it, Ser ; bot with moil humble proteftatioune : —
I. That I trewly fett doun to your Maieftie what I think of thame,
being readie, vpon better informatione frome your Maieftie, to amend
what is amiffe.
II. That this is my awin privat opinione keepit with myfelf, and yit
vncommunicat to any man, and fend to your Maieftie firft to vndergoe
your Maiefties cenfure.
III. That what I wryte, it is frome a afald mynd, readie to help
fordward your fervice, fo far as my knawledge and credite may reache :
and thairfoir wold be the more favourablie accepted, and able to
procure of your Maieftie, that, as your Maieftie hath done before to
me, fo your Maieftie wold now put to your hand to pen, and fend me
your particular informatione and warrand of thefe Articles, which I
may embrace and follow ; for thay ar Articles which I neuer thoght
neceflar to tak paines in to know thame, till I heard your Maieftie pro-
pone thame as thoght meete be your Maieftie to be embraced be ws.
512 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1617.
I. As to the iirft Article, Of Confirmatione : I think it is fufficientlv
i'ctt doun in the laft General AfTeinblie at Aberdeene, and needs no more
hot to be put in praclife.
II. As to the nixt Article, Of Holy Dayis : of Chrift our Saviouris
nativitie, paffione, refurrectionc afcenfione, and comming of the Holy
Spirite, to be keepid with preaching, prayar, prayfe, &c. ; I think it the
more indifferent, becaus I reide that Augufline comptis it among Apof-
tolik traditions, and obfervid be all Kirkis, (Lib. Epift. Epift.118 ;) and
fundry Reformed Kirkis vfes it, both in Germany and Swifferland, as
thair doininicall fermons on thefe dayis, printed teftifies.
Bot with ws the fame will feeme more hard to be embraced ; becaus
hitherto we have beene frie of thame, keeping only the Lordis day, and
on it preaching (I am affurcd) fufficientlie of Chrift's nativitie, paflione,
refurre6lione, and afcenfione, and comming of the Haly Spirit, almoft in
all our fermons ; and it will be hard to fett vp a weeke day for thame
whilk will not be abufed be fuperftition and furfet ; and the paftors will
ho more bufied in declameing againft abufes, nor in preaching of Chriftis
gofpel. I fchew in my priuat talking with Do6lor Young, that give
when thefe dayis fell on a weeke day, thay fould be referrid to the nixt
Lordis day (as the Councell of Nice concludit concerning the day of
the celebratioune of the Lordis Supper), and the miniftrie ordayned to
change thair ordinary testis, and mak that the fubiect of thair doclrine
that day : it wold appeare that your Maiefties defyre wer reafonably
latiined.
III. As to the thrid Article, Of Baptifme, to be miniftred at all tyms
to thefe that craifes it : I think it fould be graunted ; and betuix funne
ami lunnc, in day time, to be denyed to nane quho is a knowin honeft
perfone of that flocke. Bot to grant Baptifme in priuat houfes, and
vnder iilence of night, to fuch as craife it (if this be the Articles
meaning), wer to confirme the opinionc of abfolute neceffitie of Bap-
tifme, which is dangerous, and to doe as our Churche wer vnder per-
fecutione ; when as we inioy pace vnder your gracious Maieftie to doc
the workia of the miniftrie in public!, in day light, and at all occalionns.
1617.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 513
IIII. As to the ferd Article, Of the celebratione of the Lord's Supper
in priuat houfes, to perfons craveing it : I think it may be graunted,
bot not abfolutly (for then euerie wyfe moft haue it before fhe come to
church from her chyld bed, and euerie headach mull haue the commu-
nioun before it come to the calfay ; and that graunted to one, moft be
commoun to otheris, or the paftor falbe exclamed on as a refpecler of
perfons ; in end, the Sacrament fall become of lb fmall accompt in
publict, as few fall be had to celebrat the remembrance of the Lordis
dead, in the public!; affemblies of the Church, whairupon arrofe, of old,
the celebratioune of priuat meffis), bot according to that inftance which
I hard your Maieftie give of your old fervand, Johne Bog, that is, if
ane knawin honeft man, vpright in the religioun, haue keepid houfe
or bed for a yeere or tuo, and is vnable throgh age and feeknes to
refort to the church, then he earnelllie craifing it for the confirmatione
of his fayth, in the afluranee of the remiffioun of his fynns and lyfe
euerlafting, I think it might be graunted to him, fome reafonable number
of his honeft nighbouris accompanying him thairat, with his minifter.
V. As to the fyft Article, Of receaving the Lordis Supper kneeling :
Trewlie, Ser, I wolde faine be informed of your Maieftie, how I might
doe it myfelf 1 how I might informe otheris to doe fo ? and how, be rea-
fone, I might meete and mend otheris who ar of contrary mynd ? And
as for my awin opinione heerin, I think as yit that the belt forme of
taking it is, as we do, fitting ; becaus, firft, Chrift our Lord did fo : he
had a table, (Luk. 22. 21 ; and vers 14), fat doun with the tuelf to cele-
brat the fupper ; and Chriftis a6tione fould be our inftitutione. And
the Apoftle's rule is, (1 Cor. 11. 1), " Be ye followaris of me as I am of
Chrift ;" and, (vers 23), " I haue receavid of the Lord that which I haue
delyverid vnto yow;" fo following Amply the praclife of the Lord in the
celebratioun of the Sacrament.
Nixt, Prayar and prayfe going immediatly before the actioun, and
following immediatly after the aclioun, with kneeling : it appearis moft
feemly that the actioun itfelf fould be according to the cuftome vfed in
fuch a6tiouns, and that is, to eate and drink fitting, and as communi-
cantis with our Lord, to rejoyfe with him at his table.
3t
614 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1617.
Thridly, The Churches Apoftolik, and fuch as followid after thame,
till the yeere 1215, neuer vfed, as I can reid, Kneeling at the receaving
of the Communion, till Pope Innocentius 3, at Lateran, decreed Tranf-
luhftantiatione of the elementis in the Sacrament. And after him Pope
llonorius 3, the yeere 1220, decreed that the elementis fould he lifted
vp be the Prceil, adored be the people, and keepid in a box, and on the
box fould be this inferiptioune : —
" Hie Deum adora : item, flecle genu : pixis hie venerabilis hoipitt
Chrifto."
And Doctor Sutliue [Sutcliffe], a learnid and grave divine, contra Bel-
larminum de Ceremonus Mifia?, fayis, (fol. 99, 100, 101,) " Omnes has
cerenionioe ex recentiorum Miffialium formulis authoritatem et originem
habent." Then he enumberis amongis the reft, " Et coram eis genu-
flexiones.
" Item, nufquam certe legimus genua fleclenda effe coram Sacra-
mento, nib" in miffalibus et libris ritualibus.
" Item, nihil turpius quam genua coram Sacramento fleftere.
" Item, nufquam legimus inclinationem corporis et genuum ineurva-
tionem coram Sacramento indicium efl'e ; humilitatis aut aliquos viros
fan&os aut pios fe coram Sacramento panis aut calicis dominici vel
corpora fua inclinaffe."
And Bellarmine, a man as feemis mightie for Tranffubftantiatione,
wreittis, (lib. 4. cap. 30,) " De Euchariftia melius difcunt rudiorcs in
Eucharifti;e Sacramento vere effe Chriftum praefentem ; et proinde fal-
lam effe hsereticorum doftrinam ex publica adoratione totius ecclefise, et
honore illo oxiinio qui huic Sacramento exhibetur, quam ex multis con-
cionibus." And thairfoir in another place, he fayis, " Non poteft carere
fufpicione Idololatrise capere Euchariftiam genuHexione, nifi concedatur
Tranffubftantiatio."
Thus, I haue {imply obeyed your Majefties command, in fetting doun
my opinioun of thefe Articles, which I befeeche your Majeftie to accept
in good pairt, and to amend whair any thing is amiffe, be your loveing
informatione : remembering how, according to knawledge and abilitie, I
have followid your Maieftie before, and is now als readie to follow as
1617.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 515
euer I was (whatfoeuer repoirtis be made be otlieris of me) ; and fall
Godwilling, according to my knawledge, follow the fame courfe to the
end : And thairfoir needis bot informatione and confirmatione, that I
may proceed ; quhich nowe I attend.
Pardone me now, Ser, to renew my requeaft for your Maiefties pr;e-
cept to your Thefaurer to pas my Sonns gift, which fo lovingly your
Maiefties felf hath paffed ; and to befeeche your Maieftie, in any
reportis that fall be made of me, to keepe ane eare free for my anfure,
whilk will incourage me to goe on in the fervice of fo loving a maifter,
So, humblie taking my leefe, I recommend your Maiefties facred per-
fone, familie and eftate, to the bleffing and prote6tioun of God.
Frome Edinburgh, this 5 off Nouember, the day
of your Maiefties moft gracious delyuerance
from the Gunnpoulder treafone of confpyred
Papifts: 1617.
Your Maiefties awine old and truftie feruitour,
M. P. Gallouay.
To his Maieftie.
CCCXXIIL— LOED BINNING TO KING JAMES.
Most Sacred Souerane,
I thoght no meane fo fit to mak your Maiefties gude pleafour
and expres command to your Counfall and principall officers to bald
hand to the approbation of the approcheing Generall AfTemblie of tbefe
Articles proponed be your Maieftie, being in this cuntrie, in Churche
maters, knowne to the Counfall as be public! reading of your Maiefties
letter in Counfall j1 which thay all acknouledged fo wyfe and juft, as thay
1 The King's letter is not preserved. In the Register of Privy Council, we find the
516 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1617.
with hairtie confent all promeifed to aduance it to thair vttermoft, and
not onlie to withdraw thair fan our and countenance from any who fould
oppofe thame felfis, hot alfo to concur with the Prelats in the punifhinent
of fuch as thay fould find wourthie of cenfure, which I am perfuaded
thay will duelie performe.
Vpon the firft of this moneth we convened, to giue beginning to the
Commiffion for Plantation of the Churches ; hot the moft pairt of the
Commiffionaris being abfent, we wer forced to continow the dyet to the
Ifvint. and directed fummar chairges of horning agains thefe who wer
abfent, and not lawfullie excufed ; bot thay ar fince cum to this towne
in fufficient number to keip the day appoynted, and as thay fall proceid
vour Maieftie fall be aduerteifed.
The Commiffionars of the Rentis haue had before thame the vnder
reflauers of the cuflumes at the feuerall portis of this kingdome, and
haue appoynted thame to vplift the cuftumes to your Maiefties vie, in-
tending to mak feuerall takkis thairof, if thay fall heirefter find refponfall
following Act for proclamation of the General Assembly to be held on the 2.'>th of
November at St Andrews.
Apwl Edinburgh quarto Novembris 1617.
ClIANCELLAlR. BlNNIXG. RlDHOUS.
Tiiesaurair. Peeuie Seal. Curriehii.l.
B. 8T Androis. Thesaurair Depute. Marchiston.
B. Glasgu. Justice Clerk. Sb Robert Densieston.
LOTIIEANE. ADVOCAT.
Forsamekle as the Kingis Maiestie for some speciall consideratiomiis concerning the
glorie of God and the decent and comelie [ordour] and governament in the Kirk has
thocht meete [and expedient, commandit] and ordanit that thair salbe ane Generall
Assemblie haldin and keipit in the Citie of S' Androis, and sail begin, Godwilling. vpoun
the xxv day of November instant. Thairfoir the Lordis of Secreit Connsell ordainis
letters to be direct chargeing otfieiaris of armes to pas and mak 1'roclamatioun hereof be
oppin proclainatioun at all placeis neidfull that nane pretend ignorance of the same. And
to warne all Archibischoppis, Bischoppis, and C'ommissionaris for the said Assemblie, and
ntheris haueing voit and place thairin, That thay addresse thame seltfis in dew and
laughfull tyme to the Citie of S* Androis agane the day foirsaid, and thair attend and
await upon the said Assemblie. As thay will ansuer vpon the contrair at their highest
pencil.
1617.] • TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 517
pairties who will offer profitable condicions for tliame to your Maieftie ;
and becaus none can be tryed to mak any gud offer for the Impoft, thay
ar in hope to get thame fo exacllie vplifted, as your Maieftie fall haue
the full commoditie thairof, with leffe loffe this year, nor if thay fould
haue yeilded to ane tak, with diminution of your Maiefties accuftumed
rentall thairof.
The Burrowes haue fent thair Commiffionars to this towne to confult
vpon the motion of tranfport of our natiue commodities in cuntrie bot-
tomes, with prohibition to ftrangers fo long as thair is any of oure owne
fchippis to ferue : thay ar to exhibit thair ouuertures thairanent the
next oulk, which fall be fent to your Maieftie with diligence.
The Generall Affemblie is proclamed to be kept at Santandrois the
25 of this moneth, whairin wifhing your Maieftie contentment, and per-
fyte happines in all your vther royall diffeins and affaires, I reft,
Your moft Sacred Maiefties moft humble,
faithfull, and bund feruant,
Edinburgh, 7 Nouember [1617. ] Binning.
To the Kingis moft Sacred Maieftie.
CCCXXIV— THE PEOVOST AND BAILL1ES OF EDINBURGH TO
KING JAMES.
Most Gkatious and dread Soverane,
Such hes beine the continuate courfe of your Maiefties royall
favouris extendit towardis ws, your Maiefties meaneft fubiecles, that ilk
day hes beine ane meflinger to ws of fum new blis iffewing frome that
rich fontaine of your Maiefties royall wifdome and guidnes, for the
quhilk, as we acknowledge our felffis infinitlie bund, with all intentioune
of our affectiounes, to become your Maiefties beidfmen, for continuance
of your Maiefties thryfe happie and profperous reigne over ws and our
518 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING. [1617-
pofteritie, fo ar we emboldned, in all our wantis, to haue recourfe to
that fame welfpring thence to be fupplied of quhat is defe&iue : And
now, bein"f fenlible of no defect more then of ane fufficient number of Paf-
toures to wndergo the Miniftrie of Gods word within this Brugh, we
ar againe to become maift humble fupplicantis to your Sacred Maieftie
for Mr Patrik Forbes, Laird of Corfs, Minifter at [Keith1], ane learned
l'aftor, weill knawin to your Maieftie, and approwin to the revrend Pre-
latis of our Churche, for his rair gift of preaching, his peaceble and
unfpotted lyffe, and conformitie in all poyntis, maift humblie entreatting
your Sacred Maieftie to grant to ws the faid Mr Patrik to be ane of our
ordinal- Paftouris ; and to that effect, be your Royall mandate, to giue
direciioune to your Maiefties reverend Prelatis, and vtheres Commiffioneris
of the Nationall Afiemblie, to be haldin at St Andrewis vpone the twen-
tie fyft day of November inflant, for his tranfplantatione, and fatiffieing
our fo juft and neceffar defyres, quhilk, as they proceid frome thefe quho
dois lewell all their aymes to the incres of trew pietye and obedience to
your Sacred authoritie, fo we houpe they falbe fhrowded wnder the
wyngis of your Royall favour. Our neceffitie is knawin to none better
then to your Sacred Maieftie, nor how much it importeth not onlie ws in
particular, bot muche more your Maieftie, and the haill Realme, that
fuche be planted heir quha may fchyne as lampes for puritie, not onlie
of do6lrine, bot of lyffe and converfatione : In the quhilk number this
Paftor being reckoned amangis the firft, and haveing thairof, now thir
many yeiris, gewin fufficient pruiff, withe als much confidence as necef-
fitie, we flie to your Sacred Maieftie, for your Royall affent and appro-
bation of our fo neceffarie and godlie fuite : Quhilk, as we humblie
fubmit to your Maiefties wyfe and fauorable iudgement, nocht wifching
to breath langer then in the fcore of your Maiefties accompts we be
fund fuche as we pretend : Swa eraveing pardone for interrupting your
.Maiefties mair ferious effairis, and praying the Eternall, our God, for
increas of your Maiefties Royall eftait, and continuance of your health
1 The name is left blank in the MS. Forbes was settled in the parish of Keith,
Aberdeenshire, in the year 1611. In January 1G1S, he was nominated to the Bishop-
rick of Aberdeen.
1617.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 519
and lyffe to be extendit to the lenth of nature, we maift bumblie tak
our leave, and fall ewer reft
Your Maieftes maift bumble and loyall fubie&is, The Proveft and
Baillies of your Maiefties guid toune of Edinburgh,
WlLLIAME NlSBETT, PrOUeftt.
Allexander Peirsone, Baillie. James Ainslie, Baillie.
David Richardsone, Baillie. James Dalzell, Baillie.
Edinburgh, the xj November 1617.
To his Sacred Maieftie.
CCCXXV LORD BINNING TO KING JAMES.
Most Sacred Soeerane,
My former letters told that the Archibifchop of Santandrois his
going to Fyffe, for preparation of the Generall Aflemblie, had difcon-
tinowed oure proceiding in the Commiffion for Plantation of Churches,
whill the firft of December ; befydes the appeirance that the Seffion fould
be interrupted during the Affemblie, in refpecl; of that number of ordi-
nar Seflionars, which is appoynted to affift your Maiefties Commiffionar
at that meiting.
The Counfall, obeying your Maiefties direction, wrait fyftene dayes
ago to all thefe of your Counfall or Seffion, whom your Maieftie
ordained to be at the Aflemblie ; and in particular to the Erie of
Montrois, defigned Commiffionar be your Maieftie, to keip the prefixed
tyme.
This day my Lord Chancelar reffaued ane letter from him, bearing,
that, albeit he be moft willing to ferue your Maieftie in all that can be
inioyned to him, yet his indifpofition is fo great as lie can not be able to
520 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1617.
trauell, nor ferue at this tyme in that chairge ; which, being communi-
cat be my Lord Chancelar to the Erie of Mar, and fum vthers of your
Maiefties Councell, we prefentlie wrait to him earneftlie defyring that,
all excufes fet afyde, he fould accept and difchairge that Commiffion,
which your Maieftie had trufted to him ; and with the lyke diligence,
wrait to my Lord of Santandrois of the Earl of Montrois his excufe, and
of our defyre to know his opinion, what wes fitteft to be done for your
Maiefties fatiffaction, and performance of your Maiefties intentions,
whofo fpeidie anfuer we exfpect ; and what fall be refolued and done
heirintill fall with all convenient celeritie be fignified to your Maieftie.
So, prayeing God long to profper and preferue your Maieftie in all
wifhed contentment, I reft,
Your moft Sacred Maiefties moft humble, faithfull,
and bund fubiect and feruant,
Binning.
Edinburgh, 20 of Nouember,
at night [1G17.]
To the Kinsis moft Sacred Maieftie.
CCCXXYL— LORD BINNING TO KING JAMES.
Most Sacred Souerane,
In the Aflemblie now diffolued, nothing wes proponed bot the
Articles lent be your Maieftie. Ane great pairt of the Minifters wer fo
wilfullie inclyned to haue the haill differred at this tyme, to the effect
thay might haue laifer and opportunitic, be reiding the Fathers and
Counfals, to refolue, if with gude confeience, and without fcandall of
inconftancie to the Kirk and thamefclfis, thay might yeild to the alter-
ations and nouelties which thay imagined the Articles to imply, that it
wes verie difficill to my Lordis of Santandrois, Glafgo, and remanent
1617.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 521
Bifchops, affifted be the wyfeft and learnedeft of the Miniftrie and your
Maiefties Coinmifnoners, to induce the difordered multitude and thair
leiders, to determine vpon any particular ; and fo being driven to the
extremitie aither to diffolue the Affemblie without any maner of pro-
gres, and with manifeft diffenfion, or to mak vfe of the beft expedient
the tyme could produce in the determination of fum of the Articles, all
the beft affedted to your Maiefties feruice thoght it expedient to accept
what wifdome and authoritie could gayne at this tyme, and leive the
reft vnder hope and promeis of fatiffadtion at the neixt Affemblie ; and fo
the Article of geuing the Communion to the impotent and dangerouflie
feik in thair privat houfes, and deliuerie of the elements owt of the
Minifters handis to the people at the public!; celebration, being obteaned,
in fuch maner as the formed Articles to be fent to your Maieftie, be my
Lord of Santandrois, beares : When the Article of the Holie Dayes wes of
new vrged, the defyre of delay wes fo vniuerfall in that and the reft of
the Propofitions, that the Bifchops wer forced, for feare of ane direcl
refufall, to yeild to the continuation, vpon promeis maid be the molt
pairt of the pretended Precifians, that thay wald vfe all poffible ende-
uors to prepaire thame felfis, with confent of thair well informed flokis,
to give your Maieftie fatiffaction at the nixt Affemblie. My Lord of
Santandrois feare of your Maiefties offence be delay of your fo juft and
godlie defyres, maid him fo paffionatlie inftant, as he could fcaircelie be
induced be any perfuafion to accept any dowtfull or dilatorie anfuer,
and moued him to threaten thame with your Maiefties refolution to
ordane be adtis and penall proclamations aganis the contravenars, to
haue all thefe Articles vndelayedlie obeyed, fchawing to thame how dii-
gracefull it wald be to the Kirk of Scotland, in the jugement of all the
Reformed Churches in Europe, that our ignorant and obftinat refufall
of fo godlie and laufull Propofitions, fould force your Maieftie, be your
Chriftian authoritie, to compell thame to do that which thair duetie
fould haue moued thame to embrace, with thankfull acknouledgement
of your Maiefties caire to haue the abufes of oure Churche Difcipline
reformed, and rightlie conformed to the vniuerfall order of all the reft of
the true Chriftian Churches in Europe. Bot the reft, thinking the delay,
with affured hope of fatiffadtion, les hurtfull nor ane abrupt and contra-
3u
522 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1617.
dietorie diiVolution, which we all mofl humblie wifli that your Maieftie
may graciouflie allow, fince wc ar confidentlie perfuaded that the nixt
inciting fall giuc your Maieftie contentment, fpeciallie if your Maieftie
grace the nixt Affemblie with Commiffionars of greater fufficiencie and
authoritie ; albeit I may affirme and hope the Bifchops will teftifie that
thefe who wer at this tyme imployed wanted no gude will to giue thair
I. cit concurrence. So, wifliing to your Maieftie manie happie yeires,
that we may enioy the conftant frutes of your moil prudent and gra-
cious rcgne, I reft
Your moft Sacred Maiefties inoft humble, faithfull,
and obedient fubieet and feruant,
Santandrois, 28th Nouemb. Binning.
at night [1617.]
CCCXXVn — THE ARCHBISHOPS AND BISHOPS TO KING JAMES.
Most Sacred and most Graciouse Soveraigne,
Albeit we vnderftand the Secretary wil gif your Maieftie adver-
til'ment of the procedingis of this Affembly, yit we conlkler that it is our
duty to gif your Maieftie ane account of our fervice ; qhiche can not be
done fo particularly at this tym in regard of the hafte of this pacquet,
as we trull the lam falbe, be the Archbifchop of St Andrews him felf
in that meffage, qhich he wil fend within fom few dayis : Only this far,
Sir, we. may say, that we haif left nothing vndone that lay in ics, to haif
your Maicsties Articles passed with consent of the qhole ; and thocht ice haif
done litle, yit a way is made to al, and the samin wilhe more easily effec-
ttiat at another tym,1 that we haif fought this combat with the oppolites,
<(ho haif, in the hearing of many, tryit thair own weaknes in argumentis
ami refoning. The Erie of Montrotfe his abfence, qho exeunt him felf
1 This letter is in the handwriting of the Archbishop of St Andrews: the words
printed in italics are underlined iu the original, and marked in the margin, as 1, 2, 3,
apparently by a different hand.
1617.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 523
by feiknes, did ws great hurt. The place wes fupplyit be the Secretary,
my Lord Carnegy, the Thefaurar Deput, Kilfyth, and Advocat, qho
difchargit the dutyis of faythful fervantis, and merit to be remembrit
with particular thankis ; efpecially the Secretary, that plyit the part of
a good Prefident, and put them many tymis to the point qhen thei
fchiftit by abdu6tiounis. The disputfor the Festival dayis, Kneeling at Com-
munion, and the gefing of the sam to the Sick, wes so toel done, as we culd
haif wischit any learned men qhatsoevir to haif heard the samin. That
we put fo litle to voyces, the abfence of the Bifchop of Murray and al
his Dyocie, the Bifchop of Orkney and his Minifters, the Commiffioneris
of Rofle, Abirden, Cathnes, Argyl, and lies, with dyvers otheris, wes
the caus. For ice wold not hasart ony thing to mak them insolent that
easily ar made sik, except that qhairin we wer fure to overthrowe them.
But we nether difiembled nor buir with them in ony thing, and, thankis
to God, haif had of them a Angular advantage. Mr Patrik Galloway
wes heir, and caryit himfelf wel and wyfly. They wer foolifche ynoughe
of them felfis, but if he had not kythed againft them, thai had ben
muche more. But as we faid, we muft referre the particulars to a
larger report, humbly befeeching your Maieftie favourably to accept our
final procedingis, feing we haif done al that wes in our power at this tym.
Sum thingis we haif impartit to our Primat of our own and other menis
particularis, qhofe ready fervice at this tym defervis your Maiefties
favoure, qhiche we know he wil not forget. And fo praying God
Almyghtie to bliffe your Maieftie with al happines, we humbly tak our
leave.
Your Maiefties humble fervandis,
Pa. B. of Boss. Sanctandkews.
An. Lisjioren. Ad. B. of Dunblane. Ja. Glasgow.
St Andrews, 28 November 1617.
To his moft Sacred Maieftie.
524 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [161'
i i i WVIII.— HIS MAJESTIES MISSIVE TO THE ARCHBISHOPS OF ST
ANDREWS AJST) GLASGOW.
We have received your Letter, and thereby underftand what
your proceedings have been in that Affembly of St Andrews; concern-
ing which we will have von know, that We are come to that age as We
will not be content to be fed with broath, as one of your coat was wont
to fpeak, and think this your doing a difgrace no lefs than the Protci-
tation it felt*. Wherefore it is Our pleafure, and We command you, as
you will avoid our high eft difpleafure, the one of you by your Deputy in
St Andrews and by your felf in Edinburgh, and the other of you in
Glafgow, keep Chriftrnas day precifely, your felves preaching, and chufe-
ing your texts according to the time. And likewife that ye difcharge
ill Modification of Stipends' from this year to any Minifter whatfoever.
fucb excepted as have teftified their affection to our fervice at this time,
by farthering at their power the acceptation of the Articles propofed :
and in the premiffes willing you not to fail, We bid you farcwel.
Newmarket, the G of December 1(317.
So many Bilhops as you can get warned in time to preach at their
Sees on Chriftrnas day," urge them to it. Thus much in hafte for this
time, after two or three days ye fiiall hear further from us.
Since your Scottish Church hath so far contemned my clemency, tiny
shall now find ivhat it is to draw the anger of a King upon them.3
1 The King's order on this subject, is referred to in note 1, page 526.
' Caldeiwood mentions, that the Bishops repaired to their several dioeies to preach on
i 'hristmas day, in conformity with these directions, excepting Spottiswood, who was com-
manded to preach on that occasion in the High Kirk of Edinburgh. — (Hist. vol. vii.
P. 288.)
The words in italics, according to Spottiswood, were added " with his Majesties ■ >» i
hand."— (Hist. \>. 585 I
1617.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 525
CCCXXIX.— HIS MAJESTIES MISSIVE TO THE AECHBISHOP OF ST
ANDREWS.
After we had commanded the difpatch of our other Letter, "We
received an Extract concluded (we know not how) in your Affembly,
and fubfcribed by the Clerk thereof; the one concerning Private Com-
munion, and the other concerning the form to be ufed at the receiving
of the holy Sacrament ; both fo hedged and conceived in fo ridiculous a
manner, as befides that of the whole Articles proponed, thefe two were
the leaft neceffary to have been urged and battened. The fcornful con-
dition and form of their grant makes us juftly wifli that they had been
refufed with the reft ; for in the firft, concerning the Communion allowed
to Sick perfons, befides the number required to receive with fuch patients,
and a neceffity tying them upon oath to declare, that they truly think
not to recover, but to die of that difeafe, they are yet further hedged in
with a neceffity to receive the Sacrament (in cafe aforefaid to be minif-
tered unto them) in a convenient room ; which what it importeth We
cannot guefs, feeing no room can be fo convenient for a fick man (fworn
to die) as his bed, and that it were injurious and inhumane for thence in
any cafe to tranfport him, were the room never fo neat and handfome to
which they mould carry him.
And as to that other Act, ordaining the Minifter himfelf to give the
Elements in the celebration out of his own hand to every one of the
Communicants, and that he may perform this the more commodioufly,
by the advice of the Magiftrates and honeft men of his Seffion, to pre-
pare a Table at which the fame may be conveniently miniftred ; truly
in this we muft fay that the Minifters eafe and commodious fitting on his
tail hath been more look'd to than that Kneeling which, for reverence,
we directly required to be enjoyned to the receivers of fo divine a Sacra-
ment : neither can we conceive what fhould be meant by that Table,
unlefs they mean to make a round Table (as did the Jews) to fit and
receive it.
In conclufion, feeing either We and this Church here muft be held
520 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1617.
Idolatrous in this point of Kneeling, or they reputed Rebellious knaves
in refilling the fame, and that the two forefaid Acts are conceived fo
fcprnfally, and lb far from our meaning; it is Our pleafure that the
fame be altogether fupprcffed, and that no effect follow thereupon. So
we bid you farewel.1
Newmarket, the 11th of December 1617.
CCCXXX.— THE BISHOP OF CAITHNES TO KING JAMES.
Please your Sacred Malestie,
The Earle of Cathnefs, by your Maiefties direction, and at the
light of the Archibifhop of Glafgow and Bifhop of Rofs, did fubfcriue a
renunciation of a few Bifhops lands into my favouris, which in no cafe he
wold deliuer vnto me, but did configne it into my Lord Binnies hands,
there to remane vntill he fhould get his remiffion paft. In procuring
whereof, he protracleth time till he alfo fee if he can end with Credi-
tours. And being now returned to Cathnefs, and fecure vnder hope of
your Maiefties favour when he will, he is like to make no litle delaie,
and in the meane time to work no leffe prejudice to me, defrauding me
of your Maiefties benefit, and vnabling me to attend my charge. Thefe
are therefore moil hnmblie to entreat your Sacred Maieftie to giue com-
mand that the renunciation be delivered vnto me, and that the Earle
maie be vrg'ed to confent thereto, to the effect I maie poffeffe thoie
1 Spottiswood says, " These letters were accompanied with another to the Council, ' for
inhibiting the payment of Stipends to any of the Rebellious Ministers Refusers of the said
Articles cither in Burgh or Land wart, till they shew thair Conformity, and that the same
was testified by the Subscriptions of the Primate or ordinary Bishop.' Which letters
being shewed to the Ministers of Edinburgh, and others that happened to repair to
that City for augmentation of Stipends, did cast them into a great fear, so that, repenting
their wilfulness, as tiny had reason, they became requesters to the Archbishop of St
Andrews to preach, as he was commanded, on Christmas day at Edinburgh, trusting
lii* Majesty should be mitigated by his obedience and intercession for the rest." — (His-
tory, ]
1617.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 527
lands, and difcharge a dnety amongft that people over whom it hath
pleafed your Maieftie to giue me charge. Thus humblie craving pardon
for my boldneffe, in confidence of your princelie care of me, I fhall
never ceafe to praie for manye happie and blefied daies to your
Maieftie, as
Your Sacred Maiefties moft humble and obedient fervant,
Jo. B. of Catiiness.
Edinburgh, December 10, 1617.
To the Kings moft Excellent Maieftie.
CCCXXXL— AN APOLOGETICK AGAINST A FALSE PRETENDED PALI-
NODE OF MR ARCHIBALD SYMSON, MINISTER AT DALKEYTH,
XL DECEMBER 1617.
Rycht Honorabill and weilbeloued Brethrein of the Minifterie,
and others good Chriftians within the Kirk and Kingdome of Scotland,
who loues the caus of Chrift without hypocrifie or fuperftition : It hes be-
fallen to me, as it did to St Paul, that quhen he newlie had efcaped
i'ckipwrake, and wes warming him on the fchore, a viper lap upone his
hand ; fo I, not as yit frie of my waird, am impetched with viperous
calumnies, and from Charibdis am fallen and driuen upon the flintie
rockes of Scilla. It is true quhilk the ancient Father faid, Diabolus nunc
rugit, leo nunc sibilat vt draco : He roared upon me as did the lyon
upone Samfon, and I wes not affrayed, bot reioyced in all my tribula-
tions ; now he hes his cheaping and whifpering lyke a ferpent, bot 1
truft, be Gods power, to fchaik that viper into the fyre, and to be fred
from his lies. And for this caufe I haue abruptlie, and upone the hid-
den heiring of my Recantation fpread abroad to your Chriftian eares,
leaft it fould fink in and take impreflion into your mynds, thought
good be this my prefent Apologie to make ane accompt unto yow, as
528 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1617-
vnto a common feruant, of my procciding ather be word or write in this
my Lift tryall at Edinburgh, the 11th of December 1G17 ; quhilk I fall
declare fo fcruelie, that fcher fall none be able, no nocht of the grcateft
adverfares, to impugne the fame.
Vpone the 11th of December 1617, I compeared before the Lordes of
his Heyghnes Coinmiffion, ther being prefent the tuo Archbifchopes,
thrie Bifchopes, Argylc, Galloway, and Dumblane, and my Lord San-
quhar, and after came my Lord Eglintone.
The Archbifchop of Sandtandrews faid unto me, Ye wrote a letter to
the Lordes of his Heyghnes Commiffion, defyring to come hame and
put ordour to your affaires, quhilk wes granted. Now, what are ye to
fay or craue of them ?
Ansirer. Nothing.
Archbischop. Then I fee ye will haue us to offer yow conditions of
peace, and ye will fute none, hot goe tell the wyfes of Edinburgh that
ye haue gotten your will of the Bifchopes ?
Answer. I vfe nocht to take iniun&ions of my minifterie fra wyfes.
Archbischop. Ye are depryued.
Answer. I deny it. I Hand heir the Minifler of Chrilt. Thir 31
yeiris haue I taught the Gofpell of Chrift in one place, and ye are not
able to depriue me.
Archbischop. Why came ye not to San&andrews and compeired, feing
ye had to do with a King, and a wyfe King ?
Answer. I wes prevented be ficknes, contracted be long byding on the
fea, be cold and falling, as my Lord Brunteland can tell, in whofe
[company] I wes ; and in taken I wes mynded to come, I left my
clothes in my hoft's hous in San&andrews.
Archbischop. Why wrote [ye] that Latin letter reproaching the
ordour of the Kirk of Ingland, calling them Tricas Anylkanas?1
Answer. It wes a privie letter, and I could not fuppone ye wold deale
fo rnchearitablie with me as to fchaw it to the King.
Archbischop. He afked it four tymes before I gaue it.
Answer. As for the writes thcmfelues, if I erred in them, I erred
1 See this letter printed as Nu. CITXYIII.
1617.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 529
with John Calvin, who in his Epiftle written to the Inglifch Church in
Frankfurd, in the dayes of Quein Mary, calles them fo : I erred with
Beza, who in [his] 8 Epiftle written to Grindall Bifhop of London, calles
them nugas et quisquilias: I erred with Mr John Spottifwood, your
Father, Superintendent, who, in the fubfcription to the Bifhops of Ing-
land, is laft in ordour, bot firft in worth.
Archbischop. It is true Mr John Spottifwood calles them triffles, in that
Epiftle, bot Mr John Spottifwood prophecied that the Prefbiteries wold
be the wracke of the Kirke of Scotland.
Answer. No ; be the contrare, the ancient monuments of our Kirk,
yit extant, recordes that he wes the cheife advauncer and eftablifcher of
them.
Archbischop. Ye moft go to your waird agane.
' Answer. Whair ?
ArMischop. To Monrois.
AnSiver. God fend no warre ; I am content.
Archbischop. I fee, ye will grant no offence done to the King anent
medling with Ingland.
Ansioer. Yis, if his Maieftie is offendit at any mention I haue made
of the Churche of Ingland, I am tenfold more offendit.
In all this my triall, I wes neuer pofed with the Proteftation, bot
onlie anent my compearance at Sanclandrews and the privie letter, and
then I wes remoued to the bake hous, and the Archbifhop of Glafgow
and my Lord Sanquhare wes fent from the reft, as tuo whome they fup-
poned tendred me, that thei mycht draw me to fome conformitie,
whereby I mycht pacifie the King. They admitted no witneffes ; for
the gentlemen and my parochinaris were remoued, and onlie Mr James
Porteus, Minifter at Lafwaid, Mr Patrik Forreft, Procuratour Fifcall,
and Mr Edward Marfchell, Clark and wryter of my depofitions, being
prefent, the faid Archbifhop and Lord Sanquhare protefting their
fauour to me, defyred me to refufe no honeft meanes of my awne peace,
whome I thanked, and faid I wold refufe none quhilk wold ftand with
the peace of my confcience. Then we reffoned upone thrie things.
1. Anent the Proteftation, that I wold craue his Maiefties fauour,
3x
530 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1017.
and acknowledge a fault that I had fubfcryued it. To whom I anfwered,
That I wold ncuer do itt whyle I leiucd, Godwilling; for it wes moft
equitable in itfelfc, and I repented not any thing I had done therin
anent the fubftancc therof; hot if his Maieftie be offendit at the forme,
how it wes concerned, ad pcenam, quhilk is a paffiue obedience, whereby
1 haue giucn obedience, thir 8 months nereby, added to the end of our
Protcftation, be Mr Peter Hewat, pennar therof, I am forrie that his
Maieftie is offendit therwith, and nane of vs all will ftick to any pairt
of tonne therin, whereat his Maieftie may take any juft exception ; onlie,
the mater being fafe whereunto we adhere with one confent, alfweill
thefe that are receincd vnto his fauour as the remanent. To whome the
Archbifhop anfuered, Mr Archibald, my hart, we moft not deale with
Princes be diftin&ions, bot moft forme it in better termes, and more
plauiiMe. I anfuered, Let yow forme my mynd in better termes, keiping
onlie the fubftance. *
Nixt, Ye will confeffe that your feeknes wes the caufe of your
abfence from Sanctandrews, and not contempt of his Maiefties auto-
ritie. To whome I anfuered, I wold trewlio.
Lift, He defyred me to craue pardone at his Maiefties hands for
chopping at the eftate of the Kirk of Ingland. I anfuered, Ye haue
hard euen now, before the Archbilhop, that Calvin, Bcza, and his
Father, ar my patrons, and if I erred, I erred with them ; yit becaus his
Maieftie is offendit at my medling with that Kirke, I offered, both at
Stirling and Sanctandrews, to fatiffie his Maieftie theranent, quhilk yit
! refute not to doe.
Then I went to the Buird, with Mr Edward Marfchell, Clarke, who con-
cerned a forme of my Confeffion, to be fubfcryued be me; the tenour
whereof followcs, and written with Mr Edward's awin hand, quhilk I
1 haue receiued fra him, in prefence of David Richifone bailzio, George
I Vines fervitour to Mr Edward, Archibald Ros clarke of Dalkeyth,
and ane Oflieiar of Amies, bot riven through the firft article, and
fcraped through fa with a pen fenfyne, for quhat caufe God knowes, and
tyme will declare ; yit not fo bot all the beholders mycht fee quhat wes
written be him, and what wes niendit be me prefentlie be a pen yit
extant : —
1617.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 531
(TAe copie drawin out of the originall ad verbum.)
Mr Archibald Symson prefentlie declared, That he is forie that his
prefence and medling with the Proteftation [lies] offendit his Maieftie.
In the firft copie, dyted be the Archbifliop, wes written " any offence
that is giuen to his Maieftie," I fcraiped out " giuen," and wrote upone
the heade " taken." Wherewith the Lords were not content, and for
both, pat in " hes offendit his Maieftie ; " fo that heereby I haue not dif-
claimed the Proteftation, nather be word nor my fenfe, bot am forie that
his Maieftie fould offend at my medling therwith. For as concerning the
Proteftation, his Maieftie him felfe confeffes that is lawfull to any eftate
or perfone of quhatfomeuer degrie formallie to proteft, that be no impofed
law his auncient priviledges or liberties be hurt or diminifched till he be
hard fpeaking for himfelf ; and quhat did we more, bot in the name of
the Kirk, being all members theroff, proteft that we fould not gette any
dead ftraike at that Parliament, quhill fcho wes lawfullie conveened
and hard for hirfelfe : And this his Maieftie confeffed, and out of his fin-
gulare wifdome and equitie hes not fuffered that law to paffe in preiu-
dice of the Kirk. Nixt, The nature of a Parliament is, that all Eftates
hes libertie to fpeake frielie, and complean wherein they haue juft
caufe of greivance. Laft, The law of all nations, ciuill and canonical],
grants protestari et mmdicare cuivis liceat.
The Second Article.
For his abfence from Sanfitandrews, he protefts befor God, and will
proue be honeft witnes, That the true caufe thereof wes [onlie] his
feeknes, contracted be long falling and cold, quhilk he contracted upon
the fea.
I agrie with the fecond Article : I deleited the word " onlie" ; for I had
ibme other cauffes quhilk ar nocht neceffare to expreffe at this tyme.
The Thrid Article.
As for his letter, quhilk wes written in Latin, and came in his Maief-
ties hands in Sanctandrews, he declares, That it repented him from his
hart that he fould haue mentioned any thing therin quhilk tuitched
582 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1617.
the ordour and eftate of the Kirk of Ingland, and fould haue bene
offenfiue to his Maieftie.
This I grant, I offered at Stirling and San6tandrews.
Conclusion.
For all quhilk things wherein he hes overfein himfelfe, and offendit
his gracious Maieftie, he will moft humblje craue his Maiefties fauour
and pardone; and promifes faythfullie, in all tyme cuming, neuer to doe
the lykc. As alfo, defyres the Archbifhop of Sanctandrews, and remanent
Lords of his Maiefties Heygh Commifiion, that he may be permitted to
ufe his Minifterie at his owne Kirk of Dalkeith.
There ar thrie things hard in this Conclufion, quhilk I corrected :
(1) It wes written " for all quhilk things," and I deleited " all"; for
nather wes I defyred to craue pardone for the Proteftation, nather vit
wold I cuer ycild that to the Archbifhop, 'nather does it admit anv
grammatical] conftru&ion that I fould craue pardone for the firft tuo
articles ; for it is not agrieable with reafibn or common fenfe that I fould
craue pardone at the King that I wes fory that he wes offendit with
my medling with the Proteftation, quhilk, if I fould fay or do the equiva-
lent theroff is, I wes blyth that he wes offendit, quhilk no natural] man
wold wifch me to wryte, nor wold I be fo foolifch as to wryte it. Nixt,
fould 1 craue him pardon for the fecond article, that I wes feeke, and
could not come to Sanctandrews, that were to falfifie my felfe, that it
wis not feeknes, bot the contempt of his Maiefties authoritie quhilk
withheld me, quhilk neecffarelie fould follow, if I craned him pardon for
my abfcnce ; bot the relatiue " quhilk" refumes onlie the laft point
antecedent, to witt, my medling with' the Inglifch effaircs, for quhilk I
craue him pardone. Further, I remoued the word " My Lord," as a
livle not competent to Bifchopes. Laft, in my fute to the Lords of his
Maiefties Heygh Connniflion, where it wes written "that he may4Je
reftored to his Minifterie,"' 1 deleited " reftored," and wrote " per-
mitted to vie," for the former -rt^rd wold have imported ane acknow-
legment to my depolition.
This is all that 1 haue done or written, wherein ye fee that 1 abyde
1617.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 533
conftant at the Proteftation ; and if God pleafe, rnynds to doe fo, not-
withanding of the loffe of fubftance, health, liberties temporall; for,
vbi Spiritus Domini est, ibi libertas, nather land I euer greater freadome
and prefence of the Lord then in the Caftle of Edinburgh, Aberdein,
and Monrois ; and God is my witnes, I had no fting in my confcience,
at the hour of my appearant departure at Drumfladie, and after in
Monrois, for any medling with the Proteftation ; for I am affured God
approved it, and I reioyced in my fuffering more then I am forie this
day that the King offendit with my medling with the fame, quhilk is
the fartheft I haue faid, or mynds to fay, and all my honeft brethren,
in whofe name, and at whofe command, I did fubfcryue it, will affirme
the fame ; bot tyme wilbe a tryar fchortlie of all our myndeaiif we
accept not vpone vs thefe novelties againil quhilk we protefted. For
me, I acknowledge me- one of the leaft and weakeft of yow all, and
defyres that I may be ftrengthened be your prayers with God, that
as I am obie6ted to the eyes of many, I may Hand conftant vpone
the montane of God quhilk cannot be moved ; and quhatever waik-
nes or humane frailtie may befall me, 1 hope in God, if I fall with
Peter, qui ore necjauit et corde canfessus est, yit I truft neuer to betray
the Lord's caufe with Judas1 (who lies oner many brethrene alreadie),
for the hyre of wnrichteoufnes, nather yit with Balaam for preferment,
nather yit with Gehezi, at this tyme, to begg the talent from Naaman.
Bot feing I bane daylie wairning and aduertifment be feeknes and infir-
mities of my departure, I truft God, who begane and continewed his
grace, fall finifch his worke in me ; and, in the meane tyme, I will
walke through good report and euill report, povertie and ritches, health
and feaknes, till I come to his Kingdome ; to quhilk God, of his infinit
mercie, bring yow all andjne, in his appointed tyme. Amen.
1 Spottiswood has quoted the above passage, charging Symson with inconstancy and
change, in having " dispersed an Apologetick (as he entitled it), wherein making a Gloss
upon every word of his Confession, he concluded, that whatsoever weakness," &c. " This
(he adds) I have remembered by the way, to make the humours of these men seen, and
the small regard they take of saying and gainsaying, when it maketh for their purpose." —
(History, p. 536.)
534 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1617.
CCCXXXII.— THE EARL OF DUNFERMLINE, LORD CHANCELLOR, TO
KING JAMES.
Maist Sacked Souerane,
This Yeare, almaift now worne to end, hes bene vnto this land
and Kingdome a yeare oft1 Jubile, and a yeare of fingulair joye ; this
Kingdome being this yeare nocht onlie illuftrat, as all other yeares, be
your Royall and famous a&iouns, bot alio marvelouflie decored and
inritched be yiour Prencelie and glorious prefence and Majeftie : lies
furneift greate comfort, vigour, and flrenthe to this bailie eflaitt, all
members and pairtis thairoff.
The particuler fucceffe of fpeciall acliouns I fliall heir breiflie, accord-
ing to my bund deutie and cuiftum, tuitche vnto your Maieftie, that ye
may have a prefent vieu and jouiflance of the froottes of yiour happie
and good gouernament owir this peopill.
The end of the laft yeare, and firit entrie to this yiour counfall in this
Eflaitt, be yiour ordonance, beftoued on the confideratioun and appro-
batioun of certane Articles, concludit at ane Generall Alfemblie of the
Kirk, kecped at Aberdene, in Auguft, before thir fpeciall articles war
approwin, That thair fould be ane general Catechis formed, to be vni-
uertalic teatched to all the vouthis in this countrie : That in euirie
Parifchc thair lhould be ane Schoolc ; and in euerie Parifche, ane Regif-
ter of the navmes oft1 all borne and baptized, and off all died.
The Marqueis off Huntlie, and Erie of Erroll, be yiour Sacred Majef-
ties good meanes, intreatie, argumentis, perfuafiouns, and mediatioun,
hes bene at laft reduced to conformitie in all neceffair poynts and arti-
cles of relligioun, and fullie reconciliat withe the Kirk of this Kingdome :
Lykcas, yiour Sacred Majeftie hes alfo agreed the faidis tua Nobillmen
and thair freindis, in a perticuler perrollus deadlie feade was fallin out
amongs thame felfis, and lykclie to haue maide greate trublc betuix
thanie, for ilmichter and bloode betuix Laird of Gight Gordoun, and
ane brother of the Erie off Erroll's, and fome others his frcinds.
Tile queftioun of bloode, ftauehter. and all criminal! or ciuill acliouns.
1617] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 535
betuix the faidis parteis, being remitted, and compromitted to yiour
maift Royall Majefties perfoun and arbitrall decreit, was, be yiour Higk-
nes, maift circunifpectlie, wyilie, and amicablie compofed and decydit,
to baithe the pairteis eafe and contentment ; fua that tbej war baithe,
by yiour Prencelie command, before yiour Counfall, in September laft,
broght to full reconciliation and amitie.
Ane other truble, appeirand to haue fallin out betuix the Erie of
Perthe and Lord Lewingftoun, for queftiouns of mairtchis in thair
woodchs, forrefts, and hountings, be yiour Sacred Majefties wyfe com-
mandement and directioun, was fubmitted to freindis of thair awin, and
is finalie weel compofed.
The Erie of Mar, ane auld, truftie, and familiar ferwand to yiour
Majeftie, from yiour infancie, be yiour Prencelie ordonance, inftalled in
the full plaice, dignitie, and adminiftratioun of the office of Threafau-
rarie in this Kingdome, with greatte applaufe and allowance off all.
In Januar it pleafed your Highnes, be yiour fauorabill letter, fignifie
vnto yiour Counfall, yiour full refolutioun to honour this countrie withe
yiour Royall prefence in May efter, declairing thairwithe the reafouns
mowed yiour Sacred Majeftie to this determinatioun — reafouns full of
wifdome, lowe, and kyndnes to this yiour native foylle. The letter was
found fua worthie, and was fua acceptabill to the haill Counfall, as thaj
thocht fitt copies of the fame fould be difperfed to all Schyres and
Diocefes, to make all yiour good fubjects acquent with this yiour High-
nes fauorable deffeynge, whilk rejoyced the hairtis of all good pepill in
the land.
Ane Conventioun of the Eftaittis was drawin togither, onder yiour
Highnes authoritie, to mak all deu prepai'atioun for honnorabill reffaitt
of yiour Royall perfoun, and all yiour nobill companie.
The Eftaittes maift willinglie granted ane fubfidie off twa hundrethe
thoufand poundis, to fupplie the neceffair chargis off fie atie extraordi-
nair and maift honorabill erand.
Directiouns war gevin for reparatioun off all hie wayes, parfyting off
all yiour Sacred Majefties bourns, palices, and caftells ; jnnumerabill
craftifmen of all fortis entered to all warkis, all, be cair and diligence,
maide readie in deu tyme, abowe all expectatioun ; ffor the lyke was
536 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1617-
newir fecnc in this land of before : greatte ordonr tayne for abundance
and ftorc off all prouifiouns and viures for horffe or men, and for honeft
ludgeinga to all yionr Majeftiea trajne and companies, in euirie pairt
where yec war to rel'ort.
Yiour Majeftiea Chappell in Halyroodhous, builde wp of new, with all
ornamentis and deu furnitonr micht be requyred in any royall Chappell,
and niaift manilieklic dekH and fett furthe.
Furnitour off filwer wark, and plaitte, tapefferie, ritche beddis and
bedding; and all fie neceffairis for ane royall houfe, fend for be yiour
Sacred Majeftiea awin directioun, and prowydit in greatte ftore from all
pairtis, whilkis ftill remaynis in yiour wairdropps and palices, may feme
for many aiges, as the fame ferued yiour Sacred Majeftie at this tyme
maiil honorablie and plentifullie.
About the middis of Maij, your Highnes entered in this Kingdome,
accompanyed withe good number of yiour Highnes Nobilitie, Prelatts,
Officers, and Counfallours of Ingland, and good number alfo of Nobill-
men, Officers, and Counfallours of this Eftaitte, fie as yiour Majeftie
had ordoncd and commandit to meett yiow at Barwicke.
Yiour Sacred Majeftie honored firft my Lord Erie off Hoome's houfe
of Dunglas, withe your maift gracious prefence ; and nixt, the Erie of
Yintoun's houfe of Setoun ; was in baithe the faidis Nobillmens houffis,
with all yiour Nobilla, reffaued and intertenyed to thair powar, althoc
far onder yiour dew, vit to yiour contentment and all yiour companies,
honorablie and magnificklie.
Then came yiour Majeftie to yiour awin Palice off Halyeroodhoufe.
making yiour entrie throw yiour good toun of Edinburght, whaire ye
war maille joyfullie reffaued, and vifited that Kirk, hard preatching, and
was eonwoyed be the hail] toun in honorabille equippage to yiour Paliee.
Thair was yiour Majeftiea maift ordinair refidence Maij, Junij, and
Julij, vifitting alwayes, be tvmea, Fyffe, Angus, Perthe, Sterlingfchyre.
and other pairtis aboutt, baithe yiour awin palices, and Nobilhnenns
houflea in the countrie; till, in Auguft, yiour Highnes retired be the
Wall countrie, from Clal'gow, Paflay, Hammiltoun, Sanquhar, Drum-
laynrig, and Lyncluden, to Cairleill in Ingland, and from that fordwart
to yiour ordinair royall faitte at Loudoun.
1617.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 537
It wald requyre a greatte volume to recompt the greatte benefitts
and commodities, baithe the natiouns, Inglifche and Scottis, hes bad in
this yiour Majefties jornay and fejorne in Scotland ; all manifefting
yiour Ma]efties incomparabill wifdome in that interpryfe.
Since yiour Sacred Majeftie attayned to the Croun of Ingland, thair
hes nothing bene done, nor meaned to, could advance and furder a per-
fytte Vnioun of the twa natiouns, ma far as this hes done.
Yiour Majeftie had heir, in yiour train and companie, a number of
Inglifche Prelatts, maift wyfe, learned, and grave nobilles, that merited
juftlie the honour and ftille of nobilitie, and wald haue kyithed fua
abowe others, in any ciuill corner of the warld, courteffe, honnorabill,
amiabill, traclabill, circumfpe6l, euer reddie to all woorthie aetiouns,
mowed be thair good behauiour all men in Scotland, to honour, rever-
ence, and admire baith thame and thair vertuis.
Lykeas, on the other fyde, be yiour Majefties prencelie dire&iouns,
yiour Counfall in Scotland ordonad all, fua as nayne of your trayne or
court could fee or fynd anye thing in this land, might gif him any dif-
taifte, or occaiioun of mifcontentment.
Plentie of all to all forts of men ; all vfed be all poffibill ciuilitie, good
ordour, and difcretioun, fua that thaj granted and affermed all thay land,
where ewir thaj war in this land, all the good treatment could be wifched
in any good countrie, and all far from that barbaritie, thaj war almaifte
perfwadit before, did regime in thir Northerne pairts. This maide a
greate vnioun of the hairtis betuix baithe Natiouns, the ane, fynding all
honour and courtefie fua frielie offered to thame, and the others, finding
all fua weell and thankfullie accepted, and fua weill thocht off and
acknauledgitt.
In all the tyme of yiour Majefties remayning in this Kingdome (a
mater marvelous and to be admired), in fua greate companies, and fua
many nobillmen and great perfonages off tua natiouns conveyned, neuir
any aclion, woord, or appeirance of any difcord, variance, or offence,
betuix anye of the natiouns withe other, for whatfumewir caufe. I doubt
gif euer the lyke hes bene fene, at fie occafioun off fua frequent a meit-
ing of men, ftrayngers, and onknowen to other.
To augment and ftrengthin this amitie and kyndnes, yiour Majeftie,
3 Y
5:38 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1617.
inaift wyflie and prencclie, admitted, fworne, on yiour Priuey Counfall
and Ccmnfall of Eftaitt in Scotland, good number of yionr nobles, offi-
cears, and Prclattis off Ingland, was heir •withe yiow in companie : was
all maid willinglie rellaucd, maide priucy and acquent withe all our pro-
ceedings, and alwayes honored to our powars.
Yiour Majeftie had thamc, alfo, all withe yiow, in our Counfall Houle
and Seffioun, or Soucrane Court off Juftice in this kingdome, where, in
yionr Sacred Majefties prefenee, was fyndrie a&iouns, according to our
ordinair formis, baith dil'puted and decydit ; the ordour and fafioun
trhereoff thaj werie weill allowed and commendit, albeit, in dyuers
poyntis, different and difconforme from thairis.
In the time of yiour Sacred Majefties aboade in this kingdome, was
alfo anc Parliament haldin, in the monethe of Junij, illuftrat be greatter
concurfe and nombir of the Nobilitie and all Eftaittis, nor hes bene
feene before, in our aige ; ciuile and weill ordered in all refpeetis, daylie
honored be yiour Highnes royall prefenee, directed and gyditt be yiour
wifdome.
Many notable good aclis eftableift in this Parliament, for better ordour
off Parliament in all tymes to cuim, for reftauratioun of the decayed
Churche eftaitt ; for mantcnance of peace and juftice amongs all fub-
jectis ; for cleiring of rightis and tytills, and awoyding of pleas ; for all
good ordour in the countrie.
And, in confideratioun the tyme was fchorte, nocht anfuerable to
yiour prencelie zealle and erneft defyre to liwe all heir at perfytte
on lour, the niaift important affairis of yiour Eftaittis, baithe at hayme
and withe forraync Princefs, drawing yow to Ingland agayne, for renieid
to the greatto inconvenient hes bene perfawed and heavilic complained
on. thir manye yeares, off the pouertie of the eftaitt of the Miniiters of
the Kirk, preatcheours and teatcheours of Goddis holie woord, and Mi-
niiters off the Sacramentis of our faluatioun ; in yiour hciche judgc-
tnent, lies this Parliament furncift withe fufficient commiflioun the
number of 33, mixt of all the Eftaittis, to conveyne at certane tymes,
'i I to prowyde, as maift eommodiouflic maybe, to cwirie kirk fufficient
ftipend for anc Minifter, outt of the readdieft of the tcvnds of the faidis
kirkis. withe reafonable confideratioun of recompence to the poffeffours
1617.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 539
of the teynds ; ane commiffioun the maift folemne and beft adwyfed on,
and whilk is hoped fhall produce als greatte and good effectis, as any
lies euer bene in this land.
At yiour Majefties going furthe of this countrie, giuen on the Mairt-
chis betuix Ingland and Scotland, it pleafed yow direct command to
yiour Counfall, to call all the landflords and cheiffis of Clannis, or other
principall commanderis, in the Middlefchyres, and make thame all
renew the generall band, baithe onder thair aithe and fubfcriptioun, for
manteyning of the peace ; anfuering for all thair men tenents, ferwandis,
and dependars, and to enter ewirie ane of thame, as thaj fall be called
in juftice. This is the key of all good ordour and obedience in theefe
pairtis, hes bene preciflie obferwed and putt to executioun, be the Coun-
fall in all poyntis, conforme to yiour prencelie ordonance.
In this laft Noueinber, onder yiour Highnes authoritie, and withe
affiftance of Commiffioners, appoynted be yiour Sacred Majeftie, did
conweyne, in the cittie of Saint Androis, ane Generall Affemblie of the
haill Kirk of this kingdome ; agreed amongs thame on fyndrie poyntis
and articles, importing to the policie and good ordour in Godd's feruice,
and for vniformitie in adminiftratioun of the Sacramentis.
This fame monethe of Nouember, war the Commiflionei-s appointed
be the laft Parliament to attend on the plantatioun of the Kirkis and
prouifionis for Minifters ftipends, conwyned werie ordourlie, and entered
to thair warke ; proceids werie weill and circumfpe6tlie in the fame, and
ar lyke to bring that to good perfection.
The haill cuftuimis of this kingdome, vpon fyndrie good reafouns and
refpe6tis, weel weyed and confidered be yiour omcears and Commffion-
ers, appoynted for manageing of yiour rentis, layed donn before yiour
royall Majeftie, and be your royall command, ar this yeare ondertayne
onder yiour Majefties awin nayme, to be collected, on all hazarde, to
your behowe, vtilitie, and proffeit ; and be the direetioun of your High-
nes Commiffioners, wha daylie beftowis fuim tyme on the confideratioun
of theefe affairis, ar maift cairfullie attendit wpon ; wee hope fhall turne
to naa loife to your coffers in end, will alwayes make yiour officears and
Counfall privey to the haill eftaitt of theefe affairis.
This yeare hes bene vnto your Sacred Majeftie glorious, in fua far as
540
ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING
[1617.
it lirs furneift vnto yiow l'ubjecT; to actions will be of memorable honour
;ui(l admiratioun to all pofteriteis : lies bene alfo to this Kingdoms
bappie and fortunat be the fauour and fchyning off yionr maill gracious
prefence wpon ws, and be rair and manye good ordours in governament,
your Maieftie lies brocht in, maid ws to fie, and fatled among ws, baithe
in Ciuill and Ecclefiafticall eilaitt.
I man heir make end; becaufe my ingyne nor penne, is noeht habill
to furneifche me woords I may onywyfe efteeme anfuerabill to the greatte
obligatiouns all this countrie and natioun hes, to the honours, fauours,
and infinit good your Majeltie hes done wnto ws. Taking, thairfore, my
leive, withe the maift humbill and reuerend kilfe of your Royal] hand,
wifches vnto yiour Sacred Majeftie, from the greatte King of all, all
happines, grandeur, prolperitic, and contentment,
Yiour maift Sacred Majefties maift humbill, affectionat,
and obedient fubjeel; and feruitour,
Prom Edinburgh, 23 December 1(>1 7
Dl'NFF.RMELJNi:.
( 'i i XXXIII.— HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE PRIVY COUNCIL, AND
ACT OF COUNCIL ENJOINING THE OBSERVANCE OF THE FIVE HOLY-
HAYS.
Apud Edinburgh, 22 day of January 1018.
i hani ellaih.
Thesaubair.
B. st Andbois.
li. GLASG1 .
B Ross.
Lynltthqw.
WvXTOWN.
Abercorxk.
Loi BEAMS.
Ti LLIBARDIN.
ROXBI RGHE.
VlCOl M OF LAUDKRD U.K.
SCOONE.
Cfl W-.TOIX.
Binning.
Carnegi I .
L. Ebskine.
L. Fleming.
M". of Elphingston.
Previe Se.vle.
Thesaubair Depute.
•ll VI H E I 'i.l'.IIK.
Clerk of Register.
Aduocat.
KlLSAYTH.
Bbi ntyland.
Rumors.
Medop.
curriehill.
Mabchinstocn.
Mr P. ROLLOE.
SB Andbo Keb.
CONSEBVATOtTR.
1617.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 511
Ane Act anentfyve halie dayis.
Forsamekle as it is the dewtie of all goocle Christians to keepe
in perpetuall remembrance the grite and ineftimable benefeitis quhilkis
it has pleifit the Almichtie God, in his deir fone Jefus Chrift, and in
his exceiding grite loue touardis mankynd, to bellow uponn thame ; and
in a revirent commemoratioun thairof, to obferve, and fpend fome cer-
taine dayes in devotioun and godlie exerciies, quhairthrough the dew
refpect and thankfull rememberance of thefe fo grite benefitis, be never
fufferit to pafs in oblivioun : And the Kingis Majeftie acknowledgeing
the innumerable favouris and bleffingis quhairwith it hath pleafit the
divyne Maieftie of God to blifie his Highnes from tyme to tyme : Thair-
foir his Maieftie, oute of his trew l'efpect to the honnour of God, and to
haif Him honnourit be all his people, hes thought meete and expedient,
and by thir prefents commandis and ordainis, that according to the
exemple of the Kirk, quhen the fame wes in griteft puritie, and molt
free of corruptioun and errour, thair falbe ane univerfall ceffatioun and
abftinance throughout this haill Kingdome frome all kynd of hulbandrie
and handie labour, upoun the Holie dayis following, to witt, upoun Chrift-
mas day, quhilk wes the day of the Birthe of Chrift ; upoun Goode Fry-
day, quhilk wes the day of his Paffioun ; upoun Eafter or Pafche dav,
quhilk wes the day of his Eefurrectioun ; and upoun the day of his Alcen-
lioun, and upoun Wliitfonday ; to the effect his Maiefties fubiectis may
the better attend the holie exerciies quhilkis his Maieftie, with advice of
the Fatheris of the Kirk, will appoint to be keept at thefe tymes in the
Kirk. And for this effect, his Maieftie, with advice of the Lordis of his
Secreit Counfell, ordanis letters to be direct, chargeing all his Maiefties
liegeis, alfweele to brugh as to land, be oppin proclamatioun at the Mer-
cat Croceis of the heade burro wes of his Kingdome, and other places
neidfull, that thay and euerie one of thame abfteane from all kynd of
hulbandrie and handie labour on the faidis holie dayis of Chriftmas,
Paffioun day, Pafche day, the Afcenfioun day, and Witfonday, to the
effect thay may the better attend the holie exercifeis quhilkis falbe
appointed to be keept thefe dayes, as faid is. Certifieing all and fundrie
perfonis that fall contraveene and do in the contrair heirof, that thay
542 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1017.
falbe punifl with all rigour, as rebellious or difobedient pcrfonis, con-
tempucris of bis Maiellie and bis autboritie.
Folloicis
His Maiesties Letter for the Warrand of the Act above written.
Bight Truftie and right weilbelouit Cofine and Councillour, and right
truftie and weilbelouit Councillouris, We greete you weele. Whereas,
out of our trew refpect to bonnour God and to bare him honnourit be
all oure people, we ar pleafed to appoint eertane foleinne dayis to be
keept as Holie dayis, and fpent in devotion in commemoratioun of tbe
fpeciall benefeitis bellowed on mankynd by Cbrift. It is onre pleafour
that vow caus a proclamatioune be formed and proclamed, in all plaices
requifite and accuftomed, commanding all people, alfweele in burgb as
to landwart, in all tyme comeing, to abfteene frome all kynd of hufbandrie
and bandie labour on tbe holie dayis of Cbriftmas, Goode Fryday, Eafter,
Whitfonday, and Afcenfioun day, to tbe end tbay may tbe better attend
tbe holie exercifes qubilkis We, by aduife of the Bifhopps, -«ill appoint to
be keept at thofe tymes in tbe Cburcbe, with certificatioun to tbe con-
tra ueneris, That tbay falbe puniflied with all rigour as diffobedient and
rebellious perfonis, contempnaris of Ws and our autboritie. And not
doubting of youre reddie conformitie to this our pleafour, we bid vow
fareweele.
Gevin at Newmercat tbe xiiij of Januar 1618.
( !( (XXXIV.— HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE ARCHBISHOPS
axi> r.isuops.
James Rex.
Right reverend Fathers in God, Right truftie and well-beloved
Counfellors, and reverend Fathers in God, Our truftie and well-beloved,
Wee greet you will. Tbe BHlioprieke of Aberdene being now voyde,
1618.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 543
by deceafe of the late Bifliop ; and Wee being fufficientlie perfwaded,
as well of tbe learning, gravitie, wifdome, and true godlinesse of
Patricke Forbes of. Code, enhabling him duelie to exercife and dis-
charge the calhng of a Bifliop, as of the great and earneft defyre of
Our beft affected fubjecls of that Diocefe, to haue him eftablifhed their
Ordinarie, as was well witneffed by their expreflion thereof at the laft
vacancie of the fayd Sea. We haue therefore made fpeciall ehoyfe of
the fayd Patricke, to bee thereto preferred. Requyring you, for the
more fpeedie and folemne performance thereof, to caufe forme, and
hafte vnto Vs, fuch writs as Wee are to figne for that effect, and in
everie other thing appertayning therevnto, to proceed according to the
ordinance of the late Act made in Our laft Parliament, anent the elec-
tion of Archbifhops and Bifhops. Which not doubting but yee will
precifelie performe, Wee bid you farewell.
At Newmarket, the xxvij of Ianuarie 1618.
To the right reverend Fathers in God, Our
right truftie and well-beloved Counfel-
lours, and to the reverend Fathers in God,
Our truftie and well-beloved, the Arch-
bifhops and Bifhops of Our Kingdome
of Scotland.
OCCXXXV THE ARCHBISHOPS AND BISHOPS TO PATRICK FORBES,
LAIRD OF CORSE.
Right reverend and loving Brother,
His Majeftie having made ehoyfe of you, before all others, to
the Bifhopricke of Aberdene, and fignified the fame by his letters vnto
vs, which you fhall receaue herewith inclofed, we could doe no lefi'e,
than to impart it vnto you, and witneffe the joy of our hearts, for this
his Majeftie's refolution : Not fo much for the favour and refpect wee
544 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1618
perceaue carried by his Majeftie to your felfe, though that both with
vou and vs fliould bee of no little account, as that wee forefee the great
profit that is to redound to the Church of God by, this your advance-
ment. Others doe interpret, according to their myndes, that thcfe
places are places of honour and cafe, and for that refpect defired: But
wee, who bane had the experience of fo manie years fervice, know that
the care and burthen gocth farre beyond either commoditie or honour.
And were it not for God's fervice, and the vpholde of his Church
amonglt vs, wee could banc wifhed to line private Alinifters, rather than
in the rowmes wee are called vnto. But in fucb callinges, as you knowe
better than anie of our felues, the burthen and care of the charge mud
no more deterre vs than thefe outward fhowes of honour and eafe allure
vs. To feeke places of this kynde may well bee thought ambition, but
to refufe, and draw back, when God calleth, is difobedience ; and if it
be done for the efchewing of vexations, it is farre from the Chriftian
courage and refolution we fliould all haue. Now, wee are aflured, if anie
man did ever come to this place by God's calling, you are bee ; whether
wee confider the inftance made in the laft vacancie of that Sea, by all
i lie Miniflers and gentlemen of the countrey, which wee perceaue his
Majeftie doeth not forget, or your owne behaviour in it, that by the
moyen of none, direct or indirect, hath made fute to be preferred. And
therefore, as we from our heartes thanke God, who bath put it into his
Majefties heart to goe this way, fo wee niuft in the name of God, and
by the loue you beare to the mayntaynance of His trueth, requeft and
require vou to accept the calling, alluring your felfe, that wee for our
partes, howe long it pleafeth God to vfe our fervice here, Audi not be
wanting, by His grace, in anie thing that becommeth the Brethren of
our vocation towardes you. And our certayne hope is, that notwith-
ftanding all tbcfe fightes wee endure with enemies without, and thoi'e
that fliould be friends within, our God fliall giue vs ftrength to beare out,
and by His blehing in the ende juftifie to the world our proceedinges ;
wherein having you to bee a labourer and worker with vs, wee fball bee
I'o much the more encouraged. As to the reft that fliould be done for
your formall cntrie, wee remit the care thereof to him whom it con-
1618.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIES. 545
cernetk, and commit you at this tyme, and ever, to the protection and
bleffing of Allmightie God.
Tour loving Brethren,
Saynct-Andrewes.
Pa. B. of Ross. Ia. Glasgow.
Io. B. Cathness. An. Lismorensis.
Al. B. of Murray.
Edinburgh, 5. February 1618.
To our verie reverend and loving Brother,
the Laird of Corfe.
CCCXXXVI.— PATRICK FORBES OF CORSE, MINISTER OF KEITH, TO THE
ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS.
Bight Honorable, and my good Lord, your Lordfhips letter to
me, and therein enclofed his Majefties letter to your Lordfhip, was
delivered to me the thirteenth of Februar at night, whereby as I had
good notice in what loving and gracious eftimation his Highnefs bath
me, his unworthie fervant, giving thereof evidence in fo liberal and
princely an offer of high imployment, which is feconded with your Lord-
fhips congratulation, and ferious encouragement of undertaking ; fo if I
fhould not make high account thereof, I might be efteemed the moft
ungrate and fenfelefle among men. Neither can my refufing of fo unde-
ferved, unfought for, and unexpected favour, but draw upon me the
imputation of an inexcufable mifregard. If I be not miftaken in the
reafon of my hefitation, wherein I am fo far from difallowing the office
and degree of a Bifhop (as hereupon men might apprehend) that they
being rightly elecled, and defined with fuch moderation of place and
power, as may put reftraint to exceffive ufurpation, and praclifing accord-
ingly, I think it not only a tolerable, but even a laudable and expedient
3z
546 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G18.
policie in the Church, and very well confifting with God's written word,
the onlv rule whereto all the affairs of his houfe fhould be levelled.
Neither would I have your Lordfliip, or any man elfe to think, I being
fo far refolved in the matter itfclf, that becaufe what through prejudices
poffefling the mindes of many (otherwife zealous and godly men), what
through the mifcarriage perhaps of fome men in that calling, hath fallen
to be difliked of diverfe, as my undertaking thereof fliould make no better
in their account nor a Demaf, who for unbracing of the world was Aiding
away from finceritie, and all care of a good confeience. That therefore
either for currying the applaufe of men, or for eviting of manifold mif-
conih-uclions and mifdeemings, I would earneftly decline the calling. I
know very well how great a iin it is to offend one of the leaft ones that
beleeveth in Chrift. But with that I know alfo that he is a man of a
very weal; and unftayed confeience, who is either fo tickled with popular
applaufe, as to be carried be gueffe to a thing without light, thus to
ftrengthen a common giddinefs; or is fo terrified with mifconftructions,
as therefore to omit any dutie, which the honour of God, or good of his
Church requireth of him. I know we rauft walk through good report,
and evil report, and he is a very unfit man for a good purpofe, either in
( ihurch or State, qui ponit rumores ante salutcm. I know how far I have
been fufpected alreadie. Some (otherwife good and holy men) becaufe
my calme, moderat, and equal carriage in our bygone diffraction, agreed
not with the vehemencie of their minde, thought, that therefore, foriboth,
I was taken with the love of fuch things, as (God knoweth) both were,
and iiill are. far from my heart. But being privie to myfelf, and having
the teftimonie of him before whom I walked, upon what refpects, in fo
common, and as I think, lb hurtful a heat on both fides, I have walked
fo equallie and amicablie with all men, 1 will never, God willing, repent
me of that manner of carriage. It is not for me in this age, whereto I
am come, having been fo ftrangely exercifed under the hand of my God,
as I (land a gazing ftock to the world, and windtbaken reed, and weather
beaten wind-thaw, to minde earthly things now, which the Lord hath
I'o far difgufted to me, and me to them alio. If I durft cboofc my own
courfe, I bad rather bave a cottage in fome wildernefe, wherein to drive
out the remanent of my dayes, then to l>e brought any more unto the
1618.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 547
view of the world, and in the mouthes of men. And if I were fo vain
as to be fet for honour, eafe, or cornmoditie ; yet, alas ! what honour
could I look for by accepting a Bifhoprick, whereby the m hides of men,
who now both honour and reverence me, above either my place or merit,
{hall be turned to account me a corrupted man, and ambitious afpirer ?
What eafe might I expecT: in fo toilfome a talk and heavie a charge 1
What could be my commodity in fo dilapidat and diffipat an eftate ?
Yet, as in this calling there is none of thofe to allure or tempt me, or
any man having fenfe, fo I protcft uprightly, it is neither the fear of dif-
grace, or uneafe or difcommodity, that maketh me decline the charge.
I lay no count for any eafe in this life, but the eafe of a good conference.
I never preached the Gofpel for worldly gaine, nor to this hour hath
made any gaine of that fort, whereby my reward is before me, and I
hope my Lord fhall hold my heart Hill fixed on him. And as for mif-
conftruclions I might incurre with men (if there were no other thing to
divert my minde), I would hope by the grace of him, who is belt
acquainted with my inwards, fo to carrie my felf, as in fliort time not
only to rub away any conceived prejudice againft my perfon, but even
to make the moft averfe to think perhaps more equitablie of the calling
alio. For howfoever I neither dare nor will condemne the judgement
or dealing of thofe men, who at the firft, while the matter was in delibe-
ration, did modeftly oppofe to the erecting of Bifhops in our Church,
the experience of tyrannical ufurpation giving in former times no fmall
reafon to refufe the like evil hereafter. Yet now they being eftablifhed,
and fet at the rudder of our Church, I am fo far from the judgement of
them, who would have no godly nor Angularly gifted men to accept of
them, that I think it fo far from a well informed zeal, as it is rather in
my judgment a fort of tranfportation with the love of their own opinion ;
that rather than any other thing difagreeable to their opinion, fhould
obtain place in the Church, or be graced by any man's well doing, they
will put us rather in perill to have no Church at all, by leaving thefe
rooms expofed only to belligods, hirelings, and fycophants, to the un-
doubted hazard of their own perfonal mifcarriage ; as alfo of filling all
the places of the Church with the oft-fcourings of the world, and the
dregs of men. Neither can I deny, but that (as your Lordfhip wrote to
548 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1618.
me) I have any other affair, and warrantable calling, fo as if no other
tiling did flay my refolution, I could hardly in conl'cience make excep-
tions againfl it. This is that, my good Lord, which makcth all my
fcruple, tin- prefent condition and courfe of things (and we cannot tell
liuu far a farther novation in our Church is intended) fo peremptorily anil
impetuouflv urged on the one part, and fo hardly received on the other,
as betwixt fchefe extremities, and the undertaking of a Bifhoprick, I fee
no option left to me, but either to incurre his Majefties difpleafure, which
is the rock under Chrift I am loatheft to ftrike on; or then to drive
lwth myfelf and my miniftery in fuch common diftaft, as I fee not how
henceforth it can be any more fruitful. I difpute not here of the points
themfelves ; but I am perfwaded, if fo wife, fo learned, and fo religious a
King, as God hath bleffed us with, were fully and freely informed, or did
throughly conceive the fad fequel of inforcing our Church, that neither
in the points alreadic proponed, nor in any way which we fear yet to
enfue, for this intended conformitie, would his Majeftio efteem any of fuch
fruit or effect, as therefore the llate of a quiet Kirk ihould be marred, the
mindes of Brethren, who for any bygone diffraction were beginning again
to warme in mutual love, Ihould be of a new again, and almoft defper-
ately diffracted, the hearts of many good Christians difcouraged, the
refolution of many weak ones brangled [Shaken], matter of infulting
miniftered to Romanifts, and to profane epicureans, of a difdainful
deriding of our whole profcffion. Your Lordfhip remembers the other
year, when my Lord of Glafgow and Rofs refrefhed our mindes witli a
very grateful relation of his Majefties royal care and zeal towards our
Church. One fpeech Specially cheared our hearts, wherein his Majeftie
had exhorted us to mutual concord among ourfelves, and that he fhould
never urge anything upon us, that might difturb our quiet; whereupon
we were all joyfully erected to the certain hope of a folid peace. Might
it pleafe God to holde his Majefties minde on this refolution, I thinke
then in that calling men might do God and his Majeftie good fervice ;
and be anfwerable for a peaceable and well governed Church, for pre-
fervation of unitie in found doctrine and holy worfhip, and for as obfe-
<luious and loving (though poor) fubjects, as any King of the world
might glorie of. If wherein our Kirk feemeth defective, his Majeftie
1618.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 549
would fo far pitie our weaknefs, and tender our peace, as to enforce
nothing but which firft in a free and Nationall Councel were determined ;
wherein his Highnefs would neither make any man afraid with terrour,
nor pervert the judgment of any with hope of favour, then men may
adventure to do fervice. But if things be fo violently carried, as no end
may appear of bitter contention, neither any place left to men, placed
in rooms ; but infteed of procuring peace, and reuniting the hearts of
the brethren, to ftirre the coales of deteftable debate ; for me I have no
courage to be a partner in that work. I wifh my heart blood might
extinguifh the ungracious rifing namme in our Kirk. But if I can do
nothing for the quenching of it, then I would be heartilie forrie, to add
fewell thereto. And this it is (my very good Lord) which only terrifieth
me from undertaking that, which otherwife for the zeal of God's house,
with all hazard, and with all my heart, I would embrace. So as your
Lordfhip fhall very much oblige me unto you, if with his Majefties
favour, and your Lordihip's good contentment, I may be permitted to
retain a privat Miniftery, carrying with it no more difficultie, but to
anfwer well for my own perfonal carriage, and not to undergo the necef-
fitie of not only being myfelf an aclor, but either an urger and adactor
alfo of my Brethren to the thinges which fhall be againft their minde,
and perhaps againft my own light alfo, or then to incurre dangerous
indignation. And in any cafe your Lordfhip well knows, Turpius ejici-
tur quam non admittitur hospes. I may perhaps appear to your Lordfhip
to builde up to myfelfe idle and unneceffarie fears. But I have in all
finglenefs laid before your Lordfhip my whole minde, which I remit to
your Lordihip's wife confideration. Befeeching Cod fo to direct this
whole matter as he may have glorie, his Kirk may have good, and I may
enjoy the peace of a good confcience. And tbus commending your
Lordfhip heartily to the gracious direction, and effectual bleffing of our
Lord, I reft.
Keith, 16 Februar 1618.
550 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1018.
CCCXXXVII.— THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO MR THOMAS
MITCHELL.
Brother,
I baue receaved your letter, and am glad you choofed rather to
lend a bearer than come your felfe at this tyme. My earand was chief-
lie to fignifie vnto you, that wee haue obtayned his Majefties content
for placing the Laird of Corfe at Aberdene, which you and I much
defired in the laft vacancie. And I truft in God nothing fhall proue
more profitable to his Church, and a better man to beare downe the
enemies of all within thofe partes than this. I looke daylie for his
Majefties Warrand to the Chapter to conveane and proceede in that
« Krtion ; and how foone it commeth, will fende to you the particular
inftruclions anent the proceeding, praying you to advertife me whither
to fende my letters, as foone as you can. And fo, to the next occafion,
I reft
Your loving Brother,
Saynct- Andrews.
Edinburgh, 10 February 1G18.
To my vcrie loving Brother, Mafter Tho-
mas Michcll, Minifter of God's word.
CCCXXX VIII.— THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO THE LAIRD
OF CORSE.
Sir,
As 1 was doling the former letter, a pacquet came to inee from
Court, containing a licence to the Deane and Chapter of Aberdene. to
meete and elect a worthie perfon to that place, which now vaketh, with
a private recommendation of his Majeftie for your felfe. Of this I
thought meete to giuc you fignifuation ; becaufe howe foone the licence
1018.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 551
can paffe the Seale I will fend it, with inch directions as ar fit for the
orderlie proceeding of matters : Neyther will I infift with you not to
declyne the place, vpon the fcruples mentioned in your letter, feeing
wee haue given you fufficient fatiffaction thereanent, and that nowe,
thankes to God, wee are in the expectation of a good peace : Rather I
will befeech you confider what the ftate of this tyme, and the Church
of God in it, craveth at your handes. I fhall not mention the publicke
enemie, or yet your politickes, who, I am perfwaded, did never heare of
anie thing more to their difcontentment than your nomination for this
place. Onlie be pleafed to looke vnto our felues, and you fhall fee there
was never more neede to keepe a Church from diforder. As yee wryte
of your felfe, God is my witneffe, I could wifh to bee vnknowne in the
world, and ferue God in the obfcureft place, rather than where by His
providence I am caften. But wee are not at our owne choyfe, and fo
muft you thinke. Where God calleth, to runne away, it is not modeftie,
but rebellion and diibbedience. God giue us, in this fhort tyme, to bee
wyfe and faythfull, and to defpyfe all thinges in reipedl of the reward
propofed, on which, if wee hold our eyes, wee fhall never bee difcow-
raged by the malice of the wicked. I take my leaue, and reft
Your affured Brother,
Sainctandrewes.
Edinburgh, 10 February 1018.
To my verie loving Brother,
The Laird of Corfe.
CCCXXXIX— PATRICK FORBES OF CORSE TO MR THOMAS MITCHELL,
MINISTER OF UDXEY.
Right worshipfull and deare Brother,
After heartie falutation, the letters which, together with yours,
are come to mee from the South, leade mee to thinke that you haue
552 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1618.
gueffed rightlie at the purpofe of the Archbifhop's entreatie: For even
this fame night I haue receaved a letter from all the Bifhops in Edin-
burgh, together with his Majeftie's letters to them, and to the Lordes
of his HighnefTe Secret Counfell, vcrie playnlie and peremptorilie
appoynting me for your Bifhopricke. Nowe his Majeftie's letter is both
fo free and percmptorie, as truelie it hath caften mee into great anxietie
of invade, fo as I ftand much in need of your counfel and prayers to
God for direction. I haue fcnt you herewith the copy of his Majeftie's
letter, that you may fo much the better confider what difficultie of refo-
lution I am put vnto. The Lord bee my counfellour. Thus, referring
the iflue of all to God, and commending you heartilie to His grace, I
iv I i ever
Your aflured loving Brother,
P. Forbes of Corse.
Keith, 13 [18th?] February 1618.
To the right worfhipfull, my deare Bro-
ther in Chrift, Mailer Thomas Mitchell,
Minifter of the Gofpell at Vdney.
CCCXL— PATRICK FORBES OF CORSE TO MR THOMAS MITCHELL.
Right worshipfull and deare Brother,
Alter all heartlie falutation, I receaved your letter this Thurs-
day after noone, the xij of March. After the recept of the letters,
whereof I fent you a copie, I wrote backe a long letter to the Bifhops,
whereby to excufe my felfe, and to lay oft' the burthen they had moved
his Majeftie to lay vpon me. But, agaynft my expectation, I haue
reported nothing but a more vehement infilling, and that with certifica-
tion, that by declyning the calling, 1 will incurre his Majeftie's bitter
indignation, and the imputation of contemning God's vocation, and the
1618.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 553
voyce of His Church alfo. My Lord of Sayncl Andrewes wrote to mee
alfo, that a warrand was come to him, to be figned, and fent to the
Chapter of Aberdene, for proceeding to the election, and that hee
would fende it North with diligence. So as I am caften in fuch agonie,
as I can doe nothing but attende the iffue of God's working. I would
with all my heart haue fled that charge in this fo dangerous a tyme,
and dangerous courfe in tyme. But they haue put mee to too great a
itrayt, eyther to accept, or to incurre the King's indignation, which to
a fubje<5t is the meffenger of death. The Lord fende all to a good ende.
The grace of God bee with you.
Your affured loving Brother,
P. Forbes of Corse.
Keith, 12 March 1618.
To my worfhipfull and deare Brother,
Mafter Thomas Mitchell, Minifter of
the Gofpell at Vdney.
CCCXLL— THE DEAN AND MINISTERS OF THE DIOCESE OF ABERDEEN
TO THE LAIRD OF CORSE.
Right Honourable and Reverende,
Our loue and duetie in our common Saviour remembered, pleafe,
at the laft Generall Affembly holden in Aberdene, the greateft part
both of Preachers and Profeffours of all degrees, cryed, by a Supplica-
tion fubfcrybed by them, to that Affemblie, and by them to his Majef-
tie, to fill our Bifhopricke then vacant,1 with your felfe, as fitteft of all
men for that feat. His Majeftie finding nowe that feat vacant agayne,
1 Upon the death of Bishop Peter Blackburn, in June 1616, Alexander Forbes,
Bishop of Cathnes, was translated to the See of Aberdeen, but he died in December
1617.
4 A
554 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1618.
hath Dominate you vnto that rowme. The Chapter beeing conveaned
this day, vjiuii a warrand directed from his Majeftie, and with them
Brethren of the Minifterie, Commiffioners from all Prefbyteries within
the Dioceffe, haue all in one joy full voyce made choyfe of you, and
baue fent vnto you fome of their number, to acquaint you with their
election, and to require you, in the name of God, not to flee this His
calling I iv their voyces, in a tyme of fuch evident neceffitie: to whole
credit remitting, wee commende you for now, and ever, to the grace
of God.
By your loving Brethren, and Fellow-labourers in
the Gofpell, the Miniflers members of the Chap-
ter of the Cathedrall Church of Aberdene, and
the Miniflers Commiflioners from Prefbyteries;
Matter David Reit, Deane, and Moderator, in the
oame of the whole Meeting.
Olde Aberdene, the 24 of March 1618.
To the right reverend and honourable, their
loving Brother and fellow-labourer in the
Gofpell, the Laird of Corfe.
CCCXLII. -THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO KING JAMES.
Mi )ST SACRED AND GBACIOUSE SoUERAIGNE,
Pleafe your Maieftie, I haif caufed the electioun of the Bifchop
of Abirden to he ordourly done, according to the form lent vnto me be
the Dean of Winchefter, in every point. The Certificatioun of thair
procedingis is now to be prefentit to your Maieftie vnder the fubferip-
tioun of the Cheptour and thair common leal,1 vpon the fight quhairof
1 In the well known volume originally printed at Aberdeen, in 1635, and republished,
it L845, by tin- S|M>tti>\v le Society (accompanied «ith much curious literary illustra-
1618.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 555
I muft humbly intreat your Maieflie's royal affent to the perfon elefitit
with ane warrant for his Confecratioun, bothe quhich I haif made heir to
be formed, and fent heirwith. I am in good hope that he fal prove
worthie of your Maieflie's favoure, and that his fervice falbe profitable
to this Churche. Muche I heare of fum Puritanes bulines, dillwading
his acceptatioun ; but the particularis wilbe better vnderftood after-
wardis.
We ar heir to communicat on Eafter day, qhair, God willing, I fal
haif every thing in that maner performed that your Maieftie defyris.
Al of our number ar advertifed to doe the like in thair places, and the
moll I know wil obferve the famin. Our adverfaries wil cal this ane
tranfgrefiioun of the refavit cuftom ; but I doe not fee, as yit, that any
thing wil effect thair obedience, fafe your Maieflies authoritie. We haif
our Synodes this nexte monethe, in qhich nothing falbe omitted that
may mak them wyfe. Killing mofl humbly your Maieflies handis, I
tak my leave.
Your Maieflies mofl humble and obedient ferviteur,
St Andrews, 29 Merche 1618. Sanctandkewl-.
CCCXLUI THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDUEWS TO MR THOMAS
MITCHELL.1
Loving Brother,
I receaved this Sonday only the 26 of April, the pacquet, with
his Majeflie's royall affent to the election of Aberdene, and a mandate
tion, by the Editor, Charles F. Shand, Esq.), under the title of " The Funerals of Patrick
Forbes of Corse, Bishop of Aberdeen," there is given, along with the preceding letter,
the "Certification" here alluded to, dated 24th March 1G18, and also the " Procura-
torium ad exhibendam Certificatiouem de Electione Episcopi," signed by the Clergy of
the Diocese. These are followed by a copy of the " Diploma Regium, de provisione
Patricii Forbesii, Episcopi Aberdonensis." It is dated at Whytehall, 8th April 1618.
1 In Bishop Forbes's Funerals, there is also printed a copy of the " Instrument anent
Patrik Bishop of Aberdene his Admission to the said Bishopricke," upon the 18th May
1618.
550 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1618.
for Confccration. The one mull paffe the Great Seale, and the other
the Privie Scale, for which there is tyme fufficient, as I haue written to
the Laird himfelfe. 1 haue thought the feventeenth of May the fitteft
tyme, and haue given advertisement to the Bifhops to meete at the day.
I will haue the Laird to dyne with me on the day of Confccration, as 1
tolde you. You will haue care that hee hee accompanied with fome
graue Minifters, befides his owne friendes, which I knowe will attende
him. No other thing commeth to my mynde to advertife, but that his
Majeltie is exceeding well pleafed with your procedure in Aberdene at
the election ; and expe&cth good fervice both to God and himfelfe,
whereof 1 am periwaded. You will fee that one be difpatched to Edin-
burgh for palling thefe thorowe the Seales, and that they may meete
you at your comming hither. What you would haue done or provyded
on my part, I pray you advertife mee : And nowe commending you to
God/l refl
Your allured Brother,
Saynctandrewes.
Saindl-Andrewes, 16 [26th] April 1018.
To my verie loving Brother, Mailer Tho-
mas Mitchell, Minifter of God's word.
CCCXLTV — SIB JAMES LVNDIE OF LUNDIE TO KING JAMES.
Most Gracious Soverane,
It may pleas your moft excellent Maieilie, vmquhile King Wil-
liame, of worthie memoric, for the lufe wiche he caryit towardis his
fone naturall, my prediccHbur, callit Sir Robert, thairefter callit Sir
Robert of Lundy be King Alexander the Second, gaue all and haill the
barony of Lundy, of whoine the Lairdis of Lundy lies linialie difcendit,
as dure cliarteris and evidentis dois record; and evir fince the davis of
1618.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 557
King Williame, be the fpace of foure hundreth fyftie and fyve yeiris,
we haue bene in peciable poffeffioun of our awin teindis, quhill now
laitlie, that the Laird of Largo ' lies procurit the kirk of Largo, ereclit in
ane laick patronage, quha intendis moft rigorouflie to leid our teindis :
albeit that I haue caufit deall with him thir fevin yeiris bigane for ane
new tak of oure awin teindis, quhairunto he will nawayis condifcend be
ony perfuafioun or reafonable offer ; bot lies intentit aclioun aganis ws for
fpoliatioun thairof, whairintill be the rigour of law he is liklie to prevale.
The haill Senatouris of your Maiefties Colledge of Juftice thinkis it
aggreble with reafon and confcience that we fuld ftill eontinew in poffef-
fioun of our awin teindis, feing we ar fa lang kyndlie takifmen and pof-
feffouris thairof; and I am fullie refolvit that thair is no mean to hold
me in poffeffioun of the faidis teindis, but that it wald pleas your moft
excellent Maieftie to direct ane letter to the Lordis of your Hienes Col-
ledge of Juftice, to caus ws both fubmitt that mater to thame, anent
quhat takis the Laird of Largo fall giue of our awin teindis, and quhat
fall be gevin thairfoir. This I am moft willing to do. It is weill knowin
to your Maieftie quhat querrellis and deidlie feidis lies followit vpoun
rigourous teinding within your Hienes kingdome of Scotland, whiche hes
bene the mine of mony houfes thairof. Moft humlie thairfoir befeiking
your gracious Maieftie to prevent ws, be your Heines letter to the Lordis
of your Maiefties College of Juftice. Thus in all humilitie expecting your
Maiefties moft gracious will and interceffioun in this point, I moft humlie
tak my leve, kiffing, with all reverence and humilitie, your moft gracious
hand.
Your Maiefties moft bumle and obedient
fubiecl: and fervitour,
SK James Lundie.
Edinburgh, the 8 of Aprile 1618.
To his moft excellent Maieftie.
