this point made answer That the Secretary could claim no benefit by the Abstinence seeing he was the Kings subject and stood to the defence of the Kings cause both in England and Scotland professing himself as much displeased with the Proclamation of the Queens authority as any man else And howbeit of late he had accompanied the contrary faction yet he never declined his subjection to the King That being required to attend his office he had refused whereupon the same was justly taken from him and for the confiscation complained if he would yet declare on what side he was he should be reasonably used The Secretary who had often changed his party finding that now he must declare himself on the one side or the other sent to the Earl of Sussex this answer That he did think it strange the Regent should enquire on which side he was seeing his speeches writings and actions had declared the same Always now he would plainly professe that he was not of the Lord Regents side nor would he acknowledge him for Regent That he was of that side which would perform their duties to the Queen of Scotland and to her son so as neither of them should have cause to find fault with him that he was of that side which wished to either of them the place which in reason and justice they ought to possesse and that he was of that side which requested the Queen of England to enter into good conditions with the Queen whereby Scotland might be brought in an union and she restored to her liberty and Realm He confessed that he did not allow of the proclaiming of the Queens authority nor of the Parliament indited by those of he part because he foresaw the same would impede the Treaty betwixt the two Queens and might do hurt many ways and hinder the good he was about to do But that would not inser an allowance of their doings And this he said might give the Regent to understand on what side he was This answer neither expressing a reason of his falling away from the Kings obedience nor discovering plainly as was desired of what side he should be esteemed being delivered to the Regent received this reply That it was no marvel he should not acknowledge him for Regent having deserved so ill at his hands and being attainted of the soul and cruel murther of his son the Kings father That his Declaration did not satisfy that which was demanded for where he made a shew to observe a duty both to the Queen and to her son and would have it appear that he was about the effecting of great matters the duties he had done to either of them were well enough known neither could any man look for any good to proceed from him Therefore howsoever he had against his promise and subscription declined from the Kings party he must still be subject to answer such particulars as should be laid against him in the Kings name And seeing it was neither her Majesties meaning that any person guilty of the Kings murther should enjoy benefit by the Abstinence he that was challenged thereof in the late Regents time and had in Councel offered himself to the severest trial that could be taken could not complain of the breach of Abstinence for any thing done or intended against him But that neither this particular nor any other should be an occasion to dissolove that Treaty begun he said that he was content the notes of all injuries alledged on either side should be delivered in writing to the Earl of Sussex and the trial or redresse thereof continued till it should appear what effect the Treaty brought forth The prorogation of the Abstinence in the mean time as was desired by the Queen of England was yielded unto and subscrived the fourth of November with this provision That the goods and the ships of the Scottish Merchants arrested at that time in France should be released and no stay made of such as should happen to repair thither during the time of the Abstinence Whilest these things were debating the copy of the Articles proponed by the Commissioners of England to the Queen of Scots for the surety of the Queen were sent to the Lords of her faction to be considered which were as followeth 1. That the Treaty at Leth should be confirmed and that she should not claim any right nor pretend title to the Crown of England during the life of Queen Elizabeth 2. That she should not renew nor keep any League with any Prince against England nor yet receive forein forces into Scotland 3. That she should neither practise nor keep intelligence with Irish or English without the Queens knowledge and in the mean time cause the English fugitives and rebels to be rendered 4. That she should redresse the wrongs and harms done by her faction in the borders of England 5. That she should not joyn in marriage with any English man without the consent of the Queen of England nor with any other against the liking of the Estates of Scotland 6. That she should not permit the Scots to passe into Ireland without licence obtained from the Queen of England 7. That for the performance of these Articles her son should be delivered to be brought up in England and six other hostages such as the Queen of England should name should be sent thither The Castles of Home Fastâ— Castle kept by the English for the space of three years and some Fort in Galloway or Cantire be put in the English mens hands for restraining the Irish Scots from going into Ireland 8. That she should do justice according to the law upon the murtherers of her husband and the late Earl of Murray 9. That she should set her hand and cause the Commissioners to be appointed by her party set their hands and seals to these Articles 10. And lastly that all these particulars should be confirmed by the Estates of Scotland Now albeit divers of these Articles were misliked by the Lords of her faction yet conceiving thereby some hope of her restitution they dispersed certain copies in the countrey to encourage those that professed her obedience holding back such of the Articles as seemed most hard trusting to obtain a mitigation thereof in the conference And she indeed I mean the Scottish Queen shewed her self pleased withall onely she remitted the full answer to her Commissioners that should come from Scotland The rumour of the Accord held good a few days and amused the Regent and other Noblemen not a little till a letter directed by Sir William Cecil from Chattesworth in Derbyshire where the Queen of Scots then lay did otherwise inform which was to this effect That he was put upon that imployment much against his heart and yet had not dealt therein but with a great regard of the safety of the young King and whole Estate And that all he had done touching Scottish affairs was under protestation that it should be in
forces in parts remote from the Realm of Scotland the King upon signification made unto him by the Queen of England should furnish 2000 horsemen and 5000 footmen or a lesser number as it shall please the said Queen to require and should cause them be conducted from the borders of Scotland into any part of the Kingdom of England upon the charges of the said Queen And in case the said Realm of Scotland be invaded in any part remote from the borders of England by any forain force the Queen of England upon requisition made to her by the King should furnish 3000 horsemen and 6000 footmen or a lesser number at the option of the said King and shall cause them to be conducted to any part of the Realm of Scotland upon the Kings charges 6. That in case the invasion should be upon the North parts of the Realm of England within 60 miles of the borders of Scotland the King being required by the Queen should gather all the forces he could make and joyn with the English power for pursuing the said invaders and keep them together for the space of thirty days or so much longer if it be required as the subjects of Scotland are usually accustomed to stay in the fields for the defence of their own Kingdom 7. That upon any invasion or trouble arising in the Realm of Ireland the King upon notice given to him thereof should not only inhibit the repair thither of any of the inhabitants of Argile Isles and places adjacent or any other parts of his dominions but also if it shall happen them or any of them to go into Ireland with a number extraordinary and in hostile manner the King upon signification of the same should denonnce them his Rebels and pursue them as Traitors 8. That neither of their Majesties should hereafter aid supply assist or entertain the Rebels or adversaries of the other nor permit them to reside either privately or publickly in any part of their dominions but upon the first requisition of the Prince to whom they are Rebels they should undelayedly be delivered according to the old leagues and treaties or then expulsed forth of their dominions and redresse made for any injuries they should happen to commit during their abode in the same 9. That all controversies about matters of borders or wrongs committed in the Marches since the time of the Kings accepting the government in his own person and by the space of four years preceding should be friendly determined and satisfied at the sight of Commissioners to be appointed on both sides who should meet at the within six moneths after the date of the presents and decide thereupon 10. That neither of their Majesties should enter into any league or treaty without the consent of the other by letters signed with their hands under their privy signet with any other Prince or State whatsoever to the prejudice of the present Treaty 11. That all former treaties betwixt their Majesties progenitors and both Realms notwithstanding any discontinuance thereof should stand in full force so farre as they should not be found derogatory to the present treaty and that this treaty should not infringe any league made by either of their Majesties or their progenitors with other their friends and confederates in any time by-gone the cause of Religion onely excepted wherein the present league is declared to be offensive and defensive 12. That both their Majesties should confirm the league by their oathes and great Seals which should be interchanged and mutually delivered to others 13. Lastly that the King at his coming to the perfect age of 25. years should cause the present league to be ratified by the States of the Kingdome like as the Queen at the same time should cause it to be confirmed in her Parliament of England These were the Articles of the league concluded at Berwick and signed by Francis Earl Bothwel Robert Lord Boyd and Sir Iames Home of Coldinknowes Commissioners for the King As likewise by Edward Earl of Rutland William Lord Evers and Sir Thomas Randolph Commissioners for the Queen of England It was believed that this amity contracted with such deliberation should have continued firm for besides the publick league the Queen had sent to the King a letter under her own hand wherein she did faithfully promise to suffer nothing to be done that might derogate or prejudge his right and title to the Crown of England And for a further demonstration of her kindnesse had presented him with a gift of annuity answerable to the lands possessed by the Lady Lennox in her time which the King by divers Ambassadours had formerly required as due to him Yet a few moneths after brake out a businesse that put them in worse terms then before and was with no small difficulty pacified the story whereof shall next be related The Queen of Scots being touched in the trial of Babingtons conspiracy as having interchanged divers letters with him a consultation was kept concerning her and what was fittest to be done for they considered that all the conspiracies made against the Queen of England being chiefly intended in hope of the Scottish Queen her succession so long as she lived their Soveraign should never be secured and that therefore the surest course was to put her out of the way But how this should be done the opinions were different The Earl of Leicester advising to dispatch her secretly by poyson Secretary Walsingham did mightily oppose it as that which would draw upon the Queen both danger and dishonour and besides in it self was a thing injust and no better then a cruel murther Wherefore his opinion was that the course of Law should be kept and Commission given for making her process and as the trial should prove for giving sentence and judgement This opinion prevailing certain Noblemen Counsellours and Judges were chosen for the businesse who meeting at the Castle of Fotheringham where the Queen of Scots was kept the eleventh of October and calling her before them did charge her with the said conspiracy and entercourse of letters She refusing to answer and be tried as a subject being her self an absolute Queen they notthelesse went on and finding her guilty pronounced the sentence of death which was shortly thereafter confirmed by the Estates of Parliament and a supplication therewith delivered to the Queen for putting their decree in execution How soon the King was advertised hereof he sent William Keith Gentleman of his chamber to the Queen with a letter to this effect That howbeit it seemed strange to him that the Nobility and Counsellors of England should take upon them to give sentence upon a Queen of Scotland and one descended of the Royal blood of England yet he would think it much more strange if she should stain her hands with the blood of his mother who was of the same Royal condition with her self and of the same sexe which as he could not believe would enter
will answer that it is not their purpose presently and out of hand to enforce obedience but by fatherly admonitions and conferences to induce such as are disaffected But if any be of an opposite and turbulent spirit I will have them inforced to a conformity Neither tell me that the wearing of a surplice or using the Crosse in Baptism will diminish the credit of Ministers that have formerly dissallowed the same for that is just the Scotish Argument when any thing was concluded that sorted not with their humour the only reason why they would not obey was that it stood not with their credit to yield having been so long of a contrary opinion I will none of that but that a time be limited by the Bishops of every Diocese to such and they that will not yield whatsoever they are let them be removed for we must not preferre the credit of a few private men to the generall peace of the Church Throughout all this conference in every point that was moved or came to be talked of the King did shew such knowledge and readiness as bred not a small admiration in the hearers Chancellour Egerton wondering to see him so expedite and perfect in all sort of Divinity said That he had often heard and read that Rex est mixta persona cum Sacerdote but that he saw never the truth of it untill that day Let me adde that which I was afterward told by Richard Bancroft Archbishop of Canterbury for Whitgift died the next moneth after the conference one of the great glories of the English Church that when the Rolles were brought in of those that stood out and were deposed which was some years after they were found to be fourty nine in all England when as the Ministers of that Kingdome are reckoned nine thousand and above such a noise will a few disturbers cause in any society where they are tolerated In the March thereafter a Parliament was kept in England where the King after he had given thanks to the State for the generall applause they shewed in receiving him to the place which God by birthright and lineall descent had provided for him did earnestly move the union of the two Kingdomes that as they were made one in the head so among themselves they might be inseparably conjoyned and all memory of by-past divisions extinguished A motion that took well at first and seemed to be generally desired of both Nations but did not succeed as was wished The Parliament alwaies at his Majesties desire and for a demonstration of their obedience did nominate Thomas Ellesmore Lord Chancellor of England Thomas Earl of Dorset Thesaurer Charles Earl of Nottingham Lord high Admirall Henry Earl of Southampton William Earl of Pembroke Henry Earl of Northampton Richard Bishop of London Toby Bishop of Durham Anthony Bishop of St Davids Robert Lord Cecill principall Secretary to his Majesty Edward Lord Souch Lord President of Wales William Lord Monteagle Ralph Lord Eure Edmond Lord Sheffeild Lord President of the Councell of the North Lords of the higher House And Thomas Lord Clinton Robert Lord Buckhurst Sir Francis Hastings knight Sir Iohn Stanhop knight Vice-chamberlain to the Kings Majesty Sir George Carew knight Vice-chamberlain to the Queens Majesty Sir Iohn Herbert knight second Secretary to his Majesty Sir Thomas Strickland knight Sir Edward Stafford knight Sir Henry Nevill of Barkshire knight Sir Richard Buckly knight Sir Henry Billingsly knight Sir Daniell Dunne knight Dean of the Arches Sir Edward Hobby knight Sir Iohn Savile knight Sir Robert Wroth knight Sir Thomas Challoner knight Sir Robert Mansell knight Sir Thomas Ridgway knight Sir Thomas Holcraft knight Sir Thomas Hasketh knight his Majesties Attorney of the Court of Wards and Liveries Sir Francis Bacon knight Sir Lawrence Cawfield knight Serjeant at Law Sir Henry Hubbard knight Serjeant at Law Sir Iohn Bennet knight Doctor of the Lawes Sir Henry VVitherington Sir Ralph Grey and Sir Thomas Lake knights Robert Ashwith Thomas Iames and Henry Chapman Merchants Knights and Burgesses of the house of Commons Giving them or any eight or more of the said Lords of the higher house and any twenty of the said Knights and Burgesses of the said house of Commons full power liberty and Commission to assemble and meet at any time or times before the next Session of Parliament â—or treating and consulting with certain selected Commissioners to be nominated and authorized by authority of the Parliament of the realm of Scotland of and concerning such an union of the said realms of England and Scotland and of and concerning such other matters causes and things whatsoever as upon mature deliberation and consideration the greatest part of the said Lords Knights Citizens and Burgesses being assembled with the Commissioners to be nominated by the Parliament of Scotland shall in their wisdome think and deem convenient and necessary for the honour of his Majesty and the weal and commmon good of both the said realms during his Majesties life and under all his progenie and royall posterity for ever which Commissioners of both the said realms shall according to the tenor of their said Commissions reduce their doings and proceedings into writings or instruments tripartite every part to be subscribed and sealed by them to the end that one part thereof may in all humility be presented to his most excellent Majesty the second part to be offered to the consideration of the next Session of Parliament for the realm of England and the third to be offered to the consideration of the next Parliament for the realm of Scotland that thereupon such further proceeding may be had as by both the said Parliaments may be thought fit and necessary for the weal and common good of both the said realms A Parliament in Scotland for the same purpose was indicted to the tenth of Aprill and thereafter prorogated to the eleventh of Iuly at which time the Lords Spirituall and Temporall assembled by virtue of his Majesties Commission did ordain the persons following they are to say Iohn Earl of Montrosse Chancellor of Scotland Francis Earl of Arroll high Constable of Scotland Iames Earl of Glencarn Alexander Earl of Linlithgow Iohn Archbishop of Glasgow David Bishop of Rosse George Bishop of Cathnes Walter Prior of Blantire Patrick Lord Glammis Alexander Lord Elphingston Alexander Lord Fyvie President of the Session of Scotland Robert Lord Roxbrugh Iames Lord Abircorn Iames Lord Balmerinoth Principall Secretary of Scotland David Lord of Scone Sir Iames Scrimgeour of Dudop knight Sir Iohn Cockburn of Ormston knight Sir Iohn Hume of Couldenknowes knight Sir David Carnegie of Kinnard knight Sir Robert Melvill elder of Murdocarmie knight Sir Thomas Hamilton of Binnie knight Sir Iohn Lermouth of Balcony knight Sir Alexander Straton of Lawriston knight Sir Iohn Sheen of Curry-hill knight Mr. Iohn Sharp of Howston Lawyer Mr. Thomas Craig Lawyer Henry Nisbit George Bruce Alexander Rutherford and Mr. Alexander
Wedderburne Merchants or any twelve of them to assemble and convene themselves after the ending of the present Session of Parliament and before the next Session thereof at such time and in such place as it should please his Majesties to appoint with certain selected Commissioners nominated and authorized by the Parliament of England according to the tenour of their Commissions in that behalf to conferre treat and consult upon a perfect union of the realms of Scotland and England and concerning such other matters things and causes whatsoever tending to his Majesties honor and contentment and to the weal and tranquillity of both the Kingdomes during his Majesties life and his royall posterity for ever as upon mature deliberation the greater part of the said Commissioners assembled as is aforesaid with the Commissioners authorized by the Parliament of England shall in their wisdome think most expedient and necessary not derogating from any fundamentall Lawes ancient priviledges and rights offices dignities and liberties of the Kingdome This last clause was added because of the narrative of the English Act wherein it was said That it was not his Majesties mind to alter or innovate the fundamentall lawes priviledges and good customes of the Kingdome of England by the abolishing or alteration whereof it was impossible but that a present confusion should fall upon the whole state and frame of that Kingdome In all other things the Statute in substance was the same with the English Soon after this the King resolving to have Westminster at London the place of the meeting letters were directed to the Noblemen and others nominated for Scotland willing them to addresse themselves to the journey and to be ready to meet with the other Commissioners the 20 of October and lest any disorder should fall out in the absence of the Chancellor and others of the Councell the Lord Newbottle was appointed to attend and reside in Councell unto their return The day and place of meeting was precisely observed by the Commissioners of both Kingdomes who after many dayes conferences agreed unto certain Articles to be presented to his Majesty and to the Courts of Parliament of both Kingdomes there to receive such strength and approbation as in their wisdomes should seem expedient the Articles were as followeth It is agreed by the Commissioners of England and Scotland to be mutually proponed to the Parliament of both realms at the next Sessions That all hostile lawes made and conceived expressely either by England against Scotland or Scotland against England shall in the next Sessions be abrogated and utterly extinguished It is also agreed that all Lawes Customes and Treaties of the Borders betwixt England and Scotland shall be declared by a generall Act to be abrogated and abolished and that the subjects on either part shall be governed by the Lawes and statutes of the Kingdomes where they dwell and the name of the Borders extinguished And because by abolishing the Border Lawes and Customes it may be doubted that the executions shall cease upon those sentences that have heretofore been given by the opposite Officers of those Borders upon wrongs committed before the death of the late Queen of happy memory It is thought fit that in case the Commissioners or Officers to be appointed by his Majesty before the time of the next Sessions of Parliament shall not procure sufficient redresse of such filed Bills and Sentences that then the said Parliaments may be moved to take such order as to their wisdomes shall seem convenient for satisfaction of that which hath been decerned by some Officers as also how disorders and insolencies may be hereafter repressed and the countrey which was lately of the Borders kept in peace and quietnesse in time to come As likewise to prescribe some order how the pursuits of former wrongs preceding the death of the late Queen and since the last treatise of the Borders in the years 1596 and 1597. which have never as yet been moved may be continued and prosecuted to a definitive sentence And forasmuch as the next degree to the abolition of all memory of hostility is the participation of mutuall commodities and commerce It is agreed first concerning importation of Merchandise into either realm from forein parts that whereas certain commodities are wholly prohibited by the severall lawes of both realms to be brought into either of them by the natives themselves or by any other the said prohibitions shall now be made mutuall to both and neither an English man bring into Scotland nor a Scotch man into England any of these prohibited Wares and Commodities Neverthelesse if the said Commodities be made in Scotland it shall be lawfull to bring them out of Scotland to England and so reciprocally of the Commodities made in England and carried to Scotland Whereas a doubt hath been conceived against the equall communication of trade betwixt English and Scottish subjects in matter of importation grounded upon some inequality of priviledges which the Scots are reported to have in forain parts and namely in France above the English whereby the English might be prejudged And that after a very deliberate consideration had of the said supposed inequalities both private and publick examination of divers Merchants of either side touching all liberties immunities priviledges imposts and paiments on the part of the English and on the part of the Scottish either at Burdeaux for their trade of wines or in Normandy or any other part of France for other Commodities it appeared that in the Trade of Burdeaux there was and is so little difference in any advantage of priviledges or immunities or in the imposts and paiments all being reckoned and well weighed on either side as it could not justly hinder the communication of trade In the trade of Normandy likewise or any other parts of France the advantage that the Scottish subjects by their priviledge is acknowledged to have is such as without much difficulty may be reconciled and reduced to an equality with the English by such means as is hereafter declared It is agreed that the Scottish men shall be free for the transporting of wine from Burdeaux into England paying the same customes and duties that the English men doe pay and the English men shall be likewise free for transporting of wine or other commodities from Burdeaux into Scotland paying the same Customes and duties that the Scottish men doe pay there And likewise for clearing and resolving the doubts touching the advantage that the Scots are supposed to have above the English in buying and transporting the commodities of Normandy and of other parts of the Kingdome of France excepting the buying of wine in Burdeaux which is already determined It is agreed that there shall be sent some meet and discreet persons into France two for either side to take perfect notice of any such advantage as either the English have above the Scots or the Scots above the English in the buying or
The Scottish Preachers that lived in the Province of York chose rather to forsake their Benefices then admit the rites of Rome 18 Reformation the first proposals made 119 First artempted at Perth 121 The death of Lodowick Duke of Richmond 546 S SCotland converted before Pope Victor 2 Patrick a Scot converted Ireland 8 The Universities of Pavia and Paris founded by Scottish men 22 Scotus the Schoolman Claudius Clemens Rabanus Maurus Flaccus Albinus al. Alcuinus born in Scotland 22 Invaded and subdued by Edward I. of England 49 The King of Scotland refuseth to stand to the Popes arbitration concerning his incursions upon England and the title that the King of England had to Scotland 52 Edward III of England promiseth by Charter to release the Scots from all duties of subjection and homage 53 Divers prodigies in Scotland 94 The Articles of contract between England and Scotland 142 English Ambassadors sent to mediate a peace in Scotland 146 A Scottish prisoner rescued out of the Castle of Carlisle by a strange attempt 414 The Archbishop of Canterbury in a Letter acknowledgeth the independent Jurisdiction of the Church of Scotland 527 The King of Northumberland obtaineth of the King of Scots the assistance of some learned Bishops 13 Scottish Bishops preach the Christian faith and convert many in England 15 Pope Sixtus IV. giveth sentence in favour of the Church of Scotland that the Scots should have a Primate of their own 58 Celius Sedulius proved that he was a native of Scotland and not of Ireland 8 Iohn D. Scotus proved that he was born in Scotland and not in England 55 Subjects rebellion of the Subjects if it succeed not advance the Soveraignty 432 The history of the Spanish Armada 370 Schisme in the Presbytery of S. Andrewes 386 A great one in the See of Rome 56 Mary Stewart sent into France 90 Returneth into Scotland 178 Queen Elizabeth acknowledgeth her to be next heir to the crown of England 180 But refuseth to declare it openly 181 She marrieth Henry son to the Earl of Lennox 191 Discontents arise between them 193 She putteth her husbands name after her own ibid. Married to Bothwell after the manner of the reformed Church 203 Surrendereth her self to the Lords and is received and kept as a Prisoner 207 The Scots cannot resolve to arraigne her 214 She escapeth out of prison 215 Her army overcome at Glasgow 216 She seeketh refuge in England 217 Loseth her expectation ibid. Consultations in England about putting her to death 350 The Queen of England signeth a warrant for her execution 355 The circumstances of her death 356 King Iames her son interposeth for her exemption from tryall 351 He offereth pledges of the chief of his nobility to be given for his mothers faithfulness toward the Queen of England 352 The King commandeth the Ministers to make publick intercession in their Prayers for his Mother and they refuse 354 The Queen of England taketh cognisance by her Commissioners of the dealing of the Regent of Scotland toward the Queen-mother of Scotland 219 Queen Elizabeth in her Patent to the Commissioners is so much a friend to the right and cause of Mary that she giveth not the title of Regent to the Earl of Murray 219 T TEmplars The dissolution of them 51 They were condemned and suffered unjust torments partly for their great riches partly for their freedome of taxing the vices of the Court of Rome ibid. U UNion The Articles of Union between both Kingdomes of England and Scotland 481 They are not passed in the English Parliament 505 Objections made against the Ceremony of Vnction in the solemnity of Coronation answered 381 W WItches Agnes Sampson a Witch apprehended 383 Her familiar Spirit had no power to kill the King ibid. Y YEar The account thereof changed from March to Ianuary in Scotland 456 THE KINGS Of SCOTLAND From the first Plantation of Christian Religion there mentioned in this History DOnald I. Converted and Baptized Page 2 Ethodius 3 Cratilinth ibid. Fincormachus 4 Eugenius ibid. Hergustus ibid. Ethodius alià s Echadius 5 Erthus ibid. Fergus ibid. Eugenius II. Greem Regent 6 Congallus II. 9 Kinnatellus ibid. Aidanus 10 Eugenius IV. 14 Donald IV ibid. Ferqhard 18 Eugenius VI. ibid. Eugenius VII ibid. Achaius An. D. 800. 23 Alpin ibid. Kenneth 24 Constantine II. 25 Gregory the Great 26 Constantine III. ibid. Kenneth III. 27 Malcolm II. 28 Duncan I. ibid. Mackbeth an Usuper ibid. Malcolm III. 29 Edgar 31 32 Alexander the Fierce ibid. David ibid. 36 Malcolm IV. 36 William 37 Alexander II. 42 Alexander III. 44 Iohn Baliol 48 Robert Bruce 52 David Bruce 55 Edward Baliol ibid. Robert Stewart ibid. Iames I. 57 Iames II. ibid. Iames III. 58 Iames IV. 61 Duke of Albany Regent of Scotland 62 Iames V. 70 Earl of Arran Governour during the minority of Mary Stewart 71 He resigneth the Regency to the Queen-mother 92 Mary Stewart Queen taketh into her hands the Government 178 She resigneth the Government 211 Iames VI. Crowned ibid. Earl of Murray Regent 212 Earl of Lennox Grandfather to the young King chosen Regent 241 Iohn Earl of Marre Regent 258 Earl of Moreton Regent 267 The King himself accepteth of the Government 280 Bishops that lived in Scotland or the adjacent Isles before the distribution of the Kingdome into DIOCESES AMphibalus Bishop in the Isle of Man 4 Regulus 5 Ninian 6 Palladius 7 Hildebert 8 Columba 9 Servanus 11 Colman 15 Adamannus or Adamnamus 18 19 Wiro and Plechelmus consecratâ—d at Rome by Pope Honorius 19 Bonifacius an Italian 20 Mocharius Glacianus and Gervadius 23 Archbishops and Bishops of the See of S. Andrews 1 Adrian 25 2 Kellach 26 3 Malisius ibid. 4 Kellach II 26 5 Malmore 26 6 Malisius II 26 7 Alwinus 26 8 Muldwin 26 9 Tuthaldus 26 10 Fothadus 27 11 Gregorius 28 12 Turgot 30 13 Godricus 32 14 Eâ—dmerus a Monk of Canterbury 33 15 Robert Prior of Scone 34 16 Arnold Abbot of Kelso 36 17 Richard ibid. 18 Hugo by the Kings mandate 39 Iohn Scot by the Pope in opposition to the King ibid. 19 Roger son to the Earl of Leicester succeedeth Hugo 41 20 William Malvoisin a Frenchman ibid. 21 David Benham 43 22 Abel 44 23 Gamelinus 45 24 William Wishart 46 25 William Fraser 47 26 William Lamberton 51 27 Iames Bane 55 The See vacant nine years ib. 28 William Landells 55 29 Stephen ibid. 30 Walter Traill ibid. 31 Thomas Steward son of Robert II chosen but refuseth it The See vacant during his life 56 32 Henry Wardlaw ibid. 33 Iames Kennedy ibid. 34 Patrick Graham first Archbishop of S. Andrews 58 35 William Shevez 59 36 Iames Stewart 61 37 Alexander Steward ibid. 38 Andrew Forman 62 39 Iames Beaton ibid. 40 Beaton Nephew of the former Archbishop and Cardinall 67 69 41 The base brother of the Earl of Arran Governor of Scotland made Archbishop 84 42 Iohn Dowglas 261 43 Patrick Adamson 276 44 George Gladstaves
The Earl of Murray returneth from France He visiteth the Queen at Lochlevin The Earl of Murray elected Regent Bothwell taketh the Sea and is pursued by Grange The custody of Edinburgh Castle committed to Grange The Lords convened at Hamilton write to the Regent An. 1566. The first Parliament of King Iames the 6. The Acts concluded in Parliament The Queen ordained to be kept in prison The Bishop of Orkney deposed for marrying the Queen The confession of these that were executed for the Kings murther An. 1568. The Queen escapeth from Lochlevin The manner of the Queens escape The Queens resignation decerned null The Regent advertised of the Queens escape The Lord Boyd falleth to the Queen The Regent resolveth to stay at Glasgow and assemble forces The battel of Landside 13 May 1568. The order of the Regents Army The number of the slain The ptisoners that were taken The Castles of Hamilton and Darffan rendered to the Regent The Queen flieth to England and writes to Queen Elizabeth The Queen of Scots begins to see her error A Parliament called by the Regent The Queen of England desires the Parliament to be delayed The Râ—gent refuseth The Queen of England writeth to the Regent Commissiooners choosed to go into England The tenour of the Commission An Assembly of the Church Who should have voice in Assemblies Acts of discipline The Bishop of Orkney reponed A meeting of the English and Scots Commissioners at York Commissioners for the Scottish Queen Protestation for the Queen of Scotland Commissioners of Eâ—gland protest in the contrary A declaration in behalf of the Queen of Scotland The Regents â—etire to the â—ommissioners oâ— England The Duke of Norfolks answer Lethington disswadeth the Regent from accusing the Queen The information presented against the Queen of Scots The Commissioners of the Queen of Scots reply The Commissioners of England desire the Regent to give better reasons 〈◊〉 disperied of the Râ—gents imprisonment A Declaration presented in writing by the Râ—gent The answer of the Commissioners for the Queen of Scots The Queen of England doubteth how to cary her self in the business The Queens Commissioners purge the Regent of the Kings murther The Duke of Chattellerault claimeth the Regency A reply to the Dukes petition The Queen of Scots letters intercepted The Regent returneth to Scotland The Duke made Deputy by the Queen of Scots He writeth to the Assembly of the Church The Assemblies answer Commissioners from the Churches the Regent Petitions in behalf of the Church Orders for giving degrees in Divinity The Regent and Duke agreed An. 1569. He forthinketh his yielding The Duke and Lord Hereis commitâ—ed to the Castle of Edinburgh A treaty with Argile and Huntley Huntky remitted upon some conditions The Regents expedition into the North. The Lord Boyd briageth letteâ—s from both Queens to the Regent A letter from Sir Nicholas Throgmorion to the Regent A letter from Sir Nicholas to Lethington A Convention of Estates at Perth Their judgement of the Letters sent from the two Queens A message sent into England The Abbot of Dunsermling sent into England The Earl of Northumberland imprisoned in Lochlevin Lethington charged with the Kings murther The Laird of Grange counterâ—â—en the Regents hand and taketh Lethington to the Castle The Regent makes an expedition to the borders He is informed of practices against his life Lethingtons triall deferred Iames Hamilton of Bothwell-haugh taketh in hand the Regents murder The Regent killed by the shot of a bulbullet The murtherer escapeth Thuanus 46. The death of the Regent greatly lamented A prediction of Iohn Knox. An Ambassadour sent from England The Ambassadours speech in Councell An. 1570. The Laird of Lochlevin urgeth a revenge of the Regents murther The delay ill taken of the people The principals of the Queens faction writ to the Earl of Morton Lethington offereth himself to a trial A meeting at Edenburgh of the Noblemen of both parties in March They deliberate upon the choice of a Regent An Ambassadour from France A meeting at Linlithgow of the Noblemen that stood for the Queen They give out a Proclamation They deal wiâ—h the Earl of Morton but he will not hearken to them An Army cometh to Berwick under conduct of the Earl of Sussex The Lords forsake Edinburgh upon the report They give warrant for fortifying the Castle The Army of England entereth in Scotland The Lords desire a Truce from the Earl of Sussex which he refused A Convention of the Estates at Edinburgh An offer of peace to those of the Queens party The Queens authority proclaimed A Proclamation made by the Estates The Conspirators ranked in their Orders All prepare for Warre The Lord Seaton sent to Flanders The Parson of Dumbar brings moneys and Armour to Huntley The Lords who stood for the King send to Sussex for supply Grange and Lethington seek to stay the English forces upon offers Sir William 〈…〉 in Scotland with an Army The Castle of Hamilton rendered The Abbot of Dunfemlin Ambassadour in England His instructions The Queens answer to the instructions The Earl of Lennox made Lieutenant of the Countrey The Queen of Englands answer to the Lords that stood for the King The Earl of Lennox created King An Assembly of the Church at Edinburgh Commissioners directed from the Assembly of the Church to the Lords of the Queens party The Regent goeth to impede the Parliament indicted at Linlithgow A Parliament indicted at Edinburgh The Regents expedition to Brichâ—n An Ambassadour to Denmark An Abstinence agreed unto A Treaty with the Queen of Scots Tâ—is Regents letter to the Queen of England Secretary Lethington denounced Rebel and loses his office The Secretaries Declaration The Regents Reply Articles propounded to the Queen of Scotland Sir William Cecil his letters to the Regent The Earl of Sussex his advertisement to the Regent His particular advice The Regents answer The Abbot of Dunfermlin made Secretary and sent into England The Queen of Englands answer ult November 1570. The Laird of Grange raiseth a trouble in Edinburgh and breaks out in open Rebellion Commissioners sent into England Reasons justifying the Queen of Scots deposition Articles proponed to the Commissioners of Scotland Answer to the foresaid Articles Propositions made to the Queen of Scots Commissioners The Answer The Treaty continued to a more convenient time The Bishop of Galloway and the Lord Levingston conferre with the Earl of Morton Paslay taken by Lord Claud Hamilton and recovered by the Regent The Castle of Dunbartâ—n surprized The Archbishop of S. Andrews executed His Declaration at his death They who stood for the Queen take Arms and come to Edinbugh The Regent resolveth to hold the Parliament An. 1571. Persons forfeited in this Parliament The civil war renewed The Regent goeth to Striveling A conflict betwixt Morton and the Lords at Edinburgh The Eaâ—l of Morton hireth souldiers The Queen of England sendeth to Sir William Drury to try the estate of things The Lords on the Queens party hold