1 Andrew Wood of Largo.
ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1618.
CCCXLV.— THE BISHOP OF GALLOWAY TO KING JAMES.
Most Gratious and Sacred Soueraine,
As your Highnes commanded, fo have I done, on the Paffion and
Roi'umvtion daies, I miniflred the communion kneeling to my Lordis
Chancellor, Secretaries Regiftre, Advocat, and Treafurer Deput, and the
Laird of Riven. My Lord of Mar had communicat the day before. I
rei|uyred others, when the Lordis had rifen, and attended them at leafure,
hot no mo pracfented them felues to the table. Mony told me after.
that they wer mynded to communicat, but they flood everie one vpon the
coming of others. The fuddaintie of the command, which came bot two
daies before, maid me the lefle able to praepair others, having fo fhort a
tyme tor my oune ftudie. This may be mended at the Pentecoft, if it
fall pleafe your Maieftie to giue direction to my Lords to bring their
fcrvants to the table with them, and before hand giue me their names ;
for your Maiefties will (I hope) is not that fuch as juftlie ar rejected from
their owne kirkis fuld be received in your Royal Chappel. As lykewaics
that your Maieftie will pleafe command the Treafurer Deput to giue me
a roll of all that dwell within the precincts of the Palace, that I mav
both pra?parc them and requyre them. They ar a great nomber, and
will not do that mekle as prsefent them felues to the Chappel, yet is the
houfe tilled alwaie with others.
As to the houfe, your Maieftie is informed, the Commiflioners of your
Highnes affaires lies appointed for me, I took my Lord Secretare to fie it ;
the beft of them is not the lenth of a fpcare, and four of them fcarfe able
to conteine one bed. I hope my lord Secretaire will fhew your Maieftie
the truth. I have committed no fault that I fuld be lhutt vp in a pri-
I'un, there being larger rowmes anew poffeft by others. Bot that your
Maieftie In' not fafhed with fuch triftles, if it may be your Highnes plea-
iure t<> command the Treafurer to difcharge me one termes taxation I
am bound to pay for Galloway, and that for this half yearc onlie, !
fhall fo long as 1 line furnifh a houfe to my felf : and yet more nor this
iven everie yeare in penfion to I'ome preachors. In good faith, Sir,
1618.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 559
I fpended that fumme In attending your Maieftie at your incomming :
my felf and ane other lived at the King's tahle : hot my retinue vpon
my charges, man and horfe, fix dailie in number.
Concerning Kneeling at the Communion, which for my felf I think
both lawfull and expedient, I haue feene the belt of England contrair
mynded, their arguments againft it ; as alfo D. Sutleiff and Jofeph Hall
for it. If with your Maieflies favour and reuerence of thefe men I
might fpeake it, it is evil! impugned by the one, and not well defended
by the other. Bot of this I will wryt no thing, except I know I might
doe it without your Maieflies offence. So craving your Maieflies par-
don for my longfumnes or ony other overfight, I reft
Tour Maieflies humble feruant and dailie orator,
TV". B. of Galloway.
To his Maieftie.
CCCXLVI SIE GIDEON MTJERAY OF ELIBANK TO KING JAMES.
Most Sacred Souerane,
By your Maiefteis letter of the 20th of Apryll, I am commandit
to aduerteis your Hienes to what foume, a half yeares Taxatione, which
the Bifchoppe of Galoway is to pay for Galoway, doeth amount, and for
what cans he payes the fame. As I tak it, his defyr is to haue a dif-
chardge of his part of the fecond terme of the lait Taxatione granted
touartis the exfpenfes of your Maieflies jornay in this Kingdome, for the
Prelaceis poffeffit be him, which ar the Bifchoprik of Galoway, the Priorie
of Whitherne, the Abaceis of Tungland and Glenluce, the taxt of the
laid benefies, for the terme afoirfaid, extending to two thowfand poundis,
or thairby.
Becaus the lyke fuit heathe neuer bein maid by anie wther for a dif-
chardge of any part of your Maiefteis preceiding taxationes, I humblie
offer to your Hienes princelie and wyfe confideratione thefe Reafones
560 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1618,
whairfoir the defyr may lawfullie be denyed. All the Prelatis and bene-
ficed perfones within this Kingdoinc lies rclciff of thair fewaris and takif-
nien, and thay niak thair taxt rolles no leffe nor thay pay thaine felfis.
The equal! half of the whole taxationc is impofed upon the Prelaceis and
inferiour benefices. As for the inferiour benefices, thair ar inanie of
thame exemed by warrantis frome the Bifchoppis in fauoris of the
Minifteris; and geue thair falbe way gevin to exemptiones of Prelaceis
or difchardges of thair taxationes (feing thair ar manie that haue als
nmche neid as the Bifchoppe of Galoway), your Maieftie wilbe impor-
tuned with inoir of thame. He lies furth of thefe foure Prelaceis a com-
petent rent to maintein his rank and dignetie, equall, as I am informed,
to any wther Prelat within this Kingdome, and lies lifted gud fynnes of
his feweris and takismen, fo as he hes no great neid of it. And your
Maieftie wes plcafed to forbeare the granting of any part of the former
taxationc, ather by precept or difchardge, fwa as the whole wes em-
ployed towartis the reparatione of your Hienes Caftellis and Palices,
except fo muche of it as wes gevin to Sir Jhone Arnott as a part of the
pryce of Orknaye; and geue it had not bein fo, thay culd not haue bein
gottin maid ready for your Maiefteis reffait when your Hienes wes heir.
This taxationc is granted for a neceffarie vfe, and I houpe falbe found
botlie exactlie takin vp and well employed. I will not importune your
Maieftie with a moir tedious and longer difcours, bot humblie begge
pardone for the rafche offer of my waike opinione, and end with my
humble and lenient prayeris for your Hienes long preferuatione in all
healthe and happienes.
Your Sacred Maiefteis moft humble
and obedient feruand,
G. Murray.
Edinburgh, the 2 of Mai] 1618.
Your Maieftie wilbe plcafed to ryue this letter.
To tin- Kinjria moll excellent Maieftie.
1618.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 561
CCCXLVIL— CHARGE AGAINST THE COMMISSIONERS APPOINTED FOR
PLANTING OE KIRKS.
Apud Edinburgh xiij die mensis Maij 1618.
Sederunt.
Chancellair. Lord Erskine. Kilsyth.
Thesaurair. Lord Flemyng. Bruntilaxd.
Wyntoun. Mr [of] Elphinstoun. Rediiouse.
Lynlithqw. Predey Seall. Sir George Erskine.
Lacderdaill. Thesaurer Depute. Mr Peter Rollok.
Binning. Advocat. Conservatour.
Forsamekle as the firft day of Junij, now approaching, is ap-
pointed for the nixt fitting and meiting of the Commiflionaris who arc
norainat he the Parliament for plantatioun of Kirkis, quhilk being a
mater moft acceptable unto God, and requireing a quick and redely dil-
patche and executione, feeing the Minifteris and otheris whome it con-
cernis may not attend and await ony long tyme thairvpoun without thair
grite hurte and inconvenient, and difapointing of the flockis and con-
gregatiounis quhairof the Minifteris lies the chairge of the conforte of
the Worde and benefite of the Kirk : And whereas the faidis Commif-
fionairis did verie folemnlie promeis and fweir, in prefence of his Maieftie
and his Eftaitis, that thay fould preceiflie keepe all the dyettis, tymes,
and meetingis for that eirand without weyreing : Thairfore the Lordis
of Secrite Counfaill ordanis letters to be direct to command and chairge
the haill Commiffionairis for the Clergye, Nobilitie, Baronis, and Bur-
rowis nominat and appointit be the Parliament to attend the godlie and
worthie worke foirfaid. That they, and every ane of thame all, excuiffes
fett afyde, addreffe thame felffis, in dew and lauclifull tyme to the faid
burgh of Edinburgh, agane the faid firft day of Junij nixt to come, and
attend and await upon the executioun of the faid Commiffioun, and for
bringing of the fame to ane end and happy conclufione, vnder the pane
of rebellione, &c, with certificatione to thame and thay tailzie, that not
4 B
562 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1618.
onlic fall letters be dircctit to denounce thame rebellis, and put thanie
to the home, hot with all that they falbe vtherwyfe punift in thalr per-
fonis as contempning of his Maiefties authoritie and difa]>ointaris and
hinderaris of the dew executione of the chairge eommittit to thame.
CCCXLVI1L— THE BISHOP OF GALLOWAY TO KING JAMES.
Most Gratious and Sacred Soueraine,
Pleafe your Maieftie : According to your Highnes direction, I
preached in the Chappcl on the Afcenfion day. I requyred the Lordis,
and thev wer prsefent. The Sabboth following we keped as the Pente-
coft. The fubiect of the fermone wes of the fending of the Holie Ghoft.
1 gaue the communion to my Lordis Chancellor, Pnehdent, Advocat,
and Treafurer Depute : No mo wer in the towne. Sundrie of my Lord
Praefident and Treafurer Deput their followers did communicat, and
about fourtie of the high towne, all kneeling.1 This is meklc, as your
Maieftie knowes, to get at the firft among fuch a people. A litle tyme
and experience will make the rnoft ftubburne more tractable. Great
concurfe of people wes to behold, who lyked the ordour verie well.
Alwaie not one within the pnecincls of the Palace lies communicat, neither
did I receiue any roll of them ; bot this your Maieftie can beft mend.
The Treafurer Depute lies willinglie promifed to anfwer me of that I
futcd for my houfe maile, if it be your Highnefs good will to give conni-
vence. It is leffe be ane hundreth poundis of our money nor that three
thoufand merks, which at your Highnes eommandement 1 gaue to John
Gib for the dimiffion of his right. I think no thanie to meane my felf
to my Maiftcr. It is hard for me to giue of my oune poore portion for
rellitution of the Chappcl and to feme in it without houfe maile or fti-
1 " Upon Whitsunday, the 24th of ISIaij, the Bishope of Galloway ministered (he Com-
munion in the Chapped Royal to the (hancellour, the President, the Treasurer-Depute,
the Advocate, and others the King's servants. The Bishope forbade the people to seam-
from communicating tor the offering that they were to give, seeing those that offered
little were notwithstanding accepted." (Calderwood's History, vol. vii. p. 298.)
1618.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 563
pend ; for in truth I am forced to giue all to the Proebendaries. I remitt
this to your Highnes gratious pleafure, and yet expecls of your princelie
equitie a favourable anfwer.
Your Highnes humble feruant and dailie Oratour,
W. B. of Galloway.
To his Maieitie.
CCCXLIX.— THE ARCHBISHOPS OF ST ANDREWS AND GLASGOW, AND
BISHOP OF GALLOWAY, TO KING JAMES.
Most sacred and most gratiouse Souueraigne,
We ar humbly to intreat your Maiefties favour for ane patent to
Mr Alexander Yule, fumtymis Mailer of the Grammer Schoole of Stir-
linge, anent the imprinting of ane Explanatioun of Buchanan's Pfalmis,1
in qhiche he lies taken great panis, and is eilemit by learned men heir
to be wel and profitably done. The Lord Deputie of Irland, as he
enformis ws, cravis the employment of his travellis amongeil them,
qhiche he myndis to bellow vpon the finifching of this worke, qhiche
he thinkis to propone and read vnto the yowtbe thair. And we ar
perfwaded his fervice in that kinde falbe to the Churche of God very
profitable, and helpe muche to the reformatioun of that Kingdom, and
the educatioun of thair yowthe, bothe in religioun and ciuilitie. Qhair-
vpon we haif taken the boldnes to befeeche your Maiefties grant of
1 The work alluded to was not published till 1G20 : — " Ecphrasis Paraphraseos Georgii
Buclianani in Psalnios Davidis : ab Alexandre Julio Edinburgeno, in Adolescentia? stu-
diosre gratiam elaborata. Londini, excusum apud Georgium Eld, m.dc.xx." 8vo. In the
dedication to Sir Oliver St John, Lord Deputy for Ireland, Yule states that he had been
employed as Master of the Grammar School in Stirling for nearly thirty-three years,
when he resigned, after which he spent a few months in Dublin. It contains commen-
datory verses by Henry Charteris, Patrik Sands, and John Adamson, each of them in
succession Principal of the College of Edinburgh ; and also by John Ray, Rector of the
High School, Edinburgh.
564 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1618.
printing the (aid book to him felf for the fpace of 21 yeiris, and that
none be permitted within your Maiefties dominionis to imprint the fara,
or to bring in the i'amin, being printed elfeqhair, to be fold in thir
partis vnder the pain of confifcatioun, according as your Maiefties privi-
ledge is wonte to be graunted in fuehe caces. And thus humbly craving
pardon for importuning your Maieftie in his behalf, we befeeche
Almvghtie God to bliffe your Hienes with continual and evcrlafting
bliffingis.
Your Maiefties moft humble and obedient fervantis,
Sanctandrews.
Ja. Glasgow.
AY. B. of Galloway.
Edinburgh, 1G. Junij 1G18.
To liis Maieftie.
CCCL — HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES [TO THE ARCHBISHOP OF
ST ANDREWS .']
[The following missive, not having the royal signature, date, or address, was probably
the scroll, or a copy of the original, retained by John Murray. The unfortunate
person to whom it relates was the third son of John Ross of Craigie, in Perthshire.
He was educated at St Andrews, and became Minister of Cargill. A work in praise
n|' the King, his Children, and the chief Nobility, entitled, " Idea, sive de Jacobi M.
Brit. Regis Virtutibus et Ornament is dilueida Enarratio : Authore Thoma Rosa;'
printed at London, 1608, 12mo, may safely be ascribed to him ; but it seems to have
failed in its object, and was well styled, "a fulsome piece of flattery." His name occurs
as Minister of Cargill, in the years L608 and 1614. In the following year he had
cither resigned or been deposed from his charge. Having obtained a letter from
the Archbishop, and others, in hi^ favour to the King, he was led to expect some
advancement at Court ; but the reception he met with, as referred to in this letter, and
the reduced state of his finances, induced him to take a most unusual mode to obtain
" pitie for his distress and miserie." Having written a most scurrilous invective
1618.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 565
against his countrymen at Court, he affixed it as a Thesis on the door of St Mary's
Church, Oxford. It was immediately taken down, and carried to the Vice-Chancel-
lor, who sent it to the King : the result was, that Ross being apprehended, was sent
to Edinburgh, by the King's instructions, to be brought to trial.
On the 30th of July 1G18, the Lords of Privy Council wrote to King James :
" We haue ressaued your Majesties letter, with the infamous libell written by that
wretched and unhappie fellow Rosse ; " who had not yet come to Edinburgh, but
that the Magistrates had been commanded " to commit him eloise prissonair in thair
irne-house, and to lay him in the irnis." On the 22d of August, Lord Binning
informed the King that " ' the furious wretche Maister Thomas Ros,' was, according
to your Maiesties commandment, put to his tryall and convicted of the heynous
crymes conteaned in his diuelishe Pasquil, produced for verificatioun of his guiltiness
to the Assyse. The dome is delayed till your Maiestie be pleased to signifie your
Royall determination in it. His malitious frenesie is so mixed with presumption of his
own wourth, as he thinkis the vse of his learning and eloquence necessar to the world,
&c." Both letters are printed in " The Melros Papers," vol. i. p. 314-316. They
are also given, along with miscellaneous notices and an account of the proceedings
against Ross in the Court of Justiciary, in Pitcairn's Criminal Trials, vol. iii. p. 445-
454. In the Appendix to the same work, vol. iii. p. 582, &c, will be found a trans-
lation of the very extraordinary document itself, which occasioned the ignominious
death of Ross ; who was publicly executed at the Cross of Edinburgh on the 11th
September 1618. (Calderwood's History, vol. vii. p. 336.)]
Righte Reuerende Father in God, Righte truilie and welbeloued
Counfellour, Wee greete yow well. Wee receaued, certeyne moneths
ago, a letter fubfcribed by your felfe, and fome others of the Bifhoppes,
whereby yee recommended to Vs a fweete guefte, one Mr Thomas Roffe,
whome long time before Wee knew perfecHie to be a malicious vncoun-
felable foole. At the receipt of your letter, Wee were greeved that yee
Ihould haue recommended vnto Vs anie fuch perfon, and fpeciallie one
whome in effecle ye had expelled out of your Church, as if the refufe
and ofcafte of your people tbere were fufficientlie worthie to be receaued
and employed by Vs here. And now the effectes haue fhowen what
iufte reafon yee haue to glorie in your choife, and reioyfe in graunting
of your recommendation for it, hauing putte him in an ouerweening
conceipte of his owne worthe for employment or preferment, fo as he
expected greate maters, and thereafter he (hauing fallen frome thofe
foolifh greate hopes) hath entered into this malicious and defperate
cours of imaginarie reuenge. Wee wille therefor aduife yow hereafter
566 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1618.
to be more circnmfpecte, both what perfons yee recomniende to Vs,
and for what reafons, which hoping yee will do, Wee bid yow fare-
well.
CCCLL— HIS MAJESTIES MISSIVE TO THE PRIYY COUNCIL.
Apml Edinburgh penvltkno die mensis Julij 1618.
The mdiilk day. the Lordis of Secrite Counfaill, according to ane
warrand and direction [in wreit] figned by the Kingis Maieftie, and
prefentit this day vnto thame, reffauit and admittit [Patrick] Biichop of
Abirdene to be ane of the ordinair number of the Privey Counfaill of this
Kingdom, and to [enjoy] the honnouris, digniteis, and priniledgeis pro-
pir and dew to the faid place. Lykeas the laid Biichop being perfonalie
prefent, and acknowledgeing with moift humble thankis his Maieilies
gracious fauour fchawin vnto him, by preferring and advanceing of him
to this heich place of honnour and dignitie, he with all dew reverence
vpoun his kneis, his hand lyand vpoun the holie Evangill, maid and
gaif his folemnc aith of alledgeance and the oath of a Prevey Coun-
felloure.
The Kingis Majesteis missive letter for tvarrand of the Act
above written.
Riciit truftie and richt weill bclouit Cofen and Confallonr, We grete
vim weele, Being fuirlie perfwadit of the fufficiencie, (jiialifieatioun, and
difpofitioun to oure feruice of the Biichop of Abirdene, We are weele
pleafed to j)romove him to ane ordinarie place in our Preucy Counfaill of
that oure Kingdome, And thairfoir ye fall call him unto yow and caus the
Oath accuftomed in the Lyke CJaifes be niinii'torcd onto him, and admit
him to oure laid Couni'all to banc voice thairin, and to enioy all hon-
nouris. digniteis, priviledgeis, and immuniteis which am- vther oure
Preuey Counfaillouris enioyeth by reaibn of his place in oure faid Coun-
1618.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 567
faill, In which behalf as this prefent fall be vnto you a fufficient war-
rand, So we bid you fareweele.
Gevin at Totenham the xxvijth of Julij 1618.
CCCLIL— HIS MAJESTIES MISSIVE TO THE PRIVY COUNCIL.
Apud Edinburgh, eodem die.
Forsamekle as the Kingis Maicftie, vponn diuerfs guid refpe&is
and confiderationis, tending to the glorie of God, and eftablifcheing of
peace, concorde, and vnitie in the Kirk, hes thocht meete and expe-
dient, commandit, and ordanit that thair falbe ane Nationall Aflemblie
keipit and haldin at the Burgh of Perth, and fall begin, Godwilling,
vpoun the xxv day of Auguft now approtcheing, Thairfoir the Lords of
Secrite Counfaill ordanis letters to be direct chairgeing Officiaris of
Airraes to pas to the Mercat Croce of Edinburgh, and otheris placeis
neidfull, and thair be oppin proclamatioun to mak publicatioun of the
premiffes, and to wairne all and findrie Archibifchopis, Bifchoppis, Com-
miffionairis, and all vtheris haueing place and voit in the laid Affemblie,
that thay addreffe thame felffis to the Burgh of Perth the day foirfaid,
and thair attend and await vpoun the faid Affemblie, as thay will anfuer
vpoun the contrarie at thair perrell.
Followis his Maiesteis missiiie letter for the war rand of the
Act aboue written.
Right truftie and richt weilbelouit Cofen and Counfallour, and richt
truftie and weilbelouit Counfallouris, We grite yow weill. Wheras, for
ellablifcheing of peace and concord in the Churche of that Our King-
dome, We haue thocht it expedient to appointe ane Nationall Aflemblie
to be keipit at Perth the xxv day of Auguft nixt, We haue thocht good
by thefe prefentis to will and require yow to caufe the lame be publifched
568 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1618.
and intimated to all Oure fubiectis by proelamatioun, according to the
ordour accufhimed in the lykc cafes : And becaus it is requifite that
fome foulde by commiffioun reprefent Oure Sacred perfone in the laid
Affemblie, We haue maid choil'e of yow the Lord of Scone, of vow Oure
Secretarie, and of yow the Lord Carnegie, coniunctlie to fupplie that
place : And to the intent that materis may the foonner and better to
Oure contentment be performed, We haue lykewyfe maid choife of yow
Sir Richard Cockburne, Our Privey Seale ; Sir James Levingftonne of
K ill'vth ; Sir George Hay, Clerk of Oure Regifler ; Sir William Oliphant,
Oure Aduocat ; and Sir Gedeone Murray, Oure Deputie Thefaurer, to
be Afleffouris to Oure faid Commiffionaris. It is alio Oure forder plea-
foure that ye gif order to the Capitane of Oure guaird, with his
horfemen, to attend Oure faid Commiffionaris during all the tyme of
the faid Affemblie. And in all the premiffes rcquireing your (peciall
diligence, becaus the tyme is fo neare, We commend you all to Godis
keiping.
Gevin at Totenham. the xxvijth of Jvilij 1618.
( VCLIII.— HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE COMMISSIONERS OF
THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY AT PERTH.
James Rex,
Right reuerend Fathers in God, Right truftie Coufins, and
Counfcllors, and others Our truftie and welbeloued fubiecls, We greet
you well : Wee were once fully refolued, neuer in Our time, to haue
called any moe AfTemblies there, for ordering things concerning the
policie of the Church, by reafon of the difgrace offered vnto Us in that
late meeting at Sanel Andrewes, wherein Our juft and godly deiires
weri' not onely neglected, but fomc of the Articles concluded in that
fcornful] and ridiculous forme, as we wilh tliev had been refilled rather
with the refl : Although at this time We fuffered Ourfelfe to be untreated
by von Our Bifhops, for a nest Conuocation, and have called you to-
1618.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 569
gether, who are now conuened for the f'elfe fame bnfineffe which then
was vrged ; hoping afluredly, that you will haue fome better regard of
Our defires, and not permit the unruly and ignorant multitude, after
their wonted cuftom, to ouerfway the better and more judicious fort ;
an euill which We have gone about with much paines to haue amended
in thefe Affemblies, and for which purpofe, according to God's ordi-
nance, and the conftant practice of all well gouerned Churches in all
ages, Wee have placed you that are Bifhops and ouerfeers of the reft in
the chiefeft roomes. You plead much, Wee perceiue, to haue matters
done by confent of the Minifters, and tell Us often, that what concernes
the Church in generall fhould be concluded by the aduife of the whole,
neither doe Wee altogether diflike your purpofe : for the greater con-
fent there is amongft your felues, the greater is Our contentment. But
Wee will not have you to thinke, that matters proponed by Us of that
nature, whereof thefe Articles are, may not without fuch a generall con-
fent be enjoyned by Our authoritie : This were a mifknowing of your
places, and withall a difclayming of tbat innate power, which We haue
by Our calling from God, by the which Wee haue place to difpofe of
things externall in the Church, as AYee {hall thinke them to be eonue-
nient, and profitable for aduancing true Religion amongft Our fubiecls.
Therefore let it be your care by all manner of wife and difcreete perfwa-
fions to induce them to an obedient yeelding vnto thefe things, as in
dutie both to God, and Ys, they are bound : And doe not thinke, that
We will be fatiffied with refufes, or delayes, or mitigations ; and We
know not what other fhifts have beene proponed : for Wee will content
Ourfelues with nothing, but with a fimple and direct acceptation of
thefe Articles in the forme by Ys fent vnto you, now a long time paft ;
confidcring both the lawfulnefl'e, and vndeniable conueniencie of them
for the better furthering of pietie and religion amongft you. And it
mould have rather becommed you, to have begged the ettablifhment of
fuch things of Vs, then that Wee ftiould thus neede to be put to vrge
the praclife of them vpon you. Thefe matters indeede concerneth you
of the Ecclefiafticall charge chiefly. Neyther would Wee haue called
Noblemen, Barons, and others of Our good fubiecls, to the determining
of them, but that Wee vnderftand, the offence of Our people hath
4 c
.570 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1618.
bcene lb much obie&ed ; wherein you mttft beare with Ys to lay, That
no Kingdome doth breed, or hath at this time, more louing, dutiful],
and obedient fubiccts, than Wee haue in that Our native Kingdome of
Scotland ; and fo if any difpofition hath appeared to the contrarie, in
any of them, the fame We hold to have proceeded from amongft you :
Albeit of all forts of men, yec are they, that both of duetie were bound,
and by particular benefits obliged, to have continued yourfelues, and
by your found doclrine and exemplarie life, kept others in a reuerend
obedience to Our commandements. What, and how many abufes were
offered Vs by many of the Miniftrie there, before Our happie comming
to this Crowne, though We can hardly quite forget, yet We little like
to remember. Neither thinke We, that any Prince liuing could haue
kept him l'elfe from falling in vtter diflike with the profeffion it felfe,
confidering the many prouocations that were giuen vnto Vs ; but the
lone of God and his truth ftill vpheld Vs ; and will by His grace fo doe
vnto the end of Our life : Our patience alwayes in forgetting, and for-
giuing many faults of that fort, and conftant maintaining of true Reli-
gion againft the adverfaries (by whofe hateful praclifes We line in greater
perrill then you all, or any one of you), fhould haue produced better effects
amongft you, then continuall refiftancc of Our befl purpofes. Wee wifh
Wee be not further prouoked, and God's truth, which vou profeffe, of
obedience vnto Principalities and Powers, be no longer neglected, and
Qandered by fuch as, vnder the cloake of feeming holineffe, walk vnruly
amongft you, ihaking hands as it were, and ioyning in this their difobe-
dience vnto Maieftraeie, with the vpholders of Poperie. Wherefore,
( >ur heartie delire is, that at this time you make the World fee by
your proceedings, what a dutiefull refpect and obedience vou owe to
Vs, your Soucreigne Prince, and natural] King and Lord ; that as Wee
in louc and care are neuer wanting vnto you, fo you in an humble fub-
miffion vnto Our fo juit demands, be not found inferiour to others Our
Ihbiects in any of Our Kingdomes ; and that the care and zeale of the
good of God's Church, and of the advancing of Piety, and Truth, doth
chiefly incite Vs to the following of thefe matters ; God is Our Wit-
neffe : The which, that it may be before your eyes, and that according
to your callings you may hriue in your particular places, and in this
1618.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 571
Generall Meeting, to do thefe things -which may beft feme to the pro-
mouing of the Gofpel of Chrift, euen Our prayers are earneft vnto God
for you : Requiring you in this and other things to credit the bearer
hereof, Our truftie Seruant and Chaplaine, the Deane of Winchefter,
whom We have expreffly fent thither, that he may bring vnto Vs a
true relation of the particular carriages of all matters, and of the happie
euent of your Meeting, which by God's bleffing (who is the God of
Order, Peace, and Truth) Wee doe certainly expecl; ; vnto whofe graci-
ous direction Wee commend you now and for euer.
Given at Theobalds, the 10 July 1618.1
CCCLIV — THE BISHOP OF GALLOWAY TO JOHN MURRAY
OF LOCHMABEN.
Honorable Sir,
In your laft letter ye wrot to me that I fuld reffaue the anfwer
of my petition maid to his Maieftie with the next pakket. Mony ar
come fince, but I haue reffaued none. My fute is verie reafonable, that
fen the Treafurer will not pay my houfe-mail that I may attend the
fervice of the Chappel, his Maieftie wold be pleafed giue a warrand to
Sir Gedeon Murray to difcharge me one half yeares taxation of Gallo-
way, which wilbe ane hunder pound leffe nor three thoufand merkis,
which fumme, at his Maiefties command, I gaue to John Gib. Sir
Gedeon is content, if his Maieftie be pleafed to giue a warrand.2 I haue
1 This letter is preserved by Dr Lyndesay, Bishop of Brechin, in his " True Narration
of the Proceedings of the Assembly at Perth," p. 53. Lond. 1621, 4to. He dates it the
10th July, an obvious mistake, probably instead of August. On the 10th of July the
King was at Whitehall ; on the 11th he was at Wanstead, and at Theobalds from the
loth to the 19th of July. He returned to Whitehall on the following day, and after-
wards visited different parts of the country. — (King James's Progresses, vol. iii. p. 486.)
2 The Bishop of Galloway, as appears from the Acta Secreti Concilii, was successful
in this request, which also forms the subject of the letters No. CCCXLVI. and
CCCXLVHI. On the 9th January 1619 (only, as it proved, a few weeks before his
572 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1618.
tor this caus written to my Lord Duke his grace. I pray yow remem-
ber his Lordfhip with your belt counfel in my favours. It is verie hard
that I I'uld giue my owne geir to redeme a rent to the Mufitians; for
in pud faith I may not fpend aboue an hundreth merkis of our money
of all the rent of the Chappel in the yeare. And then to pay for my
houfe mail three hundreth merkis yearlie, and more. Your Kirkis ar all
putt to ane point, and ye are no altered one pennie from your erection.
Dundrennan is vacand, hot ye haue as yet fent me no presentation of
onv, which 1 pray yow to doe. I heare it is come, hot I haue not fene
it. Sen ye inuft pay the ftipend, it can be no proffit to yow that the
people wants a preacher. Old James Caftelhall being unmeet, through
age, for fervice of the Chappel, lies dimitted his benefice in his Maiefties
hand in favours of his fonne, who is a qualefeit mufitian. Ye will reifaiu
it. and obteine his Maiefties hand vnto it. Expecting your anfwer,
1 refl
Your owne in the Lord,
Cannoo-ait, Ausuft 10. 1618. W. B. of Gallow.w.
I praj yow giue your best countenance to
thia bearer, Mr John Adamsone, for he lies
taken great paines to honor his Maiestie, and
this Kingdome,1 as I doubt not ye will heare of
his Maiestie him self.
To the right honorable John Murray of Loch-
liiaben, Groome of his Maiefties bedchalmer.
death), the Lords of Secret Council, Commissioners of his Majestie's rents, pass
Act, which '• ordania and commandis Sir Gideon Murray ofElibank, Deputie Thesaurer,
to answer and mak payment to William Rischo|i of Galloway, Deane <>f his Majesteis
Cliapell, the sum £1028. 17- 8., as tlir last termcs payment of the Taxation of the
Bisohoprik of Galloway, Priorie of Quhithorne, ami Abbaceyis of Glenluce and Tung-
land," " in full contcntatioun and satisfactioun of his house maill, in all tyine cuming,
during his lyftime, sieing he cannot be commodiouslie ludgit and easit within his Majes-
ties Pali f llalyrudhouse."
Mr John Adamson, a native of Edinburgh, and at this time Minister of Lobherton,
1618.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 573
CCCLV.— LORD BINNING TO HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES.
Most Sacred Souerane,
At oure dimming to this towne, finding that the moft precife and
wilfull Puritanes wer chofin commiffionars be manie of the prefbiteries,
i'peciallie of Lowthain and Fyfe, I wes extreamlie donbtfull of the fucces
of your Majefties religious and juft defires. At the privat ineiting of
your Maiefties commiffionars and the Bifchops, my Lord of Santan-
drois denied not the apparent difficultie, bot declaired that, being hope-
full, that the happines which alwayes accumpanied the juftice of your
Royall dilfeins wald not faile in this action, he thought the viclorie
wold be more perfyte, and the obedience more hairtie, when the Puri-
tanes fould fie the Articles concluded in the prefence of thair greateft
patrons, thair opinions being confuted be liuelie reafons and vndeniable
trueth.
The fermon before the Affembly wes maid be the Bifchop of Aberden,
who, with great dexteritie, proponed the weght of the pourpofes to be
entreated, and the neceffitie of confideration, that the bodie of the
Church being affembled be your royall direction for treating of Articles
proponed be your Maieftie, firft to ane number of the principall minifters
at Santandrois, and thairefter in the Aflemblie at Santandrois, your
Maieftie had confaued great offence for the delayes then vfed ; and being
perfuaded in your excellent wifdome and confcience, that the Articles wer
juft and godlie, and onlie fchifted becaus thay wer proponed be yOur
Maieftie, be fuch as had gloried to be oppofite to your facred defires, it
wes to be feared, if, at this tyme, your Maieftie fould not reffaue fatiffac-
tion, your wraith might be fo kindled, as the Church, loufing your wounted
fatherlie fauour, thay might feill the heavie preiudice of that confequence.
had collected and published the various poems, speeches, and other congratulations to
King James, under the title of The Muse's Welcome, &c. " At his M. happie returne
to his old and native Kingdome of Scotland, after xiiii. years absence, in Anno 1617."
Edinburgh, 1618, folio. Adamson, in November 1623, was appointed Principal of the
University of Edinburgh.
574 ORIGINAL LETTEES RELATING [1618.
Ami thairfore exhorted thame, in humilitie, zeale, and Chriftian loue, to
difpofe thamefelues to proceid wifelie, and with all due refpec~t to your
Maieftie.
At the inciting of the Aft'emblie, the xYrchibifhop of Santandrois made
the exhortation, and he ane molt godlie and wife difcours,1 rernemhred
tin' auditouris of your Maieftics infinit benefites to the Churche, your
snfdome in thair direction for the keiping of puritie, and fuppreffing
poperie; your patrocinie of the good, rnercie to offenders of thair pro-
feffion, caire for prouifion of mentenance to paftours, and learning and
zeale in defence of the true Religion be your moft famous workes pub-
liflied aganis the aduerfars, which had incenfed the Papifts to think your
Maieftie the onlie lat of thair prevailing; and for that onlie querrel, to
(iik, by treacherous meanes, the trouble of your eftate, and deftruction
of your Sacred perfon : and the true profeffours throw all Europe to
honour your Maieftie as the proteclour of all the Reformed Churches, and
to acknowledge your Maieftie the vmpire, and moft competent and beft
qualified jugc of all controucrfies arriving amongis thame. Exhorting,
thairfore, curie one to confider and acknouledge how juftlie thay wer
bund to cxprefte thair loyall refpe6t and true obedience to your Maieftie,
by yeilding to your laufull defires in the articles proponed.
The exhortation ended, he called the commiflionars, and nominated
thefe for the conference. Sum proponed that ane Moderator might be
chofin ; whom he fdenced, becaus he wald not fuffer the privilege of his
place to be qucftioned : And thairefter rehearfing what had been done
in the Affemblie at Santandrois, and wittelie taking it pro confesso that
all the Articles wer in fubftance allowed thair, except that of Kneeling at
the communion, proponed that to be difputed. Great inftance wes maid
that, the mater being of fo heigh confequenee, might be entreated in the
I'lihlict Affemblie, hot the contrare wes ordained. Difticultic wes maid
anent the conception of the wourds of the queftion, and the oppoffites
rrged that reafons might be geuin why the article wes neceffar. It wes
anfuered and concluded, that the A'ticles cumming from your Maieftie
fould be allowed, vnles thay could prone it wer vnlaufidl. So Maiiter
1 Bishop Spottiffw I'a Sermon, preached ;it tlic opening of the Assembly (on 1 Cor.
1 1. 10 ), is printed at p. 21 — 4G of Dr Lyndesay's True Narration, &e., 1621. 4to.
1618.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 575
William Scot of Couper, being commanded to fpeak, opponed again*
the article with modeftie, and proteftation that he Mold be vnwilling to
adduce reafons to impugne ane propofitioun Gumming from your Maieftie ;
and thairefter, proceiding to his arguments, wes fecunded be Maifter
John Carmichell, with more vehemencie and wilfulnes. They alledged
that the ordour prefentlie obferued in this cuntrie being agreable to the
wourd, and Chryftes inftitution, and thay fworne at thair admiffion to the
miniftrie to obferue the true religion and difcipline reffaued in this
Church, thay could not with faif confcience alter it : which being cenfured.
thay came to the fuhftance of the quefiion, anent the manor of reffauing,
and fpent the reft of that day, and ane part of the nixt, in difputation
vpon that fubiecL Nothing being omitted be the aduerfars, which thair
owne inuentions, or the writings of thefe who allow thair opinion, could
fuggeft ; which being wifelie and learnedlie refuted be my Lord of Glafgo,
whom Dodlour Lindfay of Dundie, and Doclour Philp of Arbroth.
Doclour Bruce, and fum vthers of the beft and moft learned, did aflift,
with manie evident and pithie reafons, the article wes ordaned to be voted
in the conference, and in end allowed be fo great oddis of voices, as
gaue wonderfull contentment to all the well affecled ; yet the number of
the vulgar minifters having vote in the public!; Anemblie being verie
great, oure dowt refted what the euent might be, of that which depended
vpon the opinions of ane multitude of ignorant or preoccupied people.
For remeid whairof, my Lord of Santandrois, who, in direction, difputa-
tion, and all vther circumftances of this a&ion, expreffed great wifdome,
learning, and autoritie, well befeiming his place, delayed the voting the
fecund day, that he and his brethren might haue fum tyme to difpofe
thingis to ane wifhed end.
This day the Bifchop of Galloway maid ane verie pertinent fermon, to
perfuade the brethren to peace and edification. Thairefter, the Afl'emblie
convening, new difturbances wer caffin in to reinuerfe all that wes done
in the conference, and bring it of new to difputation, fo as my Lord of.
Santandrois wes forced to permit all the Articles to be of new reafoned ;
and if he had not be very graue autoritie reduced thair difcourfes to fuc-
cincl and formell reafoning, it had bene impoflible to bring maters to any
conclufion. Sum oppofitions maid yefterday wer this day repeated, and
576 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1618;
litle of any fubftance added be fuch as -nor not of the conference, all
which wea judiciouflie and perfpicuouflie refuted be my Lords of Sant-
androis and Glafgo, and Do&ours Lindfay and Philp, whocs faithfull and
profitable endeuours merites your Maiefties gracious remembrance.1
If complaint be maid be Maifter John Carmichell, that I wold not
Coffer him to enlairge his difcours of the ancient controuerfie, betwix the
Eafterne and AVefternc Church, anent the precife day of Chryftes birth,
I mull haue recours to your Maiefties mercie.
In end, my Lord of Santandrois, cutting fchort thair affectat fchiftis,
whairby thav intended aither to difappoint the mater, or to perfuade
tin- Affemblie to remit it to ane vther meiting, he ordaned this propo-
rtion onlie to be voted, Whether the Affemblie wald obey your Maieftie,
in admitting the Articles proponed be your MaiefKe, or refufe thame.
Sum inliftcd to haue thame feuerallie voted, bot both he and the Deane
of Winchefter (whole diligence, difcretion, counfall, and gude affiflance in
this feruice, lies bene faithfull and verie commendable) declaired that
your Maieftie wald reffaue none, if all wer not granted ; and fo being
put to voting in thefe termes, fourefcoir and fex allowed the Articles,
fourtie and one refufed thame, and three wer non liquet.
My Lord of Scone antiquum obtinet, and will neuer aberrate a via
Rerjia. My Lord Carnegie, the Thefaurar Depute, Aduocat, Kilfyth,
and Sir Andro Car, have done that faithfull dewtie which became
thame.
The Erie of Louthian, the Lords Sanquhar, Vchiltrie, and Boyd, did
lykwayes attend, with ane gude number of honorable and well affected
Barons ; bot the prayfc of the fucccs being onlie due to the wifdome of
your Maiefties directions, the wourthieit inftruments have bene the two
Archibifchops ami the Bifchops of Galloway and Abcrdene, and
remanent of thair Ellate, of whom none wer negligent or remifl'e, bot
profeffedlie refolued in the aduanccment of the action. Many Minifters
kythed verie dewtifull both in reafoning and voting; but all thefe
' I)r David Lyndesay, Minister of Dundee, in the following year was advanced to the
i Brechin, and waa consecrated at St Andrews on the -3d November. Dr Henry
Philip, who was Minister of Aherhrothock from 1601, seems not to have obtained an]
higher promotion for his services,
1618.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 577
particulars I mufl remit to the Deane of Winchefter's relation ; onlie
afluring your Maieftie, that alheit the contention was vehement, both
in the Conference and public!; Affemblie, yet efter thay wer voted, thair
appeired great contentment in many gude mens faces, for the happie
and peaceable approbation of your Maiefties Articles. If your con-
tinouall caire of the good of this Cuntrie and Churche moue your Royall
mynd to intend heirefter any Church maters of fuch confequence, I
befeech your Maieftie, for the good of your owne feruice, to employ ane
more fit Commiffioner in my place, who am als vnfkilfull in thir fub-
ieclis as I am vngratious to the oppofites. So, thanking God for the
blifled end of thir affaires, and praying him that your Maieftie may long
leiue and happelie prevaile in all your Royall interpryfes, I reft
Your Maiefties moft humble, faithfull,
and bund feruant,
Binning.
Sant Iohnfton, the 27 of Auguft,
at night, [1618.]
To the Kingis moft Sacred Maieftie.
CCCLVI DR JOHN YOUNG, DEAN OF WINCHESTER, TO MR ROBERT
BOYD OF TROCHRIG.
[Dr John Young, sixth son of Sir Peter Young of Seaton (one of King James's
preceptors), was born 25th June 1585. He completed his education in Sidney
Sussex College, Cambridge, and having taken degrees, he is said to have travelled
through France and Germany, as tutor to the son of Lord Wharton. — (Tho.
Smith, Vita? Eruditiss. et Rlustrium Virorum, Lond. 1707, 4to.) When the Deanry
of Winchester became vacant, by the promotion of Dr Thomas Morton to the
Bishoprick of Chester, John Young, S. T. P., obtained the appointment, and was
installed 8th July 1616 (Le Neve's Fasti, p. 289.) On the 29th of that month
he presided at a meeting at St Andrews, when the Principals of the Three Colleges,
and five other Ministers, " were inaugurate Doctors ; " and was also present at
4d
578 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G18.
the General Assembly held at Aberdeen, 13th August. He again visited his native
country in August 1G18, to assist in carrying through the Perth Articles. Two
other letters from him, addressed to Robert Boyd of Trochrig, Principal of the
College of Glasgow, are contained in Wodrow's Life of Boyd — (Wodr., Biogr.
Coll., vol. ii. p. 137-139.) James Young, late of Queen's College, Oxford, is called
the eldest son of Dr John Young, Dean of Winchester, 31st January 1G42. — (Wood's
Athena; Oxon., by Bliss, vol. ii. p. 49.) How long the Dean may have survived is
somewhat uncertain. According to Le Neve, his successor, Alexander Hyde, LL.D.
(afterwards Bishop of Sarum), was inducted 10th September 1CC0.
SlK,
I am exceiding forry I could not come to Edinburgh as foon as
I purpofed ; but tbe Affembly was not diflblved fo foon as I expected ;
and then I bad all my friends in tbe way, qui per vim festinanti alioqui
yratas, tamen, vel hoc nomine hujratas, injecerunt moras. I happened to
come to this toun within an hour after you were gone from it. If I had
bad wings to fly, I affure you I bad been with you. But in very deed
I dare not think of going backward, bis Majefly being writtin to, eight
days ago. that I was ready to return ; and the particular relation (and
1 thank God, to God's glory, the weel of his Church, and bis Majcity's
honour) referred to me. Pardon me therefore, Sir, if I had known
your mind in particular, alway deliberandum diu quod statuendum semel,
by your letter, I had been ready to return what I fhould have thought
belt. But, Sir, God hath given to you fo great a meafure of knowledge,
that you are both willing and able to inftruct and direct others ; and
truly, for my part, I fhould reckon it my happinefs if I might yet fome-
times fit ad pedes Gamalielis, and learn of you ; and am glad that our
Country, which has fo great ncid, injoyes you. "Wifhing that your pre-
cious talent may be imployed in a more fruitful ground, where more
profit might be made ; and that you might be tranflated from Glafguo
to the Univerfity of Saint Andrews,1 if it could be for your good. Sir,
I hope to hear from you often ; and by God's grace, at his Majefty's
1 Boyd was afterwards brought from Glasgow to be Principal of the University, and
one of the Ministers of Edinburgh, but his scruples regarding conformity to the Perth
Articles gave offence to his Majesty, by whose express commands to the Magistrates he-
was deprived, and confined within the bounds of Carrick.
1618.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 579
coming, to conferr at lenth, and redeem this lofs. In the meantime,
and for ever, I recommend you to the grace of God. Vivimus nos
Dei beneficio, et valemus. Vale, et nos, quo soles, amove semper prosequere.
Iterum atque iterum vale, et tuam Bodiam meo nomine saluta.
Tuus in Christo,
John Young.
Raptim Edinburgi,
30 Augusti, abituriens.
To his very loving and good friend and
brother, Mr Robert Boyd of Trocliridge,
Principal of the College of Glafgow.
CCCLVIL— THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO HIS MAJESTY
KING JAMES.
Sire,
Your Maieftie, vpon the end of our Synode, wes advertifed of
the good fuccefle of thofe bufineffis. The Dean of Winchefter wil now
relate the particular^, and witnefle that we omitted nothing quiche lay
in ws to doe for bringing matteris to the defyred end : his travelis haif
fervit to great purpofe, as I forefawe thei wold : not only wer the il dif-
pofed kept in a better temper, but otheris more indifferent made forward
be his prefence. In the beginning of the Aflembly, after the reading of
your Maiefties letter, he maid a fpeeche ' nioft perfwafive, to mak them
yeild to thefe Articles, qhairwith dyverfe of the calmer fort wer much
moved, and al the tyin did cary him felf fo wyfly and gravely, as I mult
profefie, I wes bothe helpit and vpheld be his good advyfe my felf, and
otheris wer taught be that qhiche thei law in him, to conform them
felfis vnto thair calling. Sire, I bliffe God, qho hes provydit your
1 Dr Young's speech is recorded in Lyndesay's True Narration, p. 55, from which it
was copied by Calderwood, and also in the Booke of the Universall Kirk.
580 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1618.
Maieftie of fo truftie and wyfe a Servant, and ws of fo good and faythful
a friend, and my certain hope is, that his fervice fum day fal proove
comfortable to the drarche of God, vnder your Maieftie. Remitting al
thingis to his remembrance, I moft humbly kifl'e your Maiefties handis.
Your Maiefties moft humble and obedient fervitour,
Sanctandrews.
St Andrews, the 2. Sept. 1618.
To his moft Sacred Maieftie.
CCCLVIII.— THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO JOHN MURRAY OF
LOCHMABEN.
Siu,
I advertifit yow be ane fchort tikket from Perth, that the bufines
had procedit wel and happely, qhiche wes thair to be done, far againit
the expeciatioun of al our adverfaries, qho thocht thai wer above ws in
number and ftrenthc. Many of the Noblemen and Barons his Maieftie
font letters to, for affifting the fervice, cam not, excufing tham felfis by
licknes and il difpofitioun, but I think thair myndes wer moir feik than
thair bodyis. and ar fo ftil. Yit fik ar many tyrnis to feik favour more
redy, and alio able to find it, as the moft forward : But if his Maieftie
be not plcfit to fet fum note vpon thamc and remember it, he provydis il
for the fervice of tyms followingc. At the leaft I wil pray yow that I may
haif letters of thankis to fuche as cam and attendit, qhairof I haif gifen
the Dean of \Vinchefter a memorandum. Mr Patrik Galloway kept
very good through out al, and fold haif his thankis. The fufticiencic of
the berar forbiddis me to be more particular in many thingis, qhiche by
him you wil vnderftand. He wil tellifie that we omitted no duty, and
[pared not eyther to fay or doe qhat wes fitting, and by this haif increafit
the malice and fpyt of adverfaries, fo far thai ar from beinge made wyfer
1618.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIKS. 581
and more temperat. I flayit at Perth with my Lord Sanqhar til the
Monday after, and faw his fonne and doughter maryit, qhiche matches I
pray God may proove happie. Now I am onlie to entreat your favor-
able remembrance of my Good-fonne, according to his Majefties promife,
for the landis in Ireland, if thai fal to be deuydit, and as yow haif ley-
fure to let me hear from yow, for to know that yow ar in good health
and at Courte wil much content me. If yow lyk to infill in the mater
of Craighal, qhairof I wrote, I pray yow advertife me. And fo com-
mitting yow for this tym to Godis protectioun, I reft,
Your affurit ever to command,
Sanctandkews.
I wil pray yow, Sir, that his Maiestie gif the
Dean of Winchester his chankis, qhiche he wel
deservis, for his wyes, graue, and faythful
cariage at this tym. In Edinburgh, at his
first lighting, he was voyced to be Bischop of
Durhesm, and so the rumour cam to me, that
the Bischop wes cum for our Assembly. I
knew it wes not, but as I said to himself, I
pray God, the occasion may gif it, and his
Maiestie may be plesit to mak that choyse,
qhich suld proove the goode of both King-
domes.
St Andrews, 2 Sept. 1618.
I muft pray yow now at the Thefaurer-Depute's being thair to remem-
ber his Majeftie of James Inglis, for qhom I wrote ; for his Lordfhip wil
teftifie that the matter is not great ; and it wil encourage the honeft man
to labour his Maiefties benefit in the Cuftomis and other thingis, qhairof
he wes a great inftrument before.
To my very honorabill good freind, Jhon
Murray of Lochmaben, of his Maiefties
bedchamber.
582 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G18.
CCCLIX.— THE BISHOP OF ABERDEEN TO HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES.
Most Sacred Soverain,
Your Majefties conftant favour, not only in heaping thus prefer-
ment on me, your Highnes vnworthy fervant, but gracioufly alio extend-
ing your princely benevolence to my brethren, Mr Jhon and Captain
Forbeffe,1 as it infinitly augmenteth my obligatioun, fo doeth the confider-
atioun of my great imparitie for any due correfpondence to the con-
ceaved exfpc&atioun and vndeferved love of fo great a Prince much
confound my mynd within me. I can promis nothing but an wpricht,
hcartie, and humble affe&ioun. And though your Majeftie fliuld find
your felfc difappointed of what forder the fame hath perhaps pra?fumed
to be in me, yet fhal this your Royal cair and inclinatioun to promoove
thofe who, howfoever, ar efteemed of any worth being commonly per-
ceaved, be a great incitament to al good fpirits to purfue eftir and
infift in the way of vertue and weil doing ; and naughtie men fhal be
affrayed to feik for that which they fhal fee in your Highnes purpos
deftaincd but for vertuous mynds : Wherby your Majeftie fhal be ferved
aboundantly, and of the belt fort of men. So as this fruit fhal fuuiwhat
recompence my defect, and your Majefties errour in making fuch choife,
wherein albeit no more be found anfwerablc, yet your heroik mynd wil
ftil love your own benefit in one who fhal remain ever, if not able, yet
execiding willing to pleafe your Majeftie. In this alwayes I mull rely
vpon your Highnes clement confideratioun and favourable indulgence,
Icing (befydes diners impediments in the conditioun both of my perfon
and eftait, wherof I wil not fpeak), the great and dayly talk of my calling,
impofed on me by God and your Majeftie, lyeth fo far diftant from the
place of this other fervice, that if thcrthrough I can not poffibly give
ordinar attendance therto, your Highnes wil not interpret it ather to a
mifregard of the honour done me, or to any want of affectioun to ferve
your Majeftie to my power. The Lord give your Majeftie a long
1 Mr John Forbes, formerly Minister of Alford, and Captain afterwards Sir Arthur
Forbes, who settled in Ireland.
1618.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIES. 583
and happy reigne heir, and an reternall heirefter with Him felfe in the
heavens.
Your Majefties humble fubject and affe&ionat Servant,
Edinbrugh, 9 September 1618. Pa. Aberdene.
To the King his moft Sacred Majeftie, theife.
CCCLX.— HIS MAJESTY'S MISSIVE TO THE PRIVY COUNCIL.
Richt truftie and richt weilbelouit Cofen and Counfaillour, and
richt truftie and weilbelouit Counfallouris, We grite yow weile : Whereas
vpoun the diffolutioun of the laft Affemblie at St Androis, We fignified
Our iufte difpleafour aganis the proceidinges and cariage of bufynes in
the fame. So now, in this laft meiting at Perth, haueing reaped bettir
fruitis of obedience vnto God and Our felf from thofe who aucht to be
paternis of pietie and obedience vnto vthers, We are glad to male
knowne vnto yow Owre grite contentment in receaueing fuck dew fatif-
fa&ioun : And thairfoir, by Oure authoritie Royall, We ratifie and con-
firme all the Articles agreid vpoun in the laid laft Aflemblie, and do
ordeyne that thay fall in all tyme heireftir haue the ftrenth and force of
lawis : And do heirby will and require yow to tak fuche order as the
fame may be put to dew executioun in all places of that Oure King-
dome ; and in fpeciall, that ye tak particular ordour for abfteyning from
all kind of labour and handie work on thefe dayis which ar appointed
to be keeped holie and dedicat to Godis fervice : Wherein not doubting
of your dewtifull cair and beft endeuouris, We bid you fairewele.
Gevin at Oure Honnour of Hamptoun,
the 29 of September 16 18.1
1 A Proclamation by authority of the Privy Council, on the 21st October (when the
above missive letter was read and ordered to be recorded), was made on the 26th, rati-
fying the Acts of Perth Assembly. It is printed in Calderwood's History, vol. vii. p. 337.
584 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1618.
CCCLXI.— THE FROVOST AND BAILLIES OF EDINBURGH TO
HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES.
Most Sacred and most Gracious Soceraigne,
May it pleis your Maieftie, the neceffitie we Hand in at this pre-
fent of fomo Minifteris, hy the deceis of foine, and difchairge of otheres,
and the daylie incres of our people, moved ws to fuite at the late Aflem-
blie which your Majeftie calht at Perth, the planting of Mr Williame
Scott, Mr Johne Forbes, and Mr Alexander Henryfone with ws.
Quhairin we ohtaynit nothing but ane comrniffioune to certaine of that
number to concurre with the Archbifchope of Sanctandrois for thair
tranfport to ws, in caice your Majefties confent wer procuired,' which we
ar now humblie to intreat at your Majefties handis : And that your
Highnes wilbe gratiouflie pleafed to command the Archbifchope to con-
veine the reft, and end that bufiyenefs to our defyres, which we truft
falbc to your Majefties contentment and the weill of our Churche.
Othcrwayes fould we never be inftant for thame nor any vther, haveing
nothing moire in our intentiounis and wifliis than to live peaceablie
wndcr your Majeftie, and in all fubjectioune, as we audit, to your High-
nes wyfe and happie governament, for the continuance quhairof we pray
daylie to Almichtie God : And fall ewer remaine,
Your Majefties humble and obedient fubjeftis and fervandis,
The Proveft and Baillies of Edinburgh,
"WlLLIAME NlSBETT, PrOWeft.
Johnne Byris, Baillie. Al. Clark, Baillie.
David Michellson, Bailie. Geo. Foulis, Bailie.
Edinburgh, the xxj day of October 1G18.
To his Sacred Majeftie.
1 This desire, it is well known, was not granted. Scott was Minister of Cupar in File,
Henryson or Henderson Minister of Leuchars, and Forbes was now settled in Holland.
1618.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 585
CCCLXIL— LORD BINNING TO HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES.
Most Sacred Souerane,
Your Maiefties Counfell in Scotland lies exped and fent hither
the Commiffion for treating with thefe of the Lowe Cuntries, anent the
fifchingis, together with information of the iniurie and preiudice fuf-
teaned be the whole Kingdome, he the increafe of their daylie vfurpa-
tion in your Maiefties feas, and of nianie wrongis done vpon land in
Orknay and Zetland to diuers your Maiefties fubiects ; bot becaus the
complaints ar generall, I haue writtin to caufe fpecifie the particulars,
and the meanes of probation of the fame.
The note of the Counfel's proceidings fent heirwith will teftifie to
your Maieftie their exact diligence in all that does concern this Treatie,
and in the executioun of your Eoyall commandements aganis the Erie
of Argyle. The Vicount Fentoun will mak knowne to your Maieftie
the eftate of his efcheat and lyfrent, which is in his Brother's perfon.
Now, fince the prefence of the Commiffionars for the Lowe Cuntries
is liklie to giue beginning to the Treatie, I moft humblie befeik your
Maieftie to let the Commiffioners for our cuntrie know the groundis
which your Maieftie will command ws to keip, and the poyntis we may
vrge, which we fall ftryue to obferue with all fidelitie and caire. The
Marquis of Hamilton, whom your Maieftie lies appoynted to be of that
number, being particularlie informed be your Maieftie of your jdeafour
in the premiffis, will be witnes of our endeuours in the profecution
thairof. So, wifhing that God may continow his grace and fauour in
this and all your Maiefties affaires, and prorogat your health, lyfe, and
contentment manie happie yeiris, I reft
Your moft Sacred Maiefties moft humble and
faithfull fubiecl; and feruant,
Binning.
Pleafe your Maieftie, when I wes clofing this letter, I receiued from
4 E
5S6 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1618.
the Archibifchop of Santandrois anc letter aduerteiting that, vpon infor-
mation of fum difobedience liklie to kythe in fum Miniflers aganis the
Actis of the laft Affemblie, he had tryftcd the Bifchoppis to meit him at
Edinburgh, whair they have ordancd the copies of the laft Actis to be
lent to the Prefbiteries, with expreffe command to them to obey them.
They oarniillie defire that your Maieftie may be pleafed to fend
expreffe command by letter to Mr Alexander Gibfon not to giue uwt
letters to any Minifter vpon the late modifications appoynted be the
Commifiioners of Parlemcnt, vnles the Miniflers produce their Bifchop's
teftimoniall of their conformitie to the Actis of the late Afiemblie, -which
direction rctpiyres great haift.1
Whythall, 2S Nouember [1618.]
To the Kingis moil Sacred Maieftie.
CCCLXIII THE ARCHBISHOP OF GLASGOW TO THE PRESBYTERY
OF AYR.
YVeebeloved Brethren,
Ye remember how earneftlie I exhorted you at the laft Synode
holden at Glafco, to giue your obedience to the Kings Majeftie, and the
ordinances of the laft Generall Affemblie holden at Perth, whereof ye
1 The answer to this request was probably contained in the following Missive, of
which a contemporary transcript (Wodrow MSS., fol. vol. xliii., no. 89), in Calderwood'.s
hand, is dated 1619:—
[JaMEH It.] — Trustie and welbeloved, We greete vow weill. Quhairas we ar informed
that diuerse of the Miuistrie, according to their accustomed refractarie humours, seeke
a ibterfuges and delayes from conforming themselves to the Acts of the late Gem rail
AtSsemblie at Perth, It is therefore our pleasure that yee give out no letters to anie
Minister vpon the late Modiilcatioun made by the Commissioners of our last Parliament,
saving u> sucbe as sail produce to yow a testificate vnder the hand of the Bishop of
the Diocese quhairin they remaine, of their conformitie to the saids Acts. And herein
willing yow not to fade, as ye will ansuer to the contrarc at your further perrell, We
bid yow fare weill. [Given, &e.]
1618.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 587
are not ignorant nor forgetfull. The 25th day of December approacheth,
upon which day it is ordained, that everie one of you fould preache at
leaft one ferinon, of the Nativitie and Incarnation of the Son of God,
our Lord and Saviour Jefus Chrift. Or if your people will affemble
againe, ye may preach another alfo. Thefe therefor are to intreat you,
and if intreatie and requeifting will not move you to doe your duetie
willinghe and ohedientlie, as becometh good fubjecls and godlie paftors ;
then, in his Majefties name and authoritie, for difcharge of my duetie
and fervice, I doe by thir prefents command you, all and everie one of
you, to make due and lawfull premonition to your parochiners, to
affemble and conveane themfelfs the faid twenty-five day of December
nixt to come, at your feverall paroch kirks; and there, by public!;
preaching, prayer, and thankfgiving, to worfhip God and praife him for
the ineftimable benefit of the birth and incarnation of his Sone. Attefting
alio hereby your oune hearts and confciences, that whatsoever puniih-
ment fall be inflicted by his Majefties authoritie upon anie of you that
fall be tryed to difobey, or whatfoever trouble or fchifme fall arife in the
Kirk by your obftinate and inexcufable refufing, all fall be impute juftlie
to yourfelfes, as being refra6torie, and well deferving, by your contumacie,
to be punifhed not onlie by his Majeftie, but alfo to be depofed from
your offices and places. I fall be verie forie and heartilie greeved to fee
the peace of our Kirk troubled, the Eftate thereof endangered, and the
unitie which fould be amongft yourfelfes devydit ; and I fall find myfelf
heavilie perfecuted by anie of you who fall be tryed to be either authors
or inftrumcnts of fuch great evills. But hoping better of you, and that
ye will in holie wifdome and due obedience conforme yourfelfs to that
which hath fo much lawfull authoritie, and will prove fo profitable ; I
commend you to the grace of God, and refts
Your loving Brother,
Glafgow, penult November 1618. Ja. Glasgow.
To his Reverend and welbeloued Brethren, the
Moderator andBrethren of the Prefbyterie of Air.
ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G1J
CCCLXIV.— LORD BINNING TO HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES.
Most Sacred Souerane,
I vifternight late, recciuccl anc letter from the Archibifchop of
Santandrois, Ggnifieing that he had before writtin to the Deane of Win-
chester, to inforine your Maieftie of his opinion anent the ferraons to be
made at this approching Chriftmas, in the churches of Edinburgh;
and that knowing fenfyne that the Deane wes not at Court, and fo fear-
ing that your Maieftie fould not in dew tyme be aduerteifed of his
humble opinion, he lies willed me to fignifie to your Maieftie, that the
Miniftrie of Edinburgh wer earnift with him to preache that day in
Edinburgh ; which he had refufed, and had willed them to preache in all
the churches of the Towne that day, knowing manie of the cuntrie to
depend vpon their exemple : And thairfore, if your Maieftie intend that
courfe, he earniftlie defires your Maieftie to fend letters to them, with
all goodlie diligence, declairing to them your exprefs pleafour thair-
anent.
He wrytis, that thofe Miniftcrs ftill infift with him to till the place for
this tyme, and that Maifter Patrick Galloway, whom he findis beft
mynded, promifes that from that tyme furth they will tak ordour to
obey the Aclis; and if your Maieftie think good that he grant their
defire, vpon your Maicfties fpeidie aduerteifment, he fall returnc to
Edinburgh, and giue the people the beft fatiffaclion he can that day,
becaus he wiflies all thingis to be done calmelie, forefeing that if they
faile to keip the day by their fermons on it, others will be the more
animated to difohey; and thairfore thinkis, if his fupplieing the place
at this tyme may induce them heirefter to Conformitie, it fall not be
the wiiil't courfe, hot that he lies not yeilded to them as yet, fufpending
his rclblution till he know your Maiefties determination, being reddie
to do that office, if fo your Maieftie allow: And if your Maieftie will
have the Minifters themfema to preache, he thinkis it expedient that
your Maieftie Bgnifie your pleafour be your ownc letter as from your
felf, declairing that your Maieftie will not be content to haue one
1618.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 589
Church ferued, except they be all ; and if your Maieftie allow him to
put af this tynie, upon the hopes they giue him of future confor-
mitie, he fall willinglie do it; humblie craiving that your Maiefties
pleafour may be fpeidilie fignified. So, praying God to bliffe your
Maieftie with long lyfe, health, and all wifhed profperities, I reft
Your Maiefties moft humble, faithful, and obedient
fubiecl; and feruant,
Binning.
Whythall,1 6th Dec. [1618.]
To the Kingis moft facred Maieftie.
CCCLXV.— MB ANDREW AIDY, PRINCIPAL OF MARISCHALL COLLEGE,
ABERDEEN, TO HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES.
To the Kingis most Excellent Maiestie,
The humbil Petition of Andro Aidy,2 Moil humbly befeiching
1 The King, at this time, resided for some weeks at Newmarket.
• Aidy or Aidie was a native of Aberdeen, and took his degree of A.M. probably in
King's College, about 1G03 or 1604. In the latter year he was incorporated " in Collegio
Theologico," or St Mary's College, St Andrews. Having gone abroad, he was elected
successor to Barth. Keckermau, who died in 1609, as Professor of Philosophy at Dantzig ;
and he there published, in 1610, a small volume of Latin poems, " Pastoria ; " and in 1612,
" Tractatus de Noctuambulonum Ingenio et Natura." This prose treatise is dedicated to
George Montgomery, Bishop of Meath and Clogher, and the author refers to his having
visited Ireland on some special business. In 1615 he became Principal of Marischall
College, Aberdeen. In the above Petition, which may be assigned to the later part of
1618, he alludes to the desire on the part of Patrick Forbes of Corse, the newly conse-
crated Bishop of Aberdeen, to deprive him of the office, for the advancement of his son,
Dr John Forbes, then a Regent in King's College. From a letter dated 4th July 1620,
it will be seen that Bishop Forbes speaks very disparagingly of Aidy and his conduct
while Principal.
590 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1618.
your Maieftie, not to conceauc ill of your Pctitionar, for a Difpute, con-
cerning Prayer for the Deade, betwix D. Forbes and him, wherof (God
knowis) he wes hlamlefs, being forced tliair vnto, fore againft his wil,
aether (he haueing fubmitted himfelfe to the determination of the
Aivhihifhope and Yniueifite of St Androfs) did he affirme any thing of
him felfe, but only did report the judgement of Proteftant Theologs,
hoping to give vour Maieftie, and all learned, good fatiffa&ion for his
opinion in that povnt ; and whatfumcuir elfe may eoncerne ather his
dutie to God, or your Maiefties feruicc.
And fince it is difficil now-a-dayis, to hue free from detraction, your
Pctitionar humbly befeicheth your Maieftie, rather to confidder his
feruice formerly doone (at his abyding at Dantzig) againft the Jefuites
of Brauntberg,1 auctors of that mofl infamous pafquil Bartolus Paccnius.
As alfo of his fervice againft the Arrians, who (be dedication of their
Catechife2) did preafs to mak your Maieftie Patron of their Sect, and
lvkwayis of many vther goode offices, performed for the Contree, in his
former peregrinatious, then by any milreport, to conceaue a fmiftroufs
opinion of your Pctitionar, ather in his religion or fidelitie towards your
Maiefties feruice, and ordinances, in all points.
And wheras the Bifhop of Abirdene has and doeth ayme at your
Petitionar's place for his own Son's preferment,3 your Petitioner (as not
being able to refift the Bifhop's difcyns and moyen) defyrouis to line in
pace and quyet : doeth moll humbly intreate your Maieftie to grant him a
i'atling in any place befvds, where he may doe your Majeftie the Churche,
1 The word in the original is not very distinct : Braunsberg, in East Prussia, is not for
distant from Dantzig. The title of the Pasquil has not been discovered.
J This evidently refers to the Latin translation of the Socinian " Raeovian Catechism,"
so called from Raeow, in Poland, where it was originally published, with a dedication to
King James: " Catechesis Ecclesiarum qua in Regno Polonia1, et niagno Ducatu Lithu-
anuB, etc. affirmant, neminein alium, prater Pstrem Domini nostri Iesu L'hristi, esse ilium
unum Dcum Israelis, &c. Raeovke, Anno Domini, 1G09." 12mo.
» Dr John Forbes: Aidy's successor, however, was William Forbes, who was trans-
lated, in March 1622, to Edinburgh as one of the Ministers, and in 1633, when that
Bee «;i^ erected, he mis promoted to be first Bishop of Edinburgh; a distinction which
he enjoyed for the brief space of three months.
1618.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 591
or Contree feruice, and he fhalbe reddy to giue way to the Btfhop's
intention in relinquifing his prefent place, or native foyle, yf it fhalbe
your Maieities wil and plaifur : Praying ftill to God for your Maiefties
long lyfe, profperoufs healthe, and inoft happy reigne, with all felieite
and contentment in this lyfe and in the lyfe to cum.
CCCLXVL— THE BISHOP OF MUERAY TO KING JAMES.
Sacred Soverane,
It may pleafe your moft excellent Maieftye, at your Maiefties
laft being in Sanclandrois, within this your Maiefties Kyngdome, it wes
your Maiefties good pleafour to difpone to me the gift of that ten thou-
land merkis, quhervpon this Lord Spynie hade obtenit decreit againft
me ; the famin being fallin in your Maiefteis handis by the faid Lord
Spynie his being denuncit your Maiefteis rebell, and remaning at the
home yeir and daye. And now fum vther perfoun haiffing taine ane
generall gift of the Lord Spynie his lyfrent, makis me contradictione
befoir the Lordis of Seffioun ; all this mater, nochtheles, is in your
Maiefteis handis, the Lordis, of Seffioun, depending vpoun the know-
ledge of your Maiefteis mynd and will : giue it be your Maiefteis goode
pleafour and will, that this laft gift, giffin to me at Sanctandrois, falbe
excepted furth of that generall gift granted be the Thefaurer, and
that the gift difponit to me, and figned be your Maieftie, fall ftand
firme. Quhervpon, giue it fall pleas your Maieftye to direct your
Hienes miffiue to the Lordis of Seffioun, fchewand thame that it is
your Maiefteis goode pleafour that the famin gift difponit to me vpon
that ten thoufand merkis (for I craiwe no more) falbe holdin furth
and valide for my releiff, and I exonerit of the famin, according to
your Maiefteis meaning. This fall eafe me of greit truble, and prevent
my ruine, that I may be able to ferwe your Maiefty with all your
Maiefteis benefits beftowed vpoun me. Thus, expecting your Maiefteis
clemencye and favour, and wifching all health and happines to your
Maiefty heir, and eternall heirefter, I commend your Maiefty, eftate,
592 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G18.
with your Maiefteis Royall poftcrity, to continuall prefervatioun of the
Lord Almichtye.
Tour Maiefteis maift lmmill and affe&ionat fervitour,
Al. B. off Murkaye.
Edinbrugb, the day off l 1618.
To the Kyng his moft excellent Maieftve.
CCCLXVn.— LOED BINNING TO HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES.
Most Sacred Sotjerane,
I haue, according to your Maiefties direction, tryed the behauiour
of the Magiftrates of Edinburgh at Chriftmas laft ; and learned that the
Proueft, Bailies, and Counfell, convoyed my Lord Chancelar to the Hie
Church, and wer all prefent at ferinon, fo as thair wes no default for
want of their good cxemple.
The Archibifchop of Santandrois affures me that he lies written to
your Maieftie of all that he hes tryed concerning the dewtie or vndewti-
fulnes of minifters and others, anent the obferuation or violation of that
holie day, and hes confirmed the trueth of all that I fpak to your Maieftie
of Maifter Patrik Galloway and Maifter William Struthers faithfull and
frank proceiding at that tyme.
Of your Maiefties directions concerning the Erie of Argyle, and other
particulars, I fall giuc accoinpt efter the nixt counfell day.
Maifter Thomas Knox, fonc to the Bifchop of the lies, is to informe
your Maieftie of the prefent eftatc of the lies, whairby your Maieftie -will,
in your moft excellent wifdome, judge what to direct for the perfyte fet-
ling of order and obedience in thofe barbarous pairtis. I haue knowne
his father and himfelf fo faithfull in your Maiefties feruice, as I am con-
1 In the original letter both the day and month are left blank.
1619.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIES. 593
fident your Maieftie may beleue the trueth of his report and Gnceritie of
his good intentions. So, hairtelie befeeching God to bliffe your Maieftie
with long lyfe, perfyte health, and conftant prolperitie, I reft
Your moft Sacred Maiefties moft humble, faithfull,
and obedient fubiecl; and feruant,
Edinburgh, penult of Januar, 1619. Binning.
To the Kingis moft facred Maieftie.
CCCLXVIIL— LORD BINNING TO HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES.
Most Sacred Souerane,
This day certification is granted be the Counfell aganis the Erie
of Argyle, and he ordaned to be denunced and repute as ane traitour for
not compeirance.
The Cornmimoners for the Burrowes and Schipmaifters haue bene
before the Counfell, and their controuerfie, for exportation and impor-
tation of merchandice in countrie bottomes, is to be determined before
they go from this towne.
I fignified to the Counfell your Maiefties pleafour anent their repair-
ing to fermon vpon the Soundayes, to your Maiefties Chapell of Haly-
rudhows, which they ar willing to do, and wald haue done alreddie, if
the Bifchop of Gallowayes heavie feiknes had not hindered him to
preache this tyme bygane.1 He promeilis to aduerteis the Counfell
1 William Cowper, Bishop of Galloway, died at Edinburgh on the 15th February
1619. The Earl of Dunfermline, in a letter to Murray, dated Edinburgh, 19th Feb-
ruary 1619, mentions Cowper's death, without any remark : — " All the occurrences I
can write to yiow: Our Bischiop off Galloway is departed this lyff: Mr Robert Bruce.
Minister, according to his Sacred Maiesties royall direction, is confined to his awin
house, and ane mile about. Nocht ellis at this present," &c. (State Papers and Letters,
p. 318.) In note 2, page 571, the date of the Act of Privy Council, relating to Cowper.
instead of the 9th, should be the 19th of January.
4 F
594 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G19.
when his recouerie fall inable him to preache, and they to refort to it
as your Maieftie lies commanded.
All other directions Qgnified be me to the Counfell be your Maiefties
commandement ar obeyed. So. prayeing God to eftablifh the perfyte
bappinea of yonr faithful! fubiectis heir, he the wifhed lenth and num-
ber of vour Maiefties molt profperous yeires, in health and contentment.
I refl '
Your moft Sacred Maiefties moft humblie faithful!,
and oblehTed fubieet and feruant,
Edinburgh, 4th Feb. [1619.] Bixxing.
To the Kino-is molt facred Maieftie.
CCCLXIX.— HIS MAJESTY'S .MISSIVE TO THE LORDS OF PRIVY
COUNCIL.
James R.
Right truftie and right weilbelouit Coufen and Counlallour, and
right truftie and weilbeloucd Counfallouris. AYe grcit vou weill. AVhereas
we are crediblie enformed that the vndewtifull and factious behauiour of
Mr Robert Bruce, euer fince his enlargement oute of the North, hath,
contrarie to our expectatioun, bene a continowall hinderance to the vnitie
of the Church and advancement of Godis fervice and Ouris thairiu, We
banc thoght goode by thefe prefentis to will and requyre yow to confyne
him in his awen houfe [of Kinnaird], willing him not to exceid the
boundis of one myle frome the fame till Our forder pleal'ure fchalbe
knowin, vnder the pane of Our heicheft difpleafour. And heirin wil-
ling yow not to faill, Wee hid you fairweill.
Givin at ( hire Palice of Whitehall the viij. of Februarie 1G19.1
' Tlie Privy Council, on the 16th February 1019, directed a charge for Bruce to con-
fine himself within his own house of Kinnainl, in terms of the above letter.
1619.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 595
CCCLXX.— THE BISHOP OF MURRAY TO HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES.
Most Gratious Souerane,
It may pleafe your moft excellent Maieftye, at your Maiefteis
laft being in this Kyngdome, amongft the manifold vthers benefitis
bellowed on me, the meaneft of your Maiefteis creatures, it pleafed your
Hienes to gift to me ane difcherge of that ten thowfand markis quhilk
fell in your Hienes handis be ane regiftreat horning againft the Lord
Spynie, quhilk foume your Maiefty knowis wes payit befoir be me to his
tutour ; and now, fum impediment being made to me thairanent, it is
moft neceffar that I haue your Maiefteis letter to my Lord Chancellar
and remanent Lordis of Counfell, defyrand thame that thay do nothing
to the preiudice of that your Maiefteis gift and difcherge granted to me,
bot that thai hold the famin as lauchfull and valide to my effect as thai
will do your Maieftye acceptable and thankfull ferwice.
Farder, pleas your Maieftye, I hawe trani'ported my Commiffar his
feate of Confiftorye from the Brugh of Elgene to the old place thairoff
within the Chanonrye churche, and lykvys hes caufed repaire the
Cbaptour Hous thairoff, both for the daylie exerceis of the Minisfterie,
as alfo for the conventione of the Channonis of the Cathedrall kirk, in
houp lykwyis that the Queir thairoff may fumtyme be repairit for ane
paroche kirk, be your Maieftes direction to thefe benorth the vater of
Die to contribute for repairing of the famin. Quheranent I fall giff
your Maiefty farder licht at the nixt occafione. For this caufe the Pro-
weft, Bailzeis, and Counfell of the Toun of Elgene hes tane fum excep-
tion againft me, and ar becum fumquhat more oppofite to thir defignis,
quhilk ar a part of your Maieftes fpeciall fervice. Wherfor I humblie
intreat your Maieftye to direct your Hienes letter to the faidis Proweft,
Bailzeis, Counfell, and Communitye of the Brugh of Elgene, command-
ing thame that thair be no electione of Proweft, Bailze, Counfell, or
Clerk within thair Brugh, bot be my aclwyfe, confent, and nominatioun,
as that quhilk your Maiefty hes concredited to me, your Maieftes fer-
vand, and that under the pane of your Maieftes wrath. This is the only
596 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1619.
way to Have tlianie from crocing fo good a vork, vtherwayes tliair
courfes ar to be fearit draw to your Maicilcs farder offence. Your
Maiefty granted the lyke to the Archibifchopis off Sanclandrois. Now,
craiffing your Maieftes pardoun vpon my knees for my importunat let-
ter, I pray, and fall continew, for your Maieftes moft happie ftate in this
lyff, and your Hienes royell pofteritie, and for ewerlafting glory in the
lyff to cum.
Your Maieftes moft humble and affectionat
fcrvitour to death,
Ax. B. off Murray.
Elgene, the xxiiij Februarij 1619.
To the Kyng his moft excellent Maieftye.
CCCLXXI.— LORD BINNING TO HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES.
Most Sacked Souerane,
My Lord Chancelar being yifternight abfent when we reeeiued
the forowfull newes of the death of your moft excellent Quene of bliffed
memorie,1 and few of the Counfell being in this towne, at firft I coidd
refolue no farder bot to aduerteis thofe who wer prefent of the deplorable
accident, and will them to prepaire themfelfis as apperteined. I fent
alfo for the Magiftrats of the towne, and gaue them the like aduerteif-
' Anna of Denmark, wife of King Janus the Sixth: She was married in 1590, and
died at Hampton Court 2d March 1G18-9, in the 45th year of her age. A minute and
interesting account of the Queen's illness and death is contained in a letter, dated Den-
mark House, 27th March 1619. — (Abbotsford Miscellany, p. 81.) Caldenvood says,
" The Lords of Secrete Counsoll were advertised of her departure upon the 7th of
Marehe, and commandit to putt on docile needs, which they and sundrie noblemen did.
Bui there was Litle or noe lamentation among the people." — (History, vol. vii. p. 351.)
It could not otherwise be expected, considering the Queen's non-interference in public
affairs, and her continued absence during sixteen years from this country.
1619.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 597
merit, and directed the Clerk of Counfell to Maifter Patrik Galloway,
defiring him to conuene with the reft of the Minifters heir, and giue
order that honorable commemoration may be maid in their fermons of
hir vertuous lyfe and Chriftian death ; wheiranent I wrait alfo to the
Archibifehops of Santandrois and Glafgow.
And albeit I haue hard no thing from your Maieftie, or any of your
Minifters at Court, of the opinion concerned of the hoftile intention of
the Spanyards agains your Maiefties dominions, yet the rumours ar fo
frequent and probable heir, that I haue thoght that my fault wald be
pardonable to defire the Archibifehops to cum heir, and bring with them
fum of the wyfeft and moft fecret of the bifchops, that I might informe
tbem what rumours went, and defire them by difcreit and fecret meanes
to try evrie one of them in his owne boundis, be fuch as they know beft
affected, what wes the behauiour or diffeins of fuch as ar fufpected in
religion, or otherwayes difcontented, to the effect your Maieftie might be
informed, and be your direction fuch order taken as in your Maiefties
moft excellent wifdome fould feeme expedient. And if your Maieftie,
vpon more fure information, be confirmed in opinion of any trouble
intended be the Spaniard, it may appeir not vnfit that your Maieftie call
to Court, vpon fuch pretextes as may breid leaft diftruft, thofe who may
be iuftlieft fufpected, able and inclined, to mak any difturbance, or giue
fauour and ayde to enemies, that, being deteaned their, thair pourpofes
may be difapointed, and themfelfs kept as pledgis of the dewtie and
obedience of their freindis and feruants ; which will cairie no preiudice,
if no danger be intended, and being neglected, may do great hairme, if
ennemies be to moue trouble in thir pairtis.' Howeuer it be, I think
the Prelates fitteft of all others to expreffe their diftruft and prouidence
in ane matter of this kynd, whairat the Spaniards can not tak iuft offence,
fince all is to be aduyfed quyetlie, and for no other end but precaution
of evill, fpecially fince all their doing will proceed withowt any direction
from your Maieftie or the Counfell.
If any mak fate for the gift of the Pryourie of Hadinton, I hope your
Maieftie will be gratiouflie pleafed to remember that your Maieftie
bellowed it vpone one fone of myne, which I humblie wifh he may
reteane, more for ane mark of your royall fauour, nor any profit can
698 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1619,
arryfe of it. So, befeiking God to preferue your Maieftie in long and
militant health and happines, I reft
Your Maiefties molt humble, faithfully and bund
fubieft and feruant,
BiXNiNf;.
Edinburgh, 8 Merche [1619.]
To the Kino- his moft facred Maieftie.
CCCLXXIL— LORD BINNING TO HIS MAJESTY KEN'G JAMES.
Most Sacked Souerane,
1 know your Maieftie will exfpcel from me true and timelie rela-
tion of the obferuation of Eafter day in this towne. The accompt of
tin' performance of your Maiefties directions, conteaned in my lalt, fent
to Janus Douglas, to be fchowne to your Maieftie, told, that the Privie
Counfallours abfent, whoes dwellingis wer neir this Toune, wer, be my
Lord Chancelar's letters, defired to cum and accumpanie the nomber
prefent, who wer to communicat heir according to your Maiefties com-
mandement. The Erles of Mar, Winton, Louthian, Lordis Meiming
and Bukcleuch, came; the reft wrait thair true excufes of aige or feik-
aes. \ pon Setterday, I defired the Lordis of Seffion to convene vpon
Eafter day at my Lord Chancelar's ludgeing, that all the nomber might
accumpanie his Lordfhip to church. The lyke wairning was lent to
the Privie Counfelloura being in towne, who did as they wer defired.
Maifter Andro Etamfay made the fermon of preparation, and vied verie
good reafons to perfuade the people that with fafe eonfeience they
might, and in C'hriliian duetic they wer bund, to obey that which was
ordaned he the Affemblie, and commanded be vour Maieftie; he hav-
ing done the lame vpon Good Fryday. Maifter Patrik Galloway
1619.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 599
preached vpon Eafter day, who omitted no good meanes to inftrucT; the
people of the lawfulnes of the ordour prcfcryved, and neceffitie of their
obedience and conformitie ; and thairefter going to the celebration, the
Nobilmen, Connfellours, and Seffioners, going to the firft table, all vpon
their knees, Maifters Galloway and Ramfay did firft receive kneeling,
and thairefter miniftred to the honorable perfons being at table, geuing
the bread and wyne to euerie one with their owne handis, with the
recommendation and fubftance of the Holie Sacrament, fo zealouflie as
moued the people to receiue with great lmmilitie and deuotion ; whoes
exemple wes fo nniformellie followed be the whole congregation prefent,
that neither man nor woman, during the fpace of almoft foure houris,
offered to receiue fitting vj)on the furmes, except one onelie baffe fel-
low ; and I am perfuaded that all that did fie that holie aclion, or par-
ticipat of it, dcpairted fo well edified that, in their conl'cience, they
regrait that this godlie and denote order wes not foner inftituted, and
that in all their lyfe they will neuer willinglie receiue in any other
maner. Sum who wer in the Colledge Churche haue told me that the
lyke order wes obferucd their be Maifter Williame Struthers and Maifter
Thomas Sydierf, with the lyke conformitie and contentment. It is true
that many of the citizens of this Towne, fpeciallie of the women, wer
abfent at other churches, hot the Magiftrats prefent gaue verie good
exemple to the reft. This good and peaceable beginning perfuadis wyfe
men that it will not be in the power of fum obftinat Puritanes any
longer to diuert any good Chriftians from embraceing this godlie and
reuerend inftitution. Of thir maters, and of the behauiour of the people
in the reft of the cuntrie, your Maieftie will heare farder from the
Bifchops, who ar attending their chairges in their feuerall Diocefes;
and if the Minifters do their dueties, according to the good exemple
begun in Edinburgh, I hope your Maieftie fall haue no neceffitie to vfe
authoritie or rigour, hot that God, who hes blefled all your Maiefties
godlie refolutions and juft commandements fall bring this holie diffein
to ane peaceable and wifhed perfection, and continow to ws the blef-
fingis which, be your Maiefties wyfe and religious gouernement, we haue
enioyed, in more accomplifhed and conftant meafure, nor any nation on
earth, fo long as He fall preferue your Maiefties health and lyfe, which
GOO ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G19.
1 earneitlie pray may be to the longcft period granted to any mortall
Your Maieities molt faithfull, obedient,
and bund feruant and fubiect,
BlNNING.
Edinburgh, 29 Mcrche [1619.]
To the Kinais molt (acred Maiellie.
CCCLXXIII.— HIS MAJESTY'S MISSIVE TO THE LORDS OF PRIVY
COUNCIL.
Riciit tniftic and richt weilbeloued Coufen and Counfallour, and
richt truftie and weilbeloued Counfallouris, We greite you weill. As
We cannot hot tak notice of the dewtifull obedience given be the molt
of you to Our direct ioun for your reuerent communicatting at the feaft
of Eafter laft, and gif von Our hairtie thankis for the fame, to haueing
vnderltood the dilbrdouris and infolent behauiour of a number of people
of Edinburgh, afweill in comeing frome thair owne Paftouris to other
churches to communicat, as in the wreitting and lpreading of infamous
lihellis agairtft thame, only for their dew obedience given by thame to
God and AYs, We haue [thocht] goode to recommend vnto you the tryall
and punifliment of thole offendaris, according as ye falbe enformed of
the particularis, and the lame heirefter notifeit vnto you; and in the
mean tyine, by proclamatioun, to publishe Oure lirme and conltant
refolutioun to haue thole Articleis concludit by the Church and ratified
by Ws receaved and reuerentlie oheyit by all our fubiectis, finee they
tend, as We are fufficicntlic perl'wadit, vnto the glorye of God, whole
honnour in thefe thingis we cheiflie fcik, and as We cannot hot bald
thame ennemies to God and Ws, who fchew thame felfis oj)pofite in
ony ways to this Our relblution. So quhofoever lalbe trycd, to wrcitt
1619.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 601
and fend about bookis, lybellis, and pamphlettis, eyther againft the Con-
clufioun taken by the Churche, or againft the Minifteris quho dewtifullie
haue [obeyit] the fame, or being wreittin and difperfit, fchall interteyne
[and contenance] thame, by keiping, reiding, and communicatting the
fame with vtheris, fhalbe called befoir Our Juftice, and according to Our
lawis [feveirlie punift, without] mercie or fauour to be fchewed to thame,
And this Our will [ye fchall pub]lifche, chargeing and commanding all
Our fubieclis, of what[foeuer rank] or degrie, to abfteine and forbear
fuch vnlawfull and [feditious practicing, and to conforme thame felffis to
the ordinances of the [Kirk, carying and behav]ing them felffis from
henceforth as becometh Chriftiane [and peccable fubiectis]. Which
affureing Our felff ye will cairfullie do, We bid you fairweill.
Givin at Our Mannour of Grenewich,
the [17thofMaij] 1619.1
CCCLXXrV.— THE BISHOP OF MURRAY TO HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES.
Most Sacked Soverane,
May it pleafe your moft gratious Majeftye : The Kirk of Keyth
being vacand fence the Bifchopp off Aberdein his tranfportatioun,2 it
requyreth nocht onlye a learnit man bot alio a paftor conforme in all
poynts to your Majefteis dire6tionis and A6tis concludit in the laft
Affemblye at Perth:3 I huinblye intreat your Majeftye, for your Hienes
1 Agreeably to the order contained in this letter, the Privy Council, at a meeting held
on the 1st of June 1G19, passed an Act ordering a Proclamation to be issued " for obey-
ing the Actis of the Generall Assemblie," held at Perth in August 1618. The Act,
as usual, repeats the words of the letter, and thus supplies a number of words in the
Register which are illegible.
2 Patrick Forbes of Corse, Minister of Keyth, in the shire of Murray, was translated
to the See of Aberdeen in May 1618. His successor was Dr Robert Baron, a learned
divine, who became in 1624 one of the Ministers of Aberdeen, and Professor of Theology
in the Marischal College.
3 At the General Assembly held at Perth, 25th August 1618.
4 G
G02 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1619.
letter to the Lord Vchiltree, nuho is Patrone, that he prefent no man
to me hot ane quho will conforrae him felff to thefe Articles. Another
letter to my felff* inhibiting me to admitt ony perfonc to that Kirk or
in iv vther within my clyocefe that reruns to conformc him felff to thefe
Articles. My Dyocel's is free yitt, and I lalbe carefull that non cum
within the famin vthervayes difpofed than your Majefty lies alwayes pre-
feryvit, quhilk falbe my conftant care to your Majefteis fervice and
obedience. Yit thir tuo letters will be a fufficient reaffone to refufe all
utheris contrary myndit. And thus humbly craiffing your Majefteis
pardon, that I fuld impeifche your Hienes more than ferious adois, I
earneftlye commend your Majefteis royall perfone, ftate, and royall pof-
teritye vnto the Lordis perpetuall mercye and favour for many happie
yeirs in this lyff and lait eternalye in heaven.
Your gratious Majefteis moil humill and affectionat fubiect
and loyall Servitour to death,
Al. B. off Moraye.
To the Kyng bis moft facred and excellent Majeftye.
CCCLXXV THE ARCHBISHOP OF ARMAGH1 TO THE LORD
CHANCELLOR OF SCOTLAND.
.Most Noble Lord,
The difconfolate eftate of a Frenche woman, bearer hereof, for-
faken by her huiband, John Hamilton, who left her in thefe parts (as
(he fayes) giues me occafion to call vpon your Lordfhip alfo to commife-
rate this po-orc diftrellit (traunger (for fo lhe is to me too), that, by your
1 Dr Christopher Hampton was one of throe English Doctors, who attended the Earl
of Dunbar, aa Bang's Commissioner at the General Assembly at Glasgow, in June 1G10 ;
and a aermon he preached on that occasion was printed. In 1013 he was advanced to
!"• Archbishop of Armagh, and died in L624.
1019.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 003
Lordihip's authoritie, fhe may regaigne her faid huiband and that meanes
which fhe had to fufteine them both. And fo, craving pardon for my
boldnes, I defire to be remembred in your prayers, to be eontinewed in
your loue, and to hue no longer then I remaine
Your Lordfhip's moll affectionate
to do you fervice,
Tredagh, 24 Maij 1019. Armache.
To the right Honorable and my verie
good Lord Alexander Earle of Dun-
fermeline, L. Chancellor of Scotland.
CCCLXXVI.— THE ARCHBISHOP OF GLASGOW TO THE LORD
CHANCELLOR OF SCOTLAND.1
RlCHT NOBLE AND MY MOST HONORABLE GU1D LoRD,
Johne Hamiltoun, fone natural! to Allane Hamiltoun of Fergus-
lie, being mareit in France with ane Frenfche woman, and menteanit be
hir fum yeiris bygane in Burdeaux lyk ane gentleman, hathe this yeir
entyfed and perfuadet hir to cum with him to Scotland : And as they
cam togider by Irland, within few dayis eftir thair arryvell thair, he did
forfaik hir vtirlie, and mariet him felff priuilie to ane Scottis woman,
dochtir to vmquhile Hercules Stewart. And quhan he did convoy him
felff and his new vnlawfull bryd furthe of Irland to this cuntrie, he
brocht with him grit foumis of money, with tua grit coffirris full of
filkis, fateinis, and veluette ; quhilk all he reflauit of the faid Frenfche
woman, his laufull wyff, quhome he left in that flrange cuntrie defolat
1 The Chancellor has indorsed the letter, " L. Archiebischioppe oft' Glasgow, concerning
Johne Hamiltoun and his twa wyuis, etc." There is no mention of him in the brief
account of the family, a branch of the Hamiltons of Orbieston, in Anderson's House of
Hamilton, p. 283.
604 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATIXG [1619.
and deftitute of all meanis and contort, except fuch as felio reffauit be
the liberalitie and cheritie of fum Scottifch and Englifche tliair. Scho
is now cum to Glafgow; and qnhen I was informit be bir that the cof-
firria war brocht vnto Paiflay, I writ in bir fauouris, and eftir fum
fearche and tryell thay ar fund in the hous of the faid Allane Hamil-
tonn bis father, qubair, as I dircctit, their lokis ar feallit with wax, to
be keipit vntill fum ordour may be takin, baitbe for punifebing of him
quho lies done fo vickedlie, and for reftoiring of hir to that quhilk be
hathe maift diffaitfullie ftollin from hir. Scho reftis yit, for all this, in
grit fear that the faidis coffirris, or the money and fluff within thame,
falbe takin away be bimfelff, his father, or freindis, and that febo fall
find no remeidie for the grit wrangis done vnto hir. I thocht it guid,
thairfoir, to gif your Lordfchip noteis of thais tbingis, and earneiilie to
requeifl your Lordfchip in fawouris of the puir miferable ftranger, that
fum ordour may be takin at leift bow fcho may be reftoirit to the founds
of money and guidis quhicb be hetbe in this maner flollin from hir.
And becaus he hathe comittit thir grit finnis, and thairby done grit dif-
credeit to all our Xatioun, that he may be apprebendit, tryet, and
punifchit for the famen. He will, as appeiris, now feik be all meanis to
efcape, and the puir woman hathe no meanis heir to leiff be hot fuch as
is beftowit vpoun hir of pietie. In regaird qubairof I will befcik your
Lordfchip agane to haiftin your direetiounis, quhilk fal be obeyit, fo far
as I may or fould.1 And I am fuir my Lord and Ladie Abircornis wil
1 Among the warrants of Privy Council, there are various other papers preserved
" anent John Hamilton ami his twa wyffis." The name of the first was " Jaqueline
tie Quellye, Fransche woman;" the other, Margaret Stewart, daughter of Hercules
Stewart. The coffers containing the money and stuff mentioned in the above letter
were examined, an inventory taken, and they were sent, along with Hamilton himself,
to Edinburgh, in the month of August.
Margaret, wife of John Hamilton, was served heir of her father Hercules Stewart,
brother of Francis late Earl of Bothwell, 13th April 1636. Hercules Stewart was the
natural son of Lord John Stewart, Commendator of Coldingham, whose legitimate son
Francis was created Earl of Bothwell, in 1587, after the title had become extinct by the
death and forfeiture of his uncle James Hepburne, Karl of Bothwell. Hercules Stewart,
•' the base brother" of Earl Francis, was banged at Edinburgh for treasonable practices,
18th February 1594-5. — (Calderwood's History, vol. v. p. 304.)
1619.]
TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS.
605
fie your Lordfehipis will done fua foone as they fall knaw of it, and
reffaue your Lordfehipis warrand. Referring all, efter this informa-
tioun, to your Lordfehipis awin wifdome, and comending your Lord-
fchip to the fauour and bliffing of God, I reft,
Tour Lordfehipis allured in all dewtie to honour
and feme vow,
Ja. Glasgow.
Glafgow, this xi of Junij 1G19.
To the richt noble, and his maift honorabill
guid Lord, my Lord Earle of Dunferme-
ling, Chancellar of Scotland, thefe.
CCCLXXVIL— ACT OF PRIVY COUNCIL, AND MISSIVE FROM HIS
MAJESTY TO THE COUNCIL.
Apud Halyrudhouse, decimo septimo Junij 1619.
Sederunt.
Chancellair.
lotheane.
Melros.
Lauderdaill.
Maxuell.
l. gordoun.
Carnegy.
MR of Elpuingstoun.
Previe Seall.
Thesaurair Depute.
Justice Clerk.
Clerk of Register.
Aduocat.
Mediiop.
Me P. Rollok.
Sir Andro Kerr.
Sir Peter Young.
Charge against Mr Johnne Hall and Mr Peter Hewatt.
Forfameikle as the Kingis Maieftie reffaueis claylie aduerteifmentis
of the infolenceis growing amangis the people of Edinburgh, quhilk can
not be vtherwayes bot that they ar fteired vp to this wnrewlie behaviour
600 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1019.
by fome perfonia within the (aid burgh, amangis whome his Maieftie lia.s
juit cans to l'liljicct the tuo Minifteris, Maifter Peter Hewatt, quho wcs
depiyveit of his Miuiftrie at his Maiefteis laft being in Scotland, and,
nevirtheles, in contempt of his Maieftie and the fentence jnftlie pro-
nunceit againes him, lies beine Once that tyme intertenyed be the Towne
of Edinburgh as thair Minifter; and Mr Johnne Hall, who hes laitlie
dimitted his Miniftrie vnder pretence of his aige and infirmitie. Thair-
foir the Kingis Maieftie, with advyfe of the Lordis of Secreit Counfell,
( )rdanis letters to be direct, chargeing the faidis Mr Johnne Hall and
Mr Peter I [ewatt to remone and depart fra thes plaiceis quhair they now
dwell and remaine, and to addreffe thame felffis to the plaiceis following,
viz., The laid Mr Johnne Hall to the burgh of Monrois, and the laid Mr
Peter to Croceragnell, within xlviij. houris nixt efter the faid charge,
and that they remaine and keip waird thair quhill thay be laughfnllie
fred and releiyeit, as they will anfuer to his Maieftie and his Connfaill
vpoun thair obedience.
Followis his Maiesteis Missiue Letter for warrant of the Act
abouc written.
RtCHT truftie and right weilbeloned Confens and Counfallonris, and
right truftie and weilbeloued Counfallonris, Wee greit yow Weill.
Whairas we receauc daylie adverteifmentis of the infolenceis growing
amongft that people of Edinburgh, and that it can nocht be other-
wyfe, but they ar fteired vp to this vnrewlie behauiour by fome fyre-
brandifi thair. amongft quhomc we have juft cans to fulpect the tuo
Minifteris, Mr Peter Hewarte (who wes depryvet of his Minii'trie at
Our lafl being in Scotland, and neuirtheles [in contempt] of AVs and
the fentence jnftlie pronunced againft him, hath been Once that tyme
interteneyd by the Towne of Edinburgh as thair minifter), and Maiiter
Johnne Hall, who haith laitlie dimitted his Miniftrie vnder pretence off
his aige and infirmitie. It is Our pleafour that yow command thame
to keip waird; the lait of thame, to witt Mr Johnne Hall, in the tonne
of Montroffe, and Mr Peter Hewarte in Croceragnell, and that thev
depairt oute of the boundia where now thay [dwell] within fortie
1619.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 607
eight houris efter the intimatioun of this prefent, vncler the pane of
diflbhedience. Which affureing Our felff ye will dewlie performe, We bid
yow fairweill.
Grivin at Our Mannour of Grenewich, the 12th of Junij 1619.
CCCLXXVIIL— THE EARL OF MELEOS1 TO HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES.
Most Sacred Souerane,
Your Maiefties letters of the twelt of June comming to my hands
in the Counfall houfe at Halyrudhous yefterday : So foone as by read-
ing that fent to my felf I knew your Royall pleafour anent fearche to be
made in the Printers and Bookfellars boothes and houfes, for printing
irnis and all vther meanes fit for difcouerie of the Authors, Printers,
and difperfers of the malicious libell againft the Affemblie at Perth,2 I
caufed Sir Andro Ker read your Maiefties letter to him, and prefentlie
enter to the accomplilhment of the whole directions thereof, with all
poffible diligence and fecrecie. He deuided his companie according to
the number of the Printers and Bookfellers named in your Maiefties
letter, and at one time feafed upon all their houfes and boothes, and
made exa6t fearche of all that was theirin by himfelf, and ane number of
the truftieft that he could adioyne, and not being able to owtred lb large
a tafk that night, he lokked the durres of all the houfes whair they had
either bookes, papers, or carecters. And where he fand the houfes
oppen and vnfure, he left hire watches in them all the night till this
morning that he profecuted his fearche, and has found no thing concern-
1 Sir Thomas Hamilton, Lord Binning, Secretary of State and President of the Court of
Session, -was created Earl of Melros in March 1619. This title, in 1G27, was suppressed,
when he was created Earl of Haddington.
2 The anonymous work, under the title " Perth Assembly : &c. M.DC.XIX." 4to,
pp. [vi.] & 101, which excited so much displeasure, was written by David Calderwood,
and was printed in Holland. It argued the Nullity of the Assembly and its proceedings
in no very gentle terms ; and after a lapse of two years, it was answered by Dr Lyndesay,
Bishop of Brechin : see note 1, p. 571.
608 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1619.
ing the bufines injoyned to him. Andro Hart being examined by Sir
Andro Ker and me, denyes all upon his parrell. Sir Andro has the like
affurance from Richart Laufon. James Cathkin is at London,1 where
he may be examined. Thomas Finlafon fweares he never faw any of
the pamphlets till this morning that I deliuered one to him, to try by it
the confonnitie of any caracters knowne to him ; and, efter timelie con-
fideration, he l'ayes, that in his opinion it fall not be found to be printed
in this eonntrie; but that he fufpeets one Richard Skilders, dwelling at
Middleburgh/ who vies to print all fort of bookes brought to him, he
not being fubieet to anie privilege, or comptrolled by his fuperiours for
anie mater that concernes not their owne eflate. This man had two
fonnes who banted London, and ar perfect, of the Englifh tongue. He
faies alfo, that our Bookfellers have frequent handling with Skilders, and
receaue manic bookes from him. The other particulars concerning this
bufines I haue writtin to my Lord of Santandrois, who will informe your
Maieftie thereof.
Your Maieflies direction concerning Maifter John Hall and Mr Peter
Hewat is obeied by the Counfell, and promifed to be obeied by the
parties with diligence. Sir James Skene is charged to be before the
Counfell vpon Tyfday nixt.
Our Merchants regreat heavelie the hard vfage they find at Elfinure,
and particularhe that the King of Denmark's officers feafes vpon all the
gunpowder that oure people bring for the ufe of this eonntrie from the
Ivili er Peas, and when they have giuen up thair cocket and entrie and
payed their cuftome, the officers commands them to bring their pow-
der to land, weyes it with their weghts, puts it in the King's magafin,
and without refpect of oure inert-hands pryce of buyeing, chairges, and
' James Cathkin, Bookseller in Edinburgh, on several occasions exhibited great zeal
on behalf of presbytery : See notes in the Bannatyne Miscellany, vol. i. pp. 200-215.
At the period when this letter was written he hail gone to London in the course of his
business. After his arrival, on the 12th of June, he was examined by the King at
Greenwich, in the presence of the Archbishop of St Andrews and other courtiers, of
which a verj graphic relation is printed in the Bannatyne Miscellany, vol. i. p. l'.)9-215.
- Richard Schilders, " Printer to the States of Zealand." Several Puritan and other
English controversial tracts, which could not be licensed in this country, were printed
by him at Middleburgh in L588 and subsequent years.
1619.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 609
hafard, giues to them the King's price, and then forces them to wryte
in a regifler kept of purpofe that they haue willinglie fold and receiued
thankfull paiment for their wares. If your Maieftie be pleafed to
recommend to the King your brother thir honeft men, defiring that
their commerce may be free and fauorable in his dominions, they hope
that it will procure to them releif of thir rigours and harmes.
The Laird of Drum hes promifed, if Sir William Irwing cum to this
cuntrie, that vpon warning he fall alfo cum to this towne, and keep
all condicions honeftlie and freindlie, the lik being done to him. So
befeeching God long and happelie to prolong your Maiefties lyfe,
health, and contentment, I reft
Your Maiefties moft humble, faithfull,
and bund fubiecl; and feruant,
Edinburgh, 18 June [1619.] Melros.
To the King's moft Sacred Maieftie,
CCCLXXIX.— ACTS OF PRIVY COUNCIL, IN JUNE 1619.
Apud Halyrudhous, decimo septimo Junij 1619.
Sederunt. — [See page 605.]
Forsameikle as althocht the Kingis Maieftie, be his letters
diredtit to the Lordis of his Maiefties Previe Counfall and Seffion, willed
thame to haue reffaueit the Communion at Eafter laft, with all dew reve-
rence, efter the maner prefcryued be the ordouris and a6lis of the laft
Generall Affemblie of the Kirk haldin at Perthe, vnder the pane to be
depoifed from thair placeis in his Maiefteis Counfall and Seffioun, and
that, accordinglie, Sir James Skeene of Curryhill wes aduertefit to haue
communicat with the reft of his Majefteis Counfall and Seffioun, neuir-
theles, his Maieftie is crediblie informed that he not only abfentit him
4 H
610
ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING
[1G19.
felff froruc Edinburgh at that tynic, bot to the gritter contempt of his
Maieftie and his authoritie, lie tooke the Communioun in ane vtlit p
Kirk, and eftir ane vther forme than wes prefcryued be the Actis of
the laid Affemblie, and conformed be his Maieftie. And quhairas hi*
Maieftie fchinkis it ane vnworthie pairt in ane to fit as a Judge vnder
his Maieftie, who by his awne good example will not leade the way of
dewtyfull obedience vnto otheris, Thairfoir the Lords of Secreit Coun-
fall, according to his Maiefteis dire&ioun, ordanis ane meflenger to pas
and warne the faid Sir James to compeir perfonallie befoir the faidis
Lordis vpoun the twentie tua day of Junij inftant, to anfuer to the pre-
miiTes, and to hear and fie the fame verifeit and provin, as accordis of the
law : And thairfoir, to heir and fie him fufpendit from his place in his
Maiefteis Counfall and Seffionn till his Maiefteis farder pleafour Ik
knowin ; or ellis to fchaw ane reaffonabill caus quhy the famin fonld not
be done, with certificatioun to him, and he failzie, the faidis Lordis will
fufpend in maiier foirfaid.
Apud Halyrudhous, vigesimo secundo Junij 1G19.
Sederunt —
Chancellair.
Wyntoun.
lothiane.
Meleos.
Laudekdaii.i,.
Cajinegy.
M" of Elpiiixgstoun.
PrECTE SEALE.
Thesaukair Depute.
Clerk op Regr.
Aduocat.
KlLSATTHE.
Bruntylland.
Mediiop.
Beidhots.
ixnerteill.
CURRIEUELL.
EOSTERSATE.
MR P. BOLLOK.
Merchinstoi x.
Sir Andro Keh.
Sir Peter Young.
coxservatocb.
Forsameikle as althoght the Kingis Majeftie, be his letters
directit to the Lordis of his Majefteis Preuie Counfall and Seffioun,
willed thame to have reffauit the Communioun at Eafter laft, &c.'
1 Tlio same words arc here repeated .is in the previous extract of the 17th June. After
the words "suspend in maner forsaid," at line 10, it proceeds, as on the next pair'.
•' I.vkcas." &c. — Among the Wigton Papers (Maitland Miscellany, vol. ii. p. 400) is
printed one of the missive letters referred to. It is dated in March 1619, and addressed
1619.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 611
Suspend in maner forsaid, Lykeas as at mair lenth is contenit in
the faid charge, executione, and indorfatione thairof, Quhilk being
callit, and Sir William Oliphant of Newtoun knyght, his Maiefteis
Aduocat, compeirand perfonallie for his Maiefteis entrefie, and the faid
Sir James Skene being lykewyfe perfonallie prefent, it wes anfuerit be
the faid Sir James, that his not communicating at Eafter day laft pro-
ceidit not vpoun contempt or diffobedyence, bot vpon the occafioun fol-
lowing, to witt, that that haill weike he wes Ordinal' in the Vtter Houfe,
and Reporter, and that vpoun Satterday, quhilk wes the day for the
fermone of preparatione, his turne fell to be examinatour of the witneffes,
and that he wes commandit and appoyntit to attend the lame, quhair-
vpoun he awaittit frome tua of the clock till fax of the cloke at nicht,
and being thairby diftraclit frome the fervice of preparatioun, he could
not be prepairit to communicat vpoun the morne thairefter ; and tuitch-
ing his going to ane vther Kirk to communicat, he flatlie denvit the
fame, affermeing conftantlie that he keipt his houfe that foirnoone, and
that he come to the afternoones fermone, and that he fatt in the ordinar
plaice with the remanent Lordis of the Seffioun : With the quhilk
anfuer the faidis Lordis being fatiffeit, Thay ordaine ane miffive letter
to be wreittin to his Maiellie, acquenting his Maieftie with the faid Sir
James his anfuer in the mater foirfaid.
Followis the Counsallis Letter to his Majestie.1
CCCLXXX — THE LOKDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL TO HIS MAJESTY
KING JAMES.
Most Sacked Souerane,
According to youre Maiefteis dire&ioun, we callit Sir James
to John Lord Fleming, requiring him to be at Edinburgh " upoun Pashe day, to convene
at the Heich Kirk of Edinburgh, and thair to ressaue the Communioun after the maner
prescryvit by the ordoure and actis of the last Generall Assemblie," &c.
1 A copy of the letter, here printed from the original (as No. 380), is inserted in the
Register, omitting the names of the Lords of Privy Council by whom it is signed.
612 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1619.
Skene of Ourriehill befoir ws, and verie ltraitlie layed to his charge his
diffobedience of youre Maiefteis command and direclioun, in not com-
municating with the reft of youre Maiefteis Counfell and Seffioun, in the
Kirk of Edinburgh, at Eafter laft, and for going to ane other Kirk, and
reffaueing the Communioun after ane other forme then wes prefcryued
be the Actis of tlic laft Generall Affemblie haldin at Perthe ; and we
vrgeit him to cleir himfelff of thir pointis, vpoun the parrell to be fuf-
pendit frome bis place in Counfell and Seffioun. After that he bad
vtterit bis greiff and forrow for your Maiefteis offence tane aganis him
in this particulair, quhairof be pleadit innocent, with mony protcftationis
that bis bairt wes free frome all contempt or diffobedience of youre
Maieftie, and that, in finceritie of moft loyall and dewtifull fubieclioun,
he bad ever preaft to approve him felff youre Maiefteis faithful] and
obedient l'ubicct, he then come to his defence aganis the lybell : And
tuicheing the firft point tbairof, for not communicating at Eafter, he
anfuerit, that that baill weeke be wes Ordinair in the Vtter Houfe,
and Reportair, and that vpoun Satterday, qubilk wes the day for the
fermone of preparatioun, bis turne fell to be examinatour of the wit-
in ffis, and that he wes fpeciallie commandit and appoyntit to attend
the fame, qubairvpoun he awaited frome twa of the cloke till fax of
tlie cloke at night; and being thairby neceffarlie diftraclit frome the
fermone of preparatioun, be could not be prepairit to communicat
vpoun the morne thairefter : And tuicheing his going to ane other
Kirk to communicat, be flatlie denyit the fame, affermeing conftantlie,
that be keipt bis houfe that foirnoone, and that he come to the after-
noones fermone, and fatt in the ordinair place with the reft of the Lordis
of the Seffioun ; quhilkis tua pointis, to witt, of bis examinatioun of the
witneffes vpoun Eafter evin, and comeing to the afternoones fermone
vpoun Eafter day, we can all teftifie to be of trewtbe ; and lb finding
no vcrificatioun of the informatioun gevin to youre Maieftie in this
mater, we could proceid no forder thairintill, bot bes remittit the fame
to youre Maiefteis princelie confideratioun, humblie befeekeing youre
Maieftie not to tak in evill pairt the faid Sir James his not communi-
catting the day foirfaid, quhilk proceidit not vpoun wilfull contempt or
diffobedience, bot vpoun the iufl and oeceffair occafioun foirfaid; and
1619.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 613
we perfwade oure felffis, that as he wil be cairfull to efhew all occafionis
quhilkis may procure youre Maiefteis iuft caus of wraithe and offence
againis him, lb he will haif the lyke cair to approue him felff youre
Maiefteis faithfull and goode fubiecl. And fo, with oure humble and
earnift prayers vnto God for youre Maiefties lang and happie reignne,
we reft
Your Maiefties moft humble and obedyent
fubieclis and feruitouris,
Al. CanceliA
LoTHIANE. MeLROS.
S. W. Oliphant. George Hay.
KlLSAYTH. CARNEGY.
A. Hay. A. M. Elphinston.
Halirudhous, xxiiij Junij 1619.
To the King his moft facred and excellent
Maieftie.
CCCLXXXI.— HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE LORDS OF PRIVY
COUNCIL.
[James R.]
Ryght truftie and right weilbeloueit Coufens and Counfallouris,
and right truftie and weilbelouit Counfallouris, We greit yow weill.
We haue receiued your letters of the four and twentieth of the laft
moneth, wherby We vnderftoode your proceidingis with Sir James
Skeine, and his anfueris to fuche poyntis as wer layde to his charge,
and We thoght vpoun the firft informatioun maid to ws, We haid verie
good caus of fufpitioun and pregnant prefumptioun againft him; yett
are We glaid by your reporte to vnderftand the treuthe of his behaviour
614
ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING
[1619.
in that poynte ; and as ye have in pairt fatilTeit Ws, fo the only mcane
for him to gif Ws full fatiffariioun, and caus Ws reteine a goode
oppinioun of him is, if he fall with all expeditioun, at any plaice quhair
the Communioun fall firft be celebrated, receave the fame kneilling ;
and not doubting bot in the mean tyme he will approve his conformitie
to the conititutioiiis in all vthcr poyntis, We bid yow fairweill.
Givin at Our Caftle of Windefoir, the fixt of Julij 1619.
CCCLXXXH.-
-ACT OF PRIVY COUNCIL, AXD MISSIVE FKOM HIS
MAJESTY TO THE COUNCIL.
Apud Halyrudhous, deeimo quinto Julij, 1619.
Sederunt —
CllANCKLLAlR.
TllESAURAlR.
Wyxtoux.
lotheane.
Melhds.
B. Ross.
I.ai di:k1)aii.i..
L. Erskexe.
Cranstoux.
Carxegy.
MR of Elphixgstoux.
Predie Seal.
Thesaurair Depute.
Justice Clerk.
Clerk of Register.
Aduocat.
Kilsaythe.
Bruxtylaxd.
Ixxerteill.
Mr P. ROLLOK.
Sir Axdro Ker.
Sir P. Young.
Conseruatour.
Proclamation arjanis the hook called Perthe Assemblic.
Forsamkiivle as thaii is a feditious libell and booke wreittin and
fett mite in prente aganis the proceidingis of the late Generall Affem-
blie of the Kirk haldin at Perthe in the moneth of Augull Lift, the
authouris and wreittaris of the quhilk book has difperft the fame
amongifi his Maiefteis fubieclis in this Kyngdome, pnrpoiflie to divert
1 This letter, in the Privy Council Register (fol. 176), is inserted in the middle of
the Minute of 22 Junij 1G19, with the title " Followis His Maiesteis Letter to the
Counsall ancnt the matter aboue written," although the letter itself could not have been
received bj the Council for nearly three weeks subsequent to the date of the next
Minute, the 2 Ith of June.
1619.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. G15
thame from his Maiefteis obedience, to intertenye diffcenfioun in the
Kirk, and to fofter in the hairtis of the fimple and ignorant multitude
fome unifier oppinioun of the finceritie of his Maiefteis difpofitioun in
matteris of religioun. And whereas the wreitting and difperfing of all
fuch infamous libellis, bookis, and pamphlettis tending to the mifcon-
ftructing of his Maiefteis proceidingis is condamnit be the lawis of this
Kingdome, and the authouris and wreittaris thairof declairit to be fedi-
tious and wicked perfonis, enemyis to the Kingis Maieftie and the
Commonweill of this realme : Thairfoir the Lordis of Secreit Counfall
ordanis letters to be direcl to command and charge all and findrie per-
fones, hauearis off the faid infamous lybell and booke, be oppin proclama-
tioun' at the Mercat Croces of Edinburgh, St Androis, Glafgw, and
utheris plaices neidfull, That thay and euery ane of thame bring and
delyuer the fame bookis to the Clerk of his Maiefteis Counfall, betuix
the date heirof and the xxvij day of Julij inftant, to the effect he may
prefent thame to his Maiefteis Counfall, and that ordour may be tane
with thame as his Maieftie hes commandit and dire&it ; certifieing all
and findrie perfones quho hes ony of the faidis bookis, and will not
bring in and delyuer the fame in maner foirfaid, or in quhais handis
and keiping ony of the faidis bookis falbe deprehendit or challengit
after the faid xxvij day of Julij inftant, That thay falbe repute haldin
and eftemed as factious and feditious perfones ; and thay falbe callit,
perfecuit, and punift as interteyneris of feditioune in the Eftate, without
fauour or mercye.
Followis his Maiesteis Missive for Warrand of the Act above
wreitten.
[James R.]
Right truftie and right weilbeloued Coufenis and Counfallouris, and
right truftie and weilbelouit Counfallouris, We greite you weill ; Whereas
a feditious libell wreitten againft the Lift Affemblie at Perth hath beine
difperfed in that Our Kingdome, to diuert Our goode fubie6tis frame
Oure obedience, and enterteyne diffcenfioun in the Churche, it is Our
pleafour that ye caus diligent fearche be made for all the copyis of the
GIG ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1619.
laid libell, and by oppin proclamatioun charge all the hauearis of the
fame to delyuer thame to the Clerk of Our Counfall befoir a certane
day to be appoynted by yow, with certificatioun that the reteynearis
and keiparifl thairof, after the day appoynted, falbe called and punifched
as interteyners of feditioun : And fo foone as the bookis falbe gottin in,
ye fall cans buxne thame oppinlie at the Croce of Our burgh of Edin-
brugh ; and not doubting of your readdy conformitie to Our pleafure in
this poynte, Wee bid yow fairweill.
Given at our Caftle of Windefor, the vijth of Julij 1G19.
CCCLXXXIII.— THE BISHOP OF MURRAY TO KING JAMES.
Sacket Souerane,
May it pleis your moift Excellent Maieftie : It was your Maief-
teis good plefur, about tuentie yeiris bygone, to haue difponit to the
Toun of Elgene the patronage and preceptorie of Mafindew befyd
Elgene, with the rentis thairoff, ffor fuftening of ane Hofpitall and ane
Maifter of ane Mufik Scholl within that toun. Aganes the quhilk oppo-
fitioun lies bene maid thir thrie or four yeiris bypaft, be your Maiefteis
Aduocat, quhill now, that the mater hauing bene fufficientlie tryit, it is
fund to haue bene beftowit to ane good and godly ufe ; and thairfoir,
now your Maiefteis Thefaurer and Aduocat ar content to fuffer your
Maiefteis firft gift to haue place, prouyding your Maieftie will giue ane
new warrand to the Commiffioners for your Maiefteis rentis in Scotland
to renew the famyn gift : Qhairanent I moift humblie intreat vour Mai-
eftie, becaufl the lamyn is to be imployit to iuche ane religious ufe ; ffor
they of the Hofpitall will pray for your Maiefteis good helthe, and in
the Mufick Scholl thankis falbe givin to God for your Maiefteis prefer-
oatioun. Forder, incace your Maieftie lies bene utherwavis informit of
any difobedience to your Maiefteis lawis and Actis of the laft Generall
Aftemblie be the Minifteris within the Diocie of Murray, I thocht
good t « » fchaw your Maieftie that without exceptioun they haue all
1619.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 617
giuin obedience at this laft Eafter, the lyk quhairof, I think, your Mai-
eftie fall not find in all this Kingdome ; and as for my cair in that
mater, I caufit my haill parochineris of Elgene, quhair I mak refidence,
receaue thair Communioun kneilling upone Eafter day bygane a yeir.
Swa the mater being of fmall importance, we all luik for your Maiefteis
princelie fauour. And thus, my humble prayeris inftantlie and conti-
nually imployit for mony contentit yeiris in this lyff, and for that eter-
nall in the heuines, I humblie tak my leiue.
Your Maiefteis moft humel and affectionat
fervitour to death,
Al. B. off Murraye.
Edinbrughe, the xxv. of Julij 1619.
To the King his moft Excellent Maieftie.
CCCLXXXIV.— ACT OF PRIVY COUNCIL, AND MISSIVE FROM HIS
MAJESTY TO THE COUNCIL.
Apud Halyrudhous, duodecimo die mensis August 1619.
Maister Johnne Hall releuit of his wardefra Montrois to Perthe.
The Lordis of Secreit Counfaill, according to ane warrand and
directioun in wreit figned be the Kingis Maieftie, and this day prefented
vnto thame, freithis and releivis Maifter Johnne Hall frome his waird
within the burgh of Monrois, quhairin he wes confyned be his Maiefteis
command ; and commandis and ordainis him to repair and mak his
addreffe to the burgh of Perthe, and thairin to remaine, and within
the fpeace of tua myllis thairabout, and not to exceid the limittis
thairof vntill his Maieftie falbe pleafed by his fpeciall warrand to reftoir
him to his inteir libertie, as he will anfuer vpoun the contrary at his
perrell.
4i
618 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G19.
The Kingis Maicsteis Missive for the warrand of the Act.
about wreittin.
[James R.]
Right truiftic and right weilbeloued Coufenis and Counfallouris,
We greit yow weill. Whereas by Our former direclioun fent vnto yow,
Maifter Johnne Hall wes commandit to be confynned in the toun of
Montrofle. we ar weill pleafed, at the earneft fute of the Archbifchop of
St Androis, to alter the plaice of his faid reftraint, and thairfoir ye fall
gif ordour that inftead of Montrofle he fall repair to our burgh of Perth,
thair to remaine, and not exceid the limittis of fuche fpeace about the
fame as ye fall think convenient till We falbe pleafed by Our fpeciall
warrant to reftoir him to his intire libertie ; and not doubting of your
moft ready obedience to this our pleafour, We bid yow fairweill.
Givin at Our Court of Beauuoir Caftle the fyeifth of Auguft 1619.
CCCLXXXV.— ACT OF PRIVY COUNCIL.
Apud Halyrudhouse, Vicesimo septimo die mensis Octobris 1619.
Ane Act and warrand for burning the Booke entitided Perthe Assemblie.
Forsameikle as thair is a feditious libell and booke wreittin and
[alfo] in prent aganis the Proceidingis of the late Generall Afl'emblie of
the Kirk haldin at Perthe in the moneth of Auguft 1618: The authoris
and wreittaris of the cjuhilk Book lies difperft the fame amongifl his
Maiefties fubiectis, purpoiflie to diuert thame from his Maieftek obedi-
ence to interteny diflenfloun in the Kirk. And wheras the [wreitting
and] difperfing of fuche infamous libellis, bookis, and pamphlettis [to
the mii'mformatioun] of his Maielleis proceiebngis is condemnit be the
Lawis of this Kingdoine, and the authouris and wreittaris thairof declared
to be feditious and wicked perfonis, enemyis to the Kingis Maieltie ami
the commonweale of this realme, Thairfoir the Lordis of Secreit Coun-
i'aill ordanifi and commandia the Prouefl and Bailleis of EcUnburgh to
1619.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 619
caus burn fa mony of the faidis infamous libellis, bookes, and pampk-
lettis as falbe delyvered vnto thame be the right reuerend father in
God Johnne Archbifchop of St Androis, or as fall otherwayis come in
thair handis, and that publictlie and oppinlie at the Mercat Croce of
Edinburgh. For doing quhairof thir prefentis falbe vnto thame warrand.
CCCLXXXVI.— MR JOHN WELSH, MINISTER IN FRANCE, TO
MR ROBERT BRUCE.
Right Reverend and deirly belotjed Brother,
I wold not let this occafion pas to wryte to yow by this bearer,
your kinfman, whofe comportment in this countrie hath always been
with honour, giving teftimonies of true religion and godlines in the
places of his fojourn, which for fome time was with me. The Nullitie
of the Affemblie at Perth being fent to me, hath taken all pretext of
ignorance and excufes away, and I judge them bleffed who, in a defer-
tion fo univerfall, keeps their garments cleane, without fpott ; of the
which, Sir, ye are one, whofe teflimonie to the trueth, and againft the
defection brought in, is knowen to all the Churches. The perfecution
there is lamentable ; but, without all queftion, when the chaffe is dif-
covered, He will not let the rod of the wicked remaine for ever upon
the backe of the righteous. It is noe mervaile if, after fo long a peace,
fo great a libertie, and the puiffance of the Gofpell in fuch abundance,
at the laft He fend the fyrie triell. What my mind is concerning the
roote of thir branches, the bearer will fhew yow more fullie. They are
noe more to be accounted Orthodoxes, but Apoftats : They have fallen
from their callings, by receiving Antichriftianes, and bringing in of ido-
latrie, to make the Kingdome culpable, and to expofe it to judgments
fearfull for fuche a highe perfidie againft an Oath fo folemnlie exacted
and given ; and are noe more to be counted Christians, but ftrangers,
and apoftats, and perfecutors, and therefore not to be heard anie more,
neither in publict, nor in Confiftories, Colledges, nor Synods ; for what
fellowship hath light witli darknefs ! So, with the meafure the Lord
620 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1610.
hath given, I recommend yow to His fufficient grace, and your whole
familie.
Your loving Brother, and unworthy to be called
the Servant of Chrift,
From Sl Jean [d'Angeli] this MR Johne "Welsh.
20th of [November ?] 1619.
CCCLXXXVIL— HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE ARCHBISHOP OF
ST ANDREWS.'
[James R.]
Having heard of your meeting the 23d of November, I have
fent Our truftie feruant, the Lord of Scoone, to fignitie Our pleflbur
more fullie unto you, and to certifie Us againe of your proceedings
heirin. And I doe command you, as you will be anl'weirable to Ws,
that ye depofe all thofe that refufe to conforme, without refpect of per-
fons, no ways regarding the multitude of the rebellious ; for if there be
not a fufficient number remaining to fill their places, I will fend you
Minifters out of England. And I charge you to certifie Us of your
proceidings betuixt this and the third of March next to come.
[Given at, &c]
1 Spottiswood, in his History, has taken no notice of the Conference at St Andrews,
of the Bishops and Ministers, on the 23d, 24th, and 25th of November 1G19 ; but
Calderwood has preserved a detailed and interesting account of what took place, when
the above letter was presented by Lord Scoone. Spottiswood, at a Diocesan Synod, held
at Edinburgh in October, is reported to have said, " I will appoint a meeting to hold the
'-'.'id of November at St Androis, where my brethren the Bishops sail be present. I sail
send lor such Ministers as refuse to conforme. We sail sie what reasons they have.
Either we sail putt them out of Scotland, or they sail putt us out. It were better that
both they and we were hangit {hcarc the offlame!) or the Gospell decayed," &c. — [His-
tory, vol. vii. pp. 395, 397-408.)
1620.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 621
CCCLXXXVm— ME JOHN HUME TO MR JOHN ADAMSON, MINISTER
OF LIBBERTON.
Sire,
I have iinbraced this occafion, bothe to fulfill my owen promife,
and alfo to taike away all maltter of excufe, quiche might hinder yow
from keiping of yours, quiche was mutuale. Maifter Melvine' was moved
with the newes yee fend by Monfieur Durie, and is follift of the event of
that Conference or Affemblie quiche is to be in Mairche,2 concerning Mr
William Scote and Mr Johne Carmichell, and prayes hairtfullye that
God maye afiift them. And thairfore wolde wiUinglye, as foon as ye
can heire any thing of them, know quhat bathe bein doone in it. He is
alfo no lefle follilt for yow, and whiles yee may be warrie and taike goode
heade of perfonnes ; and alinoft evrie daye maiketh mention of yow.
Yee, he fayethe to me, he did of purpofe be fwmquhat thraffe and harde to
yow, becaufe he thoght opus esse tibi in hac causa frceno, et non calcari ;
as alfo he did not apprehend things in the full meafure as he doeth now,
nor could he have perfuaded himfelf that men was going on fo farr as
he feethe plainlye now by diligent waying of the King's booke,3 quiche
he taikes no ofter in his handes but as oft he is forced to burfte foorthe
in teares, feing the craftie convoye of vylde calumnies againft the fer-
vantes of God, the firft Reformeirs of religion, and thofe that bathe bein
fince. Maire he begins now to doubte of Corfe's4 courfes after the feeing
of all thire things, that he fould have taiken him to that fyde, and
fayethe oft to me, that if he had yow now befyde him he wold be more
1 Mr Andrew Melvine or Melville, of whose biography the important work by the late
Dr M'Crie, is well known. Melville, during his latter years, resided at Sedan as Pro-
fessor of Theology, and died there in 1622, aged 77.
2 There was a Conference held at St Andrews in November 1619, betwixt the Bishops
and Ministers : William Seott of Cupar, John Carmichael of Kinneuchar, and David
Mearns of Carnebie, were the three Ministers selected on this occasion — See the pre-
ceding Letter, and note, and also Calderwood's History, vol. vii. p. 397, &c.
3 The Basilicon Doron, by King James.
4 Patrick Forbes of Corse, Bishop of Aberdeen.
022 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G20.
free with yow then he wes, for then he thoght not that things war cume
to fuche cxtreinitic. Concerning his healthe, it is fuche as yee know
yee rather wors then better, and for any thing (of his Writes I mean)
that yee willed me to have a eaire of and gett from him, I have litle
hoipe. Yee hade experience of his humour, and he is It ill the fame man,
fufpicious of his bookes, and will not fuffer a man to goe amongft them.
I fall doe quhat I can to come be them ; though fchaire is litle appearance.
For newes out of thir quarters : Thaire is a horfe companie gone
out of this toune to the King of Boheme ; the newes yee harde heir
that the Aflemblye of hidden was gone to the Rochelle, warr not trew,
as we have knowen fmce, but now wee heir that the King hathe
commandit them to feperate them felfes within a fortnight, otherwaves
thraitneth thay fall be declared criminel of Lefe Majeftie. Quhat will
be the iffeu wee know not. Yee have harde, no queftion, of the Embal-
fadouris going to Spaine about the manage, quiche put Mr Melvine in a
gritt feare and alarme. As alio yee know, I beleeve, before ws of the
4000 Spagno[lles] drowned, quiche warr cwming to the Arclieduke to
goe againft the King of Boheme. This is all wee know: If yee know
them alreddie, the lofe is not gritt. Only Monfieur Tilenus is gone to
Paris to dwel. Mr Melvine and Mr Colville maike thaire commenda-
tions to yow moil hartelye. And prayes yow to wryte all newes of
Britanc, but of Scotlande cheaflye, as alio of your owen healthe, eft ate
of body and mynde. Quhat [have yee] doune or mynde to doe con-
cerning thefe things yee are on? Thaire [is ane] distiche I have feen of
Mr Melviiic's, quich if yee have it not [yet, it] wold not be wnproper
to joyne amongft the reft :' if yee have it [my paynes] in wrvting of it
arr but loft, quiche is not muche.
Ht< rarchia A/iglicana.
| Si] nun ezpressa effigies, ut imaginia instar
Eoman;i' alterius, Lcllua nostra, ferae est.
It is fchort, and fo much the better, but it [is] alfo pithie, and pleated
1 Fr this phrase, we may infer that Adanison assisted in collecting, if he was not
[!,.■ actual Editor of the volume of "A. Melvini Muses," printed in Holland in 1020. —
Tin- writer of this letter was probably a younger sou of David Hume of Godseroft.
1620.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 623
me well ; yee will doe ws all grit pleafure to lett ws heare from yow, for
wee have harde nothing from Scotlande this long tyme, and alfo yee
will maike ws the more affured of your well-being, and guide eftate.
Thaire is nothing more for the prefent, but wifhing yow all heal the of
bodie, and comfort of mynde, I reft
Yours to be commandit,
Sedane, this 9 of Mairche, 1620. Jhone Hume.
Be pleased to send this letter to my Father
with the first occasion, for a letter, as yee
know, may import much, especiallye to men
that is far from thaire freindes.
To his much refpecled and honored freinde,
Maifter Adamfone.
CCCLXXX1X.— HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE LORDS OF
PRIVY COUNCIL.
[James R.]
Right truftie and right weilbeloued Coufenis and Counfallouris,
and right truftie and weilbeloued Counfallouris, We greit you weill.
Whereas diuers of Our Burgh of Edinburgh, oute of a peevifhe humour,
in contempte of goode ordour, leaue thair ordinary Paftouris, and fol-
lowing depryued or lilenced Minifteris, receaue of thame the Sacrament,
We haue conceaued a moft iuft indignatioun againft thame, whiche We
deferre to expreffe by any exemplarie punifchment, hoiping that at
this approtcheing Eafter thair conformetie to goode ordour fhall teftifie
thair amendment. Bot in refpecl; that their be fome who contenowallie
afEft the refractarie Minifteris in all their diffobedience, and fpare not to
countenance them in all their public!; doingis, yea, euin to accompany
them when they ar cited befoir Our Heigh Commiffioner, thereby encou-
G24 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1620.
rageing them to (land onto againlt the ordoures of Churche, in con-
tempt of Oure autkoritie. And altlioght We haue fo long haid
patience with thame, as to expecl that by lenitie and admonitioun thav
might haue bene reclamed from thair rebellious humour, and reduced
to ane obedient and dewtifull kynd of behaviour ; yet fieing lenitie pre-
uaillis not with thame, We haue thoght goode, by thir prefentis, to will
yow to remoue the fpeciallis of thefe euill weadis oute of that feild, and
lend Williame Rig, mercheant,1 and James Cathkine, into Cathnes,
Richard Lawfone to Aberdene, Robert Meiklejohn fkinner to Dunkeld,
Johnne Meine to Wigtone, in Galloway, and Thomas Inglis fkinner in
Montrois ; willing and commanding euery one of thame not to exceid
the bonndis to him limitted without Oure fpeciall warrant, vnder all
heighefl paine and punifchment. The lyke courfe we intend to tak
with otheris who falbe fund culpabill of the lyke offenfles. And not
doubting of your cair in the premiffes, We bid yow fairweill.
(Jivin at Our Mannour of Theobaldis, the penult of Marche 1G20.
CCCXC— THE AKCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO HIS MAJESTY
KING JAMES.
Sire,
May it pleife your Maieflie : The Minifleris and Seflioun of
1 In the Register of the Privy Council, 24th Feb. 1620 (fol. 22G), there is an Act
containing a " Charge against William Rig, and others, to confine themselves within
certain bounds ;" but, like several portions of this volume of the " Acta," it is nearly
illegible, having been mutilated and injured by damp. On the 19th April, the following
notice occurs in a minute transmitted by the Secretary : —
Decimo Nono Aprilit 1620.
The directioun send down from his Maiestie touchiug the confyneing of Williame Rig,
James Cathkine, and otheris, wes this day presentit to the Counsel!, and allowit, and
accordinglie charges ar direct aganes them for entrie in thair wairds.
According to his Maiesteis directioun, the Counsall lies written ane vcrie BChairpt
letter to the Earle of Erroll concerning Patrik Con his going with his [the Earl's] sone
to France. — [On this subject, see Calderwood's History, vol. vii. p. 426.]
1620.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 625
Edinburgh directit to me three Coinmiffioneris, with a letter, erneftly
requesting that I wold interceed for the releif of thefe that vver charged
to depart the town. I refufit them a long qhyl, laying before them
thair diforderis and great ingratitude to your Maieftie, qhiche I did
alfo fignifie to them by my anfwer maid to thair letter ; yit, at laft, by
earneft intreatie, and many promifes of amendement, I haif ben inducit
to mak ane humble fupplicatioun to your Maieftie for thair fparing at
this tyin : And fo I mult, by your Maiefties patience, becom a futer for
perfonis moft vnworthie, only vpon a defire to haif obedience wroght to
your Maiefties commandementis with the leaft bufines that may be. If
your Maieftie did vnderftand my vexatiouns, and the infupportable bur-
then I beare, I fuld not neid to crave your Maiefties pardon for this my
boldnes, qhich yit in duty I mutt. If it fal plefe your Maieitie gra-
tioufly to hearken to my defyre, the leaft fignificatioun to my felt* by
letter wil do the bufines ; for thair is no great zeal heir in executing
fuche dire6tionis, otherwyfe I fuld not haif neidit to moleft your Maies-
tie with thir fupplicationis, for qhiche I humbly crave your Maiefties
pardon, and reftis
Your Maiefties moft humble fervitour,
Sanctandkews.
Darfy, laft Apryl 1620.
To his moft Sacred Maieitie.
CCCXCI.— AN ACT OF PRIVY COUNCIL.
Apud Hahjrudhous, Decimo Maij 1620.
Forsamekle as the Reuerend Father in God, Jobne Archibifchop
of St Androis, be his letter wreittin and direelit to foine of the Lordis
of his Maiefteis Preuie Counfaill, lies acquentit thame that he lies wreit-
4 k.
626 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1620.
ten up to the Ivingis Maieftie in fauouris of Williame Rig, Richard
Lawfoun, James Cathkcne, Thomas Ingleis, Johnne Meyne, and Robert
Meiklejohnne, burgcffis of Edinburgh, humblic intreating his Maieftie
to difpenfe with the chargeis execute aganis thame for thair confyneing
and warding in the general pairtes and placeis appoyntit unto thame.
And quhairas the (aid Archibifchop lookeit to be aduerteiiit be his
Maieftie hutching bis will and pleafour in this mater betuix and the
lirft day of Junij nixtoeome : Thairfoir he humblie defyreit the faidis
Lordis to contenow the executioun of the faidis chargeis till the day
foirfaid. The Lordis of Secreit Counfaill allowing of the faid Archi-
bifchop his doingis in this mater, thay thairfoir ordanis [and] commandis
ofhceris of arineis quhatfumeuir to fupperfeid and contenew all forder
chargeing of the perfonis abouewrittin to enter in thair faidis wairdis,
and all putting of ony letters or chargeis to forder executioun agane
thame for that effe6l vntill the faid firft day of Junij nixtoeome.
CCCXCII.— MINUTE OF PROCEEDINGS OF THE PRIVi' COUNCIL.
Octauo Junij 1620.
His Maiefties letter, by the which his Maieftie commandit ane
new Proclamatioun to be made publicl and prentit toucheing obedience
to be gevin be all his Maiefties fubiectis to the A6lis of the Afl'emblie at
Perth being this day prefentit and red in Counfell, the two Arch-
bifchopes of St Androis and Glafgow being prefent, and ane minute of
the Actis of the faid Aflcmblic being lykwayes produced, it was found
that onlie two of the faidis Actis concernit the fubiectis in thair obedi-
ence, to wit, the Actis anent the couimcmoratioun of the Birth, Paffioun,
Refurrectioun, and Aft'cnfioun of Jefus Chrift, and lending doune of the
Holie Ghoft, vpone the dayes appoyntit to that effect, and the repairing
to the Church for heiring of the Sermon vpone thefe dayes; and the
other Act touching the celebratioun and reffeaving of the Communioun
r. \( irentlie with kneiling, and the reft of the Actis, with thir twa, con-
1620.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 627
cernit the Minifteris in thair obedience. It being proponit, What paine
lbuld be fet downe againft the perfones alfweill of the Minifterie as the
people, who refufed to give obedience and conformitie to the laid A&is :
The two Archbifchoppis proponed reafones why no pecuniall paine fuld
be fett downe againft the Minifterie, bot thay muft be fubiecl; and
vnderly the Ecclefiaftik cenfures be the ordinare judges of the Church,
which confifted of deprivatioun or fufpending of them from thair
Minifterie, and confyning of them as fould be thought expedient;
and affirmed, that they knew this to be his Maiefties will and mean-
ing : Quhairvpoun the Counfell all in ane voice acquiefced to thair
opinioun.
Anent the paine and puniihment to be inflicted vpoun the people ;
becaus the A6t of Parliament made anent keiping of the Sabbothe day
appoyntis onlie xx 0 to be payed be the prophaneris and violateris
thairof, it was thoght be the twa Archbifchoppis and haill Counfell that
thir fyve dayis could not be accomptit in lyke degree with the Lordis
holie Sabboth, and that if either the like paine, or gritter, wer fet
doune aganis the breakeris of thir dayes nor is fet cloune aganis the
breakeris of the Sabboth, that it would be offenliue to the people, and
that it would be miftane as ane introduction of fome Popifh rites ; and
thairfoire it is ordanit, that all perfonis fall repaire to the Church, and
heir the preaching vpone thefe dayes, under the paine of xiij f? iiij d.,
and that the Minifteris do thair dewtie vpone the faidis dayes, according
to the A&is of the Affemblie, vnder the paine of the Ecclefiaftick cen-
furis forfaidis.
And touching the kneeling at the reffauing of the Sacrament ; the
paines following ar appointit, to wit, for ane Erie ane hundreth pundis,
ane Lord ane hundreth merkis, ane Baron or Laird fyftie pundis, and
all other perfonis of whatfumever rank xx lib., toties quoties, or leffe, at
the difcretioun of the Judge, according to the qualitie and conditioun
of the offendour.
The Proclamatioun heirvpoun is to be drawin vp, and to be delyvered
to the Archbifchope of St Androis, to be advyfed thairwith, and is to be
advyfed vpone Tuyfday nixt.
628
ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING
[1620.
CCCXCHX— ACT OF PRIVY COUNCIL, AND MISSIVE LETTER FROM HIS
MAJESTY TO THE COUNCIL.
Apud Hahjrudhous, Octauo Junij, in the Afternoone.
Sederunt —
Chancbllaib.
TlIESAURAIR.
S1 Androis.
Glasgw.
Roxburgh.
BuCCLEUGII.
Melros.
Lauderdaill.
L. Erskene.
L. Craxstoux.
L. Carxegye.
Kildrymmie.
Preuie Seall.
Thesadrer Depute. Ixxerteill.
Justice Clerk.
Aduocat.
Kilsayth.
Bruxtyllaxd.
Merchtxstoux.
RlDHOUS.
FoiSTERSAIT.
Sin Axdro Kek.
Sir P. Young.
COXSERVATOUR.
Proclamatioun anent obedience to be gevin to the Actis of the Assemblie at
Perth.
Whereas his Maieftie, oute of ane trew and vnfained zeale to
Godis lionnour and for the aduanceraent and promoveing of trew reli-
gioun amongft all his fuhjeots of this kingdome, &C.1
Followis his Maiesteis Missiue for the warrand of the Act
aboue ivritten.
\ ■ I AMES R.]
Right truftie and right weilbclouit Coufens and Counfalloiiris, and
right truftie and weilbclouit Counfalloiiris, We greit yow Weill. Whereas
We, oute of Oure vnfeinzcd zeale to the aduantage of Godis honnour,
' " A Proclamatioun for keeping the Actes of the last Generall Assemblies of the
Kirk," dated as above, at Halyrudhouse, the 8th day of Junij 1020, " Edinburgh,
Printed by Thomas Finlason, his M. printer," was issued as a broadside. A copy is
preserved among Calderwood's Collections, (Wodrow MSS. fol. vol. xliii. No. 95.) It i-
in substance the same as the paper here printed as No. CCCXCII. ; and a copy of it i*
likewise given in Calderwood's History, vol. vii. p. 444.
1620.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 629
and promoving of trew religioun amongft Oure people, propofed to the
Cleargie of that Oure kingdome certayne Articles at Oure laft being
thair, whiche afterwarde in ane Affemblie helde at Perth Wee caufed be
concluded, and ftill fince that tynie haue by Oure diuerfe letters required
that the fame fould be obferued, and whereas We maid a proclamatioun
to go foorthe thairvpoun fchortlie efter the faid Affemblie : And that,
neuirthelefs, by the feditious dealings of fome refraclarie Minifteris, who
haue alwyfe oppofed thame felffis to Our jufte commandementis, diuers of
Oure goode fubieclis have bene maid to conceaue finifterlie of Oure pro-
cedingis and of the conclufionis takin in the faid Aflemblie : And by
that occafioun not onlie a rupture is maid in the Churche, but oppin and
manifeft difibbedyence gevin to Oure dire&ionis, which We nather can
nor will leave vnpuniihed : Thefe are thairfoir to defyre yow to cans
intimatioun be maid of new of Oure expreffe pleafour concerneing
obedyence to be givin to Oure faide ordinanceis, and to fett doun a
particular pane vpoun the tranfgreffouris thairof, according to the qua-
litie of the tranfgreffour : As alfo to inhibite all perfones, of quhatfum-
euir rank or degrie, to impugne ony of the faid ordinanceis in thair
pubhcque or priuat difcourffes, or detrecl thame as thingis in thame
selffes vnlaughfull and vnlaughfullie concludit, vnder the paine of being
called befoir Our Counfaill or other Judgeis whome we fall appoynte,
and punifcheing of thame in thair perfones and goodis : And this recom-
mending to your fpeciall cair, We bid yow fairweill.
Givine at Oure Mannour of Theobauldes, the penult of Maij 1620.
CCCXCIV— THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL TO HIS MAJESTY
KING JAMES.
Most Sacred Souerane,
By your Maiefteis letter, written to the Erll of Melros, your
Maiefteis Secretarie, we perfaue that your Maieftie hes tane fome ofiens
vpoun occafioun of ane informatioun fend vp to your Maieftie, That quhen
030 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1620.
your Maiefleis commandment of confyneing of certane difobedient
perfonis of Edinburgh wes exhibite in Counfell,1 fome qucftionis and
doubtis wor proponed, how far your Maiefteis commandmentis in the
lyke caifes might extend, quhilk your Maieftie lies interprete to be a
direct calling of your Royall authoritie in queftion. We ar forie that in
a mater of this kind, towcheing youre Maieftie onywayes in your Royall
prerogatiue and authoritie, that fuche finifter informationis fould haif
bene maid of ws ; ffor as we ar all free of that mater, and never har-
bourit any fuche notioun in owre hairtis as to chope at the meaneft
pointe of youre Maiefteis authoritie, fo, quhen j'our Maiefteis com-
mandment and letter for confyneing of thir men wes exhibite and red
in Counfell, thair wes never fo mutche as ane word fpokin, quhilk, in
direct or coloured fenfe, might haif impugned the fame ; bot the haill
nomber that wes prefent, of whome few ar this day abfent, acquiefceit
thairunto, without proponeing of any queftioun or doubt aganis the
fame, or fpeakeing of ony ane worde quhilk, in fenfe or confequence,
might haif bene interprite to the preiudice of your Souerane authoritie.
All the queftioun that wes in handis wes onlie anent the tymes of the
nitric of thir perfonis in warde, quhilk necefiarlie required fome con-
Qderatioun, in refpect of the pouirtie of fome of thame, the aige and
inhrmitie of otheris, and the far diftance of thair wairding placeis, whilk
moued the Counfaill to grant vnto thame a reafonable tymc to enter,
for the better inhabilling of thame to mak thair prouiiioun and i'urniffing.
This being the fimple treuthe of all that wes done or fpokin in that
bully nes, we humblie prefent the fame to your Maiefteis fauourable
1 We learn from Calderwood, that in compliance with the King's injunctions (see note
to page 624, and also letter No. CCCLXXXVIII.) the Privy Council had given a
charge to William Rig, and other persons named, " to enter in their several wairds or con-
finement, without citation, tryall, or convietioun before the Counsell, onlie for satisfaction
to his Majestic When that mater was proposed in Counsel, Chaneelour Seton said,
' They could not proceede so inorderlie, for it was neither reasonable nor according to
law.' The President, Secretarie Ilamiltoun, answered, ' My Lord, ye must not frame
the question so. It must be framed in these terms, " Whether will ye give obedience to
the King's letter or not?"' So the Act was made without contradiction." A copy of
the summons to this effect, dated 19th April lGJO, is printed in Calderwood's His-
tory, roL vii. p. 439.
1620.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 631
confideratioun, requesting your Maieftie not to gif haiftie credite to
informationis of this kynd, quhairby your Maiefteis faithfull feruandis
and Counfellouris may be wronged, and the finceritie of thair behauiour
and cariage in your Maiefteis fervice randerit fufpitious ; bot in this, as
in all otheris thingis, fubmitting oure felffis to youre Maiefteis moft
excellent judgment, and frome oure hairtis praying God to bliffe your
Maieftie with the continewance of mony lang and happie yeiris, we
reft
Your Maiefteis moft humble and obedient
fubiedtis and feruitouris,
Al. Cancells. A. Mar.
Melros. Scone.
G. Murray. Roxburghe.
J. Erskyne. W. Oliphant.
Halyrudhus, xv Junij 1620.
To the King his moft facred and
excellent Maieftie.
CCCXCV.— MRS ESTHER INGLIS1 TO HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES.
Most Mightie Monaeche,
Darre I prefume vpon th' honnor and credit that I haue had at
diuers tymes to fpeake your Royal Majefte, and hath euer found your
1 Boyd of Trochrig, in his Diary, says, " In the moneth of July 1625, having gone to
Edinburgh, I learned of the death of Esther Inglish, wife of Barthol. Kello, a woman
adorned with many good gifts. Among others, she was the first writer of any woman in
her time, of which I have some beautiful monuments under her hand, of her friendship
towards me and my wife." — (Wodrow's Biograph. Collections, Maitland Club, vol. ii. p.
269.) In his original Diary, written in French, Boyd calls her " Esther Angloys;" but
in fact she was born in France : See the Bannatyne Miscellany, vol. i. 297, note. Her
632 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1620.
lliglincs favour, and vpon the gratious accepting of a litle work by this
youth, giucn to your Highncs at Stirucling, called Sidvs Celeste, as to
raak humble fuite for this one and laft thing to this my only fonne, who
hauing paft his courfe two yeares ago,1 would glaidlie follow Theologie if
it Ihall pleafe God. Yet as Dedalus was not hable to frie him felfe of
his imprifonmcnt in the Ifle Greta but by the help of wings mead of
pennes and wax : euen fo my Sonne is not able to frie him felfe of inha-
bilitie to eftecluat this his affection but by the wings of your Majefties
letter, compofed by pen and waxe, throuch the which he may haue his
flight happilie to fum fellowfhip either in Cambridge or Oxefoord, as
oecafion ihall fall out. Wherfore, Gratious King, lett your moft humble
handmaid find this lall fauour in your fight, to direct one of thir noble
men by you, to lignifie your Highnes will and command vnto your Secre-
taric, that when this my Sonne fhall notifie vnto him of any fellowfhip,
he may receaue without any hinderance your Majefties letter in the
ftrieteft maner. For the which I may haue my toiled mynd releaued of
the great cair I haue perpetuallie for this faid youth. And wee all of
vs will neuer ceafe to befeech God to preferue and prolong your Majefties
lyfe, with many happie and profperous yeeres to Reigne ouer vs. Eden-
brugh, the xx of Iuin 1620.
Your Mali.cs
Moft humble fubjecl;,
To the King
his moft excellent Mali*
Esther Inglis.
Manuscripts are still prized as specimens of ealigraphy, and she probably depended on
the gratuities obtained for them. She usually retained her maiden name. " Esther Ingillis,
spous to Bartelmo Kcllo, indwells; in Leytb ;" died on the penult August 1024 : and bj
her Confirmed Testament (Edinburgh, 11th March 162«j) her said spous became law-
t'ull administrator to Elizabeth and Marie Kellois, their barnes ; but it appears that her
debts exceeded her goods by L.156.
I In the list of students who graduated or took their Master's degrees at the College <>!
Edinburgh, in August Kill-1, we find the name of Samuel Kello. His father, Barthelmo
Eello, Minister of Goddis word, and indweller in Edinburgh, died 15th March 1C31.
1620.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 633
CCCXCVL— THE BISHOP OF ABERDEEN TO HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES.
Sacred Soverain,
That I feildome wryte to your Maieftie, imput it not to mif-
regaircl or oblivioun of your Highnes many and great favours, not
only fhewed to my felfe, but alfo, for augmenting of my obligatione,
to your Maiefties fervitour my brother, Captain Arthur, whom it hath
pleafed your Maieftie not only to gratifie with lands in Irland, but alfo
to admit to the fervice of your Sacred perfoun, with hopes of forder
benefit. I pray God both he and I may fo acquyt our felfes as your
Maieftie have no reafon to think your liberalise evil imployed. But my
not wryting proceedeth of that reverend refpe<5t I cary to your Maiefties
facred perfon and place, as weel knowing what excusles pnefumptioun it
wer by idle interpellatiouns to abufe the clement affabihtie of fo great a
Prince, on whom do ly, not only of your own kingdomes, but almoft the
affaires of al the worlde. I hade your Maiefties letter in favours of your
fervitour Thomas Buck, in the matter betwix him and your Maiefties
Colledge in Old Aberdene, wheranent, as your Highnes pleafur muft be
a law to ws, fo wifh I heartely that your Maieftie vnderftood particu-
larly the diftrefle of that poor Houfe through the abominable dilapi-
datioun of the meanes mortified therto by miferable men, who in dead
tymes, not being controulled, have fo fecurely facked al that eftait, as if
nather a God hade bene in heaven to count with, nor men on earth to
examin their wayes ; the fight wherof fo pearced me, dimming in this
roume, that befyds any place gevin me by the foundatioun, I thought
good to arme my felfe alfo with your Highnes Commiflioun, for preferv-
ing, if poffibly I may, fo laudably an inftitut work from vtter mine. My
cair and travel to this end I have reported to your Maiefties Privie
Counfel. [Nather fee we any poffibilitie of re-erecting the decayed ftait
of that Houfe but by feeking the benefit of your Maiefties lawes for
recoverie, in fum meafure, the facrilegioufly fold leiving therof, wherof
no pairt wes more corruptly put away then thofe teinds for which your
Maieftie is mooved to interceed. The confidence we conceaved of your
4 L
634 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1620-
Maiefties favourable affiftance, and of al your Staits men heir (who vpon
pitiful eonfideratioun of the cafe promifed ws al forderance), emboldened
ws to lay much on the prefent Principal for reparatioun of that work,
as alfo for a juft punifhment of his own bygone pnevaricatioun, that
both he and others might heirafter walk more circumfpeclly ; in which
endeavour, if we be difcouraged in the beginning, I leave to your Maie-
fties wyfe eonfideratioun what may be the harmc that fbal infue.
I have heard alio long agoe of Maifter JEdie his finiftrous reports
made to your Highnes of the procedings heir with him, and that
in particular he hath traduced Doctour Forbes, then whom I may
boldly fay your Maieftie hath not a more learned, found, fan&ified, and
diligent Divine in this your kingdome, or more fincerly affected to
God's and your Maiefties fervice. And whatlbevir paft againft Mr iEdie,
1 wes therin but a fpectator; for howfever I wes clothed with your
Maiefties Commiflioun for vifiting of that fchoole alfo, yet the Erie
Merfhal, who is founder and patron of that Houfe,1 taking it fumwhat
hardly that any befyds him felfe, or by any other power, fhuld medle
with that buffmes, I wes content his Lordfhip by him felfe, and fuch as
it ftiould beft pleafe his Lordfhip to affociat to him, fhuld tak order for
redreffing of enormities their; wherin, if things did go rightly, I fhuld
acquiefce, and mak report accordingly : and otherwayes I wold nather fo
far fuffer your Maiefties commiflioun, or that ordinary authoritie which
I iv niyn office I hade according to your Maiefties lawes in the infpec-
tioun of fchooles, to be contemned, but that I wold exercife the fame, if
his Lordfhip gave not fatiffactioun. Heirvpon his Lordfhip indicted a
Yilitatioun, choofed his own aflbciats, at the point of fitting doun in-
treated my prefence and affiftance, which efter fum adoe I graunted, as a
beholder what fhuld be done, and with proteftatioun of no derogatioun
therby to your Highnes commiflioun wherwith I wes clothed. Their,
Sir, wer tryed againft Mr iEdie fuch defects, and alio fum fo odious mifcari-
age in matters of his calling, as they being laid bef'oir him, before any fen-
tence, he wes induced to fubi'ervve a dimiffioun of his place and office ;
and I wold boldly affirme, that the altered ftait and face of things in that
1 The Marischal College and University of Aberdeen was founded by George fifth Earl
Marischal, in 1593. He survived till April L623.
1620.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 635
Houfe fince, hath more then juftified his abdicatioun. But your Maieftie
is as an Angel of God, which maketh ws the les cairful of apologies.
I am alredie afliamed of fo long a letter; but fince I haue taken
boldnes to fpeak to my Lord, let me out of cair and love but vent this
one thing, which my heart can not hold wp. As your Maieftie would
have a fucceffe and happy fettling of theife fooliih broyles, which pre-
sently difturb the peace of this Church, and would vindicat your Maieilies
own wpright intentiouns and our poor endeavours, who ferve God and
your Maieftie in this buffines, from the pairtly ignorant, pairtly malicious
calumnies of fooliih and fanatik men, fhew no les if not more vehemencie
in correcting and repreffing the peirt recepters of Jefuits and Preifts, then
in vrging Conformitie to ceremonies inacled ; for, otherwaves (I entreat
your Maiefties pardon for this boldnes), nather flial the one fort fpair
calumnioufly to avouch, that both your Maieltie, and we who know your
heart and therfor ferve your Highnes heartely, ar but making way to
Poprie ; nather the other fort flik to practize advouedly what your Maieftie
and we alfo wold be forie to behold, and to vaunt vainly of abufed favour.
Their number and audacitie groweth dayly, pairtly through our madd
diftractiouns, pairtly through a fals conceaved hope of your Maiefties
toleratioun. I know your Maieftie abhorres crueltie, and God forbid
that I ever be a ftirrer therto ; but, even without proceiding to blood,
your Maiefties lawes have fufficient reftraints, wherby, with evident
bewraying of your Highnes difpleafure and neceffarie feveritie in fo
dangerous a cafe, their temeritie may be brydled. I haue divers things
concerning the diftreffed eftait of the place, wherin God and your
Maieftie have fet me to ferve, and the remedies therof to impairt to
your Highnes ; but I wil not now fafh your Maieitie with moe woords.
The God of al grace preferve your Highnes in long lyffe and flooriihing
ftait for the comfort of his Saints.
Your Maiefties humble fervant,
Edinbrugh, 4. Julij, 1620. Pa. Aberdene.
To the King his Sacred Majeftie,
theife in haund.
63G ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1620.
CCCXCVII.— ORDERS TO BE PUTTE IN EXECUTION FOR REPRESSING
OF POPERIE.1
1. That publik proclamation be made at the Mercat Croffes of all
burroughes, charging all Jefuites, Seminarie and other Preiftes, to
departe oute of the realme before the firft of Nouember, with certifica-
tion that the lawes of the contrie flialbe executed vpon fuch as flialbe
foun.de after that time, or after their banifhment mail returne, with all
rigour.
2. And becaus the impunitie of receipters of Jefuites and Preiftea
hath bene the cheefe caufe of their reforting to the contrie, That
power be giuen to thofe of the High Commiffion to calle the receipters
before them, and punifh them both by imprifonment and fyning, accord-
ing to the qualitie of the offence and condition of the offender ; and (if
neede be) to putte them to an oth, with this prouifion, that they being
fworne, their depofitions and confefiions giuen fhall inferre no other
|mniihment againft them then may be impofed by that Judicatories
3. That all refufers to fubfcribe the Confeffion of Faith, or to com -
municate, after a dew tyme affigned, flialbe puniflied by the High Com-
mifiion.
4. That Excommunicated perfons be not fuffered to walke abrode,
but be committed to warde, vpon the declaration of the Bylhoppe of
the Dieycefe, and fined and deteyned til he become obedient and be
relaxed.3
5. That a fine be impofed on the refufers to heare fermons.
1 A similar paper in Sir James Balfour's Collections is indorsed, " Note sent to the
Counsel] from Sarum, 1620, given in by the Bishop of Dumblane." The above copy
was probably the one submitted for the King's approbation.
• In the paper mentioned in the previous note, is this addition: — "As also to cause
imprison these who sail be found guiltie of the resait of Jesuite Anderson, if ony of them
shall proas to be fugitive."
1 In the same paper there is here added: — "And especially to direct the guarde
to apprehend the Excommunicants in Aberdeen diocese, who has disobeyed the cita-
tion."
1620.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 637
6. That, fo neare as may be, the like order may be taken with the
Popifh Ladies as is taken in Englande. (Caufe Sr. G. Caluerte enquire
this at Sr. H. Speller.1)
Againste Puritanes.
1. That power be giuen to the Iudges of the High Commiffion to
punifh the non-communicantes after the order eftablifhed at Perth, and
to exacte the pecuniall fummes impofed by Adte of Counfell vpon l'uch
offenders; and that none be fuffered to reafon againft the eftablifhed
orders ; and cheeflie that the people of Edinburgh be not permitted
publicklie to tranfgreffe the Ac~te, as [they did] of late.
2. That all Judges, Aduocates, Sheriffes, Proueftes, and Baillies, prac-
tife the orders in their perfons, vnder the paines fpecifiied in the A&e of
Counfell, and furder, as the Counfell fhall thinke fitting.2
. CCCXCVHL— THE BISHOP OF ORKNEY TO THE LORD CHANCELLOR.
My WERY HONORAB1LL GUID LORD, AND NOW
My speciall Lord,
Efter the fight of your Lordfhip's letter, I went to Birfay with
the Shireff, quhar he was Baillie and I Atturney, for fait of better. I
protefted thair (hot intra parities) that nather my being Atturney, nor
the infeftment gevin to your Lordfhip, fould be preiudiciall to the
Bifchops of Orknay in the contradl of excambione or infeftment paft
thairupon. This I knaw will not offende your Lordfliip, Your Lord-
fhip knawis that I was ever moft willing, in all love and dewty, to feme
your Lordfhip ; bot now I do acknawledg my felf much moir, evine of
1 Sir George Calvert received the honour of knighthood in September 1617, and in
January 1625 was created Baron Baltimore. Sir Henry Spiller was knighted in July
1618.
2 In the original paper, there is added this memorandum : — " Letters to be written to
the Counsell, another to the Bishops heiranent, to be diligent herein."
638 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G20.
neceffitie. I am glaid of this occafione quhairby your Lordfliip fall
have a pruft' of my dewtyfulnes, both to your Lordfhip's felf and to
quhomefocvcr it fall pleis your Lordfliip imploy. I purpois not to cum
South this winter. For ought I knaw, thes Zetland maters will not
requyre my prefence. Your Lordihip now, I dout not, will tak fik
ordour in thofe maters, that the cuntrie be not farder abufed. As for
this cuntrie, your Lordfliip knawis the generallis : particularis can not
be confined in fik fchort letteris. I have fpokine the berer in thre
things: 1. Anent a Commifiione of Jufticiarie. 2. Anent Ethay, and
the claufs irritant of that infeftment, it void not be flippit. 3. Anent
Intimatione to be med to tennentis heir for taking fewis, with fum kynd
of certificatioun ; for without that ther will be no provifione for money,
and in effccl ther is non in the cuntrie, quhilk your Lordihip will find
to be trew. I have confered with the berar fua in thes things, that he
will give your Lordfliip fie infight as may give occafioune to your Lord-
fliip to think mou- therupon. I dar not trubill your Lordfliip with long
letter, hot fall be redy ather heir to abyd or cum quhar your Lordfliip
is, quhen your Lordfliip will. Wiffing the bliffing of God to all your
Lordfhip's good intentions, I reft,
Your Lordfhip's to ferve,
Ge. B. off Okcads.'
Laches, November 22. [1620?]
To my verie honorable good Lord, my
Lord Chancellar of Scotland.
1 On the 10th of May 1G20, the Privy Council had given " Commissioun to George
Bishop of Orkney, and to .Sir John Buchanan knyeht, and William Bruce of Symbister,
to resort and repair to the houndis of Yetland, and thair to try and informe thameselfis
trewlie and sutKcientlie concerning the saidis abusscs, insolencyes, disordours, and
ofifenofa (very fret|uentlic committit within the boundis of Yetland upon tlie poore inha-
bitantis thairof), pairtlie under the coloure of law and justice, and pairtly be the conni-
vance, ovcrsieht, bolleratioun, and allowance of those who are trusted with the officeis of
judioatorie and juriBdictionn within the saidis boundis."
1620.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 639
CCCXCIX.— MR HENRY BLYTH, MINISTER, TO MR HENRY CHARTERIS,
MINISTER OF NORTH LEITH.
My deir and maist loving Brother,
I hairtlie wifhe to vow in the Lord Jefus, our common Sauiour,
the fweit affurence and joyfull increafe of all fpirituall happiness, with
your deir bedfellow and hopefull children. I haue bene, and am in
great langour, defyring to heir of your weilfair, and merveillis ye wryt
nocht to me, feing I foryeit nocht yow, as I haue occafioun ; for ye ar
flill in my remembrance, wifhing it micht pleis our good God I may
haue agayne the com[fort to] fie your face, and injoy the fweitnes of
our wonted Chriftiane familiaritie. I doubt nocht, deir Brother, bot ye
remember me alfo ; bot I wald haue the teftimonies of your loving
remembrance more frequent be your wryting to me, till it pleis our God
to bring ws more neir to vther. As to my prefent eftait, I prays my
God it is tolerable. I am awayting in patience the ifhew it fall pleis
my heavenly Lord to fend of my troble, wherin my God hes wyflie dif-
pofed ; albeit, I think it vndeferved, in regaird of all the inftrumentis
who hes concurred in the fam. I am expecting a relenting of this rigo-
rous dealing, hoping alfo that be your interceflion with fie vther weill-
willeris thair, the fam may be procured at St Androis handis, be whais
will, as I vnderftand, only I am deteaned heir. I think it my dewtie to
omitt no lauchfull meane I may vfe for my awn releif, and thairfor will
renew my earneft requeift to yow as my moil fpeciall and loving brother
and freind, to remember me as ye find occafioun, with the help of Mi-
Thomas, my father, and billie, Mr James King, and fie vtheris as ye
think meit, in fpeiking St Androis for me, that I may haue libertie
ather to cum haine agayne, or at leaft may haue a tyme granted to putt
my diffordered eftairis to a poynt, as I may. Within thir four or fyue
dayes, I being in Channorie, mett with the Bifchope of Ros, quha pro-
feflis great kyndnes to me, and willed me to wryt my felf to St Androis,
quhilk he thinkis wald effecluat muche ; for he tellis me, it may be that
St Androis ftormes, and thinkis I dort that I wrytis nocht to him my
640 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1620.
felf. Trewlic I think nocht ill of the overture, for my nocht wryting to
St Androis aryfes of na contempt, and if that meane may do good, I
liiynd nocht to neglect it. The Bifhop of Ros, out of his loue to me
(juliilk he profeflis, hes drawin vp a minute, according to the quhilk I
fuld frame my letter to St Androis. When I wryt it, I fall fend yow
the copie. In the mean tyme, do ye as the Lord fall prefent occafioun ;
and be nocht fa flaw in wrvting to me anent that, or ony vther purpois
ye pleis, for nothing fall cum fra yow quhilk Mill nocht be moft accept-
able to me. My jewell is weill, all prais to God, and hes her hartlie
commended to yow, and her fweit kymmer and lifter. Helene hes bene
maill dangcrouflie difeafed thir 18 owkis, as I dowt not ye haue hard;
bot, in the Lordis gratious mercy, is recouered. All the reft of my
barnes lies had the flux thir mony dayes, bot I hope without prejudice
of thair health. The beraris haft cuttis me lhort. I pray yow remem-
ber all our freindis, namely, your honeft mother-in-law, your brother,
and Mr Thomas Sydferf. He wrytes nocht to me, and I haue final]
purpos to him bot commendationis, quhilk I pray you mak in my name.
The grace of the Lord Jefus be with yow.
Your loving Brother, in all I may in the Lord Jefus,
M. H. Blithe.1
Invernefs, 26 December, 1620.
To my maift loving and deir Brother,
Mr Henrie Charteris, Minifter of the
Evangcll at North Leyth.
1 Mr Henry Blyth, in 1598, was admitted Minister of the Canongate, or Holyrood-
liouse, (Wodrow Miscellany, vol. i. p. 450). In May 1019, he was summoned before the
High Commission, and hy the King's command, for non-conformity was sent to Inver-
ness, as his place of ward. In the following year, he appears to have been released from
this confinement in the North, probably in consequence of the letter from the Bishops to
the King on the 10th of July (see No. ('('('( 'X.) ; but not being permitted to return to
his former charge, he became Minister of Eccles, in the Presbytery of Dunse, where lie
died in February 1635.
1620.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 641
CCCC— NOTES BY MR PATRICK GALLOWAY OF HIS SERMON
DELIVERED ON CHRISTMAS DAY [1620.]
My vert Good Lord,
My dewtie being remeraberid, I haue heir fett doun, according
to your Lordfhip's defyre, fome breife notes of that Sermon I taught the
laft 25 of December. My text was Luke, Cap. ii., from the firft Vers to
the 15. Heirin I fchew, That tuo thingis war cheeflie conteaned :
I. The ftory of Chrift our Lordis birth : Vers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
II. The ftory of the manifeftatione of his birth : Vers 8, 9, 10, 11, 12,
13, 14.
Obs. — Off thefe tuo joynid I gaue my firft leffone, quhich was this :
It is trew Chrift was borne, but that cannot profeite ws except we be
inftruciid of it, to know it, to beleife it, and praife God for it.
And for this caus was this day appoynted quhairon folemnly this
doctrine fould be taught : So, he is a gryte enemie to his awin falvatione
that hes fo faire a occafione offerid to learne, and yet will for all that
withdraw his eare from heirinp-,1
This, my Lord, was neere the method and mater I delyvered that day ;
quhair your felff was auditor.
Your Lordlhip's awin to command,
M. P. Gallouay.
1 The abstract of the Sermon which follows, was communicated probably to the Earl of
Melros for the King's information ; it is, however, far too prolix, in its divisions and
" observes," to be printed in this collection. Calderwood thus alludes to it : It was pro-
posed, he says, " that their should be preaching in the Gray Friars Kirk, upon the Lord's
Day, the 17th. But Mr Patrick Galloway alledgit, becaus it was the 17th day of Decem-
ber, it was a dismall day to begin preaching on in that new buildit Kirk." He then
adds, " Mr Patrick wold not preache upon the Lord's Day, the 24th of December, (belike
4 M
642 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G20.
CCCCI.— ME WILLIAM STRUTHER, ONE OF THE MINISTERS OF
EDINBURGH, TO [THE EARL OF MELROS.]
Flf.is youu LoKDsmr,
I haiff caufed to writt out this minute of that Sermon (juhilk 1
delyvercd this laft Chriftmas, as your Lordfhip commandit. The extra-
ordinare tyme maid our doctrine mair lairge, thairfbir the minute is
anfwereahlie increafit : I haiff fett doune the groundis only, leiveing out
lairge amplificatiounes and particular applicatiounes.1 So wilheing increis
of all grace to your Lordfhip, I reft
Your Lordfhip's devoted in the Lord,
M. W. Struther.
becaus it was a dismall day), yit he preached the day following, and alledgit for the law-
fulncs of observing that day, the preaching of the Angels to the Shepherds, and praising
of God that day. It behooved him to say something for Halie Dayes, to please the King,"
&e. — (History, vol. vii. p. 454.)
Struther's Sermon was on Matthew, cap. i. ver. 21, " Beholde a Virgine sail conceiue
and beir a soue, and thow sail call his name Immanuell, quhilk is God withe us." The
abstract alluded to, occupies five folio pages, and commences thus :—
" We haif at tua severall tymes exponed to vow at lenthe, Brethrein, the reasounes of
tliis dayes excrceis, so that we neid not now to repeit them. This text lies first the
waiknings upe of the mynde, and then the Mystery reveiled. The first is the word
' Behold,' importeing the slowncs of our mynde and deipnes of the Mystery, thairfoir it
is sett doune at the entrie to bidde ws lift upe our spirites to thair highest reache, that
we may sic quhat is in the Mysterj .
" It is the greatest of all the workes of God, above Creatione : for in Creatione God
uttered 1. His Power in making all thingis of nothing. 2. His Wisdome in disposeing
thame. 3. His Goodness in subjecting thame t<> ws.
" But in this work off Redemptioune, all these in a greater degrie, and other also, is
proven :
" 1. His greater Power, in bringing goode out of evell.
" 2. His greater Wisdome, in satisfieing his owen justice in our salvatioune.
" 'f. His greater Goodnes, in giveing his Sone for ws." &c.
1621.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 643
CCCCIL— THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO JOHN MURRAY
OF LOCHMABEN.
Sir..
I refavit your letters this morning at St Andrews, being the 9 of
Januarij, and fal doe al thefe thingis as his Maieftie hes prefcryved. I
know his Maieftie wil defyre to hear of our obfervatioun of Chryftmaffe,
qhich in this Citie was never better kept, with great confluence of
people to Church, and ane vniverfal cefiatioun frome worke, one taylour
exceptit, qhom I caufit punifch for his contempt, From Edinburgh,
thai haif advertifed me as yit nothing of that; but I truft it be wel
done thair. I did not fail to advertife our Minifteris, but fom that pro-
mifed me much haif performed nothing, as I heare : thir follyis wil
ceafe with tym, and thir refractaries wil goe away, for thai ar dropping
down every day, as even at the wryting heirof, I am advertifed that
Jhon Arefkin, Minifter at Dun,1 the only opponer on al that fyd of
Forth, is deceafit.
I haif dealt erneftly with Mr Jhon Guthrey to com to Edinburgh,2
qho wil not be movit for ony perfwafioun I can gif him. The Toun
defyrit me to concurre with them in a fupplicatioun to his Maieftie that
he fuld be compellit to obey, or cenfurit. I advertifit him thairof, and
the anfwer returnit to me I fend heirwith to yow, that his Maieftie may
lee it : he is ane very honeft man, but in this bufines intractable ; and
yit thair Magiftracie being fo wel fet at this tym, I cannot think ony
thing fo meit to bear down the humoroufe people amongft them as a ful
planting, nor know I ony man qhofe laboris culd be fo ftedable, if he
wold be yeilding : thairfor I fal entreat yow to befeech his Maieftie that
ane letter may be yit directit to him for that bufines, and fent to the
1 Mr John Erskine, Minister of Ecclisgreig, in the Presbytery of Fordun, from 1599 to
11)15, had probably been translated to Dun.
- He was successively Minister of Meigle and Perth, and was brought soon after the
date of this letter to Edinburgh ; but a vacancy occurring by the death of Alexander
Douglas, Bishop of Murray, he was translated to that See in 1623.
G44 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1621.
Secretary, with a directioun to his Lordlhip to refaif the ani'wer tliairof
from him felf. I haif pennit the letter my felf : if the form tliairof pleafe
his Maieftie, James Dowglaffe wil wryt it over, that it may be figned.
I am glade to vnderftand that his Maieftie hes ben pleafit to fet yow
on worke about thcfe moneyis, for tliairby I look to com to fom end : the
Imrthenis that ly vpon me that way render my fervice the lefs profitable,
and force me to live at home, and more obfcure, except qhair neceffitie
preafis me to attend. To furder the fervice, I fpared no expenfe, and
made for it vpon one occafioun or other ane and fourtie journeyis to
Courte, qhairby it may be foon confavit quhat bred me tliir bnrthenis.
I left Glafgow, and took my felf to a gritter charge, with lefs provifioun,
only, as God is my witnefs, to advance the bufines, qhich I knew men,
thocht more able then my felf, wold not be fo willing vnto : then the
tvm is fo iallin out by the cheapnes of cornis, that the litle thing I had
wilbe the lefle be the half this yeir then before ; fo, beyond my annucllis,
litle remaynis to my felf; and in qhat cafe I fuld leave my children, if
God fuld vifit me, he knowis. But I confort my felf in his Maicfties
favour, and your care, and am als litle deficient as I can in that qhich
my place requyris, thocht my mynd be not a litle troubled, hafing none
to qhom I can be fo plain as to your felf.
I am very forv that his Maieftie fuld haif caft of the courfe of the
Parliament, for I am perfwadit the colleclioun wold haif ben als fodan
as the contributioun, and ben nothing vnder ane hundreth thowfand
I nimlis fterling, being followed as wes proieclit : this, if it fal go no
furder then the Nobilitie and Seffioun and Toun of Edinburgh wil be
final ; for the Nobilitie haif not, and ar for the greater part engaged ; the
Seffioun, tak away thrie or foure, alio many Advocatis and Clerkis, ar als
poorc ane eftate as ony of the countrey ; and Edinburgh people wilbe
found very unwilling. Thay talk that his Maieftie lies defyrit only fyve
or fcx thowfand lib. ; but I haif written to the Secretary that fom better
care may be had of this, and faid, that I think the Churchmen, in fuch
a neceffitie, thocht we be the greateft beggaris in the countrey, may be
movit to doe that much and more qhil the warre fal continue ; fo I
mynd at the meting to provoke otheria to doc by our example; for
being a nyn hundreth or thair about of Minifteris, 1 think every one wil
1621.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 645
gif a hundretk merkis at leift over heid, and qhat is wanting of fom
wilbe fupplyit by the contributioun of the Bifchops and otheris, that be
in better eftate. Be al meanis, at this time his Maieftie oght to be pro-
vydit with ftore of money, for without it the effairis can not be done.
This far I thocht good to imparte to yow of my mynd ; praying God to
blifle yow with al happines, I reft
Youris ever affurit at power,
St Andrewis, 9 January, 1621. Sanctandkews.
To my very honorabill good freind
Jhon Murray of his Maiefties
Bedchamber.
CCCCUI THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO JOHN MURRAY
OF LOCHMABEN.
I
Sir,
I am now vpon journey towardis Courte, defyred by the Councel
and qhole Noblemen that met this laft week at Edinburgh, and com-
pellit by thair importunities in a moft vnfeafonable tym to hafart the
way, qhich I find very diffieil ; for we haif heir fuche a tempeft of
fnow, that I haif ben forced to ftay at Cokburnfpethe two dayis,1 and
conduce men to caft the wayis quhair the fnowis wer blown and made
vnpaffable. The affectioun to the bufines, qhich is anent the contri-
butioun, and a defyre to approove my felf to thair Lordfchips, qho haif
1 The Earl of Melros, on the 29th of January, wrote to the King that the Archbishop had
undertaken this journey at the Council's special request. — (Melros Papers, vol. ii. p. 391.)
Calderwood, in noticing that Spottiswood was sent by the Council with their excuse for
postponing the supply of a voluntary contribution on behalf of the Palatinate, until Par-
liament should assemble, adds, " The prophane Prelate entered in his journey from Leith
the Lord's day, the 28th of Januar." — (History, vol. vii. p. 451.)
646 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1621.
employed me, wroght me moft to vndertak it, for in former tymis many
of them haif ben jealoufe of my voyages ; and now, qhen I found al
thair voyces concurring, with fuch ane inftance, I wold not deny it,
hoping to gif his Maieilic fatilfactioun fufxicient, and to acquyre the
greater credit witli them heirafter, qhairby I may be more ftedable in
liis Maiefties other effairis. Heirof I thocht good to gif yow advertifment,
and if 1 may be fo happie as to return with ane contented anfwer to
them, qhairof I diffide not, and with fum fupply that I haif longe
expected of my broken eftate, 1 fal haif both a freer mynd and better
occafioun to doe good in his Maiefties fervice then before. Remitting
al other thingis to meting, I reft
Your affurit ever to mv power,
Cokburnfpethe, the 30 January 1621. Sanctandrews.
To my very honorabill good freind, J lion
Murray of Lochmaben, of his Maiefties
Bedchamber.
CCCCIV.—THE EARL OF DUNFERMLINE, LORD CHANCELLOR, TO
JOHN MURRAY OF LOCHMABEN.
Right Honorabill and weilbeloueu Cousing,
I directed ane pacquett to yiow 9 inftant, quhilk 1 lang to onder-
liand that yie refaued, becaufe I directed the fame at Mr Thomas Hen-
dirfon his defire, and with his lettirs to yiow. Our ArchibifchiopjK' ofl
St Amlrois is going thair to Court, in this terriblie ciuill waddir, at tin
greate entreatie off all the Nobilitie was heir at this Conuentioun, to
gine his Sacred Maiefty, in name off all, all pollibill fatiffactioun. 1 man
requeift yiow alio in name off all, and myfelf alio, to ami! the laid Lord
Bifchioppe be all yiour belt meanis, fo he may be weill hard and accepted
be his Maieftie. I allure yiow, if his Maieftie fall giue eare to his ouuer-
1(321.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 647
tures and profecute fie courfe as lie will propone, it will worke all, far
the better to bis Maiefties intentiouns. I hoipe my Lord Bifehioppe will
latt bis Maieftie knaw, I did for my awin pairt all I micht, to baue all
at bis Maiefties wifh and will. Sua I did in treuth, and if yiow bear off
onye other, I pray yiow anfuir for me, and latt me knaw it : I fall mak
it cleir for yiour releiff and my awin. Mr Archibald Hamiltoun, called
Doclour Hamiltoun, has fhiawin me, he was meikill bebaldin to yiow
quhen be was thair this laft fomer. He fhiawis me alio, that he had ane
promeis off bis Maieftie, as yiow know, off ane Bifcbioprick in Ireland,'
the Bifchiopricke off Caffillis, has required me to remembir yiow off the
fame, for he onderftandis the prefent Bifehioppe is werye weake, if be
be nocbt gone, and wald be tbairfore remembred to his Maieftie. I wald
yie did him onye guid yie could, for I knaw na farder in the befines nor
be him. He is Minifter off Paflay, and I knaw werye weill his Father,
ane werye honeft man, Claude of the Cochno,2 tbairfore I remitt that to
yiour awin wifdome, albeit I wifh eiuer our pepill had all reafonabill and
poffibill helpe.
I haue written to yiow fuim tymes to remembir yiow helpe me to ane
new poolke for the Greate Seale, but has had na anfuir fra yiow yit off
the fame, nather is thair haift in the mater, bot I wifh it nocbt foryiett.
1 Dr Archibald Hamilton was educated and obtained his degrees at the University of
Glasgow. He became Minister of Paisley about the year 1609. In the subsequent
General Assemblies, he was a keen supporter of the dominant party ; and was nomi-
nated a member of the High Commission. His expectations of preferment were not
disappointed : having been advanced to the Sees of Killala and Achonry, in Ireland, he
was consecrated at Drogheda, 23d June 1623. On the same occasion Malcolm Hamilton,
also a native of Scotland, Chancellor of Down, was consecrated Archbishop of Cashell,
the See mentioned in the above letter. The latter died in April 1 629, and after a year's
vacancy (during which period it had been offered to James Spottiswood, Bishop of
Clogher), Dr Archibald Hamilton was translated from Killala to Cashell, in April 1630.
He died in Sweden, at an advanced age, in 1659 — (Ware's Works, by Harris, vol. i.
pp. 486, 652.)
2 Claud Hamilton of Cochno, in the county of Dunbarton, was served heir of his
father, Andrew Hamilton of Cochno, Captain of the Castle of Dunbarton, 26th May
1573. He married Margaret, daughter of Sir James Edmonston of Duntreath ; but no
notice of their son, who was Minister of Paisley, and afterwards Archbishop of Cashell,
occurs in Anderson's House of Hamilton, p. 265.
648 ORTGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1621.
I have na fardcr to wryte to yiow other nor my awin and my half-
marrowis, maift hartlic commendationis to yiow and yiour bedfallow,
l'ua wiffis yiow baith and all yiours all happines.
Yiour maift affeditionat Coufing to feme yiow,
Fromo Edinburgh, 30 Januar 1621. Dunfekmeljne.
To the right honorabill my weilbeloued
Coufing, Jhone Murray off Lochmaben,
in his Sacred Maiefties bedchalmer.
CCCCV.— HIS MAJESTY'S MISSIVE TO THE LORDS OF PRIVY
COUNCIL.
[James R.]
Right truftie and right weilbelouit Cofines and Counfellouris,
and Right truftie and weilbeloued Counfellouris, "We greete yow weele.
AVhereas one Anderfoun, a preift, is in faulf cuftodie in that Oure King-
dome, We ar weele plcafed,1 at the earnift fute of the Marifhall de
Cadinet, laite Ambaffadour with Ws frome the Franfche King, to fuffer
him be putt oute of Oure dominionis without ony furder harme : And
thairfoir We haif thoughte goode, by thefe prefents, to require yow to
tak order that by the firft commoditie he may be tranfported beyond
the feas, with intimatioun maid to him, That yf he fall returne without
< hire licence, it falbe capitall to him ; and heirof willing yow to tak fuche
affurcance as poffibillie yee may gett, and lykewayes to haif a cair that
befoir his depairtour ho may haif no opportunitie to perucrt ony of
< hire fubicetis in rcligioun, "We bid yow fairweele.
Gevin at Oure Palicc of Quhytehall, the laft of Januarye 1621.2
1 Patrick Anderson: see note 1, supra, page 385.
J At a meeting of the Privy Council held at Edinburgh, on the 13th of February, the
above letter was read, and an Act " Anent the libertie of Patrik Andersoun, Jesuit," was
1621.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIES. 649
CCCCVI— THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS [TO JOHN MURRAY
OF LOCHMABEX.]
Sir,
I muft pray yow to caufe draw the warrand for the money vnder
your own name, and wryt your own letteris thairwith to my Lord The-
i'aurer and Deput, that it may be payit thankfully ; for I haif muche
bufines at the term, qhich being fatiffeit, I may attend a qhyl the reft
til a better occafioun, and, be G-odis helpe, his Maieftie fal find it wel
beftowed.
Yow wold be plefit alfo to get me ane warrand for dimitting the
Preift that I haif in keeping, and fending him beyond fea.
And ane other to refaif my Lord of Craigtoun1 on the Counfel, qhich
no man wil but tak wel that is at home. Ye wil haif care to let thir
overtak me in pacquet by the way, and for al your kyndnes, to know
that I remain, and wil ever,
Your obliffit and moft aflurit,
Sanctandrews."
"Weftminfter, the 9 Merche 1621.
passed, commanding " the Provost and Baillies of Edinburgh to caus trye and speir oute
some ship bowne from the porte of Ley the towardis France or Flanders ; and quhen the
ship is reddie to lowse, that thay tak the said Patrik Andersoun furthe of thair Tol-
buithe, carrie him to the ship, and delyuer him to the skippair," &c.
1 Mr John Wemyss of Craigtoun, one of the Lords of Session : See the notes to his
two letters, Nos. CCCXI. and CCCXIL; also the note infra, p. 651.
2 Indorsed in his own hand, — " Mem. for the B. of St Andrewis." — From a letter, on
the 29th March, we learn that Spottiswood had then returned, and communicated to
the Privy Council various matters connected with his Majesty's " most important and
necessarie effaires." — (Melros Papers, vol. ii. p. 394.)
4 N
650 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1621.
CCCCVII— THE BISHOP OF MURRAY TO HIS MAJESTY
KING JAMES.
Moist Sacred Souerake,
May it pleis your moift excellent Maieftie, Call to remember-
ance your Maieftcis fauour grantit to tlie Proveft, Bailzeis, and Counfall
of the brughe off Elgene, oft" the gift of the patronage of the Mafindew
and otheris thair liberteis ; quhairanent it pleifit your Heines to give
direclioun for renewing off thair richtes,1 quhilkis ar now fufficientlie per-
fyted. It rcftis now to male all fare, that it wald pleis your Maieftie to
giue warrand for ratifieatioun of that gift in this nixt Parliament,2 quhilk
will croun your Maieftcis fauour, and incurage thame and all pofteriteis
to employ the God of all bliffing and grace to blis your Maieftie heir
and eternally. The famyn falbe alfo my continuall cair nicht and day
for your Ilienes happie faftie heir and for ever.