conference at Hampton Court His Majesties proposition at the meeting An. 1603. Doctor Reynolds speech in behalf of the Petitioners The particulars complained of The meeting continued to 18 of Ianuary The effect of the meeting and his Majesties exhortation to the Clergy The Chancellor of England his judgement of the King The number deposed for disconformity An. 1604. A Parliament in England for the union The English Commissioners The power given them by the Parliament A Parliament in Scotland to that purpose The Scottish Commissioners The power granted hâ—em Westminster appointed for the place of meetting Articles of the union Hostile lawes extinguished The name of Borders abolished Order for sentences not satisfied Participation of Commâ—dito be mutuall Inequality of priviledges to be be tried Importation to be free to both people Exportation of Goods prohibited made unlawfull to both Order for Native Commodities Order for Customes Scots may be associated in English Companies Order for transportation Punishment of such as shall transgress Caution to be given by the owners and Masters of Ships Indifferency of fraighting Poâ—â—nati declared free Exception for Offices of the Crown Reservation of his Majesties Prerogative Remanding of malefactors A scroll of the Articles presented to the King The Kings speech to the Commissioners The title of great Britain assumed Peeces of gold and silver coyned The Earl of Montrosse made Commissioner of the kingdom The Lord Fiâ—â— received Chancellor An. 1605. The generall Assembly continued A number convene notwithstanding the discharge The names of them convened The Kings Commissioner dischargeth the meeting The Ministers denounced and cited by the councell for their disobedience Some confess their fault and are pardoned Oâ—hers maintain their meeting and are Committed The proceeding of the Councell condemned by the Ministery His Majesties Declaration touching some rumours dispersed The King his resolution in making no sudden change in the Church policy The form of their Declinatour The Assembly declared unlawfull Some of the Ministers pursued criminally The Indictment Exception proponed by the Advocates The Reply to the Exception The Ministers found guilty of Treason A Proclamation that none should oppose the decision of the Justice A Convention of Estates His Majesties Letter directed to the Estates The Acts passed in the Convention The history of the Powder Treason The Jesuits approve of the enterprise The Conspirers swear secrecy A Cellar hired for the myne A deliberation for the Kings children Contribution for the enterprise Catholicks to be stopped from coming to the Parliament No forain Princes to be acquainted therewith Intention to proclaim Lady Elizabeth Queen The Conspiracy detected The Letter sent to the L d Mounteagle The secrecy of so many very strange An. 1606. Mr. Iames Melvills answer in name of the rest His Majesty proponeth three questions to them A time is desired by them and granted The second audience The Bishops judgement of the meeting at Aberdene Mr. Addrew Melvills answer touching the same Mr. Iames Balfour his answer Mr. Melvill his answer Mr. William Scot his answer interrupted by Mr. Andrew Melvill The Ministers called before the Scottish Councell They are discharged to return into Scotland The Kings pleasure touching the warded Ministers The letter to the Justice prescriving the forme of the sentence A Letter from his Majesty to the Councell The sentence pronounced by the Justice A Proclamation against Jesuits Mr. Andrew Melvill committed to the Tower The Observation of the Writer An Assembly indicted at Linlithgow His Majesties letter to the Assembly An overture sent from his Majesty to the Assembly Some brethren deputed undergoe to consider the overture The overture embraced with some cautions Cautions for the constant Moderators The cautions and overture approved A complaint of the Papists and their ininsolencie Petition from the Assembly to his Majesty His Majesties answer An. 1607. His Majesties pleasure touching the Popish Noblemen Direction to the Councell for constant Moderators The Synod of Perth discharged The Synod of Fife discharged A Provest placed in the new Colledge of S. Andrews The Ministers permitted to return from London Alexander Lord Spynie killed Trouble betwixt the Earl of Morton and Lord Maxwell Maxwell committed maketh an escape The Laird of Iohnston most treacherously killed by Maxwell An. 1608. The Earl of Argile made Lieutenant of the Isles A Parliament in Scotland for the union Provisions for the union An Assembly in Linlithgow for restraining Papists The Marquis of Huntley excommunicated The causes of the defection partly in the Church The remedies of the same The cause of the defection proceeding from others Supplication to his Majesty for redresse of these evils Petitions to his Majesty for repressing Popery The Secretaries journey to Court He is charged for writing a letter to the Pope and stealing his Majesties hand thereto The Secretary charged with the fault before the Councell His answer tothe Lords of the Councell Chancellor Egerton pronounceth sentence against him Sprot his execution The Commissioners of the Assembly have audience His Majesties answer A convention at Edinburgh An. 1609. The Chancellor admitted Counsellor of England Acts made for Religion Acts made against ravishing of women The Secretaries tryall at S. Andrews His indictment The Secretary his speech and answer to the indictment His protestation of two things The Jury sworn The doom pronounced against Balmerinoch A Parliament at Edingburgh An. 1610. An Assembly at Glasgow The moderators paid of the stipend promised A supplication in name of the Popish Lords Huntly freed of his confining The Earl of Arroll troubled for his simulation The Earl of Angus goeth to Paris The Archbishop of Glasgow called to Court The business proponed by his Majesty The Archbishop his answer The consecration questioned The High Commissioners appointed Directions for the High Commissioners and other matters Ecclesiasticall An. 1601. Directions for matters Ecclesiasticall The Clergy doth approve the directions Orders for the Councell An. 1611. A Proclamation against bearing of quarrell The troubles of Orkney The Earl of Orkney committed and his Acts of Court discharged The Clangregore to be rooted out The deuh of the Earl of Dunbarre Somerset his rising Advocate made first Clerk Register afterwards Secretary Sir Iohn Skeen dyeth of grief An. 1612 The Lord Samqhar executed in England Excommunication of persons for criminall and capitall cases if they become fugitive The Clergy agree to reform this point The death of the earl of Eglington and the disposition of his living to his Cousin A Parliament in Scotland A subsidy granted The L d Burleigh removed from Councell An. 1613. The death of Prince Henry The marriage of the Lady Elizabeth with the Palgrave The King acquireth the lands of Orkney Rebellion in Orkney The Earl of Cathnes imployed to suppresse the Rebels Persons executed for the Rebellion The death of the Bishop of Rosse The Earl of Orkney put to triall An. 1614 The Earl of Orkney his indictment The persons named for the Jury The sentence pronounced The execution of
in preparing his apparel Mean while the Ambassadours had a watchword given them not to see nor salute him And such of the Nobility as were known to bear him any favour or out of their compassion did vouchsafe him a visit were frowned upon by the Court His Father advertised of these things sent for him to come unto Glasgow where he then remained but scarce was he past a mile from Striveling when a vehement pain seised on all the parts of his body which at his coming to Glasgow was manifestly perceived to proceed of poison that treacherously had been ministred unto him for through all his body brake out blisters of a blewish colour with such a dolour and vexation in all his parts as nothing but death was a long time expected Yet his youth and natural strength vanquishing the force of the poison he began a little to convalesce and put his enemies to other shifts wherein shortly after but to their own undoing they prevailed The report of what passed at Striveling coming to Edinburgh where the Assembly of the Church was then gathered did greatly offend the better sort yet nothing grieved them so much as a Commission granted to the Archbishop of S. Andrews whereby he was reponed to his ancient jurisdiction in confirming Testaments giving collation to Benefices and other such things as were judged in the spiritual Courts The Assembly taking this greatly to heart ordained a supplication to be made to the Nobility and Lords of secret Councel professing Christ with them and who had renounced the Romane Antichrist I use the words of the superscription for impeding the said Commission and letting it to take effect In this supplication they said That the causes judged in these Courts did for the most part pertain to the true Church and that howsoever in hope of some good effect to have followed the Church had overseen the Commission granted by the Queen in these matters to men who for the greater number were of their own profession they would never be content that he whom they knew to be an enemy to Christ and his truth should exerce that jurisdiction seeing under the colour thereof he might usurp again his own authority and take upon him the judgement of heresie in which case none could be ignorant what his sentence could be wherefore their desire was the Queen should be informed that this was a violation of the laws of the Realm and the setting up again of the Romane Antichrist whose authority and usurped power in an open and free Parliament had been condemned which her Majesty also at her first arriving into this Realm and since that time by divers Proclamations had expressely forbidden to be acknowledged here of they said if their honours should plainly and boldly admonish the Queen using that reverence which was due from Subjects and doing nothing in a tumult they did perswade themselves she would do nothing against Justice and that such Tyrants should not dare once to appear in Judgement But howsoever matters went they humbly craved to understand their minds and what they would do if it should happen such wolfes to invade the flock of Christ. This the summe of the supplication I find not what answer it received nor that the Bishop made any use of his Commission but the change it seems which shortly after happened in the State did quite frustrate the same Master Knox being licenced at this time to visit his sons who were following their studies at Cambridge did move the Assembly to write unto the Bishops of England in favour of some Preachers who were troubled for not conforming themselves to the Orders of that Church Because it will appear by the letter in what esteem our reformers did hold the Church of England and how farre they were from accounting the government thereof Antichristian I thought meet to insert the same word by word The Superintendents Ministers and Commissioners of the Church within the Realm of Scotland to their Brethren the Bishops and Pastors of England who have renounced the Romane Antichrist and do professe with them the Lord Iesus in sincerity wish the increase of the holy Spirit BY word and writing it is come to our knowledge Reverend Pastors that divers of our brethren amongst whom some be of the best learned within that Realm are deprived from all Ecclesiastical function and forbidden to preach and so by you are stayed to promove the Kingdome of Iesus Christ because their conscience will not suffer them to take upon them at the commandment of the authority such garments as Idolaters in time of blindness have used in their idolatrous service which rumour cannot but be most dolorous to our hearts considering the sentence of the Apostle If ye bite and devour one another take heed ye be not consumed one of another We purpose not at the present to enter into the Question which we hear is agitated with greater vehemencie by either party then well liketh us to wit whether such apparel is to be accounted amongst things indifferent or not But in the bowels of Iesus Christ we crave that Christian charity may so far prevail with you that are the Pastors and guides of Christs flock in that Realm as ye do not to others that which ye would not others did unto you Ye cannot be ignorant how tender a thing Conscience is and all that have knowledge are not alike perswaded your conscience stirres not with the wearing of such things but many thousands both godly and learned are otherwise perswaded whose consciences are continually stricken with these sentences What hath Christ to do with Belial what fellowship is there betwixt light and darknesse If Surplice Corner-cap and Tippet have been the badges of Idolaters in the very act of their Idolatry what have the Preachers of Christian liberty and the rebukers of superstition to do with the dregges of that Romane beast yea what is he that ought not to fear either to take in his hand or forehead the print and mark of that odious beast Our brethren that refuse such unprofitable apparel do neither damne nor molest you who use such vain trifles if ye shall do the like to them we doubt not therein you shall please God and comfort the hearts of many which are wounded with the extremity used against those godly brethren Colour of Rhetorick or humane perswasion we use none but charitably we desire you to call to mind the sentence of S. Peter Feed the flock of God which is committed to your charge caring for it not by constraint but willingly not as being Lords of Gods heritage but being examples to the flock We further desire you to meditate upon that sentence of the Apostle Give not offence either to the Iewes or to the Grecians or to the Church of God In what condition ye and we both travel for the promoving of Christs Kingdom ye are not ignorant therefore we are the more bold to exhort you to
particulars it was desired That the persons nominated in Parliament for the matter of policy or juridiction of the Church should be ordained to meet at a certain day and place for concluding the same This was promised and the eighth of August appointed to that effect but the Diet did not hold and so these matters continued unresolved as before In the end of the Assembly the Bishop of Orkney who had been deposed from all function in the Church for the marriage of Bothwel with the Queen was upon his submission reponed to his place and for removing the scandal he was injoyned in his first Sermon to make publick acknowledgement of his fault and crave forgivenesse of God the Church and Estate which he had offended About the end of September the Regent and those that were joyned with him in commission took their journey into England and came to York the fifth of October the same day and almost the same hour came Thomas Howard Duke of Norfolk Thomas Earl of Suffex and Sir Ralph Sadler Chancellour of the Dutchy of Lancaster having Commission from the Queen of England to hear and determine all questions controversies debates and contentions betwixt her sister the Queen of Scots and the subjects adhering unto her on the one part and the Earl of Murray and others refusing to acknowledge her authority and adhering to the Prince her son on the other as likewise to decide all matters depending betwixt them two to confirm the peace before that time contracted or establish a new confederation betwixt them their people and subjects as they should think most convenient Some two days after Iohn Lesley Bishop of Ross William Lord Levingston Robert Lord Boyd Gawan Commendator of Kilwining and Iames Cockburn of Skirling Commissioners for the Scottish Queen came to the City where being all convened and the Commissions exhibited an oath was presented to both parties by the Commissioners of England by which they were required to swear That they should proceed sincerely in that conference and treaty and neither for affection malice or any other worldly respect propone any thing before the Commissioners which in their consciences they did not hold to be true just and godly and reasonable as also not to withdraw hide or conceal any matter fit to be opened and declared for the better knowledge of the truth in the controversies standing amongst them The Commissioners of the Queen of Scotland before they took the oath protested That although the Queen their Mistresse was pleased to have the differences betwixt her and her disobedient subjects considered and dressed by her dearest sister and cousen the Queen of England or by the Commissioners authorized by her yet she did not acknowledge her self subject to any Judge on earth she being a free Princesse and holding her imperial Crown of God alone This their protestation they desired to be put in record left the Queen or her posterity should be prejudiced in their Soveraignty by the present proceedings The Commissioners of England did contrariwise protest that they did neither admit nor allow that protestation in any sort to the hurt or prejudice of that right which the Kings of England have claimed had and enjoyed as superiours over the Realm of Scotland which Superiority they protested should belong and appertain to the Queen their Mistresse in the right of the Crown of England These protestations made both parties took the oath in manner as was required and this was the Act of the first meeting The next day the Commissioners of the Queen of Scotland presented a Declaration in writing bearing that Iames Earl of Morton Iohn Earl of Marre Alexander Earl of Glencâ—rne the Lords Homes Lindesay Ruthven Simple Cathcart Ochiltrie and other their assistants had levied an Army in the Queens name against the Queen taking her most noble peron used her in vile manner and thrust into prison in Lochlevin and forcibly broken her Mint-house taken away the printing Irons with all the silver and gold coyned and uncoyned which was in the house for the time And going to the Castle of Striveling and made a fashion to crown her sonne the Prince being then but thirteen moneths old That Iames Earl of Murray taking upon him the name of Regent had usurped the Royal authority and possessed himself with the whole forts Castles Munition Jewels and Revenues of the Kingdom And when it had pleased God to relieve her out of that prison wherein she was so straitly detained by the space of eleven moneths as none of her friends and true subjects could once be permitted to see or speak with her and that she had publickly declared by a solemn oath in the presence of divers of the Nobility at Hamilton that whatsoever was done by her in prison was extorted by force threats and fear of death she out of that natural affection which she carried to her realm and subjects did appoint the Earls of Argile Eglington Cassils and Rothes to agree and make a pacification with the said Regent and his partakers but they were so farre from admitting any peaceable Treaty as they did invade her in her passing to Dumbritton with the men of Warre whom she had hired with her own moneys killed divers of her faithful subjects led others away prisoners and banished some of good note for no other cause but for serving faithfully their lawful Princesse and so after a great many injuries had forced her to flye into England to request the help of Queen Elizabeth her dearest sister and in blood the nearest Cousen she had in the world for restoring her in her former estate and compelling her rebellious subjects to acknowledge their due obedience unto her Majesty which they in her Highnesse name did most instantly intreat The day following which was the ninth of October the Regent and rest of the Commissioners for the young King appearing before they would give any answer to the preceding writ craved first to be resolved Whether the Duke and those that were appointed with him for hearing their controversies bad power to pronounce in the cause of the Kings Mother guilty or not guilty and if according to the same they meant to give sentence without delay As likewise if it should appear by the Declaration they were to make that the Queen of Scots was guilty whether she should be delivered in their hands or detained in England and if the Queen of England would from thenceforth maintain the authority of the King and the Regency established in the person of the Earle of Murray Which points they desired to have cleared before they could enter into the accusation intended The Duke of Norfolk replied that they would proceed according to the Commission given unto them and render an account to her who had trusted them therewith Lethington upon this turning himself to the Regent said That it seemed the English haâ— no other purpose but to defame and disgrace the reputation of
the power of those whom the Queen and Regent should send in Commission to change diminish or augment the Articles at their pleasures Therefore did he advise the Regent to send a Nobleman with some other well learned and practised in the affairs of the countrey to deal in these matters taking care that the persons he choosed were constant and firm and such as would not be wonne from him nor from the cause This Letter of the date the thirteenth of October 1570. written in so friendly and familiar a manner for therein he named some whom the Regent had lately imployed of whom he willed him to beware gave him to understand that matters were not so farre gone as his adversary did bragge After a few dayes the Earl of Sussex advertised the Regent that the Lords of the other faction had made choice of certain Commissioners to attend the treaty begun betwixt their Queen and the Queen of England desiring that no trouble nor molestation should be made to them and their train in that journey as also to send some speciall persons instructed with Commission from the King and the Nobility of his side to give their best advice for the surety of the King and his dependants if matters should happen to be accorded And if it fell out otherwise to consider what should be the most sure course for continuance of amity betwixt the two Realms the preservation of the young King the reducing of the subjects to his obedience and the defence of the Isle against forain invasions These Commissioners he desired to be sent with expedition for that her Majesty longed to have an end of the business and could not grow to any resolution till she had conferred with them and understood their minds This he did by direction from the Queen his Mistris as he wrote howbeit he himself had thought of some particulars that he held convenient to be thought upon but for the Kings security and theirs if his mother should be set at liberty wherein he prayed him familiarly to shew what was his opinion As first if she should happen to be restored to her Crown and the King to be made to dimit the authority it might be upon condition that in case of her death or the breach of the present agreement he might reenter to the kingdome without any Solemnities to be used Next that a Councell of both parties might be provided to her by the Queen of England for avoyding all sorts of practises Thirdly that the young King should be educated in the Realm of England under the custody of such persons as the Nobility of his party should appoint which would be the greatest sureâ—y for those that depended on him and tie his mother to the performance of the Articles Fourthly that a new Act of Parliament should be made for the establishing of true Religion and oblivion of all injuries committed on either side Fifthly that the Queen should give some principall men of her side Hostages to remain in England for fulfilling the heads of the agreement Lastly he advised the Regent to send with the Commissioners that should be imployed in that errand a writing signed and scaled by all the Noblemen of the Kings party to shâ—w who they were that stood on that side Because besides the credit it would bring to the cause the same would be to good purpose howsoever matters went For if the Treaty should break off it would be seen who would maintain and defend the King Or if otherwise an accord were made it would be known for what persons the Queen of England was to provide a surety Whether these Propositions were made as he gave out of his own head or which would rather appear that he was set on by the Queen of England to try the Regent and Nobilities mind he answered very advisedly and beginning at the last he said That he held his opinion good touching the sealing of a writing by the Nobility of the Kings party whose number would not be found so great as he wished because there were divers Neuters that adhered to no side and many that desired to keep things loose some for impunity of crimes whereof they were suspected and others hoping to better their condition in an unquiet time yet he trusted to obtain the subscriptions of a sufficient number who had sincerely continued in the profession of true Religion and his Majesties obedience and from their hearts abhorred the murtherers of the King his sonne and the late Regent For the other points he said that he could not give his private opinion in matters so important by reason of his oath made at the acceptation of the government to have no dealing in matters of that kind without the knowledge of the Nobility and Councell And touching the Commissioners which the Queen required to be sent there should be diligence used therein how soon they understood of what quality the others were that the Lords of the Queens party did choose Neither should any molestation be made to them in their journy so as their names the number of their train and the way they minded to take were notified For otherwise as he said the King and Estate might receive hurt and some that were culpable of those odious murthers steal away privately in their company Mean while he shewed that till Commissioners might be chosen by the advice of the Noblemen then absent the Councell had appointed the Abbot of Dunfermlin Ambassadour to the Queen of England and given him such instructions as they held needfull for the time by whom she should be more fully advertised of their minds in all matters About the midst of November the Abbot of Dunfermlin then made Secretary went into England He was desired to shew the Queen How it was the expectation of all the good subjects in Scotland that she would never forget the motherly care she had professed to have of the innocent person of their young King nor yet be unmindfull of the Noblemen and others professing his obedience who had studied to maintain peace betwixt the two Realms ever since her Majesties entry to the Crown and that they being required as well by letters from her Lieutenant in the North as by her Ambassadour resident amongst them to direct some speciall persons towards her for communicating such things as they thought requisite for the surely of their King and themselves although they had resolved upon a number sufficient for that Legation yet they deferred to send away till they should understand who were nominated for the Lords of the other party to the end they might equall them in birth and quality That in the mean time lest they should be thought more negligent then became them in matter of such importance they had laid upon him the charge to come and signifie to her Majesty the opinion that was held in Scotland of the Articles framed at Chattesworth which the adversaries gave out to have been craved by her
ready to be restored to the Crown if the Queen his Mother break the Covenants agreed betwixt her and the Queen of England 10. That for his entertainment he should not only have the revenues which the Princes of Scotland in former times possessed but also the Rents and Offices belonging sometime to the Earl of Bothwel 11. And last that a convenient number of Hostages being all Noblemen and of those who have adhered to the Queen and solicited her delivery should enter in England to remain there for assurance of observing the conditions made both to the King of Scots and the subjects under his obedience and to the Queen of England for the peace and quiet of her dominions And that the said Hostages should be entered in England before the Queen of Scots shall be put to liberty These Articles delivered to them were answered the next day as followeth We have seen and considered the note of the Heads which we received from your Lordships for pacifying the controversies between the Queen our Soveraigns mother and the King her Son and his Subjects touching the Title of the Crown of Scotland if it be found that her dimission either was or may be lawfully revoked by her And therewithall having diligently perused our Commission and Instructions to know how far we might enter in Treaty upon the same Heads for satisfaction of the Queens Majesty and your Lordships to whom the hearing of the cause is committed We find our selves no ways able nor sufficiently authorised to enter into any treaty or conference touching the King our Soveraign his Crown the abdication or diminution of the same or yet the removing of his person from the place where he abideth For as we confesse our selves his Highnesse subjects and have all our power and Commission from him to treat in his name in matters tending to the maintenance of true Religion his honour and estate and for the continuance of amity betwixt the two Realms So we cannot presume to abuse our Commission in any thing that may prejudge him wherein we trust your Lordships shall allow and approve us At the same time some others were appointed to conferre with those of his Mothers party And to them it was proposed that for the security of the Queen of England and the Noblemen that followed the King of Scots the Duke of Chatteller ault with the Earls of Huntley Argile the Lord Home and any other Nobleman they pleased to name should be delivered as pledges and the Castles of Dumbar and Home be put in the hands of English men to be kept for three years The answer they gave was that she who of her own motive committed her self to the protection of the Queen of England would most willingly give her satisfaction in all things which conveniently might be done but to deliver those great men and the Fortresses required was no other thing but to spoil and deprive the distressed Queen of the succour of her most faithful friends and the strength of those places yet if in all other points they did agree they made offer that two Earls one whereof should be of the number nominated and two Lords should enter as Hostages and remain in England for the space of two years but for the Holds and Castles they could not because of the League with France put them in the hands of English men unlesse others were put also in the hands of the French The Queen of England perceiving that there were on both sides great impediments sent for the Kings Commissioners and told them how she had considered that the Articles proponed could not be resolved but in a Parliament and therefore leaving the Treaty for a time seeing she understood there was a meeting of the Estates appointed in May next she held it meetest they should return and in that meeting condescend upon an equal number of both parties that should have power to compose matters The Abstinence in the mean time being renewed in hope that all differences should be taken away and matters peaceably agreed This she would cause signify to the Agents of their Queen and doubted not but they would assent thereto yet when it was moved unto them they refused to agree to any delay till they should know what was her own mind Hereupon the Kings Commissioners were commanded to stay till her Answer should be returned In this time the Bishop of Galloway and the Lord Levingston trusting to speed better by conference with the Earl of Morton and the rest sent to desire a meeting of them which was yielded unto provided the Bishop of Ross came not in their company for him they would not admit as being the Kings Rebel Having met they talked kindly one to another But that the Queen should be restored to her authority in no condition though divers were proponed could be admitted which when she heard and that the Queen of England had taken a course to delay things she grew into a great choler and inhibited her Commissioners to treat any more This reported to the Queen of England she sent for the Earl of Morton and his Associates and told him that their Queen took in evil part the motion she had made And seeing it is so saith she I will not detain you longer ye shall go home and if afterwards she be brought to agree to this course as I hope she shall I have no doubt but you will for your parts do that which is fitting Thus were they dimitted Whilest these things were doing in England the factions at home notwithstanding of the Abstinence were not idle but taking their advantage of others Lord Claud Hamilton ejecting the Lord Semple his servant forth of the house of Paslay placed therein a number of souldiers and by them kept all these parts in in fear The Regent upon this gathering some forces besieged the house and had it rendered to him within a few days The Souldiers were conveyed to Edinburgh and hanged on the Gallows without the Town Not long after upon intelligence that the Castle of Dunbarton was negligently kept and might easily be surprised he sent three companies under the command of Captain Crawford Captain Home and Captain Ramsey to give the attempt Ladders and other necessaries for scaling being prepared they went thither in the night conducted by a fellow that had served in the house and as then had quit his service upon a private discontent A little before day carrying the ladders with the least noise they could make they placed the same in the most commodious part for ascent and notwithstanding of sundry difficulties that happened got up in the end to the top of the Rock There having a wall of stone likewise to climbe Captain Alexander Ramsey by a ladder which they drew up after them was the first that entered and for a short space defended himself against three watchmen that assailed him Crawford and Home following quickly with their companies the
hold The other concerned an Ambassage which he intended to send into England For the Parliament he said that he longed to see a meeting of the Estates and would have the time to which it was called precisely observed wishing them all to addrâ—sse themselves thereto in time and to come in a peaceable manner as men disposed to do good and seeking the common profit of their countrey And for the place seeing his own presence was necessary and that he could not conveniently remove from Striveling he desired the Parliament to be fenced at Edinburgh at the day appointed and then prorogated some four or five days and brought to Striveling For the Ambassage he gave divers reasons First that having assumed the government in his own hands he was bound in courtesie to visit the Queen of England and give her thanks for the kindnesse he had received of her in his minority Next that the disorder lately fallen out in the borders for about that time some borderers had entred into England and committed great robberies laid a necessity upon him to clear the countrey of that fact and make offer of redresse Thirdly that he had a private business which touched him nearly his Grandmother the Lady Lennox being newly deceased and he being her only heir it concerned him he said to inquire what her last will was and to see that no prejudice was done to him in his succession to the lands she possessed in England Lastly if they did think meet but this he remitted to their wisdomes he shewed that he could like well to have a motion made of a more strict league betwixt the two Realms during the Queens life and his It grieved the ordinary Counsellours much that the place of Parliament should be changed who therefore laboured to disswade the King from it but perceiving him resolved that way they gave their consents though most unwillingly When they came to speak of the Ambassage to England they acknowledged the necessity thereof but took exception at the league pretending the ancient league with France It was replied That the case of things was much altered from that in former times that England and Scotland had now the same enemies because of their common profession so as for their own safety it was needful they should joyn together in strict friendship and that the league with England might be so contracted as the old amity with France should remain inviolate The King further declared that he did not mean to give power to his Ambassadour for concluding a league wherein he would do nothing rashly nor without the advice of the Estates only be desired the same should be moved and upon the report of the Queens liking thereof that the conditions of the league should be well and gravely advised After long reasoning the matter being put unto voices it was by plurality agreed that the same should be made one of the Ambassadours instructions against which the Earls of Argile Montross and Cathnes the Lords Lindesay and Innermaith with the Commendatary of Deir took publick protestation These things bred a new heart-burning amongst the Noblemen for they took Morton to be deviser of all and that he was craftily drawing back the administration of affairs unto himself which albeit they dissembled for the present brake forth after a few days in an open dissension The Citizens of Edinburgh were much offended with the Kings remaining in Striveling and the remove of the Parliament from their town and as it happeneth in such times of discontent rumors were dispersed that the King was detained captive and was shortly to be sent into England and the ancient league with France dissolved This being in the mouthes of all men and talked of not in corners but in open and publick meetings a Proclamation was given out the sixth of Iuly Declaring the falshood of those rumors and that the same were raised by some seditious spirits that could not live quiet under any sort of government for as to the Kings detention it was known to be most false and that it was his own choice to remain at Striveling attended by those whom the Councel by common consent had appointed for the safe custody of his person And for the Parliament which they said was to treat of the dissolution of peace with their old confederates and to make up new leagues with others there was no such matter it being his Majesties only purpose to have such things intreated in that meeting as might tend to the advancement of Gods honour the safety of his Royal person and the establishment of good laws for the quietnesse of the Realm Whereof if any made doubt they might be resolved at their coming to the Parliament which was now approaching Therefore were all good subjects advertised not to believe those seditious reports nor suffer themselves to be led by such wicked suggestions into rebellion This declaration prevailed little with the most part for the mindes of men were much exasperated And the time of Parliament come the Lords that remained at Edinburgh took counsel not to go thither but to send of their number one or two to protest against the lawfulnesse of it The Earl of Montross and Lord Lindesay were chosen to that purpose who coming to Striveling shew the King the Noblemens excuse and declared all they had in Commission to say wishing his Majesty to prorogate the Parliament unto a better time and make choice of a fitter place But he resolved by the counsel of those that were present to go on and coming the next day which was the 16th of Iuly to the great Hall where the Estates were advertised to meet he made a short speech touching the liberty of Parliaments and the necessity he had to keep one at that time and in that place assuring all persons who had any thing to move or propone that they should have free accesse and receive satisfaction according to Justice After the King had closed his speech the Earl of Montross and Lord Lindesay arose and in the name of the Councel and others of the Nobility adhering to them protested against the lawfulnesse of the Parliament in so far as it was kept within the Castle whither they could not safely repair the same being in the enemies power The King offended with the protestation commanded them to keep their lodgings and not to depart forth of Striveling without his licence which the Lord Lindesay obeyed but Montross the next day early in the morning went away and returned to Edinburgh where it was given out that he had brought from the King a secret direction to the Lords to convene the subjects in Arms and liberate him out of Mortons hands Thereupon a Declaration was published bearing that his Majesty having assumed the government in his own person because of the enormities committed in the time of Mortons Regiment had appointed the Councel to remain at Edinburgh for the better ministration of Justice
howers after sun-rising and so homewards This fell out the 13 of Aprill 1596. The Queen of England having notice sent her of what was done stormed not a little one of her chief Castles surprised a prisoner taken forth of the hands of the Warden and carried away so far within England she esteemed a great affront The Lieger M. Bows in a frequent Convention kept at Edinburgh the â—2 of May did as he was charged in a long Oration aggravate the hainousness of the fact concluding that peace could not longer continue betwixt the two Realms unless Baclugh were delivered in England to be punished at the Queens pleasure Baclugh compiering and charged with the fact made answer That he went not into England with intention to assault any of the Queens houses or to do wrong to any of her Subjects but onely to relieve a subject of Scotland unlawfully taken and more unlawfully detained That in the time of a generall assurance in a day of truce he was taken prisoner against all order neither did he attempt his relief till redress was refused and that he had carried the business in such a moderate manner as no hostility was committed nor the least wrong offered to any within the Castle yet was he content according to the ancient treaties observed betwixt the two Realms when as mutuall injuries were alleadged to be tryed by the Commissioners that it should please their Majesties to appoint and submit himself to that which they should decern The Convention esteeming the answer reasonable did acquaint the Ambassadour therewith and offered to send Commissioners to the borders with all diligence to treat with such as the Queen should be pleased to appoint for her part But she not satisfied with the answer refused to appoint any Commissioners whereupon the Councell of England did renue the complaint in Iuly thereafter and the business being of new agitated it was resolved of as before and that the same should be remitted to the triall of Commissioners the King protesting That he might with great reason crave the delivery of the Lord Scroop for the injury committed by his deputy It being less favourable to take a prisoner then relieve him that is unlawfully taken yet for the continuing of peace he would forbear to do it and omit nothing on his part that could be desired either in equity or by the laws of friendship The borderers in the mean time making daily incursions one upon another filled all their parts with trouble the English being continually pâ—t to the worse neither were they made quiet till for satisfying the Queen the Laird of Baclugh was first committed in S. Andrews and afterwards entered in England where he remained not long At the same time for bringing the Isles to obedience Collonell Steward was imployed to levy 1000 men every shire furnishing 20 horsemen and 30 foot or so much money as would sustain them allowing the horsemen 24 pounds monthly and the foot 12 pound besides the supply of the free burghes These companies were appointed to meet at Dumbalton the 20 of August for aiding the King or his Lieutenant for the space of 40 days according to the customes and when the days were come were commanded to follow the Colonell as designed Lieutenant assigned by the King But upon the bruite of this expedition the principals of the Isles did all submit themselves offering obedience to appear before the King at the time his Majesty should appoint so that expedition ceased the Colonell going no further then Ila where he remained a few days and took assurance for their appearance In the March preceding the Assembly of the Church convened at Edinburgh for consulting upon the dangers threatned to religion by the invasion of the Spaniard which was then generally noised Some brethren directed to lay open the perils to his Majesty returned with this answer That albeit there was no great cause to fear any such invasion at that time yet they should do well to give their advice as if the danger were at hand which would serve when necessity did require The Assembly upon this thought meet to enter into consideration both of the dangers and remedies and first to enquire upon the causes that had provoked God to threaten the Realm with that tyrannous Nation to the end the same might be removed then to deliberate how by ordinary lawfull means the enemy should be resisted The causes they condescended to be sins of all estates and especially the sins of the Ministery which they held best should be penned and drawn to certain heads that the corruptions being laid open the remedies might be the better provided For this work some of the brethren were named set apart who after a day or two presented in writing a number of Articles touching the corruption of Ministers as well in their offices as in their lives and manners the offences in the Kings house in the Court and in the Judgment seats the defection and faults commune to all estates and the remedies which in their opinion were fit to be used The Assembly allowing their labours and acknowledging their own guiltiness in that which concerned themselves ordained a day of humiliation to be kept on Tuesday the week following by the Ministers that were there present for reconciling themselves to God and making up a new Covenant for the better discharge of their duties This is the Covenant that by some is so often objected and said to be violated by those that gave obedience to the Canons of the Church albeit in it there is not a word or syllable that sounds either to confirming of the Church government then in use or to the rejecting of that which since hath been established But when other Arguments fail them somewhat must be said to entertain the conceipts of the popular By this Covenant all did bind themselves to abide in the profession of the truth and to walk according to the same as God should enable them But for the rules of policy or ceremonies serving to good order or decency let inspection be taken of the Register which is extant and it shall plainly appear that at the time there was not so much as any mention thereof made But to proceed The advices they gave for resisting the practises of the enemy was That all who had kithed in action with the Popish Lords should enter their persons in ward till assurance was given that they should neither keep intelligence with the Rebels nor joyn with them in case they did return into the Countrey That the rents and livings of the Rebels should be uplifted for entertainment of souldiers and supporting other necessary affairs That in every Parish Captains should be chosen for the mustering and training of men in Armes and some Commanders in every Shire appointed for convening the County at needfull occasions Lastly that they who were Sureties for the good behaviour of the Rebels without the Realm