Your Maieftcis moift humble and moist affe&ionat
fubiect and feruitour to death,
A. B. OFF MoRATE.
To the King his moift
Excellent Maieftie.
' The Bishop of Murray's letter, dated the 25th of July 1619, soliciting the renewal
of this gift, is printed supra, page C1C. It will be seen from the following note that this
application was successful.
■ The above letter has no date, but is indorsed, — " Bishop of Murray in fauouris of
i lie tonne of Elgin for their patronage of the Maisondieu to the Hospittall : 1621." In
the Parliament, 1th August 1621, an Act was passed, containing a "Ratifieatioun in
t'avnuiis of the Toun of Elgine" of the grant contained in two charters dated in March
1594, " of the Hospital and Preceptorie called the Masondew (Maison Dim), besyde
the said burgh, with the croftis and pertinentis thairof," &c.— (Acta Pari. Scot. vol. iv.
p. 691.)
1621.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 651
CCCCVni.— ACT OF PRIVY COUNCIL, AND HIS MAJESTY'S MISSIVE
TO THE LOUD CHANCELLOR.
Apud Edinburgh, quinto Junij 1621.
The Bishop of Dunblane admittit on Counsell.
The quhilk day the Lorclis of Secreit Counfaill, according to ane
warrand and directioun in write, Cgned be the Kingis Maieftie, and
prefentit this day vnto thame, reffauit Adam Bifchop of Dunblane to
be one of his Maiefteis Preuie Counfaill ; lyke as the faid Adam, being
perfonalie prefent, and acknoulegeng with all humble refpecl; his Mai-
efteis gratious fauour ihowne vnto him, in preferring and aduanceing of
him to this place of honnour and dignitie, he, with all dew reuerence,
vpoun his knees, his hand lyand vpoun the Holie Evangell, maid and
gaif his folemne oathe of alledgeance, and the oathe of a Preuie Coun-
fallour.
The Kingis Maiesteis missive for the warrand of the Act
aboue wreittin?
[James R.]
Right truftie and right weilbelouit Cofine and Counfellour, We
greete yow weele, haueing fufficient prooffe of the qualificatioun and
goode difpofitioun to Our feruice of Adam Bifchop of Dunblane, "We ar
thairfoir weele pleafit to prefer him to a place in Oure Preuie Counfaill
of that Oure Kingdome : We haif thairfoir thoght goode by thefe pre-
l'entis to will and require yow to caus the Oathe accuftomed in the lyke
caifes to be miniftered to him, and admitt him to Oure faid Preuie
Counfell, to haif voice thairin, and to enjoy all freedomis, liberteis,
honnouris, digniteis, preuilegeis, and immuniteis whilk ony other Oure
1 On the last of May 1621, " Mr Johnne Weymis of Craigtoun," in compliance with
Spottiswood's request (see page 649, note 1), was admitted a member of Privy Council.
The Act, and the King's letter dated at Whytehall the 5th of May, being in precisely
the same terms with the above.
652 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1621.
Preuie Counfellour enioyeth be vcrtew of his place in Oure (aid Coun-
ii'll ; ftbr doing quhairof tliefe prefentis falbe vnto yow a fufficient
warrand. Fairweele.
Gevin at Onre Manour of Theobauldis,
the 12 day of Maij 1G21.
CCCCIX.— THE ARCHBISHOPS AND BISHOPS TO HIS MAJESTY
KING JAMES.
Most Sacred Soueraigne,
May it pleafe your Maieftie, Mr Henry Blythe, qho by your
Maieflies commandement wes confyned in Innerneffe,1 lies fent to ws
ane moll pitiful Supplicatioun, qhairin he meanis his conditioun many
wavis diftreffit: The feiknes of his children, want of moyen to entertain
him felf and his familie, and his farre being from thole with qhom he
wold find credit, requefting leave to come more nigh to his freindis, and
that he may be confyned in fuche place as we fal appoint to him, qhair
he promifes to cary him felf without al offenfe. Albeit, it is teftifeit to
ws by the Bifchops of Murray and Roffe, that fince his cumming in
thofe partis he lies behavit him felf wel and peaceably, and is refolvit to
gif obedience to al the Aftis of the Churchc, kneeling at the Com-
munioun excepted, againft qhich he wil not Hand to impugne it in ony
forte, but wil minifter, if he may be permitted, out of his own hand the
holy Sacrament, and inhibit fitting; yit we wold not fcak vpon ws to
grant vnto him ony libertie without your Maieflies knowledge and
approbatioun ; only we anfwerit that we wold, in his behalf, prefent our
humble fupplicatioun to your Maieftie, lyk as now we prelum to doe,
humbly intreating your Maieftie that we may be allowed to confyne him
in fum place more adiacent to tliir partis, qhair we falbe anfwerable
that he fid do no harme, but carye him felf dutyfully as ane quyet and
1 .Mi- Henry Blyth, Minister of the Canongate, or Halyrudlious : see note to page 640.
— This letter is in Spottiswood's hand.
1621.]
TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS.
653
obedient fubiect : And heirin expecting your Maiefties gratioufe plea-
fure, we humbly tak our leave.
Tour Maiefties moft bumble fervitoris,
Sanctandrews.
Ja. Glasgow.
A. B. of Galloway.
Pa. B. of Boss.
Ad. B. of Dunblane.
Edinburgh, the 10 of Julij 1621.
To his moft Sacred Maieftie.
CCCCX.— ACTS OF THE PEIVY COUNCIL.
Apud Hahjrudhous, xxiij Julij 1621.'
Sederunt —
Hamiltoun, Commissionair.
Chancellair. Wigtotjn.
Thesaurair. Perthe.
B. ST Androis. Tullibairdin.
B. Glasgu. Roxburgh.
B. Abirdeene. Bugcletjgh.
B. Boss. Melros.
NlTHISDALE. L. GoRDOUN.
Wyntoun. Sanquhair.
SCOONE.
COLUILL.
Carnegie.
Clerk of Reg".
Brint Iland.
SR Andro Ker.
Maister Alexander Simsoun.
The quhilk day, Mr Alexander Simfoun, Minifter at Mertoun, being
1 At this meeting the first entry contains a Proclamation " Anent the maner of Eyding
to the Parliament," on the 25th of July. The two entries relating to Simson and
Duncan are followed by a charge to be proclaimed at the Market Cross, commanding all
those Ministers who had come to Edinburgh, neglecting the care and charge of their own
654 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1621.
broght befoir tbe Lordis of Secreit Counfell, and dcmandit vpoun fomc
vndeutifull fpeecheis vtterit be him aganis bis Maieftie, in bis Sermonn
maid in tbe Grayfrier Kirk of Edinburgh, vpon tbe 22 day of Julij
inftant, obiec~ting aganis bis Maieftie fome perfonall vices, as, namelie,
blafphemie and fweareing, and talking tbe Bilboppes and Minifteris as
not being cairfull watcbemen and warneris of bis Maieftie of bis fynis :
And tbe (aid Maifter Alexander, bis anfueris tbairnnto being hard and
confiddcrit, Tlie Lordis of Secreit Counfaill findis by bis behaviour and
cariage that thair is pregnant and cleir prefumptionis tbat tbe informa-
tionis maid aganis tbe faid Mr Alexander ar trew : And becaus tbe
importance of bis Maicfteis grite and weyghtie affairis now in bandis,
will not admitt tyme nor laifair to trye tbe faidis fpeecbeis, Tbairfoir
tbe faidis Lordis ordanis tbe Bifcboppis to informe tbamefelffis treulie
and fufficientlie of the fpeecheis vtterit be the faid Mr Alexander
in his faid fermone, and to fett the fame doun in articlis, to the effect
he may be examined thairnpoun : And yf he deny the fame, that
thay haif fuche witneffis reddie as will prove tbe fame : And in the
incantyme, ordanis him to be fend to the Caftell of Dunbartane by
four of the gaird, thair to remayne prifonner till he be examinat as
faid is.
Maister Andro Duncane.
And quhairas Mr Andro Duncane, Minifter, is by fentence of the
flocks, to depart within the next twenty-four hours, and not " presume to repaire agano
thairto dureing the tyme of the Parliament, under the paine of rebellion and putting of
thame to tlie home."
The Lords of Privy Council, in a letter to his Majesty, dated 20th August 1021, refer
to the petition of these two Ministers. " Thair was a petition this day exhibite vnto
your Maiesteis Counsall, in name of Maister Alexander Simson and Maister Andro
Duncane, Ministeris, who, the tyme of the laste Parliament, wer send prisonnaris to the
CasteU of Dunbartane, excuseing thamc selflis anent the caus quhairfoir thay wer com-
mittit, and humelie craveing thair libertie, in respect of thair poucrtie and want of
meanes to intertcny thame selflis. And althoght thay ar knowne to be bot poore men,
yitt the Counsaill wald no waves medic with thair libertie without your Maiesteis direc-
tion and allowance. And t|uhencuir your Maiestie salbe pleased to gif signiflcatioun of
your will and pleasour towards them, ordour salbe tanc with them accordinglie." —
i Melros Papers, vol. ii. p. 430.)
1621.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 655
Heigh Commiffioun depryued of his Minifterie, and ordanit to be con-
firmed in the Burgh of Dundee, and notwithlianding hes brokin warde,
for the whilk he is denunceit rebell, and fiill preatcheis as yf he wer a
lawfull Minifter, in contempt of his Maieftie and mifregaird of the ordin-
anceis of the Kirk : Thairfoir the faidis Lordis ordanis the faid Maifter
Andro Duncane lykewayes to be fend prifonner to the faid Caftell of
Dunbartane, in companie with the faid Mr Alexander Simfoun, thairin
to remayne till he be fred and ordourlie releived.
CCCCXL— THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO HIS MAJESTY
KING JAMES.
Sire,
It wes yowr Maiefties gratioufe pleafure, qhen I did requeft for
the employment of Colleclorie in the prefent taxte, to anlVer, That I
might haif it more conveniently in the name of another, then to be feen
thairin my felf. But hafing lately vnderftand the Clerk of Regifter1 to
be about the fam fute, and knowing bothe his worthe and good deferv-
ing at your Maiefties hand, I haif refolved to furceafe my own ; and
meerly in regard of your Maiefties fervice, to mak bold after my maner,
to interceed that he may find your Maiefties favour in it. Al the rel-
pe6tis I had, faif a litle benefit that might haif cummed to me by the
fee that is allowed, qhairof I mak no account, wilbe alfwel fatiffeit by
his employing as my own ; for the fpecial I regardit moft wes to keep
our refraclary Minifteris from obtayning any favoure, qhiche in former
tymis they haif been in vfe by fom other officeris to find, wilbe fure
ynough. K your Maieftie be plefit to direct him that none be fpared
or overfeen of that forte, except they bring my teftificat to him bothe of
thair obedience and neceffitie otherwyfe. I know alfo his fidelitie in al
effairis, and haif feen his forwardnes at this tym for procuring the taxt,
and the malice he inducts of dyverfe in good place for fchewing him felf
in that and every other thinge that occurred for your Maiefties obedi-
1 Sir George Hav of Kinfauns.
656 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1621.
ence, that I fiild be more fory to fee him fail of his expectatioun, then
be difapointed my felf in any thinge worldly. That he thairfore may
haif encouragement, and your Maicftics fervice be wel difehargit, I moft
humbly befeeche your Maieftie that he may be favoured with this, and
it wil adde no final courage to al othcris that fee your Maiefties rcgarde
of them that ferve truly and wel. Sire, I proteft befor God, and vnto
your Maieftie, that I fimply look in this to your Maiefties fervice, being
content to neglect my felf, that thej may be fatiffeit, qhom I fee deferve
fo wel ; qhairfore I am confident your Maieftie wilbe pleafit to pardon
my boldnes, and favorably regard this my humble requeft, qhairin at
this tym I reft
Tour Maiefties moft humble fervitour,
Sanctandrews.
Edinburgh, the 3 Auguft 1621.
CCCCXIL— THE EARL OF MELROS TO HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES.
Most Sacred Sotjerane,
Having wretin my other letter vpon the fecond of Auguft ' in the
morning, this is to rander your Maieftie accompt of what is fenfyne
done in Articles. That day your Commiflioner, at fyue a clok in the
morning, began his confultation with the Archbifchop of Santandrois,
Lord Carnegie, Clerk of Regifter, Deanc of Winchefter, and me, by
what freinds meanes he might either reconquer the oppofites who had
vote in Parlement, or perfuade or compcll them by lawful] order to be
abfent ; and according to our joynt opinions, put all his friends to work
where their credit might befl prevaile, and then entred to the Articles
at ten a clok, and remaining till eight at night, difpatched fo manie
1 The letters of the Earl of Melros, on public affairs, on the 20th and 27th July and
2d of August, and also the King's letter on the 2(jth July, are printed along with the
above, in the Melros Papers, vol. ii. pp. 11 1-121.
1621.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. (357
affaires, juft of themfelues, and gracious to the people, as ferued for
powerfull inducements to diuers of each eftate to fauour his defires for
your Maiefties feruice. We ar in good hope to obteane the Church
Articles ratified with the ordinar Taxation. Our greateft dowt is of
the Taxation of Anuelrcnts, which manic abhorre as a noueltie, and a
difcourie of their mifcrie, and ouerthrow of their credit. For preuent-
ing of which difturbance, vpon the fecond, at night, a meeting of the
Articles wes appointed to be vpon the third, at feuin in the morning, to
conlider of the beft expedient, inclyning rather to difpenfe with the
extremitie, that thereby we may obteane a preparatiue of ane aide,
wanting all preceiding exemple, and a diuernon of oppofition to the
Church Articles (which we thinke more important nor the ods of a
trifle of- that Subfidie), nor by infifting vpon a verie fmall difference in a
money mater, to trouble or ouerthrow a better bufines. What fall be
refolued fall be fpeedelie fubioyned to thir lynes.
Since the wryting of what preceeds, the Lords of Articles haue this
morning met and peaceablie concluded. Extreame diligence will be
vfed to fet all men right. The event mud be remitted to God, in whoes
affiftance we confide, and befeech him to bleffe this bufines, and all your
royall defires, and reft
Your Maiefties moft humble, faith full, and obedient
fubiecl and feruant,
Edinburgh, 3 Auguft 1621. Meliios.
Your Maiefties Commiffioner ' expects that his diligence in well doing will
excufe his not wryting, which is alwayes naturcll to him, and now necelfar.
To the King's moft Sacred Maieftie.
1 James second Marquis of Hamilton. — His Majesty, in his letter to the Nobility and
Commissioners, dated 13th July, says, " Wee haue directed the Marquis of Hamilton as
our Commissioner, to supplie our absence in this present Parliament, &c, to give consent,
in our name, to the redresse of suche disorders as yee shall propone, requireing present
reformation ; and to declare to yow oure pleasure anent the expeding of suche Acts, as
Wee (out of our natural! and wonted zeale to religion and justice) have thoght expedient
for good order and policie bothe in the Churche and Estate."
4 o
• ».-.s ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1621.
CCCCXIIL— THE RATIFICATION OF THE FITE ARTICLES OF PERTH,
BY THE PARLIAMENT OF SCOTLAND, 4th AUGUST 1621.
A Ratification of the Fine Articles of the GeneraU Assembly of
the Kirke, halden at Perth in the Moneth of Auyust 1G1S.
Ouk Sovkaine Loud, with advyfe and confcnt of the Eftates of
Parliament prefently conveined, ratifies and approves the Acts of the
GeneraU Affembly of the Kirk, halden at Perth, the xxv. day of Auguft
the yeare of God J,n VJ° and eighteen years, and concluded the twenty
feventh of the fame moneth, Sessione seeunda, whereof the tenor follow-
eth :—
I. Since we are commanded by God himfelfe, that when wee come
to worlhip him, wee fall downe and kneele before the Lord our Maker ;
and confidering withall, that there is no part of Divine worlhip more
heavenly and fpirituall then is the holy receiving of the blefled body and
blood of our Lord and Saviour Jefus Chrift : Lvke as the mod humble
and reverend gefture of the body in our meditation and lifting vp of
our hearts belt becommeth fo divine and facred an action. Therefore,
notwithstanding that our Kirk hath ufed, fince the Reformation of reli-
gion, to celebrate the holy Communion to the people fitting, by reafon
of the great abufe of kneeling vfed in the idolatrous worlhip of the
Sacrament by the Papifts ; yet now, feeing all memory of by-pad fuper-
fiition is paft. In reverence of God, and in due regaird of fo Divine
a Myfteric, and in remembrance of fo myfticall ane Union as wee
are made partakers of, the Affembly thinketh good that that blefled
Sacrament be celebrated hereafter meeklie and reverently vpon their
kneeB.
II. Item, If any good Chrifiian vifited with long ficknes, and knowne
to the Pallor, by reafon of his prcfent infirmitie, vnable to refort to the
Kirke, for receiving of the holy Communion, or being ficke, fliall declare
1621.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 659
to the Pallor, vpon his confcience, that hee thinkcs his fickneffe to be
deadly, and fliall earneftly defire to receiue the fame in his houfe : The
Minifter lhall not deny to him fo great a comfort, lawfull warning being
given to him vpon the night before, and that there bee three or foure
of good Religion and converfation, free of lawfull impediments, prefent
with the ficke perfon, to Communicate with him, wlio mud alfo provide
a convenient place in his honfe, and all things neceffarie for the reverend
adtniniftration thereof, according to the order prefcrived in the Kirke.
III. Item, The Minifter mail often admonifh the people, that they
clifferre not the Baptifing of Infants any longer then the next Lordes
day after the childe bee borne, vnleffe vpon a great and reafonable caufe
declared to the Minifter, and by him approved. As alfo, they fliall
warne them, that without great caufe they procure not their children to
be baptized at home in their houfes, but when great neede fliall compell
them to baptize in privat houfes (in which cafe the Minifter fliall not
refufe to doe it, vpon the knowledge of the great need, and being
timely required thereto), then Baptifme fliall bee adminiftred after the
lame forme as it fliould haue been in the Congregatioun. And the
Minifter fliall, the next Lordes day after any fuch private Baptifme,
declare in the Kirke that the Infant was fo baptifed, and therefore
ought to be received as one of the true flocke of Clirift 's folde.
TV. Item, Forafmuch as one of the moft fpeciall meanes for flaying
the increafe of Poperie, and fetling of true Religion in the harts of the
people, is that a fpeciall care bee taken in tryall of young children
their education, and how they are catechized ; which in tyme of the
Primitiue Kirk was moft carefully attended, as being moft profitable to
caufe young children, in their tender yeares, drinke in the knowledge of
God, and his Religion, but is now altogether neglected, in refpecfc of
great abufe and errours which crept into the Popilh Kirke, by making
thereof a Sacrament of Confirmation : Therefore, that all fuperftitions
built thereupon may bee refcinded, and that the matter it felfe being
moft neceffarie for the education of the youth, may be reduced to the
Primitiue integritie.
660 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1621.
It is thought good that the Minifter in evcrie parilh iliall catechize
all young children of eight yeares of age, and fee that they haue the
knowledge, and bee able to make rehearfall of the Lord's Prayer, Belief,
and Ten Commandements, with anfuers to the queftions of the fmall
Catechifine ufed in our Kirke : And that everie Bilhop, in his vifitation,
(hall cenfure the Minifter who fhall bee found remiffe therein : And the
rayd Bifhops Iliall caufe the fayd children to be prefented before them,
and blefle them with prayer for the increafe of their knowledge, and
continuance of God's heavenlie graces with every one of them.
V. Item, As wee abhorre the fuperftitious obfervation of Feftivall
• laves by the Papifts, and deteft all licentious and prophane abide
thereof by the common fort of profeffors ; fo we think that the inefti-
mable benefites received from God, by our Lord Jefus Chrift, his Birth.
Paffion, Refurrection, Afcenfion, and fending downe of the Holy Ghoft,
was commendably and godly remembred, at certaine particular dayes
and times, by the whole Kirke of the world, and may be alfo now :
Therefore, the Affembly ordaines, that every Minifter fhall vpon thefe
i laves haue the commemoration of the forefayd incftimable benefites,
and make choyfe of feverall and pertinent texts of Scripture, and frame
their doctrine and exhortations thereto; and rebuke all fuperftitious
obfervation and licentious profanation thereof.
Which Articles and Ordinances, our Soveraine Lord, with the advyfe
and confent of the Eftates, Statutes and Ordcines to bee obeyed and
obferved by all his Maicfties fubiecls as Lawes in time comming ; annull-
ing and refcinding whatfomever other Acts of Parliament, Conftitutions,
and Cuftomes, in lb farre as they are dcrogatiue to any of the Articles
abouewritten.1
A copj of these Articles, in Balfour's Collections, transcribed by an amanuensis, is
Hi- indorsed (by Sir George Hay, then Clerk ltegister), "The 5 Articles off Perthe,
■lyverit to me be my L. Sauctandrois to be rati frit in Pari. Julij 1G21." Another
paper, in the same volume, contains the title of the Acts, with the introductory and eon-
oluding paragraphs of the Ratification : and, ou a separate sheet, " the ticket," or state
of the Votes, signed by the Clerk Register (as at the top of the next page), and enclosed
in the following letter.
1621.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIES. 661
The Votes for the Fyve Articles ar thriefcoir eightein.
The contrair Votes, fyftie ane.
Thair wes but Ten Votes againft the Taxation.
G. Hat.
CCCCXIV.— THE EARL OF MELEOS TO HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES.
Most Sacred Souerane,
Your Maiefties Parlement of this your Kingdome is this efter-
none happelie concluded. The Church Acles had oppofition, but the
well affected prevailed by fevin and tuentie votes, albeit we wer exceed-
inglie difapoynted by the treacherie of fome fmall Borrowes, who
violated their promifes,1 and wer recompenfed by your Commiffioner's
refilling to authorife their Acles and Ratifications. In the Act of the
Taxation, at firft their kythed fome danger by the voices of Lords who
granted the ordinar Taxation, and refufed the Taxation of Anuelrents ;
but my Lord Commiffioner preahlng them to giue anfuer direcllie, that
they either granted or refufed the Act of Taxation, fince it wes onlie
one Act, the reft became efchamed to refufe ; fo as the oppofites to that
Act wer fcarce ten, as the Clerk of Eegifter's inclofed ticket will teftifle.
Other Lawes and Privat Acles paft withowt contradiction. The con-
clufion wes by a fpeach of your Maiefties Commiffioner. renewing the
affurances of your Maiefties conftant fauour to this Nation ; your zeale to
the defenfe of pure Religion ; your earneft defire to releeue your People
of the burdings ; to protect them from violence; to introduce all exemples
and effects of pietie and juftice amongs them ; to increaffe trade and
commerce ; and to exempt them from the greif of the panes of bypaft
tranfgreffions of ftatutes impofing pecuniall panes. Which, being a molt
1 In the Acts of Parliament, vol. iv. p. 595-6, will be found a list of the several members,
which may be compared with the list preserved by Calderwood. — (Hist. vol. vii. p. 498.)
The latter has marked " The names of the Commissioners at this Parliament voting for
or against the Fyve Articles, or not voting at all, because not present."
662 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1621.
acceptable faircwell to the whole Eftates, wes met with the heartie
wilhes of all the people for your Maiefties long and profperous lyfe.
I mull not forget the Ooinmifiioncr's fcharp cenfure of fuch as had
abufed the toleration of privat meetings of the eflatcs, with aduertif-
inent that the like would not heercfter be fuffered. Tbe particular
accompt will be more amplie giuen by larger letters, and by the Deane
of Winchefter and Lord of Scone, who, fo foon as the Articles for the
Church and Taxation wer ended, they went to their horie, and will
relate all particulars, and euerie man's bchauiour. I may trulie afiirme
theirs to haue been exceeding faithfull and fordwart, and that your
Maiefties Commiffioner, by his obferuing your excellent infractions,
lies effected the wilhes of your faithfull feruants, and ouercome the
bufie malice and fubtiltie of the aducrfars ; which I mull afcryue to the
happinea of your royal] courfes, fo well grounded vpon wifdome and
iuftice, as they can not want fuccefle. I haue thought it would be more
agreahle to your Maieftie to know this trueth abruptlie, nor ane more
exacl report more flowlie; and praying for the like profperitie in all
your Royall affaires, I reft
Your Maiefties inoft humble and mofl obedient
fubiecl and feruand,
Edinburgh, 4 Auguft, 1621. Mklbos.
To the Kings inoft Sacred Maieftie.
CCCCXV.— HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE ARCHBISHOPS
AND BISHOPS.
[James R.]
Right Reuerend Fathers in (Jod, right trultie and welbeloued
Counfellouris, We greete you weill. Salomon fayes that " euerie thing
hath a time," and therefor certenlic the laft letter Wee receaued frome
miii was written in an vnfeafonable time, being fraughted witli nothing
but crones ami expreflions of ;iHiition, like tbe Lamentations of Jeremie,
1621.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 663
in that verie inftant when both wee and yee had wone fo greate and
honorable a victorie againft the enemies of all religion and good gouern-
ment, and confidering alfo the verie time, which was the eue of the fifth
of Anguft. The greateft matter the Puritanes had to obiecte againlt
the Church gouernment there was, that your proceeding with them was
warranted by no law, which now by this Parliament is cutte fliorte ; fo
as hereafter that rebellious and difobedient crew muft eyther obey or
refift, both to God, their natural! King, and the law of your contrie. It
refteth therefor in yow to be encouraged and comforted by this happie
occalion, and to lofc no more time in procuring a fetled obedience to
God and Ys. By the good endeuoris of Our Commiffioner there, and
others Our true hearted fubiectes and feruantes, the fword is now putte
in your handes ; go on therefor to vfe it, and lett it rufte no longer til
yow haue perfited the feruice trufted vnto yow ; for otherwife We mufte
vfe it both againft you and them. If anie or all of you be falfe or fainte
hearted, wee are hable aneugh (thankes be to God) to putte others in
your places, who both can and will make thinges pofhble which yee
accompte fo difficile. Yee talk of the increafe of Papiftrie. Your felfe
can beft witnes what direction Wee gaue for fuppreffion of them by the
Bifhop of Dunblane, when he was laft with Ys, and Wee appeale the
conference of euerie one of yow if euer Wee haue given anie toleration
in that cafe, or required eyther Our Counfell or yow be flack or flow in
that bufines ; but as Papiftrie is a difeafe of the minde, and Puritanifme
is in the braine, fo the onlie trew remedie and antidote againft it wilbe
to haue a graue, fetled, vniforme, and well ordered Church, obedient to
God and their King, hable to converte them who are fallen away by
plucking oute weedes of error oute of their minde, and to continue the
weake forte by their doctrine and good example of life. To conclude
now, We wifh yow now to go forward in action with all fpeid, and
not to fliow your felues confternated now when you had neuer fo litle
reafon; efpeciallie Wee hailing for your furder incouragement giuen
commandement, by Our letter to Our Counfell, to affift you alfwell
in the repreffing of obftinate Puritanes as in the feuere punifhment
and execution of wliolfome lawis made againft all Papiftis and fpeci-
allie traffiquing Preiftes and traytourous Jefuites : And Wee expect
664 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1621.
hereafter to heare frome time to time what yee haue acted, and of your
•rood fucccffc, and not to lie troubled anic more with queftiones and
complaintes ; which to performe, yee are pnefentlie to beginne with the
more rebellious and fcditious forte, as they fliall deferue ; and for them
who fhall praetend greater calmnes, hut yet not refolued to obey, they
muft be putte to it within a reafonable time, and in the meane time
tran fplanted from places of danger. Thus, wifhing you ftout heartes
and a happie fucceffe, Wee bid you fairweel.1
Given, &c.2 the 12th of Auguft 1621.
CCCCXVI— THE ARCHBISHOP OF GLASGOW TO HIS MAJESTY
KING JAMES.
Sir, May it pleis your Sacred and most gratious Majestie,
Wnderftanding that my Lord Areikin is to mak humble fute to
your Maieftie for the patronage of the perfonage of the Kirk of Areikin.
I thoght it my dewtie (leaft your Majeftie mould be otherwayes
informed then tlie trcwthe is), to prsefent to your Majeftie the trew
i liait di' that Kirk. It is, be the decreit of the Commiffionaris appointed
tor modifeing of Miuifters ftipends, fufticientlie provydit with a conftant
ami locall ftipend for all tyme cumming. The whole lands of the
parifch (except a litle pairt therofF) ar holdin in propirtie and tenandrie
of my Lord Areikin. The prefent Perfone, who has bene much troubled
in tyme pall for his ftipend, is now, for his hctter fecuritie of good ami
thankful! payment, moll willing and defyrous to haue my Lord Areikin
> Calderwood introduces ;i copy of this letter into his History (vol. vii. p. 507), and
jays, thai when Mr William Arthur, Minister of St Cuthberts, appeared before the High
Commission ;it St Andrews, on the 20th August, Bishop Spottiswood " willed him to
advise better, and shewed him a letter which the King had sent to him, wherein he
injoynetfa him rigorous execution of the Acts" of Perth Assembly.
- In the original scroll of this letter there is n,. .late. Calderwood adds, " Given at
Bussard, " &c. ; probably a mistake fur Rufford, near Welbeck, the seat of Sir Georgi
Saville. On the following day, the King was :it Nottingham.
1621.1 TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 665
for his patrone, and lies defyred me to declare and teftifie the fame to
your Majeftie. Ther is none better affecled to your Majefties fervice,
and in my judgement more worthie of your Majefties fauour and remu-
neration, then is his Lordfhip, by whoes wifdome, cair, and credit I haue
ever bene helped and fordcred in everie thing I had to do concerning
your Majefties feruice in thefe pairts. Thus, craveing your Maiefties
pardoun for my boldnes, and befeeching Almightie God to bliffe your
Majeftie with long lyf, and a profperous reigne, I reft
Your Majefties moft humble fubjedt and fervant,
Ja. Glasgow.
Edinburgh, 6 Auguft 1621.
To the King his moft excellent Majeftie.
CCCCXVIL— ACTS OF THE FRITS' COUNCIL.
(1.) Apud Edinburgh, 29 August), 1621.
Charge aganis Mr Robert Bruce.
Forsamekie as the Kingis Maieftie is credibillie informed that
Mr Robert Bruce, Minifter, the tyme of the laite Parliament wes at
Edinburgh, or verie neir to it, fteiring vp feditioun, and making all impe-
dimentis to his Maiefteis feruice whiche he could ; and quhairas the faid
Mr Robert wes at that tyme confynned to a certane place, his tran-
fcending the limittis thairof is a grite contempt of his Maieftie and his
Gouernament : Thairfoir, the Lordis of Secreit Counfaill ordanis letters
to be dire6l, chargeing the faid Mr Robert to compeir perfonallie befoir
the faidis Lordis, vpoun the nyneteene day of September nixt to come,
to anfuer to the premiffes, and to vnderly fuch tryale and ordour thair-
anent as the faidis Lordis fall think meete, vnder the pane of rebellioun,
&c, With certification, &c.
4p
666 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1621.
(2.) Apitd Edinburgh, Decimo nono Scptembris 1621.
Mr Robert Bruce committit to wairde.
Anent our Souerane Lordis letters direct, makand mentioun, Forfa-
mekle as his Maicftic is crediblie informed that Mr Robert Bruce,
Minil'uT. the tyme of the lait Parliament wes at the burgh of Edinburgh,
or verie neir vnto it, fteiring up i'editioun, and making all impediments
to liis Maiefteis feruice whiche he could; and quhairas the faid Mr
Robert wes at that tyme confyned to a certane place, his tranfeending
of the limitis thairof is a grite contempt of his Maieftie and his Gouerna-
ment : And anent the charge gevin to the faid Mr Robert Bruce, to
haif compeirit perfonalie befoir the Lordis of Secreit Counfaill this pre-
fent nyneteene day of September inftant, to haif anfuerit to the pre-
miffes, and to haif underlyne fuche tryall and ordour thairanent as the
faidis Lordis fould think expedyent, vnder the pane of rebellioun and
putting of him to the borne, with certificatioun to him, and he failzeit,
letters foidd be direct fimpliciter, to putt him thairto, lyk as at mair lenthe
is contcnit in the faidis letters, executionis, and indorfationis thairof;
quhilkis being callit, and Sir William Oliphant of Newton knight, his
Maiefteis Aduocat, compeirand perfonally for his Maiefteis intereffe, and
the faid Mr Robert Bruce being lykewayes perfonalie prei'ent ; quho being
demandit and examined vpoun the tuo particulars abouewrittin, to
witt, anent his comeing to the burgh of Edinburgh the tyme of the lait
Parliament, and anent the ftciring vp of i'editioun, and impeding, fo far as
in him lay, his Maiefteis feruice, he anfuerit to the firft point, anent his
comeing to the burgh of Edinburgh, That it being the good pleafour of
God to call to his mercy frome this lyff his lait wyffe, quho fired him of
all cair and burdyne of his wordlie effairis; that now the charge of all
thefe his wordlie affairis lyis vpon him, and that he being hardlie ftraitit
and putt at for the fowme of xxm (20,000) merkis, he wes conftrayned,
for preferratioun of his credit, to come to this burgh to tak ordour in
that mater, and that he came heir quictlie upoun a Wednefday at night,
flayed all that night, and the morne thairefter delt with his partye, and
fatled that buflynes, and raid away vpoun Frydav airlie in the morning:
1621.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 667
And touchelng his fteiring vp of feditioun, to the hinder of his Maiefteis
feruice, he direcllie denyit the fame, affirmcing conftantlie, that during
the fhorte tyme of his aboade heir, he fpak not with a Parliament man,
hot onlie with the Lord of Kilfaithe, intreating him to be cautioun for
him anent the payment of the faid fowme.
Quhilk anfwer, maid be the faid Mr Robert, being hard and confid-
derit be the faidis Lordis, and thai ryplie aduyfit thairwith, The Lordis
of Secreit Counfaill findis and declairis That the faid Mr Robert had
tranfcendit the boundis and limitis of his confyneing, and that thairby he
has committit ane offence againft his Maieftie, for the quhilk the faidis
Lordis ordanis him to be committit to warde within the Caftell of Edin-
burgh, thairin to remayne vpon his awne expenffes, ay and quhill his
Maiefteis larder will and pleafour be knowne towardis him.
C0CCXV1II THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO THE PRESBYTERY
OF HADDINGTON.
Loving Brithren,
I have receaved your letter tuiching Michael Gilbert, quhairby
I perceave that he is not be yow fund meit to be receavit in that Kirk
[of North Berwick]. But I muft pray yow, in your anfweir, to forbeir
the confideration of the Kirk, at leift the mentioun of it, in your writt,
becaufe, as I formerlie wrote, if he be fund meit to be an Minifter, I
cannot fhift but give collatioun as I am requyrit. He is prefentit to
that Kirk, therfor direclit to be tryit by yow : If he be not fund meit,
it exoners both yow and me, to fay fo in generall, That Michael Gilbert
being prefented be his Maieftie for fuch a Kirk, and directed by me to be
tryed by you, ye find him not qualifeit. And no more than this being
[faid], I fall defyr yow fpeedilie to acquent me whom ye wold chufe with
confent of the parochin, and I fall doe the beft I can to have yow fatif-
feit, for I fhall be loith to admitt any whom ye by your judgement finds
not qualifeit to any of your Kirks : And certainlie, wold we in planting
have this regaird, to conQder the qualities of men, their prudence as
668 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1621.
Weill as their teaching, whom Ckryfeftome in fome place rcquyris as
neceffarie in a Pallor, our Kirk -wold be in a better eftate, and our call-
ing not fo expofed to contempt as it is ; but this I leave, and for the
prefent commits yow to God.1
Refts your affured Brother,
Saint Andrews.
5th September 1621.
CCCCXIX.— THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUXCIL TO HIS MAJESTY
KING JAMES.
Most Sacred Soverane,
Thair wes a Petitioun exhibite this day to your Maiefteis
Counfaill in name of Maifter Robert Bruce, Miniller, huinblie craveing
rcleif i'rome his prefent warde, for the reffonis fpecifeit in his petition,
quhilkis in effecl; ar the fame that he delyverit by way of anfwer the laft
day when he wes broght befoir the Counfcll, and wardit for tranfcending
the linhtis of his confyneing, and bccaus the mater for <pihilk he is
wardit concernis your Majefteis felf, as ane offence and contempt done
be him in breking of his warde without a warrand. The Counfaill wald
naway medle with his enlargement and releif without youre Maiefteis
direclione and allowance, hot lies heirwith fend up his petitioun unto
your Majeftie, that after confulcratioun thairof your MaieiHe may gif
fuche direclione thairanent as your Maieftie fall think goode, and upone
the returnc of your Majefties will and plcafour towardis him, ordour
1 Gilbert had obtained from the King a presentation to the church of Xorth Berwick,
but upon trial he was found unacceptable to the people. The Presbytery of Hadding-
ton wrote t<i the Archbishop of St Andrews stating this, and the above letter was his
reply. ])r M'Crie has given from the Presbytery Records a full statement of the case,
^v 1 ilt li ultimately ended in Gilbert's settlement as minister of the parish. — (Life of Mel-
ville, vol. i. p. -Hj[l.)
1621.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 669
falbe tane accordinglie : And lb praying the Almightie God to blitie
your Maieftie with many long and happie yeiris, we reft
Your Maieftics molt humble and obedyent
fubie6lis and fervitouris,
Al. CanceliA
Melros.
S. W. Olyphajnt.
Edinburgh, 10 O&ober 1621.
To the King his moft facred and
excellent Maieftie.
CCCCXX.— ACT OF THE PRIVY COUNCIL.
Apud Edinburgh, Decimo Octobris 1621.
Mr Andro Duncane and Mr Alexander Simsoun.
The quhilk day, Mr Andro Duncane and Mr Alexander Simi'oun,
who wer prifonneris in the Caftell of Dunbartane, being, according to
his Maiefteis direclioun, releued of thair warde and commandit to com-
peir this day befoir the Counfaill, and thay compeirand accordinglie,
and the Supplicatioun gevin in be thame vnder thair handis being red,
hard, and confidderit be the faidis Lordis, and thay being weele aduifit
thairwith, and haueing alfua feene and confidderit the Mifliue letter
written unto thame from the Archiebifchop of St Androis concerning
this fame purpois : The faidis Lordis ordanis the faid Mr Andro to be
confynned in the parrochyne of Kilrynnie till he be fred and releiued
be the Kingis Maieftie, and ordanis him to forbeare to preatche till he
procure ane warrand from the Churche to that effect ; and ordanis him
to enter in his faid ward within aucht dayis after the dait heirof, as he
will anfwer vpoun the contrarie at his perrell : And ordanis the faid Mr
070
ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING
[1621.
Alexander Simfoun to be confynned in liis awne parroche till he be f'red
be his Maieftle: Lvkcas, the faidis Mr Andro Duncane and Mr Alex-
ander Simsoun being perfonalie prefent, and this prefent ordinance inti-
mat vnto tham, thay aclit and oblifl thaine to eonformc thame felffis
tliair unto, and to contcene thame within the bondis and limitis of thair
confyneing, as thay will anfwer vpoun the contrarie at thair perrell.
('('('( XXI.
-ACT OF THE PRIVY COUNCIL, ANT) HIS MAJESTY'S
MISSIVE TO THE COUNCIL.
Apurl Edinburgh, xxij Nouembris 1621.
Sederunt-
Chancellair.
Thesaubatr.
B. St Androis.
B. Glasgw.
NlTniSDAILL.
Wyxtoux.
lotiieane.
Melros.
LAtderdaill.
B. Ross.
L. Erskixe.
Carnegt.
Mr of Elpbixstoux.
Preuie Seale.
Clerk of Reg".
Justice Clerk.
Adcocat.
Kilsaitiil.
MERcnixsTtux.
Reidiiocs.
currieiiii.l.
Craigtocn.
M* P. Rollok.
CONSERUATOl R.
Anent obedienee to be gevin to the Ordouris of the Kirk.
The quhuk day the lettir under writtin, figned by the Kingis
Maieftie, and dircclit vnto the Lordis of his Maicfteis Preuie Counfell,
by the whilk his Maieftie lies commandit that obcdyence falhe gevin to
the Ordouris of the Kirk concludit at Perthe, and now eftablifcheit by
law, being this daj prefentit to the faidis Lordis, and tua feuerall
tymes red in their audience, and the faidis Lordis euery one of thaine
being feveralie demandit be the Lord Heigh Chanceller of this King-
dome, yf thay wald gif obedyence and be eonformc to the faidis Ordouris,
Thay all declairit, that thay wer fullie refolued in that mater, and as
thay had alreddy gevin, fo in tyme comeing they wald gif obedienee
thairto accordinglie.
1621.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIES. 671
Follorvis his Maiesteis Missive Letter.
[James R.]
Right truftie and right weilbelouit Cofines and Counfellouris,
and truftie and weillbelouit Counfellouris, We grete vow weele : Whereas
the Churche Orderis concludit at Perthe ar now eftabliflied for law, We
ar refolued that none haueing ony promotioun by Ws falbe difobedient
thairunto, and becaus, as We haif faid in Oure Basiaikon Aopon, that
We will haif reformatioun to begin at Oure awne elbo, quhilk is Our
Preuie Counfell, the Seates of Juftice and Memberis thairof, We haif
thoght goode by thefe prefentis to fignifie Our pleafour unto yow, whilk
is, That yow go through Oure whole Preuie Counfell and Seffioun,
requireing every one of thame, and the Memberis thairof, to conforme
tharne felffis to the faidis Orderis, quhilk We hoip thay will reddilie do ;
Bot yf ony Counfellour or Seffioner fall refuife or mak difficultie, yow
fall affure him, That yf within xiiij dayis befoir Chriftemas nixt he do
not refolue to conforme him felff he fliall loffe his place in Oure faid
feruice ; And yf ony Aduocat or Clerk lhall not at that tyme conforme
him felff, he is to be fufpendit from the exercife frome his place, or office,
and the fees and cafualityis thairunto belonging, till fuch tyme as he
be conforme : It is Oure pleafour that yow tak ftrait ordour that no
Magiftratis or Officeris of Burro wis, no Shereffis, Shereff-deputis,
Clerkis, or Officiaris be chofin throughout all that Oure Kingdome, bot
fuche as ar in all pointis conforme and gif dew obedience to the faidis
Orderis : And expecting your fpeciall diligence heirin, as yow will do
Ws moft acceptable feruice, We bid yow fairweele.
Gevin at Oure Honnour of Hamptoun,
the 29 of September 1621.
The Lordis ordanis, that this mater falbe proponned the morne to the
Seffioun, and the refolutioun of the Lordis of the Seffioun, and Clerkis
thairof, anent thair conformitie to the faidis Orderis, falbe craued, and
that the Aduocatis and Writteris to the Signett be warnit to attend
the morne in the Seffioun houfe, to heir this matter intimat vnto thame ;
672 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1621.
and yf ony of thame falbe fund refra&arie or diffobedyent, that, vpoun
notice to be gevin thairof to the Counfell, thay falbe punift according as
his Maieftie lies direclit.
Anent the laft point of the Letter, That no Magiftratis nor Officeris
of Burrowis, no Shereffis, Slicriff-deputis, nor Clerkis, be chofin through-
out tliis Ivingdome, hot fnclie as ar in all pointis conforme to the faidis
Ordouris, It is thoght, that this mult depend vpoun the diligence of the
Prelattis, and of the Miniftcris within thair Dioceyis, to examine every
manis behauiour and conformitie to the faidis Orderis, and according
as thay flill gif informatioun to the Counfell, order falbe tane with
fchame.
The Lordis excuiffis the abfence of the Erlis Mairfliall, Montrois,
Lynlythqw, Roxburgh, the Vicount of Stormont, and Lord Coluill, in
refpecl of thair feiknes, and otheris laughfull impedimentis.
The quhilk day, the Lord Chancellair produceit ane letter written to
him ironic the Marques of Huntlie, by the quhilk the Marquis declairit
that he wald conforme him felf to the Ordouris of the Kirk concludit at
Perthe Affemblie, and ratifeit in Parliament.
CCCCXXII.— HIS MAJESTY'S JUSSIVE TO THE LORDS OF PRIVY
COUNCIL.
| James R.]
Right tiuftie and right weilbelonit Cofines and Counfellouris,
and right fcruftie and weilbelonit Counfellouris, We greete yow weill:
Whereas We ar credibillie informed that diners abufcs ar crept into
the New Colledge of St Androis, fo as the fame lies mutche ncid of
reformation!!. WC haif thairfoir thoght goode, by thefe prefentis, to
require yow to cans a Commiffioun be framed to fuche perfonis whofe
names yow fall heirwith reffaue, or ony feavin of thame, to viiite the
laid New Colledge, and ret'onne the abull'es thairin, by fuche meanis as
thay fall find moll expedient. And lykewayes to tak order with the
memberis thairof \\b<> falbe fund to haif tranijrreflit the Lawis or Statutis
1621.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 67-3
of the fame, or abufed the rentis thairof in ony foirt : And not doubt-
ing of your reddie conformitie to Oure pleafour in this point, We bid
yow fairweele.1
Gevin at Newmarkett, the 19 day of November 1621.
CCCCXXIIL— ACT OF THE PRIVY COUNCIL, AND HIS MAJESTY'S
MISSIVE TO THE COUNCIL.
Apud Edinburgh, xviij Decembris 1621.
The Lordis of Secreit Counfell haueing red, hard, and confid-
derit the Kingis miffive letter writtin and diredtit vnto thame, by the
quhilk his Majeftie lies fignifeit his Royall will and pleafour, That Mr
Robert Bruce, prifonner in the Caftell of Edinburgh, falbe putt to libertie
and fredome furthe of the faid Caftell, and fufferit to returne to his awne
hous, thair to remayne, and not to come to ony place of public!; meet-
ing, aither churche or other, till the moneth of Aprile nixt enfewing,
vnder the pane of all heigheft contempt of his Maieftie and his autho-
rise, and that at the fyfteene day of the faid moneth of Aprile, or at
the furtheft at the firft day of May, according as the wedder fhall fall
oute, he enter within the Burgh of Innernes, and thairefter not exceid
the boundis of foure myllis diitance frome the fame, without his Maiefteis
fpeciall warrand obtenit to that effecl; : And the faid Maifter Robert
Bruce being fend for frome the Caftell of Edinburgh, and being exhibite
befoir the faidis Lordis be the Conftable and keeparis of the faid Caftell,
and his Maiefteis will and pleafour in this mater being intimat vnto him,
1 Agreeably to the order in the above letter, the Privy Council, on the 29th Novem-
ber, gave " Commissioun for Visitatioun of the New Colledge of Sanctandrois." The
Principal of St Mary's or the New College, at this time, was Dr Robert Howie. The
Commissioners appointed consisted of John Archbishop of St Andrews, the Bishops of
Dunkeld, Brechin, and Aberdeen, Lord Carnegie, Sir George Hay, Clerk Register,
Mr John Weymis of Craigtoun, Mr Alex. Gledstanis, Rector of the Universitie of St
Andrews, Mr Andrew Ramsay Minister at Edinburgh, Dr Henry Philp, and Dr Peter
Bruce, or any seven of them, the said John Archbishop of St Andrews being always one.
4 Q
674 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1621.
And he being commandit in his Maiefteis name to conforme hiin felff
thairunto, he promeift, in prefence of the i'aidis Lordis, to obey the fame
accordinglie. And he being deinandit how foonc lie wald be prepairit
and be reddy to mak liis addreffe home, he declairit, that within four-
tecne dayis he wald be prepairit and be reddie to go home. The Lordis
of Secrcit Counfell ordanis the faid Mr Robert, in the meanetyme, to
remaine itill in warde within the faid Caftell qnhill he be prepairit and
reddy to go home, as faid is. And thay fubferyued ane warrand
for his relcif out of warde, quhilk thay ordanit to ly in the Clerkis
handis till the faid Mr Robert be prepairit and reddy to go hame, as
faid is.
His Maiesteis Missiue for the warrand of the Act ahoue
writtin,
[James R.]
Right truttie and right weilbelouit Cofines and Counfellouris, and
right truftie and weilbelouit Counfellouris, We greete vow weill :
Whereas humble fute bathe bene maid vnto Ws in the name of Maifter
Robert Bruce, defiring that he may be remoued oute of the Caftell of
Edinburgh, AVe ar weill pleafit that yow fuffer him to returne to his
awnc houfe, thair to remayne, and not to come to ony place of public!
meeting, aither kirk or other, till the moneth of Aprile nixt enfewing,
vnder the pane of all heigheft contempt of Ws and Owre lawis. And
that at the fyfteene day of Aprile nixt enfewing, or at the furtheft at
the firft of May, according as the wedder fhall fall oute, he enter in
(Jure burgh of lunernes, and thairefter not exceed the boundis of foure
mylles diiianre from the fame, without Oure fpeeiall warrand obtenit
for that effect. In the meane tyme, We cannot tak it weele that
thair be diuers who applaud and encourage him in his contemptuous
(landing oute aganis the reffaued Ordouris of the Churche. And thair-
forc it is Oure pleafoiu* That yow tak notice of niche perfonis, and,
according as yow iliall find thame culpable, proceid aganis thame, by order
of law, whilk recommending to your fpeeiall cair, We bid yow fairweele.
Gevin at Xewmereatt. the 8 day of December 1621.
1021.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 675
CCCCXXIV._THE ARCHBISHOP OF GLASGOW TO HIS MAJESTY
KING JAMES.
Sir,
May it pleis your Sacred and most gratious Maiestie,
The Minifters of the Kirk of Cadder, whiche is within the barony
of G-lafgow, moir nor tuentie yeiris paft, have had affignatioun and
pofleffioun of fyve chalderis wiexuall of the thridis of the Subdenrie of
Glafgow. It wes flrft difponit be Maifter Androw Poluart to Williame
Wylie, writter in Edinburgh, and evicted fra him be Maifter Johne
Bell, laft Miniller at the faid Kirk.1 Now, my Lord Blantyre, by reffoun
of ane generall tak whiche he hath of the teindis of the whole Sub-
denrie, intendis to trouble and pcrfew Maifter Alexander Rowatt, pre-
fent Minifter, of whome by all otheris in thir partis I have greitteft
affiftance in all thofe thingis which concernis your Maiefties fervice and
obedience. If my Lord fall infift and prevaill, the Kirk falbe difplantit,
as haveing onlie thrie chalderis widtuall, and ane hundreth merkis filuer,
whiche no man of worth or good qualitie will accept for a ftipend. For
whiche cauflbs, having no hoip in my Lord Blantyre, the Minifter and I
dois flie to your Maiefties gratious fauour and proteclioun, molt humblie
entreating that your gratious Maieftie wald he pleafed, by ane letter, to
forbid my Lord Blantyre, who had neuer ony pofleffioun of the faid
widtuall, to mak ony truble or pley to the faid Minifter for the fame, in
ony tyme coming ; and by ane vther, to command the Lordis Commif-
fioneris for planting and helping of Kirkis, who are to meit at Edin-
burgh, the tent of this Januarey, to affigne the faid wiftuall to be ane
part of ane conftant and locall ftipend for the faid Kirk. It is greit
pitie that thofe Minifteris who are your Maiefties beft ferwandis by all
1 Mr John Bell, minister of Cadder (before 1599), appears to have been deposed in con-
sequence of a "vox clamosa of diverse sclanders gevin out" against him, in July 1611 ;
and in October 1612 Mr Alexander Rowatt had been settled as pastor, with the people's
consent. — (Presbytery Records of Glasgow.) The Minister of Cadder is not to be con-
founded with his namesake, " old Mr John Bell," who preached at the opening of the
memorable Assembly at Glasgow in 1638, and who had been admitted Minister of the
Tron Kirk, Glasgow, in 1592.
676 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1621.
otheris, and moll helpfull and comfortable vnto ws, mould be moir
troubled and pute in worfe caife then ony otheris, evin by tbofe who
will nocht conforme nor obey thcmfelues, and horteth thame for doing
the fame. Thus, waitting vpoun your Maiefties gratious anfuer, and
eraveing humblie pardone for my boldnes, I befeik God to defend and
bliffyour Maieftie with all happines in this lyfe, and euerlafting glorie,
and reftis
Your Maiefties moft humble fubjecl; and fervant,
Glafgow, the 30 of December 1621. Ja. Glasgow.
To the King his moft excellent Maieftie.
CCCCXXV— THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL TO HIS MAJESTY
KING JAMES.
Most Sacred Souerane,
Thair wes this day a Petitioun gevin to voure Maiefteis Counfaill,
be Maifter Robert Bruce,1 humelie craveing fome eafe and releiff in that
dire&ioun and charge gevin to him for his confyneing within the Burgh
of Innernes, in refpecl; of the indifpofitioun and inhabilitie of his per-
fone, and of his grit aige, and infirmiteis quhilkis ar incident to aige,
quhairwith, as he alledgeis, he is fo far worne, and become fo feeble and
waik, as hardlie may he travell ony quhair ; and he offeris to be con-
fynned in his awne houfe, and twa myllis aboute the fame, and never to
tranfcend the boundis thairof, without youre Maiefteis warrand, as more
particularlie youre Maieftie will perfave be his Petitioun, wbilk we haif
beirwith fend vnto youre Maieftie. Bot becaus the directioun and war-
rand for his confyneing in Innernes, proceidit frome youre Maieftie, we
wald not prefoome to medle thairwith, without youre Maiefteis allow-
1 There is no minute in the Acts of Privy Council of any meeting between the 15th
Uld 21th of January 1G22.
1622.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 677
ance. Onlie this far, we ar to fhowe vnto youre Maieftie, that, be the
fight we had of him, thefe twa dayis he wes broght befoir the Counfell,
we knowe hini to be a far decayed and worne man, not able, by pro-
bable conieclour and appeirance, to live lang; and we ar credibillie
informed that his worldlie eftate is verie waik, althoght he hes concealed
the fame in his Petitioun ; and that he hes nane of his awne to tak the
charge thairof, fwa that his confyneing fo far frome his awne houfe, and
frome attendance on his awne affairs, will altogidder vndoe him. We
write not this as ane motiue and argument to pleade for fauonr vnto
him, bot onlie to latt youre Maieftie knowe quhat we apprehend anent
the difpofitioun of his perfone, and quhat we heir anent his warldlie
eftate and fortounis. Remitting the confideratioun, bothe of tbe one
and the other, to youre Maiefteis moil pious, grave, and princelie
refolutioun, whilk your Maieftie wilbe pleafed to caus be returnit vnto
ws, quhen the importance of your Maiefteis more weyghtie affairis may
afford the occafioun. And fo, with oure vnceffant prayeris vnto God for
your Maiefteis lang lyffe, happie reignne, and profperous eftate, we reft
Youre Maiefteis moft humble and obedient
fubiec~tis and feruitouris,
Al. CanceliA Melros.
S. W. Oliphant. George Hay.
R. Cockburne. Aberdene.
Archibald Naper. Lauderdaill.
A. M. Elphinston. J. Wemis.
Edinburgh, 22 Januair 1622.1
To the King his moft facred and excellent Maieftie.
1 The King's answer to this letter has not been recovered ; but Calderwood states
that " this answer was returned, about the end of Marche : ' It is not for love of Mr
Robert that ye have written, but to interteane a schisme in the Kirk. We will have noe
moe Papiste pilgrimages to Kinaird: he sail goe to Innernesse.' So he was forced to
addresse himself to his confine, and entered in his journey on the 1 8th of Aprile." —
(History, vol. vii. p. 545.)
G78 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G22.
CCCCXXVI.— HIS MAJESTY'S MISSIVE TO THE LORDS OF PRIVY
COUNCIL.
[James R.]
Right truftie and weilbelouit Cofinc and Counfellour, and truftie
and weilbelouit Counfellouris, We greit you weele : Qubairas \\re ax
credibillie informed that Sir Johnc Ogiluie of Craig, George Ogiluie,
his brother, James Gordoun of Letterfurie, and [John] Gordoun
his brother, being cenfured by thofe your Heigh Commiffioun, do not-
withstanding line at libertie, and continew thair aecuftomed behauiour in
Religioun, to the grite contempt of Oure lawis and gouernament, without
any puniiheiuent inflicted vpoun thame, We haif thairfoir thoght goode,
by thofe prefentis, to require yow to caus Oure lawis be deulie putt in
executioun aganis thame, by taking of thair houffes, apprehending and
dctening thair perfonis in faulff cuftodie till thay fall yeild at leail out-
ward obedience to Oure lawis, whiche eirniftlie recommending to youre
cair and diligence, We bid vow fairweele.
Gevin at Newmarkatt, the faxt of Februar 1G22.1
CCCCXXVI!.— THE EARL OF MELROS TO HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES.
Most Sacred Soueiiane,
My knouledge of your Maieflies defire to vnderftand the order
obferued in the Church of Edinburgh tliir holie dayes, giues me hope
of pardon for troubling your Maieftie with this accompt. Ypon Good
Fryday, Doctor Forbes hauing chofen for text the 24 vcrfe of the 2 ch.
1 The Privy Council, on the 19th of March, gave Commission for apprehending Jamea
Gordoun of I.etterfourie. and John Gordoun of Fornaughtie, who had been denuneit
rebellis, and putt to the home, on the 1st of March ; and also George Ogilviej in terms
of the above letter from his Majesty.
1622.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIKS. 679
of the Firft Epiftle of Sant Peter, firft proponed the louable cuftume of
the Primitiue Church to obferue holelie that day ; and therefter dif-
courfed verie zealouflie and learnedlie vpon the Paffion of our Sauiour,
and frutes therof. The next day, Maifter Andro Eamfay, who made
the Sermon of Preparation, took the parable of Inuitation to the Ma-
nage, and punifhment of him who came without his wedding tmrment,
mentioned in the 22 of Sant Mathewe's Gofpell, for his text ; which he
exponed orderlie, efter his learned maner. Vpon Eafter day, Maifter
Patrik Galloway preached vpon the 23 and following verfes of the
11 chep. of the Firft to the Corinthians, and therefter proceeded to the
miniftration of the Holie Communion, affifted by Maifter Andro Eam-
fay ; who performed their charge verie religiouflie, and with fuch obedi-
ence and deuote conformitie of the people, as there wes not any of the
whole Communicants that I could fie or heare to haue receiued the
Holie Sacrament fitting, except two wemen, and ane bafe man, more
worthie to be declared idiot nor to haue been admitted to the Holie
Table.1 I heare, that Maifter William Struthers and Doctor Forbes,
who ferued in the Colledge Church, performed alio their duties faith-
fullie ; and albeit the whole Counfell and Members of Seffion be at
vacance in the cuntrie, fo that of that nomber none wer prefent except
your Maiefties Aduocat, my felf, and fome of my fones, and fcarce
any one gentleman ; yet the order of the feruice being more exact
and perfite nor in preceeding times, the Minifters ar forced to take
tuo Sondayes more for feruing the whole congregations. So, befeeching
God to grant your Maiefty moil perfite and conftant happines, I reft
Your moft facred Maiefties moft humble and
faithful fubiect and feruant,
Edinburgh, 22 April [1622,] Melros.
To the Kings moft facred Maieftie.
1 Calderwood details with more minuteness the mode in which the Easter Communion
was observed by persons in the different churches of Edinburgh, at this time. — (History,
vol. vii. p. 546.)
680 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1622.
CCCCXXVIII.— HIS MAJESTY'S MISSIVE TO THE LORDS OF PRIVY
COUNCIL.
[James R.]
Rio-ht truftie and right weilbelouit Cofines and Counfellouris,
and right truftie and weilbelouit Counfellouris, We greete yow weill.
Quhairas We ar credibillie informed that one Andro Haddwie of Glai'gw
and his wyffe, haif wittinglie and willinglie gevin harbour and reffett to
a trafficquing Jefuit, the impunitie quhairof might hairten that wiked
and pernitious forte of people more bauldlie to go on in peruerting Oure
goode fubieclis in Religioun, and withdrawing thame frome thair dewti-
full obedience to Ws : It is thairfoir Oure pleafour, That yow eaus Oure
Juft ice-Depute, and the Erie of Wigtoun, Sir William Levingftoun of
Ivilfaithe, and Sir George Erfkine of Innerteill, as affeffouris to him,
to tak cognitioun of the caus of the faid Hadduye and his wyffe, who
being by ordinair tryall found guiltie, We ar weele pleafed that thay
be banifhed oute of that Oure Kingdome during all the tyme of thair
lyffe. And not doubting of your cair heirin, We bid you fairweele.1
Gevin at Oure Mannour of Theobaldis,
the xviij day of Mai j 1G22.2
1 Tho Privy Council, on the 4th of Juno, inserted this letter in the Register, as the
w.inand for an Act passed that day, directing Andro Haddowie and his wyffe to be put
tu an assize, and banished for rcssett of Jesuits; it being stated, that " laitlie a traf-
fequing Jcsuite, named George Mortymer, was apprehendit in thair house." — (Acta,
fol. 70.)
2 It may be noticed, that the Privy Council, on the 12th of February and 12th of
March 1022, issued Commissions to Alexander Bishop of Murray and Patrick Bishop of
Ross, for putting a stop to superstitious practices, which still prevailed in their dioceses :
— " Forsameikle as althoght the banting, frequenting, and vseing of pilgrimageis to Chap-
pellis, Wellis, Croceis, and suehe otheris Monumentis of Idolatrie, and setting furthe of
bonefyres, singing of Carrellis within and aboute kirkis at certane seasones of the yeir, be
probibite and forbiddin be the Kingis Maiestie, and his Estatis convenit in the Parlia-
ment haldin at Edinburgh in the moneth of October, the yeir of God 1581 yeiris, &c. —
aevirtheles thair is," &c.
1022.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIES. 681
CCCCXXIX.— THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO JOHN MURRAY
OF LOCHMABEN.
Sir,
Thefe are to advertife yow of the procedingis on the 24 of May,
to qhich day I had warned fundry Papiftis, and certain of our Puritan
Minifteris. Sir Jhon Ogilvy comperit, and after ane excufe made for
his contumacie, vpon qhiche he was denuncit his Maiefties rebel, he
acknowledgit his defedtioun, or rather profeffit his equivocatioun in the
oath he had formerly made for Eeligioun, and fo declarit he wes, and
had ben, ane Catholick Eoman, and did fo continue. After monv
fpeechis, the conclufioun we took with him wes, that he fuld enter in
Dundy the firft of Julj nexte, and abyd thair the fpace of a moneth, to
conferre with the Bifchop of Brechin, and try if he culd find a refolu-
tioun to his doubtis and fcruples, qhiche if he fuld not, he hes pro-
mifed, and by his fubfcriptioun obliflit him felf to departe the countrey
before the term of Martimes, vnder the pain of a thowfand merkis.
Francis Ogilvy, his brother, fubfcryved and gaif fatiffa&ioun.
Letterfury Gordoun, qhom we denuncit for his not appearing to be
tryed anent the mafle laid in his houfe the fyft of November laft, and
the feaft qhairof I advertifit in winter thei kept, comperit alfo, and
denyit the fact : The witneflis chargit cam not, alledging dyverfe excufes,
qhairvpon we ordainit the Bifchops of Abirden and Murray to examin
them in the north, qhair thei dwel, and return thair report to ws the
26 of Junj, and warned him to compeir the fam day and anfwer for his
apoftafie ; for I had made a promife to the Marquife to challendge for
no furder at this tym then the Meffe denyit, and to dimit him free.
Otheris of them that wes fummond apperit not, qhom we ar to
denunce : Thair infolence in the north partis is excedinge, open con-
tempt of Preaching and Minifteris, infulting againft the King of Bohem ;
and afking the Minifteris qhat good thair prayeris haue done ? feafting
the Spaniardis that ar com from Dunkirk to thefe partis, and fcoffing al
that profefft Eeligioun. Thir good newis that cam lately of the vi&orie
in the Palatinat haif compefced them fumqhat, and thei begin to fear a
4 K
682 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G22.
turn. The pedagogue that bringis vp the Marquis younge children is
gifen vp excommunicat. I wrote crncitly to him at this tyra to difpatch
him from Lis company, elfe I wold complain. I know not qhat he wil
doe, but I ftrive qhat I can to fal in qucftioun with him.
I had fummoned to the fain day three of our Minifteris, that I may
truly fay doc alfe muche hurt to Religioun as ether Preift or Jefuit
dois.1 Mr J-bon Dikis wes excufit by attending Mr Jhon Carmichail,
that thci fay is dying at Edinburgh; Mr Ephraim Melvil comperit and
anfwerit that he had obeyit al the actis, faif that of kneling, and excufed
him felf by his parochineris. The Minifter of Largo, callit Achinlek,2
qho at his admiffioun had fworn and fubferyvit obedience, confeffit he
had not as yit praclifed, but faid he wes perfwading his parochineris to
it. Becaufe the firft of thir Mr Ephraim had begun obedience, it wes
thocht ynough to command him obedience in the reft, vnder the pain
of depofitioun. Achinlek hafing the Communioun to gif at Witfonday,
is chargit then to put in practife the aclis, or to leave the Miniftrie.
For the Kirk of Abdy, qhiche is at Lindoris prefenting, my Lordis
of Mortoun and Stormont, that haif the burthen of his eftate, prefentit
to me ane Mr Robert Dowglas:3 the Erie of Mortoun cam with him
hither. I told his Lordfhip that he wes welcom, and that I wes glade
to haif the occafioun to doe him plefure, and hafing called the young
man, afkit him qhat his difpofitioun wes in the matteris qucftioned in
the Kirk ; he anfwerit that he wold be obedient : then I told him how
the formis of thofc men wer to promife much and perform nothinge,
qhairvpon he behovit to gif his oath and fubferiptioun. He excufit
him fell' that his fubferiptioun wold be fcandalous; but I laid we had no
leffe reafon to requyr the fubferiptioun of Minifteris for obedience of
Church Aclis, then the fubferiptioun of laicks for thair profeffioun in
Religioun. After fom infiftinge wes made with me to overfee his fub-
1 Of the Ministers here complained of, as doing such hurt to religion, by their perti-
!i:icic ]- :m!1i. ri nee to the Prcsliyterian form of church government, Dykes was Minister
of Kilr. amy, Carmichael of Kilconquhar, and Melvill of Pittcnwcem.
- Mr Aiidn u Auchinleck was admitted in 1615: lie was translated from Largo to
Dundee in L642.
' Afterwards Minister of Kirkaldy, and one of the most eminen I bj terian clergy.
1622.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 683
fcriptioun, I declared that I wold doe alfe much for my Lord of Mor-
toun as any Nobleman, but in that his Lordfhip wold pardon me, I
wold not for any refpect overfee it. So my Lord, that is a very difcreet
Nobleman, faid that he was fatiffeit with that qhich I fpak to his
freind, and Cnce he refufit to fatiffie, he wold only defyne that no other
fuld be refavit in the place on better conditionis. My Lord of Stor-
mont lies now prefentit ane Murray1 to the fam place, with my Lord
Mortonis advyfe, quho offeris al obedience ; and his qualificatioun, I
think, falbe queftioned by our Minifteris, and thair I fal haif another
pley with them. But we muft endure, feeing no end of troubles,
qhairof the true caufe lies ben fo oft menit, and fo litle hearkened to,
that I muft ceafe to mention the fam, and refolue to live and die in
vexatioun, and qhiche I am moil fory for to behold the ruin of a
Church heer throw the folly of perverfe Minifteris, and the egging on
of enemyis to both thair and our dcftru6tioun. But of this no more at
this tym. I reft
Your afiurit ever,
Darfy, 27 May 1622. Sanctandrews.
To my very honourabill good freind,
Jhon Murray of Lochraaben, of his
Maiefties bedchamber.
CCCCXXX— THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO HIS MAJESTY
KING JAMES.
Most Sacked and most Graciouse Sofceraigne,
I cannot expreffe the contentment that al your Maiefties good
i Mr Andrew Murray, of BalvairtI, was admitted Minister of Abdic in October 1C22.
At the Coronation of Charles the First, in 1633, he was knighted ; in 1641, he was
created Lord Balvaird ; and in the following year he succeeded to the title and estates,
a3 Viscount of Stormont. He died in 1644, but notwithstanding the honours conferred
upon him, he was ejected from his Ministry in 1638.
684 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1622.
fubioetis, and my iclf particularly, lies rcfavit in the preferring of Mr
Thomas Ilenderfoun, CommhTaire of Edinburgh, to this vacant place
of Seffioun, alfwel for the regarde thej fee your Maieftie takis of thofe
places, to half them lilled with men of knowledge and confcience, as
becaufe it wil ferve muche for ane incitatioun of otheris to the fiudy of
learning and virtue, qhen thej perfaife it not to mine the juft rewarde,
and a greater refpect had thairto, then to the importun follicitatiouns
of otheris. My felf hes fo much the more caufe, that I affuredly know
the fervice qhairwith I am trufted in the Churche fal by this mean
refaif no final fupply, his affectioun to the advancement of the Churche,
and your Maiefties fervice in it, being fo lincere, as by a longe experi-
ence we haif found it to be. Qhairfore, as I haif by this no fmal
encouragement to proceid in the troublefom bufines of our Churche,
I mutt humbly begge your Maiefties favoure to offer my moll fub-
mifl'e and humble thankis in his behalfe, befeeching Almyghtie God
longe and ever to bleffe your Sacred Maieftie with al bleffingis of
Heaven and earth, that both this Churche and al other Reformed within
the Chriftian world may ftil be happie in your Maiefties royal favoure
and protectioun.
Your Maiefties moft humble and
affectionat ferviteur,
Sam tandrews.
Darfy, the lull of May 1G22.
To his moft Sacred Maieftie.
CCCCXXXI.— THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO JOHN MURRA1
OF LOCHMABEN.
S.K,
A- ye advertifed, 1 haif prefumed to offer vnto his Maieftie my
1622.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIES. 685
humble thankis for bis preferment of the Commiffar Mr Thomas Hen-
derfon,1 to the place of Seffioun, qhich dois more good to his Maiefties
fervice every way then wel I can expreffe. But, alaffe, qhat ar my
thankis, or any thinge I can promife or effect worthe, being fo infinitly
obliged as I am by benefitis vndeferved, al being duty, and leffe than
duty, that I am able to perform.
I refavit with your letter ane other from his Maieftie, qhairto my
former that ar com to your handis ere now, haif gifen fom fatiffactioun ;
and ftill falbe careful bothe to doe and advertife of the procedingis we
mak, qhiche I truft in God, fal not be infufficient, thocht the oppo-
litioun we haif be great, and more vnder hand, then is or dar be
avowed. If my health doe any way fuffer, I wil, by Godis help, this
nixte vacance fee yow, and mak bold to fchew qhat wilbe the only
remede of al our croffingis. So leaving to wryt of my own particular
til I try the effect thairof, I reft,
Youris ever affurit at power,
Sakctandrews.
Darfy, the laft of May 1622.
To my very honourabill good freind, J lion
Murray of Lochmaben, of his Maies-
ties bedchamber.
1 Mr Thomas Henderson of Chesters, sou of Dr Ed want Henryson, one of the Lords
of Session, had filled the office of one of the Commissaries of Edinburgh from the year
1597. On the death of Sir Lewis Craig, in 1622, he was raised to the Bench, as a reward
for his services in advancing the cause of Episcopacy, and soon afterwards obtained the
honour of knighthood. The Earl of Melros, in a letter to John Murray, expresses like
gratitude and satisfaction at Henderson's promotion : — " Maister Thomas Henderson's
learning and carriage in the Commissariat, and faithfulness in his bypast services to his
Majesty, promises continewance and increse of his honest endeavours in this more
eminent place, wherein he sail have my best counsels and encouradgements." — (Melros
Papers, vol. ii. p. 453.)
G86
ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING
[1G22.
CCCCXXXII.— UIS MAJESTY'S MISSIVE TO THE LORDS OF PRIVY
COUNCIL.
Apud Edinburgh, Sexto Junij 1G22.
Scderunt-
Thesauraib.
MORTOUN.
Wyntoun.
Mei.ros.
B. St Androis.
Lauderdaill.
Air.
Carnegie.
Mr of Elphinstocn.
Preuie Seale.
Justice Clark.
Aduocat.
Kilsaithe.
Inxeiiteill.
Redhocs.
Craigtoun.
FoSTERSAIT.
Mr Peter Young.
Conseruatovr.
Sir Joiixne Scott.
Anent the preventing the growthe of Poperie.
The quliilk day, the letter vnderwrittin, figned be the Kingis Maief-
tie, and direetit to the Lordis of his Maiefteis Preuie Counfell, wes
prefentit to the faidis Lordis, and red in thair audience, and thav
promeift to gif obedience thereto : Off the quhilk letter the tennour
followis : —
James R.
Right truftie and right weilbelouit Cofines and Counfellouris,
and right truftie and weilbelouit Counfellouris, We greite yow weelc.
"We wer pleafit of laite to write to yow to direcl;e oure Juftice Depute,
and twa of your number as Affeffouris to him, to putt ane Haddny in
Glafgu to ane affife for the rcflett of a Jefuite : And becaus that kynd
of people ceafeth not daylie to practife and perucrt oure goode fubiectis,
\\ c haif writtin to the two Arcbiebifhoppis, willing thamc anes euerie
liallf yeir to aduerteis yow of the cftaitc of thair fcuerall prouinceis in
that behalff. It is thairfoir Oure pleafour that yow and the faidis
Arcbiebifhoppis aduife and refolue vpoun fomc fuche folidc cours as in
youre iudgement lalbe nwil fitt to fuppres the prefent, and preuent the
new grouthc of Poperie in that oure kingdome. And according as
1622.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 687
ony new accident fliall frome tyme to tyme fall oute, or the faidis
Archiebiflioppis fliall aduerteis yow, that yow tak fuche prefent order
as yow fliall think the caus to require. And quhat outlier the faidis
Archiebiflioppis fliall aduerteis, or yow conclude thairin, We exfpect by
yow oure Secretaire to vnderftand. And this We doubt hot yow will
haif a fpeciall cair of, that thairby the world may fee that We ftryke
with the fword of juftice equalie aganis bothe Papift and Puritane,
that thairby no iuft imputatioun may be layed vpoun Oure procedingis
as a caus of the increfce of Papiftrie. Fairweele.
Gevin at Oure mannour of Theobauldis,
the 27 of Maij 1622.
To Oure right traifl and right weilbelouit Cofines
and Counfellouris, and to Oure right truftie
and weilbelouit Counfellouris, the Earle of Dun-
fermlyne, Oure Chanceller, and remanent Earlis,
Lordis, and otheris of Oure Preuie Counfell in
Oure Kingdome of Scotland.
CCCCXXXIII.— THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO JOHN MURRAY
OF LOCHMABEN.
SlKE,
I cam to the town of Edinburgh this morninge, qhair I found
Mr Jhon Carmichael1 buryed the night before, one of our great trou-
bleris ; my Lord of Glafgow and the Chancellar dangeroufly ficke ; but
the Chancellar lyis at Pinkie. If it fal out that he be takin away, his
Maieftie hcs occafioun, by fetling that place, to fecure his affairis heir
from al oppoiitioun heirafter. Thairforc I fal befeeche yow to defyre his
Maieftie to regard the effecting of his own deflgnes, more then other
menis pleafures, and to chufe fom one that is according to his own
1 He was admitted Minister of Newburn, in Fife, in 1594 ; and was translated to Kil-
eonquhar, in the same presbytery, in August 1G03.
688 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1622.
heart, ii' fo it i'al voide. As for my own bufines, ray Lord Mar fayis to
Sir -lames Balye, that he mufl haif his Maiefties expreffe command to
follow his firft directioun, qhich, if it be not already fent, I pray yow
furder with all diligence, for Sir James affuris me the warrand muft be of
new vndcr his Maiefties own hand. I can fay no more, but reft,
Youris ever affurit,
Edinburgh, the 6 Junij 1622. Sanctandrews.
To my very honourabill good freind, Jhon
Murray of Lochmaben, of his Maiefties
bedchamber.
CCCCXXXIV.— THE BISHOP OF GALLOWAY TO JOHN MURRAY OF
LOCHMABEN.
Rycht Honokabill.
My UAIRTIEST SALUTATIONS REMEMBRET.
I wrait to yow a good tyme fins annent Sir Eobert Gordon's pour-
pois concerning the Abacie off Glenluce. He luikit that wpon the
recommendation maid to his Maicftie off his richtis off erection off that
benefice, by thefe Confellors and Commiffionars who had recawit direc-
tion from his Hienes to wieu and tak notice off them, to haiff recawit
fome rewaird for it, and fo to haiff demittit all his rycht in fawor off me
and my fucceffors, for the help of that benefice. Bot finding his Maie-
ftie, as he fays, fomewhat cauld and ilaw to grant him any Cut fur it, be
is come hither and lies fchawne me plainlie that he will mak fut be law
for the recouuerie oil' his awin, and was with diligence to half ferwit
inhibition wpon the fruits and rents oft' this yeir, and fo maid the
benefice unprofitable to me ; wherthrow I fould recaue gret difaduantage
in refpecl that the laft yeir, by impofition oil' the Lordis, I was ordenit
to geft' to Jhone Craffurd, to quytt his pretendit tak maid to him off
the teinds oft' it be my prcdeceftor, to the grett hurt oft* the benefice, the
1622.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 689
fowme off ijm marks. Bot I haiff dclt with him erneftlie to hald aff till
I gett word fra Court what his Maiefties pleafure is heirannent. Iff he
recouuer it, as rny lawers fays that he is able to doo, iff he gett rycht,
in refpect off his good and fufficient rycht off erection, it will wndoo that
benefice, and I muft be forcit to quytt the charge. My requeft to yow,
Sir, is that it may pleafe yow acquent his Maieflie with this mater, and
let his Hienes wnderftand whow hard it Hands with me ather to want
it or to enter in proces for defence off it, and at your firft good occafion,
efter his Maiefties anfwer, to latt me haiff yowrs, for it requyris
diligence. So excufing my bauldnes that thus fould fafche yow withe
fuche buffines, I coinitt yow to the grace and lowe off God Almichtie,
and refts
Your afiurit freind at ferwice,
This 13 June 1622. A. B. of Gallouay.
Edinburgh.
To my verie honorable goode friend, Johne
Murray of Lochmaben, Gentleman of his
Maiefties Bedchamber.
CCCCXXXV.— THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO JOHN MURRAY
OF LOCHMABEN.
Sir,
I fee your care for my bufines by your letter I refavit this day,
and muft render you thankis for it, qhiche is al I can, and too litle for
fuch kyndnes. Nothing is lyk to be done befor Archibald Primroffe
cumming, qhiche we expecl; every day.
Yow naif befor this tym vnderftood that the Chancellour dyed on
Sonday laft. I wil not wryt of the dyverfe humoris and rumoris that
ar heer, but I pray God his Maieflie mak a good choyfe, as I know he
4 s
690 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1622.
wil, that we may fervc with more quyctnes and content then we did in
thir laft tymis. My own opinioun I wrote vnto yow, and fincc, haif
talked thairof with my Lord Melroffe himfelf, qho is wel peremptorie
in his rcfufe and deelyning that charge. If that cannot he, I wiiche it
may fal in the handis of fum man that lovis religioun and is not phan-
taftical, fuch as I think my Lord of Mortoun to be, for he is a noble
man of good prefentatioun, fpeakis wel, and I truft fal keep ane equal
courfe to his Maicfties good lykinge. My Lord of Aire,1 I know, lies
written vnto yow qhat his love perfwadis him to doe,2 but I befeeche yow
tak no heed to it, for it is altogither vnfitting.
In this aclioun purfewit be my Lord of Mar againft Lord Elphinftoun,
thair hes ben a great delay vfed, vpon a letter purchafed to my Lord
of Dury for fupplying the Advocatis place in this caufe, qhairin it
feemis thei haif enformed his Maieftie that it hes ben the cuftom in
fubftitutioun of one in the Advocatis place, vpon fuch occafiounis, that
fum of the Lordis them felfis behooved to plead for his Maicfties entres.
But that never wes vfed, and feemis a plain derogatioun of the authoritie
of the Houfe, and drawis after it a number of inconvenientis ; but I
leave this and other particidaris to thair informatioun qhom it con-
cernis ; only, I wryt of it, becaufe I remember the Elphinftonis fervice
in the late Parliament, and the courfe thei fal keep in our effairis of the
Churche. I defyre no man wronged againft juftice, but they qho intend
to ferve his Maieftie, and haif gifin proof of it, oght not be delayit for
fuch menis plcfuris ; yit al this is referrit to liis Maicfties plefure. If
the Advocat fubftitut, as he is ready, one of the Advocatis of the Houfe,
as wes the form, qhom the party fal chufe, it feemis to many beer
mfficient.
Clotburn wes with me, and we agreed vpon conditionis ; but I find
the gentleman very vnable to perform any thinge : and my Lord of
1 William, seventh Lord Crichtoun of Sanquhar, on the 2d February 1622. was created
Viscount of Ayr ; and in June 10.'!:$, Earl of Dumfries.
■ Namely, tin' promotion of Spottiswood himself to be Lord High Chancellor, in the
room of Alexander Ear] of Dunfermline, who died at his house of Pinkie, 16th June 1622.
Sir George Hay of Kinfauns was appointed at this time; the King's letter of nomination
to the Privy Council, 9th July 1622, was presented at a meeting on the 16th of that
month.
1622.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIES. 691
Aire tellis me that your obligatioun is impignorat to him for Jm lib.
But if thei end as thei haif promifed, that falbe done qhiche ye haif
directed in that parte. This in hafte, being privie to this pacquet.
I reft
Youris ever affurit
Edinburgh, 19 Junj 1622. Sanctandrews.
To my very honourabill good freind,
Jlion Murray of Lochmaben, of
his Maiefties Bedchamber.
CCCCXXXVL— ACT OF THE PRIVY COUNCIL.
Apud Edinburgh, xxv Junij 1622.
Anent the Ministeris Stipendis in Orknay.
Forsamekle as it is vnderftand to the Lordis of Secreit Counfell
that thair is fome Minifteris in Orknay whofe yeirlie ftipendis, extend-
ing to the fowme of ane thoufand fax hundreth pundis, ar dew, to be
payit oute of his Maiefties rentis and dewiteis of Orknay : And the
faidis Lordis of Secreit Counfell being loathe that the poore Minifteris
falbe withdrawne frome thair' flokkis and kirkis to come heir to this
Cuntrie for craving payment of thair faidis ftipendis : Thairfoir, and for
thair eafe and releif in this point, the faidis Lordis ordanis Sir Johnne
Buquhannane knight, his Maiefteis Chalmerlane of Orknay and Yet-
land, to mak payment yeirlie, during the yeiris of his tak, to the faidis
Minifteris of thair ftipendis foirfaidis, extending to the fowme aboue-
written, oute of the firft and reddieft of the dewitie addebtit be him to
his Maieftie : Anent the payment quhairof thir prefentis, with the
acquittanceis of the faidis Minifteris, falbe vnto the faid Sir Johnne ane
fufficient exoneratioun, warrand, and difcharge.
G92 ORIGINAL LETTEES RELATING [1G22.
CCCCXXXVIL— TIIE ARCHBISHOP OF GLASGOW TO MR ROBERT
BOYD OF TROCHRIG.
Reverend and well beloved Brother,
Mr John Cameron is now come to this City and entered in the
Colledge, and came in haft from his Maiefty. Invited by my Lord Chan-
cellor lie came home with him, fo that he hath not brought with him
his Majefty's prefentatioun. Thefe are therfor to requeft you to fend
unto me the prefentatioun ye had of his Majefty to the Principality of
this College,1 or if ye will not trutt me with it for a fhort time, at leaft
a juft copy thereof, that according therunto I may caufe draw up ane
for him after the fame or fome better manner, which trailing that you
will not rcfufe to do : Remember my duty to your Lady. I commend
you to the mercy and bleffmg of God, and refts
Your very loving Brother,
Glafgow, Auguft 7 [1622.] Ja. Glasgow.
To his reverend and well beloved Brother,
Mr Robert Boyd of Trochrigg.
' In consequence of the stringent measures employed to enforce conformity to the
Forth Articles, Boyd, in July 1621, had resigned his office as Principal of the University
of Glasgow; and was succeeded by Cameron, Professor of Divinity at Saumur, a very
eminent theologian, but who held the office of Principal for little more than twelve
months. The following note, about that time, from Andrew Boyd, Bishop of Argyle,
urging him to Conformity, may be subjoined : —
Cousin, — I am sorry to hear you should give any occasion of oflence. It's no fitt
time to mentain any separation in the true Christian Church. The bearer hcirof, your
faithful] friend, will give you his best advice; I pray to God you may hearken. Cousin,
I will be glad to hear from you, and more glad to hear you will Conform yourself, as is
fitting. 1 wish you much happiness, and will ever rest
Your loving Cousin to command,
A. Bom
Oatlands, 3 of July 1021.
1622.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 693
CCCCXXXVni.— THE ARCHBISHOP OF GLASGOW TO THE VISCOUNT
OF ANNAND.1
My verry honorabill gud Lord,
I vret onfe befor to your Lordfliip in favors of this young gentle-
man, quho is as my Nephew to me. Nou heiring be himfelf that my firft
letter was loft, and being informit that he hes vaitit long to his grit
lofe, I do earneftlie entreate your Lordihip to favor and help him in al
his honeft buflines, quhairvith he vil aquent your Lordfliip quhen he
fall have occafione. Your Lordfliip may fie by this requeft for my freind
how bold I am, and quhat truft I have in your Lordfhip's favor ; vpon
quhich relying, I hope I fall be pardonit, and he be your Lordfliip fall
be helpit and furtherit in all his lawfull adois, even as I fall treuly
remane
Your Lordfhip's obliged and affured to ferve you,
Glafgow, the tuentie of Auguft 1622. Ja. Glasgow.
To my verry honorabill gud Lord
my Lord Wicount of Annan.
CCCCXXXIX.— THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL TO HIS MAJESTY
KING JAMES.
Most Sacred Souerane,
By a letter fend heir frome the Archiebifhop of Glafgw, we ar
certifyed that Mortymer, the Jcfuite, prifonner in Glafgw, is havelie
1 John Murray of Lochiuaben was raised to the Peerage about the 28th of July 1622.
by the title of Viscount of Annand ; and in March 1625, he was promoted to the higher
dignity of Earl of Annandale.
694 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1022.
difeafed with ane appeiring deadlie confumptioun, and that haueing
i'pcnt all tliat he had, hcs not now the meanis to intertcnie him felff,
and that he daylie cryia to be fend to France, offering to &6fc him felff
vpoun the parrell of his heade nevir to returne ; and the Archiebifhop
inclvnnis that he falbo fend away vpoun this fame conditioun, yf fo it
Iball pleis youre Maieftie to think meete. And thairfoir, thefe ar
humelie to requeift youre Maicflie to latt ws knowe youre Maieftcis will
and pleafour in this mater, that accordinglie we may conforme oure
felffis thairunto. And fo, eontincwing oure vnceflant and eirnift prayeris
vnto God for youre Maieftcis lang and happie reignne, we reft
Youre Maiefteis moft humble and obedient
fubieclis and fcruitouris,
George Hat. Wintoun.
Melros. Perthe.
Mar. Roxburgh.
Lauderdaill.
Edinburgh, 2S Augufl 1622.
To the King his moft facred and
excellent Maieftie.
CCCCXL.— HIS MAJESTY'S MISSIVE TO THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL.
| James 11.]
Bight truftic and right wcilbclouit Cofines and Counfellouris,
and right truftie and wcilbclouit Counfcllouris, We greete yow week
WTiereaa We ax credibillie informed that the Jcfuite Mortymcr, now
prifonner in Oure Citie of Glafgu, is fo hauclie difeafed as it is feared
that he lhall hardlie yf euer efchaip, and becaus We do not defire the
lines of ony of that foirt of people, yf We may be fecurcd frome ony
hanne whiche thay might do by the peruerfioun of ony of Oure goode
1622.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 695
fubie&is in thair duetie to God and Ws, We ar weele pleafed that yow
caus the faid Mortymer be tranfported to fome place oute of Oure
dominionis, with certificatioun to him that yf, at ony tyme heirafter, he
fiiall returne thether without Oure fpeciall licenfe, it falbe capitall vnto
him : And not doubting of youre conformitie to Oure pleafour in this
point, We bid yow fairweele.1
Gevin at Our Mannour of Hauering, the xij day of September 1622.
CCCCXLI THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO VISCOUNT
ANN AND.
My very honorabill good Lord,
I know befor this tym your Lordihip hes vnderitood by my
Lord Regiiler, that nothing is done for delyvering thefe moneyis that
my Lord Marques fuld haif refavit, and that fo I am difapointed of that
qhiche I expedted: thei promife to Lis Lordihip fourfcore thowfand
pundis Scotis fourten dayis befor the next term, or fourten after, and
it is lyk ynough thei fal caft of longer, qhairby I cannot affure my felf of
any thinge : in the mean tym the annualis fal confum al, and mak his
Maiellies benefit to me vnprofitable. I caufed deal with Archbald
Primroffe, and haif obtained of him, that if my Lord Marquefe may be
induced to fubfcryve the warrandis enclofed, he wil fatiffie me in due
time of my parte, qhairin your Lordihip wilbe plefit to tak fum pain if
your Lordihip find it expedient ; but I feare his Lordihip offend fo with
thir delayis as he fcarfe agree vnto it. I haif written to his Lordihip a
letter, to gif him thankis for his favour, and generally intreated his
Lordihip's furtherance ; but the particular your Lordihip may move as
1 The Privy Council, on the 18th of September, passed an Act in accordance with the
above letter, ordaining the Archbishop, Provost, and Baillies of the City of Glasgow " to
caus attend the coinmoditie of some ship going from Glasgu or Air to France, or ony
other pairt oute of his Majesties dominionis, and to putt the said Mortymer aboarde of
the same ship to be transported," &c.
69G ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G22.
from your fclf, and if lie condifcend vnto it, caufe James Dowglas or
fom of your own Scerctaryis to wryt them out in a better Land.
If this fucceed not, and that your Lonliliip fee no certanty how I
fall ie payed this way, I wold wifche to ho affigned to the moncyis of
Edinburghj for thei pay ten thowfand lib. ycerly, qhairof three yecris
ar to cum, and for difcharging fom profit is thairof I wold look to be
advanced by them, at leaft, haif thefe to qhom I am indebted tak to
thair payment: and for this a new precept mufl be to the Thefaurer to
affigne your Lordihip to thair moneyis, in refpeet of your difapointment
in the other precept. If Mr Jhon Hay be not cammed away, your
Lonliliip may in this cafe talk with him thairof, and mak him your
Lordihip's agent to refaif the fam, as Sir James Balyc wes in the other ;
but I mufl remit al this to your Lordihip's care and judgment, that
knowis qhat is belt in the crand. I had thoght to haif fent a fervant
to attend this as I wrote lafl, but feing tbat wold haif ben chargeable,
and that I found my Lord Regiftcr careful ynough to haif fatiffeit me
if he bad cummed fpeed Limfelf, I forbeare to fend any. I wil not
meddle in thair matteris, but it feemis to many that my Lord Marquis
his precept myght haif ben fatiffeit with Idle noyfe and more fpeedily.
I look to hear in this bufines from your Lordihip qhat I fal look for.
As to thefe thingis I wrote lail of to his Maieftie, the clamoris con-
tinue in this countrcy, and ar foflerit by malcontentis. They haif
written to me from the well partis to conven the Bifchops and the
fpecialis of the Miniflrie to conferre vpon the appearing dangeris to
religioun; but I bail' difiwaded this, and written bothc to them, and al
the partis of the countrcy, that thei tak matteris not rightly, and
warned them to be quyet and attend thair callingis. We arc ane il
difpofed people, and lb can not but expect fom great mifcheif. I pray
God lave bis Maieftie from thair wifchis, and gif ws to enioy him longe,
and bliffe your Lordihip with al happines. So I rell
Your Lordihip's allured good freind,
to be commandit at power,
Darfy, the 1G Sept. 1622, Sajtct.v-NDEEws.
1622.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 697
My Lord, I liaif fent your Lordfhip the very writ that Archbald with
his own hand fent to me ; qhairof the firft is to contein his name ; the
fecond is a warrand to delyver the money to me : your Lordfhip wil
eafily tak vp how thei ar to be written over, if yow find my Lord
Marquis willing vnto it.
To my very honourabill good Lord, my
Lord the Vifcount of Annand, gentle-
man of his Maiefties Bedchamber.
CCCCXLII.— THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO MR ROBERT
BOYD OF TROCHRIG.
Loving Brother,
While I was purpofcd to draw you to Saint .Andrews, and had
written to my Lord Bifhop of Argyle, yourcufine, to that purpofe, I
have heard of a treaty the Town of Edinburgh have with you for thair
College,1 and am lorry to have failed of my own purpofe. I fuppofe I
muft ever prefer the weil of that houfe of Edinburgh to all other, and
fo will not envy them that happinefs. Now being required to confent
to your plantatioun there, I have taken occafion to advertife his Maiefty
of the Town's defire, for I know his Maiefty was fomewhat difpleafed
with your remove from Glafgow, taking it to have proceeded on your
part on thir late introduced Rites in our Church, wherwith as no man
of your underftanding can be much moved, fo I am of opinion that the
1 On the 18th October 1622, Boyd was elected by the Provost and Magistrates of
Edinburgh to be Principal of their University, " vacand be dimission of Mr Patrik
Sandis, lait Principall thairof." But having manifested no greater disposition to Conformity
this year than in 1621, his election was not approved of by his Majesty, who, by his war-
rand, commanded the Magistrates to urge Boyd either to conform, or to expel him from
his place ; and, on the last of January 1623, he resigned the office simpliciter in the hands
of the Provost. The Life of Boyd, in Wodrow's Biographical Collections, printed by
the Maitland Club, extends to pp. 361, in 4to, and includes a number of interesting
letters from persons of note.
4 T
698 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1622.
fight of your conformity with thofe worthy men that are paftors there
may he a great occafion of fetlirig the people in their doubts, and draw
our Brctheren to that confent which is meet to be in our Church ; and
in that reipect, I muft be earncft with you not to fhew yourfelf diffieil
where you may be the occafion of fo great a good, both to the Church
in general, and to that City in particular. Neither will I at this time
labour to move you by any pcrfuafions that I can give, feeing your own
mind does tell you what an ill it is to impropriate thofe gifts wherewith
God hath bleffed you to yourfelf, being conferred for the ufe of others,
and upon inch occafions as thofe that have troubled us thefe years paft,
to draw back and feperat. I know you yourfelf will not efteem it law-
full. To end therfor, that this begun bufinefs may happily proceed at
the return of his Maiefty's good pleafure, and that your entry with thofe
worthy men, your colleagues, may be fuch as the happy peace that is
amongft them may continue, I ihall befeech you to difpofe your mind
and affections to embrace the fervice which to God's Church may be
profitable, and fo for the prefent I reft,
Tour affectionat Brother,
Saint Andrews.
Dairfie, the 17 of October 1622.
To my very reverend and loving Brother,
Mr Robert Boyd of Trochorege.
CCCCXLIII.— MR ANDREW DUNCAN, MINISTER OF CRAIL, TO THE
ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS, WITH THE ANSWER.
My Lord,
It micht be fupponed that, feing I haue bein fa many yeiris
rader cenfure of banifhement and imprifonment, I micht now at laft, in
my auld dayes, luik for fuin pitie and cafe; and fo meikle the rather in
1622.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 699
refpect that favour is now extendit to enemies of the trewth and eftaitt,
commandemcnt beand gevin out to fett thame at lairge out of thair
wardis and prifonis. We that ar Chriftis fervandis and minifteris then
micht be worthellie blamit, if we expectit les nor thefe haue already obtenit.
I muft thairfoir requeift it wald now at laft pleas you no to truble me
altho I go and feme my Maifter in that calling he hes fett me in. King
Adonibezekis judgement fould affray merciles fawUis. Hall binkis ar
fliddrie, ye knaw, and earthlie courtis ar kittill, and kingis minions ar
fett vp on heigh fkelffis, hot flipperie and dangerous. I haue fein one
richt high mounted in your roume and cours, that gatt a foull and
fchamefull fall. Pittie your poore faulh and luik vp to Him that can
doe this ; the Michticft. I befeik yow remember ye hawe ouerthrawn
my pure eftait ; bot quhat rek of that ? Ye haue hinderit Godis wark to
be done in many and many places. The Lord of Heaven giue yow
remors. I befeik yow, as ye tender your awin faluatioun, play no more
the burrio vpoun your Brethrene : that is the Devillis pairt. Returne,
amend, and difappoint many. If ye pertein to God, thir lynes will doe
yow no ill. God mak yow feik mercie, and mend.
Yours to be commandit in all gude,
Andko Duncane,
Minifter of Chrift Jefus att CraihV
Anftruther, 23 October 1622.
I befeik yow for anfwer with the beirar.
(The Bifhop's anfwer vpoun the taile of the letter, efter the Minifter's
fubferiptioun, with the Bifhop's awin hand : — 2)
1 Duncan was admitted Minister of Craill, in September 1597, and was one of the
banished Ministers in 1606 (see No. XVIII.) During his banishment and confinement
his place as Minister of that parish was supplied by his colleague, Mi- William Murray.
2 This letter is directed on the back thus — " To the Bischop of St Androis, this be de-
lyverit in hand." — It is indorsed, — " Copy of Mr Andro Duncanis letter sent to the Bishop
of St Andrews, with the Bishop's answer writtin at the taill thereof. 1622, October."
TOO
ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING
[1G22.
Brother,
I am forie to fie yow infill in your follies. Our Kirk hes not neid
of fuch fpreittis, efpeciallie at this tyme. Ye fall do weill to be quyett,
leafl ye fall in the handis of wors burriois then I haue bein. I mynd
to die without reniors for ony thot-ht or deid I hawc ever had or kythed
to yow or ony of the Brethrene. I returne yow your awin lettre to feid
vpoun. Fareweill.
(And having inclofit the lettre in a new fauld, the Bifhop wrytes with
his awin hand thus :) — To Mr Andro Duneane at Anftruther.
CCCCXLIV.— HIS MAJESTY'S MISSIVE TO THE LORDS OF PRIVY
COUNCIL.
Apud Edinburgh, xiiij Novembris 1622.
Sederunt —
Ciiaxceeler.
Thesaubatb.
B. St Androis.
Mortoun.
Glencairxe.
Wyntoun.
lotiieane.
Mei.ros.
L. Erskine.
Mr of Elpiunstoun.
Mk op Jedburgh.
Preuie Seale.
Marciiixtoun.
Aduocat.
Ridiious.
fostersait.
Craigtocn.
IxXEKTEILL.
Mr Robert Spottiscode.
Mr Peter Rollok.
Coxseruatour.
Sir Joiixxe Scott.
The quhilk day the letter vnderwrittin, figned be the Kingis Maieftie,
and directit to the Lordis of Secreit Counfell, wcs prefentcd to the
faidis Lordis, and red in thair audience; off the quhilk the tennour
followis : —
James R.
Right tniftie and right weilbelouit Counfellour, and right fcruilie
and right weilbelouit Cofines and Counfellouris, We greete yow weele.
1622.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 701
Vnderftanding that vpoim aduerteifmcnt frome henfe of the courfe which
We laitlie tooke concerning the Papiftis in this Ourc kingdome, fome too
bauld thair to indge of Oure intentions haue idlic imagined the fame
for a begynning of a further purpois in Ws to tollerat or grant libertie of
confidence, and that the rumour, or foolifhe appreheniioun thairof, hes
gevin occafioun bothe to Papift and Puritan e to tak hairt, and beyond
thair accuftomed maner to grow infolent, the one vainlie boifting of the
faid pretendit libertie, and the other, with a feameing feare thairof, cloak-
ing his difobcdyence, and Ihowing himfelf moir then heirtofoir wywarde
and auerfe to conformitie : Albeit, God knowis, that quhat proceidit in
that courfe concerning the Papiftis heir wes without ony fuche inten-
tioun, and groundit vpoun goode and approuable reafonis of State, in
the deepe and mifterie quhairof euery man is not to diuc nor wyde, and
that Oure awne confcience bearing Ws witnes, yee yourfelffis knoweing
by daylie experience, and Oure Workis manifefting to the world that
Our conftancie euer hes bene, and ftill is, in Oure profeffioun. We can
not thairfoir yneugh maruell how ony of Oure fubiectis, of whatfomeuir
profeffioun, can be poffeft with fo iniuft ane opinioun of Ws : yitt, neuer-
theles, feeing We ar informed how far the fame hes preuailled, or rather
is pretendit by thefe enemyis to religioun and good order, to the greif of
otheris Oure goode fubiectis, We naif thoght fitt, for remeid thereof, to
will and requyre yow by thefe prefentis fcriouflie to aduife and refolue
with the Archiebifhop of St Androis, and fuche otheris as fhall chance
to be prefent of the Clergye, vpoun the beft and fpeedieft courfe yee can
conclude and intend for conflrmeing and encourageing of goode pro-
feffouris, alfweele by curbing of infolent Papiftis as difconforme Preach-
ouris, whofe diftraclioun and wilfull diifobedyence to thair Ordinaryis
is the mayne and cheif occafioun of the increfe of Poprie tliair ; nather is
thair ony better meane to explode and hold oute the commoun enemy,
and repreffe the lowfnes of licentious libertines, then that geuing dew
obedience to thair fuperiouris, and conformeing thamefelffis to the lawis
of Oure Church and State, thay joyne and concurre togidder in vnitie
and concord, for the mantenance and advancement of trew religioun
and pietie : And thairfoir, as We defire yow the more earniftlie in Oure
name to require the faid Archiebifhop to vrge the faid Conformitie, and
702 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G22.
to recommend to the reft ofhis colliguis the lykc inftance, for obteining
the fame in thair feuerall Dioeefis, So it is Oure fpeciall pleafour that,
according to Oure mony formair letteris, thay proceid with all eair and
diligence, not onlie to tak notice of Apoftatis and Papiftis falling away
firom the trcwthe, vfeing thair licit incanes ayther to reclame thame
frome thair errour, or cenfure thame according to the Chnrche Difcip-
linc. bot lykewayis that, aboue all. thay male diligent fearche and tryall
through thair whole Dioeefis for dii'couerie and apprehenfioun of Jelu-
ites, and other Meffe Preiftis, that fo thay may be maid lyable to Oure
lawia ; and incaifc it fal happin ony Papiftis to be apprehendit, who
vpoun pretence oi' the laid libertie, haue done or committis ony infolent
thing, It is Oure pleafour that, after dew and laughfull tryall thairoff,
thay be the fo mutche the more ftricllie and feucirlie puniihed, to the
exemple and terrour of othcris : For affecting whereof, and of the whole
premhTes, not doubting bot vow will contribute youre beft counfell,
ayde, and afiiftance, from tyme to tyme, as occahoun fliall require, in
that almrcance, We bid yow fairwcele.
From Our Courte at Hineheingbrooke,
the penult of October 1022.
To Oure right truftie and right weilbelouitt
Counfellour, Sir George Hay of Kin-
fawnis knight, Oure Chanceller, and to
Oure Right truftie and weilbelonit Co-
fincs and Coufellouris, and othcris Oure
truftie and wcilbelouit Co\mfellouris, the
Earlis, Lordis, and remanent of Oure
Preuie Counfell in Oure Kingdome of
Scotland.
Quhilk Letter being red, hard, and confiddcrit be the faidis Lordis,
and thay acknowlegeing the Kingis Maiefteis moft rehgious and vpright
difpofitioun towardis the advancement of the trew Religioun and fup-
preffing of Poprie, thay ordanit the copie of the laid mifiivc letter to be
1622.]
TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS.
703
delyuerit to the faid Archiebifhop of St Androis, and requeifted him to
haif a cair to gif vnto his Maieftie fatiffactioun thairin.
CCCCXLV— ACT OF THE PEIVY COUNCIL.
Apud Edinburgh, Vigesimo primo die Nouembris 1 622.
Sederunt —
Chancellair.
Thesaurar.
B. ST Androes.
B. Glasgow.
Mortoun.
Glencairne.
lowthiane.
Melros.
B. Aberdeene.
Merchestoun.
Privie Seale.
Clerk Register.
Aduocat.
KlLSATTH.
RlDIIOUSE.
Lxnerteill.
Craigtoux.
MR Robert Spottiswod.
MB Peter Rollok.
Coxseruitour.
Charge anent Mr Andro Duncane.1
Forsameikle as the Lordis of Secrcit Counfell ar furelie
informit that Mr x\ndro Duncane, who for his difobedience to Ordouris
of the Kirk wes lawfullie and worthilie depryued frome his Miniftrie,
and confyned within a certane boundis, and for not keeping the limitis
of his confynning wes denuncit rebell, and put to the borne, and remancs
therat as yit vnrelaxed, does not onlic haunt and frequent in all partis
of the cuntrie at his pleafour, hot of late has moft contemptuouflic
intrude himfelf in the kirk and pulpet of Carraill, as if he wer a lawfull
Minifter, and intendis furder to difturbe the peace of that kirk, and to
obtrude himfelf upon the prefent Minifter thereof, without remeid be
1 At the same meeting of Privy Council a charge was given to the Sheriff of Renfrew
to search and apprehend " Allane Hamilton of Ferguslie, ane eseommunicatt traffiqueing
Papist, and who is denunccit rebell and putt to the horn for that cause," yet who, as
they admitted, " hauntis, frequentis, and reparis publictlie and avowedlie in all pairtis of
the cuntrey at his pleasour, and by reasoning, and vtherwayes, does what in him lyes to
divert his Maiesteis good subiectis both from the trew Religioun and frome thalr obedi-
ence to his Majestie," &c-
704 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G22.
provydit : Tharcforc Ordania lcttcris to be direct chargeing the Proveift
and Bailliea of Caxraill to impede and flay the faid Mr Andro from
fuxder intruding bimfelf in the kirk and pulpitt of Carraill, and from
preaching therin ; and if he fall prefume or preaffe to preach in the faid
kirk at anie tvme heerafter, or enter in the pulpit for that effect, That
they apprehend his perfoun, and exhibite him before the faidis Lordis, to
be tane ordour with and punifhed for his contempt and dif'obedience, as
appcrtainis, vnder tlic paine of rebellious and putting the faidis Proveift
and Baillies to the borne, with certificatioun to them, and they failyie
or doe in the contrare, that letters fall be direci; simplicitcr to putt them
to the borne, and to efcheit, &c.
CCCCXLVL— THE ARCHBISHOP OF GLASGOW TO THE VISCOUNT
OF ANNAND.
My werie honor ab ill good Lord,
Vpone the nynt of this inftant, the Earle of Melros and I, in
prefence of Robert Mackbrair and Robert Phillip, did aggrce with Mr
David [loggers for ane take to your Lordfhip of the whole perfonage
teinds of the parifch of Sainet Mungo ' vpon ther conditions, that your
Lordfhip fhall pay wnto him and his fucceffours thrie hundereth pound
yeirlie betuixt Zuile and Candelmes, the firft yeirs payment to be
betuixt the faid termes, in the yeir ane thoufand fex hundereth tuentie
thrie; nixt, that your Lordfhip fhall build the quyre of the faid kirk
when ye fhall be requyred be the Bifchoppe of Diofie, and wphold the
famine in tyme cumming; and lalt, that your Lordfhip fhall releive
the Perfone and his fucceffouris of all taxations and impofitions to be
laid vpon the laid perfonage. We aggreed alfo for the help of his
povertie, and in the regaird of the commoditie which your Lordfhip will
finde be the faid take, vpon ane graffume of fex hundereth merks to be
payed to the Minifter at the fubferyving of the take. As for my confent
1 The parish of St Mungo is in the Presbytery of Lochmaben. Mr David Tiodger
was translated from the united parishes of Dalgaruok and Cloisbume to St Mungo and
Tundergarth between I0u8 and Kilo.
1622.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 705
as patrone, I fliall fubfcryve the take this day or the morne when it
fhall be prefented, wifching that I had fome mater of greater import-
ance and commoditie for your Lordfhip, to teftifie my willingnes to
ferve your Lordfchip.
Thair is ane buik wreatin be Mr Tilen,1 and dedicated to his Majeftie,
wherein he heth done great wrong to Mr Caineroune, as I doubt not
hot his Majeftie knoueth it weill. Efter the reading and confideratione
wherof, I advyfed Mr Cameroune, in all humilitie and fubmiffione, to
wreat ane letter to his Majeftie for cleiring of him felf of fuch afperfions
and imputations as Mr Tilen hath calumniouflie and, as appeirs, malici-
ouflie layed vpone him ; which letter your Lordfhip will be pleafed to
receave and delyuer to his Majeftie 2 when ye thinke tyme. Mr Came-
roune is much greived with it, "and can not be comforted wntill he be
allured that his Majeftie will not be moved to thinke fo of him as the
other wreates.
I can not ommitte to teftifie the trew affection which Mr Walter
Quhytefoord caireth conftantlie toward your Lordfhip's fervice and
honour, and with all to recommende him to your Lordfhip's favour and
caire, as one who is worthie to be preferred when any place fliall be
woyde, and who by his wifdome and caire heth alreadie brought all the
Minifters in Annandaill to conformitie and obedience. Thus, wifching
good health and all happienefie to your Lordfchip, I reft.
Tour Lordfchip's affured to feme yow,
Edinburgh, the 13 December 1622. Ja. Glasgow.
Quhen any kirk at his Majefties gift or myne fliall waike, I fliall be
myndefull and cairfull for the Minifter of Lacmaben, othervayes I can
1 Daniel Tilenus, of Silesia, an Arminian divine, with whom Cameron, in 1620, had
held a disputation, at Orleans, which lasted for five days, on the doctrines of grace
and free-will. This was published at Leyden in 1621, under the title of " Arnica
Collatio."
2 The letter referred to is printed in Jo. Cameronis Opera, p. 713, and in the Abbots-
ford Miscellany, vol. i. p. 115.
4 rj
706 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G23.
liardlie hclpe him, for other patrones prefentis thair owen frcinchs and
fuch as they pleafe.
To the rieht noble his wcrie honourable
good Lord, My Lord Wicount of
Annan.
CCCCXLVn.— ACT OF THE PRIVY COUNCIL.
Apud Edinburgh, xxiij January 1G23.
Act in fauouris of Williame Laing.
Forsameikle as Don Carlos Colonia, Ambaffadour for the King
of Spayne, having eftablifhed Williame Layng in Aberdeene his Agent
in this Kingdome in all thingis concerning the faid King of Spayne his
lerviee, The Kings Maieftie hes beene thervpoun pleafit, by his letter
vnder his hand and fignet, to will all his Maiefteis fubie&is of this
Kingdome, of quhatfoever eftate or degree they be, to acknowledge the
faid Williame for fuch a perfoun : And heirwithall to prohibite and
difcharge all his Maiefteis Judgis, Ecclefiafticall or Civile, to moleft the
faid Williame, or anie of his familie, for mater of religioun, he in all
vther thingis behaving himfelf as a dewtifull fubieel ; as his Maiefteis faid
letter, bearing date at Quhytehall, the tenth day of Januar inftant, and
prefentit and exhibite be the faid Williame this day before the faidis
Lordis, at lenth beares. Quhilk letter being red and confident be the
faidis Lordis, They ordaine all his Majefieis fubjeclis whome it concerneth
to conforme them felvcs and give obedience thervnto.
Extractum de libris Actorum Secreti Consilii,
S. D. N. Regis, per me Jacobum Pryme-
rosc, Clericum ejusdem ettb meU signo et
subscriptione manualibus}
1 The above official attestation is strangely enough ingrossed in the Register of the
Privy Council (fol. 115), from which it professes to he an extract ; but instead of erasing
1623.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 707
CCCCXLVIII.— THE AECHBISHOPS OF ST ANDREWS AND GLASGOW
TO HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES.
Most Sacred and Gratious Soveraigne,
The troubles made to the Bifchope of Caithnes by the Earle of
that countrey,1 who liveth fubje<5t to no law, and debarreth him of his
rent and living, hath broght him to fuch neceffitie, that we ar forced
humbly to meane his eftate to your Majeftie ; efpeciallie at this time
when he is charged and forced to pay taxatioun whereof he cannot get
that reliefe which other Prelats haue, nor enjoy any of his owne rent,
and that by reafon of the diforder of that parte of the countrey by the
Earle thereof, and his evill example ; fo vnlefle fome courfe be taken to
render the Earle obedient, and to fupplie the Bifchop's neceffities and
burthens, he will be forced to quite his place and charge. His humble
fupplication to your Majeftie is, that vnto fuch time he may be poffeffed
peaceable in his owne, your Majeftie wold be graciouflie pleafed to direct
the Collector of Taxatioun to let him haue repetition of that which he
hath beene alreadie forced to giue out and pay, and may be fred of the
reft of the termes payment following, which tho' it be great for him to
be burthened with, yet in it felfe it is but hnall, amounting in whole to
these words, a verbatim repetition of the Act immediately follows, of course omitting this
superfluous addition. The King's letter, however, is not inserted, which granted a tole-
ration to a Roman Catholic and his family, on the ground of his being a kind of political
agent for the Spanish Ambassador.
1 The Privy Council, on the 23d January 1623, issued a Proclamation against the
Earl of Caithness, in consequence of his rebellious proceedings ; and this is reiterated at
a subsequent meeting of the Council, on the 11th February. Part of it may be quoted,
in reference to these complaints on behalf of the Bishop : — " Bot the further that his
Majestie extendit his favour towardis him (the Earl of Caithnes) he became so much the
more ungrait and undewtifull, in so farre as he not oulie continewit as he does yit in his
rebellioun, bot with that he hes thir diverse yeares bygane sensed upoun the Bishop of
Caithnes his whole estate and living ; for the quhilk he is six or seven tymes denuncit
rebell and putt to the home ; and to the further contempt of his Majestie he lies usurpit
upoun him the places of judicatorie, within the saidis landis," &c.
708 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G23.
litlc more then two thoufand merks : And we haning confidered his
diftreffe herein, were moued to joyne our humble petition with his owne,
and to mak bold humblie to entreate your Majeftie for his help, and for
your Majefties fpeeiall warrant to the Collector hereanent for his fup-
porting, till fueh time as that parte of the eountrey may be quieted,
and he may haue recourfe to his living. For this oure boldneffe we
humbly befeech your Majefties gratious pardon, and fo humblie tak our
leaue.
Your Maiefties moft humble and obedient fervitoris,
Sanctandrews.
Edinburgh, 8 February 1623. Ja. Glasgow.
CCCCXLIX.— THE BISHOP OF CAITHNESS TO HIS MAJESTY KING
JAMES.
Most Gratiocs and Sacred Soueraigne,
The diforder of that part wherein your Maieftie was pleafed to
preferre mo hath fo fruftrat me of my fmall rent, and made me fo vnable
to feme into my place, that I am redacted to fueh extremitie, that un-
Leffe I be othcrwife helped, I willbe forced to quit my place. This hard
eftate vnder the which I am broght compelleth me to haue my recourfe
to your Maiefties moft gratious fauour and care as to my only refuge,
that your Maieftie wold be gratiouflv pleafed to mak me fome relicfe for
fupporting of my prefent neceffities. That till the time the Earle of
( 'athnes and that part be reduced to fome better obedience, and till that
lytic thing 1 haue in that part be better fecured to me, and may faifly
refort there, 1 may be fo a lytic helped by your Maieftie for the prefent.
that with fome greater cafe I may patientlie abide a better fettling
by your Maieftie. They that wer before me in that place had often
experience of your Maiefties bountie in this kind, wherof I flialbe
verie loth to mak any cuftome. For this my boldneffe, and this
1623.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIES. 709
my firft petition, I molt humbly craue your Maiefties pardon, and
humbly tak my leaue.
Your Maiefties moft humble and
obedient feruant,
Jo. B. of Cathnes.
Edinburgh, Februar 8, 1623.
To the King's most excellent Maieftie.
CCCCL.— THE EAEL OF MELItOS TO HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES.
Most Sacred Soeerane,
The letter wretin by James Douglas, by youre Maiefties direc-
tion, to the Lord Chancelar and me, aduertifing ws of his Highnes
fuddaine journay to Spaine, being fent by my Lord Chancelar to me,
I no fooner vnderftood thereby your Royall pleafure that finifter rumours
of that vnexpected refolution might be fuppreffed, and als litle fpeech
of it difperfed as could be, but forefeing that fermons were to be made
the next day, in all the Churches of this towne, I prefentlie fent for
Maifter Williame Struthers, and directed him to warne all his colleagues
to forbeare all mention of that mater, till, by better occafion of know-
ledge of your Maiefties will, they might vnderftand how to behaue them-
felues dutifullie, in a pourpofe of fuch moment. And incontinent ther-
efter, I difpatched to the Archibifhops, to tak the like order with the
Minifters of there prouinces, which wes all, that, in a cafe fo much
perplexing my mind, I could conceiue to be moft fit to effect your
Maiefties pleafure ; albeit I feare it fall not wourk fo fullie as I could
wifli, becaufe of the abufe of the pofts, of whofe flownefle I haue many
times compleaned, lies, in this occafion, anfuered my apprehenfion : for
that letter fent to ws, being directed from Newmarket, by packet, for
life, the 21 of February, at eight at night, came not to me till the firft
710 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1623.
of March at fix at night, the information of his Higlmcffc journay heing
knowne heir tuo dayes fooner, alfwell by letters from London, as by
relation of fuch as came from London to this towne by fea, by which
meanes the rumour being fo difperfed, nothing now reiteth, but to
make the heft conftructions that may be thoght of, till we fall know
your Maiefties particular directions, which I humblie defire may be
with diligence. And in the meanetime, I fall adde to my incefiant
prayeris for your Maiefties long and conftant profperities, my faithfull
and hcartie petitions to God, that his Highneffe journay, fraughted with
our feares for the great trauell and manifold dangers incident to that
paffage and returne, may tend to his honour and fafetie, and your
Maiefties contentment, and fall, till my death, remaine
Your (acred Maiefties moft humble, faithfull,
and bund fubiect and feruant,
Melros.
Edinburgh, 3 March 1623.
To the Kinsrs moft facred Maieftie.
CCCCLI.— THE ARCHBISHOP OF GLASGOW TO HIS iMAJESTY KING
JAMES.
Most Gracious Sotjeraigne,
Maie it plcafe your Sacred Maieftie : The Bifliop of Cathnefle
is fo diftreffed by want of paiment of the rent of his poore benefice, and
the heavie burden of the Taxation for which he is charged termely by
your Maiefties Thefaurer and his Deputyes, and of the which lie can
banc no reliefe of the tcnentis and takfmen of his Bifhopricke : The
Earle of Caithneffe pretending to banc right, and being in poffeffion of
the moft and beft part of the lands and tithes of the laid Bifhopricke,
that he may hardlye maintane his priuat eftate, much lefle be able to
1623.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 711
feme your Maieftie, and attend his Dioceffe in that dignity and place to
the which your Maieftie hath graciouflye preferred him. In regard
whereof I doe moft humbly entreat your Maieftie (as my Lord of St
Andrewes and I did in our former letter), that your Maieftie would be
pleafed to graunt a fpecial warrand and direction to my Lord Treafurer
to exempt him from paiment of the Taxation impofed vpon him for all
termes preceeding and to come, refting vnpaid by him, and that your
Maieftie would be pleafed to direct and command James Douglas to
fend downe the fame in haift, that the Bifhop be not denounced to
the home, who is not able to pay. Thus humbly crauing your
Maiefties pardon for this my boldneffe, and befeeching Almighty God
to bleffe your Maieftie with good health, long life, and all happinefle,
I reft,
Your Maiefties moft humble fubject and fervant,
Ja. Glasgow.
Aprile 15, 1623.
To the King his moft excellent Majeftie.
CCCCLII.— THE EAEL OF MELKOS TO HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES.
Most Sacred Souerane,
The neceffitie of my obedience to your Eoyall commandement
forces me to giue your Maieftie an accompt of the order obferued in
this towne at Eafter, not fo gracious as I wifhed. The Minifters haue
all done there dutie. Maifter Andro Ramfay preached vpon Good
Fryday, vpon the Firft Epiftle of Saint Peter, 2 chept. 24 verfe.
Maifter John Guthrie, on Setterday, vpon the fixt verfe of the 26
Pfalme ; and Maifter Patrik Galloway, vpon Eafter, his text being the
23, 24, 25, and 26 verfes of the 11 chep. of the Firft to the Corinthians ;
all of them verie worthelie, according to the time and holie fubiecis
712 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1623.
wherof they had to entreat. The nomber of communicants wes finall ;
no ftrangers, few of the townes people of good fort. The greateft part
receiued kneeling, following the exemple giuen by the Minifters, and
by your Maiefties Tlulaurar-deput, Aduocat, and me. Maifter Patrik
difcreitlie moued fome to kneel who offered to baue done otherwayes,
but findrie of the bafe fort, and fome wemen, not of the bell, did fit.
In the Collcdge Church I heare by them whom I caufed attend, that
the nomber of communicants far exceiding that of the Hie Church,
verie few of them kneeled. Maifter William Struthers, who preached
vpon Eafter day, vpon the 25 verfe of the 11 chept. of the Firft to the
Corinthians, and Mr John Maxwell, who affifted him in the celebration,
receiued vpon there knees, but verie few did imitate them.
It is neither the Bifchops nor the molt part of the Minifters fault
that better obedience is not giuen, bot we haue a nomber of ignorant
and peruerfe people, who in vetitum nituntur ; and if withowt offenfe I
may fpeake, I beleeue that time and conuenience fall preuaile more to
reduce them to conformitie nor fuddane or vehement inftance, the mul-
titude of the auerfe appearing to require vt quod a multis peccatur
impune paviisper sit, leaft the fcandall and difricultie of the remede
fould be more hurtfull nor the toleration for a ihort fpace; the trouble
of a rafcallie multitude for a fubiecl; which is pretexed with confidence,
not feeming feafonable, which I humblie fubmit to your Maiefties moft
excellent wifdome : And, begging pardon for my prefumption, I befeech
God long to faue and profper your Maieftie with health and perfite
contentment, I reft
Tour facred Maiefties moft oblifhcd, humble, and
obedient fubiecl and fcruant,
Melkos.
Edinburgh, 16th April [1023].
To the Kingis moft facred Maieftie.
1623.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 713
CCCCLIII.— THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO THE VISCOUNT
A.NNAND.
My very Honouraeill good Lord,
I refavit a letter from Mr Jlion Hay this day, qhairby he fchewis
me that he wes commandit by his Maieftie to defyre my Lord of Mel-
roffe, the Proveft, Balyeis, and Counfal of Edinburgh, and my felf, to en-
quyre the true caufe of not keeping the feaft of Eafter and Communioun,
as thei oght to haif done in that Toun, and to advertife his Maieftie
thairof. For my felf, I can gif the eaufe without inquifitioun, qhieh is
ane obftinat purpofe and refolutioun in that people to hearken to no
perfwafioun that can be gifin them, nor to obey ony directioun that
way. They haif alfe worthie men, that fpeak alfe plainly to them as
can be wifchit, but nothing wil move ; and I advertifed your Lordfliip
long fincc, that the Magiftratis chufit for this yeer wer not fo fet as to
draw the people, either by their example or other means to obedience,
as it lies prooved. It wil not be amendit with reproofis or benefitis,
qhairof the more thei get the worfe thei growe, as if his Maieftie culd
not want thair fervice. Qhat effectis haif appearit at this tym your
Lordfliip, I doubte not, lies heard ere now. If they had had fo muche
affeclioun to thair Prince as nature wold haif taught them, remembring
qhair he wes, and the interteynement his Highnes lies found, thei wold
haif kythit fura more kyndnes, and not gifin fo juft caufe of greif to
thofe of his Maiefties Counfel. But I wil not medle with that. And
for our Church materis, thei ar gone, vnleffe another courfe be taken,
and followit with authoritie ; and I pray God the effectis yitt kythe not
worfe. If his Highnes wer returnit, qhich I truft in God falbe fchortly,
I wold fay it wer meet to tak fum order with thingis that ar far amine.
This is al I can fay of thofe bufineffis, qhairof I wryt more freely to your
Lordfliip then perhaps men wold advyfe me ; but I know your Lord-
fliip wil communicat them to his Maieftie only. For the remede, if his
Maieftie defyre to know my mynd, I wil not fpare to travel thither vpon
his Maiefties dire&ioun ; but it paffis our meanis and diligence to doe
4 x
714 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1623.
more then wc haif done. I pray God fend ws our Prince faif home,
and gif his Maicftic to take thingis more patiently then thci requyre,
and heerwith to blefs your Lordihip with al happines. I reft,
Your Lordfhips ever affurit at power,
"SancTANDREWS.
Darfy, the 11 May 1623.
To my very honourabill good Lord,
mv Lord Yifcount of Annand.
CCCCLIV.— BERNARD LYNDSAY OF LOCHDLL TO THE VISCOUNT
OF ANNAND.
RlCHT HoNORABILL MY WERRY GUID LORD,
My heft love rememberit. Pleis you to know that the Bifehope
of Murray is depairtit this lyfe, and I dowt nocht hot ye knaw quhat
guid feruice the Archedeane, my fonne in law,1 lies doun, and I hoip will
do to his Maieftie ; as I think my Lord Bifehope of St Androis will tef-
tifie to his Maieftie with his letter of recommendation, quhilk 1 hoip fall
cum to his Maieftie and your Lordfchip worry fchortlie. Quherfoir, my
requaift to your Lordfchip is to ftand his guid freind, as I doubt noeht
hot ye will do. My guid Lord, I requaift your Lordfchip to do me the
favour to recommend my maift humble and dewtifull feruice to my moil
gratious Sowcrainc Maifter, his Sacreit Maieftie; als I intreit you, at
your convenient tyme, to commend me hairtlie to all the nobihnen of
the bedchalmer, and to all my camarades. Swa, praying God for our
< Jean, daughter of Bernard Lyndsay, was married to Dr Alexander Qlaidatones,
Archdeacon of St Andrews: "1613, August 10. Mr Alexander Grlaidstanes, Arch-
daine of St Androis, and Jeane Lyndsay," married. — (Kirk-Session Register of South
Lcith.) The above application was not successful, as Mr John Guthrie, one of the
Ministers of Edinburgh, was promoted to the See of .Murray.
1623.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 715
noble Prince's happie returne, with his fweit Lady, committis you to
God, and fall ever reft,
Tour Lordfhips euer to be commandit,
B. Lyndesay.
Leith, the 16 of May 1623.
To the richt honorabill his werry guid Lord,
my Lord Vicount Annen, gentihnan of
his Maiefties bedchalmer.
CCCCLV.— THE BISHOP OF DUMBLANE TO HIS MAJESTY KING
JAMES.
Most Gratious Soveraigne,
The eftait of the Chapell Eoiall being well foundit for the tyme
be your Maiefties inoft worthie predeceffors, lies refauit fuche ruine fen
the Eeformation by moft fchaniefull dilapidations, as hes bene feen be
thofe that at your Maiefties command hes vifited the famin ; for their
wer foundit faxtein Prebendaries befyd the Deane, and nyne boyes,
whilk had a reafonable provifion affigned them above thre thowfand tib.
Scottifli money be yeir, whilk now will not be twell hundreth libs.
Scottis money yeirly. Tour Maieftie hes fufficiently provydit the Deane
his dutie, and for the prebendaries, what remedie can be had to recover
ony pairt be law fall be affayed. The beft meanes to fupplie the reft is
by mortifieing of fome Church rent whilk is at your Maiefties gift as yit
vndifponit to the vfe of the Chapell, for by this courfe your Maiefties
patrimonie is not burdenit, and in the fearche of thefe Church levingis
that remainis vneredtit, the beirar, Mr James Law, hes made grit
fearche, and taken panes to try owt the famin, with fome vther over-
tures for the bettering of the Chapell, whilk I wald your Maieftie micht
be pleafed to confider, and according as they or ony of them fall be
TIG ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1623.
fund mcit, to give way vnto them, in the mean tyme forbidding your
Maiefties Conuniflionars at home in Scotland to pas ony new grant
of ony Churche loving that is yit fre vndifponcd, and commanding
your Maiefties regiiters to he patent, for a more full inquyrie and
fearche of thingis of this kynd. It may fchortly prove a pcrpetuall
benefit to the Chapcll, and full reparation of the famin, to your
Maiefties perpetual) honor, who is and lies bene God's Ueil'ed inftrument
to reftore the Gofpell, whilk be dilapidations wes almoft cxtinguifchcd.
Thus willing your Maieftie a long and blefl'ed reigne, we reft,
Your Maiefties humil and obedient fubiectis,
the Prebendaris of your Chapell, and in their names,
Ad. B. of Dunblane,
Dean of the faid Chapell.
Cannogait, the 17 of Maij 1023.
To his Sacred Maieftie.
CCCCLVI Mil JAMES LAW OF THE CHAPEL ROYAL TO HIS MAJESTY
KING JAMES.
"Wnto your Sacred and moil gratious Maieftie, humblie meanes
and fbawes your Maiefties moil humble and obedient fubiect, Maister
.James Law.1
That wher in the particulars which he is to propofe to your Sacred
Maieftie concerning the weill of your Maieftie's Chappell Royall of
Striueling, ther will diners queftiones rcfult, and it may be that maters
be handled which may tend to the weill of Church and Commoun
wealth, and your Maieftie's greit contentment: In doing wherof the
petitioner may happilie be di Ignited by diuers your Maiefties good
1 See tlic preceding letter from the Bishop of Dunblane.
1623.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 717
fubiects ther who does not affecl; thele bufmeffes ; Therfor inoft hum-
blie crcaues, that when opportunitie fliall offer, your Sacred Maieftie
wold be pleafed to incall him by Maifier James Galloway,1 in whofe
fecrecie he does repofe, and that he may haue accefs cccteris remotis.
To his Sacred Maieftie.
CCCCLVII.— INFORMATION ANEXT HIS MAJESTIES CHAPELL EOYALL
IN SCOTLAND.2
Ktng James the Fourt, of glide memorie, in the year 1501,
founded the Chapell Royall of Sterling, appointing be the fundation
xvi Chanonis, nyne Prebendaries, and fax boyis, with yeirly rent as
followis. The Fundation is confirmed be Popes Alexander and Julius.
The faxtein Chanonis, befyd the Deane (who had a rent of fyve
hundreth merk afngned to him furth of thofe foundit and mortified
revenues), ar thefe :
1. The Subdeane; his rent was the half of Kirk inner and Kirkowen
in Galloway, which payit to him, befyd the fervice of the cure at the
Kirkis, fourtein fcoir merkis yeirly, now payis only xl mark. Andro
Cowper, brother to the late Bifliop of Galloway, is titular.
2. The Sacriften, who had the iuft vther half of the faidis Kirkis,
payit of old as the vther dilapidat payis now, as the vther, xl mark
yeirly. The laid Andro Couper is titular of this alfo.
3. The Chanter. 4. The Thefaurar. 5. The Maifler of the bairnis.
1 He was the son of Mr Patrick Galloway, the King's Minister. In the year 1642 he
became Master of Bequests, and was knighted ; and in 1645, he was raised to the Peer-
age by the title of Lord Dunkeld.
2 This paper has no date, and may perhaps have been earlier than the accompanying
letters, with which however it seems to be connected. The reference to Bishop Cowper,
who died in February 1619, shows that it must have been subsequent to the appointment
of his successor Andrew Lamb, who was translated in the course of that year from the
See of Brechin to Galloway.
718 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G23.
Eche one of tlicfc had in rent 100 lib. yeirly furth of S. Marie Kirk
of the Lowis. One William Scot, that dwelleth in the border, is
Chanter, who can not ferue nor will not refidc. Mr Thomas Gray is
Thefaurar, in lyk maner non refident, never comis to the Chapel.
James Caftellaw is Maifter of the bairnis : he attendis dayly, hot the
rent is diminifched to 100 mark, being firft 100 lib.
The revenues of this Kirk ar fet in long taks to the Erie of Bak-
lcugh, worth 2000 lib. yeirly.
6. The Chanceler his rent wes the Kirk of Southweik, whilk now the
Organift lies : it payis 100 mark be yeir. It had alfo ane Kirk in Bute
whilk now payis 50 mark be yeir, and the trumpeter Fergifon lies it.
Thir ar called the fax dignities.
7. The Perfon of Kellis hes now 100 lib. yeirly. A child, Thomas
Cowper, nevoy to the late Bifchop, is titular : can not fcrvc.
8. The Perfon of Balmaklellan hes only 50 mark. Patrik Dumbar,
titular, attendis and is fkilfull.
0. The Perfon of Glenwhom lies 50 mark, and hes fold it to my
Lord Wigton. Yaikand.
10. The Perfon callit Air Primo hes 100 lib. yeirly. The foirfaid
Andro Cowper titular of this alfo.
11. The Perfon of Alloway hes SO mark yeirly ; another child, James
Cowper, nevoy to the late Bifchop, is titular, and can not ferve.
12. The Perfon of Dalmellinton hes 80 mark. Johne Gib, his
Majefties fervant, is titular. No attendance.
18. The Perfon of DalrumpiU hes 50 mark. Andro Sinklar, titular,
attendis and is fkilfull.
14. Culton, now divyded betuix tuo Pcrfonis. The faid James
Caftellaw and Barnard Lyndefay his Majefties fervant, eche of them hes
xl lib. yeirly. Barnard Lyndefay can not attend.
15 and 1G. Creif, having tuo Pcrfonis foundit, the faid Mr Thomas
Gray one, and a child callit Henry Mow the vther: eche of them hes
80 markis yeirly. This Kirk is fet in taks : it is worth 22 chalders
yeirly by the vicarage. Thir ar the xvi Chanonis.
The nvn Prebendars ar, — fyve in Strabran, whairof the faid Patrik
Dumbar hath one, and Stephan Tillidaf the vther four: ilk Prebendarie
1623.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 719
is xx lib. yeirly. The vther four ar in Caftellaw, wliairof the faid James
Caftellaw hath one, William Duncanfon, that dwelleth into Pole,
another, and James Keith, who attendis, and is fkilfull, the vther two.
Thir Prebendis ar worth, eche of them, 35 mark yeirly.
The fax boyis had 90 markis among them, whairof their is none this
day ; and of all the xvj Chanonis and nyn Prebendis, only fevin attendis,
and hes no meanes ; fo that only they fing the common tune of a pfalme,
and being fo few are fkarfe knowen.
Item, Thair is aikeris befyd Sterling called the Raploch, foundit and
perteining to it, bot hes never payit this long tyme.
Item, 312 lib. yeirly, furth of Kintyr and Loquhaber, payit euer till
of late yeiris.
Thir aboue written kirkis and rentis ar reknit in the Fundation to
haue payit to the Chapell, then in the 1501 yeir, 2000 lib. yeirly,
whilk is more then ten thowfand lib. now, and this day payis only twell
hundreth lib., and moft of it to non refidentis.
Remedies.
Firft, To reftore the 312 lib., whilk wes duly payit furth of Loquhaber
and Kintyre furth of the Kingis duties, all the dayis of King James
the Fourt and Fyft, and of late ceafed, thefe boundis ceafing to be ciuill,
whilk now, bleffed be God, is vtherwayis, and fuld be reftored.
Secondly, To affay be courfe of law, to repair the dilapidat eftait of
this benefice, diminution of rental! being fo evident, and be the lawis of
Scotland a clear irritation of ane tak, befyd that thefe takis wanting
the patron his confent (who is his Majeftie), can not fubfift ; and to this
effecT;, to writ to my Lord Advocat and Secretar to have a cair heirin,
as of his Majefties proper fervice.
Thridly, Seing their hes bene mortified to the Chapell, befyd the
aboue written rentis, evin in the fundation, the Pryorie of Eeftenot, the
Prebendaries of Spot, Belton, Duns, Pinkarton, lyand within the College
Kirk of Dumbar, Kinkairn in Mar, Pettie, Brachly and Duthell in
Murray, Ellam and Cranfchawis in Lammermuir ; all thir ar conteined
in the fundation. Item, be Acl; of Parliament, the Pryorie of Colding-
720 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1623.
aine is anncxt to the Chapell, of all whilk the Chapell hes nothing. To
try (fcing the titulars of the Chapell hes ncucr renuncit thir kirkis and
benefices) how they ar loft, and either be law or compofition, fome
yeirly dutie may be had furth of them.
Laftly, If no better meanes can be had, a new Foundation muft fupplie
it, or els all will ceafc : and a howfe to the Dean to dwell in wald be
giuen, or to pay the meill of it, as wes befoir.
CCCCLVin.— SIR ARCHIBALD NAPIER, TREASURER-DEPUTE, TO HIS
MAJESTY KING JAMES.
Most Sacred Soyerane,
There is com'd donn, a litle before the l'yfing of the Seffion, a
Signature vnder your Maiefties hand of almoft all the Chaplelanries,
Prebendaries, Alterages, and other fmall Church livings within this
Kingdomc, mortifyed to the Chaple Royall. I have only fecne and
pcrufed it ; the Lord Thefaurer and Commiffioncrs of your Maiefties
rents haue not yet feene it, and before the twenty of this month thay
ar not to meet becaus of the vacation. Therfor I have taken the bold-
ncs to humbly to entreat your Maieftie not to urge the paffing of that
Signature before the Counfele day, which falbe on the twenty of Augutl
inftant, at what tyme the Commiflioners of your Maiefties rents will
meet, and confider of your Maiefties difavantage, and other incon-
venicnts that fall enfuc if any be, for I doubt not but your Maieftie
falbe carneftly follicitcd for that purpofe, the pretext being lb fair, and
your Maiefties inclination fo pious. To provyde for the Chaple Royall
in a large and ample meafure, is a good work, and worthye the care of
fo gratious a prince, but to do it by this Mortification of all the
Chaplelanries almoft in Scotland, wherby moft of your Maiefties greateft
fubje&s rights falbe <|ueitoncd, and your Maiefties own liberality to
poore Students or Minefield alluterly reiirayned in this kynd, I kno
not if eftir true information your Maieftie will think it fitt, efpeeiallv
when it may be done by mortifycatione of them in a large meafure. So
1623.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 721
humbly craving pardone for this boldnes which my duty enforces, I tak
my leave, praying Eternall God long to preferve your Maieftie in all
happines ouer ws.
Tour Maiefties true and humble fervant,
Archibald Eapeb.
Edinburgh, 1 Auguft 1623.
To the Kings moft excellent Maieftie.
CCCCLIX.— THE DEAN AND PREBENDARIES OF THE CHAPEL EOYAL
OF STIRLING TO HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES.
Sib, — May it pleis tour Sacred and most gratious Maiestie,
Wee the Prebendares and remanent members of your Maiefties
decayed Chapell Royall of Striveling,1 efteiming it our greateft honor to
be preferred to thefe places, and haveing with great penurie and lu&a-
1 The Chapel Royal of Stirling, at the desire of King James IV., was erected by Pope
Alexander VI., in the year 1501, into a Collegiate Church. The Provost of Kirkheuch
was constituted Queen's Confessor and Dean of the Chapel, with Episcopal dignity.
This richly endowed ecclesiastical establishment, besides the Dean, consisted of sixteen
Canons, nine Prebendaries, and six Singing-boys. After the Reformation, it had fallen
into decay ; but, in the year 1606, having been annexed to the Bishoprick of Galloway,
its privileges were confirmed, and the place appointed to be " at Halyrudhous, within
the Palice of the samyn," and called " His Majesties Chapell Royall of Scotland."
After the death of Cowper Bishop of Galloway, in 1619, the Deanery of the Chapel
Royal was annexed to the See of Dunblane, and ratified by Act of Parliament, 4th
August 1621. Previously, on the 8th March, at a meeting of the Privy Council, " com-
peirit Grissell Andersoun, relict of umquhile Williame Bishop of Galloway," and "pro-
ducit and exhibit before the Lordis, the Bullis, Register, and Evidentis of his Majesties
Chappell." These deeds, connected with the foundation and endowments of the Chapel,
were delivered to Adam Bishop of Dunblane, " Dean of his Majesties Chapel ; " and the
Bishop's acquittance, with a copy of the Inventory (extending to four pages) is inserted
in the minutes of Council on the 13th March 1621.
4y
722 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G23.
tioun ferved therm thefc fex yeers bvgain (fomc haveing bot thrie puncls
Stirling be yeer, otlicrs no tiling at all; tbe baill rent dew to ws all not
exceiding ane bundretb merkis Stirling), being furelie informed be tbe
Bifhop of Dumblane, Deane of your Maicftie's Chapcll, off your Maiefties
rovall and religious difpofitioun for repaireing tbe brcaebes therof, can
not bot give your Maieftie all bairtlie tbanks for tbe fame, efpeciallie in
inch a tymc when tbe erecting of it finds fo vniuerfall ane oppolitioun
and contradiction of all forts of people, from tbe heigheft to tbe tumultu-
arie vulgar ; and fall lend vp our day lie prayers to God for tbe long con-
tinuation of your Maiefties bappie governament and eftablifching of
your bopefull pofteritie ; and fo much tbe more, being now fenfible of
your Maiefties propenfe inclinatioun to re-erect tbe fame by your Ma-
iefties own band, no lefs by doting tberto a compitent mantenance
tben by building a princelie and glorious fabrick, when fueli is tbe ini-
(piitie of tyme and adverfe difpoiition of many againft works of this
kyndj tho in them felffs moft laudable, and tbe meanes projected the
eafieft courfe, with leaft hurt to the crown rent, as fall be vercfyed by
molt pra'gnant reafones; the particulares confifting in fmall benefices,
cbaplanries, and certane few dewties of kirklands of fo litle valor, and
fo trublefome to be collected, that few or naine of them ar in vfe to
pey any dewtie in your Maiefties Exchecker, at the leaft haue bene of
the nature of concealled dewties. And wheras it may be objected, that
by this meanes your Maieftie binds vp your hands from benefiting your
Maicfiies fervands and childrein for their education at fcoolcs, it is moft
ccrtaine, wher ever one eliaplanrie lies bene gifted to any perfone of that
qualitie, ther Ins bene twentie gifted to other fort of perfones, of whom
we abfteinc to be critik cenfurares; and we ar confident that your Ma-
ieftie will rather beftow the fame vpon fuch a public!; and godlie work
for your Maiefties own fervice, then vpon any fuch privat perfones.
Bot not being able to withftand fo ftrong a pairtie, in whoes hands your
Maieftie hes recommended the pcrfvting of our bulines, wee tab the
boldnes to flee to your Sacred Maieftie as the munteiner of your Maief-
tie's poor diftrefied fervands, humblie befeechiug your Maieftie to give
lhait command to your Maiefties Thefaurar and remanent Commif-
QonaiS to fpeedilie exped that which your Maieftie with your own hand
1623.]
TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS.
723
lies fignet, or els to provyd ws with a fufficient rnantenance elfquliair,
according to your Maieities lait Fundation ; otherwayes wee, your Maief-
ties humble fervitoris, groaning and fuccumhing vnder our great bur-
dings, will be forced to lurrender and dimitt our giftes, places, and pro-
uifions in your Sacred Maiefties hands.
It is alio humblie petitioned, that your Maieftie wold not onlie keip
vp your Royall hand, bot alio difchairge your Maiefties Thefaurar to
pas any iignatours for confirmatioun of any taks formerlie fett of the
rents and teithes of your Maieftie's Chapell, as wee fhall particularlie
informe your Maiefties fervitour, James Douglas ; becaus it is the opi-
nion of Lawiers that without your Maiefties confirmation the taks will
not fubfift.
And alfo, that your Maieftie will be pleafed to grant fome fupport
and remembrance to Maifter James Law, who vpon his own expenflis
repaired towards your Sacred Maieftie laitlie in the effaires of your
Maiefties Chappell ; and in token of our thankfulnes, wee fliall publicllie
and privatlie fend vp our prayers daylie to Almightie God (as of dewty
wee ow) for your Maiefties long and happie regne.
Your Maiefties moft humble and obedient
fubiects and fervitors,
Ro. Wyneaji.
MK James Law.
J. Laurie.
Robert Ros.
A. Hay.
RoT. Weir.
An. Cowper.
James Keith.
S. TuLLIDEFF.
J. Castellaw.
MR Ja. Weland.
Ad. B. of Dunblane,
and Deane of the
Chapell Roiall.
Walter Troupe.
Patrik Dunbar.
Humphray Watson. Johne Watsone.
Halirudhous, 5 Auguft [1623.]
To the King his Sacred Maieftie.
721 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1623.
CCCCLX.— MR JAMES LAW OF THE CHAPEL ROYAL TO HIS MAJESTY
KING JAMES.
Most "Sacked and gkatious Soveraigne,
In your Maieftics audience at Windfore, vpon the fext day
of Julij laft bypaft, wher I wes gratiouflie hard in the effairs of your
Maiefties Chapell Royall, fome litle twiching ane other purpofe was
expreffed, and vpon the morne by wreat fupplied, yet not fo cleirlie
hot that it is more then neidfull fome farder wer hard for detecting that
which is evil I, and proponing that which no doubt may proue profhtable
for pace in the Church, and pcrpetuall ftrenthning your Sacred Maieftie
and mod hopefull Succeffioun. So that now I moil hairtilie wifch and
defyre yet once again, on my bended knees, to offer vp my old mit new
ftampt unto your Heighneffe graue confideratioun, that the fame being
put to tryell may (efter your Maieftie's princelie cenfurc) proue no les
fyncd from impuritie then offerrcd with finceritie ; not doubting bot
when your Maieftie will be pleafed to call for me to Court, ordour Mill
be takin that I receaue fome reafonable fupplie for my better addreffe
ther.
Efter my difpatch in the effairs of your Maiefties Royall Chapell, for
expeding the fame, I reteired my felff home, to my no fmall expenffis,
wher wee receaue a vehement oppofition of fome to whom ar trufted
the manadging of your Maieftics rents,' who vpon plaufible reafones and
weak prsetences (bot for their own privat refpeets) labour in the very
cradill to cxtinguifh that laudable work. In which cafe I can fuffi-
cientlie verefie againft them all, that thefe proceidings do leaft tend to
the hurt of the Crown rent or lieges; and will not be infeebled, bot
think my felf more then happie, if your Maieftie, confidering the ecpiitie
of the caus, by your own Sacred hand erecting that godlie work, winn to
your Maieftie immortal! gloir. So creavcing pardon for that wherin I
1 Tlic letter of the Treasurer-Depute, here printed as No. CCCCLY1II., affords some
insight into the nature of this opposition.
1623.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIES. 725
may haue offended, I befeech Almielitie God to bliffe your Maieftie
with all maner of bappineffe.
Your Maieftie's rnoft bumble and obedient fervand,
MB James Law.
Edinburgh, 14 Auguft 1623.
To the King his moft Excellent Maieftie.
CCCCLXL— THE BISHOP OF DUNBLANE TO THE VISCOUNT OE
ANNAND.
My verie good Lord,
My dutie remembrit. I did write to your Lordfhip vpon the
refait of the fyue hundreth lib. fterling whilk his gratious Maieftie wes
pleafed to fend vnto me. I think fuche a fowme came neuer in a better
tyme ; and the Lord euer bleffe his Maieftie who bad that remembrance
of his poore fervant. I know not, neither dois it befeeme me to inquyre,
anent that money ; bot I mult bamely craue your Lordfchip's advyfe in
this particular, and I befeik your Lordfchip to writ to me your anfwer.
When I wes in Ingland, his Maieftie did promeis to me the making of
two Sergeants at Law, and I travelled with fome to that effect, with
whom I covenanted, if they wer made Sergeantis be my meanes, they
fuld geue me ellevin hundreth lib. fterling the peece, and the proieclor
a hundreth lib. of it for bis paines. i^ow I haue refavit ane letter, that
thefe fame men ar called to be Sergeantis, and lies refavit his Maiefties
writ to that effect, and defyris me to writ to them anent that indenting.
I befeik you to lat me know, If his Maiefties will is I be payit be that
courfe or not ? If it be, it will be to me a good weill and grit. If his
Maieftie will not, far be it from me to offend bis Maieftie in ony mater,
having refavit his favor in a beginning (albeit, alace, it dois fmall to my
burdenis), I will attend his Maiefties pleafure and lafar in the tyme
72G ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G23.
and rnaner and all ; for I will not be taxed of avarice for all my wantis,
and importune preafing fo gratious a Soveraine, of whofe bountie I haue
tailed. Albeit, if again Martimes I get not foine farther, I will find
truble again. As ever I may ferve your Lordfbip, try if be tbat courfe
of Sergeantis I may expect help or not, and advyfe me, and if it may
be had but offence, but not els, further it, and writ to me your Lord-
fliip's counfell, tbat I may fend vp my Sone, if neid beis, for I will not
leave my charge. Thus, expecling your Lordfhip's anfwer, I reft
Your Lordfchip's in all dutie to my power,
Ad. B. of Dunblane.
Edinburgh, the 21 of Auguft 1623.
To my very honorabill good Lord, my
Lord Vicccount of Annand.
CCCCLXII PETITION" OF MR ROBERT BRUCE TO THE LORDS OF
PRIVY COUNCIL.
My Lords of Secreit Counsaill,
Ynto your Lordihips, humblie mcanis and fhawis, I, your ferui-
tour Mr Robert Bruce, Minifter, That quhair it pleafed your Lordihips,
fomc [blank] monetbis fince, or thairbv, according to his Maiefties
fpeciall warrand and direc-tioun, To confyne and warde me within the
Burgh of Innernes, and four myllis about the fame, quhilk boundis I
baif hitherto inviolablie obferuit and kcipit, and lies never tranfeendit
the limitis tbairof, bot lies behaved my felff with all dew refpect and
i'ubinifliue obedience to his Maieltie's Royall commandementes, Be
reifoun of quhilk reftraint and remaining witbin the laid Burgh I have
contracted havie difeafe and feiknes, quhilk hes fo violentlie feafed
vjioun my aiged and inlirinc perfone, that by humane conjecture tbair
is litle or no hoip of my recoverie. And whereas, lykewaycs, through
1623.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 727
occafioun of my removall and abfence frome my awne houfe, I haif bene
difliabled to intend to my awne eftait and leving, and to improve tbe
fame to the beft advantage ; fua that the famyne hes bene altogither
ouerfeene and mifgouernit, the moft pairt thairof lyand waift, to my
irreparable hurte and preiudice. Heirfoir, I befeik your Lordfliips, in
confideratioun of the premifs, to freethe and releive me of my prefent
warde and confyneing, and fuffer me to repair and returne to my awne
houfe for fome certane fpace, to the effect I may haif the opportunitie
to be confulted and aduyfed with Phifitianes anent the caufs and reme-
dies of my difeafe, and refolue vpoun fome good and folide courfe for
the better ordering and managing of my eftate and leving in tyme
comeing, I finding cautioun to reenter in ward vpoun the expiratioun
of your Lordfliips licence and warrand : And your Lordfliips anfueir
humblie I befeeche.
[Indorsed.^
Apud Halyrudhouse, Decimo die Septembris 1623.
Fiat ut petitur This complenair finding cautioun for his reentrie in
warde within the Burgh of Innernes betuix and the laft day of Nouem-
ber : And in the meantyme, that he fall nocht preache, in his repairing
towardis his awne houfe, nouther during his remaning and aboade
thairat, vnder the pane of tua thoufand merkis.
Geo. Cancfxl.
CCCCLXIII.— THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO THE VISCOUNT
OF ANNAND.
My very honourabill good Lord,
I haif, God willing, intendit to begin my journey towardis
Courte, on Tuefday the 7 of October, qhairof I thocht good to adver-
tife your Lordfliip, wifching of God we may haif a good and happie
728 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G23.
meting, and that I may fee that longit-for return of our Prince, qhich
wil not be heer belevit. So, til that tym, I reft
Your Lordfhip's ever affurit,
Sanctandrews.
Darfy, the laft September 1G23.
To my very honourabill good Lord,
my Lord Vicount of Annand.
CCCCLXIY.— THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO THE VISCOUNT
OF ANNAND.
Mr AERY HONOURABILL GOOD LORD,
I refavit this morning forrowful ncwis of my Lord of Craigtounis1
dcathe : His Maieftie lackis a trew fervant, and one qho hes not left
many the lyk behind. I cannot wryt qhat I wold for forrow; but
am pcrfwadit, in refpect of my Lord Chancellaris being on his journey,
that his Maieftie wil keep that mater qhole to his Lordfhip's dimming ;
and it concernis his Maiefties fervice much that it be fo. I had ben
two dayis advanced on my journey, but I mult bring Bernard Lyndfav
with me ; alwayis, ten or twelf dayis I hope fal finifche it, and bringe
me thither. Wifching your Lordfliip al happines, I reft
Your Lordfhip's moft affurit ever,
Leyth, the 8 October 1G23. Sanctandrews.
To my very honourabill good Lord,
My Lord Vifcount of Annand.
1 Mr John Wemyss of Craigtoun, one of the Senators of the College of Justice: See
Dote to No. CCCXII, p. 494. He is usually said to have received the honour of knight-
1623.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIES. 729
CCCCLXV.— ACT OF THE PRIVY COUNCIL.
Apud Halyruidhouse, xiij Octobris 1623.
Forsamekle as it hes pleafit the Almightie God In his exceiding
grate fauour and mercy towardis this Realme, to bliffe the fame with
the moft happie, confortable, and faulf returne of the excellent Prince
his Heynes,1 for the quhilk, as it becometh all goode fubieftis, in moft
fubmiffive and humble maner, to acknawledge this fo ineftimable a
benefit, quhairwith it hes pleafit the Almightie to comfort and bliffe
thame, fo thay aucht to vtter and expres thair joy and thankfulnes by
a folenme and publict thanks giveing to God : And for this effect to
convene with thair paftour in the houfc of God, and thair to concure
and joyne togidder, and in a moft folemne maner to gif al honour,
praife, and thankis to his Divyne Maieftie for this his grete kyndnes :
And quhairas the Miniftrie of this Burgh hes appoyntit the publict and
folemne thankifgiving to be in the Grite Kirk this prefent day at three
afternoone, Thairfoir ordanis heraulds and purfevantes to pas to the
Mercat Croce of Edinburgh, and thair to mak publicatioun heirof: And
to warne all the inhabitantis of the Burgh to repair to the Kirk at the
ringing of the bellis, and with humble and thankfull hairtis to praife
and magnifie God for the premilfes : And thairefter to maniefeft thair
hood, as stated in the note referred to ; but no evidence appears in proof of this. The
meeting of the Privy Council in which his name " Craigtoun" occurs for the last time
in the Sederunt was the 1st August 1623 ; and in the proceedings of the 31st July, " Mr
John Wemyss of Craigtoun" is specially named as one of the Commissioners who were ap-
pointed to examine and report on the adoption of the Latin Grammar of Alexander Hume.
1 On the 19th of February 1623, Prince Charles embarked at Dover, and passing
through France, arrived at Madrid on the 3d of March. His proposed alliance with the
Infanta of Spain (which did not take place) was looked upon, says Calderwood, with fear
and astonishment by " the whole lie of Blitaine, speciallie by the professors of true
religion." On hearing of his return, the Ministers of Edinburgh convened, and appointed
Mr John Guthrie " to preache in the Great Kirk after noone, that the people might con-
veene, and give thankes to God. Efter sermon, there was shooting of ordinance, ring-
ing of bells, setting on of bonfires, with the greater contentment that the Prince was not
married upoun the daughter of Spaine."— (History, vol. vii. pp. 570, 580.)
4 Z
730 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1623.
joy and tliankfulnes be fetting out of bonefyres, and making vtberis
taikincs of joy, as vfc is.1
Melros.
CCCCLXVI.— THE VISCOUNT OF LAUDERDALE TO THE VISCOUNT
OF ANNAND.
My verie honorabill good Lord and Brother,
Tbe good proof your Lordfbip bath often giwen whatt place my
rcqucfts batb fund with yow, makes me oftentymes more importunatlie
to be urged to be a footer to your Lordfhip nor eitber reafone or difcre-
tione can fuffer me to obeye ; howbeitt att tbis tyme I can not refuis to
fecond tber entreatyes, who I knaw will be humble footers to your Lord-
lbiji in the behalf of my Perfone of Lauder, Mr James Burnett,2 who
dcfyreth be my Lord of St Androis (who I knaw can not in dewtyc
refuis anye of your Lordfhip's dcmandes) to be tranfported to the cure
of the Kirk of Libbertoun, wber I am lykewayes a pariihioner. The
particular informatione I wih remitt to his brother, your Lordfhip's
fervitor, Mr Robert Burnett, who att his laft cumming home delivered
a letter of your Lordfhip anent your redu&ione againft Harden, which
1 thai! be verie cairfull maye goe right, and in everie thinge els fhall
be rcadie to difcharg the dewtye of
Tour Lordfhip's moil affe&ionat brother to ferve you,
Edinburgh, 27 of November 1623. Lauderdajll.3
To my verie honorabill good Lorde and
Brother, my LordeVicount of Annand, etc.
1 This Act, with some verbal differences, is entered in the Register of the Privy Council,
on the 13th October. Instead of the concluding words, " as use is," we find this addition,
'• according as the nature and circumstances of the cans, and thair bundin dew tie rcquiris."
J His name, as Minister of Lauder, occurs in the Book of Assignations for 1G15.
3 John Lord Maitland of Thirlestane succeeded to that title in 1595, and was created
Viscount of Lauderdale, I'd April 1G1G. He was admitted a Lord of Session in June
1G18, and in March 102 4 was created Earl of Lauderdale.
1623.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 731
CCCCLXVII THE BISHOP OF GALLOWAY TO THE ARCHBISHOP OF
ST ANDREWS.
Most Reverend and my verie honourable good Lord,
My heartieft falutations rememberit and to all yours : I hade
wrytten to your Lordfliip fo foone as I came from Galloway, about fome
fourtein dayes fince, bot I was ftill put in houp that your Lordfhip was
on your way homeward, til this night, that Andro Hay hes fhawen me
that your Lordfliip is not as yit refolved nor ready to take journey. I
haue no great matters to fafli your Lordfliip with, only am I to teftifie
my myndfulnes of your Lordfliip, and to giue your Lordfliip many
thanks for the kyndlie care your Lordfliip hade of me, and the grief
your Lordfliip did conceaue of the malicious brute that fome wicked
perfons invented and ipreade of my death. Thel'e are the fruites of the
prcetendit zeale of that invyful crew who laboures to get eftimation
to themfelues through the difgracing of honeft men. "We haue bin
michtilie rejoyced at the good newes frequentlie reportit of our gratious
Prince and all thefe that hes bin abroade with him, concerning their
good carreage in their abfence in matters of religion, and of their better
confirmation in the trueth, and more zealous profeffion therof fince their
returne. Your Lordfliip's letter alfo to Mr William Struther was verie
acceptable to the Miniftrie heir about, and did confirme the good
reports they hade heard, to their great contentment and of all that
feares God and loues our gracious King and Prince. Long may your
Lordfliip haue that good fubject to wryt of to vs, to abate a litle the too
great pryd of our Papifts, and to make our refra6tarie Brethren more
plyable to conformitie and obedience to their King and their ordinaries.
Our Church hes too long felt the fmart of both their pryds, and except
fome good ordour be lhortlie taken to bring both in ordor and vnder
duety, there can be nothing bot loofnes and confufion in this Church.
I wryt not this to informe your Lordfliip, who both knowes better, and
better can refent this evil, nor any other amongft vs ; bot becaufe being
lately and long inough in my Diocoefe, I haue found the proofe of con-
732 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G23.
tempt of our authoritie, alfwcil in the one fort as in the other, to my
great mifcontentment and difcouraging. I could not but acquent your
Lordlhip therewith, intrcating your Lordfliip to confider of it and to
dealc with his Majeftie for amending of it, which thing is feared for the
prefent, to be broucht to pafl'c be your Lordfhip's good travails and
credit about his Majeftie, of both thefe forts of peopil, and greatly
wilhed and houped for be all the weill affected to the reftoring of our
Church to foundnes of doclrine and conformitie in order and difcipline,
whofe prayers are ftill to God Almichty to moue his Majefties heart
therunto, and to grant your Lordfhip favor in his eyes to be the happie
inihument of it. My Lord of Glafgow lies bin heir fhortfyne, and
looked for letters fra your Lordfliip when others receaued, wherof his
Lordfliip hade bin verie glade. His Lordlhip is returned to Glafgow,
and defyred me to be his advertifer if any word came fra your Lord-
fliip to him. If your Lordfliip be not fliortlie to come away yourfelf,
your Lordfliip will doe vs a lingular pleafure to refrefh vs with your
letters and fuch occurrents as maift and beft concernes the matters of
our Church and State. As your Lordfliip lies occafion, I will intreate
your Lordfliip to remember my humbleift and heartieft falutations and
thankfull remembrance of their kyndnes and courtefies fliawen vnto me,
to my Lord his Grace of Canturberrie and my Lords of London and
Exeter. So cxcufing my tedioufnes, efter my heartieft prayers to God
Almichty for his grace and Miffing vpon yow and the Lordis good work
in your Lordfliip's hands, 1 take my leaue of your Lordfliip till forder
occafion, and reftes
Your Lordfliip's loving Brother
to feme your Lordfliip,
M. A. B. of Galloway.
Leitli, the 11 of December 1623.
To the moft reverend my verie honorable
good Lord, my Lord of St Androis,
att Court.
1623.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 733
CCCCLXVIIL— THE BISHOP OF GALLOWAY TO THE VISCOUNT ANNAND.
My VER1E HONORABLE GOOD LORD,
Your Lordfliip hes certane lands and teynds of the Pryorie of
Whithorne, poffeffit be the Goodwyf of Brouchton and her hufband,
wherof I can get no dewty ather of few or tack, fo that I am forcit to
fummond all that hes intereft to thefe lands, to fie their fewes reducit
for not payment thir foure yeires bypaft, fince my entrie. Bot becaufe
your Lordfliip has intereft in the matter, I haue flayed to call the
action, till I fould vnderftand of your Lordfliip if the richts of thefe
lands doe ftill appertaine to your Lordfliip, or if they be difponed
to the prfefent poffefibrs, that therefter I may perfew for my faids
dewties according as your Lordfliip fall think good and advife me.
As for the teynds, they alleadge that your Lordfliip is takfman, and
that they cannot be preaffed for the teynd-dewty. They haue never
payed any taxation of thir three termes, bot I haue bin forced myfelf
to make payment for them. I haue caufed my factor draw vp a roll of
the dewties auchten me feverally, and for what caufes, which your
Lordfliip fall find heir inclofit.1 Efter your Lordfliip lies confidered of
it, I will intreate your Lordfliip to wryt back to me your mynd heir-
anent. Whatfoever concernes your Lordfliip therin, doe in it at your
Lordfhip's awin good pleafure. If the burthen of the payment of thefe
dewties belonges to any other, it may pleafe your Lordfliip let me be
aduertifed, that fomeway I may come to my awin. So, ceaffing to fafli
your Lordfliip, efter my heartieft falutations, I recommend your Lord-
fliip to the grace and bleffing of God, and reftes
Tour Lordfhip's affurit good friend to his power,
Leith, the 11 of December 1623. M. A. B. of Galloway.
To my verie honorable good Lord, my Lord
Vicount of Annand, att Court.
1 The paper referred to is not preserved with the letter,
734 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G23.
CCCCLXIX MR WILLIAM WH1TEFURD,1 MINISTER OF MOFFAT, TO
VISCOUNT OF ANNAND.
RlCHT NOBILL AND MY VERIE GOOD LORD,
Itt hath long bein my freinds defyr to have me removed from
Moffett to fome pairt more confortahill both to thame and to me.
Thefe fourteiu yeirs I haue ftreavin, and am now wearic with the
barbaritie of my nichtboures. The Kirk of Libbertoun, befyd Edin-
burghe, is vacant be the Minifter's removing to the Colledg of Edin-
burghe/ which thocht itt be nather of gretter crcditt nor meines nor my
owen, yitt I wold glaidlie embrace in refpecl; of the neirnes of the place
to Edinbnrghe, whair I may be more fledabill to my freindes and fpeci-
allie to your Lordfhip, fmdrie wayes, to whom I do acknawledg my
felff more bund then to all wtheres. Since this place vaiked, I had no
occafioun to fie my Lord St Androes, and na doubt his Lordfhip is
fuitted be findrie ; itt may be engaged to fome, yitt out of all doubt
nott fo far bott be your Lordfhip he may be diverted giff itt will pleas
your Lordfhip to do me the favour as to wrytt to his Lordfhip for me,
and purchafe his Maiefties letter direct to his Lordfhip, efter fuch a
tennour as I have maid bold heirwith to fend to your Lordlliip. And
his Maiefties hand to this fignatour, which, among your Lordfliip's
many wndeferved favourcs, I humblie entreatt your Lordfhip to procure
and to fend to me, that 1 may prefent thame to my Lord St Androes.
Tims 1 am bold in all my neceffiteis to flic to your Lordlliip as my
onlie fhelter and Patron, to whom I have vowed, and acknawledg I do
owe cvin my felff, and that too mein a recompenfs of your Lordftiip's
1 Other letters, addressed to John Murray, by Whitefurd, and preserved in the same
volume with the above, are dated lGth and 2Sth May 1G22, the 21st January or (June),
and 9th August 1623. Having no special reference to Ecclesiastical Affairs, it was
thought unnecessary to insert them in this collection. The first two are printed in the
volume of State Papers and Letters, pp. 204, 205, but there, by some oversight or the
mistake of the transcriber, they are dated 1G12 in place of 1022.
■ Mi- John A'lamson was appointed Principal of King James's College, Edinburgh, 21st
Nnvrml.ir I02.S. His successor as Minister of Libberton was Mr John Cranstoun.
1623.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 735
favour, defyring nothing more nor occafioun to approve my thankful]
affectioun, whairin to the vttermofl of my abilitie I fall evir remane
Your Lordfhip's ferviteur enteirlie devoted,
Edinburgh, December 26, 1623. W. Wheitftjrde.
To the richt nobill and my verie good Lord,
My Lord Vicount Annan.
CCCCLXX.— A LETTEE TO BE DIEECT TO MY LOED OF ST ANDROES
IN FAVOUEES OF ME WALTEE WHEITFUED FEOM HIS MAIESTIE.
Richt, &c. Haveing hard that the Kirk of Libbertoun is
vacand be removeing of Mr Jhone Adamfone to our Colledg of Edin-
burghe, We haue taken occafioun to acquent your Lordfhip thatt itt is
Our pleafour that Kirke be planted with a man of fpeciall good affec-
tioun and dexteritie for Our fervice, inrefpect of the neirnes of the
place to Our burghe of Edinburghe ; and for thais refpecles, that Mr
Walter Wheitfurd, Minifter att Moffett, be removed to the famyn ; and
thatt fo foone as the faid Mr Jhone Adamfone falbe fetled in the charge
of that Our Colledg We be advertifed, to the effect We may prefent
the faid Mr Walter to the flipend of the faid Kirk of Libbertoui^
according to Our richt of patronage.
CCCCLXXL— THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO THE VISCOUNT
OF ANNAND.
My vert honorabill good Lord,
I wrote fom dayis paft by Sir William Murray to your Lordfhip,
but perfaving that he makis no hafte in his journey, I haif taken occa-
736 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G24.
lioun to runnc my lctteris, and if I find him before his parting, wil tak
them back: if jour Lordihip refavc the famin, yow may vfe them as
your Lordihip plefis. Only qbat I wrote of Mr William Wifchart and
the Lard of Babignois complaint of him,1 qhiche his Maieftie direetit me
to tak order with, I find, fince my dimming to this town, that Babig-
noes informatioun is dyverfe, and not agreeing to the anfwcr Mr Wil-
liam gave me ; and thairvpon am to fummond Mr William to a dyet
befor the Commiffioun, and doe that qhiche juftice requyris, fo as your
Lordihip may allure his Maieftie that bufines falbe done to the gentle-
manis contentment, fo far as reafon wil permit, and that he fal haif no
caufe to complain of delay or injuftice.
Thair wea prefented a letter from his Maieftie to the Commiffioneris
of the rentis concerning Orkney; and I find they ar al of mynd that it
fuld be his Maiefties profit to few the landis for the duty they prefently
pave, qhiche certainly fal be the weel of the tenantis, and mak a certain
rental to his Maieftie, that for many reafons is now vnfure. It feemis
that the Chancellar expeclis by this fom benefit, qhairin I feare greatly
his Lordfliip be deceavit ; for the povertie in thefe partis, and in all this
countrey, is fo great that it wil tak a long tym ere he be able to mak
ony good thairof; qhiche out of my love to him, and yet not fo much
to him as to his Maiefties fervice, I advertife, that your Lordihip may
hold his Maieftie in mynd of fum meanis qhairbv his Lordihip may
be inabled to doe the fervices that he fettis him fell* to ; for I know
lie wil not moue any thing that may be thocht burthenfom to his
Maieftie, and that he is more ready to doe then to fpcak. Your Lord-
ihip lies alwayis loved fuch fervantis ; and I proteft to God his Maieftie,
in my tym, had never a better, that I mutt ftil be doing for my part
this good duty to him, althocht he would perhaps difallow me, if he
\ oderftood fo much.
The laft 1 wrote to your Lordihip wes by Jhon Achmowty from
' On tin- L8th February HlL'4, and at snnie subsetiuciit meetings, the dispute referred
to came before the Lords of Privy Council, in tin' form of a submission between the said
parties, viz., " Sir John Wood fit" Kalliegno, John Stratoun, fear of Louriestoun, and Mr
Williame Wishert, Persone of Fettercairne." Wishart afterwards was translated to the
Chureli of South Leith ; and in a work on the Lord's Prayer, printed in 1636, he stj les
himself " Parson of Restalrig."
1624.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 737
Newcaftle, qhairin I advertifit your Lordfliip of our troublefom journey
homewardis, and the loffe I made of two horfes, and now al the foure
ar gone, fo as I muft mak new provifioun. If your Lordfliip conveni-
ently can obtain for me a precept for my chargis to the Thefaurer, it
wil cum in this troublefom yeir in good feafon. But I referre this to
your Lordfliip's wifdom ; for I will not offend with begging, thocht my
neceffitie wer greter nor it is. Thus, wifching to your Lordfliip the
continuance of al happines, I reft
Your Lordfliip's moft affurit to command,
Sanctandrews.
Edinburgh, the 20 Januarij 1624.
I wil pray your Lordfliip remember my fervice to my Lord of Nithif-
dail. The rumour is heer that he is becommed his Maiefties convert,
and thair is nothing I wiflie more for his good, bothe fpiritual and tem-
poral.
To my very honourabill good Lord,
my Lord Vicount of Annand.
CCCCLXXIL— ACT OF THE PRIVY COUNCIL.
Apud Edinburgh, xxvij Januarij 1624.
The Bishop of Dunkeld admittit on Counsell.
The quhilk day, the Lordis of Secreit Counfell, according to ane
warrand and directioun in write figned be the Kingis Maieftie, and
direclit to Sir George Hay of Kinfawnis, Lord Heich Chanceller of
this kingdom, reffaued and admittit Alexander Bifliop of Dunkeld to
be ane of the nomber of his Maiefties Preuie Counfell, and to brouke
all honouris, digniteis, preuilegeis, and immuniteis proper and dew to
5 A
738 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1624.
the (aid place ; lyke as the faid Bifchop being perfonalie prefent, and
with mod humble thankis acknoulegeing bis Maiefteis gratious fauour
lhawnc vnto him, by preferring and advanceing of him to this place of
honnour and dignitie, he with all dew reuerence vpoun his knees, his
hand lyand vpoun the halie Evangell, maid and gaif his folemnc oathe
of Alledgeance and the oathe of a Preuie Counfellour.
CCCCLXXin.— THE BISHOP OF DUNBLANE TO THE VISCOUNT
OF ANNAND.
.My (;ood Lord,
1 have often written to your Lordfhip, hot lies nevir refavit any
anfwer, for I fe no hope that be Sergeantis of Law making,1 ony good
can come to me, fyftein beind made lately and I not rememberit.
Truly that whilk I got fayed me from falling, and I think wes the moil
tvmous help ever came. The Lord euer blefle his Maieftie, who theirin
did fave me from ruine. Bot feing it did not fre me of my burdenis.
hot only payed fome annuellis and rigorous compryfingis, I am ever,
and will be again Whitfonday, in the lyk miferie or griter ; praying
vour Lordlhip to affay what meanes may be gottin to do me good,
uithowt hurt or offence to his Maieftie, for I fe nothing heir bot mere
povertie, for of all Dundranan I have gottin nothing this twa yeir, that
contrey is fo extremly impoverifched that I muft neidis forgiue them.
Thus 1 humelv befeik your Lordfchip to remember the belt way, as
occafion fall offer, and writ to me your Lordfchip's opinion and advyfe,
whilk 1 fall imbrace, and reft
Your Lordfchip's to my vttermoft power,
Cannogaitt, the o of Marche 1024. Ad. B. ov Dunblane.
To my \rric good Lord, my Lord
Vicecount of Annand.
1 See the Bishop's former letter, supra, page 725.
1624.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 739
CCCCLXXIV.— ACT OF THE PRIVY COUNCIL.
Apud Edinburgh, xvj Marti} 1624.1
Mr Robert Bruce.
Anent the Supplicatioun prelentit to the Lordis of Secreit
Counfell be Eobert Bruce, appeirand of Kynnaird, fone to Mr Robert
Bruce, Minifter, makand mentioun, That quhaix it is laitlie come to his
knowlege that it lies pleafit God to vifite his faid fader with ane havie
difeafe and feicknes, whilk be appeirance, according to the informatioun
fend vnto him, will fhortine his dayis, and thair is no hoip nor expeeta-
tioun of his recoverie : And whereas now the faid Supplicant is to
repair toward him to attend vpoun him in this tyme of his havy
vifitatioun, and he knowing that it wald be ane grite confort to his
laid Fader yf, be the faidis Lordis fauour, he might compleete his
courfe and end his dayis in his awne houfe, humelie thairfoir defiring
the faidis Lordis that he might haif ane warrand in maner and to the
effecT; following, lyke as at mair lenthe is contenit in the faid Suppli-
catioun : Whilk being red, hard, and confidderit be the faidis Lordis,
and thay finding the defire thairof to be reafonable, The Lordis of
Secreit Counfell gevis and grantis licence to the faid Robert Bruce to
tranfporte his faid fader fra the burgh of Innernes, quhair he now
remanis, to his awne houfe of Kynnaird, yf his healthe in ony caife will
permitt, and thir prefents falbe vnto the faid Mr Robert, notwithftand-
ing of his confynement within the burgh of Innernes, wheranent the
faidis Lordis difpenffis ; providing, that the faid Mr Robert firft find
cautione and fouirtie, aclit in the bookes of Secreit Counfell, That he fall
returne back to his warde betuix and the firft day of September nixt
to come, and in the meantyme that he {hall not preatche, nowther in
privat nor publict, vnder the pane of tua thowfand merkis.
1 In the Council Register this Act is inserted at the end of the Minute dated 25th
March, probably in consequence of its having been omitted by the Clerk in its proper
place, on the 16th.
740 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1024.
CCCCLXXV.— THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL TO HIS MAJESTY
KING JAMES.
Most Sacred Soderaigne,
Vpoun the knawledge of that lettre fend be your Maicftie to
yourc Chancellour, and of your Maiefties earneft defyre to be treulie
and tymouflie informed of the circumftanceis of that proude contempt
and prefumptioun of fome of the people of Edinburgh to cenfure thair
Minifteris doelrine ; we convenit and mett this day, fend for all the
perfonis exprell in youre Maiefties letter, and fpent the whole day in
examinatioun of thame : And firft, wee began with AVilliame Rig,
baillie, and his compliceis, who wer gevin vp to be vrgearis of this
cenfure ; and having endit with thame, wee then caUed vpoun the
Proueft, liaillies, Deane of Gild, and Thefaurair, whofe whole depofi-
tionis, after the moft Uriel maner that wee could tak the fame, wee haif
In irwith feud vp to your Maieftie. And tuitcheing our opiuioun and
cenfure of this prsefumptioun and contempt, wee think the fame in
generall to be ane offence of bad example, carying with it verie pro-
bable appeirances of mutinye and ihifme, and thairfoir woorthie of
rigorous punilhemcnt, by confyneing or fyneing, according to the qua-
litie of tlie perfonis, and nature of the offence, quhilk, as wee conceaue,
Iks three brancheis : Firft, the public! impugning of Doctor Forbes
doctrine be Johnc Dickfone, who, with grite humilitie and repentance,
acknawledgeis his oucrfight ; protefting, gif he had thoght that it wald
haif gevin the lead mater of offence, that he wald neuer haif oppynit
Ms mouthe thairin, and promiling to be more refpectiue of his behaviour
in materis of that kynd in all tyme heirefter: Secundlie, the ftanding
to and fufteaneing of this point be Williaine Rig and Johne rlammil-
toun : Tluidlie, the vrgeing of the Minifteris to celebrate the com-
munioun againft the receaued ordouris of the Churche, and public!
la\v<'s of the Kingdome, be the laid Williaine Rig and John Meync :
And, lalt, Williaine Synil'oun his refufall to feme the tables of the Com-
munioun, in refpeel of the receaued ordour of celcbratioun thairof, and
his challenging of Mr Patrik Galloway for not attending of the Seflioun.
1624.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 741
All whilkis, in oure opinioun, ar punifhable in the awne kynd ; bot
becaus the not knawing of the qualitie of the perfonis may make fome
miftakeing in the ordour of punifhement, wee haif prefoomed, for your
Maiefties better cleiring in this point, to aequainte your Maieftie, tbat
Johne Meyne and William e Symfoun ar bot poore men ; the firft
having the burding of a numerous familie, and the other leiving by his
credite in venting of wyne : the other twa ar in fome better eftaite,
bot men of no grite wealthe, and Williame Rig is ane wealthie man.
After that wee had endit with thame, wee called for the Minifteris, and
earneftlie delt with thame to acquaint ws with thair greeves, that aecord-
inglie wee might tak ordour for repairing of the fame. Thay wer fpar-
ing to come to particularis, bot in the generall, thay expreft als grite
caus of greiffe and havynes, as euer paftoris had of thair flocke, quhilk,
as thay affirmed, thay euer concealed and boore vp till this laite con-
tempt and indignitie enforced thame now againft thair hairtis, after
long patience to reveill the fame. Wee haif affured thame of all the
fauour and concurrence to procure refpe6t to thair perfonis, and obedi-
ence to thair Miniftrie, that our placeis will allow ; and wee haif gevin
ordour and directioun to the Magiftratis of Edinburgh to doe the lyke.
This being the effe6t of our proceidingis in this buffynes, wee humblie
prefent the fame to your Maiefties princelie confideratioun, and what
your Maieftie fhalbe forder pleafed to command thairin fhalbe accord-
inglie obeyed. And fo, with oure humble and earneft prayeris vnto
God for your Maiefties long and happie reign, wee reft for euer
Your Maiefties moft humble and obedyent
fubie6tis and feruitouris,
George Hat. Sanctandrews.
Mar. S. W. Oliphant.
Melros. Ad. B. of Dunblane.
Halyrudehoufe, the laft of Aprile, 1624.
To the Kins; his moft facred and excellent Maieftie.
d> ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G24.
CCCCLXXVI.— EXAMINATIONS BY THE LORDS OF I'RIVY COUNCIL OF
WILLIAM RIG, JOHN DICKSON, AND OTHERS.
At Haliruidhous, the laft day of Aprile, 1024 :
In prefence of the Lordis Chanccllair and Thefaurair, the Archi-
biihop of St Androis, the Earle of Melros, the Biihop of
Dunblane, and Sir Williame Oliphant, Aduocat.
Williame Rig, Baillie of Edinburgh, examined and demandit, yf lie
\ms prefent at the meeting of the nightbouris of the Toune in the
LitlcKirk. vpoun Twifday afoir Eafter laft ; deponis, He wes prefent at
that meeting.
Demandit, vf, by reafoning or difcourfe, he fuftenit that the doclrine
of the Paitouris of the faid Burgh might be eenfurit in that meeting;
deponis, That Johnne Dikfoun haueing regraitit to the meeting ane
fcruple and doubt that he had apprehendit vpoun occaiioun of fome
fpeecheis vtterit be Mr Willianie Forbes publictlie in a Sermone maid
be him, laving, That the materis contrauertit betuix the Romane
Churche and ws might be eafilie reconliled : and Mr Williame Stru-
theris, Moderatour of the meeting, haueing anfwerit, That the doclxine
of the Paftouris wes not to be cenfured be that meeting ; the deponner
niantennit the contrair opinioun, faying, That no tryall nor cenfure
could feclude the Seffioun of the Kirk from thair tryall and cenfure ;
alledgeing fome pafiageis of Scriptour for his warrand, efpeeialie oute
of St Johnne, quhair it is writtin, " Try the Spirittis yf thay be of God
or not:" And grantis that he fayd, The judgement of difcretiouu
belonged till all men.
Demandit, yf he defyrit the Minifteris to gif the Communioun after
tlic auld maner; grantis the fame.
Joiinni: DiKSOUN, flefheour, demandit, yf he wes prefent at the meet-
ing foirfaid; grantis the fame, it being ane vfuall euftome in the Kirk
to keepe the faid meeting, and quhairof intimatioun is yeirlie maid be
1624.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 743
the Minifteris vpoun the Sonday preceding to the people to keepe the
lame.
Demandit, yf at the meeting he vtterit ony fpeecheis concerning Mr
Williame Forhes or his doctrine ; deponis, That the Clerk of the Sef-
fioun, haueing defirit the people conuenit to declair quhat they had to
fay aganis thair Minifteris, towcheing thair lyffe and doctrine, and this
deponner haueing hard Mr Williame Forbes, in a fermone maid be
him in the Little Kirk, mantene that thair wes findrie contrauertit
headis betuix the Romane Churche and ws that might be reconfiled
and aggreit ; and this haueing bred fome fcruple and doubt in the
deponaris hairt and confcience, he thairupoun tooke occafioun, fimplie,
without choller or fpleene, to regrait the fame, faying, That he had hard
fome of our Minifteris of auld declair in thair fermonis, and teatche to
thair flocke, that light was no more contrair to darknes, nor Chrift to
Belial, nor we and the Eomane Churche ar, in pointis of faith and
doctrine. And deponis, That he is forie from his hairt that he fould
half challenged his Paftour in public!; vpoun thai pointis, and yf he
had thogt that offens wald haif bene tane at it, he wald neuer half
done it.
Denyis that he defirit the Minifteris to gif the Communioun in the
auld maner.
Johnne Hamiltoun, apothecour, demandit, yf he wes prefent at the
meeting foirfaid, and quhat wes his behauiour thair ; deponis, He wes
prefent at the faid meeting, whilk meeting is a ordinair cuftome in
our Churche vpoun the Twifday afoir the celebratioun of the Com-
munion ; and the deponner haueing hard Johnne Dikfoun impugne
fome pointis of doctrine vtterit be Mr Williame Forbes, anent the
materis contrauerted betuix ws and the Romane Churche, quhairin, as
the deponner thoght, the meeting gatt not fatiffactioun, he faid and
proponned this queftioun, That yf he wer to minifter phifick, his patient
had reffoun to trye yf the phifick wer goode and holefome, feing it
importit the weele of the body ; fo, we had mutche more reafoun to
trie the phifick of the faull, whilk is the fweete milk of the Worde : and
deponis, that he fpak this onlie vpoun occafioun of Johnne Dikfonis
744 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1624.
fpeecheis, and no othcrwaycs ; and denyis that he fpak ony thing con-
ci ruing the Comtnunioun.
Johnne Meine, marcheant, examined, grantis that he wes prefent at
the meeting foirfaid, and that he defirit Mr "Williame Strutheris to
minifter the Communion in the anld maner ; and grantis that cmhen
the people wer regraiting the point of doctrine foirfaid, vtterit he Mr
Williame Forbes, the deponner, perfaving Mr Andro Ramfay to laugh,
lie (aid vnto him, Weele, Sir, are yow laugheing at the regraitis of the
people: vow will anfuer to God for it. And he medlit no farder in
thefe materia.
Williame Slmsoun, mercheant, examined, grantis he wes prefent at
the meeting foirfaid, hot fpak no thing concerning the Communioun,
nor Mr Williame Forbes: grantis that he wes one of the Seffioun ;
regraitit that Mr Patrick Galloway attended not the Seflioun, nowther
vpoun the Sonday nor oulk day ; and grantis that he being defirit, as
one of the Seffioun, to ferve the table the tyme of the celebratioun of
the Communioun, he refuifed to do the fame.
Alexander Clerk, Prouefl of Edinburgh, demandit, quhat paft
betwixt him and the Nightbouris of the Toun at the Meeting foirfaid ;
deponis, That the Clerk of the Seffioun haueing, conforme to the ordour,
atkit of the people, yf tliay had ony thing to obie6t aganis thair minif-
teris, concerning thair lyffe and conuerfatioun ; Johnne Dikfoun, fleflieour,
raife vp, and with verie grite modeftie defirit to be heard ; whilk being
grantit vnto him, he (aid, That he hard Mr Williame Forbes delyuer
fome doctrine in a Sermone towcheing the contrauertit pointis betwix
ws and the Papiilis, whilk wes contrare to the doclrine formarlie taught
vnto him : and he, deiiring that his doubtis and fcruple anent that
point might be cleirit, the deponner refuifit to fufter ony medling to be
thairin, laving and mantening, That that place and meeting wcr not
judgeis el thair Paftouris doctrine, and that modeftie retpiirit that
the laid Johnne Could haif gone to his Paftour and oppvnnit vp his grief
vnto him, fra whom be wald haif gottin refolutioun and fatift'actioun
1624.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 745
anent his doubt ; and fo, commanding Johnne filence, he acquiefceit
and fpak no forder. And fome twa or three otheris preaffing to vrge
this mater of new, and that thair greivis in this point might be related
to the reft of the Minifterie, and Mr Williame challenged thairupoun ;
the deponner refuifit the fame, impofing fdence vnto thame, and fharplie
reprooueing thame for thair prefumptioun in thair public!; chaUange of
thair Minifter, of whome, in dewtie, thay fould haif craued refolutioun
of thair doubtis fecreitlie betwix thame felffis. Deponis, That quhen
the affemblie was riffin, and all vpoun thair feite, one, whome the
deponner faw not, bot hard his voice, cryed out, defiring the deponner
to caus the Minifteris gif the Communioun in the auld maner.
The other three Baillies, withe the Deane of Gild and Thefaurair,
adhere to this depofitioun, and wer conforme thairto.
CCCCLXXVIL— ACTS OF THE PRIVY COUNCIL.
(1.) Apud Haliruidhous, Octauo Junij 1624. '
Charge against Mr Robert Boyd and otheris.
Forsamekle as the Kingis Maieftie is credibillie informed that
thair is diuers perfonis refident in Edinburgh, or frequentlie comeing
thair, as namelie Mr Robert Boyd, lait Primer of the Colledge of Edin-
burgh, Mr Johnne Ker, Minifter at Preftoun, Mr Johnne Murray,
fometyme Minifter at Dunfermlyne, and Mr Thomas Hoig, a depofed
Minifter; who hinderis the obedience of the people to his Maiefties
lawis, and fteiris thame vp to continew in thair difobedience and dis-
conformitie to the ordouris of the Churche, heighlie to his Maiefties
offence, and contempt and mifregard of his Royall authoritie : Thairfoir
the Lordis of Secreit Counfell ordanis letters to be dire<ft chargeing
1 On the 10th of June, the Privy Council issued a " Proclamatioun aganis Conuen-
ticlis and dissobedient personis to the Ordouris of the Kirk." This Proclamation,
" penned, as is reported, by the Bishop of St Audroes," is printed in Calderwood's History,
vol. vii. p. 611.