and not otherwise Some other Acts were concluded in the same Assembly as That in memory of his Majesties deliverance there should be Sermons in all the Burghs every Tuesday and the fifth of August solemnly kept as the Parliament had prescribed in all the Churches of the Kingdome That Ministers should not refuse the Sacrament of Baptisme to Infants nor delay the same upon whatsoever pretext the same being required by the parents or others in their name for as then except at ordinary hours of preaching Ministers denied to baptize And because they had taken a custome not to celebrate marriage upon the Sunday pretending that the day was profaned by feasting dancing and the like it was ordained They should hereafter at the parties desire celebrate the same either on the sunday or week day These things concluded and Commissioners chosen to attend the common affairs of the Church the Assembly dissolved having appointed the next meeting at Aberdene the last Tuesday of Iuly Anno 1604. All this time were the enemies of our Religion the Jesuits especially busied to stirre up a party against the King and his title to England They had lost all hope of gaining his affection or obtaining any promise of toleration when he should come to that Crown and had found their writings and pamphlets for the Infanta of Spain her right to move few or none Thereupon they fell to treat of a marriage betwixt Lady Arbella and Robert Prince of Savoy and that not succeeding to speak of a match betwixt her and a grandchilde of the Earl of Hartfords judging that their pretensions being conjoyned many would befriend them to the excluding of the King of Scots but the Queen who truly favoured his right though she would not openly professe so much dashed all those projects and caused an eye to be kept upon that Lady and such as resorted unto her About the same time the King had intelligence given him that one Francis Mowbray son to the Laird of Barnebowgall who had lived a while in the Infants Court at Bruxells had undertaken to kill him This brake out first at London by an Italian a fencer whose name was Daniel which coming to the Queens ears she commanded Sir Robert Cecill her Secretary to call the persons for they were both in the City and examine them the Italian abode by his speeches Mowbray denied and offered to prove him a lyar in combat which the other accepted Both being sent unto Scotland they were tried first severally then confronted before certain of the Councell the Italian produced Witnesses who verified all that he had deponed whereupon Mowbray was committed to the Castle of Edinburgh where seeking to escape by night at a window of the chamber where he was detained the sheets proving too short by which he thought to descend he fell from a great precipice and was found the next morning dead at the foot of the rock The corps was the same day being the last of Ianuary presented to the Justice and sentence of forfeiture pronounced against him his body hanged for a space upon the gibbet and afterwards quartered and affixed on the gates and most open places of the Town His friends for he was well born and a proper young Gentleman gave out that he had been strangled and his corps thrown down at the window But this carried no appearance and was believed of few The Queen of England in the winter being perceived to wax heavy and dull and the rumour thereof dispersed as there is nothing that can be worse concealed then the sickness or death of a Prince there was much business every where and she held for the most part dead The French King had sent the summer preceding two Ambassadors one to reside in England and another in Scotland under colour of impeaching the courses of Spain but in effect to observe the strength and affection of both people He that was sent into England brought a Letter from the French King to Secretary Cecill of infinite kindness and breaking with him one day upon the miseries of the Kingdome when it should please God to translate the Queen fell to speak of the losse he should sustain by the exchange and the case wherein he would be if the Scotish King did succeed which to his apprehension should be more hard and miserable then any others being likely to undergoe the revenge of faults laid upon his father about matters concerning the Kings mother and other courses that he was esteemed to have run himself since the death of his Father The Secretary that was no childe knowing that the Ambassador did but sound him for making some other project answered That this was the reward of unspotted duty when Ministers did only regard the service of their Soveraigns without respect of their own particular And that for himself he should never grieve to endure trouble for so just a cause the same being to a man that valued his credit more then his security a kinde of martyrdome notwithstanding he supposed that things passed would not be called to minde or if so were and that he saw his case desperate he should flee to another City and take the benefit of the Kings royall offer The Ambassador being so answered made a fair retreat saying That in case the King of Scots did carry himself towards the King of France with the respect which was due he was not purposed to impeach his interest The Secretary replying That it was a wise resolution his Master had taken The Ambassadour ceased to tempt him any further in that businesse Hereof the King was advertised by Letters from the Secretary who therein did assure him of his true and honest service when occasion required howbeit he would not as some others had done needlesly hazard his fortune and reputation before the time It shall not be amisse to hear what was the Kings answer to the Secretary As I doe heartily thank you said he for your plain and honest offer so may you assure your self that it would doe me no pleasure that you should hazard either your fortune or reputation since the losse of either of these would make you the lesse vailable to me No I love not to feed upon such fantasticall humours although I cannot let busie-bodies to live upon their own imaginations But for my part I hold it the office of a King as sitting on the throne of God to imitate the primum mobile and by his steady and ever constant course to govern all the other changeable and uncertain motions of the inferiour planets And I protest in Gods presence that for your constant and honest behaviour in your Soveraigns service I loved your virtues long before I could be certain that you would deserve at my hand the love of your person wherefore go on and serve her truly that reigneth as you have done for he that is false to the present will never be true to the future In another
to the Parliament of Scotland for the making of their shipping more proportionable in burthen to the shipping of England the better to serve for equality of trade and a common defence for the whole Isle And because it is requisite that the mutuall communication aforesaid be not only extended to matter of commerce but to all other benefits and priviledges of naturall born subjects it is agreed that an Act be proponed to be passed in manner following That all the subjects of both realms born since the decease of the late Queen and that shall be born hereafter under the obedience of his Majesty and of his Royall Progeny are by the Common laws of both realms and shall be for ever enabled to obtain succeed inherite and possess all goods lands and cattels honours dignities offices liberties priviledges and benefices Ecclesiasticall or Civill in Parliament and all other places of the kingdomes every one of the same in all respects and without any exception whatsoever as fully and amply as the subjects of either realm respectively might have done or may do in any sort within the kingdom where they are born Further whereas his Majesty out of his great judgement and providence hath not onely professed in publick and private speech to the Nobility and Councell of both but hath also vouchsafed to be contented that for a more full satisfaction and comfort of all his loving subjects it may be comprised in the said Act that his Majesty meaneth not to confer any office of the Crown any office of Judicature place voice or office in Parlâ—ament of either kingdome upon the subjects of the other born before the decease of the late Queen untill time and conversation have encreased accomplished an union of the said kingdomes as well in the hearts of all the people and in the conformity of laws and policies in these kingdoms as in the knowledge and sufficiency of particular men who being untimely imployed in such authorities could no way be able much less acceptable to discharge such duties belonging to them It is therefore resolved by us the Commissioners aforesaid not onely in regard of our desires and endevours to further the speedy conclusion of this happy work intended but also as a testimony of our love and thankfulness for his gracious promise on whose sincerity and benignity we build our full assurance even according to the inward sense and feeling of our own loyall and hearty affections to obey and please him in all things worthy the subjects of so worthy a Soveraign that it shall be desired of both the Parliaments to be enacted by their authority that all the subjects of both realmes born before the decease of the late Queen may be enabled and capable to acquire purchase inherit succeed use and dispose of all lands goods inheritances offices honours dignities liberties priviledges immunities benefices and preferments whatsoever each subject in either kingdome with the same freedome and as lawfully and peaceably as the very naturall and born subjects of either realm where the said rights estates or profits are established notwithstanding whatsoever law statute or former constitutions heretofore in force to the contrary other â—en to acquire possess succeed or inherit any office of the Crown office of Judicatory or any voice place or office in Parliament all which shall remain free from being claimed held or enjoyed by the subjects with the one kingdome within the other born before the decease of the late Queen notwithstanding any words sense or interception of the Act or any circumstance thereupon depending until there be such a perfect and full accomplishment of the union as is desired mutually by both the realms In all which points of reservation either in recitall of the words of his Majesties sacred promise or in any clause or sentence before specified from enabling them to any of the aforesaid places or dignities it hath been and ever shall be so far from the thoughts of any of us to presume to alter or impair his Majesties Prerogative royall who contrarywise do all with comfort and confidence depend herein upon the gracious assurance which his Majesty is pleased to give in the declaration of his so just and Princely care and favour to all his people as for a further laying open of our clear and dutifull intentions towards his Majesty in this and in all things else which may concern his prerogative we do also herein profess and declare that we think it fit there be inserted in the Act to be proponed and passed in express terms a sufficient reservation of his Majesties Prerogative royall to denizate enable and preferre to such offices honours dignities and benefices whatsoever in both the said kingdomes and either of them as are heretofore excepted in the preceding reservation of all English and Scottish subjects born before the decease of the late Queen as freely soveraignly and absolutely as any of his Majesties most noble progenitors or predecessors Kings of England or Scotland might have done at any time heretofore and to all other intents and purposes in as ample manner as no such Act had ever been thought of or mentioned And for as much as the severall jurisdictions and administrations of either realm may be abused by malefactors by their own impunity if they shall commit any offence in the one realm and afterwards remove their person and aboad unto the other It is agreed that there may be some fit course advised of by the wisdomes of the Parliaments for tryall and proceeding against the persons of offenders remaining in the one realm for and concerning the crimes and faults committed in the other realm And yet nevertheless that it may be lawfull for the Justice of the realm where the fact is committed to remand the offendor remaining in the other realm to be answerable unto justice in the same realm where the fact was committed and that upon such remand made the offender shall be accordingly delivered and all further proceeding if any be in the other realm shall cease so as it may be done without prejudice to his Majesty or other Lords in their Escheats and forfeitures with provision nevertheless that this be not thought necessary to be made for all criminall offences but in speciall cases onely as namely in the cases of wilfull murther falsifying of moneys and forging of Deeds Instruments and writings and such other like cases as upon further advice in the said Parliaments may be thought fit to be added These were the Articles agreed upon which written in their severall scrolls of Parchment were subscribed and sealed at Westminster the sixth of December by the Commissioners of both Parliaments and one thereof presented the same evening to his Majesty by the Earl of Salisbury who in name of the whole number there present having shewed what pains they had taken in that business and how after many conferences they were grown to the resolution contained in that scroll
work should more easily be effected if a beginning was made in Scotland did call a Parliament in August which was kept by Lodowick Duke of Lennox as Commissioner for his Majesty the Earl of Montrose being then deceased The Estates to satisfie the Kings desire did allow all the Articles concluded in the Treaty with a provision That the same should be in like manner ratified by the Parliament of England otherwise the conclusions taken should not have the strength of a law It was also declared that if the union should happen to take effect the Kingdome notwithstanding should remain an absolute and free Monarchy and the fundamentall laws receive no alteration But the Parliament of England either disliking the union as fearing some prejudice by it to their Estate or upon some other hidden cause did touch no more the business and so that good work tending to the advantage of both Kingdomes was left and quite deserted In the Church a new trouble was moved by the revolt that Huntley and the two Earls of Angus and Arroll made divers especially in the North parts falling away by their example This being represented to the King he gave order for calling an Assembly which convened at Linlithgow in the end of Iuly Therein the Earls of Dunbar Winton and Lothian sate Commissioners for the King The Bishop of Orkney elected to preside having shewed the occasion of the present meeting to be the growth and increase of Papists in all the quarters of the Kingdome it was thought meet to take up the names of those that made open profession of Popery and likewise of those that were suspected to favour the course that their number and forces being known the remedies might be the better advised and provided The number was found to very great chiefly in the North and the Marquis of Huntley delated by all as the only cause of the defection in those bounds he being cited to appear before the Assembly under the pain of excommunication and neither compeiring nor sending any excuse was ordained to be excommunicated and the sentence accordingly pronounced in the hearing of the whole Assembly This was appointed to be intimated in all the Churches and no absolution given upon whatsoever offers in regard of his manifold apostasies without the advice of the general Church The like course was concluded to be kept with Angus Arroll and the Lord Semple how soon the processes intended against them were brought to an end This done the Assembly began to rip up the causes of the defection more narrowly which they found to proceed from the Ministers in a part their negligence in teaching and catechising of people the too suddain admission of young men into the Ministery and the distraction of mindes among those that are admitted for remedy whereof it was ordained as followeth First that they should apply themselves to the exercise of their function with greater diligence then they were accustomed and take a speciall care of young children to see them instructed in the Belief the Lords prayer and ten Commandements whereof they should examine every childe at the age of six years and yearly enquire of their profiting and increase in knowledge 2 That some longer time should be prescrived for the admission of men to the Ministery and the exceptions contained in the Act of the age of Ministers to be admitted reserved to the cognition of the Generall Assembly 3 That they use a greater diligence in the processing of Papists and that none out of corrupt favour should grant them any oversight under the pain of deposition 4 That all who carried office in the Church should be carefull to eschew offences and endevour to keep love and peace among themselves 5 And for the present distractions in the Church seeing the same did arise partly from a diversity of opinions touching the externall government of the Church and partly from divided affections the last of these two being the most dangerous as not suffering the brethren to unite themselves against the common enemy they were all in the fear of God exhorted to lay down whatsoever grudge or rancour they had conceived and to be reconciled in heart and affection one to another Which all that were present did faithfully promise by the holding up their hands But the fault not being in the Ministers alone and seen to proceed from other causes also as from the oversight of Jesuits and Priests and their entertainment in the Countrey the preferment of men to publick offices that were suspected in Religion the favour shewed to Papists by them in places of chief authority Masie Priests admitted without his Majesties warrant and no security taken for their not returning Licences granted to Noblemens sons for going abroad and their education trusted to men of contrary profession advocation to the Councell of matters properly belonging to the Ecclesiasticall Judicatories and the lack of Preachers in many parts of the land It was concluded that certain Petitions should be formed and presented to his Majesty by some selected Commissioners for remedying these evils which were formed in this manner First that an humble supplication should be made by the whole Assembly intreating his Majesty not to permit any Papist or suspected of Popery to bear charge in Councell Session or in any Burgh or City and where his Majesty did know any such to occupie these places humbly to crave that order might be taken for their removing 2 That the laws made against Papists should receive execution and no favour be granted unto them by the Officers of State with a prohibition to the Councell to meddle in affairs Ecclesiasticall or to discharge the processes led by Ministers against Papists and others contemners of Church discipline 3 That Papists abjuring their Religion in hope of preferment to Offices of State should not be admitted thereto till they had given five years probation at least 4 That the sons of Noblemen professing Popery should be committed to the custody of such of their friends as are sound in Religion 5 That a Commission should be granted to every Bishop within his Dioces and to such well affected Noblemen Barons and Gentlemen as the Commissioners of the Assembly should nominate for apprehending of Jesuits Seminary Priests excommunicated Papists and traffiquers against Religion 6 That the Searchers of ships should seise upon all Books that are brought unto the Countrey and present them to the Ministers of the Town where the ships shall happen to arrive 7 That excommunicate Papists be put in close prison and none have accesse unto them but such as are known to be of sound Religion 8 That the Deputies of excommunicates be not suffered to enjoy any office under them and that some others be appointed by his Majesty to serve in their places 9 Finally that his Majesty should be humbly intreated to plant the unprovided Churches especially the Churches of the Chappel Royall with competent Stipends The
conceived by his death This following penned by a learned Divine in our vulgar language did affect me so as I thought good to subjoin it ALL who have eyes awake and weep For he whose waking wrought our sleep Is fallen asleep himself and never Shall wake again till wak'd for ever Deaths iron handhath clos'd those Eyes Which were at once three Kingdoms spies Both to foresee and to prevent Dangers as soon as they were meant That Head whose working brain alone VVrought all mens quiet but its own Now lies at rest O let him have The peace he lent us in his grave If that no Naboth all his Reign Was for his fruitfull vineyard slain If no Vriah lost his life Because he had too fair a wife Then let no Shimei's curses wound His honour or profane his ground Let no black-mouth'd no rank-breath'd cur Peacefull JAMES his Ashes stir Princes are Gods ô doe not then Rake in their graves to prove them men For two and twenty years long care For providing such an Heir VVho to the peace we had before May adde twice two and twenty more For his daies travels and nights watches For his craz'd sleep stoln by snatches For two fair Kingdoms joyn'd in one For all he did or meant t' have done Doe this for him write on his dust IAMES the Peacefull and the Iust. The End A brief Table directing to the Principall Matter of this HISTORY A St. Andrews made an University by the Bishop of the place procuring it Page 57 Made an Archiepiscopal See 58 Aidanus in Northumberland within seven dayes after his first arrival converteth and baptizeth 15000 14 Augustine The King of Northumberland with an army by instigation as was supposed of Augustine the Monk slayeth 1200 Monks that refused to receive the Rites of Rome 12 Alcuinus born in Scotland 22 B BIshop The ancient manner of a Bishop in Scotland 4 Anciently in Scotland all the moveable goods of any Bishop belonged to the King and were seized for his use 55 An English Army put to flight by a Bishop 99 A Bishop went on foot through the whole Kingdome preaching the Gospel wheresoever he came 108 The ancient variance between the Scots and Holland reconciled by a Bishop 105 The difference between Iames III. of Scotland and Lewis XI of France reconciled principally by the prudence of a Bishop ibid. A Bishop barbarously maimed by an Earl in the Kings absence and the Justice done upon him for it 40 110 A very pious Bishop lived to the age of 185 years 112 Iohn Dury a reformed Minister at his death giveth advice to the Assembly of the Church to restore the Episcopal government 457 Bishops restored in the Church and to their temporalities in Scotland 496 Cautions whereby the Episcopal power was moderated in Scotland 501 Scottish Bishops came to England for consecration 514 Colman a Scottish Bishop disswadeth by his great authority the Nobility of Scotland from deposing their King 19 Buchannan by his verses he incenseth the Franciscans 67 His death 525 Benefices the temporality of them annexed to the Crown 365 Bothwell in open Rebellion is encouraged by the English Ambassadors 402 The King would have it inserted into the Acts of the Church that Ministers shall make publick declaration in the Church the Sunday following after they have baptized any privately first refused 529 After passed by the Church 539 C CArdinals by the Popes Law the placeâ—s are to be ruinated where Cardinals are slain 88 Charles after King of Great Britain born 461 His Journey to Spain 544 His return 545 A Letter to him from Gregory XV. then being Suitor in the Spanish Court 544 Church A form of Church-policy presented to the Convention of Estates at Edinburgh drawn up by Knox 152 The Church and Regent cross one the others proceedings 271 A model of Church-policy presented to the Parliament at Striveling 289 The Church appointeth a Fast on the same day that the King appointeth a Feast for the entertainment of the French Ambassador with a design to cross the King 322 The Assembly of the Church protest against the Kings judging in Causes Ecclesiastical the Councel of State reject the Protestation 318 Contentions between the King and Church 319 They allow not the Councel authority to judge of Treason spoken by them in the Pulpit 330 The Ministers yield more to the desires of the basest people then to reasonable Propositions of the King 394 They provide a Chaplain of their own interest for Bothwell endevouring Rebellion 402 They refuse to submit their doctrine to the triall of the King and Councel 420 They style the Queen of England Elizabeth an Atheist in their Sermons 419 422 One of them affiâ—med in his Sermon that it is lawful for subjects to take arms against their King 430 They sollicite the Lord Hamilton and people to take arms 431 Articles proposed in the form of Question by the King concerning affairs of the Church 435 The bosome of the Church ought alwaies to be open to Penitents 437 The Assembly vote that it is lawfull for Ministers to sit in Parliament 449 Some of them refuse to give thanks in their Churches for the Kings deliverance from the attempts of Gowrie 460 Catholikes are dispensed from Rome to profess or swear against their religion so as in minde they continued firme 308 Covenant is taken by the Ministers obliging them to a better discharge of their duty 416 A Scottish prisoner rescued out of the Castle of Carlisle by a strange attempt 414 A strange event at a Councel held in Wiltsh 27 The Charity of a certain man saved his life 462 Conference at Hampton Court 478 Another Conference there between Scottish Bishops and Ministers of the Presbytery 497 D DRuids what they were 3 Are expelled by Cratilinth 3 The Diocese of Dunkeld divided into two Bishopricks 98 The Synod of Dort in Holland 540 Did not ratifie the Acts of Perth ibid. E A Controversie between six Competitors for the Crown of Scotland referred to the arbitration of Edward I of England 48 England the two Kingdomes of England and Scotland united upon the intended marriage of Edward VI. being about five years old and Mary daughter of Scotland being about one year old 72 That Contract broken by Scotland 73 The King of Scots with many of his Nobles swear subjection to Edward I. of England at Newcastle 49 The King of Scots and the Parliament of Scotland convened at Berwick do homage to the King of England ibid. The King of England refuseth to stand to the Popes judgement 50 The Earls and Barons of Scotland in a Parliament at S. Andrewes swear obedience the third time to the King of England ib. The Scottish Lords of the Congregation have aid from England 140 The Articles of Contract between England and Scotland 142 Scottish Bishops come to England to be consecrated 514 Easter The ancient manner of observing it in Scotland not the same with that of the Roman 15
Bishops of Argyle An. 1289. The Bishops of the Isles The Nobles and Barons resolve upon a Reformation An. 1558. An act for publick service History of the Church The Clergy complaining to Queen Regent The Bishop of S. Andrewes letter to the Earl of Argyle The Earl of Argyle his answer The feast of S. Giles The procession disturbed by a tumulâ—◠〈…〉 Supplication to Queen Regent for 〈◊〉 Petitions for reformation The Queens answer A dispute offered by the Clergy and accepted by the Congregation Ridiculous conditions offered to the Petitioners Articles presented by the Congregation to the Parliament Queen Regent stayeth the presenting of the Articles The Protestation made by those that desired Reformation The Protestation refused to be inserted in the records The Queens countenance changed towards the Congregation An. 1559. Ministers cited to appear at Striveling Commissions directed to the Queen Reformation begun at Perth The Queen Regent dealeth with the Lord of Dun to stay the contentions of people Iohn Knox joyneth with the Congregation at Perth The Monasteries demolished at Perth The Images pulled down at Couper in Fise Queen Regent intendeth to surprise Perth The Earle of Glencarne cometh to assist the town An accord mediated by the Earle of Argile and Lord Iames. The conditions of the accord Queen Regent entreth into Perth The Articles of peace violated The Earle of Argile and Lord Iames forsake the Regent Iohn Knox in a sermon preached at Craill perswadeth the expulsion of the French Images pulled down at Crail and Austruther The Monasteries of S. Andrewes demolished Proclamation to meet the Queen at Couper The Lords of the Congregation prevent her The meeting at Couper moore The estate of the Queens Army A treaty for peace The French required to be â—mitted The truce accorded The town of Perth complaineth of their oppressions The Lords be siege Perth Perth yeelded upon Composition The Abbey of Scone demolished The Abbey of Cambuskehneth ruined Images and Altars pulled down at Linlithgow and Edinburgh A Proclamation by Queen Regent Rumours dispersed to the prejudice of the Congregation The Lords purge themselve to the Queen The Proclamation of the Lords The Lairds of Pittarrow and Cunningham-head sent to the Queen The Queens desire to speak with the Earl of Argyle and the Lord Iames. The Lords suspecting some practice refuse to send the Noblemen A meeting at Preston The answer of the Lords to the condition proponed News of the French Kings death The Queen prepareth to enter into Edinburgh The Articles of the Truce The Lords depart to Striveling The Queen desireth the Church of S. Giles for the exercise of Masse The Magistrates answer The French Captains and souldiers trouble the people in hearing the Sermon A letter to Lord Iames from King Francis Another letter from the Queen of Scots to Lord Iames. The answer given by Lord Iames. A French Captain called Octavian arriveth with a regiment of souldiers The Queen maketh to fortifie Leth. The Earle of Arrane joynes with the Lords at Striveling A letter directed to the Queen from the Lords A letter sent by them to the Lord Ereskin Sr. Robert Carnagie and Mr. David Borthuick directed to the Duke A Proclamation given forth by the Queen The Queen seeketh to disunite the Lords The perswasions used Lord Iames his Answer A Proclamation by the Queen declaring her purpose in the fortifying of Leth. The Bishop of Amiens and some Doctors of Sorbon active at Leth. A declaration published by the Lords The Lords come to Edinburgh and write unto the Queen The Duke purgeth himself and his son of any aspiring The Herald directed to the Lords The credit given to the Herald by the Queen The Lords deliberate upon discharging the Queen of her Regency The opinion of the Preachers required Master Willock his opinion Iohn Knox his sentence The Preachers ought not to have medled in that busines The examples they brought did not warrant their opinion Act depriving Queen Regent of her government The Herald dimitted and the Act intimated to the Queen by letters from the Lords The town of Leth summoned Moneys failing they sent to borrow from England The Laird of Ormston surprised by Bothwel and spoiled of his money The house of Creichion on taken The Provost of Dundy put to flight by the souldiers at Leth. A conflict betwixt the Scots and French Secretary Lethington forsaketh the Queen Regent The Lords leave Edinburgh and the French possesse the Town The Queen sendeth for new forces from France The Lords send to England for a supply Altars and Images demolished at Glasgow The Bishop recovereth the Castle Commissions sent unto England A supply granted and the Duke of Norfolk sent to treat of the conditions The French resolve to make an end of the warre before the English be prepared An encounter with the French at Pitticurre The Lords came to Dysert to stay the progrâ—sse of the French The Laird of Grange defeats a company of the French Commissioners sent to treat with Norfolk The contract with England The French souldiers upon sight of the Navy return to Leth. Divers houses in Fiâ—e taken by the Lord. An. 1560. The Cathedral of Aberdene saved by the Earl of Huntlâ—y Pledges sâ—nt to the Admiral of England The English forces enter into Scotland Queen Regent entereth into the Castle of Edinburgh A letter from the Lords to the Queen Regent The English General intreateth the Queen to dimit the French The first conflict of the siege of Leth. The situation of the Scottish and English Camp The French entered into the English trenches where divers were killed A fire in the town of Leth The English thinking to scale the walls are repulsed The offer of the French King to the Queen of England The Queens answer Sir William Cecill and Doctor 〈◊〉 sent to mediate an agreement Queen Regent sickneth and dieth She conferreth with the Lords before her death Qâ—een Regent her just commen lations The malice â— of the author of the story called Iohn Knox his history A truce taken upon the death of the Queen Regent Conditions of the peace The French embark and the Army of England departeth The Ministers distributed amongst the Burghs A Parliament and the lawfulnesse thereof questioned The Clergy offended with the election of the Lords of the Articles Petitions proponed in favour of the Reformers The Confession of Faith put in form and presented The Confession approved The Popes authority abolished The Lord Torpichen directed to France The Earles Morton and Glencarn sent into England The French King dieth Mr Iohn Lesly sent from the French faction to perswade the Queens return Lord Iames by the Noblemen of the Reformation to the same end The Queen resolveth to return An ambassage from France Morton and Glencam return from England A form of Church policy The advertisement of the Archbishop of St. Andrewes sent to Iohn Knox. A direction for demolishing Cloysters and Abbey Churches All the Churches under this pretext spoyled and defaced
Theology to which by the guidance of Gods Spirit over him he stood most affected But matters of Religion being at that time in his Countrey like the eddies of waters rowling and confused the old way questioned and the new persecuted none knowing in this turning tyde which wayes the times would run he withdrew himself into England where bringing with him an unsetled mind and doubtfull what party he should incline to Providence cast him upon a familiarity with Archbishop Cranmer who soon confirm'd him in those truths which afterward he never varied from About the time of the death of King Iames the fift he returned into Scotland whereby occasion given by the Earl of Glencarn to whom he had applied himself he became known to Matthew Earl of Lennox who finding him a person judicious and discreet and fitted by these qualities for managing of business emploied him to Henry the eight of England when France upon some jealousies was so unkind to him as to cast him off Affaires upon this succeeding to the Earl of Lennox his mind the Earl came into England with whom some moneths he there remained But longing to see the smoak of his own Countrey he returned once more to enjoy himself among his friends where being known to Sir Iames Sandilands of Calder a person of great authority in those times he was moved by him to accept of the Parsonage of Calder which upon the beginning of the Reformation was then void Not long after this he was made Super-intendent of Lothian Merse and Teviot-dale where he exercised fully the power and discharged faithfully the Office of a Bishop though under another style For it was not the Office but the name which the first Reformers out of humor startled at though they who have succeeded them for in errors of this kinde the last comers think they have done nothing unless they out-bid the former have since to their own ruin cast out both He continued in this holy function with the approbation of all good men till his death when being full of days and leaving the persume of a good name behinde him he peaceably departed out of this life on the fift of December in the year 1585. His Wife was Beatrix Crichton a grave and a discreet Matron daughter to the Laird of Lugton an ancient Baron of Scotland And from these Parents Iohn Spotiswood the Author of this History descended Born he was in the year of our Lord 1565 when he was no sooner brought into the World but a remarkable passage accompanied it For among the rest that were present not ordinary Gossipers but women of good note there was one among them who in a sober though in a prophetick fit taking the childe in her armes called aloud to the rest in these or the like tearms You may all very well rejoyce at the birth of this childe for he will become the Prop and Pillar of this Church and the main and chief instrument in the defending of it From what principle this praediction came or how she was thus inspired I will not search into but that her words came really to pass may evidently appear to him that reads this short story of his life His education was answerable to his birth for being a child of a pregnant wit great spirit and good memory he was by the care of his parents brought up in the University of Glasgow where he came so early to perfection that he received his degrees in the sixteenth year of his age for though the fruits of the earth under that Northern Clime do not mature so soon the men generally are of a better mold and mellow as early into a ripeness as any of those Nations who because they have more of the Sun plead for a priority forgetting that some kinde of grain are ripened best by Frosts And this so many excellent men of all sorts as have been of that Nation are so many examples of But to revert to this one among the rest who having laid his foundation in humane Arts and Sciences did not make his period there but used them as the rundles of a ladder by which he might climbe higher to the knowledge of diviner things to the practise of which by way of charge he was sooner called then he expected for his father being by age and weakness of body unable to appear any more in publick none was thought fitter to succeed in the Parsonage of Calder then his son though otherwise in a well-govern'd Church his age being then but eighteen might in an ordinary course have been a barre against him but his early parts and his conscientious diligence in attending this cure supplied his defect of years and the greenness of his youth was corrected and tempered by so sober a gravity as no man could either despise his youth or think him unfit for the employment Nor were these virtues of his buried and confined within the boundaries of his Parish for having formerly had a relation to the Noble family of Lennox he was looked upon as the fittest person of his quality to attend Lodowick Duke of Lennox as his Chaplain in that honourable Ambassy to Henry the fourth of France for confirming the ancient amity between both the Nations wherein he so discreetly carried himself as added much to his reputation and made it appear that men bred up in the shade of learning might possibly endure the Sun-shine and when it came to their turnes might carry themselves as handsomely abroad as they whose education being in a more pragmatick way usually undervalue them In the retinue of this Noble Person he returned from France through England where Queen Elizabeth being in her declining age was in his Masters name saluted by this Ambassadour who seeing her night draw on so fast could the easier guess that his Masters rising in this Horizon was not then far off Some two years after this Queen Elizabeth after the glorious reign of fourty four years by her death made way for King Iames her successor and when all the World stood at gaze what would become of the Crown of England which the Jesuit under the name of Dolman had bandied over into Spain and some of the contrary extreme were then in consultation though upon different purposes to make a game of it at home there was a diviner hand of Providence which so unexpectedly ordered it that without any contest at all it settled on the right heir to the admiration of the neighbouring Nations and had we known our own good to the infinite happiness of this This King being to take possession of his hereditary Crown here chose out for his attendants the most eminent persons of all kindes and among his Clergy this Author being then no farther advanced then to his Cure of Calder was summoned to this service That year Iames Beaton Archbishop of Glasgow dying the King who being of excellent parts himself could the better discover and value them in others not only
great Place and Parts he was not easily tempted to trouble the Press and to shew himself abroad Nor was this History undertaken by him by any free motion of his own but by the instance and command of King Iames whose discerning spirit had singled out him as a person best qualified for an Historian with Prudence and Candor and clearness of style and so much innocent courage as neither to fear to speak the Truth nor to dare to speak a Lie And though his obedience to the Commands of his Soveraign had a very powerful influence upon him yet being to deal with a King who made not his Will his Law but being a great Master of Reason was as ready to hear as to give it he took the liberty in an humble way to propound several Objections one of which more especially deserves to be remembred not onely for the Historians sake but for his that set him on work and it was thus It is not unknown to your Majesty saith the Bishop being willing enough to finde an hansom excuse that your Majesties Mother being defamed by the bold Writings of a malicious Party and the credulity of easie people who to avoid the trouble of searching into them use to swallow such Reports as these without chewing hath not left a clear name behinde her And as in mine own paâ—ticular judgement I cannot joyn with them in those Scandals which they have with so malicious a falshood cast upon her so your Majesty must give me leave to say that in all things she did I cannot approve her And being of necessity to speak of her in the Series of this History what to do therein I know not To whom the King replied Speak the Truth man and spare not And upon this encouragement from so excellent a King which few of the Rulers of this present world dare give to their Historians he chearfully set about this Work and laying aside all Partialities that he might more faithfully go through with it he had not onely the use of all the Registers both of Church and State in Scotland but of all Letters of State that could any way concern the Work he was about which either were sent to him to be survey'd by his own eyes or transcribed by sworn Officers and attested by the Clerks hands With this caution and with these advantages he undertook continued and finish'd this History as the Intervals of publick business and his own private Studies and Devotions would give him leave And the Work being of that nature as not to be Res Ingenii and to be woven out of his own Brain but such as required search and deliberation and such helps as were not alwayes ready at command but were to be waited for let not the Reader wonder that this History begun by King Iames command should not come into the world till both King Iames was in his grave and the Writer too but let him rather wonder that it comes out now for it was left like an Infant of the Israelites in an Ark of Reeds and if Providence had not found out very tender hands and heart to save it it had been lost And now it is time to bring this Reverend Prelat to his grave though his good name and story may be longer lived The manner of his burial by the command and care of his religious King was solemnly ordered for the corps being attended by many mourners and at least 800 Torches and being brought neer the Abbey Church of Westminster the whole Nobility of England and Scotland then present at Court with all the Kings servants and many Gentlemen came out of their Coaches and conveied the body to the West-dore where it was met by the Dean and Prebendaries of that Church in their Clerical habits and buried according to the solemn Rites of the English Church before the extermination of decent Christian burial was come in fashion Above his Corps these words following are engraven in brass MEMORIAE SACRUM DOMINUS JOANNES SPOTISWOOD ECCLESIAE SANCTI ANDREAE ARCHIEPISCOPUS SCOTIAE PRIMAS ET REGNI CANCELLARIUS VIGINTI ANNOS PRESBYTER UNDECEM ANNOS ARCHIEPIS COPUS GLASGOENSIS VIGINTI QUIN QUE ANNOS S. ANDREAE ET PER QUATUOR ANNOS REGNI SCOTIAE CANCELLARIUS EX HAC VITA IN PACE MIGRAVIT ANNO DOMINI 1639 SEXTO CALENDAS DECEMBRIS REGNI CAROLI 15. AETATIS SUAE 74. PRAESUL SENATOR pene MARTYR hìc jacet Quo nemo Sanctior Gravior Constantior Pro Ecclesia pro Rege pro Recta Fide Contra Sacrilegos Perduelles Perfidos Stetit ad extremum usque Vitae Spiritum Solitumque talium Meritorum Praemium Diras Rapinas Exiliumque pertulit Sed hac in Urna in Ore Posterum in Deo Victor potitur Pace Fama Gloria D. M. The Authors Dedication To The High Mighty Monarch Charles by the grace of God King of Great Brittaine France Ireland Defender of the Faith Per Ecclesiam Petor To the KING His most Sacred Majesty CHARLES By the Grace of God King of Great Britain France and Ireland Defender of the Faith c. MOST DREAD SOVERAIGN THere is not amongst men a greater help for the attaining unto wisdome then is the reading of History We call Experience a good Mistris and so she is but as it is in our Scottish Proverb It seldome quits the cost History not so it teacheth us at other mens cost and carrieth this advantage more that in a few hours reading a man may gather moe Instructions out of the same then twenty men living successively one after another can possibly learn by their own experience Therefore hath History by all wise men been ever held in good estimation and none thought to deserve better of the Church and State wherein they lived then they that have taken the pains to record unto Posterity the things fallen forth in their dayes For there is no new thing under the Sun what hath been or is the same also shall be saith the Preacher To know the success and event of every course there needs onely the knowledge of things past and a fit comparing of them with the present Now this knowledge is chiefly got by History The want whereof hath bred in our Church many strange mistakings For did men understand how things went at our Reformation and since that time they would never have been moved to think that Episcopacy was against the Constitutions of this Church One of the first things done in it being the placing of Superintendents with Episcopal Power in the same and no act so often iterated in the General Assemblies of the Church as that Ministers should be obedient to their Superintendents under pain of deprivation Then for the Consistorial Discipline brought from Geneva some sixteen years after the Reformation did men know the troubles raised thereby both in the Church and State with the necessity that your Majesties Father of blessed Memory was put to for Reforming that confused Government they would never
magnifie nor cry it up as they do To remedy this want and let all that desire to be truly informed of things fallen out in our times I took the pains to collect this History which I do now humbly present unto Your Sacred Majesty If the same shall be graciously accepted as I cannot but presume upon Your accustomed humanity to all I have that I desire for with me it is a small thing to be judged of others God knoweth I have followed the Truth and studied to observe the Laws of History The Collection premitted in the two first Books concerning the planting and progress of Christian Religion in this Kingdome with the worthy Instruments that God raised to propagate the true Faith both here and in the neighbouring Countries contained no great matters as of those first Ages whereof we have few or no Records remaining how should any great things be truly affirmed Yet the little I have found and brought together may let us see the exceeding goodness of God toward this Nation having so soon after the Ascension of our Saviour unto the heavens made the Gospel here to be Preached and a Church thereby gathered which to this day hath found a safe harbour under Your Majesties Royall Progenitors Fourteen hundred years and above we reckon since King Donald the first of that name his imbracing the Christian Faith All which time there hath not been wanting in the Royall Stock a most kinde Nursing Father to this Church or if a careless and dissolute King which in so long a succession of Princes is not to be wondred happened to reign the same was ever abundantly repaired by one or other of the Kings that followed neither did this bring them less happiness then honour For give me leave Sir to speak it which I hold not unworthy of your Majesties consideration the Scottish Kingdom once the least of nine Kingdoms that ruled in the Isle by the wonderfull providence of God is now so encreased first in the person of your Majesties blessed Father and now in your own as the Scepter of the whole is put into your Majesties hands which that you may long happily sway and your posterity after you to the worlds end is the hearty wish of all loyall Subjects For my part next to God his undeserved love I do ascribe this happiness to the piety and devotion of your princely Ancestors and to their zeal in maintaining the rights and liberties of this Church Your Majestie keeping the same course which blessed be God you hold you may be confident of God his protection against all dangers whatsoever for he will honour them that honour him and never turn away his face from his Anointed God Almighty I beseech to multiply his blessings upon your Majesty and your Royal Progeny to give you the desire of your heart and clothe all your Enemies with shame So he prayeth that is Your Sacred Majesties Most humble Subject and Servant S. Andrewes From the place of my Peregrination 15 Novemb. 1639. The Contents of the severall Books THe First Book containeth the planting and progress of Christian Religion in this Kingdome unto the subversion of the Picts which fell out about the year of our Lord 840 Fol. 1. The Second Book containeth succession of Bishops in the severall seas of this Kingdome especially in the sea of S. Andrews with other principall things that happened in their times fol. 25. The Third sheweth the History of the Reformation of the Church and how it was wrought fol. 117. The Fourth Book sheweth the things that fell out after Queen MARY her coming from France into this Kingdome unto her resignation of the Crown to King JAMES her Sonne fol. 176. The Fifth declareth how matters passed in the State and Church during the Government of the four Regents His Majesty being yet Minor fol. 213. The Sixth containeth the things that happened after his Majesties assuming of the Government in his own person unto his happy Succession to the Crown of England fol. 282. The Last and Seventh Book rehearseth the proceedings after his Majesties going into England unto his dying fol. 473. THE HISTORY OF THE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND THE FIRST BOOK The Contents The planting and progresse of Christian Religion in this Kingdome unto the subversion of the PICTS which fell out about the year of our Lord 480. HAving purposed to write the History of this Church I have thought meet to begin at the time in which this Kingdom did first receive the Christian faith for albeit we have few or no Records left us of those first times yet as much is to be found in stories as will shew what was the condition of this Church in every age And herewith we must content our selves till we come to the times that yield greater plenty of matter when I shall come to our own time I purpose to set down at length the things that have happened both in the Church and State together with the counsels and causes of those events without the which the History should be of little use For take away from story the causes whereupon the manner how and the purpose wherefore things were done that which remaineth is more like a Fable then an History delighting the Reader it may be for the present but giving little or no instruction at all I am not ignorant how unsafe it is to write of matters so recent and what offence it may give to divers persons but the desire I have to give posterity a true information of things and to have them made wise by our errours weigheth down with me all such feares wherefore without further prefacing to begin IN the year of our Lord 203. which was the fourth of Donald the first his Reign the Faith of Christ was in this Kingdom first publickly embraced King Donald with his Queen and divers of his Nobles being then solemnly baptized Yet was not that the first time wherein Christ was here made known for Tertullian who lived some yeares before speaking of the propagation of the Gospel throughout the world doth reckon among the countreys the parts of Britannie unto which the Romanes could not finde accesse and what these parts were we cannot doubt all the In-land of Britannie being then made subject to the Romanes and no part free but that little corner of the Isle which the Scots did inhabit Moreover it cannot in reason be thought that the conversion of this Kingdome was all wrought at one instant great alterations such as that must needs have been not being made but by little and little so as we may well think that numbers of people have been won to the Christian profession before the same was publickly embraced by the King and his Nobles But who they were that God used as instruments in that work is not certainly known Nicephorus writeth that Simon Zelotes after he had travelled through Egypt Cyrene Afrique Mauritania and Lybia came at last ad occidentalem Oceanum
Countreymen Richardus de sancto Victore a Channon regular of the order of S. Angustine and David a Presbyter This David lived in Germany and was chosen by the Emperour Henry the fifth to accompany him in that expedition which he made to Italy against Pope Paschal the Story whereof he wrote as likewise a Treatise de regno Scotorum both which are perished Richardus was a professor of Divinity at Paris in the Abbey of S. Victor a great Philosopher and left many books that witnesse his learning the Titles whereof you may read in Baleus He died in the same Abbey and was buried with this Epitaph Moribus ingenio doctrina clarus arte Pulvereo hîc tegeris docte Richarde situ Quem tellus genuit foelici Scotica partu Te fovet in gremio Gallica terra suo Nil tibi Parca ferox nocuit quae stamina parco Tempore tracta gravirupit acerba manu Plurima namque tui super ant monumenta laboris Qua tibi perpetuam sunt paritura decus Segnior ut lento sceler atas mors pelit aedes Sic propero nimis it sub piatecta gradu 16. Bishop Robert deceasing Walthemius Abbot of Melrosse was earnestly entreated to accept the Charge but would not forsake the Monastery saying That he had washed his feet and could not contaminate them again with the dust of earthly cares Whereupon Arnold Abbot of Kelso was elected and in presence of King Malcolm the fourth consecrated by William Bishop of Murray This Bishop had been the year preceding directed to Rome with one Nicholaus the Kings Secretary to complain of the Archbishop of York his usurpation upon the Church of Scotland and being then returned carried himself as Legate to the Pope which power he resigned to Arnold after his Consecration as he was enjoyned by Engenius the third who then held the Chair In a Convention of the Estates kept the same year Arnold did earnestly insist with the King to make choice of a wise for assuring the royall succession and to that effect made a long speech in the hearing of the Estates but the King had taken a resolution to live single and would not be diverted Edward Bishop of Aberdene was much blamed for confirming him in that course and for that cause hated of many The Cathedrall of S. Andrews a fair and stately Church whilest it stood was founded by this Arnold but before the work was raised to any height he died having sate Bishop one year ten moneths and seventeen days onely 17. Upon Arnold his death the King did recommend his Chaplain Richard to the place who was immediately elected by the Convent but not consecrated for the space of two years after because of the Archbishop of York his pretensions One Roger held at that time the See of York a man ambitious beyond all measure who from being Archdeacon of Canterbury was by the means of the Archbishop Thomas Becket preferred to that place no sooner was he advanced but he procured of Pope Anastasius the fourth a Bull whereby he was designed Metropolitane of Scotland but the King and the Clergy notwithstanding the Popes authority was in those days greatly respected refused to acknowledge him Anastasius dying by whom the Archbishop Roger was maintained the Prelates of Scotland did convene and by themselves performed the Consecration Roger incensed herewith sent to Rome and complaining of this contempt found the favour to be made Legate of Scotland by vertue whereof he caused cite all the Scottish Clergy to appear before him at Norham in England whither he came in great pomp Angelramus Archdeacon of Glasgow accompanied with Walter Prior of Kelso Solomon Dean of Glasgow and some others of the Clergy went and kept the Diet and in the name of the Church of Scotland appealing to the Pope took journey to Rome Where the business being debated before Pope Alexander the third sentence was given against Roger his pretended Legation and the Church of Scotland declared to be exempted from all spirituall Jurisdiction the Apostolique See only excepted This exemption Angelramus who in the mean time was promoted to the See of Glasgow by the death of Bishop Herbert and consecrated at Rome brought back and presented to the King The Bull is yet extant and begins thus Alexander P. servus servorum Dei Malcolmo Regi c. A few days after the Bishops return King Malcolm died at Iedbrough in the 25. year of his age and 12. of his reign a sweet and meek Prince uncourteously used by King Henry the second King of England but more rudely by his own Subjects This Henry by nature ambitious and one that could not keep himself within bounds took many ways to wrong this good King and make him despised of his own people yet for that he had sworn to King David Malcolms Grandfather that he should never molest him nor any of his posterity in the possession of the lands they held in England and could not for shame go against his oath he stirred up the Bishop of York to place a Bishop at Carlile thinking the King of Scots would not endure that wrong Iohn Bishop of Glasgow under whose charge the Countrey of Cumberland then was did exceedingly offend with this and finding that the King would not break with Henry for so little a cause nor seeing a way to repair himself abandoned his charge and went unto the Monastery of Tours in France where he abode till he was forced by the Popes authority to return King Henry finding this injury dissembled went afterwards more plainly to work for having desired Malcolm to come to London to do homage for the lands he held in England he compelled him to follow him in the Warre he made upon France thinking thereby to alienate the minde of the French King from the Scots Again when he had returned home inviting him of new to a Parliament kept at York upon a forged quarrell as if he had crossed King Henry his affairs in France he was declared to have lost all his lands in England And not content to have wronged him in this sort to stir up his own Subjects against him made the report goe that King Malcolm had voluntarily resigned all those lands Which did so irritate the Nobles as presently after his return putting themselves in Arms they did besiege the Town of Bertha where the King remained and had not failed to use violence but that by the intercession of some wise Prelates matters were composed The Nobility being grieved to see the King so abused did urge him to denounce warre but he loving rather to have matters peaceably agreed was content to accept Cumberland and Huntington and suffer Northumberland to goe to King Henry This displeased the Subjects and diminished much of the regard that was formerly carried to him which he took greatly to heart and shortly after died as was thought of displeasure The good King being thus taken away
his brother William succeeded in the year 1165. The first thing he undertook was the repetition of Northumberland for which Ambassadours were sent to King Henry His answer was That he should have right done him at his coming to London after he had performed his homage for the Countries he held in England King William taking journey thither with David his younger brother found the King at his Easter in VVindsore where insisting for the restitution of Northumberland he had many good words given him and promise made that at the meeting of the Parliament a course should be taken to his content In this hope he followed King Henry going then in expedition to France and staid there with him some moneths but when he perceived the King was not shortly to return unto England and that he was sed onely with fair promises he took his leave and came home Presently after his return he sent an Herald to denounce warre unlesse Northumberland were restored King Henry being then ingaged in the French warres and not willing to make himself more businesse was content to quit that part of Northumberland which King VVilliam his great Grandfather had possessed Yet suddenly forethinking what he had done he stirred up underhand those that lived in the Borders to make incursions upon the Scots This being complained and no redresse made King VVilliam raised an Army and went into England and at Anwick as he was taking the aire suspecting no Enemy to be at hand he was surprised by some English and sent Prisoner to King Henry in France who put him in the Castle of Calice in Picardie where he was some moneths detained A great dysaster this was and how grievous to the whole State may appear by the Articles condescended upon for obtaining his liberty which were 1. That for his redemption there should be paid one hundred thousand pounds sterling money the one half in hand the other half after a short time and for assurance thereof the Counties of Cumberland Huntington and Northumberland be morgaged to King Henry 2. That the Scots should move no warre against England for retention of these Counties 3. And for the more security the Castles of Roxburgh Berwick Edinburgh and Sterling should be delivered to the King of England or unto such as he should appoint to receive the same Hollinshed setteth down other Conditions besides these as That the King of Scots should acknowledge the King of England for his supreme Lord That the Prelates of Scotland and their successors should be subject to the Church of England And that the Lords and Barons of Scotland should swear fealty to the King of England and his successours which are meer forgeries it being certain that the Scots howsoever they loved their King and for his liberty would not refuse to undergoe very hard conditions yet would never have renounced their liberties maintained so long and with so much blood and yeelded themselves in any case to such a slavish subjection Always the agreement concluded in Normandy the 8. of December 1175. by Richard Bishop of S. Andrews and divers Noblemen sent thither to treat in that businesse was at August thereafter confirmed in York by both Kings all the Bishops Abbots and Nobility almost of Scotland being present In Ianuary thereafter at a meeting in Norham where King VVilliam was also in person the King of England dealt earnestly to have the Clergy of Scotland accept the Archbishop of York for their Metropolitane but they pâ—etending the absence of many of their number and the want of the inferiour Clergies consent deferred to give any answer at that time The next year the same matter was renued and followed earnestly by a Legate sent from the Pope with Commission to reform the abuses he should finde in the Churches both in England and Scotland This Legate called Hugo and styled Cardinall de sancto Angelo having sent his Apparitors with a citation to the Bishops of Scotland for their appearing before him at a certain day in Northampton they went thither with a great number of their Clergy The Assembly being met and all ranked in their places the Cardinall who had his seat somewhat higher then the rest made a long speech in commendation of humility and obedience shewing what excellent Virtues these were and how much to be desired of men of spirituall profession whereof when he talked a while he came in end to perswade the Clergy of Scotland to submit themselves to the Primate of York which he said was a thing very convenient for them and would turn greatly to their ease and commodity for having no Superiour amongst themselves nor Metropolitane to decide Controversies that possibly might happen there could none be fitter then their neighbour the Archbishop of York a Prelate of great respect and one whose credit in the Court of Rome might serve them to good use therefore besought them to lay aside all grudges and emulations and dispose themselves to live in all times after as members of one and the same Church The Bishops who feared to offend the Legate made no answer and after a long silence a young Chanon named Gilbert rose up and spake to this effect The Church of Scotland ever since the faith of Christ was embraced in that Kingdome hath been a free and independent Church subject to none but the Bishop of Rome whose authority we refuse not to acknowledge To admit any other for our Metropolitane especially the Archbishop of York we neither can nor will for notwithstanding the present peace which we wish may long continue warres may break up betwixt the two Kingdomes and if it shall fall out so neither shall he be able to discharge any duty amongst us nor can we safely and without suspicion resort to him For the controversies which you my Lord Cardinall say may arise amongst our selves we have learned and wise Prelates who can determine the same and if they should be deficient in their duties we have a good and religious King who is able to keep all things in frame and order so as we have no necessity of any stranger to be set over us And I cannot think that either his Holinesse hath forgotten or you my Lord that are his Legate can be ignorant of the late exemption granted unto Malcolm our last King since the grant whereof we have done nothing which may make us seem unworthy of that favour Wherefore in the name of all the Scotish Church we doe humbly entreat the preservation of our ancient liberberties and that we be not brought under subjection to our enemies These speeches he delivered with an extraordnary grace and in so passionate a manner that all the hearers were exceedingly moved the English themselves commending his courage and the affection he shewed to his Country But the Archbishop of York who looked not for such opposition called the young Chanon to come unto him and laying his hand
upon his head said Ex tua pharetra nunquam venit ista sagitta meaning that he was set on to speak by some others of greater note So the Legate perceiving that the businesse would not work and that the opposition was like to grow greater he brake up the Assembly After which the Prelates returning home were universally welcomed but above the rest the Chanon Gilbert was in the mouthes of all men and judged worthy of a good preferment and soon after was promoved to the Bishoprâ—ck of Cathenes and made Chancellor of the Kingdome The year following one Vibianus a Cardinal titulo sancti Stephani in monte Caelio came into Scotland in shew to reform abuses and do some good to the Church but in effect to extort moneys from Churchmen For at this time it was grown to be an ordinary trick of the Popes when they stood in need of moneys to send forth their Legates unto all Countreys sometimes under a colour of reforming abuses sometimes for the recovering of the Holy land and sometimes upon other pretexts This Cardinall having stayed a while in Scotland took his journey into Ireland and in his return would needs make a new visit of this Church for which effect he convened the Clergy at Edinburgh in the moneth of August and established divers Canons which the Clergy esteeming prejudiciall to their liberties did incontinent after he was gone revoke and disannull but what these Canons were our Writers do not remember 18. It was a fatall year this to many of our Churchmen both Bishops and Abbots amongst others Richard Bishop of S. Andrews deceasing King William recommended Hugo one of his Chaplains whom he much favoured to the Convent But they taking another course made choice of the Archdeacon Iohn Scot who was an English born The King displeased therewith did swear by the Arm of S. Iamesâ—this â—this was his ordinary oath that so long as he lived Scot should never enjoy that place So he sent a Command unto the Chanons to make a new election appointing Ioceline Bishop of Glasgow their assistant and thus was Hugo his Chaplain elected The Archdeacon appealed to Rome and going thither complained of the wrong done to the Church entreating the Pope for redresse Hereupon Alexius Subdean of the Romane See was dispatched to try and examine the cause At first the King made difficulty to admit him but afterwards yeelding the two elections being tried by the Legate sentence was given for the first and Iocelin Bishop of Glasgow with the rest of the Clergy that assisted the second excommunicated This done the Legate called an Assembly of the Bishops Abbots and whole Clergy at Haliroudhouse and made Matthew Bishop of Aberdene publickly to consecrate the Archdeacon upon Trinity Sunday 1178. He not the lesse fearing the Kings displeasure left the Realm and went to Rome where he was honourably entertained by Pope Lucius the third who sent Letters to the King and admonished him not to usurp upon the Church and to remit the Bishop who was lawfully elected and consecrated to enjoy his place with quietnesse This Letter the Story saith was conceived in milde terms for the Pope feared to incense the King lest he should follow the ensample of his Cousin Henry King of England that some 8. years before had made away Thomas Becket Bishop of Canterbury for his obstinate and wilfull opposition in some matters not unlike yet the King nothing moved with the Letter to make his displeasure the better known did confiscate all the revenues pertaining to the See of S. Andrews and banished those whom he understood to favour the Bishops cause The Pope advertised hereof resolved to put the Realm under Interdiction But the Bishop prostrating himself at his feet besought him not to use any such rigour saying That he would much rather renounce his dignity then have so many Christian souls for ought that concerned him defrauded of spirituall benefits The Pope highly commending the goodnesse and patience of the Bishop held him from that time forth in more regard and at his request forbare the Interdiction Mean while it happened that VValter Bishop of Dunkeld departed this life whereupon the King taking occasion sent to recall the Bishop with offers of great kindenesse protesting that if it had not been for the oath he rashly made he would willingly have contented to his enjoying of the See of S. Andrews But seeing it did touch him in Honour and Conscience as he esteemed to be yeelding thereto he requested the Bishop to accept the Benefice of Dunkeld which was then fallen void and was in value not much inferiour to the other This the Bishop communicated to the Pope who desired to have the matter quieted advised him to return and accept the offer Thus was the Archdeacon by the Popes consent preferred to Dunkeld having the rents of the Archdeaconry reserved to him during his life in recompence of his losses Hugo this way coming to be possessed Andrews took journey to Rome that he might be reconciled to the Pope and being absolved for his intrusion in his return died some six miles from the City of Rome the 6. of August 1188. ten years and ten moneths after his election At this time newes was brought from the East of the prevailing of Sultan Saladine of Egypt against the Christians in the Holy land which moved Philip the second of France and Henry King of England to undertake the recovery of the Holy land and to employ all their credit and means as well in their own countreys as with other Christian Princes their neighbours for the furtherance of that enterprise To befray the charges of the voyage both Kings by consent of their Clergy and Nobles ordained that all their subjects both Clergy and Laity such excepted as went in the voyage should pay the tenth of all their moveables either in gold or silver King Henry having laid this imposition upon his subjects at home sent Hugh Pusar then Bishop of Duresme with other Commissioners to collect the tenths of the Clergy and Laity in this kingdom which the King and States interpreting to be an encroachment upon their liberties would not permit yet for advancing that holy action they did offer a supply of 5000. Marks sterling which King Henry refused but the enterprise upon a quarel that arose betwixt the Kings of France and England was at that time dashed and so the collection was no further urged King Henry a little after this ended his life and Richard his son who succeeded resolving to pursue the action of the holy Warre to assure the King of Scotland who he feared would take some advantage in his absence restored all the Castles which were delivered to King Henry his Father and released him and his posterity of all Covenants made and confirmed by Charter unto King Henry as extorted from him being then his prisoner reserving only such
a sorrow they shewed notwithstanding he had reigned long and died being of a great age for it was the 74. of his age and the the 49. of his reign when he departed this life The funerals ended his son Alexander the second accompanied with all the Prelates and Nobles of the kingdome went to Scone and received the Crown by the hands of the Bishop of Saint Andrews This King did no wayes degenerate from the vertues of his predecessors and was a great protector of the Church against the rapines and extortions of Rome Guallo others call him Waldo a Cardinal sent Legate into England by Pope Innocentius the third to assist King Iohn who was then become his vassal did put the kingdom of Scotland under interdiction because the King had supplied the French in his invasion of England and as he pretended robbed some Churches and religious places in his return from that war The Church-men ceasing by this occasion from their ordinary services no religious exercise was performed by any through the whole Realm but the white Monks whose priviledge did warrant them to celebrate at such times which the Legate hearing did suspend inhibiting them by one Weshbeck Archdeacon of York to do any service under pain of the highest spiritual censures till the rest of the Clergy were absolved But King Iohn dying and Henry his son Crowned by mediation of certain Prelates peace was made betwixt King Alexander and him upon the conditions following That Ioane the sister of Henry should be given in marriage to Alexander King of Scots and Magaret his sister to Hubert de Burgh Justiciar of England the man who then ruled all affaires That Berwick should be rendred to the Scots and Carlile to the English The King of Scots absolved from the Legates censures and his kingdome released from the Interdiction For performing the last Article the Bishops of York and Salisbury by whose meanes especially the peace was concluded had Commission given them by the Legate which presently they discharged But Guallo being displeased that the Interdict had passed so easily for he was a man extremely avaritious and one who made his profit of every businesse since he could not retreat what was done took him to the Clergy saying That the absolution granted did not comprehend them and thereupon did summon them to appear before him at Anwick The Diet was kept and thither went all the Bishops Abbots Priors and beneficed men in great numbers Absolution was offered but not without the payment of large summes which were at first denied but after some menacings that he should make them answer it at Rome the most out of fear did transact A few Prelates only standing out went afterwards to Rome to justifie their Cause With the inferiour Churchmen he took a course in shew beneficial and for their ease that some one or two should go with Commission and absolve them in their own Provinces at home but it turned to their great molestation for the Prior of Duresme and Westbeck the Archdeacon who were imployed in that businesse beginning at Berwick went through all the Realm and making the Priests and Canons convene at the principal City of the bounds caused them to take oath that they should confesse themselves and answer truly unto every particular enquired of them which done and their several depositions taken what by terrifying some with deprivation from their places for faults confessed by themselves what by wearying others with the protractions they made from day to day great summes were extorted from them and the poor Priests forced notwithstanding all this oppression to go barefooted to the door of the principal Church where they were convened and ask their absolution in a most base and abject form The Clergy offended herewith sent Walter Bishop of Glasgow Brice Bishop of Murray and Adam Bishop of Cathnes to complain at Rome where finding Pope Innocent dead and Honorius the third preferred in his room they exhibited in name of the Church of Scotland a grievous complaint against Guallo charging him to have been the especial cause of these miserable combustions which both the kingdomes had endured to have abused his legation unto his private commodity and to have extorted monies from Churchmen and others under colour of absolution Guallo brought to his answer because he did not clear himself sufficiently in divers points was declared not to have carried himself as became his Holinesse Legate and fined in a pecuniary mulct so as he escaped by dividing the spoil which he had made in those parts betwixt his Master and himself The Bishops who preferred the complaint were upon confession of their fault absolved one of the Cardinals who stood by scornfully commending their humility and saying Quòd piarum mentium esset crimen agnoscere ubi nec culpa reperitur That it was the part of devout men to acknowledge an offence even where no fault was committed and for some recompence of their pains a confirmation was given them of the old priviledges granted to the Church of Scotland by four Popes This priviledge is dated at Rome in the year of Christ 1218. and in the second of Pope Honorius his Pontificat Yet the next year Egidius a Spaniard by nation and by place a Cardinal was sent to gather contribution for the holy warre wherein both the Clergy and Laity shewed themselves so forward as in a short space great summes were collected all which he spent most prodigally in his return to Rome giving out for an excuse that he was robbed by certain Brigants in the way And no sooner was this Cardinal gone then another followed having the like Commission but the King considering how prejudicial these contributions might prove to the kingdome and that through the easie yieldings of the State the See of Rome was grown impudent in their exactions would not permit him to enter into the Realm till he had propounded the matter in Councel at which time one of the Bishops his name is not expressed in the story made a long speech against the rapine of these Legates where in recounting the insolent oppressions of Guallo and the riotous profusion of Egidius he disswaded by many good reasons his admission or the receiving of any other who should afterwards happen to come about the like businesse This speech seconded with the applause of all that were present an Act was made prohibiting the reception of the Legate or any others without licence from the King The Bishop of St. Andrewes being all this while in France did now return bringing with him some of the order of S. Dominick some Franciscans Iacobins and of the Monks called Vallis umbrosae These Orders not being known before in this Church by their crafty insinuations with people and the profession they made in leading an austere life did supplant the credit of the Priests drawing to themselves all the
satisfaction was made for the offence and because no redresse was offered a new intimation was made of his cursing through the whole Province This the King and the Court took so ill as forthwith a messenger was sent to charge the Bishop to depart forth of the Realm which as he was preparing to obey the news of a Legate sent from Rome into England made the Court take a more moderate course fearing the consequence of so rigorous a proceeding This Legate called Ottobon being employed for pacifying the troubles raised betwixt the King of England and his Barons did summon the Clergy of Scotland to appear before him by their Commissioners and to bring with them a Collection of four Marks for every Parish within the Realm and six Marks for every Cathedrall Church The Clergy meaning themselves to the King he did prohibit any such Contribution and sent his Chancellour to the Bishop of Dunkeld and Robert Bishop of Dumblane partly to declare the reasons of his prohibition and partly to observe the proceedings of the Legate with these of England At their return some Acts were shewed which the Legate had set down to be observed by the Clergy all which they rejected saying That they would acknowledge no Statutes but such as proceeded either from the â—ope or from a Generall Councell Ottobon was not well gone when another Legate named Rustaneus was sent to demand a tenth of all the Church rents within the Kingdome for advancing the journey of King Henries son who had undertaken the holy Warre at the solicitation of Ottobon but this seeming to crosse the liberties granted by former Popes unto the Church and it being notorious that the Pope was to employ the moneys to other ends for he was then warring against Manfred King of Naples and Sicily therefore the same was denied and Rustane prohibited to enter into the Realm The King not the lesse in token of his affection sent to the Pope 100. Marks sterling and for the furtherance of the holy Warre did levy 1000. men which he sent to Lewes the French King who had determined to adventure himself of new against the Infidels under the charge of the Earls of Atholl and Carrick All these dyed in that Warre partly of the plague as did Lewes himself and partly by the sword of the Enemy In this Bishops time the Carmelite Friers came into Scotland and had a dwelling assigned them at Perth by Richard Bishop of Dunkeld The Crosse-Church at Peblis was at that same time built and endowed by the King with large Revenews The reason why this Church was erected was a Crosse as they write found in that place enclosed in a little Shrine on which the name of Nicolaus a Bishop was written The Church was dedicated with many pompous Ceremonies divers Prelates being present amongst whom was Gamelinus who at his return home was taken with a Palsie and died in Inchmurtach having sate Bishop 16. years his Corps was laid in the new Church of S. Andrews nigh to the high Altar 24. William Wishart elect of Glasgow was upon the death of Gamelinus preferred to S. Andrews Pope Urban the fourth had not long before ordained That every Bishop and Abbot elect should travell to Rome for Consecration but the Papacy then vacant by reason of a Schism that continued two years and nine moneths after the death of Clement the fourth he was unwilling to goe thither four other Prelates being kept there depending at the same time William elect of Brichen Matthew elect of Rosse Nicoll elect of Cathnes and Hugh Benham elect of Abredene The elect of Brichen died at Rome Aberdene and Rosse were consecrated by Gregory the tenth upon the ending of the schisme at Viturbium Nicoll was rejected and the Chapter of Cathnes appointed to make a new election The Agents that Wishart sent for licence to be consecrated were detained a long time and had returned without effectuating their errand if Edward the first of England who coming from the Holy land was then at Rome had not by his intercession prevailed with the Pope and obtained licence for the consecration which was performed at Scone in the year 1274. in the presence of the King and divers of his Nobles At the same time William Fraser Dean of Glasgow was preferred to be Chancellour The Pope shortly after this having convocated a Councell at Lyons caused cite all the Prelates thereto to this effect a meeting of the Clergy was kept at perth where it was concluded that the Bishops Dunkeld and Murray onely excepted should addresse themselves to the journey and be at Lyons before the first of May. Hopes were given of great reformation to be made in that Councel especially of the Orders of Mendicants who were mightily increased and grown to the highest of depravation The Councel was frequent there being present as my Authour saith two Patriarchs fifteen Cardinals five hundred Bishops and a thousand other mitred Prelates besides the King of France and the Emperour of Greece and many other Princes The first proposition was for the holy warre and concerning it the Councel decreed That a tenth of all the Benefices in Christendome the priviledged Churches not excepted should be paid for six yeares That all Penitentiaries and Confessors should urge offendors to assist that holy businesse with their wealth and riches and that every Christian without exception of sex or quality should pay a yearly penny during that space under pain of excommunication For remedying abuses in the Church the Councel ordained 1. That no procurations should be paid to Bishops or Archdeacons unlesse they did visit the Churches in their own persons 2. That no Churchman should possesse more Benefices then one and should make his residence at the Church he retained 3. That without the Popes licence no Clergy should answer the impositions which might happen to be laid upon them by Princes or States 4. That the Mendicants should be reduced to four orders the Minorites the Predicants Carmelites and Heremites of S. Augustine who should continue in their present state untill the Pope should otherwise think good And 5. a geneprohibition was made to advise or admit any new orders besides those which the Councel had allowed Some other Acts of lesse moment were passed whereof the extract under the hands of the publick notaries of the Councel was sent to this Church but all these statutes turned in a short time to smoke pluralities being of new dispensed with with the clause of Non obstante which then first came in use The orders of the Friers and Monks restored one by one as first the Cistertian Monks who redeemed their order by the paiment of 500000. Marks then the Bernardines with the summe of 600000. Crownes the other Orders made in little sort their Compositions Whereby it appeared that the statutes there enacted were only devised to raise summes of