5 B
746 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1624.
the perfonis particularlie aboucwrittin to compeir perfonalie befoir the
faidis Lordis vpoun the xxiiij day of Junij inftant, To anfuer to the
premiQes, and to heir and fee ordour tane thairancnt as appertenis,
vnder the pane of rcbellioun, &c, with certificatioun.
(2.) Apud Haliruidhous, xv Junij 1624.
Mr Robert Boyd.
Forsamekxe as Mr Robert Boyd, lait Primer of the Colledge of
Edinburgh, being chargeit to compeir befoir the Lordis of Secreit
Counfell vpoun the xxiiij day of Junij inftant, to haif anfuerit to the
informatioun maid of him to the Kingis Maieftie toweheing his remaine-
ing within the burgh of Edinburgh, and hindering the people thairof
l'ra thair obedience to his Maiefties lawis, and fteiring thame vp to
continew in thair difobedience and difconformitie to the ordouris of the
Kirk, heighlie to his Maiefties offence, and contempt and mifregaird of
his Royal] auctoritie : The faid Mr Robert, be his Supplicatioun gevin
in this day to the Lordis of Secreit Counfell, humelie defyrit, That
feing he wes now preparit and reddy to remoue his houfholde and familie
forth of the burgh of Edinburgh towardis his awne duelling within
Carrik, and that he was now vpoun the point of his remouall : That
thairfore he might be callit this prefent day, and not conftrayned
vnneceffarlie to attend till the faid xxiiij day of Junij : Quhilk Suppli-
catioun being hard and confidderit be the faidis Lordis, and thay find-
inn' the defire thairof to be reafonable, and the faid Mr Kobert being
callit vpoun, and he compeirand perfonalie, and the particulair aboue-
written, as alfua the keeping of Conuenticlis within the faid Burgh
being layed to his charge, he purgeit him felff bothe of the one and the
other, protefting that he nevir medlit dire&lie nor indirecllie in fuch
materia; and toweheing the faidis Conuenticlis, he declairit that he
nouthcr knew of thame nor allowit thame: With the quhilk declara-
tioun the faidis Lordis reftis fatiffeit, And ordanis the faid Mr Robert
to mak his addreffe to the boundis of Carrik, and to rcmayne thair, and
not to tranfeend the boundis thairof till he be fred be his Maieftie, as lie
will anfuer vpoun his obedience.
1624.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIES. 747
(3.) Apud Haliruidhous, xxiiij Junij 1624.
Act aganes Mr Johnne Murray and otheris.
Anent our Souerane Lordis letters dire6t makand inentioun,
Forfamekle as his Maieftie is credibillie informed that thair is diuers
perfonis refident within the burgh of Edinburgh, or frequentlie come-
ing thair, as namelie Mr Johnne Ker, Minifter at Prefton, Mr Johnne
Murray, fometime Minifter at Dunfermlyne, and Mr Thomas Hoig,
a depoifit Minifter, who hinderis the obedience of the people to
his Maiefties lawis, and fteiris thame vp to continew in thair diff-
obedyence and difconformitie to the ordouris of the Churche, heighlie
to his Maiefties offence, and contempt and mifregaird of his Royall
authoritie : And anent the charge gevin to the perfonis particularlie
abouewrittin to haif compeirit perfonalie befoir the faidis Lordis this
prefent 24 day of Junij inftant, to haif anfuerit to the premiffes, and
to haif feene ordour tane thairanent as appertenit, vnder the pane of
rebellioun, &c, with certificatioun, &c, lyke as at mair lenthe is con-
tenit in the faidis letters, executionis, and indorfatiouns thairof : Quhilkis
being callit, and the faidis Mr Johnne Ker and Mr Thomas Hoig com-
peirand perfonalie, and the faid Mr Johnne Murray compeirand be
Williame Murray his procuratour, who produceit a letter vnder the
faid Mr Johnne his hand, teftifeing his infirmitie and inhabilitie to
trauell, by a dangerous fall he laithe reffauit, wherwith his leggis ar hurte ;
The Lordis of Secreit Counfell haueing hard the declaratioun maid be
the faidis Mr Johnne Ker and Mr Thomas Hoig concerning the par-
ticular point aboue written layed to thair charge, whilk was altogiddir
denyit be thame, The faidis Lordis ordanis the faid Mr Johnne Ker to
addreffe him felff to his awne parroche of Preftoun, and to remayne
within the faid parroche, and not to tranfcend the boundis thairof,
and that he repair not towardis Edinburgh ; and the faid Mr Thomas
Hoig to addreffe him felff to the parrocheis of Kirkaldy or Dyfairt,
and thair remayne, and not to tranfcend the boundis thairof; And
ordanis the faid Mr Johnne Murray to conteine him felff within the
parroche of Foullis, and not to exceede the boundis thairof, and that
748 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G24.
mine of tliamc repair to Edinburgh without licence had from the faidis
Lordis, to that effect, as thay will anfuer to his Maieftie and the faidis
Lordis, vpoun thair obedience, at thair heigheft charge and parrel] :
And ordanis the (aid Williame Murray to mak intimatioun heirof to
the faid Mr Johnne Murray, quhairthrow he pretend no ignorance of
the fame.
CCCCLXXVIII.— THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL TO HIS MAJESTY
KING JAMES.
Most Sacred Socerane,
Wee reffauit your Maieflies lettre of the xxj of Maij, by the
whiche your Maieftie lies fett doun the forme of punifhemcnt, whilk
vour Maieftie will haif to be inflictit vpoun thefe of the Burgh of Edin-
burgh, who fo prsefumptuoullie cenfurit thair Paftouris preatcheing
vpoun Twyifday afoir Eafter laft : and, for obedience thairof, haueing
convenit and feriouflie aduifit vpoun the beft meanes of procciding in
the buffynes, finding it expedient to call the offendouris befoir the
Counfaill, that thair offence might be knawne to all the nomber, and
that the fentence might be pronunceit ordourlie agains thame, for
doling of the mouthis of the commoun multitude, who ar euer readdie,
vpoun the leaft occafioun, to mifconftrue all laughfull proceidingis, and
wald not haif failed to haif furmifed agains this, as being caryed by a
few nomber of felectit perfonis, whome thay accompt partial!, bccaus
wee are readdie, according to our bundin dewtie, to obey and execute
your Maiefties laughfull commandementis ; for this effect, wee cauiit
warne thame befoir the Counfaill to this prefent day. Lyke as thay
compeirit, and with the Prouelt, Baillies, and whole Minifteris, who in
ane voice declarit that Williame Rig wes come to ane grite acknaw-
ledgement of his formair mifbehaviour, and oute of a fingle and
humble liairt, had gevin fatiffactioun and contentment to the Minifterie
in all thefe materia whilkis bred the fcruple and offence amongis thame;
and that he had promeift, by a refpectiue and dewtifull behaviour, in
1624.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 749
tyme comeing, not ofilie to efhew all occalionis of new offence and
fcandall, bot by his goode cariage to give example of the lyke to otheris ;
and the Minifteris ar in opinioun of his future conformitie to all goode
ordour. And whereas thay feeke nothing bot ane peaceble Minifterie,
and to live in tbat vnitie and love with thair flocke that becometh,
thairfoir, thay humbly intreated ws for a mitigatioun of the fentence on
the pairt of the faid Williame, whilk thay thoght wald produce better
effects nor ony rigour that could be vfed agains him : And befydis this
thair declaratioun and intreatie, Williame Rig gaif in a verie humble
petitioun himfelf vnder his hand, quhairby he cleirit himfelf of fome
pointis wherein he wes miftaken in his formair depofitioun, as, namelie,
that point anent the power of the SeiRoun to cenfure thair Minifteris,
and to excommunicat ; wherein he affirmis, that he onlie meaned of the
Minifteris, with the Eldairis and Deaconis of whome the Sellioun is
compofed, and no otherwayes, and that he deteftes all opinionis of
populair power ouer the Minifterie, as fmelling of that odious opinioun
of the Browneiftis, quhairof he proteftis he is free, and difclames the
fame as being impious befoir God, fcandalous in a Reformed Churche,
and repugnant to all goode ordour : And twitcheing that point of his
confeffioun, where he grantit that he defyrit the Minifteris to celebrate
the Communioun after the auld maner, he proteftis folemnlie that he
never motioned ony fuche mater at the meeting foirfaid; bot being
demandit vpoun that point, and fua furpryfed vpoun a fuddane, and
not fully refolued thairanent, he made choife rather to confes, then by
ane vnaduifit denyall to be broght bak with a lie, whairanent he offerit
to fubmit himfelff to the declaratioun of the Proueft and Baillies ; who,
with fome otheris vnfufpecl; perfonis who wer prefent at the meeting
foirfaid, being demandit vpoun this point, thay all declairit, vpoun thair
grite oathes, that thair wes no fuche mater moved nor fpoken be the
faid Williame at that tyme. This petitioun, with the humble and
earneft requeift of the Proueft, Baillies, and Minifteris, being hard and
throughlie confidderit at the Counfaill table, and it being verie weele
knawne to the whole nomber, that your Maieftie, oute of your molt
religious difpofitioun towardis the propagatioun and advancement of
religioun, doe feik nothing in all this buffynes bot obedience to the
750 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1624.
ordouris and discipline of the Kirke ; thay thairfoir inclynit to fatii'fie
the Magiftratis and Minifteris in this poynt ; and lies confyned the laid
Williame in his awne houfe, till your Maiefties forder pleafoure be
knowne, and the reft ar direftit to the appointit placeis of thair
imprifonment and confyneing, except Symfoun, who, in refpeft of his
pouirtie, notour vnto ws, is maid prifonner in the tolbuithe of Edin-
burgh ; and thay ar all to keepe thair wardis till your Maiefties forder
pleafoure be decernit agains thame. Wee haif onlie gone this far for
the prefent, as a beginning of thair punifhement, and fhall hold the reft
ouer thair heades till wee fee vnto what conformitie this pairt of the
punifhement drawis thame : and quhen vour Maieftie falbe pleafed to
command forder heirin, vpoun the fignificatioun of your Royall will to
the whole Counfaill, it falbe obeyit. And fo, remembring our humble
and earneft prayeris vnto God for your Maiefties lang and happie reign,
wee reft
Youre Maiefteis moft humble and obedient
fubiedlis and feruitouris,
George Hat. Mar.
Melros. Ad. B. of Dunblane.
S. W. Oliphant.
Halyruidhoufe, the tent of Junij 1624.
To the King his moft facred and
excellent Maieftie.
CCCCLXXIX.— THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL TO HIS MAJESTY
KING JAMES.
Most Sacred Souerane,
Having, conforme to your Maiefties direction, commandit
1624.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 751
chargeis to be direct againis Maifter Robert Boyde, and the reft of the
Minifteris and otheris, whome your Maieftie ordanit to be confyned, for
their compeirance befoir ws, vpoun the tuentie fourt of this inftant, to
haif hard your Maiefties will anent thair confyneing, declairit vnto
thame, the faid Maifter Robert getting notice heirof, not onlie prepared
himfelff for a prefent obedience, and is this day vpoun the removing of
his houfhold and familie, bot to preveene the dyett, he prefentit himfelff
befoir ws, and by his petitioun humblie defyrit that he might be now
hard, and your Maiefties will declairit vnto him, and that he wer not
vnneceffarlie forced to attend till the faid tuentie fourt day, whilk wes
grantit vnto him. In his petitioun, he cleired himfelff of findrie impu-
tations, whilkis, as he alledgeis, ar obie&ed agains him, as, namelie,
that of the priuat meetingis and conventicles within Edinburgh, of the
whilkis he protefted, bothe by word and write, and vpoun his grite
oathe, that he wes ignorant and innocent, and that he nouther affifted
thame with his prefence, nor allowed of thame, nouther yitt buffyed
himfelff with thir churche materis, nor had no dealing with ony of the
burgh of Edinburgh, nor no otheris thairanent, bot behaved himfelff fo
calmelie and foberlie, as poffiblie he could, efhewing all occafionis, com-
panyis, and meetingis, whilkis might give the leaft mater of offence.1
And whereas he pretendit the neceffitie of findrie his adois throughout
the whole fhirefdome, and the rather, for that he had a ftranger to his
wyffe, of whofe contentment, befydis the educatioun of his childreene,
he behooved to haif a cair, and that he could nouther be accommodat
with the one nor the other, within the boundis of Carrick : Wee luving
hard and confidderit of his petitioun, wee wald not prefoome to enlarge
his confyneing without your Maiefties allowance, bot hes referued the
fame to your Maiefties awne goode will and pleafoure, wherein gif your
Maieftie falbe gratiouflie pleafed to fauour him, oure fimple opinioun is,
that no harme can follow thairupoun ; and gif thairafter he fal happin
to ouerfee himfelff, whilk wee looke not for, and fua fall proue vnworthie
of that fauour to be fhawne be your Maieftie vnto him, your Maieftie,
vpoun knawledge thairof, may give direclioun for his forder reftraint, as
1 See the Act of the Privy Council in favour of Boyd, supra, p. 746.
ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING
[1624.
your Maieftie fall think goode ; bot remitting this to your Maiefties
confideratioun, and hmnblie craving pardoun for this our prefumptioun,
we humblie pray God to bliffc your Maieftie with mony long and
happie yeiris, and wee reft for cuer
Your Maiefties moft humble and obedient
fubieclis and feruitouris,
A. M. Elphinston. George Hay. Laudekdaill.
An. Naper. Melros. J. Erskyne.
S. J. Hamilton. Kilsayth. Carnegy.
Hamilton. S. W. Olipiiant. R. Cockblrne.
Halyrudhoufe, the fifteene of Junij 1624.
To the King his moft facred and
excellent Maieftie.
CCCCLXXX.— THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL TO HIS MAJESTY
KING JAMES.
Most Sacred Souerane,
Youre Maiefteis letter, concerning the declaratioun of your
Royall will and pleafour, aganis Williame Rig and his complices, come
no foonnair to oure handis, whome your Maieftie firft intrufted thair-
with, bot thair went a current brute through this toun, of ane extra-
ordinair grite fyne to be impofed vpoun the laidis perfonis. How, or
fra whome this brute proceidit, we know not, and we will cleir oure
felffis, that, to this houre, we haif euer concealled that point anent the
fyne, and nowther aequentit the reft of the Counfell, nor no otheris
thairwith; and tor this we will humelie crave your Maiefteis pardoun,
and beg that 1'auour of your Maieftie, that youre Maieftie wald be gra-
tiouflie plefit to tak in goode pairt oure humble opinioun concerning
1624.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIKS. 753
this fyne, whairin, as the Lord knowis, we haif no other thing befoir
our eyis hot your Maiefteis honnour, and the generall content of youre
fubie<3is, who at the firft raifing of the vncertane bruite of this fyne,
quhairof the particulair is yitt vnknowne vnto thame, wer fo moued
with the rairnes of the mater, and the apprehenfioun of feare, vpoun
the preparatiue and confequence thairof, as we haif not hard of a mater
fo hardlie tane with, and fo dangerouflie apprehendit, be all rankis of
perfonis ; ffor the lyke of this fyne wes neuer hard of in this Kingdome,
and thair wes never a cryme (Taow grevous foeuir), whilk wes punifliable
be fyneing, that reffauit fuche a cenfure ; nor can the meanes of priuat
perfonis afforde fuche fowmes, and the man him felff, althoght in the
generall opinioun of the people he be welthie, is not knowne to haif fo
mutche ftocke as the fowme impofed ; and yf it be left in record, it will
importe the effe6t of ane forfeytour, and a depryveing him of his wholl
eflate, whilk in a mater of this kynd, refpe<5t being had to the qualitie
of the offence, and quantitie of the fyne, will not be warrandit be
example, and in the opinioun of mony, will not fubfift in courfe of
juftice. The confideratioun wherof lies moued ws hithertillis to con-
ceale the fyne,1 being perfuadit that the Counfell wald neuer allow
thairof, and we wer loathe that ony of your Maiefteis directionis fould
reffaue ane interruptioun, or hard interpretatioun. The reft of your
Maiefteis pleafour concerning him, and his affociates, by declaratioun
maid of thair being ever incapable of ony public!; fun&ionis, is fatiffeit,
and he mall keepe warde in the Blaknes, and the reft in thair wardis,
till your Maieftie, in the excellence of youre wifdome, compairing this
punilhement with the qualitie of the offence, fhall reffaue contentment,
wherwith we will moft humelie befeeke your Maieftie to reft fatiffeit,
and to pardoun our prefumptioun and bauldnes, wherin, as we haif for-
marlie faid, we haif no other refpecl hot your Maiefteis honnour, and
1 Calderwood states, that besides depriving Rigg of his office as one of the Magistrates
of Edinburgh, the Council were commanded by the King " to fyne him in a great sum,
50,000 pounds at the least, as is constantly reported." The cause of this rigour dis-
played towards him, beyond the ordinary punishment of warding or exile, was occasioned,
it seems, in Rigg having contributed liberally towards the printing of " the infamous
libells" against the Articles of the Perth Assembly.
5 C
7.54 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1624.
content of youre fubiectis. And fo, praying the Almightie God to
preferue youre Maieftie in healtbe and happynes, with a lang and bliffed
reignne, we reft for euer
Youre Maiefteis moil humble and obedyent
fubieelis and feruitouris,
George Hay.
Mar.
Melros.
S. W. Oliphaxt.
Haliruidhous, the firfl of Julij 1624.
To the King his mofl facred and excellent Maieftie.
CCCCLXXXL— THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL TO HIS MAJESTY
KING JAMES.
Most Sacred Souueraine,
We reffaued youre Maiefties lettre of the xxij of Junij laft, and,
to oure exceeding grite greiff, we perfaue that youre Maieftie lies tane
offence at oure proceidingis, in that mater concerning William Rig, and
that fentence wes not pronunceit aganis him, conforme to youre Maief-
ties direclioun, wherin we will humelie craue pardoun, to cleir oure
felfis, that no priuat refpecl nor confideratioun towardis the man could
haif induceit ws to ouerfie the leaft point of dewtie in the cxecutioun of
youre Royall conunandnicntis ; bot knoweing tliat youre Maiefties prin-
cipall ayme, in this and otheris materia of the lyke kynd, is groundit
vpoun a moft religious and princelie refolutioun, to haif youre Maiefties
law is, concerning the ordouris of the Churche, to be reuerentlie obeyit,
and a peccable and fruitful] Minifterie to be cftablifheit in this burgh ;
fo, at the dyet appointit for pronunceing of youre Royall will aganis the
faid Williame, he compeirit, accompanyed with the whole Miniiteris of
this burgh, and not onlie moft fubmifnuelic acknowlegeit his ouerlight
1621.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 755
in that Twifdays meeting, afoir Eafter laft, and cleirit him felff of fome
miftakingis in his depofitionis, and quhairin he had foryett him felff, by
granting a point never fpokin of be him in the meeting foirfaid; bot
with that the Minifteris, after a havye regrait maid be thame of thair
hard eftate and conditioun within this burgh, and how thay had a pur-
pois to haif beggit leave to haif left thair Minifterie, — in end, thay
declairit, that vpoun conference with the faid Williame, thay had reffauit
grite contentment and fatiffadlioun in the mayne pointis, wherin he pre-
tendit his doubtis, and wer in goode hoip of his future conformitie and
obedyence ; and that the reft of the nightbouris of the towne, who hes
the griteft hand in this buffynes, wald by his example do the lyke,
quhairupoun wald follow the peace of thair Churche, refpect to thair
perfonis, and a hairtlie and mutuall harmonie betuix thame and thair
flocke, whilk wes the onlie thing thay foght. And thairfoir thay
humelie interceidit for fauour vnto the faid Williame, and that the
declaratioun of youre Royall will aganis him might be deferred for fome
certane fpace. Thay being at lenthe hard, and the expediencie of thair
propofitioun debaitit at the Counfell table, and the Archiebifhop of
Sanclandrois, who, as youre Maieftie knowis, hes the griteft cair in thir
Churche materis, and whofe opinioun is mutche reuerenceit and followit
thairin, not onlie ioyned with the Minifteris, in thair propofitioun and
defyre, as the fitteft courfe to procure obedyence and peace in the
Churche, bot voited with ws, to the fuperfeiding of the declaratioun of
youre will and pleafour. This being the fimple trewthe of the cariage
and progres of this buffynes, we will humelie befeeke youre Maieftie to
accept the fame in goode pairt, as proceiding frome thame, whofe cheif
cair and indevoiris, in the charge and placeis quhairwith youre Maieftie
hes honnourit ws, is to approve ourefelffis worthie of oure charge, and
anfuerable to the trufte youre Maieftie repofeth in ws ; we haif depryued
the faid Williame frome his office of Baillierie, and hes declairit him and
the reft incapable of ony public! charge, in churche or towne, heirafter ;
and hes dire&it thame to thair warde ; and in all otheris thingis, quhilkis
may procure your Maiefties obedyence and contentment, the peace of
the Kirk, and refpecl; to the Minifteris, thair falbe no thing wanting in
ws, whilk to the dewtie of our place, as Counfellouris, and alledgeance,
750
ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING
[1624.
as humble fubieelis and feruitouris, appertynis. And fo, with the con-
tinewance of our humble and eirnift prayeris vnto God for youre Maief-
ties lang and happie reignn, we reft for ever
Youre Maiefteis moll humble and obedyent
fubieelis and feruitouris,
George Hay.
Melros.
S. W. Oliphant.
SR. J. Skene.
Ar. Naper.
Mar.
Lauderdaill.
R. CoKBURNE.
A. Gibsone.
A. M. Elphinston.
Morton.
Carnegy.
Linlithgow.
A. Ersktne.
Hamilton.
Kilsayth.
Haliruidhous, the firft of July 1624.
To the King his moll facred and excellent Maiellie.
CCCCLXXXIL— THE AECHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO [THE
VISCOUNT OF ANNAND.]
My very honorabill goode Lord,
I perceived by your Lordihip's letter that his MaielHe was not
pleafed with the courfe that the Councell tooke in thefe matters of
Edinburgh, fo as the whole ouerture which I lent with my Sonne ferueth
for nought at this time. I haue bene advertifed that vpon this his
Maiefties direction, the Councell hath done all that firft was required,
failing in the point of the fines, for which they haue given their reafons
of new to his Maicftie. To be punifhed by the purfe is a thing that
euer hath bene moil grieuous to Seottifhmen, and keepeth them molt
in aw. Wherefore the preparative is fo feared, that men feeke carefully
to efchue it, and yet I can not fee a reafon why thefe fines might not
be julllv impofed; not that I would haue wifhed them exacted witli
1624.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 757
rigour, if they would haue come to repent their infolence, but when
men faw what might fall vpon them in the like cafes, they would haue
become the more wife. Since my lafl writting to your Lordfhip, the
Minifters wer intreated to deale for the fufpenfion of the wardes of thefe
men that were commanded off the towne and put in the Tolbuith, but
when they dealt with them to keep order in time coining, and not to
runne from their owne communions, promifing not to vrge them with
the gefture of kneeling, they anfwered, That their confciences could
not fuffer them to communicat with thofe that kneeled, nor otherwife
then after the old manner. They offered to heare conference in that
point, but would promife nothing. Yet the Minifters, carefull of their
weell, wrote vnto me that I would requeft the Councell for a continua-
tion of their charge. I anfwered, That I feared his Maieftie fhould not
take well the continuation that was already granted, and therefore till
I heard how his Maieftie tooke the firft, I wold requeft no more. All
this was before his Maiefties letters came doun : Senfyne I haue heard
nothing from the Minifters, but by fome that hath fpoken with them 1
vnderftand that there is great malice borne vnto them, and that they
are fo wearied of their places, as they refolue all to leaue them.
There is no way to fettle that Church, but by the fetling of thofe
particulars which I fent vp to your Lordfhip ; but how they fhall be
vrged vpon them, except they were induced to entreate his Maiefties
fauour, I fcarce fee ; and I fear they fhall not trouble themfelues much
with it that is done. But if his Maieftie fhould be pleafed to write
another letter to the Councell, and fhow that fince thefe men who are
challenged were not only in the fault, his Highneffe would haue them
to trie the reft, and fpeciallie the keepers of the conventicles, it is pro-
bable that the feare thereof fhould fet them on to fupplicat for fauour,
and then conveniently thefe things whereof I fpeake might be vrged.
But I remit all the courfe of this to his Maiefties great wifdome, only I
will adde this, that if the occafion be loft that is now offered for remedy-
ing thefe diforders, and that there be not a conftant profecution of that
which is begunne, we fhall never fee an order againe in our Church, for
your Lordfhip fees how they are come to maintaine that a feparation is
lawfull and necefl'ary from fuch as are obedient to the conftitutions of
158 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1624.
the Church, which is a folly that will not he beaten out, without a heauy
and feuere correction. I wiih of God that his Maieftie were eafed of
thefe falheries, which I cannot think can euer be fo well and furely
done, as by the meanes I wrote of laft ; but therein I fubmit my opinions
to his Maiefties wifdome. The reafon why I do vfe the hand of another
in this writting, is a difeafe that hath vexed me this fortnight and more.
This day I had advertifment from my Lord of Stormont, that he is
tycd to the bed by a heauy fickneffe, whereof I feare the worft. Pray-
ing God to faue your Lordfhip, I now reft
Your Lorfhip's moft affured to ferve vow.
Dairfey, 6 Julij 1624. Sanctandrews.
CCCCLXXXIII.— THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL TO HIS MAJESTY
KING JAMES.
Most Sacked Souerane,
We reffaued youre Maiefteis lettre of the 21 of this inftant, by
the whilk your Maieftie recoramendit vnto ws the fearching and finding
out of the Conuenticlis keepit within the Burgh of Edinburgh. For your
Maiefteis fatiffactioun in whilk point, we thoght it firft expedient that all
of youre Maiefteis Counfaill, who wer this day conuenit in a frequent
nomber,1 fould be examined, vpoun thair grite oathe, concerning thair
knowledge of thir Conuenticlis; (pihilk being accordinglie done, and
thay haueing purged thame felffis thairof, thairafter we fend for the
Proueft, Baillies, and wholl Counfell of the faid Burgh, and verie ftraitlie
layed this mater to thair charge, as a cryme moft offenfiue to your
Maieftie, fcandalous to the Kirk, and moft pcrnitious and wicked, in
confequence and example, caryeing with it ane evident introduclioun of
thiiine, the brciding and foftering of errouris, and of inony otheris evillis
1 See the Sederunt on the following page, 760.
1624.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 759
within the Kirk; and we burdynnit thanie, owther to find out the
offendaris, or otherwayes youre Maieftie wald tak yow to the wholl
Towne. Thay wer verie grevit for youre Maiefteis offens agains the
Towne, and, with mony atteftationis, pleadit ignorant and innocent of
thofe Conuenticlis, and, by thair grite and folemne oathe, purgeit thame
felflis bothe of the deid and knowlege thairof, protecting that thay never
hard of fuche a mater ; and yf it wer trew, that in thair hairtis thay
deteftit it, as a point vnworthie to be fufferit or hard of within thair
Towne; and thay promeift the vttermoft of thair endevoiris to trye, yf
ever ony fuche offence hes bene committit, to the intent the pairtyis
found guiltie may be feueirlie punifhed.
"We intimat, lykewayes, vnto thame, youre Maiefteis will and pleafour
anent the Communioun, whairunto thay willinglie acquiefcit, with pro-
meis of conformitie and obedyence, humelie intreating youre Maieftie,
that yf ony foolifhe people of thair Towne fall ftand oute and be
refractar, that the weyght of youre Maiefteis wraithe fould light vpoun
thame felffis, and that youre obedyent fubiectis of the Toun fould not be
troublit for thair foleyis. We haif gevin diredioun to mak intimatioun
of the celebratioun of the Communioun, be proclamatioun at the Mer-
catt Croce of Edinburgh, vpoun Mononday nixt, and we haif infert, in
the proclamatioun, that fame certificatioun expreft in youre Maiefteis
lettre. This, for ane accompt of oure procedingis in this mater, we
humelie prefent the fame to youre Maiefteis confideratioun, with our
humble and eirnift prayaris vnto God for youre Maiefteis lang and
happie reignn. Frome Haliruidhous, the 29 of Julij 1624.
Youre Maiefteis moft humble and obedyent
fubie6tis and feruitouris,
George Hay. Mar. Morton.
RoXBURGHE. MELROS. LaUDERDAILL.
Carnegy. S. W. Oliphant. Hamilton.
Ar. Naper. Bdccleuche.
To the King his moft facred and excellent Maieftie.
760 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1624.
CCCCLXXXrV.— HIS MAJESTY'S MISSIVE TO THE LORDS OF PRIVY
COUNCIL.
Apud Haliruidhous, xxix Jidij 1024.
Chancellair. R. Ros. Thesaukair Depute.
Tiiesaurair. B. Dunblane. Clerk of Register.
Mortoun. L. Erskine. Ajduocat.
Glencairne. Merciiell. Kilsaithe.
Roxburghe. Carnegte. Fostersait.
Bugcleuuii. Mn of Elphinstoun. Sir Peter Young.
Melros. Mr of Jedburgh. Mr Robert Spottiswode.
Ane Act anent the celebratioun of the Communioun at Christmas.
Forsameikle as the Generall Affemblie of the Kirk haldin at
the burgh of Perthe in the moneth of Auguft 161S, &C.1
The Kingis Missiuefor warrand of the Act aboue icrittin.
[James R.]
Right truftie and weilbelouit Counfellour, Right truftie and weil-
belouit Cofines and Counfellouris, and right truftie and weilbelouit
Counfallouris, We greete yow weele. Now that We are come thus far
on Our progres, We haif more laifair to think on affairis thair, wbilk
hes moued Ws to add tuo articles till Our laft difpatche. The firft is,
concerning Conuenticles, the finding oute whereof We eirneftlie recom-
mendit vnto yow heirtofoir, and becaus We haif hard no thing frome
yow concerning thame, We haif thoght goode once agane to require
vow to cans thame be diligentlie fearched, and yf by your meanes yow
can find nane of them out, that then yow do, as We did after the xvij
day of December, wbilk wes to cans the Toun of Edinburgh thame
feline ro find out the offendaris, or els all to be guiltye of the cryme.
' The Proclamation founded upon this Act, is given at full length by Calderwood in
liis History, vol. vii. ]>. (iL.'L'
1624.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIES. 761
The other Article is, concerning the obftinacie of the people of Edin-
burgh in refufeing to tak the Communion kneeling ; and thairfoir it is
Our pleafour, that yow caus intimatioun be maid of the Communion to
be gevin in all the Churcheis of Edinburgh at Chriftmas next, and that
all perfonis, als weele of Our Preuie Counfell, Seffioun, Magiftratis of the
Toune as otheris of the Commontie, be all prefent and tak it Kneeling ;
whiche yf thay do not We will, for that contempt of God and Ws, not
onlie remoue the Seffioun, bot all otheris Courtis of Juftice from thame :
And the premiffes recommending to your fpeciall cair, "We bid yow
fairweele.
Gevin at Houghton Lodge the 21 of Julij 1624.
The quhilk day, the Lordis of the Preuie Counfell, who wer this day
prefent in Counfell, purged thame felffis by thair grete and folemne
oathe that nane of thame knew of the Conuenticlis keept in Edin-
burgh.
The quhilk day, Alexander Clark, Proueft, David Mitchell, Patrik
Someruill, Baillies, and Johnne Byris, Deane of Gild of Edinburgh, Wil-
liame Dik, James Inglis, James Cochrane, Alexander Speir, Gilbert
Aitchefoun, Gilbert Williamefoun, Johnne Fleming, Edward Ker,
Thomas Weir, George Simfoun, William Adair, James Guthrie, all of
the Counfell of the faid Burgh, and Mr Johnne Hay, Clerk therof,
compeirand perfonalie befoir the Lordis of Secreit Counfell, and being
feueralie demandit vpoune thair grite and folemne oath yf ony of thame
wer prefent at the faid Conuenticlis, or yf thay knew of thame ? Thay
all purged thame felffis be oathe, that thay wer nowther prefent at ony
fuch Conuenticlis nor knew of thame.
The quhilk day, the Proueft and Baillies of Edinburgh wer com-
mandit to try and informe thame felffis, by the beft meanes thay can,
yf ony fuch Conuenticlis hes bene keept in Edinburgh, and whair and
be whome ; quhilk thay, being perfonalie prefent, promeift to do.
5 D
762 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1624.
COCCLXXXV.— HIS MAJESTY'S MISSIVE TO THE LORDS OF PRIYY
COUNCIL.
| -I \mi:s R.]
Right truftie and right welbeloued Counfellour, right truftie
and right welbeloued Cofens and Counfellouris, and right truftie and
welbeloued Counfellouris, "We greete yow weele. Whereas we ar credi-
ble informed that Mr George Dunbar, being both depryved from his
Miniftrie and putt to our home, doth ft 111 publicklie preaehe at Air
(ane offence not onlie punifheable in the perfone of the committal", hot
alfo of the whole Magiftrates of that Towne, who fuffers fo dangerous a
precedent to be practifed) : And Mr Richard Dickfone, being lykewyfe
depryued and confyned in Dumbartane,1 preacheth thair in private
houli'es with ane grite concourfe of auditouris; And leaft by thair
fuggeftionis they may perfuade the people to be more obftinate in thair
din'obediencc to the Ordouris of the Churche whereunto thay ar of
thamefelffis cvill affected, It is Our fpeciall pleafure that ye caufe the
laid Mr Richard to be fent to Aire, and then both him and the faid
Mr George to be fent to Ireland, not to returne from thence without
Our fpeciall licenfe thairunto firft obtained, vnder all heigheft pane
whichc Ourc lawis can affoorde in the like cais. And expecting your
readie conformitic to this Our pleafure, "We bid yow fairwell.2
Gevin at Apthorpe the 30 of Julij 1624.
1 See note infra, page 706.
2 The above Utter is entered in the Minutes of the Privy Council on the 4th of Novem-
ber : the Provost and Baillies o}' Ayr had repeatedly been before the Council on account
of their Minister in 1624. Agreeably to this warrant, Dunbar was commanded " to
depart furth of this kingdome, with his family, and that he transport himself to Ireland,
between this date and the 8th of March following." On the 22d September, having
bet D summoned to appear before the Council, he declared his willingness, in obedience
t.> the King's will, to renounce ami quit his Ministry at the Kirk of Ayr for ever.
The following is a note of some of the entries in the Privy Council Register referred to : —
Edinburgh, 1 ltli March 1024. — The Provost and Baillies of Ayr charged to appear by
two of their number on the 25th, " to answer for not choosing a Minister to succeed in
1624.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 763
CCCCLXXXVL— ACT OF THE PRIVY COUNCIL.
Apud Edinburgh, xxv August} 1624.
Act infauouris of Mr Robert Bruce.
Anent the Supplicatioun prefentit to the Lordis of Secreit
Counfall be Mr Robert Bruce of Kynnaird, makand mentioun, That
quhair it pleafed the faidis Lordis laitlie to releave him from his confyne-
ment in Innernes, and to grant him libertie to repair to his awne hons
of Kynnaird, ypoun cautioun fund be him that he fould returne to the
burgh of Innernes betuixt and the firft day of September now approche-
place of their last Minister, who was laughfullie depryved, denuncit rebele, and put to
the horn."— (fol. 182.)
25th March. — The Provost and one of the Baillies " appeared personalie, and promised
to deale with their town to receive a qualified Minister, to be presented to theni by James
Archbishop of Glasgow." — (fol. 18-3.)
28th April. — The Archbishop having presented Mr William Annand, Minister, " a
learned, qualifeit, and modest persone," and the Magistrates having neglected to deal for
his reception, they are put to the horn — (fol. 188.)
8th June. — The Provost and Baillies commanded to send within 15 days and invite Mr
William Annand, or such person as may be recommended by the Archbishop, and " that
thay deale efauldlie and trewlie with the person swa to be recommendit, to accept the
office and function of Minister in thair town." — (fol. 190.)
6th August. — The Provost and Baillies of Air charged to appear on the 25th August,
" to answer and underly tryall and punishment for their offence and contempt in allowing
Mr George Dunbar to preach publickely within the Burgh of Air." — (fol. 205.)
25th August The Provost and Baillies " purged themselves by their great oath, that
the said Mr George had not preached within their said town since he was denounced
his Majesties rebell;" and they renounced the said Mr George to be their Minister, pro-
mising " never to acknowledge him for their Minister in tyme coming, and that thay sail
use thair best endeavouris for planting thair Kirk with ane qualifeit and learned Minister,
and that thay sail concurr with the Archbishop of Glasgow to that effect.
" Lykeas, the said Mr George being attending at the Counsell hous doore, and he
being callit vpoun and demandit, if he will renunce his Ministrie at the said Kirk ; he
answerit and declairit, that he wald acquiess to his Maiesties will and pleasure anent his
removeing from his Ministrie and charge in the Kirk of Air, and that he sould nevir
oppose himselff aganis the plantatioun of the said Kirk." — (fol. 206.)
764 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1624.
ing, and that in the meanetyme, fra his comeing fra Innernes to his
a\rnc duelling hous, and dureing the tyme of his aboad thair, and in his
returneing and going hack to Innernes, that he fould not preach, vnder
the pane of tua thowfand markis, quhilk cautioun he hes preeeiflie and
inviolatlie keeped : And quhairas now he is, at the pleafure of God, of
grite age, and is far worne and become waik, and vnable of his perfone,
without ftrenth or abilitie, to trauaill on horfe or foote, and the winter
feafoun drawis ordinarlie with it money dangerous deceaffis and infirmities
vpoun him, quhairwith he is all that feafoun in danger of his lyfe, and
be all appeirance, if he be compellit to abyde this winter in Innernes,
his lyfe wilbe in danger ; and feing lykewyfe he hes mony turnes to
outtrade at this approcheing terme, quhilkes touches him in his credite
and in his poore eftate, Humbhe defyreing, thairfore, the faidis Lordis
to prorogate the terme of his returne bak to Innernes vntill fome tyme
in the Spring, vpoun new cautioun to be fund be him, conforme to his
former cautioun, lyke as at mair lenth is contenit in the faid Supplica-
tioun : Quhilk being red, heard, and confident be the faidis' Lordis, and
thay being willing to fliew him fome favour quhairthrow he may in the
meanetime procure his Maiefties royall confent to a farder prorogatioun,
Thairfore the faidis Lordis hes prorogate the terme of this Suppli-
cant his returne bak agane to Innernes vntill the laft day of September
nixtocome.'
CCCCLXXXVII.— HIS MAJESTY'S MISSIVE [TO SIR GEORGE HAY,
LORD CHANCELLOR.]
[James R.]
Righte truftie and right welbeloued Counfallour, Wee greete yow
well. Wee were pleafed at your laft being with Vs to fignifie Our plefour
vnto yow concerneing diuers affaires in that kingdome, and amongft
others concerneing the fine impofed vpon Williame Rig ; and leafte the
1 In the proceedings of the Privy Council, we find no further notice of Bruce. After
the death of James, in March 1G25, he was permitted to remain under less restraint, and
occasionally to preach. lie survived till August 1031, having attained the 77th year of
— (Calderwood's History, vol. viii. p. 124.)
1624.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIKS. 765
multitude of other bufines rnigkte caufe yow negle&e or forget that
particulare, Wee haue thoughte good by thefe prefentes to putte yow in
minde thereof, requiring yow to vrge the leuying of the faid fine, accord-
ing to our former directions : And if the partie cenfured fliall thinke the
burden too heauie for him to beare, vpon his fubmiffion or fupplication,
Wee will vie fuch moderation, by remitting eyther a parte or all, as Wee
fliall fee iufte caufe : For as it is in Vs onlie to punilh or pardon accord-
ing to the nature of the offence, fo oughte no other fauing Our felfe to
be the gratious Lordes. And this remitting to your fpeciall care, Wee
bid yow farewell.
[Given at, &c.']
CCCCLXXXYIII.— THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL TO HIS MAJESTY
KING JAMES.
Most Sacred Souerane,
Your Maiefties letter of the 28 of Julij laft being this day pre-
fented to the Coinmiffionaris of your Maiefties affaires, and the feuerall
pointis and heades of the fame, tending bothe to the publict [good]
of the kingdome and the particulair goode of the burgh of Edinburgh,
being dewlie and at lenth confidderit be thame ; all your Maiefties
dire<5tionis expreft thairin wer thoght fitt to be proponit in Counfaill,
quhilk wes accordinglie done.
And toutcheing the firft point thairof, anent Papiftis and Puritanes,
the fayaris and heararis of Maffe, and the recepteris of Jefuites, Preiftes,
and trafficquing Papiftis, thair fhalbe nothing omittit in that point
quhilk to our charge and diligence apperteyneth.
Wee fend for the Magiftratis of the burgh of Edinburgh, and verie
earneftlio recommendit vnto thair cair and forefight, that no choife
fhould be made of Magiftratis for the yeir to come bot fuche of whofe
conformitie and obedience to the Ordouris of the Churche thair wes
1 The date of the above missive is not given ; but according to Calderwood, letters to
this effect, from the King, were dadressed to the Chancellor, in September 1624, although
not read in Council. — (History, vol. vii. p. 624.)
7GG ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G24.
goode affurance. Thav hail' promifed to be refpectiue and carcfull in
that point, and wee haif directed chairges againft thame and the whole
burrowis of this kingdome for this effect.
The direction anent the Counfaill, Seffioun, and meniheris thairof,
the Magiftratis and people of Ebinhurgh, tuitcheing tlie receaving of
tlir Communioun conforme to the late proclamatioun, fhalbe preceiflie
followed oute. f
Anent the deviding of the tonn of Edinburgh in parrocheis, and pro-
viding of thair Minifteris with competent ftipendis, that mater can not
be handled for the prefent, becaus the Toun is now vpoun the noniina-
tioun of new Magiftratis, and that point mofl be recommendit to the
nixt entrantis ; quhilk flialbe carefullie done, and the performance thairof
inftantlie vrged at the dounfitting of the Seffioun.
And toutcheing the catalogue to be made in euerie parroche of
Papiftis and difconforme perfonis, wee doubt not bot the tua Archie-
bifhoppcs who wer prefent will give directioun to the Minifteris to per-
forme there pairtis, and the catalogues being reported unto ws, wee
Ihall proccid as your Maieftie fliall think expedient to command.
Maifler George Dumbar and Maifter Richard Dickefoun being
chargit to this prefent day anent the direclionis fend doim be your
Maieftie for fending of thame to Ireland,1 Maifter George compeirit, and
declairit, that he thoght that his obedience gevin the laft Counfaill day,
by rerrunceing his Minifterie at the Churche of Air, quhilk he ratified
this dav, had bene a fufticient fatiffaclioun for him. He is ane decrepite,
poorc, aged man, quhilk moued ws to continew him to the nixt Coun-
faill day, and to recommend him to the Archibilhop of Glafgw, who wes
prefent, vnto whoine, if he give not fatiffaciioun betuix and that day,
the ordour prsefcryued by your Maieftie fhalbe followed oute.
Maifter Richard Dickfone* his abfence, and not keeping of this dyet,
• See No. CCCCLXXXV. In the History of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, by
the Rev. J. Seaton Reid, D.D. (vol. i. p. 113), honourable mention is made of Dunbar,
who became Minister of Lamp, in the vicinity of Antrim.
■ Mr Richard Dickson, one of the Ministers of St Cuthberts, Edinburgh, on the 7th
March 1619, having celebrated the Communion ''according to the laudable and ancient
forme of this Reformed Kirk; am! exhorted the people to stand to thair former liberty,"
he wa- 'ii the 1 1th March, before the High Commission, and without any long
1624.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 767
wes excuifed by reafoun of ane teftimoniall producet vnder the bandis
of the Minifter and Magiftratis of the Burgh of Dumbartane, teftifeing
that the laid Mr Richard, his wyffe, and nyne young, bairnes, ar all lying
deadlie feake of the fever ; and by his awne letters to fome of the
Counfaill he declairit, vpoun his oathe, that he had not expenfs to bring
him to this toun ; quhilk moued the Counfaill to continew him lykewayes
to the nixt Counfaill day.
Your Maiefties dire6tioun anent the impofing of the fyne vpoun
Williame Rig being proponit and impairtit to the Counfaill, fuche as
wer prefent in fmall nomber, inrefpecl; of the prefent vacance, fand the
mater to be of grite importance, quhairof the lyke lies not occurred in
this Kingdome, and that therefore the fame requirit the prefence and
advyfe of the whole or the molt pairt of the Counfaill, for quhilk pur-
pois wee hail' refolued to write for the haul nomber to be prefent at the
nixt meeting, vntill quhilk tyme wee will humblie befeeche your Maieftie
to haif patience.
This, for ane accompt of our proceidings at this tyme, wee humblie
prefent the fame to your Maiefties princelie confidderatioun, with oure
humble and earneft prayeris vnto God for your Maiefties lang, happie,
and bleffed regne, and wee reft for euer
Your Maiefties molt humble and obedient
fubieclis and feruitouris,
George Hay. Mar. Morton. .
Roxburgh. Bdccleuche. Lauderdaill.
R. COKBURNE. S. W. OUPHANT. HAMILTON.
Edinburgh, the 22 of September 1624.
To the King his moft facred and excellent Maieftie.
process, was deprived, and cormmtted to ward within the Castle of Dunbartane. — (C'al-
derwood's History, vol. vii. pp. 352-355.) Whether Dickson, in conformity with the
King's letter, supra, page 762, accompanied Dunbar to Ireland, is uncertain; but in
banishing such men to that country, the King was unwittingly rendering a very important
service to the cause of religion, and to the spread of Presbyterianism in the North of Ireland.
768 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1G24.
CCCCLXXXIX.— HIS MAJESTY'S MISSIVE [TO SHI GEORGE HAY,
OF KINNFAUNS, LORD CHANCELLOR.]
[James R.]
Right truftic and right welbeloued Counfellour, We greete yow
weele. Whereas We ar credibilic informed that Johne Dickfone and
Williaine Siini'one being, for thair miibehaviour aganis thair Paftouris,
committed to the Tolbuith of Edinburgh, ar releafed from thair warde,
and fuffered to remayne in thair awne houfles, We think it ftrange that,
being committed for a notorious offenfe, thay fould be fett at libertie,
without ather fatiffaclioun or acknawledgeing of thair offenfe, yea, and
without Our knawledge. As alfo, Johne Hamiltoun the Apothecar
hath not fo much as entered to the place where he wes to be confyned :
It is thairfoir Our fpeciall pleafure that ye caufe thame all thrie enter
into the places whiche wer at the firft appointed for thair feuerall
wardes,1 till upoun thair fubmiffioun, and order from Our felf, thay falbe
releafed. So not doubting of your care heirin, We bid yow farewell.
Gevin at Royftoun, the firft of November 1624.
CCCCXC— ACT OF THE PRIVY COUNCIL.
Apud Edinburgh, Quarto die mensis Nouembris 1 624.
Forsameikle as the Lordis of Secreit Counfaill ar informed be the
Reverend Father in God, James Arehbifhop of Glafgow, that [blank]
1 The above warrant being read at a meeting of the Privy Council, on the 9th
November, John Dickson flesher, William Simson, and John Hamilton, burgesses of Edin-
burgh, were commanded to enter the Tolbooth, and support themselves until they be
released. In regard of the known disease of his wife, " who now approaches the time
of her deliverie," Hamilton was thus allowed to remain in Edinburgh, " to be neere by his
wytl'e the tyme of hir seeknes;" and after her delivery he was ordered to keep ward, as
b.' had originally been commanded, in the burgh of Aberdeen.
1624.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIES. 769
Pryde, fonietyme Minifter at Huttoun,1 within the boundis of Annander-
daill, being depryved from his Miniftrie as a perfonc vnqualified and
not worthie to exerce fuch ane calling, doeth notwithstanding, to the
offence of God, contempt of the Ordouris of the Kirke, and fcandall of
the Miniftrie, ftill preatch and minifter the Sacraments at the faid
Kirk, gevand thairby evill example to otheris to do the lyke, if remeid
be not provydit. Thairfore the Lordis of Secreit Counfall ordanis and
commandis James Johneftoun of that ilk, within whofe bonndis the faid
[blank] Pryde remanis and exerceis the functioun of the Miniftrie at
the faid Kirk, that he on nawayes fuffer nor permit the faid [blank]
Pryde to preach nor to minifter the Sacramentis at the faid Kirk at
ony time heirafter, quhilk the faid James being perfonallie prsefent,
promeift to do.
CCCCXCI.— THE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDREWS TO THE EARL
OF ANNANDALE.
My very honourabill good Lord,
One inconveniencie begettis alwayis another. The Warrand fent
home for the Papiftis of Abirden2 caufed the Lordis grant ane fufpen-
fionn of thair horninge, qhairupon I am cited, by the copie enclofed,3 to
anfwer the laft of this monethe, and produce the decreit of the High
Commiffioun, with the reft that followed thairvpoun ; qhich is in effecl,
a fubie&ing of our decreitis to thair judicatorie, and the difanulling of
the Commiffioun, and authoritie of it. I am very vncertain how to
behave my felf, and fory to fee the preparatiue, qhiche wil not fail to
meit ws in other thingis ; but becaufe I wil not oppofe to his Maiefties
dire&ionis in ony forte, I think it beft for me not to compeir, and let
1 The name of Mr George Pryde, as Minister of the united parishes of Corrie and Hut-
toun, occurs in 1615. — (Assign, of Stipends.)
2 On the 1st of July 1624, the Privy Council had issued a warrand to the Provost and
Baillies of Aberdeen for apprehending excommunicated Papists within the borough, and
committing such persons to ward till further directions were received respecting them.
3 The paper here referred to is not preserved.
5 E
770 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1624.
the mater goe. I refavit the copie but this day, otherwyfe I had adver-
tifed your Lordfliip fooner, to half vnderikind his Maieftics plefure.
Thefe fam ar the people qhom by his Maicities own letter we cited to
the 2 of October laft, and qho denyit thair compeirance befor ws : Tit
had 1 concludit with my fell* to vie no executioun againft them, becaufe
of the prefent treaty with France, and thairfor diffemblit thair difobe-
dience for the tyni. The Bifhop of Abirden is fummoned lykwyfe, and
a number of the Minifteris, and qhat a clamour this fal mak, your
Lordfliip wil eafily judge.
I bail" awaited this moneth on fum refolutioun for thir effairis of
Edinburgh, but now muft back, after the fyue and twenty day, to St
Andrews, qhair many thingis ar not right, efpecially in the Divinitie
Colledge. The Erie of Mar cam yifternyght only to the Abbey, and
had a dangeroufe fal by the way, qhich I pray God may not trouble
him. "Wifehing your Lordfliip al happines, I reft
Your Lordfhip's to command,
Edinburgh, 18 Nouember 1624. Sanctandrf.ws.
To my very honourabill good Lord,
my Lord the Erie of Annandaill.
CCCCXC1I.— ACT OF THE PKIYY COUNCIL, AND HIS MAJESTY'S
MISSIYE TO THE COUNCIL.
Apvd Falkland,1 Decimo quinto die mensis Decembris 1G24.
Sederunt —
Chancell.uk. Stormoxt.
St Androis. B. Dimulaxe.
Melros.
1 On account of the fatal Pestilence which was raying in Edinburgh at this time, the
Privy Council had adjourned their meetings to Falkland.
1624.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 771
Directionis anent the Burgh of Edinburgh.
The quhilk day, in proefence of the Lordis of Secreit Counfall,
compeirit peribnallie Williame Dick baillie, Gilbert Kirkwoode, and
Mr Jokne Hay, as Commiffionaris direclit from the Proveft, Bailleis,
and Counfall of the Burgh of Edinburgh, to attend the meatting at
Falkland, to vnderftand His Maiefties will and pleafure in fuche particu-
laris as His Maieilie had commandit to be impairted vnto thame be the
faidis Lordis; and the faidis Lordis haveing fliawne vnto thame, and
caufed read in thair audience the miffiue letter vnderwrittin, with the
Articles following fend doune from His Maieftie to the faidis Lordis,
and thay haveing required of the faidis Commiffionaris to giue thair
names thairunto, the faidis Commiffionaris humblie craved of the faidis
Lordis that thay might haif ane copie of the miffiue and Articles to be
fhawne to the Counfaill of thair Towne, to the intent they might be
confulted and advyfed with thame thairanent, and promifed to giue ane
anfweir thairunto the nixt Counfall day : Quhairunto the faidis Lordis
agreed and confentit. Of the quhilk miffiue and Articles the tenour
followis : —
[James R.]
Right truftie and right welbeloued Cofens and Counfellouris,
and right truftie and welbeloued Counfellouris, We greet yow weele.
We haif reffaued a petitioun from the Proveft, Bailleis, and Counfall of
Edinburgh, wherin thay excufe thamefelffis of the diforders laitlie com-
mitted in that Towne, defireing that We fould accompt of thame as in
former tymes, and not poynte thame out as the onlie rebells in that
Our Kingdome, whilk excufe We could eafilie admitt, fo as we wer
allured not to be troubled with the lyke infolencies heirafter; for, as
We have alwyfe loued rather to pardone and pafs by faults committed
than to punifh thame with rigour and feueritie, fo We wolde be forie to
be driven to a neceffitie of vndoing that Towne, to whiche We haif ever
wifhed weele, and bene manie tymes beneficiall : But becaus We cannot
haif ony fuch affureance, vnles the caufes be taken away whiche bred the
confulioun whiche is amongft thame, befoir We determine in thefe laft
buffineffes, We will fee a courfe taken for preventing the like diforders,
772 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1624.
and for that effect haif caufed draw fome Articles whiche heirwith We
haif inclofed,1 to be proponed to thame, and performed with the gritteft
expeditioun that may be; For whiche it is Our pleafure that ye call
thame befoir yow, and vrge the prcefent accompliflimcnt thairof, as
thingis which We will haif to tak effect, both for thair benefite and the
furetic of Our obedience ; Whereunto, if ye fall find thame practicable,
We ax pleafed to difpenfe with the lait Proclamatioun of the Com-
munioun at Chriftmafie, and to continew the fame to the ordinair tyme
of Barter, Requiring vow to deale effectuallie in this bufines, and mak
thame fee thair owne goode and benefite thairin, that the fame being
willinglie imbraced by thame, We may haif the occafioun to continew
Our wonted favoure, according as thay defire : And heirin perfuading
Our felf of your care and diligence, We bid yow fareweill.
Gevin at Kcwmarket, the 26 day
of Nouember 1624.
CCCCXCin ACT OF THE PRIVY COUNCIL.
Apud Falkland, Deeimo qirinto die mensis Decembvix 1624.
Dispensation with the lJroclamatioun anent the Communicating at
( '/uistmas.
Forsajiekle as althoght the King's Maiefiie vpoun diuerfe goode
refpecls and confiderationis, warrandit be the Cannons of the Church
and Lawes of this Kingdome, did command and ordaine that the
Milled Sacrament of the bodie and bloode of our Lord and Sauiour
Jefus Chrill fhould be celebrate in all the Kirks of Edinburgh at this
1 A copy of tin' Articles referred to is inserted immediately after tin' above letter, on
the 15th of December 1624. As these are repeated in the Privy Council Register, along
with the Answers of the Provost and Magistrates of Edinburgh, transmitted to King
Charles, in the following year, they are given, accompanied with his Majesty's marginal
remarks upon the several Answers, at a subsequent page,
1624.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 773
approcheing Chriftmatre, and that all the inhabitantis of the faid burgh
lbuld tak the fame kneeling ; yitt his Maieftie, vpoun the humble peti-
tioun of the Magiftratis and Counfall of the laid Burgh, vnto the quhilk
his Maieftie lies ever wifhed well, and lies bene [many] tymes bene-
ficiall, and thairwithall haveing vnderftoode by letters from fome of the
Pradatis of the Churche, that vpoun conference had be thame with the
Minifteris of the faid burgh, they haif fund that the myndis of fome few
of the inhabitantis who lies bene averfe, and yit ignorantlie ftands out in
thair opinionis aganis the ordouris of the Church and lawis of the King-
dome, could not be feafonned and difpofed in fo fhort a tyme to that
uniformitie of obedience whilk thair dewtie and alledgeance required ;
And that nevertheles they wer in goode hoip, if they had fome longer
tyme and leafour to deale with the faidis inhabitants, that monie of
thame wald hecome more peaceable and obedient, His Maieftie, follow-
ing his accuftomate gratious inclinatioun rather to pitie nor to punifh
the errouris and faults of his people, and by a loueing and fatherlie beha-
uiour patientlie to abyde fome tyme of thair amendement, and by gentle
and fair nieanis rather to reclame thame from thair vnfatled and evill
groundit opinionis, nor by feueritie and rigour of juftice to inflict that
punifliment whilk thair mifbehauiour and contempt meritis, His Maief-
tie hes bene gratiouflie pleafed, by his letter dire6t to the Lordis of his
Privie Counfall, bearing dait the twentie fex day of Nouember laft, to
fignifie his Royall will and pleafure, That his Maieftie is content to dis-
penfe with the lait Proclamatioun for the Communioun at Chriftraaffe,1
and to continew the fame to the ordinair tyme of Eafter. And thair
the faids Lords ordanis letters to be direct to mak publicatioun heirof
be oppin proclamatioun at the Mercate Cros of Edinburgh, quhairthrow
nane pra3tend ignorance of the fame.
1 The King's letter is not recorded. The Proclamation referred to in the above
Act of Privy Council, is entered in the Minutes 29th of July 1624. As already noticed
at page 760, a copy of it, which enjoined the celebration of the Communion on Christmas
Day, in all the churches of Edinburgh, in the manner prescribed, is contained in Calder-
wood's History, vol. vii. p. 622.
774 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [162.;
CCCCXCrV— HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE LORD CHANCELLOR
OF SCOTLAND.
James R.
Right truftie and right weele beloued Counfellour, We greet
you weele. Much earned nut being made to Us by the French Embaf-
i'adour in the behalfe of the Roman Catholicks (as they terme them) of
that Our Kingdome, requyring that, in regaird of this marriage (which
ought to be a tyme of publick rejoyfing, wherein all perfons ought to
be fet at libertie) We wold mow them fauour, We were pleafed to write
to the Archhifchop of St Androis to furceafe all trubling of them, cither
by citatioun to compeir before any Judges, or by Excommunicatioun, till
Our furder pleafure mould be knowen, the faidis Recufants giuing no
publick offence : And therfore We have thought good by thefe prefents
to acquaint you with Our forfaid pleafure, to the intent, that if any
buffines fall aryfe upon any former Excommunicatioun or Horning for
materis of Religioun which fall be brought before Our Counfell, ye fall
caufe it be difmifled with the leaft ftirre or noyfe which may be. And
this recommending to your fpeciall care, We bid you fairweill.
Given at Our Manour of Theobalds,
the 12th day of Januarij 1625.1
CCCCXCV.— JAMES DOUGLAS, GENTLEMAN OF THE BEDCHAMBER,
TO THE LORD CHANCELLOR OF SCOTLAND.
Bight Honorable and my much uonored good Lord,
His Maicftie having written to your Lordfhip concerning the
1 Indorsed. — " King James's Letter to Sir George Hay, Chancellour, concerning Catho-
licks, 12 Januarij 102.5." From a contemporary transcript by Sir James Balfour: but
the peculiarly corrupt orthography of his transcript is not retained.
1625.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 775
Recufantes of that Kingdome, willed me (when I prefented the fame to
be figned) to write to your Lordfhip to keepe the letter to your felfe,
and communicate it, or the contentes thairof, to as few as might be,
which I interprete to be, in plaine Englifh, to none at all. And, for
anie thing which I could gather a far of, he defired not that your
Lordfhip fhould communicate it to the Archbifhop of St Andrewes :
And this is all what I can write of this purpos. I am forie that I am fo
barren of mater. I haue no other thing to write worth your Lordfhip's
reading, onlie I muft by thefe prsefents moll humblie craue your Lord-
fhip's pardon, that hauing fent three feuerall pacquetts to your Lord-
lhip, I wrote nothing my felfe, which proceeded neyther of neglecte of
my dewtie, nor frome lack of good will, but partlie frome lack of time,
being tyed to fafhious attendance, and partlie lack of mater. Thefe
other two letters frome the Prince Sir James Fullerton fente to me,
defiring me at the firft commochtie to fende them home. So, hauing no
furder wherewith to trouble your good Lordlhip at this time, I humblie
take my leaue, and remayne
Your honorable good Lordfhip's mofte humble
and deuoted feruant,
J. Douglasse.
Theobaldes, the 12th of Januarie 1625.
To the righte honorable and my much
honored good Lord, the Lord High
Chancellour of Scotlande.
CCCCXCVI ACTS OF THE PRIVY COUNCIL.
Apud Edinburgh, Decimo tertio Januarij 1625.
Warrand to Williame Hit/.
Anent the Supplicatioun prasfentit to the Lords of Secreit
Counfaill be "Williame Rig, merchant burges of Edinburgh, makand
77'. ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1625.
mcntioun, That quhair Iiis bedfellow being grite with child is become
vcrie feeklie and infirme of bodie, and hir indifpofitioun and weaknes
is grittumlie increafed, partlie through the grieff fho conceaves for his
abfence and trouble, and pairtlie for the feare fho apprehendis of the
forder growth of the contagionn and plague quhairwith it has plealit
God to viiite this Burgh; whilk lies fo perplexed and difeouraged liir
that fho can nather receave comfort hirfelff nor provyde for the ordour-
ing and removall of hir familie, in this fo exigent and dangerous a
tyme, without fho be affifted by his prefenee, counfall, and direetioun,
Humblic, thairfore, defireing the faidis Lordis to free and releavc him
of his prad'ent warde within the Caftell of Blaknes for fome certane
fpace, to the eftecl; he may attend his bedfellow during hir i'eeknes, and
tak fome eourfe for the ordouring and tranfport of his familie, in the
tyme of God's vifitatioun ; lykeas at mair lenth is contenit in the faid
Supplicatioun : Quhilk being red, hard, and eonfidderit be the (aide
Lords, and thay finding the defire thairof to be reafonable, The Lords
of Seereit Counfall lies thairfore frid and releavit, and be the tennour
heirof freiths and releavs the faid Williame Rig of his prsefent ward
within the Caftell of Blaknes, and grantis him libertie and licence to
repair to his houfe of Mortoun, thairin to remane for the comfort of his
bedfellow and fecuritic of his familie in this tyme of trouble untill the
Lift day of Februar nixt to come : Quhairanent thir prudent s falbe ane
warrand not onlie to the faid Williame Rig hot alfo to the Captane,
Conftable, and Keeparis of the Caftell of Blaknes, for putting of the
laid Williame to libertie and freedome furth of the fame.1
Proclumatione aga?ils Infamous LibeUis.
FousA.MF.Ki.r. as the Ivingis Majeftie is certanelie informed that
diuerfe turbulent and feditious perfonis ar come, at the leafl arcomeing,
frome the Low Countreyia of Flanderis to this Kingdome of Scotland,
to ftirr up tumult and difordour, by falfe and malicious reports, and
imbringing and difperfing of feditious wreitta and printed pamphlette
Warrants about the same time were granted by the Privy Council to Dickson and
Simpson, (sec page 7G8,) who were warded, allowing them also, under special restrictions,
to attend to their private affairs.
1825.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 777
and bookis ; for preventing of the effects of quhilkis mifcheavous courfes,
The Lorclis of Secreit Counfall ordanis letters to be direct, cbargeing
Officiars of Arnieis to pas to the Mercat Croceis of the heid Burrowis
and Sea Portis of the Kingdome, and thair, be oppin proclainatioun,
to command and charge all and findrie Magiftratis of Burrowis and
Townes, Cuftomars, Searchers, and other Officiars, and Minifters of his
Majefties lawis, that thsy on nawayis fuffer ony fhip or fhips comeing
from the Low Countreyis of Flanderis fett ony one of thair merchands
pafiengers equippage, or companie quhatfumever, on land or fhoire, till
firft fo exacl; fearche be maid by the faids Magiftrats, Searchers, and
Cuftomars, and others foirfaids, whome it apperteinis, as [that] all fuch
letters, wreitts, and buiks as falbe found within the faids lhipis be maid
lure, and not fufferit to be difperflt or delyverit to ony perfone quhat-
fomever, till fail they be prefentit to the Lordis of Secreit Counfall, or
fuch as thay fall appoynt to that effecl. And that they tak and appre-
hend all fufpecl; perfonis, yf onie be fund in the faids fhips, and fpe-
ciallie fuch as falbe fund to be imbringaris of the faidis wreitts, buiks,
or pamphlet ts, and prsefent thame befoir the faids Lordis of Secreit
Counfall, as the faidis Magiftrats, Cuftomars, Searchears, and others
foirfaids, will anfweir vpoun thair alledgeance, at thair heigheft charge
and perrell.
CCCCXCVn.— ACT OF THE PKIVY COUNCIL.
Apud Edinburgh, Decimo nono January 1625.
Anent the Town of Edinburgh.
The quhilk day, in prsefence of Sir George Hay of Kinfawns
knight, Lord Heigh Chancellour of Scotland, Johne Archibifchop of St
Androis, and Thomas Earle of Melros, Prasfident of the Counfaill and
Secretair of this Kingdome, compeirit perfonallie Alexander Clerk,
Proveft of the Burgh of Edinburgh, John M'Nacht, Williame Dick,
Andro Purves, and Archbald Tode, Bailleis of the faid Burgh, John
77*
ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING
[1625.
Byaris, Deane of Gild, and George Sutie, Thefaurar of the laid Burgh,
Mungo M'Caull, David MitchaelL Xicoll Ydwart, Gilbert Kirkwoode, and
Thomas Weir, with fome otheris of the Counfall of the laid Burgh, and
Mr Jbhne Hay thair Clerk, and gave in thair Anfweirs in wreitt to the
Articles lend doune be his Majeftie touching the diitributioun of the
laid Burgh in feverall parodies, and provifioun for the Miniftrie of the
fame Burgh with competent ftipends ; and toucheing certain vther poynts
mentioned in the faids Articles, quhilks his Maieftie recommendit to be
performed be the Magistrats of the laid Burgh, and of the quhilk
Articles the Commiffionaris of the faid Burgh gat ane copie at the lait
meeting at Falkland vpone the fiftene day of December laft. Quhilks
Anfweris being red and confidderit be the faidis Lordis. and they not
being fatiffied -with findrie points of the fame, The faidis Lordis gait
I Kick the faidis Anfweris to the faidis Proveft and Bailleis to be re-
formed be thame, and affjgned vnto thame, with thair awne confent, the
twentie fex of this inftant to report to the faidis Lordis thair Anfweirs,
reformed in fuch particular heads wherein the faidis Lordis wer not
fatiffied.1
CCCCXCVIII.— ACT OF THE PPJVY COUNCIL.
Apud Edinburgh, Tertio die mensis February 1025.
Sederunt —
( 'haxlell.uk.
Thesaurair.
\V i.\ to ex.
Linlithgow.
Perth.
Roxburgh,
eugh.
Melros.
Lai hi khaill.
L. Erm
( ' LRNEGIE.
M" OF Elpiuxstoux.
M" of Jedijurgh.
Thesaurair Depute.
1'i;i\ ir. Seale.
ELllsayth.
Advocat.
In.xerteill.
«'l KHIEUILL.
Humors.
Durie.
sik Robert Spottis-
WOODE.
Sik Johns Scott.
' No further notice, during the reign of James, is taken of this matter in the Acts
• i Privy Council ; but after the accession of King Charles the proposed arrangement
■ lu.le.1 : S,.,- N,„. CCCCXCIX 1)1.
1625.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 779
Warrand to Williame Rirj,
Anent the Supplicatioun prefentit to the Lordis of Secreit Coun-
faill be Williame Rig, marcheant-burges of Edinburgh, makand men-
tioun, That quhair it is knowne to the faidis Lordis how that he lies
bene this lang tyrae bigane prifonare in the Caftell of Blaknes, upoun
occafioun of fome fcruple and doubt apprehendit be him toucheing cer-
tane of the lait eftablifched Ordouris of the Kirk ; and by reafoun of
this his imprifonement, he hes bene difhabilled and reftraynit from all
occauonis alfweele of conference as otherwayes with learnit men, whereby
lie may reffaue fatiffacStioun and clear refolutioun in his faidis doubtis ;
and fo long as he is in prifoun in the faid Caftell this impediment and
hinder will continew : Humblie defyreing, tbairfore, the faidis Lordis to
confyne and warde him in fome certane place within the Shirefdome of
Fyffe, quhair he may haif ane occafioun of conference with the Right
Reverend Father in God, Johne Archibiihop of St Androis, and fome of
the Miniftrie, for his better cleiring and refolutioun of thefe doubtis and
fcruples, quhilkis procuirit his reftraint, lykeas at mair lenth is contenit
in the Supplicatioun ; Quhilk being red, hard, and confidderit be the faidis
Lordis, and they being willing to favour and affift the faid Williame Rig,
by all laughfull meanis, quhilkis may ferve for clering of his doubtis,
and geving vnto him fatiffadlioun in the matters abouewrittin, The
Lordis of Secreit Counfall hes thairfore confynit and wardit, and be the
tennour heirof confynis and wairdis the faid Williame Rig within the
place of Adernie, and thrie mylis thairabout, and ordanis him to remane
and keepe warde within the fame, and not to tranfcend the boundis
thairof, as he will anfweir to his Maieftie, quhill he be fred be the
faidis Lordis, with power alwayes to the faid Williame to repair to-
wards the faid Archibifhop of St Androis, at fuch pairts and placeis
within the faid Shirefdome of Fyffe as falbe appoyntit vnto him be the
faid Archibifhop, and conforme to his warrand to be fend to the faid
Williame to that effect, and to remayne and confer with the faid
Archibiihop, for cleiring of his doubtis, for fuch tyme and fpace as the
faid Archibifhop fall require him : Quhairanent the faid Arcbibifhop his
Tsii
ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1624-5.
letter, in wreitt, to be direct to the faid Williame, falbe vnto him, in
that behalf, a fufficient warrand and exoneratioun.1
CCCCXCIX.— ANSWEBS OF THE PROVOST, BAILLIES, AND COUNCIL OF
EDINBURGH, TO HIS MAJESTY'S ARTICLES, FOR DIVIDING THE
TOWN INTO PARISHES.
Apud Edinburgh, Vigcsimo nono die mensis Julij 1625.2
Sederunt —
Geo. Cancell.
the8auraib.
st axdrois.
Morton.
WlNTol'S.
Perth.
roxbi rgh.
Meluos.
Lauderdaill.
L. Erskini:.
CaHNEGIE.
M" OF ElPHIXSTOUN".
MK of Jedburgh.
Privie Seale.
Thesaurair Depute.
Clerk of Register.
Advocat.
Inxerteill.
Cukriehill.
SE Robert Spottis-
woode.
The whilk day the Proveft and Bailleis of Edinburgh, and the
Sax Minifteris thairof, compeiring befoir the Lordis of his Maiefteis
Privie Counfell, and the Anfweiris of the Proveft, Bailleis, and Counfell
of the faid Burgh, fend vp to His Maieftie to the Articles fent doune
lie His Maieftie vnto thame, anent the devyding of the faid Burgh in
Paxocheis, and providing of thair Minifteris with competent ftipandis,
and His Maiefteis Xote vpoun everie Article of the i'aidis Anfweiris being
ihawne to the faidis Proveft and Bailleis, and ane copie thairof delyvcrit
1 After Charles's accession, Rigg presented a petition to the Privy Council, on the 8th
of July 1625, and obtained a further extension, allowing him to repair to Edinburgh " for
settling of his affairs and business." At length, on the 20th of September 1626, his Majestg
addressed a letter to the Privy Council, dated 14th of June, authorising Rigg to be
released and set at liberty, the Archbishop of St Andrews having declared " that he was
satisfied with the -aid Williame his resolutioun to carrie himselff in a dewtifull manner
heirafter."
1 Inserted in the Register, on the penult of August 1625, having been omitted under the
proper date, the 29th of July, as attested in the margin by J. Pryuirois, Clerk of Council.
1624-5.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS.
781
vnto thanie, tliay wer ordanit to gif a direct anfweir thairto vpoun the
penult of Auguft nixt to come.
Answeiris of the Provest, Bailleis, and Counsell of Edinburgh to
the Articles deltverit vnto thame be the Lord Chancellour
AND OTHERIS OF HIS MaIESTEIS MOST HONNOURABLE PrIVLE CoUNSELL.
The Proveft, Bailleis, and Counfell of Edin-
burgh haveing confidderit the Articles vnder-
writtin, delyverit vnto thame by the Lord
Chancellour and otheris of his Maiefteis moft
honnourable Privie Counfell, doe acknowledge
with all humilitie the manie favouris conferrit
vpone thame be his Maieftie, togither with the
grete care and folicitude his Maieftie lies for
never repented him of fatling the peace and quietnes of this his Maie-
ony favour bestowed on fteis goode Towne, Whiche as it moft concernis
thame vnder his Maieftie, So it becometh
thame to obey and reverence all his Maiefteis
royall intentionis for procureing, intertenying,
and continwatting the fame ; Bot with all do
moft humblie intreate his Maieftie that thefe
liberties and priviledgeis, whilk thay haif former-
lie vnder his Maieftie enioyed, concerning the
maner and forme of planting of the Kirkis of the
faid Burgh with Minifteris, and decent ordour to
be obfervit be thame, mair at lenth fett doune
after the Anfweiris to the Articles vnderwritten,
may not be that occafioun be prejudged or
diminifhed : Bot it might pleas his Maieftie to
give his expres Declaratioun that the fame fall
ftand in the full force and ftrentb, and to that
effecl; to grant ane Batificatioun of the fame
former priviledgeis, as the fame is heirefter
annext after the faiths Anfweiris to the faidis
Articles.
We ar persicadit that
Our late deare Father
that Towne, and icishe
that thay may never
prove vnworthie of the
same; nor do We in-
tend to diminishe ony
thair liberties, or hinder
ony decent ordour to be
keept in thair Churche,
Sot till thay satisfie
Oure desire thay aught
not to mah new Propo-
sitionis vnto ws.
782 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1624-5.
FoLLOWIS THE ARTICLES AND AnsWEIKIS TO THE SAME.
1 . Art. — Forasmuch as the Minifters of Edinburgh cannot poffiblie dif-
charge thair dewties vnto that people fo long as they ax not diftinguiihed
in particular parochines, His Maieftie requireth a prsefent ordour to be
taken for diftributing that multitude into feuerall congregatioins with
the great eft equalitie that maybe had; for, befydis that all populous
cities and townes in the whole Chriftiane world ar fo ordered, the
Ma filtrates and Counfell of Edinburgh did thame felffis condifcende,
after the fevententho daves work, to the diftributioun required, Like as
the fame was put in practife and continewed fome yearis, vntill the
Minifteris then in place wer putt from thair charges for thair vndutifull
behauiour towardis his Maieftie ; after which tyme things turned back
to the auld confufioun.
Anfw. — It is anfweirit to the Firft Article,
The Proveft, Bailleis, and Counfell of Edin-
burgh agrie and confent that the Towne of
Edinburgh and Inhabitants thairof be diftri-
We ar satisfied with bute in feverall Parochines or Congregationis,
this Answeir, the samp and fall appoint thair diftinct limites according
being performed. to the fame diftributioun that fonnerlie bes
been maid, the fupplie and acceftioun of the
Kowgait, Weft Port, and Cannogait head being
proportionallie distribute amongis the faidis
Parochines, according as the fame lye ewefi
vnto thame.
2. Art. — This diftributioun required molt be maid, as at that tyme wes
done, in foure parochines, and two Minifteris appointed to cverie paro-
chine, fo that the Towne fall baif eighl Minifteris in the whole, and of
that nomber the Principall of the Colledgc fall alwayes be one.
Anfw. — To the Second it is anfweirit. That
This Answeir doth like- this diftributioun fall be maid in four parochines
wayes satisfie, hot We or congregationis, and that thair fall be two
will haif thame present- Minifters appointed to each Parochine : fa that
lie to condiscend either the Towne fall have eight Minifters in the
1624-5.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS.
783
upon the eight Minis- whole, with this provifioun alwayes, that it fall
teris or tak the Princi- he in the optione of the Proveft, Baillies, and
pall of thair Colledge Counfell of Edinburgh, whether the Principall
for one. of the Colledge fall be one or not.
3. Art. — Thefe Minillers moft be provydit of houfes to refide within
thair l'euerall Parochines, which fall be known to be the houfes of the
Churche, and with mantenance fufficient, which in that Towne can be
no lefs than twa thouland merkis Scottis to everie Minifter, and aught
to be payed in all reafoun by the people that hue vnder thair cuire.
This may be done aither by impofeing a certane Annuitie vpoun everie
houfe and tenement within the parochines, as is done here at Londone,
and in other weill ordered cities, or by fome other convenient meane
that may be devyfed. And till this tak effedt the Towne moft beare the
charge of the whole.
Anfw. — It is anfweirit to the Third Article :
And firft, to the tirft pairt of the fame, That
the Townes houfes which they haif in the Kirk-
yaird, being thrie in number, being fillit and
occupyit, viz., twa of thame be the Minifters of
Parochine ; and the third with ane of
the Minifters of Parochine ; and to
provide the remanent houfes to ilk Minifter in
his awin Parochin. And to the fecond pairt
thairof it is anfweirit, That the Minifteris of this
Burgh ar provided eache man with a fufficient
houfe to dwell in, maill trie, with a yeirlie ftipend
of twelf hundreth merkis Scottis, thankfullie
payed to thame, conforme to the agriement
maid with thame at thair entrie to thair chairges :
and fince the Commoun guid is not abill to fuf-
tene the burthen alreddie impofed thairupoun,
and of reafone audit not to be thralled to the
payment of the Minifteris ftipendis ; and that
the augmentatioun defired, both in matter and
maner, does crave mature advyfement, thav
We haif shewed Oure
mynd in this poynt to
those of Oure Counsell
whome We haif trusted
with this bussienes, and
will haif the provisionis
required to tak a begin-
ning at fardest in the
yeir 1626.
784 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1624-5.
mod humblie intreate his Maieftie to pardoun
thame that they cannot give Anfweir to the
fame at this prefent; and to fpaire the fame
till the reft of the Articles be firft difcuffed,
and the diftributioun defired, in maner con-
tcnit in thefe Articles and Anfweiris under the
fame annexed, be firft fatled, and brocht to
pcrfectioun.
1. Art. — Euerie Paroche fall lieirafter be governed in matteris Ecclefi-
afticall by thair Minifteris and proper Seffioun, conform e to the order
of othere Churches in the Kingdome. Whiche Seffionis falbe elected
yearlie in euerie Paroche eight or ten dayes after the eleciioun of the
Magiftratis, by the Proveft and Bailleis of the Towne and the Minif-
teris of the paroche, and no others.
Anfw. — It is anfweirit to the Fourt Article,
That the Proveift, Bailleis, and Counfall agrie,
that everie Parochine herefter be governit in
matteris Ecclefiafticall by the proper Seffioun
This Answeir content- of the Parochine: So that in the whole, thair
ethwsfor thair Churche fall be four diftincT; Seffiouns, having thair
govcrnument, hot in the feverall jurifdictiouns within the limitcs of thair
electioun of thair yearlie Parochine allanerlie ; and that ilk feverall
Sessioun We ivill not Seffioun fall confift of the Magiftrates, Minifters,
that anie meddle saveing Elders, and Deaconis of the fame Parochine;
the Magistrattis of the and that the faid Elders and Deaconis fall be
Towne and the Minis- elected yeirlie in every Parochine by the Pro-
teiis of the Paroche. veil, Bailleis, and Counfell of the Burgh, and
Minifters of the faid Parochine, in the moneth
of December, fua that the faid Elders and Dea-
conis may enter to thair offices upone the (iri't
dav of January efter following yeirlie.
5. Art. — So often as it fall happin ony place in that Miniftrie to fall
vovde by deathe, tranflatioun, or ony other way, the faidis Proyeft,
Bailleis, and Counfell fall male choife of fuch a perfone as they think
meete to difcharge the cuire, and pnvfent him to the Ordinarie, con-
1624-5.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 785
forme to the cuftorae of other patrones in the Realme, for efchewino-
the confufioun and trouble of populare elecliouns.
Anfw. — It is anfweirit to the Fyft Article,
That thay aggrie and confent that when anie
laice or plaices, ane or mae, of the Miniftrie of
Edinburgh fall fall voyde by death, tranflatioun,
or utherwayes whatfomever, that the faid Pro-
veft, Bailleis, and Counfell fall mak choice of
fuch a perfone or perfones as thay think meitt to
chfcharge the cuire, and prefent him or thame to
the Archibifhop of Sanct Androis, conforme to
the cuftome reffavit : And for efchewing of all
confufioun of tumult by popular electioun, that
the Electioun of the faidis Minifteris fall be maid
in all tyme to cum by the Proveift, Bailleis, and
Counfell of the faid Burgh allancrlie ; who fall
We esteeme this Ans- behaldin to nominat and prefent the faidis Minif-
weir sufficient. teris, fwa to be chofen by thame, to the Archi-
bifhop of Sanct Androis, and his fucceflburis, to
be admitted to the faidis vacand plaiceis of the
Miniftrie within the faid Burgh, and to be
authorized with his collatioun and admiflloun
thairupone in dew forme : And if the faidis per-
fonis elected, chofen, and prefented, as faid is,
or anie of thame, fall be fund by the faid Archi-
bifhop of Sanct Androis, or his fucceffouris,
unmeitt and unqualified for the faidis plaiceis of
the Miniftrie within the faid Burgh, the faidis
Proveift, Bailleis, and Counfall fall be haldin to
elect, nominat, and prefent otheris in thair plaice,
within the fpaice and tyme prefcryved be the
lawis, and obferved in otheris lyke patronages
be the cuftome and practique of the kingdome.
6. Art. — And notwithstanding the diftributioun afoirfaid, the Proveft,
Bailleis, and Counfaill of the Towne moft everie Sonday refort ordinarlie
786 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1624-5.
to the Heigh Church, at leaft in the forenoone, the reft of tliair famihes
(thair neeeffarie attendants onlie excepted) being aftricled to kcepc thair
proper paroche churcheis as otheris of the people.
Answ. — It is anfweirit to the Sext, That thav
agric, that notwithstanding the diftributioun
forefaid, the Proveift, Bailleis, and Counfell of
the Quid Towne, fall euery Sunday refort ordi-
And this likewayes. narilie to the Heigh Church, at leaft in the
forenoone, the reft of thair families (thair
neceffar attendants onhe excepted) being af-
tridted to keip thair proper Paroche Churcheis,
as otheris of the people.
". Art. — The pervers cuftome praclifed in that Towne of trying and
cenfuring the Miniftrie by the people falbe in all tyme comeing dif-
charged, feeing they ar iubiect as otheris Minifteris to the tryall of
thair Ordinarie in the Synodes and other lawfull AfTemblies of the
Churche.
Anfw. — It is anfweirit to the Sevint, That the
The eonelusioun of this public!; conventiounes upon the Tyfday preced-
ed HsimV safe/fes the At- ing the celebratioun of the Holie Communioun,
tide, hot the narrative, if was introduced in this Churche with the Refor-
itbe treic, sheweth what a matioun of the Gofpell, and was ordanit to be
Reformatioun that was keiped, both by the Superintendanta of the
and how trill advised; Churche and Minifters of the fame, and wherin
yet We beleive not that the doclrines, lives, and converfatiouns of thair
either Superintendent or Minifters wer tryit;1 lyikas the fame hes bein
Minister wold ever sub- in continual] obfervance thefe thriefcore yeans ;
ieci thair doctrine to the but fince it is his Maiefteis pleafure, thay ar
tn/(dl qf the popular content to difcharge the fame conventiounes in
[wtce]: this is ane Ana- all tyme comeing.
baptisticaU phrenesie.
8. Art. — Laitlie, His Maieftie requireth ane A&, to be maid by the
1 " Bothe by the Superintendentis of the Churche and Ministeria of the same, and tliair
Mlnisterie thairin removed, thair doctrine, lyffe, and conversatioan tryed; like as, &c."
(Iteg. Seer. Sig.)
1624-5.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS.
787
Magiftratis and Counfall of the Towne aganis all fuche as doe not com-
municat with tliair Minifteris in thair awne paroche churche, or fall goe
ont of the Towne to other communionis without the licence and tefti-
monie of tliair awne Minifteris ; and this A6t to contene fome fevere
penaltie to he inflicted vpoun the tranfgreffouris.
Anfw. — It is anfweirit to the Laft, That the
Proveift, Bailleis, and Counfall ar content,
and confentis and promittis to cans an Act be
maid in thair Counfall buikis againft fuch as
doe not communicat in thair awne Parochines,
or fall goe out of the Towne to other commu-
nionis without the licence and teftimonie of thair
Minifteris ; containing ane penaltie of twentie
pundis for everie fault, to be uplifted be the
Treafurer of the Goode Towne, to be applyed
to the commoun workes of the fame.
Lett this be added, that
the testimonie of the
Ministeris must be in
writeing, and gevin by
the Ministeris of the
Paroche, or at the least
by one of thame; and for
the penalties, We will
haif thame employed ad
pios usus, and not to the
commoun workes of the
Towne.
FoLLOWIS THE LlBEKTIES AND PkIVILEDGEIS DESYKIT TO BE RATIFIED.
The thingis above re-
quired being performed,
these sail ressave a
reasonable Answeir. In
the meanetyme, for the
present distribution?^
We think it fitte that
the Ministeris who now
serue be appoyntit to
thair severall Parocheis
by the advise of the Ma-
gistrattis of the Towne,
and with thair awne
consent.
Imprimis, Seing it has pleafed his Maieftie to tye
the eledioun of the Minifteris to the vaikand
Churcheis within this Burgh to the Proveft,
Bailleis, and Counfell of the fame, excluding
all Popular Electioun, that when ony place of
the Miniftrie within the fame vaikis thay fall
haif power and libertie to lite ane tua or thrie
Minifteris out of ony Paroche or Parochines of
Scotland, to burgh or land, who fall be haldin
to repair to the faid Burgh, there to mak ane
Sermone or tua, in what churcheis it fall pleas
the Proveft, Bailleis, and Counfell to appoint
thame ; and in caice, etc.
788 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [16:
D.—TIIE ARCHBISHOP OF ST ANDUKWS TO HIS MAJESTY KIM.
CHARLES.
Most Sacred and Gratious Soveraigne,
May it pleafe your Majefty : The Town of Edinburgh hath by
Act of their Counfell condifcended vnto the Articles proponed by your
Maieflies Father of moft bleffed memory, and renued to them by your
Maiefties felfe. And for the petitions they made concerning their
Churches, which your Majeftie differred to anfwere before the Articles
proponed, to them were agreed vnto, I haue compofed the matter be-
tween their Minifters and them, as your Majeftie will perceiue by their
fubferiptions. Both thefe require your Majefties ratification, which mult
be done by Act of the Lords of Privie Councell, to which effe6t your
Majeftie would be gratioully plcafcd to write a letter to the faids Lords,
and another to the Town, for perfecting the things whervnto they haue
condifcended. I truft the good fuccefle of this worke, which was a
worke moft difficill to be broght about, doeth prognosticat a good event
to all your Majefties royall purpofes, intended both for this Church and
for the Republic!;. The reft I remit to my Lord Bifhop of Rone ' his
relation, of whome we are all allured your Majeftie will haue a fpeciaU
care that his charges in attendance there doe not vndoe his eftate,
which is by diverfe occafions already much hurt, and fpecially by his
forward nolle in the fervices of your Maiefties Father, for which he fuf-
taineth as yet the hatred of many great ones in this kingdome. So
with my humble prayers to Almighty God for your Majefties long and
profperous reigne, I humbly take my leave.
Your Majefties moft humble and obedient fervand,
Sanctandrews, 2 October 1625. Sanctandrews.
To his most Sacred Majefty.
1 Mi- Patrick Lindesay, afterwards Archbishop of <ilacLr<>« .
1625.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 789
DI.— ACTS OF THE PRIVY COUNCIL, AND LETTER FROM KING CHARLES
TO THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL.
(1.) Apud Edinburgh, primo die mensis Novembris 1625.
Sederunt —
Geo. Cancell.
Linlithgow.
Thesaukaih.
Perth.
ST Androis.
Wigtoun.
Mortoun.
Roxburgh.
Murray.
Bugcleugh.
Wyntoun.
Melros.
Ratificatioun of some Articles concerning the Burgh of Edinburgh.
The whilk day, in prefence of the Lordis of Secreitt Counfell,
compeirit peribnallie Johnne ArchibHhop of St Androis, and prefentit
and exhibite to the faidis Lordis the miffive letter vnderwrittin, figned
by the Kingis moll excellent Maieftie, and dire6lit vnto the faidis
Lordis, containing his Maieiteis pleafivre and dire&ioun that the Articles
and Petitionis following, whilkis wer likewayis prefentit and exhibite be
the faid Archibifhop, and concernis the fatling of the peace and quiet-
nes of the Burgh of Edinburgh, might be ratified and approvin, and
ane Act of Counfell maid thairvpon : Whilk Miffive, with the Articles
and Petitionis foirfaidis, being red, hard, and confidderit be the faidis
Lordis, and thay being weele advyfit with the fame, and finding his
Maiefties will and pleafure toucheing the Ratificatioun of the faidis
Articles to be Royall and iuft, and to tende to the weele of the faid
Burgh, and fatling of peace and quietnes within the fame, Tbairfore the
faidis Lordis, following his Maieileis will and fpeciall command and
dire6lioun in this matter, hes ratifiet and approvin, and by the tennour
heirof ratifies and approves the Articles and Petitionis foirfaid, and
euerie one of thame, in all and findrie poyntes, claufes, articles, and con-
ditions contenit thairintill, and efter the. forme and tennour of the fame
in all pyointis. And thay haif interponit and interponis tbair authorise
790 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1025.
thairto ; and ordanis the fame to be infert and regiftrat in the Bookes of
Secreit Counfell, thairin to reman c, udfuturam rei memoriam.
( )!' the whilkis Articles and Pctitionis the tennour followis:1
Followis his Maiesteis Missive Letter for Warrand of the
Hatificatioun aboue written.
ClIAKLES R.
Right truftie, and richt well beloued Counfellour, richt truftie
and richt well beloned Cofens and Counfellouris, and richt truftie and
weill beloned Counfellouris, We greete you well. Whereas Our late deare
Father, of famous and eternal! memorie, out of his zeale to the advance-
ment of Godis glorie and fpeciall love to the Townc of Edinburgh, did
in his lyftyme vrge thame with certaine Articles concerning the diftri-
butioun of thair Towne in Parocheis, and fome other thingis belonging
to the right ordering of thair Churches, whairunto thay haif now by
Act of thair Counfell, at Oure fpeciall defire condifcendit ; and that tin-
laid Towne haif preferrit to Ws certaine Petitionis, agreed upoun by
thame and thair prefent Minifters, defyreing the fame to be ratified and
approued by Ws : It is Oure fpeciall pleafure, that you caus an Act
It maid and inferted in your Bookes of Privie Counfell bearing ane
A.pprobatioun of the laid Articles and Petitionis, both whicho you fall
caufe infert in your faidis Bookes ad futuram rei memoriam: In whirl te
behalf thefe prefentis, with the Articles and Petitionis fubfervved- by
1 Those Articles and Petitions are accordingly inserted, and occupy about four pages
of the Register. The Articles are much the same with those already given under
No. CCCCXCIX; and therefore not necessary to be here repeated. The Petitions
consist of 11 heads, and are printed in Maitland's History of Edinburgh, p. 276-277.
In the same work will be found the Act of Town Council, dated 28th September 1(j2">,
lion g with the said Articles and Privileges in regard to the Election of Ministers, in the
rreed upon and ratified by the Privy Council.
- The Articles are signed by the Magistrates and Ministers of Edinburgh, as follows: —
Alexander Clerk, Provost, John M'Naught, William Dick, Andro Purvcs, Archibald
Tod, Baillies; Mr Patrick Galloway, Mr Andro Ramsay, Mr William Strutheris, Mr
Thomas Synserff, Mr William Forbes, Mr John Maxwell, Ministers; and Mr Johne Hay
Townc Clerk.
1625.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 791
thame, and heirwith fent to you, fall be your fufficient warrand.
Fare weill.1
Gevin at Sarifburie the 19th of October 1625.
(2.) Apud Edinburgh, Secundo die mensis Novembris 1626.
The whilk day, Thomas Erie of Melros, his Maiefteis Secretarie,
produeit and exhibite before the Lordis of Secreit Counfell ane miffive
letter from the Kingis Maieftie anent the provyding of the Eight Minii-
teris of Edinburgh, everie one of thame with ane hundreth pundis fterling
in ftipend, and a commodious houfe to dwell in ; Whilk letter being
oppinit be the faidis Lordis, and red in thair audience, thay fend for
David Aikinhead, Proveft of Edinburgb, and intimat unto him his
Maiefteis will and pleafure in this matter ; who craved the nixt Counfell
day to gif his Anfweir, to the intent that in the meane tyme he might
be advifit and confultit with the Counfell of the Towne thairanent.
(3.) Apud Halyrudhous, Septimo die Novembris 1626.
I
The whilk day, in prefence of the Lordis of Secreit Counfell,
compeirit perfonalie the Proveft and Baillies of Edinburgh, and declairit
that thay and thair Minifteris had aggreit that the matter recommendit
be his Maieftie, anent the provyding of thair Eight Minifteris with
ftipendis and ludgeing houffes, fould reft, and that no furder fould be
procedit thairin till thay wer forder advyiit thairanent.