money and not out of any purpose those Fathers had to redresse abuses The same year was one Bagimund a Legate directed hither who calling before him all the Beneficed persons within the kingdom caused them upon their oath give up the worth and value of their Benefices according to which they were taxed The table commonly called Bagiments rolls served for the present collection and was a rule in after times for the prizes taken of those that came to sue for Benefices in the Court of Rome Wishart not long after his return from this Councel being employed by the King and State in a Commission of the Borders sickned at Marbotle in Teriotdale and there died He is commended to have been a man careful in his charge and a great lover of peace then which there is no vertue more required in a Churchman he continued Bishop 5. years and 8. monthes only his corps was honourably conveyed from Marbotle and interred in his own Church nigh to the high Altar in the year 1279. There lived in the kingdome at this time Michael Scot and Thomas Lermouth men greatly admired the first for his rarest skill in the secrets of nature the other for his predictions and foretelling of things to come Picus Mirandula and Cornelius Agrippa do make honourable mention of Michael Scot in their writings and accompt him to have been a subtile Philosopher and most expert in the Mathematick sciences The prophecies yet extant in the Scottish Rymes of the other whereupon he was commonly called Thomas the Rymer may justly be admired having foretold so many ages before the union of the kingdomes of England and Scotland in the ninth degree of the Bruces blood with the succession of Bruce himselfe to the Crown being yet a childe and other divers particulars which the event hath ratified and made good Boeth in his story relateth his prediction of King Alexanders death and that he did foretell the same to the Earl of March the day before it fell out saying That before the next day at noon such a tempest should blow as Scotland had not felt many years before The next morning the day being clear and no change appearing in the aire the Nobleman did challenge Thomas of his saying calling him an Impostor he replied that noon was not yet passed About which time a Post came to advertise the Earl of the King his sudden death Then said Thomas This is the tempest I foretold and so it shall prove to Scotland Whence or how he had this knowledge can hardly be affirmed but sure it is that he did divine and answer truly of many things to come 25. William Fraser Chancellour of the kingdom was after Wishart elected Bishop and going to Rome was consecrated by Pope Nicolaus the third in the year 1280. The office of Chancery upon his resignation was given by the King to Mâ— Iohn Pebles Archdeacon of S. Andrewes At his return from Rome a pestilential feaver never before known in this kingdome brake up to the destruction of an infinite number of people This visitation was scarce ceased when all the Kings children were taken away one after another first David his yongest son died then Alexander the Prince who had married a daughter of the Earl of Flanders after him Margret Queen of Norway who left behinde her one onely daughter and last the King himself who had taken to wife after the death of his Queen Iolet a daughter to the Count of Dreux in hope to restore his issue was most unfortunately killed by the fall of his horse a little space from the town of Kingorne So many deaths falling out together in the Royal family did presage great calamities to ensue The onely hope that remained was in the Norvegian maid for whom Sir David Wemis and Sir Michael Scot two Knights of Fife were directed by the Estates The administration of affaires was in the mean time committed to William Fraser Bishop of S. Andrewes Duncan Earl of Fife and Iohn Coming Earl of Bughan for the countries on the North side of Forth and to Robert Bishop of Glasgow Iohn Lord Comin and Iohn Lord Stewart for the South parts but it was not long before that these Gentlemen that were sent to Norway returned bringing word that the maid of Norway was likewise departed this life At which newes it cannot be told whether the fears or sorrowes of the subjects were greater for as their sorrow for the losse of so worthy a King was great so their fear was no lesse because of the uncertainty of the succession for so many Competitors six they were in number claiming the inheritance of the Crown and all of them men of power and friendship they could not but divide the Realme and so beget a civil warre yet they who were trusted during the interreigne did by their mediation work them to a compromise and to remit the decision of the controversie to King Edward the first of England a Prince of long experience and much respected in that time To this purpose the Bishop of Brichen with the Abbot of Iedbrugh and Galfred Mowbray a Gentleman were sent to King Edward who finding him at Xantoign in France did expone to him the inconveniences that were feared to fall out in the kingdome and the course they had taken to prevent the same intreating his help for quieting the State King Edward glad to have an hand in the making of a King in Scotland dimitted them with many loving words assigning a Diet to the Competitors at Norham upon Tweed which he promised to keep The day come and the Competitors all present with the Prelates and other Nobles the King by a long and premeditated speech declared That albeit he might justly claim the superiority of the kingdome of Scotland as belonging to him by right yet as a friend and arbiter elected by themselves he would labour to compose the present controversie in the best sort he could for the right said he howsoever there be divers pretenders belongeth to one onely and for my self I determine to wrong no man but to do that whâ—ch is just assuring my self you will all acquiesce and take him for King who shall be pronounced so to be This said Robert Bishop of Glasgow arose and gave the King most hearty thanks in name of the rest for the good affection he bare to their countrey and the paines he had taken to come and remove their debates shewing that out of a perswasion they all had of his wisdome and equity they were well pleased to submit to him as sole Arbiter the judgement and decision of that weighty affaire But where it had pleased him to speak of a right of superiority over the kingdome it was sufficiently known that Scotland from the first foundation of the State had been a free and independent kingdome and not subject to any other power whatsoever That their ancestors
had valiantly defended themselves and their liberties against the Romanes Picts Britains Danes Norishes and all others who sought to usurp upon them and howbeit said he the present occasion hath bred some distraction of mindes all true hearted Scotch men will stand for the liberty of their countrey to the death for they esteem their liberty more precious then their lives and in that quarrel will neither separate nor divide wherefore as he had professed in way of friendship and as an Arbiter elected by themselves to cognosce and decide the present controversie they were all in most humble manner to intreat him that he would proceed to determine the question which they and their posterities should remember with their best affections and services King Edward although he was not well pleased with the Bishops free speech made no speech thereof at the time but continuing his purpose desired the competitors to be called They all being severally heard the right was found to lie chiefly betwixt Iohn Baliol and Robert Bruce and the rest ordained to cease from their claime Of Baliol and Bruce an oath was taken that they should abide by the sentence which King Edward should pronounce The like oath was taken by the Prelates Nobles and other Commissioners of the State who swear all to accept him for their King that should be tried to have the best right and for the greater assurance all their Seales were appended to the Compromise Then Edward proceeding made twelve of either kingdome men learned in the Law to be elected for examination of the right declaring that he would take the opinions also of the best Civilians in the Universities of France In this sort was the businesse carried in publick but privately and amongst some few the consultation was how to bring Scotland under his subjection Five years and some more were spent before the controversie was brought to an end at last every one longing to have it concluded the King returned to Berwick and calling the 24. who had been named at the first meeting he did enclose them within the Church commanding them to debate the matter and permitting none to have accesse unto them he himself went in now and then to feel their mindes and perceiving the most part inclining to Bruce his right he dealt first with him promising to invest him in the kingdom so as he would hold the same of the Crown of England Bruce answered that he was not so desirous of rule as he would therefore prejudice the liberties of the countrey The like offer he made to Baliol who being more greedy of a kingdome then careful of his honour did yield thereunto and so was Crowned King at Scone all the Nobility Bruce excepted doing him homage Some dayes after his Coronation he went to Newcastle to do the homage as he had promised to King Edward as unto his Soveraigne Lord. The Nobles that accompanied him thither fearing to withstand the two Kings so farre from home did likewise swear subjection to King Edward Which as soon as the rest of the Nobility and others of the State who were tender of their countreys liberty understood they grew highly displeased they that were in Baliols company were excused as not daring oppose the fact in that place but he himself having done it upon a secret paction which then began first to break out he became so universally hated as after that time could he never purchase their love nor was it long before he felt the smart of his own error For being cited to answer before the Parliament of England upon a complaint exhibited against him he appeared and having desired to answer by Procurator the same was denied him and he forced to descend to the ordinary place of pleading and stand as a subject This affront did so vexe his minde that from thenceforth he did meditate upon nothing but revenge whereof a good opportunity was offered him by the warre which then burst forth between France and England The Ambassadours of both these Kings coming at one time into Scotland the French to seek the renuing of the ancient League and the English to crave a supply of men to be sent unto King Edward by vertue of the late allegiance sworne by Baliol the desire of England was utterly rejected as unjust Because the allegiance sworne by their King was as they said forced and granting he had done it willingly it was not in his power without consent of the State to do any such act Therefore whatsoever was done by him that way both he and they did recall renouncing Edwards friendship both for that and other wrongs committed by him Thereupon it was concluded that two Ambassadours should be sent one to France for renuing the League and confirming it by new alliance of Edward Baliol the Kings son with the daughter of France another to England for defying King Edward and renouncing his allegiance Towards France William Bishop of S. Andrewes Matthew Bishop of Dunkeld Sir Iohn Sowlis and Sir Ingram Umphraville Knights were imployed The Ambassadour to England being declined by many Henry Abbot of Aberbrothock a man of great stomach undertook and performed Upon this defection of Baliol King Edward summoned him to appear at Newcastle and upon his refuse entered into Scotland with a mighty Army took Berwick with the slaughter of 7000. Scots and had delivered into his hands the Castles of Dumbar Roxburgh Edinburgh and Striveling Baliol thus overthrown was again by the perswasion of Iohn Cumin of Strathbogy brought to submit himself and swear fealty of new to King Edward After which the Parliament of Scotland was called to meet at Berwick there did all the Nobility that were present perform homage to the King of England William Douglas a man nobly born and of great courage onely refused and was therefore cast in prison where he died This done King Edward turned home leaving Iohn Warren Earl of Surrey and Sussex Governour of the kingdome Hugh Cressingham Treasurer and Ormsley chief Justice The Bishop of S. Andrewes who was lately come from France not enduring to see the countrey so thralled returned thither appointing Mr. William Knigorne and Peter de Campaigne his Chaplains to supply his absence in all spiritual affaires Robert Bishop of Glasgow and Maurice Bishop of Isles were taken and sent prisoers to London The rest of the Churchmen though permitted to attend their Cures were held under miserable bondage whereupon they secretly dispatched a message to the Pope with William Archdeacon of Lothian Baldred Bisset and William Egishame willing them to lament the oppressions of the Church and the usurpation made upon the countrey and so intreat him as the universal Father of Christendome to use his authority with the King of England ever whom he had power and take the matter to his own hearing unto whose judgement they would simply submit themselves Pope Boniface the eighth
who then ruled that See moved with their prayers sent immediately to Edward and desired him forbear any further proceeding against the Scots alledging with a strange impudence the Soveraignty of Scotland to belong unto the Church The Commissioners nothing pleased with the Popes claim did notwithstanding forbear to take notice of it lest they should make him also their enemy To the same purpose did the Pope write letters to Robert Winchelsey then Archbishop of Canterbury willing him to deal with the King for setling the Bishops of Glasgow and Isles at liberty and the submitting of all controversies between him and the Scots to the judgement of the Apostolick See Kings Edwards answer to the Popes letter was That from all antiquity the direct and superiour dominion of Scotland did appertain to the Kingdome of England even from Brutus unto his own time That it was never yet heard that the Kingdome of Scotland belonged to the Church nor did he think the Scots would confesse so much And that if he should yield to his desire he would unquiet his own Kingdome and draw upon himself the hatred of his subjects which he knew his Holiness would not wish Therefore prayed him to hold him excused and to be perswaded of his affection to the See Apostolick He moved likewise his Nobility who were then met in Parliament at Linclne to write to the Pope to the same effect Albeit somewhat more roundly they told him That the King their Lord ought not to undergoe his judgement in matters of that kinde neither send his Procurators about that business as he had been required seeing that was to call in doubt their Kings title to the prejudice of his Crown the royal dignity the liberties customes and laws of England which by their oath they were bound to observe and would defend with their lives Nor would they permit the King although he would in any way to attempt the same Wherefore they besought his Holiliness to meddle no more in that matter The Pope having his hands full otherwise at the time did upon this dimit the Scottish Commissioners who had made a long stay at Rome with great promises of favour when he should see it to be convenient The supplication directed to the Pope is by some of our Writers said to be sent after King Edwards second expedition into Scotland but I rather think it was at the first Whilest these things were a doing William VVallace a Gentleman well descened but of no great estate began to shew himselfe and gathering out of a desire to free his countrey from the subjection of England a company of such as would adventure with him effected things beyond all expectation for he slew Sir Hugh Cressingham who was left Governour of the Realme recovered most of the strengths and Castles wonne again the Town of Berwick expulsed the English Clergy that had planted themselves in the kingdome and if he had not been hindered by his own countreymen had made his victory absolute King Edward being all that time in Flanders and informed at his return to England of the distractions amongst the Scots themselves fell of new upon them and after a sore defeat given them at Falkirk called a Parlament at S. Andrewes where all the Earls and Barons did again swear obedience unto him not one of any note VVallace excepted standing out in the whole kingdome And now did the State seem to be wholly ruined for Edward intending to make sure his conquest led away captive all that had the least ability to stirre and to extinguish if it had been possible the very memory of the Nation he abolished all the ancient Lawes of Scotland traduced the Ecclesiastical râ—ites to the form of England destroyed the antique monuments erected either by the Romanes or by their own progentitors burnt all the Registers with that famous Library of Restennoth wherein besides many other volumes were reserved the books which King Fergus the second brought with him from Rome removed the Marble Chaire in which as the vulgar believed the fate of the kingdome did consist and to be short left nothing which might incite generous spirits to remember their former fortunes or encourage them in any sort to vertue and worthinesse The Bishop of S. Andrewes who then remained at Artevile in France upon the report of this pitiful vastation did contract such a melancholy as within a few dayes he died his body was interred at the Predicants Church at Paris and his heart brought into Scotland and entombed by Lamberton his successour in the wall of the Church of S. Andrewes nigh to the sepulcher of Gamelinus He was a man careful of the Church and sought by all means to better the estate thereof At his first admission to the See he purchased the Priory of May from the Abbot of Reading in England which he gave afterwards to the Prior and Chanons and had he falled in peaceable times would have performed many good works 26. William Lamberton Parson of Campsey and Chancellour of the Church of Glasgow was then preferred to the place This man after the Bishop of Glasgow was sent prisoner to London made his own peace with King Edward and sware fealty unto him which was the thing that wrought his advancement yet the Culdees who claimed a chief voice in the election of the Bishop withstood him mightily at the first Before the Abbey was founded the Culdees were the onely electors of the Bishop afterwards being excluded by a Bull of Pope Innocent the second the election was committed to the Prior and Chanons whereupon arose a great controversie amongst them which by the authority of good King David was agreed in these times that so many of the Culdees as would become Chanons and enter in the Monastery should have voice with them But to elude this appointment a Mandat was procured from the Pope to admit none in the Convent without the advice of the Prior and most part of the Chanons by which means the Culdees were kept out and deprived quite of all voice in the election William Comin their Provost supposing to get some advantage of the Prior in these troublesome times did strongly oppose Lambertons election and the matter by an appeal drawn to the Consistory of Rome they both went thither to debate their rights in end Lamberton prevailed and was consecrated by Pope Boniface in Iune 1298. This turned so to the disgrace of the Culdees as after this time we hear no more of them the name and Order being by little and little quite extinguished About the same time were the Templars otherwise called the Red-friers made away an Order instituted by Baldwinâ— King of Ierusalem some 200. years before for the defence of that city and the safe conveying of all such as travelled thither by the pious liberality of Princes and others well affected they were in a short time greatly enriched and for their wealth
sore envied Some report that degenerating from their first institution they became execrably vicious But Bocatius Villanus Antonius Naâ—clerus Aventinus and other Authorus do all purge them of the crimes laid to their charge The rumour in that time went that Philip King of France to get one of his sons made King of Ierusalem and possessed with their revenues did labour to have them and the Order condemned But others say that the Pope this was Clement the fifth was mightily offended with them for inveighing against the corruptions of his Court and sinfulnesse of the Clergy which they maintained to be the only cause of all the miseries of Christendome especially of the Holy land But howsoever their destruction was wrought all Authours testifie that notwithstanding the cruel torments which divers of that profession were put unto none of the crimes laid to their charge could ever be made out against them Paulus Emilius in his history writeth that Iames Burgond the Principal of that Order being brought forth to die and whilest the fire was kindling before him having his life offered if he would quickly declare that what he had deponed in the time of his imprisonment both of himself and of his whole Order was true did utter these words In these my last actions it being unpardonable impiety to lie I freely and frankly confess that I committed a great offence both against my self and my Order and that therein I have deserved a most tormenting punishment because in favour of them for whom I should not and allured with the sweetness of life I have in my tortures slanderously imposed many impieties and detractions upon the Order which hath ever deserved well of the Christian world I have no need of life obtained by intreaty much less retained by lying and defamation This said and he being set to the pile and fire kindled about the neather parts of his feet to wring out from him a confession even when the flames began to waste and fire his entrails he never swarved from the constancy of his former speech or shewed the least change and alteration of minde With him two other of the same Order did suffer one of them being of a great family and brother to the Daulphin of Vienna who shewed the like constancie There be other Authours of no small esteem saith Plessis who report That two Cardinals being present at their execution the great Master did summon Pope Clement before the Tribunal of God to answer for the wrongous judgement and sentence given against them and that the Pope died the same day to which he was cited being the 40. day after their execution Partly by these testimonies and partly by the clause insert in the condemnatory Bull of Pope Clement in which it was said Quanquam de jure non possumus tamen pro plenitudine potestatis dictum ordinem reprobamus Albeit by way of right we cannot yet of the fulnesse of our power we reprobate and condemn the said Order by this I say it would appear that they were rigorously used But howsoever all the Kings of Christendome as combining together caused them at one instant to be apprehended within their dominions and put from their estates which afterwards were given to the Hospitalers and Knights of S. Iohn But to return to Lamberton he stood not long in King Edwards favour being suspected for the entertainment he gave to Iames Douglas the son of Willam Douglas who died in Prison at Berwick This Gentleman at the time of his fathers death was in Paris following his studies and being advertised that his father was dead and his estate given away to strangers returned home where finding no means to maintain himself he took his recourse to the Bishop who pitying the Gentlemans estate did accept him amongst his followers and in the next expedition which King Edward made into Scotland taking the Gentleman with him to Striveling did present him to the King intreating that he might have his lands restored and be admitted into his service King Edward answered That he could not look for good service of him whose father had proved such an enemy and that the lands were disponed to others that had merited better So the Gentleman despairing to finde any favour with the King did await still upon the Bishop Afterwards hearing that Robert Bruce had taken the field he stole away secretly taking with him the Bishops horses and moneys and went to assist Bruce King Edward apprehending this to be done with the Bishops knowledge did commit him to Prison where he remained till the death of King Edward which happened in the year 1307. King Robert Bruce was in this time crowned King and by the troubles which Edward the second found in the beginning of his Reign got leisure to settle himself in the Kingdome so as when King Edward returned which was not till seven years after his fathers death to take possession of the Countrey and came with a world of people they are reckoned to be no fewer then two hundreth thousand they were encountred by King Robert at the River of Bannockburn and wholly defeated This victory did so much discourage the English as after a long surcease of warre when some eight years after they attempted to repair themselves they were forced with much dishonour to return and become suiters to the Pope to intercede for peace To this effect a Legate was sent into Scotland who had audience given him at Aberbrothock his Proposition was That the Scots should desist from troubling England till the Pope should hear the questions that were amongst them and be enformed of the right which King Edward had to the Crown of Scotland King Robert answered That the Pope could not be ignorant of the estate of that businesse the same having been often exponed by the Commissioners of Scotland to divers of his predecessours in the hearing of many Cardinals then alive who could relate the insolent answers which Pope Boniface received when he desired the English to forbear their cruell oppression of the Scots And now saith he when it hath pleased God to give us the better by some Victories and that we have not onely recovered our own but are in a possibility to make them live as good neighbours they have recourse to such Treaties seeking onely to gain time that when they have setled their affairs they may fall again upon us with the greater force but in this his Holinesse must excuse me for I will not be so unwise as to let the advantage I have slip out of my hands The Legate not satisfied with this Answer and interpreting it as a disobedience to the Apostolick See did put the Kingdome under Interdiction and so departed But the King to shew how little he esteemed these proceedings followed the Legate at the heels and entering into England wasted all the adjacent Countries with fire and sword At his return
from that expedition an Ambassage was sent to Rome for reconciling the Kingdome and a Letter subscribed by the Nobility and Barons to the Pope the Copy whereof I have thought good to insert Sanctissimo in Christo Patri domino Iohani c. filii sui humiles devoti Duncamus Comes de Fife Thomas Ranulphus Comes Moraviae dominus Manviae dominus Wallis Annandiae Patricius Dumbar Comes Marchiae Malisius Comes Strathern Malcolm us Comes de Lennox Gulielmus Comes de Rosse Magnus Comes Cathannon Orcaden Gulielmus Comes Sutherlandiae Walterus Senescallus Scotiae Gulielmus de Souls Buttelarius Scotiae Iacobus de Douglas David de Brichen David Grahame Ingelramus Umphravile Iohannes Monteith Custos Comitatus ejusdem Alexander Fraser Gilbertus de Haya Constabularius Scotiae Robertus Marescallus Scotiae Henricus de Santo Claro Panitarius Scotiae Iohannes Grahame David Lindsay Patritius Grahame Iohannes de Fenton Gulielmus de Abernethy David de Weymis Gulielmus de Montefixo Fergusius de Androssen Eustathius Maxwell Gulielmus Ramsey Alanus de Moravia Donaldus Champell Iohannes Cameron Reginaldus Loquhoir Alexander Seaton Andreas Leslie Alexander de Straton caeterÃque Barones liberè tenentes tota communitas Regni Scotiae c. Thereafter they said That Scotland being an ancient Kingdome governed by a continued succession of 97. Kings and amongst the first that embraced the faith of Christ living under the patronage of S. Andrew the brother of S. Peter and graced with many privileges by the Popes his predecessors had always been free from usurpation of any stranger before that Edward the father of him that now reigneth in England did in the time of the interreign when the question was of a successour labour by violence to establish the Kingdome to himself since which time they have endured many injuries having their Churches spoiled their Monasteries burnt and their Countrey intolerably oppressed till of late it hath pleased God to stirre up King Robert Bruce who as another Iosua or Iudas Maccabeus had redeemed them by his valour with whom they resolved in defence of their Countrey to spend their lives And if he should forsake them which they knew he would not do so long as they wâ—ere any of them in life England should never bring them in subjection Wherefore they besought his Holinesse to make the English content themselves with the spacious bounds they possessed in which there reigned sometimes seven Kings and suffer the Scots quietly to enjoy that little piece of ground which their progenitors had long defended and left free unto them In end they entreated To be received again into his grace and favour promising all dutifull obedience to him and to the See Apostolick This was the tenor of the Letter which the Pope favourably accepted and thereupon gave order that the â—nglish and Scots should both be warned to a certain Diet for debating their rigâ—â—s The Diet come and the English not appearing the Pope after he had examined the case and perused the rescripts of divers his predecessours released the Interdiction which his Legate had published and declared the Scots to be reconciled to the Church The great discontents which were then amongst the English for the government of affairs under Edward the third who was then made King upon his Fathers resignation brought them to sue for peace which after a short Treaty was concluded and the Peace confirmed by a Match betwixt David Prince of Scotland and Iane sister to King Edward The Conditions of the Peace were these That King Edward should surrender by Charter his Title of Soveraignty of the Kingdom of Scotland Restore whatsoever Acts Deeds and Instruments he had of Homage and Fealty done by the Kings of Scotland or their Nobility to any of his antecessors especially those which Edward the first his Grandfather had by force extorted and leave the Kingdome of Scotland as free as it was at the death of King Alexander the third That the Scots should quit and renounce all the lands they held in England and Stanmore be taken for the March both in Cumberland and in Northumberland That no Englishman should enjoy lands in Scotland unlesse he dwelt in the Countrey And that in satisfaction of the lands possessed by some of them who would not remain in Scotland the King of Scots should pay 30000. Marks Peace thus made and the mariage with great solemnity performed though the Prince was then but seven years old King Robert waxing sickly lived private in a sort untill his death which happened some two years after He was a King of incomparable wisdome and valour whose worth and vertue no pen can expresse Whilest this Peace was treating Lamberton departed this life having continued Bishop thirty years a Prelate wise active and a great Benefactor to the Abbey wherein for the most part he kept his residence The buildings whereof now we onely behold the ruines were erected upon his charges It is reported that being asked by one of his servants on a night Why he did lay out so great summes for the Monastery and forget to build for himself he answered That ere he died he hoped to build more then his successors should well maintain Which he indeed performed for besides the repairing of his Palace in S. Andrews he built at Monymaill Torrey Dersey Inchmortach Mufchart Ketins Lincon Monymusk and Stow in Twaddale houses of good receipt for himself and his successors He finished the Cathedrall Church which had been many years a building and dedicated the same with great solemnity in the year 1318. He adorned the Chapter house with curious seats and ceeling furnished the Chanons with pretious vestments for the daily service stored their Library with Books and at the Dedication of the Church procured of the King who honoured the same with his presence a yearly rent of 100. Marks to be paid to the Abbey forth of the Exchequer which annuity was afterward redeemed by the donation of the Church of Fordon in Mernis he himself the same very day gave unto the Prior and Convent the Churches of Dersey Abercromby as the donations yet extant do testifie and dying at the last in the Priors Chamber within the Monastery was buried in the new Church on the north side of the high Altar in the year 1328. The famous Doctor Ioannes Duns alià s Scotus lived in his time he was born in the Town of Duns in the Countrey of Mers and being yet a childe after some taste he had got of the Latine Tongue by the perswasion of two Minorite Friers went to Oxford studying Logick in Merton College then applying himself to Scholastick Divinity grew to such a perfection therein as he was called The subtile Doctor and was followed of a number who after his name are called to this day Scotistae After he had professed a while at Oxford he was called to reade Divinity in the
much kindnesse of this Gregory at Tholouse in the year 1527. and saith that he died in that City having left divers monuments of his ingenie to the posterity the Catalogue whereof you may see in the place With this I shall joyn another not for any commendation of his learning for he had none nor for his good qualities which were as few but for strange and extraordinary things seen in him which in the time ministred occasion of great talk and wondring to many This man named Iohn Scot having succumbed in a plea at law and knowing himself unable to pay that wherein he was adjudged took sanctuary in the Abbey of Halirudhouse where out of a deep displeasure he abstained from all meat and drink the space of 30 or 40 dayes together Publick rumour bringing this abroad the King would have it put to trial and to that effect shut him up in a private room within the Castle of Edinburgh whereunto no man had accesse he caused a little bread and water to be set by him which he was found not to have tasted in the space of 32. days This proof given of his abstinence he was dimitted and coming forth into the street halfe naked made a speech to the people that flocked about him wherein he professed to do all this by the help of the Blessed Virgin and that he could fast as long as he pleased Many did take it for a miracle esteeming him a person of wonderful holinesse others thought him to be phrentick and mad so as in a short time he came to be neglected and thereupon leaving the countrey went to Rome where he gave the like proof of his fasting to Pope Clement the seventh From Rome he came to Venice apparelled with holy vestures such as the Priests use when they say Masse and carrying in his hand a Testimonial of his abstinence under the Popes Seal he gave there the like proof and was allowed some five Duckats to make his expence towards the holy Sepulcher which he pretended to visit This voyage he performed and then returned home â— bringing with him some palm-tree leaves and a scripful of stones which he said were a part of the pillar to which our Saviour was tied when he was scourged and coming by London went up into the Pulpit in Panls Church-yard where he cast forth many speeches against the divorce of King Henry from Katherine his Queen inveying bitterly against him for his defection from the Roman See and thereupon was thrust in prison where he continued 50. dayes fasting After that being dimitted for they held him to be a mad man he came directly into Scotland and remained in company with one Thomas Doughty who a little before was returned from Italy and had built a little Chappel to the holy Virgin with the money he had begged in his travel This man by his counterfeit miracles made great advantage amongst the simple people and albeit he was known to be a cousening fellow and in life extremely vicious yet was he suffered by the Clergy to abuse the ignorant multitude for that the opinion of Purgatory Pardons and prayers to Saints which began then every where to be despised was by this mean nourished amongst the people Scot grudging that Doughty did appropriate all the gain he made to himselfe did not admit him a partner in the same retired to a house in the suburbs of Edinburgh at the Western part of the Town and therein erected a religious Altar which he adorned in the best manner he could setting up his daughter a young maid of reasonable beauty upon the Altar and placing lights and torches round about her the simple sort for a long time believed her to be the Virgin Mâ—ry and frequented the place in great numbers to do her worship but the knavery coming to be detected he forsook his Altar and forgetting all his devotion returned to his first trade and manner of life Lesley in his story saith that he prophesied many things concerning the decay of the Romish Religion and the restitution of it in a short time of the decay he might speak having seen it begun but for other things he was a dreamer rather then a Propher 40. The first act of the Cardinal after his promotion did shew what an enemy he would be to those who in that time were called hereticks for he was not well warmed in his seat when to make his greatnesse seen he brought to S. Andrews the Earles of Huntley Arran Marshall and Montrosse the Lords Fleming Lindsay 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 with divers other Barons and men of quality There came thither also Gawine Archbishop of Glasgow Chancellour William Bishop of Aberdene Henry Bishop of Galloway Iohn Bishop of Briâ—â—en and William Bishop of Dumblane The Abbots of Melross Dunfermlin Lindors and Kinlosse with a number of Priors Deans and Doctors of Theologie And they all having convened in the Cathedral Church he sitting in a Chair somewhat erected above the rest for that he was a Cardinal began to expone the dangers wherein the Catholick faith stood by the increase of hereticks and the boldnesse they took to professe their opinions openly even in the Kings Court where he said they found too great countenance In special he named Sir Iohn Borthwick commonly called Captain Borthwick whom he had caused cite to that Diet for dispersing heretical books and for maintaining divers Articles contrary to the doctrine of the Romane Church desiring their assistance in the procedure of Justice against him The heads of the accusation were read 1. That he held the Pope to have no greater authority over Christians then any other Bishop or Prelat had 2. That Indulgences and Pardons granted by the Pope were of no force nor effect but devised to abuse people and deceive poor ignorant soules 3. That Bishops Priests and other Clergy men may lawfully marry 4. That the heresies commonly called the heresies of England and their new Liturgy was commendable and to be embraced of all Christians 5. That the people of Scotland are blinded by their Clergy and professed not the true faith 6. That Churchmen ought not to enjoy any temporalties 7. That the King ought to convert the rents of the Church into other pious uses 8. That the Church of Scotland ought to be governed after the manner of the English 9. That the Canons and Decrees of the Church were of no force as being contrary to the law of God 10. That the Orders of Friers and Monks should be abolished as had been done in England 11. That he did openly call the Pope Simoniack for that he sold spritual things 12. That he did read heretical books and the New Testament in English and some other Treatises written by Melanchthon Oecolampadius and Erasmus which he gave likewise unto others 13. The last and greatest point was that he refused to acknowledge the authority of the Romane See or be subject