1 The above letter to the Privy Council is also inserted in the Town Council Records :
in the latter (see Maitland's History, p. 279) there is likewise preserved a copy of the
King's Letter to the Magistrates of Edinburgh, of the same tenor and date as the above.
ADDITIONAL LETTERS AND NOTES.
5 H
ADDITIONAL LETTERS AND NOTES.
Page 399. CCXLI.f
ACTS OF THE PRIVY COUNCIL OF SCOTLAND.
Apud Edinburgh, Decimo Nouembris 1614.
Sederunt-
B. ST Androis.
B. Glasgw.
Cassillis.
LoTHEANE.
Cranstotjne.
Binning.
President.
PRErre Seale.
Thesaurair Depute.
Justice Clerk.
Clerk of Register.
Aduocat.
Kjlsytthe.
Medop.
Ane Act allowing the Apprehensioun of Mr James Moffet, Preist.
Forsamekle as George Archiebifchop of St Androis, Mr
[Alexander] Gledftanes, Archideane of" St Androis, and the Proveft and
Baillies of the Citie of St Androis, lies laitlie tane and apprehendit
Maiiler James Moffett, ane Jefuite and Meffe preiil, and lies broght
and exhibite him with his Meffe cloathis heir befoir the Lordis of his
Maiefties Preuey Connfaill, by whome he is committit to warde within
the Tolbuithe of Edinburgh, to abyde his tryall and examinatioun as
accordis: Thairfoir the faidis Lordis of Secreit Counfaill ffindis and
deelairis that the perfonis foirfaidis in the taking, apprehending, keeping,
detening, and exhibitioun of the (aid Jefuite, with his Meffe cloathis,
hes done very faithfull, worthie, goode, and acceptable feruice to his
Maieltie and the cuntrey, and authorizeis, allowis, and approveis the
fame in euery poynte and circomeftance thairof, and exoneris the faidis
perfonis of thair dewytie in that behalff be thir prefentis.
m ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1614.
Apud Edinburgh, rj Nouembris 1014.
(ommissiounfor tryeing of the Messe Preistis in Glasgow.
Forfamekle as albeit the reffett of Jefuitis, Seminarie and Meffe
Preiftis, and the faying and heiring of Meffe be verie flraitlie prohihite
and i'orbiddin be the Lawis and Conftitutionis of this Kingdome, nocht-
withftanding it is of trenthe that the reuerend Fader in God, Johnne
Archiebifchop of Glafgw, lies of laite apprehendit within the Citie of
Glafgw ane Jefuite and Meffe preift, calling himfelff Ogiluy, who had
not onlie ane public! and avowit reffett within the Citie of Glafgw
amangis lindrie of the inhabitantis thairof, be whome he wes confortit
and interteynit with all ihowes of lone and kyndnes, as yf he had bene
a lauchfull fubiecl, bot with that diuers of the faidis inhabitantis and
ntheris his Maiefties fubiectis hes, to the grite offence of God, (blander
of his holie Minifterie, and contempt and mifregaird of oure Souerane
Lord and his auctoritie, bene prefent with the Preift at the abhomina-
tioun of the Meffe, and hes hard him fay Meffe, and fome hes confeft
thame felffis to the Preift, and tane the Sacrament of him after the
Popifhe nianer : Of the quhilkis perfonis, [&c]
Apud Edinburgh, xxij Nouembris 1614.
Warrand for persute of Mr James Moffett, Jesuite.
Forfamekle as Mr James Moffett, ane Jefuite and Meffe preift, hes
laitlie come in this countrey, with his Meffe cloathis, and hes bene traf-
fiquing bothe aganis the Eftate and trew Religioun prefentlie profeii
within this Kingdome, hes fayd and hard Meffe, and vtherwayis behauit
him felf in findrie pointis aganis the Lawis of this Kingdome : Thair-
foir the Lordis of Secreit Counfaill ordanis his Maiefties Aduocat to
libel! and forme ane fummondis or dittay aganis the faid Mr James to
be perfewit befoir his Maiefties Juftice, vpoun fuche crymes and accord-
ing to fuche informatioun as he fall reffaue from the reuerend Fader in
God, George Archiebifchop of St Androis, and that his Maiefties faid
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 797
Aduocat infill in the perfute of the faid Preift for the faid crymes, con-
foruie to the Lawis of this Reahne : Whereanent thir preientis falbe
vnto the faid Lord Aduocat ane warrand.
Page 426. CCLXII.f
HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL.
[James R.]
Right truftie and weilbelouit Cofine and Counfellour, and
right truftie and weilbelouit Counfellouris, We greete you weele :
Haueing fufficientlie vnderftoode the qualificationis and fufficiencie of
Patrik Bifchop of Rofs, and his goode inclinatioun to Oure fervice, We
haue thoght goode to promoue him to Our Preuie Counfell in that
Oure Kingdome ; It is thairfoir Oure pleafour that yow minifter vnto
him the Oathe accuftomed in lyk caifes, and admitt him as one of the
ordinair nomber of Oure Preuie Counfellours, to injoy all honnouris,
digniteis, preuilegeis, aud immuniteis, whilk ony vther Oure Counfellour
by vertew of the faid place injoyeth, for doing wherof thefe prefents
falbe vnto you a fufficient warrand. So We bid yow fairweele. At
Newmarkett, the 13 of Marche 1615.1
Page 440. CCLXXI.f
HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL.
[James R.]
Right truftie and weilbelouit Cofine and Counfellour, and
Right truftie and weilbelouit Counfellouris, We greete you weele :
1 At a meeting of Privy Council, held on the penult of March, this letter was pre-
sented, and Patrick Bishop of Ross took the prescribed Oaths, and his seat as a Privy
Councillor. — In the footnote at page 240, it was suggested that the letter No. CXLV.
was intended for this Mr Patrick Lindsay, who was present at the General Assembly in
1610. It appears, however, that Mr George Lindsay was Minister at Roseneath at that
time, and his name as such occurs in the Acta Seer. Concil., 21 Novembris 1610.
798 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1616.
Whereas We ar informit that by ane Act of Parliament maid for vnit-
ing of fome Parrocheis in Annanderdaill, it wes prouidit that the twa
Parrocheis of Daltoun and Moufwall fould be vnited, and the place
whairat the Parrochionaris fould meete fould be the Kirk of Xethir
Daltoun, as a place thoght moft commodious, and whairat it wes
expectit that ane Kirk fould foonneft haif bene biggit : Xeuirtheles fee-
ing it lies othirwayes appeirit, and that thair is now at Moufwall a new
Kirk biggit haueing all commodityis and eafmentis for reffaueing of the
Parrochionaris of thefe Kirkis, We half thoght goode that the Kirk of
Moufwall be heirefter the place for meeting of the Parrochynnaris of
the faidis Parrochjeis: And for that effect, if it falbe neidfull, or falbe
defirit he the Minifter of the Parroehe, or Bifchop of the Diocefe, yow
fall grant letters chargeing the Parrochionaris to meete and conveene at
the laid Kirk of Moufwall euerie Sonday for prayer and preatching and
reffaueing of the Holie Sacramentis as occaiioun offereth, till AY'e in a
Parliament of Oure Eftaitis caus that part of the foirfaid Acl; to be
amendit ; whiche recommending to your fpeciall cair, "VYe bid yow fair-
weele. At Our Mannour of Greenwiche, the 27 of May 1615.
To Oure Right truftie and weilbelouit Coun-
fellour, the Erll of Dunfermling, Oure
Chancellour, and to the remanent Lordis
and otheris of Oure Preuie Counfell in
Oure Kingdome of Scotland.
Page 448. CCLXXVI.f
ACTS OF THE PRIVY COUNCIL OF SCOTLAND.
Apud Edinburgh, xxiij Marty 1615.
Act anent James Steuart of Hierusalame.
The quhilk day, in prefence of the Lordis of Secreit Counfaill, com-
l "iiit perfonallie .lames Steuart, callit of Jerufalame, and aelit and
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 799
oblift him, That he iall depairt and pas furthe of this Kingdome betuix
and the laft day of May nixttocum, and neuir returne agane within the
fame without his Maiefteis licence had and obtenit to that effect, vnder
the pane of deade.
[Apud Edinburgh, xiij die mensis Junij 1615.]
Proelamatioun anent the Prenting of Books beyond Sea.
Forsamekle as it is vnderftand to the Kingis Maieftie and Lordis
of Secreit Counfaill, That diuers Minifteris and otheris fubieclis of
this Kingdome lies of laite tane a courfe to fend fume bookis and
pamphlettis to be prentit beyond the Seas, efpeciallie at Middleburgh,
the fame not being revifed and allowit by thefe whome his Maieftie hes
authorized with that priuiledge, whilk with tyme may breid grite incon-
uenientis bothe to this Eftate and Kirk, yf remeid be not prouidit :
Thairfoir the faidis Lordis ordanis letters to be direct to command,
charge, and inhibite all and findrie his Maiefteis leigeis and fubiectis,
alfueele Minifteris as otheris whatfomeuir, be oppin proclamatioun at the
Mercat Croceis of the heade Burrowis of this realme, and other places
neidfull, That nane of thame prefoome nor tak vpoun hand to fend ony
bookis, wrettingis, or pamphlettis of whatfomeuer fubiect, to be pub-
lifhed and prented beyond the Sea, except the fame haif bene firft
[perufed] and approued by the Archiebifchoppis of San6kndrois and
[Glafgow,] and by His Maiefties Secretarie of Eftate, certifeing thame
that [falbe fund] to contravene and tranfgres this his Maiefteis com-
mandment, that thay falbe accomptit and punifhed as raifaris of
fhifme, feditioun, and [mutinye,] and contravenaris of his Maiefteis
aucloritie, with all rigour, to the example of otheris.
Apud Edinburgh, 20 Julij 1615.
James Stewart his Act.
The quhilk day, in prefence of the Lordis of Secreit Counfaill, com-
peirit perfonalie James Steuart, callit of Jerufalame, and aclit and oblift
800 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1615.
him, That within the fpace of tuentie dayis efter the dait heirof he fall
depairt and pas furthe of his Maiefteis dominionis, and nenir returne
agane within the fame without licence of his Maieftic had and obtenit
to that effect, vnder the pane of deade.
Page 450. CCLXXVII.t
HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL.
[James R.]
Right truftie and weilbelouit Cofine and Counfellour, We greete
vow weele : Haueing had fufficient prooffe of the fufficiencie and quali-
ficatioun of James, now Archiebifchop of Glafgw, to do Ws good fervice
in that Oure Kingdome, We haif thoght goode to promoue him to Oure
Preuie Counfaill thair : And thairfoir it is Oure pleafour that vow
minifter vnto him the Oathe1 accuftomed in the lyke caifes, and admitt
him to enioy all honnouris, digniteis, preuilegeis, and immunityis which
ony uther Oure Preuie Counfellour enioyeth in that reahne, be verteu
of his place in Our faide Preuie Counfell : Whiche not doubting bot
yow will do, as this falbe your fufficient warrant in that behalff, We
bid vow fairweele. At Lulworth, the xiij of Auguft 1615.
To Oure Right truftie, [&c, ut supra.]
Page 457. CCLXXXIV.t
HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL.
[James R.]
Right trufty and right welbeloued Coufen and Counfellour, [and
right trufty] and welbeloued Counfellours, We greete vow Weill :
Whereas Wee haue thoght it expedient, for removing the difienfionis
and reforming the abufes which [haue] burft nirth in the Toun of Brunt-
1 Archbishop Law, on the 2.3d of August, took the accustomed oaths, and was duly
admitted as a member of the Privy Council, iu tonus of this lcttter.
1615.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 801
yland, that Mr Williame Watfoun, [fumtyrae] Minifter, be tranfplanted
(as more fullie Wee haue gevin direclionis to tlie Archbifehope of
Sanclandrois), to the intent that bunynes may [with the greater fa]ci-
litie and better expeditioun be compaffed, Wee thinke it [neceflarie
that the faid] Mr Williame be prefentlie removed oute of the faid Toun ;
[and thairfore have] thoght good to will and require yow to call him
[before yow, and intimat to] him this Oure pleafour, chairgeing and com-
manding him, within fome reafonable fpace and tyme, to remove him-
felft' oute of the faid Toun, and not to approche to the fame, without
Oure fpeciall licence, by the fpace of aught myles : ' As alfo, that ye
inhibit him heirefter to keep or interteyne ony intelligence with thefe
mutineris in any acts concerning thair Toune, and the gouernament of
it, as he will efchew Oure difpleafour, and fhew himfelfe a dewtifull fub-
jecl; in tyme commeing. And heirin expecting your diligence, Wee bid
yow fairweill. At Newmarket, the 27 of Nouember 1615. 2
Page 457. CCLXXXIV.ft
THE FORM OF nOMAGE AND OATH OF ALLEDGIANCE TAKEN BY
THE ARCHBISHOPS OF ST ANDREWS AND GLASGOW.
In the Chappell of Ualirudhous, the xxvj day of Nouember 1615.
In presence of diners of the Nobilitie, Counsaill, Senatouris of
the Colledge of Justice, Baronis, and Gentilmen.
The quhilk day Johnne Archiebifchop of San6tandrois, and
James Archiebifchop of Glafgu, maid and gaif thair Oathe of Alledge-
ance, and maid thair Homage for thair Beneficeis, in the Chappell
of Halyrudhous, immediatelie after the Sermone whilk wes maid be
1 On the Ttli of December 1 G15, Watson was summoned before the Privy Council, and on
the 14th a decreet in terms of the King's letter was pronounced, obliging him to remove
from Burntisland before'the 10th of January. In 161G he became Minister of Markinch.
2 The volume of Privy Council proceedings, 1615 — 1C17, containing this letter, is
imperfect, and is in many places almost illegible ; but the repetition of the King's letter
in the Act itself respecting Watson has supplied the words inserted within brackets.
5 i
802 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1015.
Williamc Bifchop of Galloway, to Alexander Erll of Dunfermelyne, Lord
Heirdi Chanccllour of Scotland, his Maiefteis Commifiionair, fpeciallie
nominal by bis Oommiffioun vnder the Great Scale- fur taking of the
laid Oathc and Homage : Quhilk Commiffioun was publictlie red in
audience of all thefe connenit and being prefent at Sermone for the
t\ me.
The Oathe of Alledgeance and Supremacie of the Prei.attis of
Scotland, and the Forme and Ordour of geying of the Oathe.
The Bischop hneilliny vpoun his knees befuir the Commis-
sionaris knees, sail lay his right hand vpoun the Bible, whilk
salbe then held by another Bischop, lykewayes kneiMing befoir
the Comndssionair, and sail yif the Oathe following : —
I, N., noininat be the Kingis Maieftie, and now confecrat Bifchop of
B., do utterlle teftifie and declair on my confeience, That the Kingis
Maieftie is the onlie Supreame Gouernour of this Realme, and (if all
otheris his Heynes Rcalmes and Dominiounes, alfwel in Spirituall or
Ecclefiafticall thingis or cauffes as Temporall, and that no Forevm
Prince, Perfone, Prelate, State, or Potentat, bathe or aught to haif ony
jurifdictioun, pouer, fuperioritie, preeminence, or authoritie, Ecclefiafti-
call or Spirituall, within this Realme : And thairfoir I do utterlie
renunce and forfaik all foreyne jurifdi&ionis, potters, fuperiorityis, and
aucloriteis, and do promeis, That froine henl'furthe I lull beare faithe
and trcw Alledgeance to the Kingis Maieilie, his Airis and lawfull Suc-
ceffouris, and, to my pouer, fall affift and defend all jurifdiction, preui-
Legeis, preeminenceis, and aucloriteis grantit and belonging to the
Kingis Maieftie, his Airis and Succeffouris, as united and annexit to the
( row ne of this Realme.
Then the Bischop sail bald uji his twa handis togidder, at the Com-
missionaris knees, and the Commissionar with his handis sail
coucr the Bischoppis handis, and the Bischop sail proceeds in
his Oathe as followis : —
And fordcr, I confes to haif and to holde the laid Bifchoprik, with
1616.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 80-3
the haill landis and poffeffionis of the fame, under God, onlie of his
Maieftie and his Crowne Royall of Scotland : And for the faidis poffef-
iionis I do my Homage prefentlie vnto your Lordfhip, his Maiefties fpe-
ciall Commiffionair, appointit in his Maiefties name to reffaue the fame ;
And unto his Maieftie, his Airis and lauchfull Succeffouris, falbe euer
faithful] and trew : So help me God, and be the Holie contentis of this
Booke.
Page 470. CCXCVII.t
HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL.
[James R.]
Richt truftie and welbeloued Cofen and Counfellour, and right
truftie and welbeloued Counfellours, Wee greete yow well : Whereas
Wee haue caufed a littill booke or treatife be publifhit, intituled God
and the King, contening the fowme of the Aithe of Alledgeance ;
wliiche booke Wee haif caufed be imprinted, fauld, and difperfed
through all pairtes of Our Kingdomes and Dominionis of England and
Irland, to be taught in all Schooles of learning, alfweill priuat as pub-
lic!;, wemen as men, both in the Englifhe and Latine tounge, and con-
fequentlie to all youthe whatfoeuer within the aige of xxj yeiris,
quhairby thay may be the better inftrucled in thair dewtie to God and
Alledgeance to Ws : And We being of purpofe and intentioun to tak
the lyk cours within Our Kingdome of Scotland, Oure exprefs will and
pleafour is that the laid Booke be univerfallie taught and learned within
that Our faid Kingdome and Dominionis thairof accordinglie as it is
within Our faidis vther Kingdomes : And becaus that nether the youth,
nether thofe of ryper yeiris, within Our faid Kingdome of Scotland, ar
fo naturallie inclyned nor difpofed to the vfe of reiding as is fitt and
convenient, Oure will and pleafour is lykewayes, that all houfholders
within the faid Kingdome, feuerallie and refpectiuelie, fall haue the
fame book, quhairby the hairtis and myndes bothe of the one and uther
may be the better feafoned and prepared with loyaltie and obedience :
The fole and onlie licence for printing, felling, and difperfing of the
804 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [161G.
whiche Bookes AYee, for diuers good caufes and confiderationis Ws
heirunto moving, do give, grant, and difponc to Oure louit Mr James
Prymrois, during the fpace of tuentie one yeiris, referring alwayes to
your good confiderationis the conditioun, manner, and forme for pro-
fequuting of this Oure grant and licence ; So as Wee may receive
contentment, Oure loving people inftrucbioun, and the faid Mr James
competent benefite for his travellis. Wee bid yow fainvell. At
Newmarket, the 14 of Aprile 1G1G.
Page 470. CCXCVILft
ACTS OF THE PRIVY COUNCIL OF SCOTLAND.
Apud Edinburgh, xxij Maij 1G16.
Warrand anent the Booke intituled " God and the Sing."
The Lordis of Secreit Counfall nominatis and appointis Johne
Archibiihop of St Androis, James Archibiihop of Glaigu, Williame
Bifchop of Galloway, and Alexander Bifhop of Caithnes, or ony tua of
thame, to fight, examine, and confidder the Booke intitulatt God and
the King, and yf the fame be worthie to be teachit and publifhed in
this Kingdome, And that thay report to the faidis Lordis the nixt
Counfall day fchair opinioun and aduaife thairanent; and Ordanis thame,
or ony twa of thame, with his Maiefties Aduocat, and Mr Peter Rollok
in [of] Piltoun, to convene with Mr James Prymrois, who hes his
Maiefties Patent for prenting and Idling of the faid Booke, and to
confer with him anent the forme and maner how he will follow out
that bufl'ynes.
Apud Edinburgh, Sexto Junij 1G16.
The Arehiebishop of Glasgir his Reporte anent the JBooke inti-
tuled " God and the King."
I'm quhilk day, James Archibiihop of Glafgw compeirand perfonallie
1616.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 805
before the Lordis of Secret Counfall, he reported and declared that he,
with Williame Bifhope of Galloway, Sir William Oliphant of Newtoun
his Maiefties Aduocat, Sir Alexander Drmmnond of Medop, and Mr
Peter Rollok of Piltoun, with fome of the Miniftrie of Edinburgh, had
fene and confidderit the Booke intitulate God and the King, and that
they fand the faid Booke was worthie to be teachit in all the Univer-
iities and Schooles of this Kingdome, and that the principall heades
therof fould be drawne up in fome Catechetick Queftionis and Anfueris,
and proponed in publick doctrine be everie Minifter, and that everie
Student in the Univerfities, and euery Scholer in the Schooles of this
Kingdome, fould haue ane of the faidis Bookes, and that no Studentis
in the Univerfities fould be receiued to thair degreis quhill they give
thair Oath of Alledgeance, according to the doctrine proponed in the
faid booke : And that euerie Familie within this Kingdome, quhair
thair is ony that can reid, fall haue one of tbir bookis ; and that the
Maifteris and Regentis of the Colledges and Schooles within this King-
dome falbe anfuerable for thair Schollaris and Studentis, that euerie ane
of thame fall haif ane of the faidis bookis ; and that the Minifter of
euerie Paroche fall try the diflbbeyaris within the bondis of his Paroche
to buy the faid Booke, and fall report thair names to the Bifchope of
the Diocie ; who fall fignifie the fame to the Lordis of Preuie Counfall,
that ordour may be tane with thame accordinglie, and that Proclama-
tioun falbe direct to this effect in forme as efteiris.1
Page 470. CCXCVIII.t
HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE CHANCELLOR, RECTOR, AND
PROFESSORS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST ANDREWS.
James R.
Righte Reverende Father in God, righte truftie and welbeloved
Counfellour, and truftie and welbeloved, We greete you well : Whereas
1 A long " Proclamatioun Anent the booko intituled God and the King," Apud Edin-
burgh, xiij Junij 1616, is inserted in the Privy Council Register of that date.
806 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1616.
We ar crediblie enfonned of divers thingis requiring Reformatioune, and
divers good Orders requifite to be cfiaHifhed among you. AVe (out of
Our Royall zeale to God's glorie, love of the florilhing eftate of the
Churche and Commonwealthe, affectioune to the advauncemente of
Learning, and can' of the benefite of that Place, as the Principal] foun-
tayne of Religione and good Letters in that Our native Kingdome), have
thocht good hereby to teftific unto you that We ar well pleafed that ye
ihoulde hereafter enjoy all fuch priviledges, immunityes, and favors, and
in as ample maner as formerlie Our predeceflburs have graunted eyther
unto that or to anie of thes florifliing Univerfities of this Kingdome ;
and therefore We require, and by thes prefents authorize you, with all
diligence, to eoncurre to the Reformatioune of all fuche thingis, and
eftablifhing of fuch good Orders as may tend to your perpetuall good,
according to the Direcliouns which We have given in charge to Our
truftie fervant and Chaplaine, Doclour Young, Deane of Winchafter,
whome We have exprefllie fente thether, that he may fie thingis the
better done, and upone his returne relate unto Us the happie evente
whiche We expecte. Given at Our Mannour of Greenewiche, the 10"'
day of June 1616. '
To the righte reverende Father in God, Our
righte trufiie and welbeloved Counfellour,
the Archebyflioppe of St Andrewes, Chan-
cellour, and to the Reclor, Maifters, and
Regents of the laid Univcrfitie.
[Articuli quidam sequentes oblati sunt Aca-
demiie a Doctore Joanne Junio, qui rogavit, ut
ab Academia reciperenturj et ut iis suhscribe-
rent Primarii Collegiorum Magistri : quod fa-
cusarunt D. Jacobus Martinus et D.
Bruaius nisi prius consulta Academia.]
1 The above letter ia inserted, along with the accompanving Articles, in the Universitj
Elecordsi For the transcripts the Editor is indebted to bis Reverend and learned friend
the Principal of the University of Edinburgh : they form part of his extensive collections
1616.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIKS. 807
Page 470. CCXCVIILft
THE AKTICLES SET DOWN BY HIS MAJESTY CONCERNING THE
UNIVERSITY OF ST ANDREWS.
Articles sette doune by his Majestic concerning the Universitie of
St Andrewes.
James R.
First, We are pleafed that the auncient Chartour of that Univer-
fitie be renewed, confirmed, and enlarged, or (if no fuch Chartour be) to
graunte a new one, whereby that Place may enjoy all priviledges and
favours whiche Our predeceflburs, or anie of them, have graunted to anie
other of their nonfiling Univerfities.
2. That they fall have power to conferre Degrees upon learned men
in all artes and fciences, but fpeciallie on fuch as ftuddie in Divinitie.
3. That none be admitted unto the Degree eyther of Batchellour or
Doctour in Divinitie but fuch as Ml give triall of ther fufficiencie by ther
preiching both in Engliihe and Latine, and anfwering and difputing in
Divinitie in the face of the Univerfitie, and by a publike Grace lhalbe
allowed by them both for their life and learning.
4. That all fuch as lhalbe fo approved and allowed, lhalbe by the
Archbyfhope of St Andrewes appoynted, within the fpace of one year
therafter, to preache one Sermone at Edinburghe before the Lordes,
either in St Giles churche or in the Chappel Royall, in a hoode agre-
ing to their degree, that fo they may be knowen to be men fitte for the
prime places of the Churche ; for it is Our fpeciall pleafour that here-
after none be preferred to eminent places in the Churche but fuch as
paffe their degrees in the Univerfitie, ane Batchellour in Divinitie at the
lealle ; and that none be admitted to the facred order of Bifchopes but
fuch as fhalbe firft Do6lors.
regarding the University of St Andrews which were communicated to the late Rev. Dr
M'Crie, while engaged in preparing his Life of Andrew Melville. It is much to be regretted
that Principal Lee himself should have never employed such materials to illustrate the
Annals of that University, and the Literary History of Scotland.
808 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1616.
5. That the fame ceremonies and rites be ufed in the creatioune of
Do&ours whiche ar ufed in the Univerfities of Cambridge, Oxenforde,
and otlier privileged places in forreyne nationis, or at leafte that ther be
as gryte conformitie unto them as the eflate of the Countrie may bearc.
l!. That ther be ane intermiffioune of all lectures in Schooles, at the
folemne tymes of Chriftenmas, Eafter, Afcenfion-dav. and Whitfonday ;
that thofe dayes whiche the evening preceiding be celebrated with
prayers and fermons agreable to the tymes, and that thefe fermons be
preached by the Maifters and Students of the New Colledge.
7. That the fyft of November be kepte folemnlie, in the fornone, to
be preached by one of the Profeffours in Divinitie, or Maifters of Col-
ledges, fitting the day ; and in the afternoone, by fome of the Regents or
their Schollers, ther be had a Latine oratione in laudem Regis, with
folemne thankefgiving for all hys deliveries at otber tymes, the fyft of
Auguft then efpeciallie at that tyme to be remembered, becaufe the
Oniverfitie is difperfed.
8. That the fame prayers be daylie faid for the King, Queen, and
their Royal progenie, in all the Colledges throughout the Kingdome
whiche arc ufed in the Churche of Englande, together with the fame
Confeflione in the beginning of prayer, and that the Pfalmcs of David
lie red monethlie.
!t. That everie year, twifc, there be a folemne Thankefgiving unto
Grod for ther Founders and Benefactors, to wit, at the times of the incit-
ing and parting of the Univerfitie.
10. That fome longer tyme may be agreed upon befor they paffe
Maifters of Arte, if the ftate of their Colledges may bearc it.
11. That the Maifters of Colledges, Regents, and all Maifters of Arte.
have a voice in palling of all Univerfitie bufines, as for Degrees, and
I'ueh like, and that they meit folemnlie in their habites convenient to
tin' Degree, for the hearing of all i'ueh Sermons and Acls as ar to he
doonc pro G rutin.
L2. That the Librarie be finilhed and furnilhed with all pofilble
fpeede, Ne sint Magistri sine Libris.
13. That mcanes lie ufed to draw Schollcris to the New Colledge, for
the liuddie of Divinitie: and for there niantincncc ther he two at leait
1616.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 809
to be enterteyned by everie Diocefe1 throughout the Kingdorae, by the
helpe of the Byfhoppes, Noble and Gentlemen, with the Miniflers of
the faid Diocefes, Ut non sint Libri sine Magistris.
As for Gentlemen and others quho applye not themfelvis to the
Minifterie after they haf pafl their courfe in Philofophie, We wold have
them to repayre to Edinburgh, quhair We Maid haf a Eeader at leaft
eftablifhed to teache the Lawis, that fo Students might atteyne both to
the theorie and pradtife of the fame.
Page 470. CCXCVIII.fl:
ACT OF THE PEIVY COUNCIL OF SCOTLAND, AND HIS MAJESTYS
LETTER TO THE COUNCIL.
Apud Edinburgh, xviij July 1616.
Sederunt —
Chancellair. President. Kilsythe.
B. ST Androis. Thesaurair Depute. Medop.
B. Glasgw. Preuie Seale. Sir James Skeene.
B. Ross. Justice Clerk. Sir Peter Young.
Glencarnie. Advocat. Me Peter Rollok.
Proclamatioun of the Generall Assemblie.
Forsamekxe as the Prelatis and Reverend Fatheris of the Kirk
forfeeing that thair is ane grit decay in Religioun, and a grouth and
increafe of Poperie within this Kingdome, and that the fame is lyke to
produce mony dangerous efte6tis aganis the Eftaite bothe in Kirk and
Policie : And the faidis Prelatis haueing gravelie aduifit vpoun the beft
and reddiefl meanis for preventing and fuppreffing this grouth of
Poperie, and for reformeing of the difordours and abufeis flowing thair-
fra, Thay haif found that nothing is more expedient for effectuating of
this goode worke than a Nationall Affemblie and meiting of the haill
1 " This explains the term Alumni Dioceseos Andreap., Dunkeld., &c, in Howie's List
of Students of Theology." — (MS. note by Principal Lee.)
5 K
810 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [161G.
Kirk; And by thai r petitions prefented vnto His Maieftie thay hano
humblie crauit Lis licence for halding of the laid Affemblie: Lykeas
his Maieftie allowing of thair good aduife and opinionn in this pointe,
and being willing to bald hand vnto thame in all and enerie thing whilk
may procure the goode of the Kirke, His Maieftie lies moft willinglie
and freelie grantit, and lies gevin his confent, licence, permiffioun, and
allowance for halding of the faid Affemblie, ordaining the fame to bald
at the Burgh of Aberdeene, and to begin, God willing, upoun the xiij
day of Auguft now approtcheing, in this inftant yeir of God, Im vjc and
Sextene yeiris ; Thairfore the Lordis of Secreit Counfall ordanis letters
to be direct for publicatioun thairof be oppin proclamatioun at the
Mercat Croceis of the head Burrowis of this Kingdome, and vtheris
placeis needfull, wherethrow nane pretend ignorance of the fame : And
to wairne all Archibilhoppis, Bifhoppis, Commiilionaris for the Kirkis,
and vtheris haueing voiceis in that Aft'emblie, that thay repair in dew
and lawfull tyme to the faid Burgh of Aberdeene, aganis the faid xiij
day of Auguft nixt, and affift the laid Affemblie and meeting with thair
prefence and voiceis, and do and performe that whilk to thair chairge in
fuch caifes apperteynis, as thay will anfwer upoun the contrair at thair
heicheft charge and perrell.
His Afaif stirs missire letter for the Warrant of the Act abouc written.
[James R.]
Richt truftie and riclit welbeloued Cofen and Counfellour, and right
trui'tie and welbeloued Counfellours, Wee grcete yow Weill: Whereas
Wee haif gevin licence to the Clergie and vther Deputes of the Church
to meete at Aberdeene the xiij of Auguft nixt to cum, there to treate of
fnch thinges as falbe thoght requifite to hinder the encreas of Poperic in
thai Our Kingdome, and procure anc Vniformitie in Religioun amongft
Our fubicctis, It is Our pleafour that yee caufe mak Proclamatioun of
the faid meeting, to lie at the tyme and place aboue faid, at all the
Mercat Croceis accuftomed in the lvke caifes; Whiche knawing that
yee will caufe be reddilie performed. Wee bid yow fairwell. At Wen-
fted, the xij of Julij 1G1G.
1816.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 811
Page 494. CCCXILf
HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL.
James R.
Righte truftie and righte welbeloued Cofen and Counfellour,
and right truftie and welbeloued Counfellours, We greete yow well :
Whereas it is neeeffarie, for the better eftabliihing of true Religion, that
Childrene be Cateehifed and educated in the knowledge of the groundes
thereof frorne their tender yeares ; and whereas manie parentes are fo
negligent and careles in that pointe, as their childrene, being eyther
altogether ignorant or careleflie inftructed, are, when they come to age,
eafdie peruerted and drawen to Poperie: It is therefor Oure pleafour
that yee caufe make and publifhe an Acte commaunding all parentes
to vfe the ordinarie meanes of inftrucling thair young childrene, to
prsefente them to their ordinarie Paftour at all ufuall times of Catechi-
fing and examination, and to bring them to the Byfhoppe of the Diajcefe
at euerie Vifitation, to be tried and confirmed by him; with certifica-
tion, that fuch parentes as iliall negledte thefe meanes fhall pay,
according to their qualitie, a pecuniall fumme, withoute anie remiffion :
And this recommending to your fpeciall care, Wee bid yow farewell.
At Oure Pallace of Whitehalle, the feconde of Nouember 1616.
To Our righte truftie, [&c, ut supra.']
Page 494. CCCXII.ff
HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE LORD CHANCELLOR.
James R.
Righte truftie and righte welbeloued Cofen and Counfellour, Wee
greete yow well : Whereas oute of Our truft repofed upon James Arche-
byfhoppe of Glafcow, Sir George Hay, Clerke of Our Regifter, and Sir
William Olyphant, Our Aduocate, Wee wer pleafed to praferre them to
be of Our Priuie Counfell, and hauing had fufficient proofe of their qua-
812 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1616.
lification and good inclination to Our feruice, fo as "Woo haue t'ounde
thorn wortliic of anie employment whatfoeuer : Wee are further pleafed
to ronftitute them Commiffioncrs, to haue place and -\oyce with
remanent Commiffioncrs formerUe appointed for managing Our Rentes
in that Kingdome; And therefor haue thoughte goode, by thefe prae-
fentes, to require yow to calle and admitte them to the aforefaid place :
In which behalfe, as thefe pnefentes flialbe vnto yow a fufficient war-
rant, l'o Wee bid yow farewell. At Newmarket, the 9th of December
1616.
To Our righte truftie and righte welbcloued
Cofen and Counfellour, the Earle of Dum-
iennoline, Our Chancellour of Our King-
dome of Scotland.
Pare 494. CCCXII.ftt
ACT OF THE PRIVY COUNCIL OF SCOTLAND.
Ajnul Edinburgh, decimo die mensis Decembris. Anno Domini
Millesimo Sexcentesimo decimo sexto.
Forsamekle as the Kingis Maieftie haueing a fpeciall care and
regairde that the trew Religioun be advancit and eftablilhit in all the
partes of this Kingdome, and that all his Maiefties fubicets, efpeciallie
the youthes, be exercifed and trayned vp in civilitie, godlines, knaw-
ledge, and learning, that the vulgar EnrdHh Touno-e bo univorfalio
plantit, and the I ri ill Language, quhilk is one of the cheife cauffis of the
continowancc of barbaritie and incivilitie among the Inhabitants of the
Ylles and Hielands, may be abolilhed and removit : And whereas there
is no meane more powerful! to further this his Majefties princelie
regaird and purpofe than the eftablifhing of Schooles in the particular
parifhes of this Kingdome, where the youth may ho taught at the lea ft
to write and reid, and being catechiibd and initrueted in the groundes
of Religion : Thairfore the Kings Maieftie, with advyce of the Lords of
his Secreit Oounfell, lies thought it neceffar and expedient, that in everie
pariffa of this Kingdome where convenient meanes may be had for
1616.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIES. 813
enterteaning a Scoole, That a Scoole falbe eftabliihed, and a fitt perlbn
appoynted to teaclie the fame, upon the expenffes of the Parifhoneris
according to the qualitie and quantitie of the Parifh, at the fioht and
be the advyce of the Bifhop of the Diocie, at his Yihtation ; Command-
ing heirby all the Bilhops within this Kingdome that they and everie
one of thame within thair feverall Diocies deale and travell with the
Pariihonars of the particular parifhes within thair faids Diocies, to con-
defcend and agrie vpon fome certane folide and fure courfe, how and by
what meanes the laid Scoole may be enterteanied : And if anie difficultie
fell arryfe among thame concerning this mater, that the laid Bilhop
reporte the fame to the faids Lords, to the effect they may take fuch
ordour heiranent as thay fall thinke expedient : And that letters be
direcl; to mak publicatioun heirof, wherethrow nane pretend ignorance
of the fame.
Extractum de libris Actorum Secreti Consilii S. D. N. Regis,
per me Jacobum Prymerose, Clericum ejusdem, sub meis skjno
et subscriptione manualibus.
Ja. Prymrois.1
Page 501. CCCXVI.f
HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL.
James R.
Eighte truftie and right welbelouit Cofen and Counfellour, and
righte truftie and welbeloued Counfellours, Wee greete yow well : The
Earle of Errolle hauing now giuen fatiffaction to the Fathers of the
Churche there concerning maters of Religion, there now refteth no
1 A letter in the same terras with this Act was addressed by Charles the First to the
Archbishops and Bishops respecting English schools, instructing Children in religion,
and removing " of the Irish language and barbaritie out of the Heigh lands," (on the 25th
August 1G25) : See the Maitland Miscellany, vol. ii. pp. 1-50, Glasgow, 18-10, for a series
of interesting Extracts relating to the Establishing and Maintaining of Schools in Scot-
land, from 1496 to 1696, collected by the late Mr Alexander Macdonald. — The above Act
of Council was ratified by an Act of Parliament, in June 1633, with the addition of
authorizing an Assessment to be made for the maintenance of the Schools.
814 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1617.
further caufe to reftraync him in any forte of his naturalle libertie : It
is therefor Our pleafour, that with all conuenient expedition yee in
Our name releene him of all former reftrainte, and graunte vnto him
whatfocuer libertie Our befte fubiecles enjoy. And herein nothing
doubting of your readie willingnes to obey this Our commande, Wee
bid yow farewelle. G-iuen at Afke, the 10th of Aprile 1617.
To Oure right truftie, [&c, ut supra.]
Page 504. CCCXVILf
ACTS OF THE PRIVY COUNCIL OF SCOTLAND.
Apud Halirudhous, xviij May 1617.
PRESENTE REGE.
The, Erll of Buckinghame admittit on Counsaill.
The Kingis Maieftie remembering the goode affeclioun borne by
George Erll of Buckinghame to this Kingdome, and inhabitants of the
fame, and the mony goode officeis done be him in favouris of diucrs
perfonis of this natioun attending his Maiefteis Courte ; and to the effecx
he may be the better encourageit to continew his affeciioun to this
countrcy Thairfoir His Maieftie, with aduife of the Lordis of his
Secreit Counfaill, reffauit and admittit the faid George Erll of Bucking-
bame to be one of the ordinair nomber of his Maiefteis Preuie Counfell
of this Kingdome, and to injoy all honnouris, digniteis, preuiledgeis,
and prerogatiues proper and dew to the faid place : Lyke as, the faid
Krll being perfonalie prefent, and acknowledgeing with all dew thanks
his Maiefteis gratious fauour lhowne vnto him, by preferring and
advanceing of him to this heigh place of honnour and dignitie, be with
all dew reuerence, vpoun his knees, his hand lyand upoun the holic
l^vangell, maid and gaif his folemc Oathe of Alledgeance, and the Oatbc
of a Preuie Counfallour.
1617.]
TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS.
815
Apud Halirudhous, Peiudtimo Junij 161"
Sederunt —
REX.
Chancellair. Montrois.
Lennox. Wyntotjn.
Mar, Tiies*. Lotheane.
Hamiltoun. Tullibardine.
Huntlie. Roxburgh.
B. ST Androis. Binning.
B. Abirdene. Burley.
B. Ross. Carnegt.
Argyll. L. Gordoun.
Preole Seale.
Clerk of Regr.
Aduocat.
KlLSAYTHE.
B.ldiious.
Medhop.
corriehill.
MR Peter Rollok.
Bruntyland.
Sir Andro Ker.
Sir William Alexander.
The Erllis of Arrundaill and Pembroigh, Lord Suche, and Sir
Thomas Laik, admittit on Counsaill.
The quhilk day, The Kingis Maieftie, with aduife of the Lordis of his
Secreit Counfaill, reffauit and admittit [Thomas] Erll of Arrundaill,
[William] Erll of Pembroigh, Eduard Lord Suche, and Sir Thomas
Laik knight, to be of the ordinair nomber of his Maiefteis Preuie
Counfaill of this Kingdome, and to brouke all honnouris, digniteis, pre-
uiledgeis, and prerogatiues proper and dew to the laid place : Lyke as
the faidis Erllis of Arrundaill and Pembroigh, the Lord Sutche, and
Sir Thomas Laik, being perfonalie prefent, and acknowledging with all
dew thankis his Maiefteis gratious fauour fhowne vnto. thame by pre-
ferring of thame to this place of honnour and dignitie, thay with all
dew reuerence, vpoun thair kneeis, thair handis lyand upoun the holie
Evangell, maid and gaif thair folemne Oathe of Alledgeance, and the
Oathe of a Preuie Counfallour.
Apud Hahjruidhous, Vltimo Junij 1617.
Oath gevin be the Commissionaris anent the Plantatioun of Kirkis.
The quhilk day, in prefence of the Kingis Maieftie, James Marques
of Hamiltoun, James Erll of Abircorne, Williame Erll of Tullibairdin,
Eobert Erll of Roxburgh, Johnne Vicount of Lauderdaill, Thomas
816 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1617.
Lord oi' Binning, Dauid Lord Carnegy, James Lord of Balmerinoch,
Sir Willianie Douglas of Drumlangrig, Sir [James] Haliburtoun of
Pitcur, Sir Johnne Hamiltoun of Lettrik, Sir Johnne Vaufs of Barn-
barraugh, Sir Thomas Gordoun of Cluny, George Afflek of Balmanno,
[Alexander] Strauchane of Thornetoun, Sir Robert Steuart of Shil-
linglaw, James Arnott burges of Edinburgh, Mr Alexander Wedder-
burne clerk of Dundie, Sir Thomas Menyees proueft of Abirdene, and
Johnne Mathiefon clerk of Carraill, And gaif thair grite and folemne
Oathe, That thai fall cairfullie and dewtifullie execute the Commifiioun
grantit to thame for Plantatioun of the Kirkes, and that thay fall
keepe the dvetis to be appointit to that effect.
Apud Edinburgh, Primo July liilT-
The Bischop of Elie admittit. in Counsell.
The quhilk day, the Lordis of Secreit Counfaill, according to ane
warrand and directioun in write, figned by the Kingis Majeftie, and
profentit this day vnto thame, reffauit and admittit Lancellott Bifcho]»
of Elie to be one of the ordinair nomber of his Majefteis Preuie Coun-
fell of this Kingdome, and to brouke all honnouris, digniteis, preui-
ledgeis, and iinmuniteis proper and dew to the faid place : Lyke as, [the
laid] Lancclott being perfonalie prefent, and acknowledgeing [with
humble] thankes Lis Majefteis gratious fauour ihewn vnto him by pre-
ferring and advanceing of him to this heigh place of honnour and dig-
nitie, he with all dew reuerence, vpoun his kneeis, his hande lyand
v])oun the holie Evangell, maid and gaif his folemne Oathe of Alledge-
ance, and the Oathe of a Preuie Couni'ellour.
His Majesteis 77iissiue letter for Warrand of the Act aboue written.
[James R. ]
Right trailt Cofines and Counfellouris, We greete yow weelc :
Whereas We think it meete and expedient, for diners goode confidera-
tionis moueing Is, to [prefer the Reuerend Father in God, Lancellott
1617.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 817
Bifchop] of Elie,1 to be one of Oure Preuie Counfell of [this Oure
ancient Kingdome : Thairfore it] is Oure will that yow reflaue and
admitt him to be one of the ordinarie nomber of Oure faid Counfell,
and miniiter vnto him the Oathe accuftomat in the lyke caiffes : Where-
anent thefe prefents falbe your warrand. At Halyruidhoufe, the penult
day of Junij 1G17.
Page 543. CCCXXXV.f
HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE LOEDS OF PEIYY COUNCIL.
James R.
Righte truftie and right welbeloued Cofen and Counfellour,
and right truftie and welbeloued Counfellours, Wee greete yow well :
Whereas Wee wer pleafed not long agoe to figne in favours of Gilbert
Dick, Bookefeller and Burges of Edinburgh, a gift of the fole printing
and felling of the Catechifmes appointed by the Aflemblie laft keipt at
Abberdene, and authorized by Vs to be vfed and teached by the
Minifters and other Catechifers and Schoolemaifters of that Our King-
dome ; whiche being prefented lb figned, to be paft by yow in Counfell
there, was at that time refined, becaufe of a Charge therein to all men
to buy the fame, whereupoun the faid Gilbert hailing reformed the faid
hgnatour, and omitted the faid Charge forth of the fame, Wee haue
bene pleafed of new to i'ett Oure hand therto ; And therefore it is
Oure pleafour that whenibeuer it lhalbe prefented to yow, yee giue way
therto, and fuffer the fame to paffe at Oure Seales : And forafmuch as
Wee ar crediblie informed that Andro Hairt, Richard Lawfoun, and
Edward Catchkein, Booke fellers in Edinburgh, haue at their owne hand
prefumed to print and fell diuerfe copies of the faid Catechifmes, It is
therefore Oure pleafure that yee call vnto yow the afoirnamed per-
fones, charging them to tell be what licence or authoritie they haue
imprinted the fame, and that yee caufe them exhibite fuch as they
haue imprinted ; whiche when they haue exhibited, yee lhall forthwith
deliuer to the Archbiihope of St Androis, to be revifed by him, and
1 Dr Lancelot Andrews, Bishop of Ely, and formerly of Chichester.
5 L
818 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1618.
thereafter vied and difpofed vpon as Wee fhalbe pleafed to direct him :
Wherein not doubting of your readie care and obedience, Wee bid
yow farewell. Frome Oure Courte at Newmarket, the 9th of Feb-
ruarc 1G18.1
Page 584. CCCLXI.f
HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL.
James R.
Righte truflie and righte welbeloued Oofen and Counfellour, and
righte truflie and welbeloued Counfellours, Wee greete you well : None
of yow is Ignorant that manie yeares ago Wee commanded yow not to
pcrmitte the Earle of Argyle to come oute of that Our Kingdome til
firft he fliould appointe fome man of authoritie and power to be anfwer-
able in his abi'enee for the peace and good order of the inhabitantes of
that parte of Our Kingdome, for which, partlie as Landeflord and part-
lie as Sheriffe and Officer, he fhoulde be anfwerable : And yee Our
Chancellour, and the Earle of Mar Our Treafurer, can remember how
highlie Wee wer offended with the faid Earle at your being with Ys at
Rpylion, for his neglecting of that dewtie at that time, wherby Wee
wer pcrfwaded tliat yee wold be precifelie careful! to fee that important
parte of his dewtie performed by him before his laft coming frome
thenfe ; And fo being void of all fufpicion of that omiflion of his dewtie
and your care, Wee wer eafdie induced to grant to him Our licence to
<ro beyond the feas, the rather becaus he pretended his defire of cure of
fome bodilie infirmitic by the waters of the Spa, to be the onlie caufe of
his craning licence and fhorte cntended abfencc : And albeit yum- dili-
gence of late in preffmg his frendes to vndertake the charge of that
parte of the contrie during his abfencc doeth in fome forte fupplie your
former negledte, yet Wee hauing latelie vnderftood that tince his
1 It may be noticed, that on the 12th of February 1618, the Privy Council gave a
warrant for the payment of i'luOO Scots " to Mr Petir Bruce, Directour of the Ohiver-
sitie of Sanctandrois, fur buying of tymber and uther materially for the ruiff of that
house ordauit to keepe the Libraric of the said Oniveroitie."
1618.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 819
obteyning of Our faid licence he bathe made avowed defection froine
the trew Religion, and gone publiklie to the Maffe, and withall is
not fecretelie reconciled but openlie entered in verie profeffed frend-
lhipp and fufpicious dealing with Our proclamed traytour, Sir James
M°Donnald, and olde M'Ronald : Therefor it is Our fpeciall pleafour
that with all poffible diligence yee by open Proclamation at the Mercatt
Croffe of Edinburgh, and Shore and Peere of Leethe, reuoke, difcharge,
and annulle Oure faid licence granted to the faid Earle to departe oute
of Oure Dominions : And that you caus orderlie charge him, vnder the
paine of treafon, to returne within threefcore dayes warning after the
publication of the faid Charge, into that Our Kingdoine, and there
compeare before yow of Our Priuie Counfalle, the firft lawfull day after
the exfpiration of the faid threefcore dayes, to anfwer for his intercom-
moning with Our faid traytours, M°Donald and McRonald, vnder the
paines aforefaid, with certification that if he fayle, the faid paines of
treafon fhalbe executed againft him : And that yee commande Our
Aduocate to fee all the prtemiffes fo perfectlie directed and performed as
to his office and dewtie apperteyneth : Wherein exfpecting your care
and diligence, with a fpeedie accoinpte of your proceedinges, Wee bid
yow farewell. Giuen at Our Pallace of Whitehall, the feauenth of
ISTouember 1618.
To Our righte truftie, [&c, ut supra.]
Page 592. CCCLXYII.f
ACT OF THE PRIVY COUNCIL OF SCOTLAND.
Apud Edinburgh, Decimo nono January 1619.
Act infauours of the Bishop of Galloway.
The Lordis of Secreit Counfall, Commiffionaris of his Majefteis
rentis, vnderftanding that it is the Kingis Maiefteis expres will, plea-
four, and fpeciall direelioun, that the laft termis payment of the Taxa-
820 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [161'J.
tioun of the Bifchoprik of Galloway, the Priorie of Quhithorne, and
Abbaceyis of Glenluce and Tungland, .... extending to .
. . . as being part of the Taxationn .... granted to his
Majeftie be his Eftattis in the moneth of March 1017, falbe gevin, and
Iridic allowit and difchargit, to the Reuerend Father in God, Williame
Bifchope of Galloway, Deane of his Maiefteis Chapped,1 in full contenta-
tioun and fatiffa&ioun of his houfe raaill, in all tyme cuming dureing
his lyftyme, lieing he cannot be commodioullie ludgeit and eaiit within
his Maiefteis Pallice of Halyrudhous : Thairfoir the faidis Lordis
ordanis and commandis Sir Gedeone Murray of Elibank knycht,
Deputie Thelaurer and Collectour of the faid Taxatioun, to anfuer and
inak payment to the faid Bifchop of Galloway, Deane of his Maiefteis
Chapped, of the faid fuin of £1928, 17s. 8d., as the lait termes pay-
ment of the Taxatioun of the faid Bifchoprik of Galloway, Priorie of
Quhitliorne, and Abbaceyis of Glenluce and Tungland ; Anent the pay-
ment ((uhairof the extract of this prefent A6t, -with the faid Bifchope his
acquittance, vpoun the reflet of the faid l'owme, falbe unto the laid
Sir Gedeone a warrand.
Page 650. CCCCVl.t
HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE ARCHBISHOP OK ST ANDREWS,
Till': LOUD CHANCELLOR, AND THE SECRETARY.
James R.
Right Reuerende Father in God, Righte truftie and welbeloued
Counfellour, and Righte truftie and righte welbeloued Cofens and
Counfellours, Wee greete yow well: Oure fervant, Sir Etoberte Gordon,
vnkle to the Earlc of Sutherlande, hath humblie fhewed vnto Vs that
he hath heretable righte to the lining of the Abbacie of Glenluce; Wee
haue therefor thoughte good by thefe prefentes to require vow to perufe
liis euidentes, and confider of his title to the faid lining, and according
as yee Ihall limit- him to haue righte to aduertife Vs, that Wee may
giue Inch furder order in that mater as Qialbe mofte agreeable to rea-
1 William Cowper, Bishop of Galloway, died in the following month: Sco note, page
•~>',):j. — A few words above, in the Register, an' illegible from tin' effects of damp.
1621.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 821
fon : Farewell. Giuen at Our Pallace of Whitehalle, the 29th of
Aprile 1621.
To the Righte Reuerend Father in God, Our
righte truftie and welbcloued Counfellour,
the Archiebifhoppe of Sancl Andrewes, and
. Oure righte truftie and righte welbeloued
Cofens and Counfellours, the Earle of Dun-
fermeline, Our Chancellour, the Earle of
Melros, Our Principall Secretaire of Our
Kingdome of Scotlande.
Page 668. CCCCXIX.f
A DECLARATION OF MR ROBERT BRUCE TO THE LORDS
OF PRIVY COUNCIL.
My Lords of Secreit Coiinsaill,
Unto your Lordfhips humblie menis and fhawis : 1 your fervi-
tour, Mr Robert Bruce, Minifter, That quhair the laft day when I
wes broght befoir your Lordfhips, I wes commandit and ordaneit be
your Lordfhips to addreffe my felff to the Burgh of Innernes, and thair
to remane, and within four myitis about the fame, dureing his Maiefteis
will and pleafure ; lykeas the tyme for my addreffe thair daylie
approtches, quhairunto, althoght I acknawledge ray felff bundin in con-
fcience befoir God, and in my alledgeance to the Kingis Maieftie my
Soverane, to gif all dew obedyence, as by Godis grace I mynd never to be
difobedyent to his Maieftie or your Lordlhips, in ony of your Lordfhips
direelionis in this kynd ; yitt the indifpofitioun and inhabilitie of my
perfone, conjoyned with my grite aige, forceis me humblie to fchow unto
your Lordfhips how unable I am to undertak and to underlye fuche a
jorney and charge ; for I am become fo feible and waik, and my aigeit
and wearyed perfone is fo far worne and waifted with greif, cair, and
utheris vifitationis quhairwith it lies pleafit the Lord in his mercy e to
822 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1621.
chaiiilb me, that hardlie dow I travell any quhair without haifard of
my lyff; And if it fall pleas God to vifite me with ficknefs, outlier at
[nnernes or he the way, it is not liklie that I fall overcome the fame:
And touching the imputatioun layed upon me, whilk wes the caus of
his Maicfteis offence, and of this hard courfe tane with me, I thank God
I wes frie and innocent thairof, and 1 clearit my felff of the fame in
your Lordlhips prefence, it beino' ;i poyut verie far fra my profeffioun to
be a rnovair or fteirair up of feditioun, as his Maieftie wes informed of
me ; and fra my hairt I deteil fuche feditious practizes, as being moft
impious and wicked, and repugnant to the holy ordinanceis of God,
quhairby we ar commandit to gif all dew obedyence to our fuperiouris :
And, as 1 lhew unto your Lordlhips, my comeing to this Burgh the tym
df the Parliament wes upon a meare neceffitie, and to efchew the danger
of horneing, quhairwith I wes threttcned for xxm (twenty tlioufand)
uierkis; and dureing the fliort tyme of my aboade heir, whilk wes not
xxxvj houris, I fpak not with a Parliament-man, except the Lord Kil-
fayth, whome I employed to be a cautionar for me, and had no kynd of
meddling with the affairs of the Parliament, becaus thay concernit me
not, but keept my felff verry quyet till my away going; and dureing
the tyme of my wairding in the Caftell of Edinburgh, my cariage wes
fo modeft, calm, and peaceabill, withoute inedling with the niatteris of
the Kirk now in queftioun, as I hoip no thing can be objectit unto me:
And vf his Maieftie wald be graciouflie |>!eafit to fuffer me fpend the
few remanent of my aigeit and wearyfome dayes at my awne houfc, 1
will he verrie glad, and willing to be perpetuallie confynned thair, and
twa mvllis thair aboute ; and I fall never tranfeend that boundis, nor
medle with ony matter concerneing the Pollicie and Government of tin'
Kirk. Moft humblie befeiking your Lordlhips to haif coniideratioun of
this my eftate, and outher he your felffis or be your interceflioun at his
Maiefteia handis, to grant me foine eafe and releiff in this havic charge
laved upoun me, whilk will he my utter overthrow and wrak : And
your Lordlhips Anfwer.1
Wodrow, in lii« Life of Bruce, conjectured that " this affectionate' Petition,*1 which lias
no date, might have been about March L622. The actual date was October lGi-'l.as appears
from the Council's letter transmitting this Petition to his Majesty: see page GGS.
1623.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 823
Page 706. CCCXLVI.f
HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE LORD CHANCELLOR, &e.
James R.
Righte truftie and riglite welbeloued Counfellour, and rightc
truftie and righte welbeloued Cofen and Counfellour, Wee greete yow
well : Wheras Wee are credibillie enformed that Edward Maxwell of
Hilles and his pnedeceffours haue bene kindelie tackefmen to certeyne
teyndes helde of the Colledge of Linclouden thefe feauen or eighte fcore
yeares bypaft, and that Mr Robert Douglas, laft Proveft of Linclouden,
bailing fette certeyne tackes to him, which not being in all pointes con-
forme to the ftricte order of law, are quarrelled, and in danger to be
reduced by the new Proveft, to the greate hinderance (if not vtter
vndoing) of the faid Edward : And becaus he was in bona fide, and
payed fufficient confederation for the faid tackes, Wee haue thoughte
good by thefe pnefentes to require yow to intercede with the parties to
fubmitte them felues to your arbitrement, or to that of fuch other indif-
ferent frendes as they mall thinke fitte for the amicable compofition of
all matters contraverted betwixte them. Wherein nothing doubting of
your belt endeauours, Wee bid yow farewell. Giuen at Our Pallace of
Whitehalle, the eight and twentyth of Januarie 1623.
To Our righte truftie, [&c, ut supra.']
Page 714. CCCCLIILf
HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL.
James R.
Righte truftie and righte welbeloued Counfellour, righte truftie and
right welbeloued Cofen and Counfellour, and others Our righte truftie
and welbeloued Counfellours, Wee greete you well : Whereas Williame
824 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1623.
Douglas of Drumlangrig hath certeyne actions depending hefore yow,
Wee haue thought good by thefe prsefentes to recoramende him and
them to your fpeciall furderance, that inch order may be taken tliarin
as all vnneceffarie dclayes being fette alide, yee will determine the fame
according to Juftice; and in fpeciall, an a&ioun betwixte him and
Edwarde Maxwell of Hillcs, which Wee require yow to expede with all
expeditioun, as yee fhall finde the caufe to require. And nothing
doubting of your sequitable proceding in the pnemifl'es, Wee bid yow
farewell. Giuen at Our Mannour of Grenewieh, the 14th day of Maie
L628.
To Our righte truilie, [&c, ut supra.']
Page 720. CCCCLVH.f
HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE COMMISSIONERS ON RENTS
IN SCOTLAND.
James B.
Eighte truftie and righte welbeloued Cofens and Counfellours,
and righte truftie and welbeloued Counfellours, Wee greete yow well :
Whereas Wee banc bene pleafed to mortifie to Our Chappell Eoyall
the wholle Chaplanries in that Our Eingdome which are at Our dona-
tion, and fomc other unalle benefices and pittie rentes particularelie
exprefl in Our Signature, Wee haue thoghte good by thefe prcefentes to
require vow to expede Our faid Signature with all conuenient expedi-
tioun, together with Our guiftc of the bygone few-dewties of the laid
Chaplainries, Praebandries, and Channones landes, to Mr James Law,
withoute anie compolition at all. Lykwife that yee expede no Signa-
ture of anie fmall chaplainries or benefices of the like nature in time
comming, till Wee lhall finde that Our faid Chappell is fufheientlie
prouided. Moreouer yee are to caufe the dorekeeper and artificer
of Our faid Chappelle be paved as before, til the Chappelle come in
vie of payment of the dewties mortified thereunto. And lafilie, yee are
1623.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 825
to caufe defkes and feates be builded for the Quirifters, wherein none
inuft fitte but them felues, jufte before thofe appointed for the Nobi-
litie. And nothing doubting of your readie performance of the prge-
miffes, Wee bid yow fareweU. Giuen at Our Pallace of Whitehalle,
the XXth of Julie 1623.
To Our righte truftie, &c, The Earle of Mar,
Our Treaforer, and remanent Commiffioners
appointed for managing Our rentes in Our
Kingdome of Scotland.
Page 738. CCCCLXXH.t
HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL.
James R.
Righte truftie and right welbeloued Counfellour, Right truftie and
right welbeloued Cofens and Counfellours, and others Our truftie and
welbeloued Counfellours, Wee greete yow well : Vnderftanding that no
choife [as yitt is] made by Oure Bourghe of Air, of one to fucceid in
place of [their lait] Minifter, notwithftanding that he being lawfullie
depriued [of his miniftrie, is lyke]wife denunced rebell, and putt to
Our home ; whiche being a contempt, [fcanclalous] and of ill exemple,
to the effect that the fame may not be [increfced by] longer tolleration
or hope of impunitie, Wee haue thefe prefentes to require yow to call
before yow the Ma[giftrates of] the faid Burghe, and to certifie the
Archbifhope of Glafgow [of the clay to] be affigned to them for their
appeirance before yow, [requiring him] that he may be then prefent to
affift yow with his belt [advife and concurrence, as well for cenfureing
them for thair foir[mer negligence and] contempt, as for perfwading
them to ane vndelayed [choife and admiffion] of ane well qualified, and
fitting both for doctrine [and con]formitie in difcipline, to fill and exerce
that place ; wherto [if ony] of the faids Magiftrats, or others intereffed
in that choife, fhall [lhew] themfelues refra6tarie or vnwilling, yee fhall
in that cafe give [ftricl] order for their reall punifliement by committing
of their per[fones, and in]nicting of fuch further payne or penalties, as
5 M
826 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1624.
fhalbe thoght [meete for their] condigne punifhement, to the exemple
and tcrrour [of others.] Thus not doubteing of your carefull perform-
ance [in the pr]cmiffes with all poffible diligence, Wee bid yow farewell.
[Given at Our] Courte at Theobalds, the third of Marche 1624.
To Oure right truftie, [&c, ut supra.~\
Page 738. CCCCLXXIII.t
THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL TO THE ARCHBISHOP OF GLASGOW.
After oure verie hairtlie commendationis to your goode Lord-
Qiip : According to ane dire&ioun which we haif laitlie reffauit frome
the Kingis Maieftie, we haif directit chargeis aganis the Proveft and
Baillies of Air, for thair cornpeirance befoir the Counfell vpoun the 2~>
day of Marche inftant, to anfuer vpoun thair contemptuous delaying to
mak choife of one to fucceid in place of thair lait Minifter : And
whereas it is his Maiefteis pleafour that your Lordfhip falbe prefent at
this dyet to affift the Counfell with youre beft aduife and opinioun.
bothe for cenfureing and punifheing of the negligence and contempte
(il the perfonis foirfaidis, as for perfuading of thame to ane vndelayed
choife of ane qualifeit and fitt perfone to fill and exerce the laid place.
Thefe ar thairfoir to requeift and deiire your goode Lordfhip to keepe
this dyet preceiflic, to the intent that, by your Lordihipis prefence and
concurrence, we may proceid in the buflynes as his Maieftie lies com-
mandit ; whilk lookeing afiuredlie your Lordfhip will do, we committ
your Lordfhip to God. Frome Edinburgh, the xj day of Marche 1624.
Your Lordfhipis verie loving and allured goode Frcindis,
S« W. Ouphant. Geo. Canceu.*.
Ar. Naper. Roxbur<;m.
A. Gibsone. Melros.
Lauderdaill.
To the Archiebifliop of Glafgow.
1624.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 827
Page 745. CCCCLXXVI.t
HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE LOEDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL.
[James R.]
Right truftie and right welbeloued Coufen and Counfellour, and
truftie and weilbeloued Counfellouris, We greit yow weill : Haueing
heard from the Bifchop of Rofs that thair is a claufe inferted within a
Chartour granted to the Lord Balmerynock1 when he wes reftored by
Ws to his Fatheris eftait, Avkereby he heth appropriat vnto him felff, by
a new gift frome Ws, the right of patronage, and the difpofeing of
beneficeis with the faid Bifchoprik, to the grite prejudice thairof, We
do neuer remember of any fuche thing intendit by Ws, and can not bot
think that it was procured without Our knawledge ; for otherwayes yf
We had bene acquentit thairwith, We haue euer bene fo cairfull to
haue beneficeis and preuiledgeis reftoired vnto tke Ckurcke tkat ar
juftlie dewe vnto kir, tkat We wald neuer kaue condifcendit vnto tkis
wkicke is fo far contrary to that courfe whiche We do vfuallie keepe ;
And We will omitt no lawfull meanis that We may vfe, wharby it may
be repaired : And thairfoir fince We haue of lait figned a fignatour of
new to the faid Bifchope for his better furetie of his faid Bifchoprike,
We defyre that it may be dispatched and paffed Our Seales with dili-
gence : As lykewyfe that uther fignatour whiche We haue granted
vnto him of the nonentrie of the right of the maillis of the Barony of
Delveis, whiche ar fallin in Our kandis tkrow nonentrie of tke keiris of
the late Sir William Keyth ; And that yow imparte this Our pleafour
to any whofe help falbe requifite for expeditioun thairof. So affureing
yow that We will accompt the furthering of the faid Bifchope to recover
that whiche juftlie doth belong vnto his Bifchoprik, as goode fervice
done vnto Ws, We bid yow fairweill. From Oure Courte at Theobalds,
the fyfth of Apryle 1624.
1 A long minute in connection with this grant, proceeding upon a Supplication from
John Lord Balmerinoch, occurs in the " Decreta " of Privy Council, 10th of March 1624 ;
but in many places it is illegible from damp.
ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1624.
Page 745. CCCCLXXVI.ft
HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE LORD CHANCELLOR.
| .Tames R.]
Right truftie and right weilbelouit Counfellour, Wee greete vow
weele : Whereas Wee ar erediblie enformed that eertane not onlie of
the Magiftrates, but euen of the bafeft tradefmen of Edinburgh, have
prcfoomed to ccnfure the doctrine of fome of thair Minifteris (a prelum p-
tioun whiche, gif in dew tyme it be not curbed, may produce anc infinitie
of bad effectis), Wee can not be in quiet till the treuthe of that mater be
i'ufticientlie tryed ; and becaus Wee will haue it condignelie punimed,
Wee haif thoght goode by thefe prefents to require yow to joyne to
your felff the two Arehbifhoppis, Our Thefaurair, Secretarie, the Bifhop
of Dumblane, and Our Aduocat, and to call befoir yow not onlie the
Magiftrates and Minifteris of Our laid Burgh, but lykewayes fuche
other perfones whofe names falbe gevin vnto yow in writing, and to
examine and trye whether Mr Rig, one of the Bayliffes, and his com-
pliceis (by name one Dikfoun a flefher, John Minne, and one Hammil-
toun ane apothecarie, with diners otheris), did prefume to ceni'ure
Doctor Fosbes his doctrine; and when it wes told thame that they
wer no judgeis, whether Mr Rig infifted to prooue that tbav wer :
Secondlie, to examine who wer prefente, and whether the Proveft and
remanent Bayliffes wer there or not; and gif all concurred in urgeing
thair Minifteris to go againft thair former pradtife in Kneeling at the
Communioun, and foe both breake the lawes of that Our Kingdome and
the Orderis of the Churche ; and having fufficientlic enformed your leltlis
of the whole mater and circumftanceis thairof, and of the behaviour of
cache feuerall perfone thairin, with all expeditioun to acquent Ws with
the fame, and lykewile with your opinioun what punilhement yee think
litt to be inflicted on the oft'endouris, whereby the lyke difordourlie pre-
fumptioun may be in tyme comeing prevented. And nothing doubting
of your cairfull and diligent proceiding herein, Wee bid yow fail well.
Gevin at Our Mannour of Theobaldis, the 19th day of Aprile 1G24.
1624.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIES. 829
Page 745. CCCCLXXVI.ft
HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL.
James R.
Right truftie and right weilbeloued Counfallour, right truftie
and right weilbeloued Coufenis and Counfallouris, and truftie and weil-
beloued Counfallours, "We greit you weill : At what tyme We wer
pleal'ed to liaue erectit the Abbacie of Inchaffray in a temporalitie
to the late Lord of Madertie, the kit Erll of Tullybardin futed of Ws
the flay of Our grante till he and his freindis might be fecured of fuche
teyndis as thay held of the faid Abbacye, Wherunto We haueing
yeildit, the matter (as We ar crediblie enformed) wes fubmittit to
frendis, and a Decreit Arbitrall pronounced thairin ; Quhilk decreit not
being at the deceife of the laid Lord of Madertie putt to executioun
his Sone comeing to Ws about a tuelf month ago to crave the ere&ioun
of the faid Abbacie, We denyed lus requeift, till at the humble fuite of
the now Erll of Tullybardin and his frendis, We wer pleafit to grant
the fame, fo as the matter wes of new fubmitted to frendis, and Our
Coufen, the kit Duke of Ritchmonth, cholen ouerifman, in whole handis
alfo Our fignatour wes putt, to be keipt till the matter fould be con-
cluded : But becaus, fince the deceis of Our faid Coufen, Our faid fig-
natour cannot be found, We haif thoght goode by thefe prefentis to
require yow to fend for the now Lord of Madertie, and to underftand of
him quhair the fault was that the firft Decreit Arbitrall was not fulfilled,
and yf he himfelff will not fulfill it, or performe the headis of his laft
fubmiffioun, and advertife Ws of his anfueir ; and yf Our faid fignatour
falbe broght to yow to be expecl, that ye gif way thairunto, till ye haue
adverteift Ws, and frome Our felff vnderftoode Our further pleafour in
that matter : Wherein nothing doubting of your cair, We bid yow fair-
well. Given at our Mannour of Greenwich, the xx° day of Mai] 1G24.1
1 The original is much mutilated, but a copy of the letter is inserted in the volume of
the " Registrum Secreti Concilii, Royal Letters," &c., along with the Council's Answer :
also a letter to the Council from Lord Madertie, dated 7th June 1624.
830 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1624.
Page 750. CCCCLXXIX.
[Copies of tliis and feveral other letters in 1624 are inferted, with
flight differences of orthography, in the volume of the Privy Council
Regiftcr, containing Royal Letters, 1623 to 1632. In the prefent
inftancc, the Ggnatures at page 752 are given as follows : — " Chancel-
lonr, Mar, Lauderdaill, Jo. Erfkene, Carnegie, A. Mr Elphinftone,
Ar. Naper, R. Cockburne, Kilfayth, .la. Hammiltoun, Sir A. Hammil-
toun, W. Oliphant, A. Gibfonc."
The title of No. CCCCLXXX, (hould have been, The Officeks of State, &c]
Page 756. CCCCLXXXI.t
THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL TO THE BISHOP OF ABERDEEN.
After our verie hairtlie commendationis to your goode Lordfhip :
By a letter written be the Archiebifchop of St Androis to me, his
Maiefteis Chancellour, we ar informit of the increfe and growthe of
Poprie within thefe boundis, and of the public! and uncontroulled reffett
and aboade of excommunicat trafficqueing Papiftis within the Burgh of
Abirdene, and in fpeciall how the Laird of Craig Gordoun,1 a excom-
municat Papift, behavis him i'elff mod offenfiuelie and flanderouflie to
the contempt of law, and mifregaird of his Maiefteis aucloritie, for
rcprefling of quhilkis offenfeis and preuenting the forder growthe
thairof, we haif heirwith lend vnto your Lordfhip ane warrand to the
Proueft and Baillics of Aberdein to apprehend all fuche Excommunicat
Papiftis within that toune, as your Lordfhip fall gif in note vnto
thame ; and we haif lykcwyis fend vnto your Lordfhip letters aganis
the Laird of Craig, whilk you fall cans execute to ony fuch day in this
Seflioun as your Lordfliip may conuenientlie kecpe, for your LorcUhipis
prefence at that meeting wilbe moil ncceflar; and in every other thing
quhairhy we may teftifie our goode affectione to the fuppreffing of
Poprie, your Lordfliip may expect frome ws all the concurrence and
' John Cordon of Craig younger, styled "a most scandalous example, and sedulous
r." (Maidment'a Analecta Scotica, vol. ii. p. 53.)
1624.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 831
affiftance that our placeis will allow. And lb with the remembrance of
oure belt affectionis, we committ your Lordfhip to Cod. Frome
Edinburgh, the firft of Julij 1624.
Page 756. CCCCLXXXI.ft
THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL TO THE BISHOP OF ROSS.
After our verrie hairtlie commendationis to your goode Lordfhip :
Complaynt hes bene maid vnto ws be David Aikinhead, lait Proueft of
Edinburgh, that Mr Johnne Monro, Minifter at Feme, being debtfull to
him in a certane fowme of money, and that he haveing ufed all ordinare
executioun ufuall be the Lawis of this Kingdome aganis the faid Mr
Johnne for payment of the faid fowme, alfweill be inhibitionis as be
horneing and captioun, whilkis ar all mifregairdit and contempnit be
him, as gif he wes nouther fubiect to King, Law, nor Juilice, that not-
withftanding to the forder contempt of the Law, befydis the offence of
God, and fkandall of the Miniftrie, he continowis in his function and
charge of the Miniftrie at the faid kirk, as gif he wer a frie fubiecl; ;
and quhairas this is a mater of verie bad example, and fkandalous
in a Reformed Kirk, that he who is a Minifter, and fould be ane
preacheour of obedyence to utheris, fould in his owne perfone be fo
offenfive to the Law, and gif example of diflbbedyence to utheris ; We
haif thairfoir thoght meit to gif notice heirof unto your Lordfhip, who
is his Ordinar, requeifting and defyreing your good Lordfhip to admo-
nifhe him of his dewetie, and of the fcandall he gifis to his profeffioun
and miniftrie by his notour and contemptuous rebellioun and diffo-
bedyence, and that your Lordfhip will aduyfe him outlier to purge him
i'elff tymoullie of that horneing, and failyeing thairof that your Lordfhip
will aflure him, that you will purge and remoue the fcandall whilk in
his perfone is gevin to the Kirk, by filenceing of him, and fufpending of
him fra his miniftrie dureing his rebellioun : Whilk remitting to your
Lordfhipis confideratioun is a poynt whilk, in our opinioun, belongis to
your chairge, we committ your Lordfhip to God. Frome Halyrud-
houfe, the day of Julij 1624.
832 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1624.
Page 758. CCCCLXXXII.t
THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL TO THE ARCHBISHOP OF
ST ANDREWS.
After our verrie hairtlie commendationis to your goode Lord-
iliip: Haueing by our former letter certified your Lordfhip of the
dyet appoyntit for heiring of the Grieuanceis, qidiilk is appoyntit to
be vpoun the xxj of this inftant, we haue now fenfyne reffaued fome
new adverteifment from His Maieftie, quhairin your Lordfhip's pre-
fence is alwayes requifite and neceffar : And thairfoir thefe ar to
requeift and defyre your goode Lordfliip, that yf yow may not keip
the firft day, that yow faill not, all excuffes fett afyde, to be heir
the morne thairefter, that we may be affifted by your Lordlhip's
aduyfe in the particulars recommendit be his Maieftie vnto ws : And
lookeing for your Lordlhip's preceis keiping of this dyett, becaus it
may fuffer no delay, we committ your Lordfliip to God. Frome Ilaly-
rudhous, the xviij of Julij 1624.
Page 758. CCCCLXXXILtf
HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL
James Et.
Right truftie and right weilbeloued Counfallour, right truftie
and right weilbeloued Coufens and Counfallouris, and right truftie and
weilbeloued Counfallouris, We greit yow weill : We reffaued from yow
two letters, both of the xvth of June, one concerning the Scottis Shippis
taikin by the Dunkirk eris; and the uther concerning Mr Robert Boyde.
As for the firft, We had long longbefoir the recepte of your letter given
ordour to Our Agent Refidcnt at Bruxellis to crave reftitutioun, with
certificatioun, in caife of refufall, that We wald give licence to the pair-
ivcs intereffed to repair thair loffe be way of facie. As concerning Mr
Boben Boyde, We mervell that not any Bilhope did fette his hand to
1624.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 833
that letter1 which ye fent to Us in his fauouris: And thairfoir We
fufpend Our judgement, and deferre to declair Our pleafour concerning
him, till We falbe furder enformed of his behauiour by the Bifchoppes :
Whiche expecting in tyme conuenient, We bid yow fairweill. Giuen at
Royfton, the 18th of Julij 1624.
To Our right truftie, [&c, ut supra.]
Page 762. CCCCLXXXV.f
HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL.
[James R.]
Right truftie and right welbeloued Counfellour, right truftie and
right welbeloued Cofens and Counfellours, and richt truftie and wel-
beloued Counfellours, We greete yow well : Wheras We haue bene
crediblie enformed that Mr George Dunbar, being depryved and put to
Our home, did notwithftanding preach publicklie, for ane certane fpace
at Aire,2 without controllement, a contempt of Us and Our authoritie fo
greate in the Magiftrates of that Towne, as We think it fufticient to for-
feit thair liberties : And leaft that precedent be drawin to example
heirafter, It is Our fpeciall pleafour that ye call befoir yow the whole
Magiftrates and Counfell of that Towne, and narrowlie trie and examine
if the laid Mr George did preache thair publicklie by thair toleratioun
(at leaft not difcharged by them), and if ye fall find that it was fo
indeed, that ye committe them to fafe cuftodie till yee advertife Us of
youre opinioun, and vndirftand Our forder pleafure concerning thair
punifliement. Given at Apthorpe, the laft of Julie 1624.
1 Principal of the University of Edinburgh : See the signatures Council's Letter, supra,
p. 752 ; and the note, p. 830.
2 From the following letter of Charles the First, it appears that Dunbar had not trans-
ported himself to Ireland within the time prescribed : See notes to pages 762, 763, and 766 : —
Charles R.
Right trustie and right welbeloued, &c. : Whereas We vnderstand that while the
Archbishop of Glasgow was to plant a Minister at the Churche of Air, some turbulent
persones thair wer so bold as to mak protestatioun aganis his admissioun, and that by the
instigatioun of Mr George Dunbar, who wes censured and removed from the Ministrie of
5 N
384 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1624.
Page 764. CCCCLXXXVLt
THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL TO THE ARCHBISHOP OF
ST ANDREWS.
After our verrie hairtlie commendationls to jour goode Lord-
Ihip: Mr Robert Bruce being, in tbc montb of Marcbe laft, havelie
vilik' with feiknes, thair wes a petitioun given in to the Counfaill be his
Sone, that he might haif libertie to bring the laid Mr Robert fra the
Burgh of Innernes to his hous of Kynnaird, quhair for the better
rccouerie of his health he might gett his naturall aire dureing the
fchort Summer feafoun. This Petitioun wes grantit vpoun cautioun for
his returne bak to Innernes betuixt and the firft of the approtcheing
September ; and that he fould not preatche in the meanetyme vnder the
paine of ijm merkis. Now this day Mr Robert hes given in a bill in bis
owne name, craueing a prorogatioun of the terme of his returne bak to
[nnernes vntill the Spring tymc ; and for this he pretends the neceflitie
of his adois at this Mertymes terme, as indeed we ar informed be lies
too mony of tluune ; be alfua pretendis his grcit aige, the infirmitie and
waiknes of bis perfone, the diitemperatione of his bodie, and mony
difeaffes whilk aige and the eauld Winter feafoun drawis vpoun him,
all whilkis ar weele knowne to be incident to aige ; we hauc grantit a
prorogatioun to him vntill the laft of September, bot wald medle no
forder thairin without His Majefteis allowance : And tbairfoir we will
requeill and defyre your goode Lordiliip, that, at the firft occafioun of
vmir wreitting to his Majeftie, vow will acquent bis Majeftie with Mr
Robert his petitioun, and with the reffonis of the fame, wherein as
appeiris thair wilbe litle preiudice, be finding cautioun to keip the
houndis of his confyneing at his awnc houfe, and not to preatche.
that Towne for hi^ misdemeanour; Thairfore We haif thoght meitt to will and require
sou i.i cite before you the said Mr George, and all otheris who did signe the said Pro-
testatioun, of whome you sall>c informed bj the said Archbishop, to the effect that, alter
ilue tryall, you may punishe thame accordinglie, as you find thair faultis to deserve, and
caus be put in executioun the Act of Counsaill formerlie maid againis the said Mr George
Dunbar. So remitting to youi nsideratioun what further you think titt to be done
thairanont, We hid vow farewell. Whitehall. 3 Julij 1G2.3.
1624.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 835
Quliilk remitting to your Lordfhipis goode difcretioun, and committing
your Lordfhip to the protectioun of the Almightie, we reft.
Bugcleuch. Mar.
Melkos. Roxbukghe.
Frome Edinburgh, the xxv(h Auguft 1624.
Page 76-1. CCCCLXXXVI.fj-
HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE LORDS OF PEIYY COUNCIL.
[James R.]
Right truftie and right welbeloued Counfellour, Right truftie
and right welbeloued Cofens and Counfellours, and right truftie and
welbeloued Counfellours, We greete you weill: Our earneft care to
haue Papiftrie and Puritanifme reprefl in that Kingdome is not
unknowne to you, whiche hath moved Us by thefe prefentes to require
you to caufe the Laws againft the Hearers of Maffe, receiptors of Priefts,
Jefuites, and traffiqueing Papiftes, be putt in executioun, and com-
miffionis gevin to all Shereffis and Magiltrates of Burroughes to appre-
hend thame quhairfoeuer they may be found :
That no Shereff, Aduocat, Clerk, Magiftrat in Burrough, or onie
other publick Officer, be receaued till they firft praelife Conformitie ;
and that everie Burrough be charged againft Michaelmas to obferue
this in the electioun of their Magiftrates for the yeare to come, vnder
the pane of the lofs of their freedomes.
That the whole Councell, Sefiioun, and all the Members thairof, with
the Magiftrates and all the people of Edinburgh, be putt to pradtife
obedience according to the laite Proclamatioun, and under the paines
conteined thairin, with this additioun, That at the nixt fitting downe
of the Sefiioun at Hallowmes nixt, everie Lord, Advocate, and Clerke,
promeis obedience at the time appointed, or be removed from his
place.
That ye call vnto yow the Magiftrates of Edinburgh, and with them
836 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1624.
take ane prefent courfe, that that Townc be devided in parochins; tliair
Minifters fullicientlic provided ; tliair Seffionis chofen by thair Minifters
and Magiftratcs ; and that eyerie one keepe their ownc paroche, and
be not permitted to vage, but to communicate in their owne paroche
churches.
And laftlie. whereas We have commandit a Catalogue to be yearlie
made in every paroche, of Papiftes and Difconforme perfones inhabiting
thairin, to be deliverit to the Bifhopes, and by them to yow, it is Our
pleafure, that according as thay falbe deliverit to you, ye fend thame to
Vs from time to time. And in all the pnemiffes exfpedting your fpeciall
care, We bid you lairweill. Given at Byffane,1 the 29 of Augufte
1624.2
Page 765. CCCCLXXXVII.t
HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE LORDS OF PEIVT COUNCIL.
[James R.]
Right truftie and welbeloued Cofens and Counfellours, and right
truftie and welbeloued Counfellours, Wee greete yow well: Whereas
for certane good refpecls We have bene pleafed to figne a grante of the
Abbacie of Inchaftray to Mr Patrick Murray, fervant to Our dearefl
Sone the Prince,3 We have thoght good by thefe prefentes to require
you to give way vnto the fame, that it may be exped through Our
Scales according to the ordour : Wherein doubting nothing of vour
conformittie to Our pleafour, We bid yow farewell. Given at Our
Honnour of Hamptoun, the 20 day of September 1624.
1 Probably Bisham Abbey, the seat of Sir Edward Hoby, which the King had visited on
former occasions.
8 The Answer to this letter, on the 22d of September, is printed supra, p. 765.
■ A previous grant o( this Abbacy had been made to Lord Maderty (see supra, p. 820) ;
but the death of .lames having occurred before the above grant was confirmed, a new
letter was signed by Charles the First, in favour of Mr Patrick Murray, as follows : —
i LRLES H. — Right trustie, &o. : Whereas for certane g le respectis We liaif bene
pleased i" signe a grant of the Abbacie of Inchaffray to Our Servant Mr Patrik Murray,
\\v haif thou phi g wde be these presents to require you to gif way vnto the same, that
1624.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIRS. 837
Page 765. CCCCLXXXVILft
HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE LORDS OF PEIVY COUNCIL.
James R.
Righte truftie and righte welbeloued Counfellour, riglite truflie
and righte welbeloued Cofens and Counfellours, and right truftie and
welbeloued Counfellours, Wee greit yow well: Whereas the Arch-
bylhope of Sanct Androis hath bene an humble fuiter vnto Vs on the
behalf of Mr Robert Bruce, earneftlie crauing that (by reafon of the
indifpofition and weaknes of bodie of the faid Mr Roberte1) he may
have a prorogation of the time limited for his returne to his confining
at Innernefl'e, Wee are well pleafed that the faid Mr Roberte mall haue
libertie during the time of this enfuing Winter to remayne at his owne
houfe, prouided alwife that during all the time aforefaid he neyther
preach, make feaftes, nor vifites ; and in cafe of breach, to be pra?-
fentlie fente to Innerneffe in what weather fo euer it fhall happen to
be : for Wee thinke it neyther conuenient nor tolerable that he who
oppofeth him felfe againfte all Byfhoppes fhould play the part of an
univerfall Bylhoppe, and lyke an Apoftle go frome place to place
preaching the Gofpell : And of the prceniiffes willing yow to tak fuffi-
cient fecuritie, Wee bid yow farewell. Giuen at Our Mannour of Theo-
baldes, the 22 day of September 1624.2
To Our Righte truftie, &c, Sir George Hay
knighte, Our Chancellour, and remanent
Earles, Lordes, and others of Our Priuie
Councell in Our Kingdome of Scotlande.
it may be exped through Our Seales according to the ordour : Wherein nothing doubting
of your conforniitie to Our pleasure, We bid you farewell. Gevin at Our Castell of
Windsore, the 1 9th of July 1625.
A letter from the Privy Council, in reference to the Abbacy of Inchaffray, is inserted
in the Register of Royal Letters, 27th September 1625. There is also preserved an ori-
ginal letter on the subject from King Charles to the Council, dated 18th October 1627.
1 At the request of the Privy Council, on the 25th of August : See supra, page 834.
■ The original letter is injured, but it is recorded in the volume of " Royal Letters."
838 ORIGINAL LETTERS RELATING [1624.
Pagb765. CCCCLXXXVIII.
[In the volume of " Royal Letters," 1623 to 1632, this letter, dated
the 22d of September, likewife commences with the words, " Your
Maiefties letter of the 28 of Julie laft." There are fome flight varia-
tions in the two copies, but not worth fpecifying. The laft of the
lignaturcs is, " J. Hamiltoun," or Sir John Hamilton of Magdalens,
one of the Lords of Scflion. It is marked on the margin " Ane
Anfuer to His Majeftic anent the preceding letter for Churche
materia." The King's letter, however, to which it was the Anfwer, is
the one dated 29th of Auguft, which is now printed at page 835.]
Page 767. CCCCLXXXVIII.t
THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUXCIL TO SOME OF THE XOBILITY.
After our verie hartlie commendatiounis to your good Lord-
Ihip : Thair lies findrie directiounis of grit importance and coni'e-
quence come from His Majeftie in this vacant tyme, wlierwith the
few number of the Councell that keepe the Councell dyettis in tin
vacants wald not medic,1 bot hes referved thame to the heiring and
deliberatioun of ane more frequent nomber of the Nobilitie and
Councell, who ar appointed to convein and meete heir at Edinburgh
fur that effect upoun the 2d day of November nixt to come : And
whereas your Lordlhip"* prefence at this meiting is verie neceil'ar, Theft ■
ar tbairfoir to requeft your good Lordlhip moil earneftlie to keepe
the laid dyet precifelie, and to aflilt the refl of the Councell with
your befl advyfe and opinioun in the maters thair to be proponed
and intreated ; whilk lookeing aihiredlie your Lordlhip will do, we
committ your Lordlhip to God. Frome Edinburgh, the tirfl day of
October 1624.
1 There sevin> to have been no regular meeting of the Privy Council between the 22d
temberand the I'd of November. The Archbishop of Glasgow was present on the 2d,
ami the Archbishop of St Andrews on tin- Ith of November. His Majesty's letter, dated
■ >f .Inly, ami printed at page 83.">, was (hen read ami entered in the Register.
1624.] TO ECCLESIASTICAL AFFAIES. 839
Page 768. CCCCLXXXIX.
[The original of this letter is preferred in the General Begifter Houl'e ;
and alfo the previous Nos. CCCLL, p. 566 ; CCCLXXVII., p. 606 ;
CCCLXXXIV., p. 618; CCCLXXXIX., p. 623; and CCCCXL., p. 694.
But fome of thefe, like Nos. 472f, 478f, 482ft, and 487ft, in tllis
Appendix, are more or lefs injured from the effecls of damp.]
Page 770. CCCCXCI.t
HIS MAJESTY KING JAMES TO THE LOED CHANCELLOR.
[James E.]
Eight truftie and right welbeloued Cofen and Counfellour, We
greete you weill : We wer pleafed to caufe one Williame Symefone to be
committed to the Tolbuith of Edinburgh for his mifbehauiour to the
Minifters ; and now hailing refaved a Petitione of his given to the Arch-
bifhope of St Androis, conteyning a promeis of Conformitie to the
orders of the Churche in all tyme comeing, We have thought goode by
thefe prefents to fend the faid Petitione to you, and withall to require
vow to fignifie Our pleafour to Our Counfell, which is, that if the faid
Symfone fhall doe accordeing to the tennour of his Petitioun, We ar
pleafed that he be fett at libertie ; and nothing doubteing of your care
heirin, We bid yow fairweill. Given at Newmarkett, the 26 day of
November 1624.
Page 772. CCCCXCIII.
[In the footnote to this Act of Council, in place of the firft words,
" The King's letter is not recorded," it fhould read, The King's
letter is recorded in the Privy Council Regifter, of this date, the
15th of December, and is printed immediately preceding this letter, as
No. CCCCXCII.]
840 ORIGINAL LETTERS, &c. [1625.
Page 777. CCCCXCVI.f
THE LORDS OF PRIVY COUNCIL TO THE ARCHBISHOP OF
ST ANDREWS.
After our verie hartlie commendationis to your good Lordihip :
Your Lordihip rememberis that, at our lait rneiting at Falkland, the xiij
<lav of this inftant wes appointit to the Commiffionaris of the Burgh
of Edinburgh, for reporteing ane direct anfueir from thair Towne to the
Articles fett downe be His Maieftie toucheing the diftributioun of the
laid Burgh in competent Parocheis, and toucheing certane utheris
thingia mentionat in the faidis Articles: And becaus of your Lord-
Ihipis abfence thir tua Counfell dayes, we have referred the handling
and heiring of that mater vntill your Lordfhip's comeing, and hes con-
tinewit the fame vntill Twifday nixt, the auchtene of this inftant.
Lyke as the fufpenfioun of the Excommunicat Papiftes in Aberdene, is,
with content of the Bilhop, who is heir prefent, continewit to that day:
And quhairas your Lordihip's prefence and concurrence with us in thir
tua particularis is moil important and neceffar, Thefe ar thairfoir to
requeft and delire your good Lordihip moil earneftlie to keepe this
dyet with us, that we may be the better prepaired to returne vnto His
Maieftie our Anfueir concerning our diligence in the pra'inifi'es ; quhilk
lookeing aH'uredlic your Lordihip will do, we committ your Lorchhip to
God. From Edinburgh, the xiij day of Januar 1G25.
[George Hay.
Mar.
Wihtoun.
MlLROS.]
INDEX.
Abbot, Dr George, Archbishop of Canterbury,
147, 460, 4G2, 474, 475, 485, 500, 732 :—
Letters from King James, 474 ; to Arch-
bishop of St Andrews, 476 ; Memorandum
for ane letter to be written by him, 472.
Aberbrothock, Abbey of. See Arbroath.
Abercorne, James Earl of, 29, 89, 140, 257,
279, 286, 325, 368*, 426*, 540, 604, 815 :
— Letter to King James, 104.
Countess of, 604.
Abercrumby, Robert, Jesuit, 96.
Aberdeen, Bishop of. See Blackburne, and For-
bes, Alexander and Patrick.
General Assembly at, in 1605, 355*,
358*, 369* ; in 1616.
Commissary of, 473.
Dean and Chapter of, 550, 553, 554.
and Ministers of the Diocese
of, Letter to Patrick Forbes of Corse, 553.
Provincial Assembly or Synod of,
Letters to King James, 14, 41.
Presbytery of, 353* 354*
Abemethy, Dr John, Minister of Jedburgh,
398*, 406, 483 ; Bishop of Caithness, 545,
707, 710:— Letters to King James, 526, 708.
Achmowty, John, 736.
Adair, William, 761.
Adam, Mathew, 388—391.
Adamson, John, Minister of Libberton, after-
wards Principal of the University of Edin-
burgh, 572-573, 734; — Letter from John
Hume, 621.
Advocate, Lord. See Hamilton. Oliphant.
Aidie or Aidy, Andrew, Principal of Marischal
College, Aberdeen, 589, 634 ; — Letter to
King James, 589.
Affleck, George, of Balmanno, 816.
Aikenhead, David, Provost of Edinburgh, 791,
831.
Aikett, Laird of. See Cunningham.
Ainslie, James, Bailie of Edinburgh, 519.
Air. See Ayr.
Aird, John, Minister, 504.
Aitchestoun, Gilbert, 761.
Alexander the Second, King of Scotland, 556.
Alexander, John, Minister, 504.
Sir William, of Menstrie, 332, 418,
420, 474, 815.
Allegiance, Oath of, 488.
Altham, Sir James, 111, 147.