thereunto These accusations he not appearing nor any in his behalfe were taken as confessed and he denounced an heretick yea an heresiarch for so the sentence beareth his goods ordained to be confiscat himself burnt in effigie if he could not otherwise be apprehended and all manner of persons inhibited to relieve or entertain him under the pain of cursing or forfeiture This sentence was given against him the 28 of May Anno 1540. and the same day was his picture burnt in the open Market place of S. Andrews as likewise in Edinburgh some two dayes after Sir Iohn Borthwick hearing how they had proceeded against him fled into England where he was kindly received by Henry the eighth then reigning and by him imployed in a Commission to the Protestant Princes in Germany for a confederation betwixt him and them in defence of their common profession King Henry had some years before sent into Scotland the Bishop of S. Davids to present the King his Nephew with some English books containing an Exposition of the principal heads of Christian Religion thinking to induce him to make the like reformation which he had made in England And at that time came Lord William Howard to desire the King to meet his Uncle King Henry at York upon some occasions tending to the common good of both Kingdomes The King consenting a Diet was appointed and all things prepared for the journey But the Cardinal and Clergy fearing the effects of that conference laboured with the Courtiers to divert him and before the King himselfe they laid divers terrours as That he would be detained prisoner in England as King Iames the first had beenâ— That he should make himself suspected to the Emperour and to his old confederate the French King And which he was most to regard incurre the Popes displeasure by treating too familiarly with him that was lying under the highest censure of the Church Yet stood the King resolute for the journey foreseeing as also it happened that if he should break the Diet the same might breed the English Kings dislike and be an occasion of warre on which he would not hazard unlesse he knew of means to entertain the same The Clergy hereupon besides the representation of some moneys in hand made offer of an annuity of fifty thousand Crownes if warre should fall out declaring withall that by confiscating the goods of hereticks he might gain an hundred thousand more And with such vain hopes they brought him to send a fair excuse to King Henry by Sir Iames Learmouth his domestick After this the King being ruled wholly by the Cardinal followed in all things the appetite of the Clergy giving commission to Sir Iames Hamilton his Theasurer to call and convene all persons suspected of heresie and inflict the punishments which after trial they should be found to merit The King was also heard say That none of that sort should expect any favour at his hands nay not his own sonnes if they should prove guilty which put many in fear But this continued not long for Sir Iames Hamilton becoming suspected and accused of a practice against the King his life was shortly after executed and warre breaking out with England he found the Nobility averse from the incursions he intended to make which did greatly discontent him These thoughts with some fearful visions he had by night that much terrified him withdrew his mind wholly from the extremities on which the Clergy had set him for at Linlithgow on a night as he slept it seemed to him that Thomas Scot Justice Clerk came unto him with a company of devils crying Woe worth the day that ever I knew thee or thy service serving thee against God and against his servants I am adjudged to hell torments Hereupon awaking he called for lights and causing his servants to arise told what he had heard and seen The next morrow by the light of day advertisement was brought him of the Justice Clerk his death which fell out just at the time that the King found himself so troubled and in the same manner almost for he died in great unquietnesse iterating often these words Iusto Dei judicio condemnatus sum by the righteous judgement of God I am condemned The form of his death answering the dream so justly made it the more terrible Another vision he had in the same place not many nights after which did more affright him whilest he lay a sleeping he imagined that Sir Iames Hamilton whom he caused to be executed came unto him with a sword drawn in his hand and therewith cut off both his Armes threatening within a short time to return and deprive him of his life With this he awaked and as he lay musing what the dream could import news were brought him of the death of his two sonnes Iames and Arthur who died at S. Andrews and Striveling at one and the very same hour The next year which was the year of our Lord 1542. being overwhelmed with grief and passion for the losse of his Army received at Solway he departed this life at Falkland in the 32. year of his age Some few dayes before he died he had advertisement that his Queen was delivered of a daughter at Linlithgow at which time it is said he burst forth in passion saying It came with a lasse meaning the Crown and will go with a lasse fie upon it after which he was not heard to utter many words The Cardinal hearing that the King was deceased did suborn a Priest called Henry Balfour to form his last Will whereby it was declared that he had committed to the Cardinal the Earls of Huntley Argyle and Murray the government of the Realm during his daughters minority This Will he caused publish in Edinburgh on the Monday after the Kings death but the Nobles giving it no credit and esteeming it a meer forgery did choose the Earle of Arran Regent and Governour of the Realme Never was any Governour received with greater love and opinion of all sorts for besides the favour carried to himselfe every one was glad to be freed of the Cardinals Government and by his first beginnings a strong hope was conceived that all things should be reformed which were amisse both in Church and Kingdome But this hope soon vanished in the manner that ye shall hear King Henry of England hearing that his Nephew the King of Scots was dead and that he had left one only daughter of seven dayes old began to think of uniting the two Kingdomes and reducing the whole Isle under one Government by the marriage of Edward his son a Prince of five years old to the young Queen of Scots Hereupon he sent for the Earls of Cassils and Glancarne the Lords of Fleming Maxwell and Gray who were taken prisoners at Solway and detained in England to Hampton Court where he then lay and at their coming proponed the businesse
unto them with an offer to dimit them freely so as they would promise to use their best means with the Governour and others of the Nobility of Scotland for obtaining their consents to the Match The Noblemen liking the motion and esteeming it a ready means to establish a lasting Peace gave their promise to deal faithfully in it and so were sent home with many liberal promises if the marriage should take effect In their company returned the Earl of Angus and his brother Sir George who had been exiled a long time in England with letters to the Governour from the King for their restitution The matter being moved to the Governour and Councel it was liked by all the Queen-mother and the Cardinal only excepted and for this a Parliament was called at Edinburgh the 13. of March following whither came Sir Ralph Sadler as Ambassadour from King Henry to attend the successe In the beginning a great stirre was made by the Cardinal and Clergy that adhered to him so as the Estates could come to no conclusion whereupon the Cardinal was committed in the Castle of Dalkeith The day following by an uniform consent the Match was agreed and the Earl of Glancarne Sir George Dowglas brother to the Earl of Angus Sir William Hamilton of Forne and Sir Iames Learmouth of Dersay imployed by the Estates to transact with King Henry upon all particulars In this Parliament upon a petition presented to the Estates for restraining the power of the Prelates in pursuing those they called hereticks and for liberty to read the Scripture in the English language Commission was granted to some selected persons for considering the petition and prescribing what was fit to be done therein The Commissioners meeting after the Parliament was broke up declared That it should be lawful for every one that could read to use the English Translation of the Bible untill the Prelates should publish one more correct Intimation of this liberty being sent through all the Kingdome by the Governours direction the Clergy did declaim against him as a favourer of hereticks taking exception at two Preachers he entertained in his house the one called Frier William the other Iohn Rough who did openly in their Sermons inveigh against the Popes authority the adoration of Images invocation of Saints and other superstitious inventions of Rome In the end of Iuly the Ambassadours directed towards England returned with satisfaction in all particulars concerning the marriage and so the contract betwixt the two Kingdomes was signed by the Governor and those whom the States had deputed for the part of Scotland and by Sir Ralph Sadler Ambassadour for the part of England and the Seals of the Kingdome interchanged as use is The Governour and English Ambassadour for the greater assurance did solemnly swear to observe the Contract in all Articles thereof dividing the holy Sacrament amongst them as the custome then was And now all matters lookt fair no man wishing them to go better for in the Governours Court was nothing seen that the severest eye could censure or reprove In the publick Government such a moderation was kept as no man was heard to complain The Governour was reverently obeyed and held in as great respect as any Kings of preceding times To be short every man did promise himself a blessed and happy time which on suddain all was overturned and the Realm cast in greater troubles then before Iohn Hamilton Abbot of Paisley base brother to the Governour and David Panter afterwards removed to the Bishoprick of Ross who had lived a long time in France returning about this time into the countrey and being devoted to the French dealt privately with the Governour who was of an easie nature and apt to be taken by those he trusted to break the contract with England But having small hope to prevaile so long as the Preachers and Gentlemen whose counsel he followed remained with him they used all means to be rid of them Frier Guilielm fearing to be called in question for his doctrine at which the Abbot was ever excepting withdrew himself and went into England Iohn Rough upon some colour was dimitted to preach in the parts of Kile and Carrick The Laird of Grainge Master Henry Balnaves Master Thomas Ballenden and Sir David Lindsay of the Mont who had attended the Governour ever since the time of his promoving to the Regency had such discontents given them as they were made too weary of their attendance and the meaner sort such as Mr. Michael Durham Mr. David Borthwick David Forres and David Bothwel men that had served him faithfully and of a long time were openly menaced and forced to quit their services Neither was the Cardinal in this time idle for being by the Queens intercession removed from Dalkeith to the place of Seaton he went from thence without warrant to S. Andrews none calling him therefore in question for the Governours brother who was then preferred to be Theasurer and ruled all things at Court made up a secret friendship with him Shortly after in a frequent meeting of the Clergy at S. Andrews the Cardinal laying before them the dangers wherewith the Clergy was threatned by the Match with England did earnestly incite them to oppose it and contribute moneys and imploy all their friendship to the contrary seeing it concerned them no lesse then their lives or estates were worth They making no difficulty and offering to contribute all their means to that effect appointed a present collection to be made which was trusted to his disposing The Friers were directed to inveigh in their Sermons against their alliance and the Priests set on to stirre up the popular against the Ambassadour who had many indignities offered him which he patiently digested lest he should be thought to minister any occasion of breach How soon the day appointed for delivering the pledges was come for that was a condition in the contract the Ambassadour went unto the Governour and put him in mind of the pledges that by the contract he was obliged to enter complaining withall of the disgraces that he and his Master the King of England received The Governour answering first his complaint of the insolencies committed said He should take trial and punish the committers in such sort as all might see what affection he bore to the King and Countrey of England But for the pledges he said I can neither move them to enter willingly nor force them if they be unwilling For you see what a mutiny is raised in the countrey by the Cardinal and how uncertain I am of mine own estate Till this be quieted I know not in that point what to answer The Ambassadour who understood that to be truth which he spoke forbare to urge the delivery of the pledges any more saying he would advertise his Master how the case stood and attend his directions Soon after the Ambassadour was recalled the
questioned if at any time since his last coming into England he had preached he answered That he had not preached but in some places where godly people were assembled he did read the prayers of the the Communion Book set forth in the Reign of King Edward the sixth And being asked what his judgement was of the said book he confessed That he did approve the same as agreeing in all points with the word of God The Bishop used many perswasions to make him recant and detained him some weeks in prison to try what he would do but finding him resolute and constant in his profession he brought him forth to be judged Where one Morgan a Bishop of S. Davids assisting he was charged first That being a Priest and in Orders he had married a wife next That he refused to use the Latine Service and thirdly That he would not go to the Masse To the first point he answered That Orders were not an impediment to marriage and that he had done lawfully in taking a wife To the second and third he said If he were to live Methuselahs dayes he would neither use the Latine Service nor be present at Masse which he counted abominable Upon these answers he was condemned degraded and put in the hands of the secular Magistrate who the next morning being the 21. of November caused him to be burnt in Smithfield Thus ended that worthy Minister and Martyz of Christ of whom I thought fit in this place to say so much though his sufferings fell out some years after The summer following about the beginning of Iune the absolution promised to those of the Castle returned from Rome whereupon the Keepers were required to render the house according to the capitulation made But they alledging the absolution not to be sufficient because of some words contained in the Bull wherein it was said remittimus crimen irremissibile we remit a crime which cannot be remitted refused to accept the same It was answered that such a clause was insert only for aggravating the crime and that the absolution was in it self valid enough But they would not be satisfied and so complaining that promise was not kept with them resolved to stand to their defence In the end of the same moneth there arrived twenty one Gallies sent from France under the command of Leon Strozius within sight of the Castle The Governour was at that time in the borders and upon advertisement of the Gallies arriving came with such diligence as divers who belonged to the Castle being in the City had no leisure to re enter and some who were gone thither for private businesse were forced to stay within Shortly after his coming the siege was confirmed by sea and land trenches cast and the Canons planted some in the Abbey steeple some in S. Salvators and some in the street that leads to the Castle Then began the battery both by sea and land but that of the sea did not great harm The siege continuing all the moneth of Iuly upon the twenty nineth day in the South-quarter on which the Canon had played furiously that morning a great breach was made this terrifying the defendants who to that time shewed great courage expecting reliefe from England and indeed a navall Army was prepared to come but King Henry dying about the same time it was stayed beside the danger they apprehended of the breach the plague within the house was hot thereof every day a number died So perceiving no help and the sickness increasing they came to a capitulation where it was agreed that the lives of all within the Castle should be saved the Principals transported unto France and if they liked not to remain there be conveighed upon the French Kings charges to what countrey they pleased Scotland excepted Immediately the Castle was rendered to the French Captain who sent his men to receive the prisoners and make spoile of all that was in the house They found of victuals great store wherewith they furnished the Gallies But the Cardinals treasure and household-stuffe which was very precious pleased them better All this with the wealth the defendants had for they had brought all their substance thither fell into the hands of the French the fourth or fifth day after the Gallies put to Sea and about the midst of August arrived safe at Roan in Normandy where some of the prisoners were incarcerated others detained all the winter in the Gallies especially Iohn Knox Mr. Iames Balsom with his brothers David and Gilbert The Castle after the French were gone was by act of Councel demolished which some said was done to satisfie the Popes law that ordaines the places where Cardinals are slain to be ruinated but the true cause was the fear the Governour had that England should take the house and fortifie it as they did some others a short while after This revenge taken of the Cardinals death gave the Priests some satisfaction who reckoned it a part of their happinesse to be rid in this sort of Iohn Knox and others that they knew to be their enemies But the Duke of Somerset entering with a strong Army into Scotland in September next put all in a new feare The Governour sent Proclamations through the countrey charging all that could bear Armes to meet at Edinburgh for the defence of the Realm many of all sorts assembled and with greater diligence then was expected which made the Duke of Somerset who was a Nobleman well inclined and hated the shedding of blood to write unto the Governour and Nobility intreating them to consider That both the Armies consisted of Christian men who above all things if they were not forgetful of their profession ought to wish peace and quietnesse and have in detestation warre and unjust force as likewise to remember that the cause of the present invasion did not proceed from covetousnesse or malice but from the desire of a perpetual peace which could not be so firmly made up by any mean as by marriage which they knew was promised and by the publick consent of the whole Estates ratified upon conditions more beneficial to the Scots then to the English insomuch that they were called not unto a servitude but unto a common fellowship and a liberal communication of all their fortunes which could not but be more commodious to the Scots then to the English the hope of advantage and the fear of injuries being alwayes greater from the party that is more strong to that which is the weaker And for the businesse in hand he desired them to consider this especially that seeing there was a necessity of giving their Queen in marriage to some man if they did either respect their profit or honour they could not make a better choice then of a King their neighbour born in the same Isle joyned in propinquity of blood instructed in the same lawes educated in the same manners and language superiour in riches and in all
external commodities and ornaments and such a one as would bring with him a perpetual peace together with the oblivion of ancient grudges and hatreds For should they take a stranger to be their King differing from themselves in language manners and lawes great evils and discommodities could not but arise as they might know by that which had fallen out in the like case to other nations by whose ensample he wished they should be made wise As for the part of England he said if they did find the minds of the Scots not estranged from peace they would remit somewhat of their right and be contented that the young Queen should be kept amongst themselves untill she were fit for marriage and might chuse a husband to her self by advice of the Nobility during which time all hostility should cease betwixt the two Kingdomes it being provided that the Queen should not be sent to any forain countrey nor contracted in marriage with the French King nor any other Prince which if the Scots would faithfully promise he would presently retire with his Army and recompense all injuries done since his coming into Scotland at the sight and estimation of honest men This letter the Governour communicated to his brother and to a few others on whose counsel he depended such as George Dury Abbot of Dunfermlin Mr. Archebald Beaton and Mr. Hugh Rig a Lawyer who gave him advice to suppresse the letter for they feared if the offers were published the greater part of the Nobility would embrace the same and in stead thereof they made a rumour to be dispersed through the Army that the English were come to take away the Queen by force and bring the Kingdome into subjection The Nobles and whole Army believing this to be the effect of the letter became mightily incensed Nor did any kithe so foolish as the Priests and Clergy men who dreaming of nothing but victory cried out that the English hereticks had no spirits and durst not come to a battaile But they found themselves deceived for upon Saterday the tenth of September 1547. the Armies joyning the Scots were put to the worse and many thousands slain few in the fight which lasted not long but exceeding many in the chase The English pursuing the victory came forwards to Leith where they remained eight dayes dividing the spoile and prisoners and in that time surprised the Isles of Inchkeith and Inchcolme in the river of Forth with Broughtie Castle in the mouth of Tay which places they strongly fortified In their return homewards they took the Castle of Home with the house of Fascastle and placed Garisons in the Townes of Haddington Lawder and Roxborough The Governour the Bishop his brother and such of the Nobles as escaped in the flight went to Striveling and there taking counsel what should be done with the young Queen concluded to send her to the Castle of Dumbarton under the custody of the Lords Areskin and Levingston and to advertise the King of France how matters went intreating of him a supply both of men and money Hereupon the next summer arrived at Leith three thousand Germanes under the charge of Count Rhingrave with as many French commanded by Monsieur de Andelot Monsieur de Mallery and Monsieur d' Ossel Monsieur d' Esse being General of the whole This supply did so hearten the Governour as gathering together an Army he beleaguered the Town of Haddington which the English had at that time made very strong The Nobility being there convened entered of new into a consultation touching the young Queen and the course that should be taken with her The French Generall desired she should be sent into France and espoused to the Daulphin which the Queen her Mother longed to have done The Noblemen were not of one minde for such as favoured the reformation were of opinion that the conditions offered by England which were then come to light should be embraced because that would bring with it ten years of peace at least in which time if either King Edward of England or the young Queen should depart this life all things would return to their first estate and if no such things happened yet the Kingdome being at rest and freed of the present troubles would grow to some better ease within it self and they might more maturely advise what course was fittest to be taken Delay they said in matters of such consequence was safest and that precipitation might bring with it a suddain but untimely repentance The rest stood all for the French most of them being corrupted with gold and others with large promises The Governour himself had an annuity promised of twelve thousand francks and a company of men at Armes to the Earle of Arran his sonne All these pretending the safety of the young Queen did reason that there was no other way to be rid of the English warres but that one For as long as the English have any hope said they to speed they will still be troubling but when they shall see the Queen gone and that there is no remedy they will cease from their pursuit The greatest number inclining that way it was concluded that the young Queen should be conveyed to France Shortly after the French Navy that lay at Leith giving out that they were to return home compassing the North Isles received her at Dunbrition and after much tossing at sea did safely land her in France The warres with England in the mean time went on and continued full two years till by the treaty of Bulloign in the yare 1550. a peace was made the Lord Chastilion being Commissioner for the French the Earl of Bedford for the English and David Panter Bishop of Ross for the Scots At that time were Normond Lesley Mr. Henry Balnaves Iohn Knox and others who had been kept partly in prison and partly in the Gallies since the taking of S. Andrews Castle put to liberty Mr. Iames Balfour had freed himself long before by abjuring his profession and was become Official to the Bishop of S. Andrews Iames Melvil died in the Tower of Brest in Britain William Kircaldie Peter Carmichal with Robert and William Leslies who were imprisoned in Mont S. Michael found means to escape before the Treaty and went into England Norman after he was freed returned into Scotland but fearing the Governour he went into Denmark where not finding that kind reception he expected he betook himself to England and had an honourable pension allowed him which was thankfully answered during the life of King Edward the sixt Queen Mary succeeding he found not the like favour and thereupon went to France where he had a company of men of Armes given him with which he served the French King in his warres against the Emperour Charles the fifth and in pursuing the enemy whom he had in chase was wounded with the shot of a Pistoll whereof he died the day after at Montreul He was
was of old an Abbey founded by Constantine the third King of Picts about the year 729. to the memory of S Columbe in which the Culdees were placed King David in the year 1130. did erect it to be a Bishops See and recommending one Gregorius to the place obtained Pope Alexander the third his confirmation thereof he sate 42. years and was much favoured by that good King The lands of Anchtertaile with divers others appertaining to that See were of King David his gift This Bishop diet at Dunkeld in the year 1169. 2. Richard Chaplain to King William was elected in his place and consecrated in S. Andrews upon the vigils of S. Laurrence by Richard Bishop of S. Andrews This Bishop was commended for vindicating the Church of Abercorne forth of the hands of a laick person named Iohn Avonele who claimed the Patronage thereof he sate four years and dying at Crawmold was buried in S. Colmes Inche in the year 1173. 3. Cormacus succeeded in his place to whom King William gave the lands of Dalgathy he died in the year 1177. 4. In his place was chosen Walter de Bidden who was Chancellour to King William but he lived not many years 5. Iohn Scot an English man born being Archdeacon of S. Andrews had been elected Bishop of that See but that his election being withstood by the King as we shewed before he was after Biddens death promoved by the Popes consent to Dunkeld a man that made conscience of his charge and was painful in his office The countrey of Argyle was at that time of the Dioces of Dunkeld the people whereof did only speak Irish and neither understood the Bishop nor he them Upon this he travelled to have the Dioces divided and Argyle erected into an Episcopal See and to that effect sent a letter to Pope Clement the third intreating that one Evaldus his Chaplain who could speak Irish a wise and godly person might have the charge of that part committed to him for How said he can I make an accompt to the Iudge of the world in the last day when I cannot be understood of them whom I teach The maintenance is sufficient for two Bishops if we be not prodigal of the patrimony of Christ and will live with that moderation which becometh his servants it shall therefore be much better to diminish the charge and increase the number of able workmen in the Lords field The Pope reading the letter and considering how earnest he was to be eased of his charge though to his own temporal losse said It is the study of others to enlarge their bounds and livings not caring how it goeth with the people and here is one that requesteth his Benefice may be parted in two O how few Bishops are now in the Christian world so disposed and so commending greatly the Bishops disposition granted his request sending back Evaldus for he was the messenger consecrated Bishop as was desired The Bishop glad to have obtained his desire entered Evaldus to the charge and followed diligently his own in that part which remained Some few dayes before his death he rendred himself a Monk in Newbotle and there departed this life in the year 1203. his body was interred in the Quire of that Church upon the North side of the Altar William Bining afterwards Abbot of Cowper did write his life but the story is perished 6. After his death Richard Provand King Williams Chaplain was consecrated Bishop and lived a few years onely in the See for he departed this world in the year 1210. and was buried in Inchcolme 7. Iohn Leicester cousen to King William and elected successour and dying at Crawmond was buried in Inchcolme with his predecessour in the year 1214. 8. Hugo called Hugo de sigillo a Monk of Aberbrothock succeeded unto Leicester a man of a sweet and amiable disposition he was called the poor mans Bishop and lived not a year after his consecration 9. Matthew Chancellour of Scotland was then elected but he died the same year before he was consecrated 10. To him succeeded Gilbert Chaplain to Bishop Hugo he sate 22. years and died in the year 1236. 11. Galfrid Liverance was elected in his stead This Bishop was a zealous man he reformed the service of the Church ad usum Sarum and ordained the Chanons to make residence at Dunkeld giving them the Commons of that Church for their entertainment He died at Tibbermoore in the yeare 1249. and was buried at Dunkeld 12. After Galfrids death Richard Chancellour to the King succeeded and dying the same year at Crawmond was buried in Inchcolme 13. After him Mr. Richard of Innerkething Chancellour of Scotland was elected who sate 22. years he built the great Quire of the Abbey Church in Inchcolme upon his own charges and died very old in the year 1272. He is much commended for his faithful service done to King Alexander His body was interred at Dunkeld and his heart laid in the North wall of the Quire which he built in Inchcolme 14. Robert Sutevile Dean of Dunkeld debarred at first from the Bishoprick of S. Andrews by the ambitious suite of Abill the Archdeacon was at this time preferred to be Bishop of Dunkeld he died in the year 1300. and governed the See 28. yeares Moribus scientia vita praeclarus 15. After him Matthew by recommendation of Edward the first of England who kept Scotland then under subjection was advanced to the Bishoprick and sate 12. yeares 16. William Sinclare a brother of the house of Roslin and Uncle to William Lord Bisset succeeded This is he that King Robert the Bruce used to call his own Bishop for the King being in Ireland with an Army for the supply of his brother Edward the English taking advantage of his absence sent two Armies to invade the kingdom the one by land the other by sea The Sea Army landed in Fife near to Anchtertaile where the Bishop had his residence which the Sheriffe of the countrey for hindering their depredations went to encounter but at the sight of their numbers he gave back and fled the Bishop hearing of their flight brought forth his ordinary train and casting himself in the Sheriffes way asked why he fled and having checkt him bitterly for his cowardize called for a lance crying aloud You that love the honour of Scotland follow me By this forwardnesse he put such courage in the rest as they returning upon the English did chase them all back to their ships one of the ship-boats overcharged with the company that leapt into it was sunk and in that conflict were drowned and slain 500. English and above The honour of this victory was wholly ascribed to the Bishops courage for which he was greatly favoured by the King He built in his time the Quire of Dunkeld from the ground which the Army of England had demolished redeemed the lands of Green oke from one Simon Cader and gave to his Archdeacon the Church of Logia Leguhy with
Edward 5. And after Edward Robert Reid a man of excellent wit and great experience employed in divers legations and selected amongst others by the Estates to assist the marriage of Queen Mary with the Daulphin of France he died in his return at Deep much regretted for he was a man of great integrity and careful in the administration of Justice The Bishops of GLASGOW This City at first was made famous by Kentigern commonly called Saint Mungho who is esteemed the first Bishop thereof I spake of him before and shewed how he was begotten by Eugenius the third upon Thametis daughter to the King of Picts his mother finding her self with childe out of shame and fear of her fathers wrath stole privately away and entring into a little vessel that she found at the nearest coast was by the winde and waves cast on land where the town of Culross is now situated there was delivered of her birth and leaving the childe with a nurse returned home his Parents being unknown he was brought to Servanus and baptized and bred up by him yet it â—â—ems by the hymne they did ordinarily sing in the Festivals that his Father came afterwards to be known for thus it beginnes ... They report of him that a Lady of good place in the countrey having lost a ring which her husband gave her as she crossed the river of Cluyd and her husband waxing jealous as if she had bestowed the same upon one of her lovers she did mean her self unto him intreating his help for the safety of her honour and that he going to the river after he had used his devotion willed one who was making to fish to bring him the first that he caught which was done in the mouth of that fish he found the ring and sending it to the Lady she was thereby freed of her husbands suspicion The credit of this I believe upon the reporters but howsoever it be the See and City do both of them wear in their Armes a fish with a ring in the mouth even to this day He was certainly a man of rare piety and to the poor exceeding bountiful lived to a great age beyond the ordinary course of men as in the conclusion of the hymne is said Cum octogenos centum quoque quinque vir annos Complerat sanctus est Glasgow funere functus After his death for many ages the See was in a manner desolate unto the reign of Malcolm the third who restored the same to some integrity The first Bishop I find named after the restitution was 1. Iohn Achaian who took great paines in building the Cathedral and having brought it to a reasonable perfection did dedicate the same in the year 1137. King David being there in person and bestowing upon the See the lands of Patrick which the Bishops do yet enjoy It was in his time that Thurstan Archbishop of York encroaching upon his jurisdiction which at that time comprehended the countrey of Cumberland placed a new Bishop at Carlisle by the instigation of Henry King of England This the Bishop took so heavily as when he perceived his complaints not much regarded he forsook his charge and went into France inclosing himself in the Monastery of Tours where he abode untill the Pope at the request of King Malcolm the fourth compelled him to return after which time he lived not long for he died at Glasgow in the year 1146. the twenty eighth of May. 2. To him succeeded another called Iohn who was greatly favoured by King Alexander the first and did counsel Eadmerus because of the Kings dislike to leave S. Andrews and return unto England 3. Herbert was his successour and in his time the controversie with York was great for the superiority claimed by one Roger Archbishop of York over the Bishops of Scotland This contention drew Angelramus Archdeacon of Glasgow and Chancellour of the Kingdom for the time to travel unto Rome as was touched before and Herbert dying whilest he was there 4. Angelramus by an uniform consent of the Clergy and Laity was elected in his place and upon notice given of the election consecrated by Pope Alexander at Rome from whom he obtained an exemption to the Church of Scotland from the jurisdiction of the English and all others the Apostolick See only excepted Shortly after his return he died 5. Iocelin Abbot of Melrosse was his successour in his time the City of Glasgow was erected into a Burgh Royal he died at Melrosse and was interred in that Monastery 6. Eugenius was chosen after his death but how long he lived I read not 7. Hugo Chancellour of the Kingdome succeeded and lived but a few years 8. After him VVilliam Malvoisin a French man was elected and consecrated in France by the Popes direction he was afterward translated to S. Andrews and preferred to the office of Chancellary 9. Florentius sonne to the Count of Holland was assumed in his place and shortly after upon licence obtained of the Pope he resigned the office and died at Rome in the year 1207. 10. And then VValter Chaplain to King William was consecrated Bishop he lived in the place 27. yeares 11. VVilliam Babington Chancellor of the Kingdom was after his death elected Bishop In his time as Boeth writeth the fabrick of the Church of Glasgow was fully accomplished his words are Absolutum est ea tempestate templum Cathedrale Glasguense sedes profectò magnifica cujus haud exiguam partem Gulielmus ibidem Episcopus liberalitate sua extruxerat nec diu operi perfecto superfuit He died the 25. of Ianuary 1261. 12. The Chanons meeting to choose a successor condescended upon Nicole Moffet Archdeacon of Teviot-dale yet shortly after forthinking their election they procured the same to be cassed at Rome whither he was gone to obtain Confirmation Thereupon Iohn de Chyan an English man was by the Pope provided to the See whom King Alexander the third admitted with great difficulty This man is said to have been learned but very troublesome to the Chanons upon whom he laid grievous impositions The discord betwixt him and them waxing hot he left the countrey and going to France died there in the year 1268. 13. Nicole Moffet Archdeacon of Teviot-dale was upon his death provided to the See notwithstanding the opposition of the Chanons but he lived a short time and died at Tannigham of the Apoplexie He was no lesse hated of his Clergy whom he is said to vex with many injuries 14. William Wishart Archdeacon of S. Andrews and Chancellor of the Kingdome was chosen of the Chanons in the year 1270. but S. Andrews falling void by the death of Gamelinus before his consecration he was postulated thereto and so returned to S. Andrews 15. Robert Wishart Archdeacon of Lothian and Cousen to the said VVilliam was upon his change by the Kings recommendation admitted to the place This is he who made that reply to King Edward in the consultation held at Norham for the right of the
Of the Bishops of the Isles I have lesse to say onely that the Isle of Man was at first the Cathedral seat as by occasion we touched before and that by the invasions of the Norvegians and English the same was translated unto Ilcolmkill In Man Amphibalus was the first Bishop I read of one Machilla likewise that was there Bishop and confirmed the holy Brigida in her purpose of single life After the translation of the seat to Ilcolmkill I find onely one Onacus mentioned about the year 1289. who is reported to have been a good and godly man with another called Mauricius whom King Edward the first of England sent prisoner to London And thus farre of the succession of Bishops unto the time of the Reformation THE HISTORY of the CHURCH OF SCOTLAND THE THIRD BOOK The Contents The History of the Reformation of the Church and how it was wrought THE Petitions put up to Queen Regent for reformation of the Church taking no effect some Noblemen and Barons joyning in Councel did bind themselves by oâ—thes and subscriptions to assist one another and hazard their lives and substance in advancing the cause of Religion The principals were Archibald Earl of Argyle Alexander Earl of Glencarne James Earl of Morton Archibald Lord of Lorne Sir Iames Sandelands of Calder Iohn Erskin of Dun and William Maitland of Lethington younger They meeting together after deliberation what should be fittest first to do concluded That in all Parishes the Curates should be caused read the Prayers and Lessons of the Old and New Testament on Sundayes and other Festival dayes according to the form set forth in the Book of Common Prayers and if they should refuse that the most qualified in every Parish should do the same But for preaching and interpretation of Scripture the same should be used only in private houses after a quiet manner till God should move the Queen to grant further liberty This accordingly was performed in the parts where they had Commandment and by their example in divers Townes and Parishes of the countrey the like was done to the great offence of the Clergy who complaining of that boldnesse to the Queen Regent were answered that it was no fit time to enter into those matters and that she should find occasion ere it were long to put order unto them But the Clergy fearing delayes did forthwith call a Provincial Councel at Edinburgh where professing to make reformation of abuses they renewed some old Popish constitutions which they made to be imprinted and affixed upon the doors of all the Parish Churches The Bishop of S. Andrewes advertised of the Reformation begun in Argyle sent to the Earl Sir David Hamilton his Cousen with a letter wherein after he had shewed the perill in which he did cast both himself and his house by that open defection from the Church he desired him in some honest fashion to rid himself of that defamed and perjured Apostate who had seduced him This was one Mr. Iohn Douglas whom the Earl had taken to be his Minister offering to provide him of a learned and wise Preacher for whom he would lay his soul in pawn that he should teach no other but true doctrine and agreeable to the Catholick faith The Earle answered That for peril he feared none either to himself or to his house having resolved to live in obedience to his Prince and to serve God as well as he could according to his written word and for the defection alledged seeing it had pleased God to open his eyes and give him the knowledge of his truth which he took for a great argument of his favour he would not relinquish or forsake it for fear of any inconveniences As to the man he wrote of he said that he heard him teach the doctrine of Christ condemne idolatry adultery fornication and such like wickednesse and that he should make him give an accompt thereof whensoever he should be cited But to call him defamed and perjured there was no reason seeing he was not declared to be such by any sentence and if he had in former times made any unlawful oath he had done much better in violating the same then if he had observed it Further whereas he made offer to provide him of some learned man he gave him thanks considering the necessity there was of labourers in the Lords harvest but he understood what his meaning in that was and minded not to be led with any such teachers In end he wished him not to begin the battel with him whereof the event would be doubtful for as to himself he knew God was God and should be God still whatsoever mans crast could work or devise The Bishop receiving this answer did communicate the same with the chief of the Clergy who thereby conceiving that there was some businesse in hand began to think of other defences And the feast day of S. Giles or Sanctus Egidius falling out about that time to be kept at Edinburgh they entreated Queen Regent to honour the solemnity with her presence The custome was in that time of the year to carry the image of the Saint in procession through the town for they had S. Giles to their Patron with Drummes Trumpets and all sort of musical instruments neither was there any day kept more superstitiously then this The Queen agreed the rather to accompany the procession for that some cumult was feared which she thought her presence would represse But when the time of the solemnity was come the Saint was missing for some had stolne the image out of the place where it was kept This made a stay till another little image was borrowed from the Gray Friers which the vulgar in mockery called young Saint Giles Herewith they set forward the Regent accompanying the people till the procession was nigh ended then withdrawing her self to the lodging where she was to dine she was no sooner gone then some youths provided for the purpose drawing near unto the Fertor and making a shew to carry it upon their shoulders after they had walked some few paces and perceived by the motion they made the image was fixed to the Fertor they threw all to the ground and taking the image by the heels dashed the same against the stones so as head and hands were beaten off and the idol wholly defaced The people hereupon fell a crying the Priests and Churchmen betook them to flight and a great stirre was in the streets Some houres the Fray continued and being in end setled by the authority of the Magistrates the whole Clergy that were in town assembled themselves and making the best countenance they could indicted a solemn meeting in the beginning of November next To this diet Paul Methven was summoned and not appearing was decerned for his contumacie to be banished the Realme a prohibition likewise was given to all the subjects that none of them should entertain or receive
horsemen and four ships well appointed to keep the Haven of Leth trusting therewith as she said and with the assistance she promised her self in the Countrey to daunt all the rebells and bring them to obedience Meane while she began to fortifie the towne of Leth as being a Port fit to receive fresh supplies and a place that might serve the French companies for a refuge if they should happen to be redacted to any necessitie The Lords of the Congregation kept at that time a Convention in Striveling and thither came the Earle of Arrane the Duke his eldest son having left France upon this occasion Being one day in conference with the Duke of Guise who then ruled all things in the French Court and falling in speech of those that professed the reformed Religion he did utter his minde too freely in their favours which was so ill taken as it was resolved to call him in question Of this and other speeches that had escaped the Cardinall of Lorraine in the Court of Parliament he was advertised and thereupon retired quickly from Court and went to Geneva there he became acquainted with Mr. Randolph an English man who was afterwards imployed in many honourable Legations to Scotland and came with him into England where he was much graced by Queen Elizabeth and by her perswasions induced to promise that at his return he should joyn himself with those that sought to expell the French forth of Scotland and move his father so far as in him lay to take part in that cause Both which he truly performed for immediately upon his return he came to the Noblemen at Sriveling and made offer of his assistance in the common quarrell both of Religion and the liberty of the Countrey Then going to visit his Father at Hamilton he won him to their side and reconciling some old grudges betwixt his father and certain Noblemen brought them all to meet together at Hamilton and to write a common Letter to Queen Regent which was to this effect That it was to them a marvell ho she not provoked by any injury could go so soon from the late appointment as to expulse the ancient inhabitants of the town of Leth place therein a Colonie of strangers as minding to keep the Countrey under a Tyrannicall subjection This they said was against her promise against the publick weale and against the lawes and liberties of the Kingdome wherefore they intreated her to desist from that course and not to drive them into a necessity of seeking the concurrence of the Subjects for resisting the mischief intended against the whole This letter dated at Hamilton the 29. of September was subserived by the Duke of Chattellerault the Earles of Arrane Argile Glencarn and Mentieth the Lords Ruthven Boyd and Ochiltrie and divers other Barons and Gentlemen They wrote also to the Lord Ereskin keeper of the Castles of Edinburgh and Striveling Desiring him as a Nobleman and a Member with them of the same Common-wealth to look circumspectly to his own person and to the strengths committed to his trust and not to suffer himself to be abused with the promises and policies which they knew would be used Hereof they did think it needfull as they said to give him warning not that they stood in doubt of his sidelity but that they esteemed it their duty to advertise him of the common danger and to assure him if by violence any should go about to bereave him of those sorts their assistance should not be lacking Queen Regent not liking to make an answer to the Lords in writing sent Sir Robert Carnagie and Mr. David Borthuick with a letter of credit to the Duke That which they had in credit to say was that she wondred much at his joyning with the Lords or that he should have permitted the Earle of Arrane his son take that course and to advise him to come and stay with her at Court or if they could not obtain that point that they should disswade him from taking part with them The Duke asking what the Queen meant to do concerning the fortification at Leth and dispatch of the French men they said If all things were put in the Queen will she would be gracious enough Whereunto he replayed That both he and the rest of the Lords would most willingly serve her so as she would be ruled by the counsell of naturall Scottish men but so long as she kept about her strangers who were a trouble and great to the Countrey he beleeved no wise man would give either him or them advise to put themselves in her hands This answer reported to the Queen because she perceived the arriving of the French souldiers to be generally ill taken she gave forth a Proclamation Wherein complaining of the calumnies dispersed against her by wicked people especially that she had broken the appointment made with the Congregation at Leth which she said was onely to entertain division in the Realm by receiving of French forces which they aggredged so far against all reason it not being an Article of the appointment that albeit for every Frenchman that was in Scotland there were a hundreth at her command there should not a jot that was promised be broken nor the least alteration be made in any thing if the Congregation did in like manner faithfully keep their part Therefore willed all good subjects not to give eare to such informations nor suffer themselves to be led thereby from their due obedience assuring them that they should ever finde with her truth in promise and a motherly love towards all loyall subjects Besides the Proclamation she imployed in the Countrey some whom she especially trusted to inform the Subjects of her good meaning the principalls were Mr. Iames Balfoure Officiall of Lothian Mr. Thomas and Mr. William Scots sons to the Laird of Balwery Sir Robert Carnagy and some others Neither did she omit to deal with the specials of the Congregation sending Sir Iohn Bannatyne Justice Clerk to the Lord Ruthven with many liberall promises if he would leave the faction and Mr. Iohn Spence of Condy to Lord Iames with a letter bearing this effect That having understood the cause of his departing from her to be the love he bare to Religion Albeit she did mislike the same yet knowing his minde and the mindes of other Noble men to be so far bent that way as there was no possiblity to reclaim them she had now resolved to tolerate their profession and at their own sights to grant such liberty as might stand with the common policy of the Realm and their Soveraigns honour As for the men of Warre and fortification at Leth so much complained of she said that some had given her to understand that it was not the advancement of Religion which was sought but that the same was made a pretext to overthrow the authority of his sister whereof she beleeved he would never be participant and this was the
of Arrane and Lord Iames taking some companies of horse with them made towards Creichton whither Bothwel as they were advertised was gone But finding that he was escap'd they seised upon the house and gave it in keeping to Captain Forbes The same day that this happened the Provost of Dundy with his Townesmen and a few mercenary souldiers went down towards Leth carrying with them some pieces of Artillery which he planted on a hill near unto the Town The French had warning that most of the horsemen were gone about other businesse and knowing the footmen to be few made a salley upon them with some companies The Townesmen of Dundy sustained the fight for a while trusting to be seconded by the souldiers but they turned backs in the very beginning of the conflict the townesmen were forced to retire keeping still their ranks till a cry was raised that the French were entring by Leth Winde to cut them off from the Town This caused such a perturbation as every man took the way he held best for his safety and in the flight as commonly it falleth one hindering another many were overthrown some ten souldiers were killed Captain Mowak taken prisoner and Mr. Charles Geddes servant to the Master of Maxwell The flight held to the middest of the Canon gate where the Earl of Argyle and Lord Robert Abbot of Halirudhouse turned the Chase and pursuing the French made them flie as fast as they followed This little advantage of the French made Bothwel so insolent as he simply refused to restore the moneys he had taken And thus all hopes of money failing and the souldiers refusing to serve some not of the meanest sort stole away secretly the few that remained were distracted in opinions among themselves and grew doubtful what to do The fifth of November upon advertisement that the French were issued forth of Leth to intercept the provision that was carrying to Edinburgh the Earle of Arrane and Lord Iames with their domesticks went out to defend the Careers and were followed with divers of the Citizens these giving the onset upon the French with more courage then foresight advanced so farre as they were almost encompasâ—ed by the enemy and cut off from the Town For the French had divided their companies in two one part took the way directly from Leth to Halirudhouse the other marched somewhat more Eastward and nearer the Sea The Lords who were gone as farre as Restalrig beholding the French to march towards Edinburgh returned with expedition fearing the case of the Citizens and that they themselves should be cut off which in all appearance had been done if the Laird of Grange and Alexander Whitlaw with a few horsemen had not kept them in skirmish for a little time The other French companies that came by Restalrig beholding the Lords retire made after them and pursued so hotly as the Earle of Arrane and Lord Iames were forced to quit their horses for safety of the foot who were in great disorder Captain Alexander Halliberton a man of good spirit and forward in the cause of Religion staying behinde to hold off the French received divers wounds whereof the same night he died In this conflict there fell some 25. or 30. men The Master of Buchan with the Lairds of Pitmilly Fairnay and some others of smaller note were taken prisoners A little before this time William Maitland of Lethington Secretary to the Queen perceiving that he was hated of the French for the freedom he used in his counsel did secretly withdraw himself and joyned with the Lords He was earnest to have them abide together laying before them the dangers that might ensue upon their dissolving but few or none consenting conclusion was taken to leave the Town and after midnight to depart towards Striveling The day after the Lords departing the French went up to Edinburgh and took possession of the Town All that professed the Religion were compelled to flie and seek their refuge in other places Mr. Willock the Minister went unto England and immediately was the Romane service restored The Church of S. Giles as if infected with some contagion by the Sermons preached therein was of new hallowed by the Bishop of Amiens with a number of Ceremonies and such triumphing was amongst the Popish sort as they thought the game to be theirs The Queen sent advertisement to France requiring new forces with expedition to make the victory absolute Whereupon the Marquesse D'Elbeuf and Count Martiques a young Nobleman were directed with some companies both of foot and horse but they imbarking at Deep were dispersed by tempest 18. Ensignes cast away upon the coast of Holland and the rest driven back into France A while after the Marquesse putting to Sea arrived at Leth about the beginning of the spring with a thousand foot and some few horsemen The Lords at their coming to Striveling were in great heavinesse and doubtful what course to take till encouraged by a Sermon that Iohn Knox made unto them they gathered new spirits resolving to send unto England for supply and till answer should come to divide their companies The Duke and Earl of Glencarne with the Lords Boyde Ochiltry and their friends were appointed to remain at Glasgow the Earles of Arrane and Rothes Lord Iames the Master of Lindesay and their friendship to stay together in Fife and for making intelligence one to the other Mr. Henry Balnaves was ordained to attend the Noblemen at Glasgow and Iohn Knox these of Fife The Duke at his coming to Glasgow caused all the Images and Altars to be pulled down and took the Castle pertaining to the Bishop Upon the report of this the Bishop taking with him a number of French men and assisted by the Lords Semple Seaton and Rosse marched hastily thither recovered the Castle for the Lords advertised of their coming had left the Town and staying there one onely night returned to Edinburgh In Fife there was more quietnesse all things continuing peaceable till a little before Christmas at which time answer was returned from England and hopes given of support from thence William Maitland younger of Lethington and Robert Melvil brother of the Laird of Raith had been intrusted with that businesse They at their coming to the Court of England did inform the Queen of the troubles of the countrey the difficulties whereunto it was reduced and the danger that England should fall into if Scotland were once subdued by the French entreating her aid and assistance for their expulsion She remitting the matter to the Councel it was long debated whether or no any supply should be granted some maintaining that it was a thing of ill example to assist the subjects of another Prince in their Rebellion and that the same might draw upon themselves a dangerous warre Others holding that they were obliged in conscience to defend their neighbours from the oppression of strangers and that to suffer the French who
were naturally enemies to the English fortifie themselves in Scotland would prove a hurtful and preposterous course In end the Queen enclining that way it was concluded that a supply should be granted and the Duke of Norfolk sent to Berwick to treat of the conditions with the Commissioners of the Scottish Nobility The French advertised of this conclusion taken resolved to make an end of the warre before the English support could be in readinesse and to begin with the Lords residing at Fife Thereupon taking their journey to Striveling they spoyled Linlithgow in the way with the lands of Kinneil and all that they understood belonged to the Duke in those parts The like pillage they made in Striveling and passing the Bridge they kept the side of the River robbing all the villages and Coast Towns which were in their way It was their purpose to have kept the coast still till they came to S. Andrews and then to have fortified the Castle and City but the Earl of Arrane and Lord Iames hearing that they were past Striveling sent some forces under the charge of the Lord Ruthven a Nobleman of good experience and courage to withstand their attempts In his company was the Earl of Sutherland who was come to the Lords some dayes before directed as he gave out by the Earl of Huntley to make offer of his assistance howbeit his principal Commission was unto the Queen Regent as afterwards was knowne The first encounter with the French was at Pitticurre so they call the Haven on the West of Kingorne by occasion of some small vessels that were espied to come from Leth which as the Lord Ruthven did stop from landing the French that were further advanced then he supposed did charge him on the back and forced him to flie six or seven souldiers were killed in this conflict and a Dutchman called Paul Lambird with a French boy taken and hanged upon the Steeple of Kingarne The Earl of Sutherland wounded a little in the Arm with the shot of an Harquebuse returned the same day to Couper The Lords to stay the further progress of the French drew all the forces they could make in these parts to the Town of Dysert where they remained 20. dayes together keeping the French souldiers that were numbred to be 4000. in such work that the countrey was generally saved from spoile and the hurt and damage that was done falling for the greatest part upon their friends and confederates For of all that were professed enemies to the French the Laird of Grange onely had his house blown up with Gunpowder whereas the Laird of Weimes Seafield Balmaito Balwery Balgony Dury and others of the French faction were forced to furnish them with cornes cattel and what else they stood in need of or if the souldiers lacked any thing the readiest goods upon their ground were taken to provide them Hereof divers complaints being made to the French Captains the poor owners were scornfully answered that their goods were of the Congregation and if they made faith that the same were their own proper goods they were railed upon and called cowards and unworthy niggards that made more accompt of their goods then of their friends Such as professed Religion and expected the worst putting their goods out of the way or standing to their defence were in a much better condition and Grange who had his house cast down as I have said avenged himselfe sufficiently a few dayes after For knowing that the French used to send forth some souldiers into the countrey every day to bring in provision he laid an Ambush near to Kingorne and as Captain le Batu with an hundred souldiers came forth after they were passed a mile from the town he brake upon them with a number that he had selected to that purpose the Captain with his souldiers retiring to a little countrey house defended themselves a while with their shot and dangerously wounded David Kircaldy brother to the Laird of Grange and a Gentleman called Robert Hamilton who were both at first supposed to be slain The French had the advantage for they were within ditches and Le Batu having taken a little house kept the gate with some Harquebuses Grange and his company carried spears onely yet in that heat of valour which ordinarily at such occasions he shewed he rushed in upon the French and was followed by the Master of Lindesay and others whom his example did animate The Captain refusing to render himself with fifty of his company was slain the rest were all taken and sent prisoners to Dundy By this time the Lords that remained in the West parts being advertised of the answer returned from England and how the Duke of Norfolke was coming to Berwick to attend the Scottish Commissioners that should be chosen to treat of the conditions of the supply they sent of their number some to assist the Noblemen of Fife in making that choice The meeting was at Couper where by common consent choice was made of Lord Iames the Lord Ruthven the Masters of Maxwel and Lindesay the Laird Lethington younger and Laird of Pittarrow and Mr. Henry Balnaves and power given them by the Duke and remnant Lords to contract and agree with the Queen of England and her Lieutenant upon all such things as might serve for the good and conjunction of the two Kingdomes and particularly for expelling the French souldiers out of the Realm of Scotland These taking journey by Sea came about the middest of February to Berwick and after some short treaty a contract was formed betwixt Thomas Duke of Norfolk Earl Marshall of England and Lieutenant to the Queens Majesty in the North in name and behalf of her Highness on the one part and Lord Iames Stewart Patrick Lord Ruthven Sir Iohn Maxwel of Tareglife Knight William Maitland of Lethington younger Iohn Wishart of Pittarrow and Mr. Henry Balnaves of Halhil in name and behalfe of the noble and mighty Prince Iames Duke of Chattellerault second person of the Realm of Scotland and the remnant Lords joyned with him for maintenance and defence of the ancient Rights and liberties of the countrey on the other part to the effect following 1. That the Queens Majesty having sufficiently understood as well by information from the Nobility of Scotland as by the proceedings of the French that they did intend to conquer the Realm of Scotland suppress the Nobility thereof and unite the same to the Crown of France perpetually contrary to the Lawes of the same Realm and the pactions oathes and promises of France and being most humbly and earnestly requested by the said Nobility for and in the name of the whole Realm to receive the Kingdom of Scotland the Duke of Chattellerault declared heir to the Crown thereof with the Nobility and other subjects into her protection and maintenance only for preservation of the Scots in their own freedomes and liberties during the time that the marriage did continue
betwixt the Queen of Scots and the French King and a year after should employ her best means for and in their defence 2. That her Majesty should send with all convenient diligence into Scotland a sufficient aid of men of warre horse and foot with artillery munition and other instruments of warre as well by sea as by land to joyn with the forces of Scotland for the expelling the French forces presently within that Realm and stopping so farre as may be all others to enter therein in time coming 3. That her Majesty should continue her aid to the Nobility and subjects of Scotland untill such time as the French enemies to the said Realm should be utterly expelled thence and should transact agree nor conclude any league with the French except the Scots and French should be also agreed and the Realm of Scotland left in freedom neither should she leave the maintenance of the said Nobility and other subjects whereby they might fall as a prey into their enemies hands so long as they did acknowledge their Soveraign Lady and Queen and should endevour themselves to maintain their own liberty and the estate of the Crown of Scotland 4. If in case any Forts or Strengths within the Realm shall be recovered out of the hands of the French by her Majesties aid the same shoudl be immediately demolished or delivered to the Duke of Chattellerault and his partakers at their election neither should the power of England fortifie within the ground of Scotland but by the advice of the said Duke Nobility and Estates of Scotland 5. That the said Duke and Nobility as well such as be already joyned as such as hereafter shall joyn with him for defence of the liberty of the Realm should to the uttermost of their power aid and support her Majesties Army against the French and their assisters with horse and foot and all manner of other aid they possibly can make and shall provide victuals to the Army by land and sea and continue so doing during the time her Majesties Army shall remain in Scotland 6. That they should be enemies to all such Scottish men and French as shall in any wayes shew themselves enemies to the Realm of England for the aiding and supporting of the said Duke and Nobility and should never assent nor permit the Realm of Scotland to be conquered or otherwise united to the Crown of France then it is at the present only by the marriage of the Queen their Soveraing to the French King and as the Lawes and liberties of the Realm do allow 7. That if it should happen the French men at any time thereafter to invade or cause the Realm of England to be invaded they should furnish the number of 1000 horsemen and 2000. footmen at the least or such part of either of them as should be required at the charge of the Queen of England and should conduct the same to any part of the Realm of England that should be appointed upon the charges alwayes of the Queen of England And in case the invasion should be made on the North part of England either upon the North of the water of Tyne towards Scotland or against Berwick on the North side of the water of Twede they should convene and gather their whole forces upon their own charges and should joyn with the English power and continue in an earnest pursuit of the quarrel of England during the space of 30. dayes or so much longer as they are accustomed to abide in the fields for defence of Scotland 8. That the Earl of Argyle Lord Justice of Scotland being presently joyned with the said Duke should employ his force and good will when he should be required by the Queen of England for reducing the North parts of Ireland to her obedience conform to a mutual contract which should be made betwixt her Majesties Deputy of Ireland for the time and the said Earl wherein should be expressed what each of them should do for support of others in case either of them had businesse with Macc-o-neale or any other of the Isles of Scotland or Realm of Ireland 9. That the Scots for performance and sure keeping of their part of this contract should deliver such pledges to the Duke of Norfolk before the entrie of her Majesties Army in Scottish ground as the said Duke did presently name who should remain in England for the space of six moneths and be exchanged by deliverance of new hostages for six moneths to six moneths or four moneths to four moneths at the pleasure of Scotland the pledges alwayes being of the like or as good condition as the former and the lawful sonnes brethren or heirs of some of the Earls or Barons of the Parliament and the time of the continuance of the said hostages should be during the marriage of the Queen of Scots to the French King and a year after the dissolution of the same till further order may be had betwixt both the Realms for peace and concord 10. That the Duke and Nobility joyned with him being Earles and Barons of Parliament should subscrive and â—eale these Articles within the space of twenty or thirty dayes at the furthest after the delivering of the said hostages and should procure and perswade all others of the Nobility that should joyn themselves thereafter with the said Duke for the cause above specified to subscrive and seal the same Articles within the space of twenty dayes after their conjunction upon requisition made by them of England 11. That the said Duke and Nobility joyned with him certainly understanding that the Queens Majesty of England was moved to grant the present support only upon respect of Princely honour and neighbourhood for defence of the freedom of Scotland from conquest and not of any sinister intent did by these presents testifie and declare that neither they nor any of them do mean by this contract to withdraw their due obedience from their Soveraign Lady the Queen or yet to withstand the French King her husband in any lawful thing which tendeth not to the subversion of the just and ancient liberties of Scotland for the preservation whereof they acknowledge themselves bound to spend their goods lands and lives This contract of the date at Berwick the 27. of February 1559. was confirmed by the Queen of England and a Patent thereof delivered under the great Seal of England to the Duke and Nobility the Lords of Scotland did in like manner ratifie the same by their subscriptions at the Camp before Leth the tenth of May following How soon the French heard that the Lords were removed from Dysert they marched forward according to their first purpose towards S. Andrews and kept the Coast partly because of the ships which carried their victuals partly by reason of a great snow which then was fallen and made the nearest wayes unpassable After that they had crossed the water of Leven and were come unto Kincraige they espied a fleet of ships bearing up
the Firth which they did apprehend to be a supply sent unto them but when they saw them fall upon the ships that carried their victuals they became doubtful and shortly after were assured by a boat which had spoken them that it was an English Navy sent to the support of the Congregation and that a land Army was also prepared to come into Scotland These newes troubled them not a little and made them doubtful what course to take for to return by Striveling was a long way and to transport the souldiers to the other coast there were no vessels so as they feared to be kept from joyning with their fellows at Leth. Their resolution therefore was to make the longer journeys as they did and setting to the way the same night they came on the third day to Leth having lost divers of their company by the way Fife thus delivered from their oppressions publick thanks were given to God in the Church of S. Andrews This done the Lords took purpose to besiege the houses of Weimes Seafield Bagome and Dury which were taken without resistance and the Lords thereof made prisoners but shortly after they were dimitted and the houses restored upon condition not to assist the French any more The Earl of Huntley at the same time being advertised that the Barons of Mernis were come to Aberdene to make reformation in that City hastened thither to withstand their proceedings and by his coming saved the Cathedral Church the houses of the Dominicans Carmelites and other Religions being already demolished and cast down Yet when he heard that the English forces were advancing he sent to the Lords and made offer to joyn with them A meeting to this effect was appointed at Perth whither he came and staying some three dayes departed homewards upon promise to return unto the Army in the beginning of April for Proclamatinos were gone through the countrey charging all the subjects to meet in Armes at Linlithgow the last of March and from thence to passe forwards in pursuit of the French that had fortified at Leth. For fulfilling the Article whereby the Lords were tied to send pledges unto England Colin Campbel Cousen to the Earl of Argyle Robert Douglas brother to the Laird of Lochleven and ... Ruthven son to the Lord Ruthven were delivered to the Englâ—sh Admiral and by sea conveyed to the Town of Newcastle After which the English forces consisting of 2000. horse and six thousand foot entered into Scotland conducted by the Lord Gray under whom commanded the Lord Scroop Sir Iames Crofts Sir Henry Percie and Sir Francis Lake The Scottish Army joyned with them at Preston the fourth of April whereof the principal leaders were the Duke of Chattellerault the Earles of Argyle Glencarn and Menteith Lord Iames. the Lords Ruthven Boyd and Ochiltrie who were assisted by all the Barons and Gentlemen professing Religion in Lothian Fife Angus Mernis and the West countries The same day the Queen Regent removed her family to the Castle of Edinburgh and was received by the Lord Aresken a Nobleman of approved honesty and wisdom he was not ignorant of the Queens intentions and the desire she had to have the French Masters of that strength yet he would not at that time deny her entrie but used such circumspection as she and the house both were still in his power The Noblemen resolving to fall presently to work did yet think to move the Queen of new for dismissing the French companies and to that effect they directed a letter of this tenor Madame We have often before this time by letters and messages been instant with you to remove the French souldiers out of the Realm who now the space of a year and more have oppressed the poor people with evils intolerable and threaten to bring this Kingdom under a miserable servitude But seeing we could not prevaile by our lawful requests we were forced to mean our estate to the Queen of England our nearest neighbour and intreat her support for expulsing these strangers by Armes if otherwise we cannot obtain it And now albeit she pitying our distresses hath taken us and our cause in her protection yet for the duty we owe unto you as the Mother of our Queen and the desire we have to eschew the shedding of Christian blood we have advised once again to intreat the dismission of these French men with their Captains and Commanders for whose commodious transport the Queen of England will be pleased to lend her Navy and give to others of them a safe passage by land If this condition shall be rejected we take God and men to record that it is not malice nor hatred which moveth us to take Armes but that we are driven by necessity to use extreme remedies for preserving the commonwealth and saving our selves our estates and posterities from utter ruine neither shall we for any peril that can happen howsoever we suffer many wrongs and indignities and are daily in expectation of worse forsake that dutiful obedience which we owe to our Queen or yet resist the King her husband in any thing that shall not tend to the subversion of the ancient liberties of this Kingdome Therefore most gracious Queen we beseech you again and again to weigh the equity of our Petition the inconveniences of warre and to consider how needful it is that thus your daughters afflicted Kingdom should be put to some rest and quietnesse If so you do you shall give to all nations a testimony of your moderation and procure the peace of the greatest part of Christendome This letter dated at Dalkeith the fifth of April was subscrived by all the Noblemen that were present The English General did in like manner direct Sir George Howard and Sir Iames Crofâ—s to make offer that if the French would peacably depart forth of Scotland they likewise should return into their countrey without molesting any person Her answer was that she would think of what was propounded and give answer the next day But the Army not liking to admit these delayes advanced the next day which was Saterday towards Leth keeping along the sea coast till they came to Restalrig The French issuing forth of Leth to the number of 1300. or thereby and planting themselves upon a little hill called the Hawkhill where they knew the English Army would encamp for the space of five houres continued in fight the one striving to make good the place the other to carry it At last the Scottish horsemen did charge the French with suh a fury that they not able to maintain it any longer took the flight and retired to the Town from which they had been quite cut off if the English horse had seconded the Scots as was appointed In this conflict three hundred of the French were killed and some few of the English Then begun the Army of England to place their Pavilions betwixt the Town of Leth and Restalrig
The Lord Gray lodging in the Deans house in Restalrig and the most part of his horsemen in the same village the foot lay all in the tents upon the South and South-east side of Leth and near unto them were the Scots Noblemen encamped trenches cast and a little mount erected which was called Mount Pellain from the name of the Captain whereupon eight Canons were placed to play upon S. Antonies Steeple on which the French had planted some Ordinance These thundering night and day battered the steeple and forced the French to dismount their artillery The English after this growing negligent and supposing the French would make no more fallies followed their sports some of the Captains going to Edinburgh and the souldiers falling to play at Dice and Cards as though there had been no enemies to fear wherefore the French getting intelligence they issued forth and entring the English trenches before they were perceived put many to the sword The slaughter was great and esteemed to exceed the losse of the French in the first encounter This accident taught them to be more watchful all the time that the siege continued and because their numbers were so few for besieging the Town in all parts they devised to raise certain mounts in every quarter and to remove the Canon to the West side of the water of Leth. more near the walls then before The last of April a sudden fire kindling within the Town burned all that night which destroyed many houses and consumed a great part of the souldiers provision During this burning the English playing continually with the Canon upon the places where they saw the flames rising to stop the quenching of the fire and entring the ditches did in the mean time measure the height of the walls to provide ladders for the scaling which they intended The seventh of May having resolved to give an assault they brought the ladders a little before day towards the walls but they proved too short and so that purpose failed The English lost 160. at this enterprise such as were affected to the French did hereupon take courage trusting the siege would rise and the English Army depart but the accident did no way dismay either the English or Scots every man animating another to constancie and continuance and about the time came letters from the Duke of Norfolk which greatly confirmed their mindes Thereby he charged them not to break up the siege by any means assuring they should not lack men so long as any could be had between Twede and Trent for in those bounds he commanded as Lieutenant and giving hopes to come in person to the Camp he caused his Pavilion to be set up and sent thither his officers and provision Shortly after a fresh supply came from England of 2000. men which made all former losses to be forgotten The French for some dayes made divers fallies but were ever put to the worst for all the hurt which fell either to Scottish or English from that time untill the rendring of the Town was only the losse of two men Robert Colvil of Cleish Master houshold to Lord Iames a Gentleman much commended both for wisdom and valour he was wounded in the thigh by the shot of a great piece from the town and died of it within two houres and Alexander Lochart brother to the Laird of Barre who lying too open in the trenches was discovered by the enemy and shot in the head The French King hearing in what distresse the companies at Leth were and by reason of other affaires not able to supply them in time sent Count Randon and Monsieur Monluâ—k Bishop of Valence Ambassadours to the Queen of England desiring her to retire her Army out of Scotland with offers to restore the town of Callais if she would call them back her answer was that she did not value that fisher Town so much as to hazard for it the state of Britain The French perceiving that peace could not otherwise be made but by calling back the French souldiers and thinking it dishonorable for the King and Queen of France to treat with their own subjects they intreated the Queen of England to send her Ambassadours to mediate an agreement which was easily assented unto and Mr. William Cecill principal Secretary of England with Doctor wotton Dean of Canterbury and York appointed to go with the French Ambassadours into Scotland and use their best means for pacifying the present troubles Whilest they were in their journey Queen Regent partly out of sicknesse and partly of displeasure died in the Castle of Edinburgh the tenth of Iune 1560. Before her death she desired to speak with the Duke of Chattellerault the Earls of Argyle Glencarn Marshall and Lord Iames to whom she expressed her grief for the troubles of the Realm commending earnestly the study of peace unto them advising them to send both French and English forth of the countrey and beseeching them to continue in the obedience of the Queen their Soveraign and to entertain the old amity with the King and Realm of France After some speeches to this purpose bursting forth in tears she asked pardon of then all whom any way she had offended professing that she did forgive those who had injured her in any sort and imbracing all the Nobles one by one kissing them she took her farewell To others of meaner sort that stood by she gave her hand and so they departed Afterwards disposing her self for another world she sent for Iohn Willock the Preacher who was then returned from England and conferring with him a reasonable space openy professed that she did trust to be saved only by the death and merits of Iesus Christ and thus ended her life most Christianly She was a Lady of honest and honourable conditions of singular judgement and full of humanity a great lover of justice helpful to the poor especially to those that she knew to be indigent but for shame could not beg Compassionate of women in travel whom she did often visit in her own person and help both with her skill and counsel In her Court she kept a wonderful gravity tolerating no licenciousnesse her maids were alwayes busied in some virtuous exercise and to them she was an ensample every way of modesty chastity and the best vertues A great dexterity she had in government which appeared in the composing the tumults in the North and in pacifying the Isles which by her wisdome were reduced to perfect obedience â—s to those warres which afficted the Kingdome in her last dayes it is not to be doubted but the same happened much against her will neither had they fallen out at all if affaires had been carried according to her mind But she was to govern by direction and in all matters of weight must needs attend responses from the French Court which were the Oracles whereby all affairs at those times were framed This made her in matters of Religion more