Ampthill, 356.
Anderson, Patrick, a Jesuit, 385, 636, 648.
William, Councillor of, Glasgow,
78.
Andrews, Dr Launcelot, Bishop of Chichester,
66 ; Bishop of Ely, 816, 817 ; admitted a
Privy Councillor, 816.
Angloys, Mrs Esther. See Inglis.
Angus, William Earl of, 29, 437, 453 :— Let-
ter to King James, 452.
Lady, 390.
Anna, Queen, Death of, Wife of King James.
596 ; Letter to, from Dame Margaret Sea-
ton, 257.
Annand, Viscount. See Murray.
Annandale, John Earl of. See Murray.
Annand, William, Minister of Ayr, 763.
Apolegetick against the Palinode of Archibald
Symson, 527.
Arbroath, Abbey of, 409.
Archbishops and Bishops : Letters from, to
King James 47. 101, 108, 145, 185, 193,
5o
B42
INDEX.
197, 241, 341, 453, 522, G52; the Earl of
Dunbar, 89; Patrick Forbes of Corse, 543;
John Murray of Lochmaben, .343 : And
from King James, 542, 662.
Ardincaple, Laird of, 378, 374.
Arcskine, or Krskine, John, Minister of Dun,
C43.
Kirk of, 664.
Lord. See Erskine.
Parson of, GC4.
William, Minister of Denino, 483.
Argj-le, Archibald Earl of, 29, GO, 286, 383*,
351, 375, 387, 396, 422, 423, 501, 585,
592, 593, 680.
Bishop of. See Boyd, Campbell.
Arnot, Sir John, 1G4, 2G3, 267, 2G8, 281, 319,
560; Treasurer-Depute, 368», 370*, 383*,
451*, 452* ; Directions to him, 370*.
Arnott, James, Bailie of Edinburgh, 75, 85,
107, SKI.
Arthur, William, Minister of St Cuthberts,
167, 504, 6G4.
Articles agreed on by Ecclesiastical Persons, 7 ;
Articles required for the service of the
Church, 445; The Five Articles of Perth
Ratified, G58.
Anan, Island of, 373.
Arundel, Thomas Earl of. 815; admitted a
Privy Councillor, 815.
Assembly, General — Letters to the Members
from King James, 143, 248. See Commis-
sioners of the Kirk.
at Aberdeen, in 1 G08, 355*,
358*, 369*; in 1616, xxx. ; Proclamation
for holding, in L597, 809; Warrant for
the same, BlO; at Dundee, 361*; at Glas-
gow, in 1610, 425* : at Linlithgow, in 1608,
379*, . 397*, 400*; at Perth,
m HUT. 402*, 429*.
Auchinleck, Andrew, Minister of Largo, 682.
Auchterhouse, Kirk of, 233,
Austria, Archduke of, 622.
Ayr. Presbyterj of, 257;— Letter from Arch-
>p of Glasgow, 586.
Ayr. William Viscount of, 174, 300, 353, 35G,
357, 362, 408, 529, 576, 581, 653, 686,
690, 691 ; afterwards Earl of Dumfries: —
Letter to John Murray of Lochmaben, 418.
Aytoun, Sir Robert, Secretary to the Queen,
355.
Bailzie, Sir James, 334, 688, 69G.
Balcanqucll, Walter, Minister of Edinburgh,
52, iG7.
Balfour, Andrew, Minister, 504.
Sir James, 52, GO.
James, Minister of Edinburgh, 52, 59,
62, G7, 170, 381*, 422*.
John, Minister, 504.
Robert Lord, of Burleigh, 302, 365,
36G, 367.
T., 293.
Balmerinoch, James, Lord President of the
Court of Session, 46, 81, 89, 90, 103, 108,
109, 122, 126, 140, 176, 177, 180, 184, 21 10,
228, 233; Secretary, 357*, 3G1*, 367*,
374*, 377*, 383*, 422* 423* :— Letters
from King James, 371*, 373*; to Kim,
James, 359*.
Balvaird. See Murray.
Balzerdie. See Symmer.
Bancroft, Dr Richard, Archbishop of Canter-
bury, 62, 27G ; — Letter to King James, 54,
117.
Bannatyne, James, 142.
Barlow, Dr William, Bishop of Rochester, 3,
59, G7.
Barclay, Dr David, Minister of Si Andrews,
190.
Barnbarroch, Laird of, 348.
Baron. Dr Robert, Minister of Keith, after-
wards of Aberdeen, and Professor of Theo-
logy in Marisohal College, 610.
Basilicon Doron, by King James, G71.
Bell, James, Bailie <>f Glasgow, 887.
John, Minister of Cadder, 254, 675.
John, Ministei of Glasgow, 254,075.
- — — the Pope's Legate, 400.
INDEX.
843
Bellarmine, Cardinal, 181, 514.
Bellendeu, Adam, Bishop of Dunblane, 171,
172, 175, 451, 523, 528; a Privy Coun-
cillor, 651, 653, 663, 721, 722, 723, 741,
742, 750, 760;— Letters to John Murray
of Dundrennan, 470, 725, 738 ; King James,
715, 770, 828.
Belsches, John, Advocate, 444*.
Benefices, Lords Commissioners of, Letters
from King James VI., 413*, 418* ; to the
Archbishops and Bishops, 415 ; to Lord
Scone, 417*.
Bennet, Andrew, Minister of Monimail, 274.
Kobert, Minister in Ireland, 395.
Berridaill, Lord, 287.
Bewly, 140, 178.
Beza, Theodore, 529, 530.
Bilson, Dr Thomas, Bishop of Winchester, 67.
Binglay, Sir Rodolph, 394.
Binning, Lord. See Melros, Earl of.
Birnie, William, Minister of Lanark, afterwards
of Ayr, 77, 105, 115, 191, 283 ; 311, 444*,
483.
Birsay, place of, 360.
Bischop, James, Minister of Inverness, Letter
to King James, 409.
Bishops. See Archbishops.
anent the ranking and voting of,
383.
Black, William, Minister of Dumbarney, 504.
Blackness Castle, 28-30, 375*, 376*, 776.
Blair, Dr James, Professor in the University
of St Andrews, 272, 490.
Blakburn, Archibald, Minister of Aberdeen,
15.
John, Minister of Cardross, 254.
Peter, Bishop of Aberdeen, 15, 43,
80, 87, 103, 270, 473, 485, 553;— Let-
ters to King James, 103, 220, 309, 379*,
380*, 383*, 416*.
Blakiston, Sir William, knight, 111.
Blantyre, Lord, 29, 71, 73, 81, 183, 226, 286,
293, 396, 675.
Prior of, 225.
Blyth, Helen, 640.
Henry, Minister of Holyrudhouse,
167, 504, 640, 652;— Letter to Henry
Charteris, 639.
Thomas, 639.
Bog, John, Servant to King James, 513.
Bohemia, King of, 622, 681.
Books, Proclamation anent printing of books
beyond Sea, 799.
Bombie, Laird of. See M'Lellan.
Bothwell, Earl of. See Hepburne. Stewart.
Boyd, Andrew, Minister of Paisley, Bishop of
Argyle, 11, 133, 172, 343, 528, 545, 697 ;—
Letters to Archbishop of Glasgow, 303;
Robert Boyd of Trochrig, 692; King
James, 132, 422.
Lord, 387, 576.
Robert of Trochrig, Principal of the
Universities of Glasgow and Edinburgh,
578, 692, 697, 745, 746, 751, 832, 833;—
Letters from Archbishops of Glasgow, 692 ;
and St Andrews, 697 ; Bishop of Argyle,
692 ; Dr John Young, Dean of Winches-
ter, 577.
Boyle, John, Minister of Jedburgh, 395*
—397*.
Braidwood, James, Bailie of Glasgow, 78, 209,
387.
Braunsberg, in East Prussia, 590.
Brechin, Bishops of. See Lamb. Lindsay.
Presbytery of, 195.
Bristol, Bishop of. See Thornborough.
Broughton, Laird of, 349, 394, 451, 733.
__ Lady, 449, 733.
Brown, Gilbert, Abbot of Newabbey, 64, 254,
409*, 410*.
Harbert, 325.
Jean, Lady Garioeh, 325.
.Bruce, Andrew, Regent in St Leonard's Col-
lege, St Andrews, 300, 301.
Dr Peter, Principal of St Leonard's Col-
lege, St Andrews, 269, 272, 490, 575, 673,
432*, 433*, 436*;— Letter to Sir James
Serapill, 300.
Ml
INDEX.
Bruce, Robert of Kinnaird, Minister of Edin-
burgh, 15, 19, 20, 21, 70, 88, 173. 311 , 358*,
430*, 431*, 593, 594; Charge against,
430*, 065, GG6; Committed to the Castle,
667, 668, 673, C74, 676, 677, 726, 739,
763, 764; Declaration of, 821;— Letters
from Privy Council, 376*; John Welsh,
619 ; to King James, 19, 431* ; the Privy
Council, 21, 726; Wife of, 434*, 436*,
834, 837.
Robert, younger of Kinnaird, 739.
Thomas, 396.
William of Symbister, 638.
Bruntisland. See Melville.
Lord, 29, 178, 225, 349, 434,
528, 540, 561, 610, 614, 628, 653.
Bryce, Edward, Minister at Drymen, 105.
Buccleuch, Robert Earl of, 156, 178, 286,
400*, 598, 628, 653, 718, 759, 760, 767,
778, 789, 835.
Buehan, Margaret, 392.
Buchanan, George, Preceptor to King James,
205.
Sir John, knight, Chamberlain of
Orkney and Zetland, 638, 691.
Laird of, 289, 290.
William, Minister of Methven,
403.
Buck, Thomas, 633.
r. a. Iv.iiilgc, Dr, 62.
Buckingham, George Earl of, 814; admitted a
Privy Councillor, 814.
Burghs, Commissioners of the — Letter to King
•lames, 140.
Burlej . See Balfour, Lord.
Burae, John, 381.
Burnet, Adam, 15.
.lames, Minister of Lauder, 504, 730.
Byris, John, Bailie and Dean of Guild of Edin-
burgh, 584, 701, 777.
i Iabboch, Kirk of, 309.
Cadder, Kirk of, t "» T ■"» .
Caddell, Laird of. See Campbell, Sir John.
Cadinet, Marshall de, Ambassador from the
King of France, 648.
Cairstoun, Town of, 371.
Caithnes, Bishop of. See Forbes.
George Earl of, 89, 174, 190, 196,
287, 289, 361, 369-372, 379-382, 393,
526, 707, 710; — Letters to King James,
288, 401, 432.
Calderwood, David, Minister of Crailing, 395*-
397*, 504, 505, 607.
Calendar, Daniel, Provost of Orkney, 322.
Calvert, Sir George, Baron Baltimore, 637.
Calvin, John, 529, 530.
Cameron, John, Principal of the University of
Glasgow, 692, 705.
Campbell, Alexander, Minister of Ardrossan
and Stevinston, 424*, 432*; — Letter to
King James, 234.
Archibald, 348, 393.
Colin, Bailie of Glasgow, 387.
Sir Hugh. See Loudoun.
. John, a Capuchin Friar, 234, 423*.
John, Bishop of Argyll, 241, 303,
416*.
Sir John of Calder, 393.
Sir Matthew, 281.
Campvere, Minister of, 141, 328.
Act anent the Transport of Passen-
gers from, 453*.
Minister of the Scottish Kirkat, 454*.
Staple at, 141.
Canterbury, Archbishop of. See Abbot. Ban-
croft.
Carmichael, Sir Hew of that Ilk, 113.
John, Minister of Newburn, after-
wards Kilconijuliar, <i7, t'l.'t*. 575. 576, 621,
682, 687.
James, Minister of Haddington,
399*.
Carnegy, David Lord. 243, 523, 540; Com-
missioner to the General Assernblie, 568,
576, 605, 610, 613, 614, 628, 653, 656,
670, 673, 686, 752, 756, 759, 760, 778,
780, 815, 816, 830.
INDEX.
845
Carr, Sir Robert, of Ancrum, 438 ; — Letter
from Bishop of Caithness, 437. See Somerset.
Carrick, Bailerie of, 351.
Cassillis, John Earl of, 71, 126, 183, 351, 795.
Castellaw, James, of the Chapel Eoyal, 572,
718, 719, 723.
Cathkin, Edward, Bookseller in Edinburgh,
817.
James, Bookseller in Edinburgh, 608,
624, 626.
Cauldcleuch, John, Minister of Abdie, 26, 37,
274 ; — Letters from Archbishop of St An-
drews, 132, and King James, 25, 86, 116.
Chalmers, David, 417.
.- George, Minister, 504.
John, Minister of Auchterdorran,
504.
Chamberlain, Lord. See Lennox.
Chancellor, Lord. See Dunfermline. Hay.
of the University of St Andrews :
— Letter from King James, 805. See Glad-
stanes. Spottiswood.
Chapel Royal, The, 283, 348, 349, 402, 426,
451, 466, 496-498, 509, 536, 558, 562,
572, 593, 715, 716, 720, 721, 724 ^Infor-
mation concerning, 717 ; — Letter to King
James from Dean and Prebendaries of, 721.
Charles the First, 729, 731 ; — Letter from the
Archbishop of St Andrews, 78S ; Missive to
the Privy Council, 790.
Charles, Prince, 405, 729, 731.
Charteris, Henry, 167 ; — Letter from Henry
Blyth, 639.
Cheisholme, William, Bishop of Dunblane, af-
terwards of Vaison, 180, 181.
Cheisley, John, Minister of Quothquan, 504.
Chester, Bishop of, consecrated, 476.
Chirnesyde, Presbytery of, Letter from Arch-
bishop of St Andrews, 250, 397*, 398*.
Sir Patrick of East Nisbet, Com-
missioner to the Presbytery of Chirnside,
397*, 398*.
Chrisostome, Father, a Priest, 423.
Clandonald of May, 373, 374, 396.
Clark, Alexander, Bailie and Provost of Edin-
burgh, 584, 744, 761, 777, 790.
Clapperton, John, 398*.
Claxton, Sir John knight, 111.
Clerk Register. See Hamilton. Hay, Sir
Alexander and Sir George. Skene.
Closeburn, Laird of, 690.
Cochrane, James, 761.
Cockburn, Sir John of Ormiston, Justice Clerk,
32, 178, 183, 226, 516, 540, 605, 614, 628,
670, 686, 368*, 377*, 383*, 389*, 414*.
795, 809.
Cockburn, Sir Richard of Clerkington, Lord
Privy Seal, 29, 126, 178, 183, 207, 212,
226, 286, 293, 368*, 377*, 383*, 420*,
516, 540, 561, 568, 605, 610, 614, 628,
670, 677, 686, 700, 703, 752, 756, 767,
778, 780, 795, 809, 815, 830.
Cockburn, Sir Samuel of Temple, Sherriff of
Edinburgh, 326 ; — Letter to King James,
308.
Coldenknowis, Laird of, 294.
Coldingham, Pryorie of, 719.
Collace, Francis, Minister of Channelkirk, 504.
Collector of the Taxation, 29, 129, 368*,
383*, 389*.
Colliugwood, George, 111.
Colonia, Don Carlos, Ambassador for Spain.
706.
Colt, Adam, Minister of Musselburgh or In-
veresk, 67, 394*.
Colvill of Culross, Lord, 71, 653, 672.
, Alexander, Professor at Sedan, 622.
Colvine, Robert, Minister of Culross, 504.
Commission, High, 260.
Commissioner. See Montrose.
Commissioners to the General Assembly, his
Majesty's, Letter to King James, 72.
of the Kirk, Letters from King
James, 568 ; to King James, 10, 36, 170-
172.
for planting Kirks, Charge
against, 561.
for visiting the University of
346
IXDEX.
Si Andrews, Letter to the Rector, &c.,
420*.
Commissioners on Rents, Letter from King
James, 824.
Communion, Act anent celebrating the, 448*.
Comptroller. See Scone.
Con, Patrick, Jesuit, 024.
' lonference betwixt bis Majesty and the Minis-
ters of Scotland, 59.
Constable of Dundee, 383*.
Convention of Estates, Letters from King
James, tOl*, 402*.
Cotton. Dr Henry, Bishop of Salisbury, G7.
Council, The Privy, Acts of the, 605, 609, 617,
618, 625, 628, 648, 651, 670, 673, 691,
703, 706, 729, 7:37, 739, 745, 7G3, 770,
772, 775, 777 ; — Letters from Robert Bruce,
21 ; King James, 353*, 355*, 360*, 365*,
367*, 371*, 374*, 379*, 381*, 383*, 387*,
397*, 404*, 405*, 409*, 416*, 421*-424*,
426*, 432*, 433*, 436*, 440*, 442*, 443*,
446*, 451*, 453*, 540, 023, 797, 800, 803,
811, 813, 817, 818, 823, 825, 827, 829,
832, 837 ; the Earl of Dunbar, 211 ; King
.lames, 70, 80, 87, 95, 124, 140, 155, 177,
182, 206, 285, 291,330,357, 358*, 195,
565, 613, 629, 668, 676, 093, 740, 748,
750, 752, 754, 758, 765; Missive to, 410,
127,566, 567,583, 594,600,606,615, 618,
671, 672, 674, 078, 680, 686, 694, 700,
760, 762, 771 ; Proceedings of, 324, 626;
lets of, 373*, 378*, 383*, 384*, 389*,
. 396*, 400*, 407*, 410*, 423*, 429*,
430*, 437*, 448*, 453*, 795. 798, 804, 809,
812, 81 1, 819; And to the Archbishops of
Glasgow | Lay |,826; of St Andrews [Spottis-
wood],832, 834, 839; Bishops of Aberdeen
[P. Forbes], 830; of Murray [Douglas],
134*; of Ross, [P. Lyndsay],831 ; Lord De-
pute of Ireland, 427*; Presbyteries of Cupar,
38, of Haddington, 399*, of St Andrews,
419*; Provost and Bailies of Tain, 425* ;
Mr Robert Bruce, 370* ; some of the No-
bilitie,
Cowdon, John, Minister at Kinross, 385*,
386*.
Cowper, Andrew, of the Chapel Royal, 717,
718, 723.
James, 718.
Thomas, 718.
William, Minister of Perth, Bishop of
Galloway, and Dean of the Chapel Royal,
171, 172, 175, 271, 311, 328, 348, 349,
354, 399, 402, 412, 414, 417, 454, 161,
496, 528, 559, 560, 571, 572, 575, 576,
593, 717, 721, 802-805, 819, 820 ^Let-
ters to David Hume, 346 ; John Murray
of Lochmaben, 395, 451, 455, 459, 468,
571 ; Patrick Symson, 499 ; to King James,
302, 425, 466, *509, 558, 559, 562, 563.
( Iraig, John, Minister, of the King's House, 9.
Sir Lewis, a Lord of Session, 226, 389*,
685.
Craighall, Laird of, 581.
Craigtoun. See Wemyss.
Cramond, Kirk of, 200, 232, 233.
Cranstoun, John, Minister of Libbcrton, 734.
Michael, Minister of Cramond, 107,
201, 2i)2.
Lord, 540, 614, 628.
Riddell. See M'Gill.
William Lord, 795.
William, Minister of Lathrisk,
388*.
Crawford, Captain, 394.
Earl of, 154, 183, 195, 261, 439,
465.
John, 688.
Creich, Laird of, 132.
Creichtoun, Thomas, 329, 330,.
William, Jesuit, Letter to Sir An-
drew Murray, 180.
of Ryhill, 318, 399.
Cruikshank, Robert, 447.
Culross, James Lord, 383*.
Cumberland, Earl of, 112.
Cunningham, Bailerie of, 352.
James, of Aikett, 143, 444.
INDEX.
847
Cunningham, Robert, 97.
Cupar, Presbytery of, Letter from the Privy
Council, 88.
Curriehill. See Skene.
Dalzell, James, Bailie of Edinburgh, 510.
Danielstoun, Sir Eobert. See Dennieston.
Danskin, Henry, Eegent of St Andrews, 272.
Darroche, Eobert, 77.
Dawnie, a Priest, 389, 391.
Declaration of the King's Will against the Im-
prisoned Ministers, 369*.
Deines, George, 530.
Delveis, Barony of, 827.
Denmark, Chancellor of, 350.
King of, 292, 355, 3G7, 608.
Dennieston, Sir Eobert, Conservator in the Low
Countries, 110, 141, 157, 159, 516, 540,
561, 610, 614, 628, 670, 686, 700, 703.
Deputy, Lord. See Ireland.
Derry, Bishop of. See Montgomery.
County of, 394.
Dick, Gilbert, bookseller in Edinburgh, 817.
William, Bailie of Edinburgh, 761, 770,
777, 790.
Dickson, John, flesher, Edinburgh, 740. 742-
745, 748, 776, 828.
Eichard, Minister of St Cuthberts,
167, 762, 766, 767.
Discipline, Eeformation of, 5.
Doctrine, Eeformation of, 4.
Dollar, Kirk of, 262.
Douglas, Alexander, Bishop of Murray, 37,
80, 87, 96, 103, 119, 171, 213, 244, 265,
305-307, 343, 346, 435, 439, 441, 442,
523, 545, 643, 652, 680, 714, 378*, 379*
383*, 404*, 416*, 420*, 432*, 436* ;— Let-
ter from Privy Council, 434* ; And to King
James, 18, 85, 88, 220, 231, 264, 277,
304, 313, 321, 363, 508, 591, 595, 601,
616, 650 ; Petitions to King James, 305.
Archibald, 390.
Archibald, Sir, of Quhittinghame, 226,
368*, 389* 400*.
Douglas, George, Minister in Murray, 15.
Sir George, 29.
James, Gentleman of the Bedcham-
ber, 281, 282, 322, 323, 421, 598, 644,
696, 709, 711, 723 ;— Letter to the Lord
Chancellor, 774.
Sir Eobert, 299, 452.
Eobert, Minister of Kirkcaldy, 682.
Eobert, Provost of Lincluden, 823.
Walter, Councillor of Glasgow. 78.
William, Minister, 504.
. William, of Lincluden, 325.
Sir William, of Drumlanrig, 353, 356,
357, 362, 399, 460, 816, 824.
Dove, Dr Thomas Bishop of Peterborough.
67.
Drumlanrig. See Douglas, Sir William.
Drummond, Sir Alexander, of Medhope, 172,
173, 179, 494, 540, 605, 610, 389*, 795,
805, 809, 815 ;— Letters to King James, 175,
226.
Edward, 180.
John, 94.
Druramorell. See M'Culloch.
Duffus, Laird of. See Sutherland.
Dumfries Kirk of, 222.
Earl of. See Ayr, Viscount of.
Dunavaig, House, or Castle of, 372, 374, 375.
Dunbar College Kirk of, 719.
George, Earl of, Lord High Treasurer,
24-26, 40, 41, 44, 56, 58, 60, 62, 69, 71,
78, 81, 82, 112, 143, 150, 177, 179, 183,
186, 1S8, 189, 191, 195, 197, 203, 235, 250,
252, 260, 262, 267, 269, 281, 285, 312,
359*, 376*, 401*, 425*, 428*, 429*, 455 ;
— Letters from the Bishops, 89 ; King James,
425* ; and the Privy Council, 211 ; to Kim:
James, 198.
George, Minister of Ayr, 279, 280,
283, 504, 762, 763, 766, 767, 833, 834.
John, 219, 220.
Patrick, of the Chapel Eoyal, 718,
723.
Dunblane, Bishop of. See Bellenden. Graham.
B48
INDEX.
Duncau, Andrew, Minister of Crail, 230,
653-655, 668, G70, 703, 704 ;— Letter to
the Archbishop of St Andrews, 698, and
answer, 700.
Duncanson, James, Minister of Tullibody and
Alloa, Letters to King James, 8, 353*.
John, Minister of the King's
House, 8, 9.
Marion, 9.
Walter, 9.
William, 9, 719.
Dundas, James, Minister (of Alves) in Murray,
15.
Dundee, General Assembly held at, 361*.
Dundrennan, Abbey of, 222, 227, 238.
Kirk of, 572.
Dunfermline, Alexander Seaton, Earl of, Lord
Chancellor, 23, 29, 39, 52, 75, 80, 81, 86,
93, 94, 103, 126, 130, 140, 151, 156, 163,
lis, L83,207,226, 228,274,275,281,284,
2 36, 289, 290, 293, 295, 306, 313,314, 330,
332, 354*, 366*-409*, passim, 426*, 428*,
435*, 438*, 439*, 353, 358, 364, 366, 379,
127, 442,461-463, 466, 494, 496, 501,
508, 510, 516, 519, 520, 540, 55$, 561,
562, 592, 598, 605, 610, 613, 614, 628,
630, 631, 653, 668, 670, 672, 677, 686,
689, 690, 798, 802, 809, 812, 815, 818,
82] ; — Letters from King James, 435*,
436*, 811, 823, 828 ; Archbishop of Armagh,
602; Bishop of Orkney, 637 ; John Murray
<>f Loehmaben, 355 ; to Archbishop [Glad-
stones] cit' St Andrews, 438*; Rector, &c.,
of the University of St Andrews, 439*;
King James, 38, 50, 51, 306, 534; Lord
Fentoun, 432 ; John Murray, 349, 367, 413,
123, 136, 593, 646 ; Missives to, 443, 651.
Presbytery of, Letter from King
es, 67.
Dunglass, House of, 430, 536.
Dunkeld, Bishop of. .See Lindsay. Nicolson.
Bollock.
Dunlop, Church of, 413, 444.
James, of Dunlop. 144.
Durham, Bishop of. See James. Matthew.
Durie. See Gibson.
John, Minister at Montrose, 47, 48, 154.
Josua, Minister at St Andrews, 47, 48,
154.
Robert, Minister of Anstruther, 129,
159, 246, 621 ;— Letter to King James,
156.
Simon, Minister of Craigforgan, 215,
and Ferry-Port-on-Craig, 419*.
Dykes, John, Minister of Kilrenny, 246, 247,
385*, 386*, 682.
Dysart, William Earl of, 406.
Parson of. See Murray.
Edinburgh, Bishops preach in, 426 ; desola-
tion of the Ministry, 82 ; the Town divided
into Parishes, 766, 780, 836, 840 ; Grey-
friars Church, 292 ; Mass said in, 446*.
Castle of, 382, 495.
Ministers of, Letters to King
James, 119, 163, 164, L'l's.
Presbytery of, Letters from Kins
James, 1 ; Patrick Galloway, 3 ; to King
James, 151, 165.
Provost and Town-Council of,
Letters to King James, 74, 84, 517.
Edmonston, Sir James, of Duntreath, 647.
Margaret, 647.
Edzel, Laird of. See Liudesay.
Eglintoun, Earl of, 281, 352, 362, 365-367,
414, 443 ; — Letter to King James, 444.
Lady 281.
l'.lic. Bishop of. See Andrews.
Elizabeth, Princess, 464.
Elphingston, Sir George, 387.
Sir James. See Balmerinoch.
Lord, 225, 309, 310, 690.
Master of, 156, 368*, 383*, 540,
.".61, 605, 610, 613, 614, 670, 677, 686,
700, 752, 756, 760, 778, 780, 830.
Robert, 371, 381.
Elsinure, 608.
Englaud, Kirk of, 530, 532.
INDEX.
849
Enzie, George, Earl of, 221.
Errol, Francis, Earl of, 42, 187, 195, 213, 214,
342, 464, 501, 534, 624, 813.
Erskene, John, 830.
Erskiue. See Areskine.
Alexander, of Gogar, 432, 756.
Sir George, of Innerteill, 493, 561,
610, 614, 628, 680, 686, 703, 778, 780.
John, of Dun, 465.
John, Minister of Eeclesgreig, 643.
Lord Erskine, 540, 561, 614, 628,
631, 664, 670, 700, 752, 760, 778, 780.
Sir Thomas, of Gogar. See Fentoun.
Ewing, Thomas, of Cookspow, 499.
Exchequer, Lords Auditors of, Letter from
King James, 439*.
Exeter (Dr William Cotton), Bishop of, 732.
Fairfodll, John, Minister of Dunfermline,
afterwards of Anstruther, 68, 211, 21 8, 246,
416* 424*.
Falkland, 396, 419.
Fauldis, Archibald, Councillor of Glasgow, 78.
Fenton, Thomas Viscount of, 180, 182, 294,
349, 383*, 413, 436, 585 ; Letter from Earl
of Dunfermline, 433. See Kellie.
Fentonbarns. See Prestoun.
Fergusson, David, Minister of Dunfermline,
211.
Trumpeter, 718.
Ferine, Charles, Minister of Fraserburgh, 15,
30, 368*-370*, 373*, 429*, 430* ;— Charge
against, 373*.
Fernihirst, House of, 437.
Ferry-Port-on-Craig, Patronage of, 419.
Fethie, or Futhie, Arthur, Minister of Inver-
keilor, 53, 57, 243.
Fife, Synod of, held at Dysart, 385*, 388*.
Finlayson, John, Chamberlain Depute of Ork-
ney, 340.
Thomas, Printer, 608.
Walter, 296.
Fischer, James, Councillor of Glasgow, 78.
Thomas, merchant, Edinburgh, 74, 84.
Fleming, John Lord. See Wigtoun.
John, 761.
Forbes, Alexander, Bishop of Caithness and
Aberdeen, 37, 93, 147, 172, 187, 241, 213.
244, 270, 295, 343, 346, 383*, 415, 416*,
420, 435*, 462, 463, 473, 477, 485, 496
542, 553, 804, 815 ;— Letters to Sir Robert
Car, 347 ; King James, 4, 5, 47 ; John Mur-
ray, 296, 407, 484.
Captain, afterwards Sir Arthur, 582,
633.
Dr John, Regent in King's Colle
Aberdeen, 589, 590, 634.
John, Minister of Alford, 14, 29, 31,
44, 51, 52, 354*, 364*, 582, 584 ;-Letters
to the King, 158, 478, 479.
Lord, 318, 470.
Patrick, of Corse, Bishop of Aberdeen
483, 486, 518, 543, 550, 566, 571, 576,
589, 590, 601, 621, 653, 673, 677, 703.
770 ; — Letters from Archbishops and Bi-
shops, 543 ; Archbishop of St Andrews, 550 ;
Dean and Ministers of the Diocese of Aber-
deen, 553 ; Privy Council, 830 ; — to Arch-
bishop of St Andrews, 545 ; King James.
227, 582, 633 ; Mr Thomas Mitchell, Minis-
ter of Udney, 551, 552.
Dr William, Minister of Edinburgh .
590, 678, 679, 740, 742-745, 790, S2S.
William, Minister of Kinbethock, 30.
368*, 376*,
Forrest, Alexander, Minister, 504.
Patrick, 529. '
Forrester, Andrew, Minister of Dunfermlini
68.
Forret, A., Councillor of Glasgow, 78.
James, 388, 391.
Thomas, 388-391.
Fosterseat. See Hay.
Foulis, George, Bailie of Edinburgh, 584.
Foullartoun, John, Minister of Dreghorn, 423.
French, James, Minister of Home and Stit-
chell, 504.
Fulleit, Sir Henry, 395.
5 p
350
INDEX.
Gairues, Lt.nl, 17^,395,396, 399,403,411,
125, 426, 451,450.
Calloway, Bishop of. See Cowper. Gordon.
Hamilton.
Galloway, James, Master of Requests, 514,
717.
Patrick, Minister of Edinburgh, 1,
IT, 23, 61, 64, 74, 120, 164, 171, 172,
175, 187, 196, 246, 353, 455*, 483, 500,
Mil, 505, 523, 580, 588, 592, 597-599;
Notes of his Sermon at Christmas, 641, 679,
711, 712, 717, 740, 744, 790;— Letters to
King James, 27, 82, 511 ; the Presbytery of
Edinburgh, 3.
Gardner, James, 381, 392.
General Assembly held at St Andrews, 516-
518, 539, 573, 583; at Aberdeen, 534,
578 ; at Perth, 567, 573, 601, 609, 614,
f)5S.
Gib, John, 315, 402, 425, 562, 571, 718.
Gibsone, Alexander, of Durie, 586, 690, 756,
TTS, 826,830.
Gicht, Laird of. See Gordon, George.
Gilbert, Michael, Minister of North Berwick,
667, 668.
( iladstanes, Dr Alexander, Archdean of St An-
drews, 258, 259, 411, 419, 437, 447, 462,
673, 713, 795.
George, Archbishop of St Andrews,
41, 46, 54, 55, 60, 82, 93, 100, 103, 117,
147, 171, 175, 178, 187, 190, 198, 209,
211, 241-244, 250, 251, 262, 263, 271,
273, 281, 284, 286*, 293, 300, 325, :S27,
330, 343, 346, 362, 377, 383*, 385*, 389*,
403, 411, 411*, 412, 415, 416, 416*, 417,
421, 421*, 424, 425*, 426*, 430, 430*,
432, 432*, 433*, 436, 436*, 437, 438*,
439*, 441*, 446*, 448*, 491, 795, 796,
799 : Letters from Lord Chancellor, 438* ;
to King James, 45, 47, 53, 98, 109, 117,
121, 128, 154, 191, 203, 205, 215, 218,
230, 245, 258, 263, 205, 266, 269, 273,
274, 276, 287,294, 297, 311, 329, 428;
John Caldcleuch, 132; the Presbytery
of Chirnside, 250; John Murray, 296,
299, 350, 354, 363, 376, 447* ; the Ma-
gistrates of Perth, 328 ; Missives to, 411,
425.
Glammis, Lord. See Kinghorn.
Glasgow, Archbishop of. See Law. Spottis-
wood.
City of, 76.
College of, 483.
Magistrates and Council of, Letters
to King James, 7G, 210.
Subdeanery of, 483, 675.
Glenbucket, Kirk of, 309.
Gleneairne, William Earl of, 71, 364, 426*,
435*, 443, 444, 457, 700, 703, 760, 809.
Lands of, 353.
Gleneluden. See Lincluden.
Glenholm, Kirk of, 314.
Glenluce, Abbey of, 251, 252, 299, 559, 688,
820.
God and the King, published, 803; Report
and Warrant concerning this book, 804.
Gordon, Alexander, Bishop of Galloway, 251.
Cornelot, 472.
George, fiar of Gieht, 42, 231, 343,
472, 507, 534.
James, of Letterfowrie, 678, 681.
Lady Jean, Countess of Caithness,
432.
213.
John, of Craig, 830.
John, of Fernaughtie, 678.
. John, Lord Kenmure, 348.
John, servant to Marquis of Huntley,
John, Master of Huntley, 251.
Dr John, Dean of Salisbury, 59, 251,
255, 426*, 427* ;— Letter to King
252,
James, 254.
Lawrence, 252, 815.
Lewis, a Jesuit, 42.
Lord, 507, 605, 653.
Sir Robert, of Lochinvar, 299, 325
348, 349, 395, 449, 450, 688, 820.
Sir Thomas, of Cluny, 816.
INDEX.
851
Gordon, William, of Gicht, 231.
Gornie, Donald, of Slait, 373, 374.
Gowe, Captain, 395.
Graham, David, 474.
George, Bishop of Dunblane and Ork-
ney, 103, 171, 172, 175, 196, 198, 224,
241, 343, 346, 383*, 406, 415, 416*, 454,
455, 523, 638 ;— Letter to the Lord Chan-
cellor, 637.
George, 435.
James of Leuchland, 474.
Sir Robert, of Invermay, 465.
Graitney, Church of, 441*.
Gray, Andrew Lord, 351.
Thomas, of the Chapel Royal, 718.
Green wall, Lands of, 336, 339, 341.
Greg, James, Minister of Lowdoun, 30, 368*-
370*, 432*.
Greir, George, Minister of Haddington, 504.
Grindall, Dr Edmond, Bishop of Loudon, 529.
Guild, William, Minister of Kinedward, 504.
Guthrie, James, Minister of Urquhart, 15.
James, Councillor of Edinburgh,
761.
John, Minister of Edinburgh, Bishop
of Murray, 643, 711, 729.
Haddington, Presbytery of, 2, 668; — Let-
ter from the Archbishop of St Andrews,
667.
Priory of, 597.
Haddowie, Andrew, of Glasgow, 680, 680.
Halcro, Patrick, 371, 378, 379, 392.
Robert, 371, 378, 392.
Haliburton, Sir James, 816.
Hall, John, Minister of Edinburgh, 13, 83,
84, 120, 151, 164, 165, 167, 171, 172,175,
187, 196, 229, 246, 483, 500, 504, 505,
606, 608, 617, 618 ; Charge against, 605 ;
— Letter to King James, 22.
Dr Joseph, Dean of Worcester, 559.
Halyburton alias Moffat. See Moffat.
Hamilton, Allan of Ferguslie, 003, 604,
703.
Hamilton, Sir Andrew, of Redhouse, 226, 516,
540, 561, 610, 628, 670, 686, 700, 703,
778, 815, 830.
Andrew, of Cochno, Captain of Dun-
barton Castle, 647.
Dr Archibald, Minister of Paisley,
647.
ley, 257.
Lord Claud, Commendator of Pais-
1.
Claud, Son to the Laird of Inner-
wick, 449.
Claud, of Cochno, 647.
Gavin, Bishop of Galloway, 37, 45,
47, 103, 109, 147, 171, 172, 175, 185, 187,
194, 196, 198, 219, 241, 299, 383*, 416*,
421*, 425, 426, 427* ;— Letters to King
James, 96, 198, 251.
James Duke of Chatelherault, 257.
James Marquis of, 89, 96, 97, 368*
409, 585, 623, 653, 657, 661-663, 672,
752, 756, 759, 767, 815, 830, 838.
James. See Abercorn.
James, Provost of Glasgow, 387.
James, 254.
James, 348.
James, Son to Lord Binning, 597.
Sir John, Clerk Register, 695, 696,
703, 752, 760, 780.
Sir John, 97.
Sir John, of Lettrick, 816.
John, a Seminary Priest, 1, 2, 64,
410*.
- John, 602, 603.
John, Apothecary, Edinburgh, 740,
409*
743, 768, 828.
John, 429.
Malcolm, Archbishop
of Cashell,
647.
429, 504.
of Orbiston, 603.
Patrick, 372.
Patrick, Minister of Innerwick, 421,
Sir Thomas, of Binny, King's Advo-
cate. See Melros.
INDEX.
Hampton, Dr Christopher, Archbishop of
Armagh ; Letter to the Lord Chancellor, 002.
Eansard, Sir Richard, 394.
Harper, John, Minister of Kilbride, 423*.
il art, Andrew, Bookseller in Edinburgh, COS,
317.
David, 457*.
Sir William, Justice Depute, 177.
Hay, Sir Alexander, of Whitburgh, Clerk
Register, 795.
Alexander, Lord Fosterseat, 266, 383*,
389*, 436*, 610, 613, 628, 686, 700, 760.
Sir Alexander, Secretary, 42, 58, 60, 62,
65—67, 81, 142, 177, 184, 226, 264, 266,
294, 295, 326, 327, 330, 332, 349, 351,
357, 368, 372, 380, 381, 386, 394, 413,
428*, 446, 451, 473 ;— Letters to King
James, 293, 429; Missive to, 457.
Andrew, of the Chapel Royal, 723, 731.
Andrew, Servant to the Archbishop of
Glasgow, 399.
Lady Eleanor, Countess of Linlithgow,
464.
Sir George, Netherleiff and Kinfauns,
Clerk Register, afterwards Lord High Chan-
lellor, 496, 540, 558, 568, 605, 610, 613,
614, 653, 655, 656, 660, 661, 670, 673,
(177, 690, 692, 694, 700, 703, 709, 727,
736, 737, 7IH 712. 750, 752, 754, 756,
759, 760, 767, 770, 774, 777, 778, 780,
789, 811, S15, 826, 830, 837, 840;— Mis-
sives from King James, 768, 774.
George, Minister, 15, 483.
Sir James, of Kingask, 383*, 421*.
John, City Clerk of Edinburgh, 696, 743,
761,771,778,790.
— — John, Minister of Renfrew, 77, 105,
17.--, 254.
Robert, 299.
Dr Theodore, Archdcan of Glasgow,
490, 504.
Benderson, Patrick, Master of the Sang School,
and Header in Edinburgh, 393*-395*.
Henderson, Thomas, of Cheaters, Commissary
of Edinburgh, one of the Lords of Session,
646, 684, 685.
Henry Prince of Wales, 113.
Henryson, Alexauder, Minister of Leuehars.
272, 584.
Dr Edward, a Lord of Session, 685.
Malcolm, Ministerof Kilmadoek, 213.
Ilepburne, Edward, 483.
James, Earl of Bothwell, 604.
Hejeis, Lord, 29, 383*, 429, 430.
Robert, Minister of Drysdale, 504.
Hewat, Patrick, Minister of Edinburg
84, 120, 164, 105, 167, 229,210,417,421.
505, 530, 606, 608 ; Charge against, 605 ;
Letter to John Murray, 377, 452*.
Heygait, Archibald, Common Clerk of Glas-
gow, 211.
Robert, 386, 387, 389, 390, 391.
High Commissioner, Lord. See Hamilton, Mai -
quis of.
High Commission, removed from St Andrews
to Edinburgh, 437*.
Hog, Thomas, Minister of Dysart, 745, 747.
Holme, Lands of, 336.
Holyroodhouse, Abbey of, 458.
Palace of, 86, 820.
Holyroodhouse, John, Lord, 29, 88, 126, 140,
156, 178, 183, 212, 377*, 383*, 389*,
400*, 414*, 418*.
Home. See Hume.
Alexander Earl of, 269, 351 . 428-430,
461.
Alexander, Minister of Logie, 9.
Anna, 285.
David, of Godscroft, Letter from Bishop
of Galloway, 340, 393*, 394*.
Houstone, Sir John of that Ilk, Provost of
Glasgow ; — Letters from King James, L26,
! I'.', Kill; to King James, 127.
Howard, Admiral, 02.
Howie, Dr Robert, Principal of the New Col-
lege, St Andrews, 00, 118, 130, 243, 244,
256, 272, 276, 383*, 384*, 457*, 483, 490,
673;— Letter to King James. 99.
INDEX.
853
Hume, John, Letter to John Adamson, Mini-
ster of Libberton, G21.
Huntley, George Marquis of, 42, 80, 87, 146,
187, 192-195, 198, 213, 235, 243, 311, 321,
341, 351, 353*, 354*, 377, 432, 461, 471-
477, 484, 485, 487, 534 ; Missive to, 431.
Marchioness of, 353*.
John, Master of. See Gordon.
Hyde, Dr Alexander, Bishop of Sarum, 578.
Ln-chaffray, Abbey of, 829, 836.
Inglefield, 349.
Inglis, Mrs Esther, Letter to King James,
631.
James, Provost of Glasgow, 78, 209.
James, Councillor of Edinburgh, 761.
James, of St Andrews, 581.
James, Minister of Dailly, 279, 504.
Nathan, Minister of Cragie and Riccar-
ton, 30, 368*-370*, 432*.
Thonias, Skinner in Edinburgh, 624.
626.
Innernytie, Laird of, 181.
Innerteill. See Erskine, Sir George.
Innes, Alexander, Minister of Kinnedar, 438.
Ireland, Lord Deputy of, 394, 563 ;— Letter
from Privy Council, 427*.
Irish Language to be abolished, 812.
Irving, Presbytery of, 423*.
Irwing of Drum, 609.
James, Minister of Touch, 30, 368*-
370*.
Sir William, 609.
Islay, Isle of, 373, 375, 393, 394, 397, 398.
Lieutenant in, 398.
Isles, Bishop of. See Knox.
373, 393, 592.
James, King, the Second of Scotland, 411*.
the Third of Scotland, 336.
the Fourth of Scotland, 251 ;
founded Chapel Royal of Stirling, 717.
the Sixth of Scotland, Infor-
mation from Bishop of Orkney, 333 ; Let-
ters from Mr Andrew Aidie, Principal of
Marischal College, Aberdeen, 589 ; Arch-
bishops of St Andrews [George] 45, 53,
109, 117, 121, 128, 154, 203, 205, 213,
215, 218, 230, 245, 258, 263, 265, 266,
273, 274, 276, 287, 294, 297, 311, 329,
428 [John], 469*, 501, 554, 563, 579, 624,
655, 683, 707 ; Archbishop of Canterbury,
54, 117 ; Archbishop of Glasgow [John],
16, 24, 162, 179, 207, 235, 315, 364, 383,
385 [James] 563, 664, 707, 710; Arch-
bishops and Bishops, 47, 101, 108, 145, 185,
193, 197, 241, 341, 453, 522, 563, 652;
the Bishops, of Aberdeen [Peter], 103,
220, 309 [Patrick], 582, 633; of Ar-
gyll, 422 ; of Brechin, 212, 263 ; of Caith-
ness [Alexander], 45 [John], 526, 708 ;
of Dunblane, 715; of Dunkeld, 262; of
Durham, 111, 147; of Galloway [Gavin],
45, 96, 251 [William], 425, 466, 509, 558,
562, 563 ; of the Isles, 94, 152 ; of Murray,
18, 85, 220, 231, 264, 277, 304, 313, 463,
508, 591, 595, 601, 616, 650; of Orkney.
167, 200, 212, 267, 289. 323 ; of Ross, 43,
93, 110, 200, 219 ; the Earls of Abercorne,
103; of Angus, 452; of Caithness, 288,
401, 432 ; of Crawford, 465 ; of Dunferm-
line, 38, 50, 51, 366, 534 ; of Eglintoun, 444 ;
of Ki.nghorn, 441 ; of Melros, 31, 383, 411*,
447,*483, 506, 515, 519, 520, 573, 585,
588, 592, 593, 596, 598, 607, 656, 661,
C78, 709, 711; of Montrose, 56, 69, 75,
487 ; of Morton, 441 ; of Wigton, 34, 314 ;
the Countess of Linlithgow, 464 ; Lords
Balmerino, 359* ; Roxbuighe, 221 ; Spynie,
439, 465 ; James Bischop, Minister of In-
verness, 409 ; Andrew Boyd, Minister of
Eaglesham, 132; Robert Bruce, 19, 431*;
Samuel Cockburn of Temple, 308 ; William
Cowper, Minister of Perth, 302 ; Sir Alex-
ander Drummond of Medhope, 175 ; James
Duncanson, 8 ; Robert Dune, Minister of An-
struther, 156 ; John Forbes, 158, 478, 479 ;
Patrick Forbes of Corse, 227 ; Alexander
54
INDEX.
( iampbell, Minister, 234 ; Patrick Galloway,
27, 82, 511; Dr John Gordon, Dean of
Salisbury, 2.34 ; John Hall, Minister of Edin-
burgh, 22; .Sir Alexander Hay of Newton,
293, 429; Kobert Howye, Principal of the
New College, St Andrews, 99; Mrs Esther
[nglis, 631 ; John Johnston, Professor of
Divinity iu the University of St Andrews,
45 ; James Law of the Chapel Royal, 716,
724 ; Patrick Lindesay, Minister of St
Vigeans, 57 ; Sir Robert Melville of Murdo-
cairuey, 284; Sir Gideon Murray of Eli-
bank, 332, 337, 429, 559; John Murray,
Minister of Leith, 122; Sir Archibald
Napier, Treasurer Depute, 720 ; James
Nicolson, Minister of Meigle, 37 ; John
Prestoun of Fentonbarns, 1 84 ; Peter Rol-
lock of Piltoun, 223 ; John Scharp, Mini-
ster of Kilmany, 28 ; Sir John Skene of
Curriehill, 368 ; Sir Alexander Stratoun of
Laurieston, 10, 15, 17, 35; John Wemyss,
Commissary of St Andrews, 491; John
Young, Minister, 234; Sir Peter Young of
Seaton, 204; the Commissioners of Burghs,
L40 ; of the Kirk, 10, 36, 170 ; His Majes-
ty's Commissioners to the Assembly, 72;
the Dean and Prebendaries of the Chapel
Royal, 721 ; the Lords of Session, 225 ; the
Members of the General Assembly, 143;
the Members of the High Commission in
St Andrews, 242, 243 ; the Ministers of
Edinburgh, 119, 163, 164, 228; the Privy
Council, 70, 80, 87, 95, 124, 140, 177,
L82, 206, 285, 291, 330, 357, 358*, 495,
565, 623, 629, 668, 676, 693, 740, 748;
hi Bailies and Town Council of Glasgow, 76,
210; the Presbyteries of Edinburgh, 151,
L65; of Lanark, 113; of Stirling, 161; the
Provincial Assembly and Synod of Aberdeen,
14, 41; the Provost and Town Council of
Edinburgh, 74, 84, 106, 517,584; the Pro-
vost of Glasgow, 127 ; the Rector, Provost,
and Masters of the University of St An-
drews, 255, 271 ; Memorials presented to,
187; Memoirs to, 299; Oath of Allegiance
to, 488 ; Petitions of the Bishop of Murray
to, 305 :—
Letters to the Archbishops and Bishops, 542,
662 ; the Archbishop of Canterbury, 474 ;
of Glasgow, 282; of St Andrews, 471,
564, 620, 735 ; to the Chancellor, Rector, and
Professors of the University of St Andrews,
805; the Convention of Estates, 401*,
402*; the Duke of Lennox, 382*; the
Earl of Dunbar, 425* ; Lord Balmerino,
371*, 373* ; Lord Spynie, 455* ; the Lords
Auditors of Exchequer, 429* ; the Lord
Chancellor, 435*, 436*, 438*, 811, 823,
828 ; the Lords Commissioners of Benefices,
413*, 418*; John Cauldcleuch, Minister, 25,
86, 116; George Lindsay, Minister, 240; Sir
Andrew Murray ot 'Balvaird, 481 ; Sir David
Murray, 455* ; William Scott, Minister of
Cupar, 48; Sir John Skene of Curriehill.
Clerk Register, 239; the Members of the
General Assembly, 248, 568; the Bishops
and Ministers of Edinburgh, 496 ; the Pres-
byteries of Dunfermline, 67 ; Edinburgh, 1 ;
Tun-en", 236 ; the Provosts of Glasgow, 126,
142, 169 ; of St Andrews, 81 ; Missives from,
238, 506, 615 ; in favour of the Bishop
of the Isles, 467 ; to the Archbishops and
Bishops, 542, 662 ; the Archbishops of St
Andrews and Glasgow, 524, 525; Sir
George Hay of Kinfauns, 764, 768 ; tin-
Lord Chancellor, 651 ; the Privy Council,
353*-453*p<m/m,456*,540, 566, 567. 583,
594, 600, 613, 615, 618, 648, 671, 672,
674, 678, 680, 686, 694, 700, 771, 797,
800, 803, 811, 813, 817, 818, 823, 825,
827, 829, 832, 833, 835, 836, 837.
James, Dr William, Bishop of Durham, 36,
37 ; — Letters to King James, 111, 147.
Jamisone, William, Minister, 504.
Jarden, James, Minister atthe South Ferry, 215.
Jedburgh, Master of, 700, 760, 778, 780.
Presbytery of, 397*, 398* ;— Let-
ter from the Bishop of Orkney, 199.
INDEX.
855
Jegon, Dr John, Bishop of Norwich, 67.
Johnston, Archibald, 318.
George, Minister of Ancrum, 395*-
397*.
James, Baillie of Air, 281.
James, of that Ilk, 7(39.
John, Professor of Divinity in the
University of St Andrews, 256, 272, 420*,
439* ; — Letter to King James, 45.
Simeon, Minister of Annand, 504.
Justice, the Lord Chief, 32.
Clerk. See Cockburne, Sir John.
Depute, 680, 686.
William, Minister of Gargunnoek, 504.
Keckerman, Barth., Professor of Philosophy
at Dantzig, 589.
Keith, Alexander, Minister of Strabock, 504.
James, of the Chapel Royal, 719,
723.
Kirk of, 601.
Kellie, Thomas Earl of, 433. See Fentoun.
Kello, Bartholomew, 631, 632.
Elizabeth, 632.
Mrs Esther (Inglis), 631.
Mary, 632.
Samuel, 632.
Kenmore, John Viscount of, 449, note.
Kennedy, James, Bishop of St Andrews, 411*.
Kenyow, Margaret, 9.
Ker, Sir Andrew, 540, 576, 605, 607, 608,
610, 614, 628, 653, 815.
Edward, 761.
John, Minister of Preston, 504, 745, 747.
Sir Robert, of Cessford. See Roxburgh.
Kers, Laird of, younger, 390.
Keyth, Sir William, 827.
Kildrummie, Kirk of, 309.
Kildrymmie, Laird of, 628.
Killoss, (Bruce) Lord of, 94.
Kilmaurs, Lord, 357.
Kilrenny, Parish of, 669.
Kilspindie, Kirk of, 403.
Kilsyth, Lord. See Livingston.
Kilwinning, Abbey of, 362, 364, 366, 367,
443, 457.
King, Dr John, Bishop of London, 66, 478.
Mr James, 639.
Kinghorn, Patrick Earl of, 29, 71, 183, 243,
277, 305, 306, 313, 314, 383*, 443 ;— Let-
ter to King James, 441.
Kiunoul, Parson of, 300.
Kirk, Commissioners of the, Letter to King
James, 10.
Kirkonnell, Laird of (Maxwell), 348.
Kirkwall, Castle of, 363, 370, 378, 379, 380,
381, 382.
Kirkwood, Gilbert, Councillor of Edinburgh,
771, 778.
Knollis, Lord, 62.
Knox, Andrew, Minister of Paisley, Bishop of
the Isles, and of Raphoe, 11, 34, 36, 47, 93,
109, 140, 153, 155, 187, 196, 198, 206, 284,
400*, 403, 410, 427*, 457 ; Letters to King
James, 94, 152, 253 ; Lord Binning, 372 ;
John Murray, 393, 396, 397, 449 ; Missive
from King James in favour of, 467.
. John, 171, 172, 175.
Thomas, 374, 421, 435, 592.
William, Minister of Cockpen, 504.
Kynneir, David, Minister of Creich, 132.
Laik, Sir Thomas, 292 ; admitted a Privy
Councillor, 815.
Lamb, Andrew, Minister, Bishop of Brechin,
and of Galloway, 1, 37, 54, 55, 60, 93, 109,
117, 147, 171, 175, 196, 198, 241, 243, 244,
263, 270, 360*, 383*, 416*, 486, 496, 653,
717;— Letters to King James, 212, 263;
Archbishop of St Andrews, 731 ; John Mur-
ray of Lochmaben, 688, 733.
James, Minister of Bolton, 504.
Lambeth, Chapel of, 476, 485.
Lambie, Mr William, 272.
Lanark, Presbytery of, Letter to King James,
113.
Largo, Kirk of, 557.
Lauderdale, John Viscount of, 540, 501, 605,
S5G
IXDEX.
610, 614, 623, 670, 677, 686, 694, 730,
752, 756, 759, 767, 778, 780, 815, 82G,
530;— Letter to Viscount Annand, 730.
Laurie, .)., of the Chapel Royal, 723.
Lauriston, Laird of. See Stratoun.
Law, James, Minister of Kirkliston, Bishop of
Orkney, and Archbishop of Glasgow, 10, 13>
60, L45, 147, 171, 172, 187, 196, 198,241'
243, 244, 263, 266, 270, 284, 325, 334'
337, 343- 345, 357, 361, 383* 395*, 390*,
400, Hi'. H5, in;. 416* 429* 430* 432,
451*, 452, 454, 4G1, 4GG, 486-488, 51 0,
520, 523, 526, 528, 540, 545, 54S, 573,
57G, 597, 626-628, G53, 665, 670, 686,
687, G89, G93, G94, 703, 732, 7GG, 768,
801, 804, 809, 811, 825, 828; Information
to the King, 333; Letters to King Janus.
78, L09, KIT, 17.".. L91, L98, 200, 212, 267,
289, 323, 327, 372, 563, 707, 710 ; Lord
Binning, 369, 370, 378, 392; Robert Boyd
ofTrochrig, 692; the Lord Chancellor, 603 ;
Sir Gideon Murray, Treasurer Depute, 380,
457*; John Murray, 322, 359, 457, 693,
Tut ; the Presbytery of Jedburgh, 199; Mis-
sive from King James, 514.
James, of the Chapel Royal, 715, 723; —
Letters to King James, 716, 724, 824.
Laurestoun. See Stratoun.
Law -on, Richard, Bookseller in Edinburgh,
608, 624, 626, 817.
Layng, William, in Aberdeen, 706.
Lcich, Henry, Minister of Auehtermuchty, 274.
Andrew, 2 l-'l.
Leirmonth, Sir John, of Balcomie, Provost of
Si Andrews-, Letter from King James, 81.
l.eith, George, 876, -" i 7 7 .
John, of Harthffl, 431.
Mr William, .177.
Lennox, Ludovick Duke of, Lord Chamberlain,
25, 294, 103, 437, 194, 572 ;— Letter from
King James, 382*.
Leslie, George, of Aldcraig, 37C, 377, 431.
Leuchars, Parish of, 215.
Lewis, lslaml of, 382.
Lichtone, Matthew, Minister of Curric, 1G7.
Lincluden, Provostry of, 451.
Lindesay, or Lyndsay, Sir Alexander. See
Spynie.
Alexander, Bishop of Dunkeld, 117.
171, 172, 17."-, 191, 196, 198, 241, 263,
270, 374*, 415, G73; a Privy Councillor,
737, 738;— Letters to King James, 232,
202.
. Anna, 405.
Bernard, of Lochill, 219, 402, 714,
718; — Letter to Viscount Annand, 71 !.
Sir David, younger of Edzel, 195, 220,
201.
David, Minister of Leith, Bishop of
Ross, 1, 2, 29, 40, 43, 53, 71, 87, 89, 93,
156, 178, 187, 189, 190, 196, 207, 2G3;—
Letters to King James, 43, 93, 110, 200,
219.
David, successively Minister of S( An-
drews, Forgan. and Leith, 40, 81, 130, 190,
258, 368*, 386*, 387*, 400* 406*, 130*.
David, Minister of Dundee, Bishop oi
Brechin, 483, 571, 575, 57G, 007, 073, 681.
George, Minister of Roseneath, 797 i
Letter from King James, 240.
Sir Jeremy, of Annatland, 219, 386*.
Sir John, of Ballinscho, 27*.
John, Lord, 71, 73, 77.
Margaret, 4G5.
Patrick, Minister of Si Vigeans, Bishop
of Ross, 53, 54, 55, 212, 214, 240. 243,
244, 343, 34G, 427, 4G2, 508, 523, 526,
540, 545, 548, 614, 639, G40, 052, G53,
670, G80, 760, 788, 797 ; a Privy Council-
lor, 809, 815, 827;— Letters from Privy
Council, 831 ; and to King James. ,",7. -j\j
Rachel, 38G*.
Robert, 219, 243.
Sir Walter, of Balgawies, 195.
Linlithgow, Alexander Earl of, 29, 71, 1*3,
28G, 3G8*, 4G4, 540, 501, G72, 756, 778,
789.
Countess of. See Day.
INDEX.
857
Livingston, Alexander Lord, 535.
Sir James, 568.
Henry, Minister, 213, 375*, 504.
Sir William, of Kilsyth, 71, 226,
286, 383*, 385, 387, 420*, 523, 540, 561,
576, 610, 613, 614, 628, 667, 670, 6S0,
686, 703, 752, 756, 760, 778, 795, 809,
815, 822, 830.
William, Minister of Monyabroch,
afterwards of Lanark, 283, 387*
Lochinvar. See Gordon, Sir Robert.
Lochmaben, Minister of, 705.
Logie-Mar, Kirk of, 309.
Logy, 389*.
London, Bishop of. See King.
City of, 356.
Lothian, Robert Earl of, 29, 71, 88, 96, 126,
177, 178, 183, 286, 377*, 378*, 383*, 435*,
516, 540, 576, 598, 605, 610, 613, 614, 670,
700, 703, 795, 815.
Master of, 368*, 383*, 389*.
Loudoun, Lord, 279, 281.
Lowmonds of Falkland, 419.
Lummisdeu, Charles, Minister of Duddingston,
Clerk to the Presbytery of Edinburgh, 151,
167, 504.
Lundie, Sir James, of Lundie, Letter to King
James, 556.
Sir Robert, of Lundie, 556.
Lyoun, George, Councillor of Glasgow, 78.
M'Birnie, John, Minister of Ferry-Port-on-
Craig, 380* ; of Aberdeen, 380*.
Macdonald, Sir James, 819.
Macdowell, William, 272.
M'Duff, Alexander, Minister of Campvere,
328.
M'Gill, David," of Cranstoun-Riddell, 29,
368*.
M'Kane, Eupheme, 48.
M'Kenzie, Colin Lord, of Kintail, 383*.
M'Kie or M'Ky, William, a Priest, 377*, 378*.
M'Lean, Clan, 373.
Maclellan, Sir Robert, of Bombie, 458.
M'Leod of Harris, 373.
M'Naught, John, Bailie of Edinburgh, 790.
M'Ronald, Sir James, 398.
Old, 819.
Madertie, James Lord, 829.
John Lord, 829, 836.
Maircairney. See Wemyss.
Maison-Dieu, Preceptory of, beside Elgin, 616,
650.
Makbrayer, Robert, 408, 442*, 704.
Makcall, Mungo, Bailie of Edinburgh, So, 778.
Makculloch, James, of Drummorrell, 348, 411,
451.
Makgill, John, Commissary Clerk of Dumfries,
325.
Makkee, Sir Gilbert, a Priest, 86, 95.
Makmoran, Ninian, Bailie of Edinburgh, 75,
85, 107.
Malcolm, John, Minister of Perth, 261.
Mar, John Earl of, 126, 178, 183, 383*, 461,
495, 501, 510, 515, 516, 520, 535, 540,
558, 561, 571, 598, 614, 616, 628, 631,
649, 653, 670, 686, 687, 690, 694, 696,
700, 703, 710, 711, 720, 722, 723, 737,
741, 742, 750, 754, 756, 759, 760, 767,
770, 778, 780, 789, 815, 818, 825, 828,
830, 835, 840.
March, Stewartry of, 351.
Marischal, George Earl of, 29, 383* 634, 672,
760.
Marschell, Edward, 529, 530.
Martine, Andrew, 381, 392.
George, Regent at St Andrews, 256,
272.
James, Principal of St Salvator's Col-
lege, St Andrews, 243, 256, 272, 490, 806;—
Letter from King James, 116.
Mathieson, John, Clerk of Carrail, 816.
Matthew, Dr Tobias, Archbishop of York, 30,
67.
Maxwell, David, brother to Newark, 388.
Edward, of Hilles, 823, 824.
John Lord, 222 ; forfeited for trea-
son, 605.
5q
S.1S
INDEX.
Maxwell, John, Minister of Edinburgh, 712,
790.
John, of Kirkconnel, 409*-411*.
— Lady, 388.
— Sir Robert, 444*-445*.
May, Laird of, 3G9. See Sinclair.
Ma\ erne, or Mayzcme, Dr Theodore, physician
in London, 473.
Mayne, John, 390, 391.
Medhope. See Drummond.
Meigle, Kirk of, 154,233.
Meiklejohn, Robert, skinner. Edinburgh, (124,
626.
Meine, John, merchant, Edinburgh, 024, 626,
740, 741, 744, 828.
Melros, Thomas Hamilton, King's Advocate,
afterwards Secretary of State, Lord Binning,
and Earl of, 29, GO*, 64, 94, 119, 156, 178,
183,212, 226, 243,288, 289,295; (four-
teenth Bishop,) 306, 314, 316, 319, 323,
331, 332, 357*, 377*, 383*, 392*, 400*,
mi.-. 407*, 413*, 419*, 421*, 428*, 441*.
447*, 358, 362, 308, 383, 384, 400, 44G,
450, 451, 462, 463, 494, 496, 516, 523,
526, 540, 558, 561, 562, 605, 607, G10,
613, 614, 628-631, 653, 656, 668, 670,
677, 079. 686, 090, 094, 700, 703, 704,
713, 719, 741, 742. 750, 752, 754, 756,
759, 700, 770, 777, 778, 780, 789, 791,
795, 809, 815, 816, 821, 826, 828, 835;
author of a Declaration against the Mini-
sters imprisoned for High Treason, 363*;
Letters from King James, 406* ; to King
.lames, 411*; Letters from the Bishop of
< h-kney, 369, 392 ; William Struthers, one
of the Ministers of Edinburgh, 642 ; to King
James, 383, 447, 486, 500, 512, 519, 520,
573, 585, 588, 592, 593, 596, 598, 607,
656, 661, 678, 709, 711; John Murray,
148, 102, HI, 414, 415, 168.
Melville, Sir Andrew, 452.*
Andrew, Provost of the New College,
-; Andrews, 54, 59, 62-64, 07, 100,118,
282, 384*, 385', 157*. 621, 622, 807.
Melville, Ephraim, Minister of I'ittenweeni.
246, 217. 682.
James, 59, 60, 61, 64-67, 261.
Patrick, Professor of Hebrew, New
College, St Andrew s, 256, 272. 28 1 . 282,491 '.
Sir Robert, of Monimail, Treasure!
Depute, 29, 71, 81, 368*, 383*, 389*, 815 ;
— Letter to King James, 284.
Sir Robert, younger. See Brunt-
island, Lord.
William, Commendator of Tongland,
226, 297-299.
Memorials proposed to his Majesty, 187. 25'.'.
Menteith, William, 388-391.
Menyees, Sir Thomas, Provost of Aberdeen,
816.
Merchiston. See Napier.
Mernis, David, Minister of Carnbec, 621.
Merser, John, Minister of Logybryde, 504.
Michelson, David, Bailie of Edinburgh. 584,
778.
, John, Minister of Burntisland, 24.'i.
436, 483.
Ministers, Protestation of, for the liberties ..t
the Kirk, 501.
Ministry, Reformation of the, 0.
Minne. See Meine.
Mitchell. Adam, Minister, 129, 132.
David, Bailie of Edinburgh, 761.
Thomas, Minister of Udney, Letters
from the Archbishop of St Andrews. 550,
55o ; Patrick Forbes of Corse, 551, 552.
Mofiat, James, a Papist, 400, 437, 440. I 18,
795, 796.
Moncreiff, Archibald, Minister of Abemethj .
453, 454.
Monipenny, Jean, 329.
"— John, 330.
of Pilrig, 329.
Monkton, place of, 390.
Monro, John, Minister of Fearn, 831.
John, Minister of Tayne, 30, 368*-
370*, 373*, 425*, 426*; Charge against.
373*.
INDEX.
859
Montague, Dr, Dean of his Majesty's Chapel,
60.
Monteith, Eobert, of Egilschaw, 382.
Montgomery, Dr George, Bishop of Meath,
374, 589.
, Robert, of Giffen, 281.
Montrose, John, Earls of, 41, 71, 73, 81, 177,
243, 354*, 481, 486, 815 ;— Instructions
to, 481 ; Letters to King James, 56, 69, 75,
101, 487, 520, 522, 672.
Lady, 473.
Monypennie, David, 243, 256, 272.
Moore, Robert, Minister, 213.
Moray. See Murray.
Morton, William, Earl of, 277, 305, 306, 313,
314, 682, 683, 686, 690, 700, 703, 756,
759, 760, 767, 780, 789 ;— Letter to King
James, 441.
Dr Thomas, Bishop of Chester, 577.
Mortymer, George, a Jesuit, 680, 693-695.
Mouswald, Kirk of, 798.
Mow, Henry, 718.
Muir, George, Bailie of Glasgow, 209.
, Thomas, Bailie of Glasgow, 78.
Murdo, William, a Priest, 378.
Murdocairnie. See Melville.
Mureheid, James, Minister of North Leith, 167.
Murray, Bishoprick of, 456*.
Sir Andrew, of Balvaird, 412, 414,
416 ; — Letters from William Creichton, Je-
suit, 180 ; King James, 481 ; to John Mur-
ray of Lochmaben, 418.
Andrew (afterwards Lord Balvaird),
Minister of Abdie, 683.
Bishop of. See Douglas. Guthrie.
Sir David, of Gosperty, afterwards
Lord Scone, 455*. See Stormont.
Sir David, of Gorthie, 62.
David, 420.
James Earl of, 213, 509, 789.
Sir Gideon, of Elibank, Treasurer -
523, 540, 558, 561, 562, 568, 571, 572,
576, 581, 605, 610, 614, 628, 631, 649,
735, S09, 820 ;— Letters from the Bishop of
Orkney, 380, 457* ; to King James, 332, 337,
429, 559 ; Missive from King James, 467.
Murray, John, of Lochmaben and Dundren-
nan, Gentleman of his Majesty's Bedcham-
ber, Viscount of ^Annand, and Earl of
Annandale, 222, 316, 317, 326, 327, 330,
342, 385, 425, 435, 442*, 466, 472, 509,
564 ; Letters from — Archbishops and Bi-
shops, 343 ; Archbishops of St Andrews
[Gladstanes], 296, 299, 350, 354, 363,
376, 447*, [Spottiswood], 442*, 444*, 454,
458, 460, 461, 580, 643, 645, 649, 681 , 684,
687, 689, 695, 713, 727, 728, 735, 756, 769;
of Glasgow [Spottiswood], 351, 361, 365,
399, 417, [Law], 457, 460, 693, 704;
Bishops of Caithness, 296, 407, 484; of
Dunblane, 470, 725, 738; of Galloway
[Hamilton], 395, 451, 454, 459, 468, 571,
[Lamb], 688, 733 ; of the Isles, 393, 396,
397, 449 ; of Orkney, 322, 359, 378 ; Lords
Binning, 348, 402, 411, 414, 415, [Earl
of Melros], 685; Lord Sanquhar, 418; Vis-
count Lauderdale, 730 ; the Earl of Dun-
fermline, 349, 367, 413, 423, 436, 593,
646 ; Bernard Lyndsay of Lochill, 714 ; Mr
Peter Hewat, 377, 452* ; Mr William Mur-
ray, 405; Mr Thomas Ramsay, 408; Mr
Walter Wheitfurde, 732; Rector and Profes-
sors of the University of St Andrews, 489 ;
— to the Earl of Dunfermline, 355.
John, Minister of Leith, afterwards
of Dunfermline, 124, 171, 189, 190, 391*-
395*, 404* 405*, 745, 747, 748 ;— Letter
to King James, 122.
John, Minister of Strathmiglo, 403.
Patrick, of Woodend, 406.
Robert, Minister of Methven, 270, 274,
Depute, 306, 309, 312, 324, 327, 330, 333,
334, 341, 345, 351, 357, 362, 394, 397*,
398*, 400, 446, 463, 472, 486, 496, 516,
403, 504.
Robert, Commissary of Stirling, 469.
Thomas, Provost of Eton College, 404,
406, 417, 419, 421.
860
INDEX.
Mm ray, William, Minister of Dysart, 400, 412-
415, 417, 420, 421;— Letter to John Murray
of Lochmaben, 405.
Sir William, 735.
William, Minister of Crail, 230, 699.
Mrs, [afterwards Countess of Annan-
dale], 397.
William, 747, 748.
Musehet, Laird of, 213.
Mynto, Laird of [Stewart], 387.
Myrecairnie. See Wemyss.
Napier, Sir Archibald, of Merehiston, Trea-
surer Depute, 516, 540, 610, 628, 670,
677, 700, 703, 712, 724, 752, 756, 759,
760, 778, 780, 826, 830 ;— Letter to King
James, 720.
New Abbey, Abbey of, 445.
Newbottle, Lord. See Lothian.
Newton, Laird of. See Hay.
Nicolson, James, Minister of Meigle, Bishop
of Dunkeld, 35, 36, 54, 60, 64, 71, 98,
102, 103, 119, 233, 359*, 360*, 368*, 416*;
— Letter to King James, 37.
Thomas, ill.
Nisbet, James, Bailie of Edinburgh, 75, 85,
107.
Sir William, Provost of Edinburgh, 519,
584.
Nithsdale, Robert Lord, 653, 670, 737.
Oath of Allegiance, 488* ; taken by Archbi-
shops, of St Andrews and Glasgow, 408*,
801, 802.
Obenzie (Aubigny), Lord of, 94.
( (chiltree, Andrew, Lord Stewart, Lieutenant
to his Majesty, 71, 152, 183, 383*, 576, 602.
Odochertie, 375.
< >_'. Angus, 375.
( )'_ril\ie, Francis, 081.
George, 678.
John, a Jesuit, 385, 387, 389, 407,
424, 796.
Sir John, of Craig, 260, 209, 678, 681.
Oliphant, Sir William, Lord Advocate, 'J'.)~.
312, 3i4, 323, 330-332, 358, 362, 386,
434, 446, 496, 509, 516, 523, 540, 558,
561, 562, 568, 576, 605, 610, 611, 613,
614, 616, 628, 631, 666, 668, 670, 677,
678, 686, 690, 700, 703, 719, 741, 742,
750, 752-756, 759, 760, 767, 777, 780,
795-797, 805, 809, 811, 815, 826-830.
Orkney, Bishop of. See Graham. Law.
Bishoprick of, 334, 344; Rem- ■■;
Lands designed to, 340.
Lord Lieutenant of, 379.
Patrick, Earl of, 60, 71, 78, 7!», His.
267, 268, 289, 290, 323, 334, 336, 337,
341, 345, 359, 360.
Sub-Chanter of, 334.
Osburn, John, Provost of Ayr, 281.
Pacenius, Bartolus, 590.
Papists, Proclamation against, 367*.
Paterson, George, 468.
Isaac, Minister at Anwoth, 468.
a Priest, 409*, 410*.
Paton, James, Bishop of Dunkeld, 224.
Peirsone, Alexander, Bailie of Edinburgh.
519.
Pembroke, William Earl of, 815 ; admitted a
Privy Councillor, 815.
Perth, John, Earl of, 174, 178, 426*, 435*,
535, 653, 694, 778, 780, 789.
Perth, Magistrates of, Letter from the Arch-
bishop of St Andrews, 328.
Five Articles of Perth Assembly, rati
tied, 658.
Presbytery of, 374*.
Synod at," 374*, 375*.
Peterkin, Alexander, 333.
Pharum. See Forme.
Philip, Dr Henry, Minister of Arbroath, 243,
483, 490, 575, 576, 673.
Robert, 704.
Phillipps, Sir Edward, 111, 147, 148.
Pitcairn, James, 27 1.
Polmaise, Laird of, 213.
INDEX.
861
Polwart, Andrew, Minister, 675.
Pope of Rome, 448 ; Alexander VI., 717,
721 ; Honorius III., 514 ; Innocent III.,
514 ; Julius, 717.
Popery, Orders for repressing, 636.
Porteous, James, Minister at Lasswade, 504,
529.
President of the Session, Lord. See Balme-
rinoch. Prestoun.
Prestoun, John, of Fentonbarns, Lord Presi-
dent of the College of Justice, 73, 81, 88,
96, 126, 140, 156, 178, 212, 226, 243,
263, 265, 273, 282, 293, 314, 317, 331,
332, 357, 362, 377*, 400*, 414*, 416*,
418*-421*, 428*, 434, 436*, 494, 509,
795 ; — Letter to King James, 184.
Primate, Lord, of Ireland, 478. See Hamp-
toun.
Primrose, Archibald, Clerk of the Privy Coun-
cil, 334, 689, 695, 697.
Privy Seal. See Cockburne.
Protestation of Ministers for the Liberties of
the Kirk, 501.
Pryde, George, Minister of Hutton and Covrie,
769.
Prymrois, James, 804.
Prymrose, Gilbert, Minister at Bourdeaux,
101 ; nominated for Edinburgh, 74.
Purves, Andrew, Bailie of Edinburgh, 777,
790.
Quelly, Jaqueline de, 604.
Quhithorne, Priory of, 820.
Quhitterne, Abbey of. See Whithorn.
Quhittinghame. See Douglas.
Quhyteford. See Wheitfurde.
Rait, David, Dean of Aberdeen, 15, 554.
Ramsay, Andrew, Minister of Edinburgh, 504,
505, 598, 599, 673, 679, 711, 744, 790.
D., of Balmain, 243.
Thomas, Minister of Dumfries, Letter
to John Murray of his Majesty's Bedcham-
ber, 408.
Raphoe, Bishop of. See Knox.
Ranfurlie, Laird of (Knox,) 373, 374.
Ratter, Laird of, 369.
Redhouse. See Hamilton.
Reid, John, Minister of Logie-Buchan, 483.
Robert, Synod Clerk of Aberdeen, 15,
43.
Restennot, Priory of, 719.
Richardson, David, Bailie of Edinburgh, 519,
530.
■ James, 371.
Richmond, Ludovick, Duke of, 829.
Rig, William, merchant, and Bailie of Edin-
burgh, 624, 626, 630, 740-742, 748-750,
752-755, 767, 773, 776, 779, 780, 828 ;
Warrand to, 775, 779,
Ritchie, John, Councillor of Glasgow, 78.
Walter, 379, 381.
Robertson, James, Minister of Dundee, 504.
Rochester, Robert, Viscount of, 447* ; a Privy
Councillor, 447*.
Rogers, David, Minister of Dalgamo and St
Mungo, 704.
Rollock, Peter, of Piltoun, Bishop of Dunkeld,
one of the Lords of Session, 11, 29, 178,
183, 224-226, 359*, 368*, 540, 561, <;0.">.
610, 614, 670, 700, 703, 804, 805, 809,
815 ;— Letter to King James, 223.
Ross, Archibald, Clerk of Dalkeith, 530.
Bishop of. See Lindesay, David and
Patrick.
James, 15, 61.
John, Minister, 29, 30, 368*-370*.
John, of Craigie, 563.
Robert, 723.
Thomas, Minister of Cargill, 563, 564.
Rothes, Andrew Earl of, 501.
Rough, Robert, Minister of Inverkeithing,
504.
Row, James, Minister of Kilspindie, 404.
William, Minister of Forgandenny, 375*.
453*.
Rowat, Alexander, Minister of Cadder, 675.
, Robert, Bailie of Glasgow, 78.
802
INDEX.
Roxburghe, Sir Robert, of Cessford, Earl of,
I 78, 222, 319, 362, 383*, 395, 426*, 540,
628, 631 653, 672, 694, 759, 760, 767,
778, 780, 789, 815, 826, 835 ;— Letter to
King James, 221.
Rutherford, John, Minister of Dairsie, 271.
Robert, 167.
liuthven, Laird of, 558.
Rynd, James, 425.
Robert, Minister of Longforgan, 403,
425.
St Andrews, Archbishops of. See Gladstanes.
Kennedy. Spottiswood.
Cokquet of, 412*, 418*.
New College of, 457*, 483, 672,
673, 770.
Presbytery of, Letter from Privy
Council, 419*.
Priory of, 215, 332, 419*.
the Province of, Letters to King
James from the members of the High Com-
mission in, 242, 243.
Provost of, 247.
University of, 271, 420*, 421*,
456* ; Articles concerning, 807 ; Letter from
Rector and Professors of, to John Murray,
189.
Chancellor of, Letter from King
James, 805.
Commissioners for visiting, Letter
to the Rector and Masters, 420"
■ Rector and Masters of, Letter from
i lommissioners for visiting, 420."
SI < '"line, Abbey of, 262, 263.
Lord, 263.
St Mungo, Parish of, 704.
81 ( Mais, Parish of, 336.
Salisbury, Robert Earl of, (12.
Saltoun, John Lord, 183, 383*.
Saudis, Patrick, Principal of the University
of Edinburgh, 697.
Sanquhar, Lord. See Ayr.
Saville, Sir George, 664.
Scalpa-aill, power of, 381.
Scharp, John, Minister of Kilmany, 29, 129,
354 ; — Letter to King James, 28.
Schevez, James, 255, 272.
Schilders, Richard, printer to the States of
Zealand, 608.
Schools to be established in every Parish.
812.
Reformation of, 7.
Scone, David Lord. See Stormont.
Scot, James, 300.
Scott, Sir John, 686, 700, 777.
Robert, Minister of Glasgow, 254, 483,
504.
William, Minister of Cupar, 59, 64, 67,
98, 99, 171, 172, 175, 453*, 483, 504, 575,
584, 621 ;— Letter from King James, 48.
— William, 718.
Scrymgeour, Alexander, Minister of Irvine.
424*.
John, Minister of Kinghorn, 385 ' •
386*, 453*, 504.
Seatoun, Sir Alexander, 352, 364.
House of, 536.
James, Minister of Logie-Buchau, til.
Secretary. See Balmerinoch. Hamilton. Hay.
Sempill, Bryce, 397.
Sir James, of Beltrees, 296 ; — Letters
from the Archbishop of Glasgow, 279: Dr
Peter Bruce, Principal of St Leonard's Col-
lege, St Andrews, 300.
Service-Book, Reformation of the, 5.
Session, Lords of Council and, Letter to King
James, 225.
Setone, James, a Priest, 42.
Setoun, George Earl of, 257.
Dame Margaret, Lady Paisley, 257 ; —
Letter to the Queen, 257.
Sharpe, John, Schoolmaster in Salisbury, 254.
Patrick, Principal of the College of
Glasgow, 11, 12, 60, 254.
Shaw, Patrick, Minister of Selkirk, 504.
Sicklcmore, a Priest, 149.
Silver-Mine, 392*.
INDEX.
863
Simmer, George, Minister of Kilspiudie, 403.
Simpsoun, William, Minister at Dumbarton,
75, 105.
Simsone, Adam, Minister, 504.
Aleson, 325.
Simsoun, Alexander, Minister of Mertoun, 653-
655, 669, 670.
George, 761.
William, merchant in Edinburgh, 740,
741, 744, 750, 768, 776.
Sinclair, Andrew, 718.
Sir Andrew, 355.
Edmond, 336.
William, 447, 448.
William, younger of May, 392.
Skene, Alexander, 368, 384.
Sir James, of Curriehill, 316-320, 516,
540, 608-613, 670, 756, 777, 780, 809.
Sir John, of Curriehill, Clerk Register,
71, 73, 96, 156, 212, 226, 231, 235, 320,
324, 332, 333, 362, 368, 383*, 414*-423*,
815 ; — Letters from King James, 239 ; to
King James, 368.
John, 316-319, 368, 383.
Skrymgeour, Sir James, 29.
Smellome, George, 219.
Smith, John, Minister of Maxton, 504.
Smyth, ane Coinzear, 287.
Somerset, Robert Earl of, Treasurer, 322,
324, 331, 345, 354, 359, 362, 369, 379,
380, 386, 393, 419, 420.
Somerset House, 355.
Somervill, Patrick, Bailie of Edinburgh, 761.
Sonsie, Luke, Minister of Carrington, 504.
South Ferry, Parish and Kirk of, 215, 218.
Spain, King of, 355.
Speir, Alexander, 761.
William, Merchant in Edinburgh, 74,
84.
Spiller, Sir Henry, 637.
Spot, (Douglas of) a Privy Councillor, 383*.
Spottiswood, James, Bishop of Clogher, 647.
John, Superintendent of Lo-
thian, 529, 530.
Spottiswood, John, Archbishop of Glasgow and
St Andrews, 25, 60, 61, 75, 77, 103,
104, 109, 127, 145, 147, 177, 187, 190,
191, 196, 198, 213, 214, 219, 220, 225,
234, 241, 242, 254, 262-266, 274, 275,
277, 284, 293, 295, 296, 299, 316, 325,
343, 346, 348, 349, 366-368, 383, 383*,
386*, 387, 396, 403, 407,* 411*, 412, 415,
416, 416*, 422*, 424, 425*, 426*, 432,
432*, 435*, 436*, 437, 439*, 441*, 443,
445*, 447, 451, 452, 454, 457, 458, 464,
466, 468, 469, 472, 473, 475, 484-488,
495, 496, 501, 505, 508, 516, 519, 520-
523, 526, 528-530, 532, 540, 545, 552,
553, 573-576, 586, 588, 590, 592, 596,
597, 608, 618, 620, 625-628, 639, 640,
646, 653, 656, 660, 664, 670, 673, 686,
690, 700, 701, 703, 711, 713, 714, 730,
734, 741, 742, 766, 770, 773, 775, 777,
779, 780, 789, 795-801, 804, 809, 815,
817, 821, 828, 830, 837, 839; Letters
from the Archbishop of Canterbury, 476 ;
Andrew Boyd, 303 ; Andrew Duncan,
698 ; Bishop of Galloway, 731, 733 ; King
James, 471, 564, 735, 820; the Privy
Council, 832, 834 ; to Robert Boyd, 697 ;
King Charles, 788 ; Andrew Duncan, 700 ;
the Bishop of Galloway, 190 ; the Presby-
tery of Haddington, 667 ; King James, 12,
24, 179, 191, 207, 235, 311, 315, 383, 385,
469, 501, 554, 563, 579, 620, 624, 655,
683; Thomas Mitchell, 550, 555; John
Murray, 351, 361, 365, 417, 420, 441*,
444*, 454, 458, 460, 461, 580, 643, 645,
649, 681, 684, 687, 689, 695, 713, 727,
728, 735, 756, 769 ; Sir James Sempill,
279 ; Act in favour of, 410* ; Commission
to, 407* ; Missives to, 438, -524, 525.
Sir Robert, of New Abbey, 701 »,
703, 760, 777, 780.
Spynie, Alexander Lord, 18, 195, 277, 304-
306, 308, 313, 314, 439, 442, 455*, 456*,
463, 465, 591 ;— Letters to King James,
439, 465.
Mil
INDEX.
Stafferton, a Priest, 111.
Steill, John, 262, 2G3.
Steuart, Captain, 394.
Echvard, 33C.
Lady Elizabeth, daughter of King
James, afterwards Queen of Bohemia, 293.
Francis Earl of Bothwell, 351, 604.
Hercules, G03, G04.
James, 388, 389.
James, Minister at Saline, 68.
James, brother to the Earl of Orkney.
289.
Sir James, of Killeith, 319, 340, 345,
360, 362, 382.
James, " of Jerusalem," 448* ; con-
victed for hearing Mass, 448*, 798, 799;
Act ancnt, 799.
Jane, daughter of King James IV., 251.
Lord John, Commendator of Colding-
ham, 604.
Sir John, 395.
Margaret, 604.
Sir Robert, of Shillinglaw, 816.
Robert, son to the Earl of Orkney,
289, 360, 363, 381.
Robert, Minister in Orkney, 379.
Simeon, 392.
Walter, 77.
Stirling, Magistrates of, 213.
Presbytery of, letter to King James, 161
Stormont, David, Lord Scone, Viscount of,
71, 81, 88, 93, 98, 99, 130, 140, 211
2 1.:. 286, 293, 302, 366*, 375, 375*, 383*
388*, 402, 412, 414, 414*, 416, 417*
418*, 421*, 426*, 435, 454, 455, 540, 568
.-.70, 620, 631, 653, 662, 672, 683, 770
— Letter from the Lords Commissioners of
Benefices, 41?*.
Strachan. See Strathauohan.
Alexander, of Thornton, 816.
John. Minister ofKincardin O "Neil, 243.
Straitoun, Sir Alexander, of Laurestoun, -'ii.
Hi; — Letters to King .lames, 10, 15,17,35,
6 , .v.r, 357*, 8 -
Straitoun, John, Minister of Forres, 265.
Strang, Dr John, Minister of Errol, 272, 490.
Strathauchan, John, Moderator of the Synod
of Aberdeen, 43.
Strauchane, Alexander, Minister at Creieh,
28, 129.
Stromness, Parish of, 334.
Struther, or Struthers, William, Minister of
Edinburgh, 504, 505, 592, 599, 679, 709,
712, 731, 742, 744, 790;— Letter to the
Earl of Melros, 642.
Suche (Zouch), Edward Lord, 815; admitted
a Privy Councillor, 815.
Suffolk, Thomas Earl of, 62, 285.
Sutcliffe, Dr, 514, 558,
Sutherland, John Earl of, 174, 287, 288,
352, 820.
William, of Duffus, Keeper of the
Rolls, 305, 306.
Suttie, George, Treasurer of Edinburgh, 778.
Sydserf, Thomas, Minister of Edinburgh, 27 •">,
' 504, 599, 640, 790.
Symmer of Balzerdie, 474.
David, Merchant in Edinburgh, 307.
439, 441.
Robert, 474.
Syiusone, Archibald, Minister of Dalkeith,
504, 531 ; his Apologetiek against a false
Palinode, 527; Letter to the Court of High
Commission, 505.
Patrick, Minister of Stirling, 145,
102, 171, 172, 175, 185, 195,213,500;
— Letters from the Bishop of Galloway,
499; to the Commissioners of the General
Assembly, 192.
William, 839.
Taym:, Provost and Bailies of, Letter from
King James, 425*.
Thomson, Alexander, 254.
George, Minister of Kilmany, 354.
James, Minister of Hailles, 151 .
James, Minister of Kilmany, 35 I.
Richard, Minister of Ratho, 11.
INDEX.
865
Thomborough, Dr John, Bishop of Bristol, 35,
36, 359*.
Thurso, Harbour of, 382.
Tilenus, Daniel, of Silesia, 622, 705.
Tilliebardin, Laird of, 118, 540, 653.
Tod, Archibald, Bailie of Edinburgh, 777, 790.
Tongland, Abbey of, 299, 559, 427*, 820.
Cornmendator of [William Melvill],
383*. See Melvill.
Torphichen, James Lord, a Privy Councillor,
156, 178, 383*, 400*, 420*.
Treasurer, Lord. See Dunbar. Mar. Somer-
set.
Treasurer-Depute. See Arnot. Melvill.
Murray. Napier.
Troup, "Walter, of the Chapel Boyal, 723.
Trumble, Matthew, Bailie of Glasgow, 78,
209.
Tullibardine, John Earl of, 829.
William Earl of, 815, 829.
TuUideff, Stephen, of the Chapel Boyal, 723.
Turnett, Patrick, Minister of Borthwick, 457*.
Twynholm, Patronage of, 458.
Tyrie, Captain Thomas, 260, 269, 276.
Udwakt, Nicol, Councillor of Edinburgh, 778.
Ulster, Province of, 394.
Vaison, Bishop of. See Cheisholme.
Vaughan, Dr Eichard, Bishop of London, 67.
Vaus, Sir John, of Barnbarroch, 816.
Vchiltrie, Lord. See Ochiltree.
Vedderburn. See Wedderburn.
Wachane, Captain, 394.
Walden, Lord, 285.
Wales, Charles Prince of, 405.
Walker, Marion, 388-391.
Walkinshaw, Patrick, Minister, 77.
Wallace, John, of Corsflat, 390, 391.
Michael, Minister of Kilmarnock, 504.
Robert, Minister of Tranent, 40, 67,
102.
Wardlaw, Sir Henry, 282, 334.
Warrants for admitting a Privy Councillor,
816; apprehending James Stewart, 448*;
holding Assembly at Aberdeen, 810 ; open-
ing Mr Andrew Melvill's Chalmer, 384*.
Watson, Humphrey, of the Chapel Royal, 723.
John, of the Chapel Royal, 723.
Thomas, Burgess of Edinburgh, 291.
William, Minister of Edinburgh, after-
wards of Burntisland and Markinch, 67,
273, 433* 434-436, 453*, 801.
Wchiltrie. See Ochiltrie.
Wedderburn, Alexander, Clerk of Dundee,
816.
Wedderburne, William, Regent in St Sal-
vator's College, St Andrews, 244, 255, 250,
263.
Weir, Robert, of the Chapel Royal, 723.
Thomas, Councillor of Glasgow, 761,
778.
Weland, James, of the Chapel Royal, 723.
Welsch, Mr John, Minister at Ayr, 29, 31 ;
— Letter to Mr Robert Bruce, 619.
Wemis. See Wemyss.
Wemyss, Andrew, of Myrecairnie, 226, 420*,
493.
James, 272.
John, of Craigton, Rector of the Uni-
versity of St Andrews, 243, 269, 272, 276,
297, 298, 421*, 433*, 649, 651, 670, 673,
677, 700, 728, 729;— Letters to King James,
491 ; John Murray of Lochmaben, 494.
John, Minister of Kynnaird, 504.
William, Minister, 504.
Westminster, Dean of, 59.
Wharton, Lord, 577.
Wheitfurde, Walter, Minister of Moffat, 504,
705, 735 ; — Letter to Viscount Annand,
734.
Whitehall, Palace of, 356.
Whithorn, Abbey of, 299, 395, 559, 733.
Wliittingham. See Douglas.
Wigtoun, John Earl of, 60, 69, 71, 177, 183,
387, 540, 561, 598, 611, 653, 680, 718,
789 ;— Letters to King James, 34, 314.
5 R
866
INDEX.
Wilkie, Robert, 447.
Robert, Professor, of St Andrews, 243,
256, 452.
William, King of Scotland, 556, 557.
Williamson, Gilbert, 761.
Winrame or Winrahame, Robert, 392.
Wintoun, George Earl of, 19G, 383*, 420»,
540, 561, 598, 610, 614, 653, 670, 686,
694, 700, 703, 778, 780, 789, 815.
Wischart, William, Parson of Fettercairn,
736.
Wood, Andrew, of Largo, 557.
Sir John, of Balbegno, 736.
Wren, Sir Charles, 149.
Wvlie. William, Writer in Edinburgh, 675.
Wvnram, Robert, of the Chapel Royal, 723.
Y\KMot.Tii, King of Denmark landed at,
356.
York, Archbishop of [Matthew Hutton], 204,
205 [John Piers], 359*. See Matthew.
Arehbishoprick of, 35.
Deanery of, 359*.
Young, James, of Queen's College, Oxford,
578.
Dr John, Dean of Winchester, 489,
490, 554, 571, 577-581, 588, 656, 662,
806 ;— Letter to Robert Boyd of Trochrig.
577.
John, Minister of Beith, 205, 577, 605,
610, 614, 628, 686, 760, 424*, 432* ;— Let-
ter to King James, 234.
Sir Peter, of Seaton, 389*, 809 ;— Let-
ter to King James, 204.
Youngson, Robert, Minister of Clatt, 368*-
370*.
Yule, Alexander, Master of the Grammar
School of Stirling, 563.
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