severe then of her own nature she was and led her into many errours of State neglecting the Natives and born Noblemen of the countrey and following the counsels of the French that attended her who making no conscience of their promises and minding nothing but the bringing of Scotland in subjection to France as they conceived things to serve unto their ends moved her to follow courses unsure and dishonourable Otherwise she was of a most milde disposition and was heard often to say That if her own counsel might take place she doubted nothing to compose all the dissensions within the Realm and settle the same upon good conditions in a perfect tranquillity The Author of the story ascrived to Iohn Knox in his whole discourse sheweth a bitter and hateful spite against her forging dishonest things which was never so much as suspected by any setting down his own conjectures as certain truths and misinterpreting all her words and actions yea the least syllable that did escape her in passion he maketh in an argument of her cruel and inhumane disposition but when he cometh to speak of her end he will have all her sickness and death though in none of the two there was any thing extraordinary to be the judgement of God inflicted upon her as if death and the ordinary visitations which bring death were not common to Princes as well as others Then for her burial because by direction of her friends and as some say at her own desire order was taken to carry her corps to the Abbey of Rhemes in Campaigne where her sister was Abbesse which of all necessity required a protraction of time he construed the delay to be the punishment of her inhumanity and the want of sepulchre in this Kingdom a prognostick of the short continuance of her race and the Guisian blood as he speaks in this Realm Pardon me good Reader for this digression To detract from the same of Princes and miscensure their words and actions favoureth of malice and no way becometh a Christian much lesse a Minister of Christ. Shortly after the death of Queen Regent truce was taken for hearing the Ambassadours sent from France and England who coming to Edinburgh entred into consultation first amongst themselves upon the best and easiest means to compose the present quarrels Then calling to them certain of the Scottish Nobility began to treat of the sending of the French souldiers forth of the Realm Wherein two difficulties occurred One was that the Commissioners of France did urge the retaining of a number of men of war in some sorts of the countrey for the King and Queen after peace was concluded The other that the companies that should be broken might depart unchallenged with all their baggage The Scottish Noblemen did oppose these desires esteeming it unreasonable that they should be suffered to depart before they gave satisfaction to those they had wronged And to place strangers in forts they thought it could not but breed trouble and occasion a new warre more dangerous then the present This contention held some dayes at last both parties wearying they were brought to agree upon the conditions following 1. That the French men of warre in the town of Leth should be sent home within the space of twenty dayes with bag and baggage and for their better transport should be furnished with ships of England they giving pledges for the safe return of the same 2. That Leth being rendered to the Lords of Scotland the walls thereof should be demolished as likewise the fortifications at Dumbar if so it should seem good to the Lords after they had viewed the same and that the King and Queen should make no new forts within the Realm nor augment these that were already made nor yet repair these that were demolished without counsel and consent of the Estates 3. That a Garison of threescore French men should be permitted to remain in the Castle of Dumbar and as many in the Isle of Inchkeeth untill the Estates should find means to maintain the said forts upon their own charges from all peril of forain invasion the said souldiers in the mean time living obedient to the lawes of the Realm and taking nothing from the subjects without paiment of ready money 4. That an Act of oblivion should be made for abolishing the memory of all injuries and wrongs attempted or committed against the lawes of the Realm since the sixth day of March 1558. untill the first of August 1560. which Act should be ratified in the next Parliament and confirmed by the Queen with consent of her husband 5. That a general peace and reconciliation should be made amongst the Lords and subjects of the Realm so as they who were called of the Congregation and they who were not of the same should bear no quarrel to others for any thing done since the sixth of March 1558. 6. That the King and Queen should not pursue revenge or suffer to be revenged any violence or injury that had been done since the said time nor should deprive or seek any colour to dispossess the subjects or any of them of the benefices houses and estates which they have enjoyed before they alwayes continuing in the due obedience of their Soveraigns And that it might be known that the King and Queen were not willing to keep any remembrance of the troubles past it was accorded the Duke of Chattellerault and all other Noblemen of Scotland should be repossessed in their livings and benefices within France after the manner that they did enjoy the same before the said sixth day of March and that all capitulations agreed upon in time past should be observed as well for the part of their Majesties as the part of the Nobility and people of Scotland 7. That where any Bishops Abbots or other Churchmen should alledge themselves to have received any injuries either in their persons or goods the same should be considered by the Estates of Parliament and redresse made according to reason and in the mean time that no man should stop them to enjoy their rents nor do any hurt or violence to their persons and if any should do contrary to this Article he should be pursued by the Lords as a perturber of the Commonwealth 8. That in time coming the King and Queen should depute no strangers in the administration of Civil and Common Justice nor bestow the offices of Chancellary Thesaurer Comptrollary and the like upon others then born subjects of the Realm as likewise that it should not be lawful to give the office of Thesaurary or Comptrollary to any Churchman or other person that is not able to administrate the same Further that the Thesaurer and Comptroller appointed by them and instructed with sufficient commission should do nothing in disposing of casualties without the consent of the Councel to the effect all things may be done for the profit of the King and Queen yet should it not be thought that this Article did either
bind the King or Queen but that they may give where and when they should think expedient 9. That the Estates of the Realm should convene and hold a Parliament in the moneth of August next for which a Commission should be sent from the French King and the Queen of Scotland and that the said convention should be as lawful in all respects as if the same had been ordained by the express Commandment of their Majesties providing all tumults of warre be discharged and they who ought by their places to be present may come without fear 10. That for the better government of this Realm choice should be made of a Councel which should consist of twelve worthy men of the Kingdom of which number the Queen should chuse seven and the Estates five which twelve in their Majesties absence should take order with the affaires of Government and without their authority and consent nothing should be done in the administration of publick businesse And that the said Councel should convene as oft as they might conveniently but no fewer then six together or if any matter of importance occurred they should all be called or the most part of them providing it should not be prejudicial to the King and Queen and to the Rights of the Crown 11. That the King and Queen should neither make peace nor warre in these parts but by the counsel and advise of the Estates according to the custome of the countrey as it was observed by their predecessors 12. That none of the Lords of the Nobility of Scotland should make convocation of men of warre except in ordinary cases approved by the lawes and custome of the Realm nor should any of them cause men of warre strangers to come into these parts much lesse attempt to do any thing against the King and Queen or against the authority of the Councel and other Magistrates of the Realm and in case any of them had occasion to take Armes the same being first communicated to the Councel their Majesties likewise should be made acquainted therewith and nothing to be done by them that ought not to be done by good and faithful subjects that love the quietnesse of the Realm and will abide in the obedience of their Soveraigns 13. That Lord David son to the Duke of Chattellerault detained prisoner at Bois de Vincennes should be put to liberty and suffered to return into Scotland at his pleasure 14. That with the French men no Artillery should be transported forth of the Realm but those which were sent and brought in since the decease of Francis the first and that all other Artillery and Munition especially that which hath the Armes of Scotland should be put into the places out of which they were taken 15. That the Army of England should return home immediately after the embarking of the French and that all the Scottish men of warre should be broken and licenced to depart 16. That for the Articles concerning Religion presented for the part of the Nobility and people of Scotland which the Commissioners would not touch but referred to their Majesties it was promised that a certain number of Noblemen should be chosen in the next Convention and Parliament to be sent to their Majesties to expone unto them the things that should be thought needful for the estate thereof and for the Articles presently decided they should carry with them the ratification of the same by the Estates and return a confirmation thereof from their Majesties Lastly that the Queen of Scotland and King of France should not hereafter usurp the titles of England and Ireland and should delete the Arms of England and Ireland out of their scutchions and whole housholdstuffe This accord made the French prepared to depart and for returning the ships of England that were lent to transport them the Bishop of Amiens and Monsieur le Broche remained hostages On the sixteenth day of Iuly the French embarked and the same day did the English Army depart towards Berwick the third day after their parting a solemn thanksgiving was kept in the Church of S. Giles by the Lords and others professing true Religion and then were the Ministers by common advice distributed among the Burghs Iohn Knox was appointed to serve at Edinburgh Christopher Goodman at S. Andrews Adam Heriote at Aberdene Iohn Row at Perth William Christeson at Dundy David Ferguson at Dunfermlin Paul Methven at Iedburgh and Mr. David Lindesay at Leth besides these they did nominate for the direction of Church affaires some to be Superintendents as Mr. Iohn Spotswood for Lothian and Mers Mr. Iohn Winram for Fife and Iohn Areskin of Dun for Angus and Mernis Mr. Iohn Willock for Glasgow and Mr. Iohn Kerswel for Argyle and Isles with this small number was the plantation of the Church at first undertaken The time appointed for the Parliament approaching warning was made to all such as by law or ancient custome had any voice therein to be present and at the day the meeting was frequent In the beginning there was great altercation divers holding that no Parliament could be kept seeing their Soveraigns had sent no Commission nor authorized any to represent their persons Others alledging that Article of the peace whereby it was agreed That a Parliament should be kept in the moneth of August and that the same should be as lawful in all respects as if it were ordained by the expresse commandments of their Majesties maintained that the said Article was a warrant sufficient for their present meeting and this opinion by voices prevailed So after some eight dayes spent in these contentions they began to treat of affairs but as they had no commission so the solemnities accustomed of Crown Scepter and Sword which are in use to be carried at these times were neglected There were present of the spiritual Estate the Archbishop of S. Andrews the Bishops of Dunkeld Dumblane Galloway Argyle and Isles The Prior of S. Andrews the Abbots of Couper Landors Culross S. Colmes Inch Newbottle Halirudhouse Kinlose Deire and New-Abbey with the Priors of Coningham and S. Mary Isle Of the Nobility the Lord Duke the Earls of Arrane Argyle Marshal Cassils Cathnes Athol Glencarne Merton and Rothes The Lords Ruthven Glammis Areskin Boyd Ochiltrie Carlile Levingston Ogilvy and Somervil with many of the inferiour Barons and of the Commissioners of Burghs none were absent In electing the Lords of the Articles the Noblemen that had the nomination of the Clergy passing by such amongst them as they knew to be Popishly affected made choice of the Bishops of Galloway and Argyle the Prior of S. Andrews the Abbots of Abberbrothock Kilwining Lundors Newbottle and Culross at which the Prelates stormed mightily alledging that some of them were meer Laicks and all of them Apostates for they had openly renounced popery and joyned themselves with the Professors of the truth but there was no remedy the course was changed and now it behoved them to take law
the Church could never be induced to part therewith and turned greater enemies in that point of Church Patrimony then were the Papists or any other whatsoever THE HISTORY of the CHURCH OF SCOTLAND THE FOURTH BOOK The Contents The things that fell out after Queen Mary her coming from France into this Kingdome unto her resignation of the Crown to King Iames her son THe Queen preparing to return home was taken with the Feaver tertian and forced to stay at Ianville some moneths In the end of Iune she came to Paris where Francis Earl of Bedford who was sent from England to condole King Francis his death did in the name of his Mistress salute her and after some gratulatory speeches for her recovery propone the ratification of the contract made at Leth entreating the performance of it The Queen thanking her sister for her kindness answered That she was not as yet in perfect health but hoped shortly to be well Touching the ratification she said that she remembred the business but could give no resolute answer till she had the advice of the Nobles and estates of her own Realm For though the matter concerned her principally yet the same did touch them also and they having shewed themselves displeased in former times because she did not take their advice in affairs would now be much more offended if she should proceed in that matter not having first acquainted them therewith But as she trusted the same should not be long a doing seeing she intended to make her voyage shortly home The Ambassadour replying that there was no cause to doubt of their consents in that particular the accord being made by themselves It was made said the Queen by some of them not by all and when I come amongst them it will appear what minde they are of But I will send Monsieur d' Oysell to my sister who shall give her I trust good satisfaction and by him I will signifie that I am to go into Scotland and will require those favours of her that Princes do one to another in the like cases Soon after this she sent Monsieur d'Oysell into England with a direction that after he had done this message unto the Queen he should go into Scotland and take order that the Garrisons kept in the Castle of Dunbar and the Isle of Inchkeith should keep those Forts untill she were safely arrived But the Queen of England taking ill the delay of the ratification answered him in the hearing of all the attendants That except the Queen of Scots did confirm the conditions agreed upon at Leth wherein she found her self still frustrated there could be no perfect amity amongst them and if she would do that the kindness which became a Queen her cousen and neighbour should not be wanting on her part This she desired him to report and leave his journey unto Scotland for that she would not permit the same through her Countrey The Queen of Scots highly offended with this answer did call Nicholas Throgmorton the Ambassador Legier of England and kept a long conference with him about these matters which out of the Ambassadors own letters sent to the Queen his Mistress I shall relate Commanding her attendants to go aside she brake forth in these speeches How great soever my weakness be I like not to have so many witnesses of it as your Queen of late had when she talked with Monsieur d'Oysell And now I must tell you that nothing grieves me more then that I should have desired a thing of her that I stood in no great need of having Gods favour I can return to my Countrey without her leave as I came hither against the will of King Edward her brother Neither do I lack friends that both will and may convey me safefy thither yet I desire rather to try her friendship then any others Oftentimes you have said that it were good both for our selves and for our Kingdomes that we should live friends and keep kindness one to another but it seemeth not that she is so minded otherwise she would never have returned me such an answer It is like she favoureth my rebellious subjects more then me yet she should with reason think that my subjects who have rebelled against me will never be so trusty and loving to her as I my self My friends do marvell what her purpose could be in assisting my Subjects against me and now to hinder my return unto my own Countrey being a widow I know not what it should mean I work her no trouble I have no medling with the affairs of England and yet I know there be numbers in that Countrey who are not well contented with the present times I require nothing of her but amity and friendship and this I cannot have She objects to me that I have small experience of the world It is true that years bring experience yet I am of that age that I know how to carry my self towards my friends and well-willers I will not use many speeches unworthy of her but let me with her good leave say that I am a Queen as she is that I have as good friends and as good a stomach as her self But comparisons they say are odious therefore I will contain my self For that treaty at Leth wherewith she so troubleth her self it was made whilest the King my husband was alive to whom according to my duty I was in all things obsequent That he delayed to ratifie the accord it was his fault not mine After his decease the Councell of France left me to my own Counsellors neither would my uncle meddle in Scottish affâ—irs lest they should offend The Scots that are here with me are not Counsellors neither can I deliberate with them in weighty matters assoon as I have consulted with the Estates of my Kingdom I shall give her a reasonable answer and that she may have it the sooner I shall haste my journey homewards But she perhaps will belay my way and so impede her own satisfaction and it may be she desireth no satisfaction of her demands that there may be alwayes some occasion of jarring and discord amongst us She casteth often in my teeth that I am young and unadvised and so she might justly think me if I should treat of matters of such importance but as now I will not reason that point This I may truly say that I never did any thing to my sister which I would not have done to my self I have alwayes performed the duty of a kinswoman unto her but she doth either not believe it or then despiseth my friendship Would to God I were as dear to her as I am near of bloud for this were a precious sort of kindred but God forgive them if there be any that stirreth up these contentions amongst us You are her Ambassadour let me know what is it offendeth her or in what word or action I have wronged her Hereunto Throgmorton answered Madam
I have no Commission to your Majesty but for the ratification of the treaty at Leth yet if you will have me to shew what I think be the cause of my Mistresse offence I will tell it in few words but not as an Ambassadour How soon the Queen my Mistress was crowned you usurped the Title and Arms of England which during Queen Maries reign you never attempted and a greater injury could not be offered to a Prince then that was But saith she My father in law and husband who lived both at that time commanded me so to do after they were deceased and since I have been at mine own liberty I have neither used her Armes nor Titles And yet I see not what wrong it can be to me who am a Queen and had to my grandmother the eldest sister of King Henry the eight to use the Armes of England seeing others more remote in blood have done the like The Marquess of Exeter and Dutchess of Suffolk Neece unto Henry the eight by his youngest sister did bear the Armes of England with borders for a difference and should it be imputed as an injury to me so to do But well I see so she concluded that nothing I do is taken in good part The Quen of England in the mean time falling in some jealousie of the Lords of Scotland because of that which the Queen had said that the treaty at Leth was not made by all their consents and that when she should be amongst them it would appear whether they continued in the same mind sent a letter full sharpnes of to the Nobility and Councel wherein after an ample declaration of the friendship done to them in the late aid they received against the French she complained of the delayes made in the ratification of the accord past at Leth which as it seemed by their Queens words was in their default seeing she had said that before she gave a resolute answer in that matter it behoved her to know their mindes whereof she could not be ignorant so many of themselves being with her of late and messengers going daily betwixt them therefore she desired to know if they did minde to keep the peace contracted and if they continued in that mind that they should procure the Queen to ratifie it at least to advertise her what she might look for at their own hands This letter was speedily answered by the Councel with great attestations that it came never in their mindes to break the peace contracted for in so doing they should make themselves infamous in the world and sin highly against their consciences Of the delay which their Queen made and the reasons thereof they professed to be ignorant Therefore intreated her Majesty to be perswaded of them that next to the glory of God they would study to keep the peace inviolate and that there should be no blame in them if the ratification was not made to her contentment Whilest these things passed at home the Queen of Scots set forward to Callais attended by the Cardinals of Loraine and Guise the Dukes of Guise and d'Aumarll the grand Prior and the Marquess d' Elbeuf her Uncles the Duke of Nemours Monsieur d' Anvile the Constables son and divers others her friends and kinsmen At Abbavile which is in the way to Callais she sent for the English Ambassadour and asked him by what means she might satisfie Queen Elizabeth He answered by ratifying the Treaty of Leth. To whom she replied I have very just reasons to refuse it which ought not to be interpreted as delayes For first that treaty should have been confirmed by my husband and me and cannot now be ratified unlesse it be concluded in my own name alone seeing the King then my husband is expressely named in the accord Next the most of the Articles are performed for all preparations of warre are ceased and the French called back from Scotland But the Queen offendeth said she that I use the title and arms of England This I have not done since my husbands death And if it be alledged that the same is used in Letters Patents given me through France it is known I cannot hinder that for they who pass those letters are not my subjects And for the Articles concâ—rning Religion I trust my own subjects shall have no cause to complain of my severity Thus what I may do I will to give my sister satisfaction And I pray you Monsieur l' Embassadeur do the part of an Ambassadour and rather pacify the Queen then exasperate her in any sort So earnest she was to have all matters of quarrel laid aside fearing that the Queen of England should seek to intercept her by the way and indeed a Navy was put to Sea under colour of suppressing Pirats but the taking of one of the ships wherein were the Earl of Eglinton and other passengers made it suspected that a worse thing was meant Alwayes it fell out so that the Queen of Scots having a prosperous wind passed by the English ships the weather being foggy unperceived and after the sixt day after her embarking which was the 20. of August 1561. did safely arrive at Leth. The fame of the Queens coming noised abroad the Nobility from all the parts of the Realm assembled to congratulate her return and besides them numbers of all sorts of people convened as unto a joyful spectacle for they had not seen the face of their Soveraign for many years and after her marriage with the French King had scarce any hope of a King to reside amongst them which would most certainly have happened if any succession had followed of that marriage For Scotland in that case would have been but an accession to France the mightier Kingdome as Henry the seventh foretold of England and we have seen it verified in our days drawing unto it the weaker and lesser Crown That the Queen therefore was now returned and they delivered of the fears of redacting the Kingdom into a Province they did justly esteem it one of the greatest benefits that could happen unto them Then when they called to mind the variablenesse of fortune how she left a pupill of six dayes old only by the death of the Father was exposed as a prey to those that were most mighty and partly by civil seditions at home partly by the invasions of external enemies from abroad even before she could have any sense oftrouble was forced to forsake her countrey and relegated as it were into exile having hardly escaped the hands of enemies that lay in wait to intercept her and the violence of tempestuous and raging seas And again when fortune began to smile a little upon her and she was honoured with a royal Marriage how these joyes on the suddain came to be changed into extreme sorrows being first deprived of her mother then of her husband a new Kingdome lost and her ancient crown which belonged to her by inheritance standing in a
right and reason surely I my self would never think my estate assured if once my successor were known to the world This is the summe of that which passed at this second audience Not many days after getting accesse he askt the Queen what answer she would give to the Nobility she said At this time I have no answer to give but that I approve the affection and sedulous care they have of their Soveraigns good estate but the matter is of such weight as I cannot on a suddain or directly answer it When your Queen shall perform her promise concerning the treaty of Leth it will be time to require a proof of my affection towards her till then I cannot with safety of mine honour gratify her in any thing Lethington replied as before that he had no Commission in that businesse and that in the matter of succession he had shewed more his own judgement then the mind of the Queen his Mistresse for he could never think the confirmation of the treaty of Leth to be a thing of that importance as for the delay or refusal of that the Queen of Scots and her posterity should be excluded from the succession of the Crown of England Neither will I now saith he enquire by whom that treaty was concluded at what time in what manner by what authority and for what cause it was done for I have no warrant to speak of these things but this I dare affirm that albeit the Queen following her husbands direction had ratified the treaty she should have found her self thereby so farre interessed as she would doubtless used all means to free her self of the same And this I say not in the Queens name but only to make it seem that our Noblemen have reason to travel that all debates and controversies may cease and a firm and perpetual peace may be established This and some other speeches interchanged amongst them touching the treaty moved the Queen of England to agree that the same should be revised by some Commissioners and corrected after this form That the Queen of Scots should thenceforth abstain from using the English Armes and from the titles of the Crown of England and Ireland during the life of Queen Elizabeth and her posteriy That on the other part the Queen of England should oblige her self and the children begotten of her to do nothing in prejudice of the Queen of Scots her succession These were the things acted in this legation Now at home the Queen keeping a progresse in the countrey went from Edinburgh to Striveling from thence to Perth Dundy and S. Andrews and other special Burghs where she was received with much honour and triumph returning to Edinburgh a little before the feast of Michaelmas at which time the Burgesses are wont to elect their annual Magistrates and to set down statutes for the good of the town amongst other acts one was published inhibiting that any adulterer fornicator drunkard Masse Priest or obstinate Papist should be received in the town under such pains as the law did prescribe The Queen interpreting that to be an usurpation of royal power did commit Archibald Douglas Provost to the Castle of Edinburgh charging the Councel of the Town to make a new election which they obeyed chusing Mr. Thomas ... in his place A Proclamation was likewise made granting liberty to all good and faithfull subjects to repair and remain within the Burgh at their pleasure for doing their lawfull and ordinary business These things ministred great offence who seeing the Queen take more liberty then she did in the beginning keeping her Masses more publick and causing them to be celebrated with a greater pomp did mightily complain thereof in their Sermons but profited little for some of the Noblemen who had in former times shewed themselves most jealous against the toleration of idolatrie were grown a little more cold by the flatteries of Court and all of them emulous of others greatness were striving who should be in most favour with the Queen She had some while before this taken to be of her privy Councell the Duke of Chattellerault the Earls of Huntly Argile Atholl Morton Marshall Glencarn Montrosse and Arroll Lord Iames her brother the Lord Ereskin and Mr. Iohn Lesly Bishop of Rosse Huntly was created Chancellor one that in matters of religion had behaved himself very unconstantly and to win the Queens favour was now become altogether Popish This animated the Priests and others of that faction which before were quiet and put them in some heart One Ninian Winyet Schoolmaster at Linlithgow a man of reasonable learning set forth a Book of questions against the confession of Faith which went currant in the Court and was much esteemed by them of his Profession Being cited and divers conferences kept with him to make him acknowledge his errors he continued obstinate and was therefore sentenced by the Church wherefore he forsook the Countrey and flying to Germany was preferred to be Abbot of the Scottish Monastery at Ratisbone where he lived many years The Abbot of Corsragnell in the West published about the same time another Faith Whereunto Iohn Knox having made a reply and the Author in regard of his age and quality of birth for he was of the house of Cassils was thought fit to be overseen Mean while the Court was busied in a consultation how to supply the charge of the Queens house which the ordinary revenues of the Crown could not so honourably maintain as was required Divers being thought upon the readiest seemed to fall upon the Church rents and draw somewhat from the Prelates and beneficed Persons To this purpose they were convened before the Councell and after a long Treaty and many perswasions used considering with themselves how they subsisted merely by the Queens favour and that by refusing a part they might endanger the whole they were induced to yield the third part of their benefices to be disposed of at the Queens pleasure and assumed forth of what places her Collectors should choose her Majesty securing them of the two parts during their lives and liberating them of the Ministers with whose maintenance they were continually boasted It carried some shew of commodity this at first but turned to little or nothing the Prelates and beneficed men undervaluing their rents and making up a third which did afterwards when the number of Ministers increased scarce suffice to their provisions Much about this time a rumour was raised in the Court and went a while uncontrolled that the Earl of Arran intended to ravish the Queen whom he was known to love most passionately She whether counterfeiting a fear or that there was any cause given that way it is not known did leavy a guard of horse and foot to attend her person which put divers in fear and opened the mouths of discontented people as if some grounds of tyranny had been thereby laid But she not regarding these surmises and
no less respect then before In the beginning of the next summer there was a great speech of the interview of the Queens of England and Scotland and messengers to and fro sent to agree upon the place the time and manner of the meeting The motion came from the Queen of Scots who as it was thought greatly affected the same out of a desire she had to live in a firm peace with the Queen of England and make her self known to the subjects of that Countrey Neither was the meeting disliked of the better sort as thinking it would serve besides the preservation of the common peace to bring her unto a liking of the reformed religion But they who were popishly set fearing greatly the conference spake openly against it saying That of such interviewes there was never seen any good fruit and that it would not be safe for the Queen of Scots to put her self in the power of her whose Kingdom she had claimed Not the less the treaty went on and was concluded York condescended to be the place of meeting the numbers on either side agreed unto and the time designed about the end of Iune But whilest all things were in readiness for the journy the Queen of England excused her self by letters desiring the interview should be put off till the next year which the Queen of Scots was not ill pleased to hear for she feared if the same had held that the French King and her uncles should have been much offended This journey being stayed the Queen took her progress unto the North. Being at Striveling she was petitioned by certain Commissioners of the Church for abolishing the Mass and other superstitious rites of the Roman religion and for inflicting some punishment against blasphemy against the contempt of the Word the profanation of the Sacraments the violation of the Sabbaths adultery fornication and other the like vices condemned by the word of God whereof the laws of the Countrey did not take any hold For actions of divorce it was likewise desired that they should be remitted to the judgement of the Church or at least trusted to men of good knowledge and conversation and that Popish Churchmen might be excluded from places in Session and Councell To these Petitions exhibited in writing the Queen after she had perused the same made answer That she would do nothing in prejudice of the religion she professed and hoped before a year was expired to have the Masse and Cattholick profession restored through the whole Kingdome and thus parted from them in a choler About the midst of August she entred into Aberdene and was met by the Lady Huntly a woman of an haughty disposition wise and crafty withall in sifting the minds of others she knowing the mutability of Princes favours laboured to insinuate her selfe in the Queens affection using all servile flattery extolling the power of her husband and repeating the offer he had made for reestablishing the Romane profession in these North parts Then falling to intercede for her son Iohn Gordon who had offended the Queen by his escape forth of ward in which he was put for wounding the Lord Ogilvie upon the high street of Edinburgh she intreated her Majesties favour for that oversight and that he might be licensed to attend her Majesty during her abode in those quarters The Queen understanding what they went about and how they flattered themselves with a conceipt of her marriage answered that it stood not with her honour to admit him in her presence unless he should reenter himself in the place from which he had escap't The Lady thanking her Majesty and promising obedience in her sons behalf did only intreat that the place of his Ward might be changed to the Castle of Striveling whereunto the Queen having yielded the Lord Glames was appointed to convey him thither and he indeed went so farre on the way as to the Nobleman his house of Glames but whether called back by his Father and friends or of his own private motion it is uncertain there he changed his mind and returned to the North where gathering some forces a thousand horse or thereabout with them he drew near to Aberdene The Queen highly commoved with his contempt yet dissembling her anger did after a day or two keep on her journey towards Innerness whither she intended The eighth of September the night before her setting forth were seen in the firmament great inflamations and lightnings extraordinary which continued the space of two houres and above It feared the common sort who do always interpret such accidents to be prognosticks of some trouble But the Queen contemning these things as casual would not hear of altering her journey so the first day she went to Buquhaine the next to Rothemay and the third day being invited by Huntley to his house of Straâ—thbogie where great preparations were made for her receipt she denied to go with him or grace him in any sort till his son gave obedience and so kept on her way The day following she came to Innerness and thinking to lodge in the Castle the Keeper Alexander Gordon refused to give her entry Thereupon she began to suspect some treachery In the Townesmen she could repose no assurance as being all vassals and dependers of Huntley The town it self was unfenced with walls and the countrey all in Arms as she was advertised to attend his coming Yet disposing of things in the best sort she could order was given to keep a strong watch to fortify the passages into the town and have ships prepared in the Road whereunto if need were she might take her refuge About midnight some spies sent from Huntley unto the town were apprehended who discovering his numbers and enterprise were made fast And the next morning upon a rumour that went of her danget the Queen stood in there flocked out of all quarters unto her number of Highlandmen the Frasers and Munroes chiefly with their followers and friendship The Clanchattan in Huntleys company how soon they knew that the enterprise was against the Queen forsook him and slipped aside came and yielded themselves unto her She finding her forces increased commanded to lay siege to the Castle which rendered upon the first assault The Captain and principal Keepers were executed but the lives of the common souldiers spared After some four days abode in the Castle the Queen returned to Aberdene accompanied with all the Noblemen and clans of the countrey and thither came the Lady Huntley with offers of submission for her husband but was denied accesse Huntley perceiving the world thus altered and himself fallen in the Queens displeasure so as there was no hope of regaining her favour betook himself to desperate courses and assembling his friends and others that would run hazard with him he approached to Aberdene presuming much of the affection of the inhabitants At Court he had the Earl of Sutherland and Iohn Lesley of Bughaine men
Majesty should stay made choice of the Castle of Edinburgh as the part most commodious and ordained the Earl of Arrane who was there kept prisoner to be removed to the Castle of Hamilton with a liberty to travel by the space of two miles about providing he should do nothing to the prejudice of his house and enter himself unto 20. days warning in the Castles of Edinburgh Dumbar and Dumbarton or any of them for observance whereof the Earls of Murray and Glencarn became sureties The Queen at her first entrie into the Castle did feast the Nobility and made them all friends Argyle Murray and Athol had lodgings assigned them within the Castle Huntley Bothwel and others of the Nobility remained in the Town The 19. of Iune betwixt nine and ten of the clock in the evening she was brought to bed of a son to the exceeding joy of the subjects for which the Nobles and whole people assembled the next day in the Church of S. Giles gave solemn thanks to God Presently was Sir Iames Melvil sent to carry the newes to the Queen of England who to congratulate her safe and happy delivery sent Sir Henry Killigrew to Scotland by Post. The Assembly of the Church convened the same time in Edinburgh sent the Superintendent of Lothian to testify their gladnesse for the Princes birth and to desire that he should be baptized according to the form used in the reformed Church To this last she gave no answer otherwise the Superintendent and his Commission were very graciously accepted The Queen calling to bring the Infant that the Superintendent might see him he took him in his Armes and falling upon his knees conceived a short and pithy prayer which was very attentively heard by her having closed his prayer he took the babe and willed him to say Amen for himself which she took in so good part as continually afterwards she called the Superintendent her Amen This story told to the Prince when he came to years of understanding he alwayes called him his Amen and whilest he lived did respect and reverence him as his Spiritual Father The Queen waxing strong went by water to Alloway a house pertaining to the Earl of Marre and kept private a few dayes In that place brake out first her displeasure against the King her husband for the following her thither was not suffered to stay but commanded to be gone and when at any time after he came to Court his company was so loathsome unto her as all men perceived she had no pleasure nor content in it such a deep indignation had possessed her mind because of the disgrace offered to her in the slaughter of her servant Davie the envy whereof was all laid upon the King as she could never digest it Secretary Lethington who by his subtle flatteries was crept again into favour did wickedly foster this passion by putting in her head a possibility to divorce from the King which he said was an easie work and a thing that might be done only by abstracting the Popes dispensation of their marriage And the Earl Bothwel a man sold to all wickednes did likewise by himself and by his instruments of whom Sir Iames Balfour was the chief take all occasions to incense her and by exaggerating the Kings ingratitude towards her wrought her mind to an hatred implacable In the beginning of October the Queen went to Iedburgh to keep some Justice Courts where she fell dangerously sick the King coming there to visit her had no countenance given him and was forced to depart At her return from the Borders being in Craigmillar Lethington renuing the purpose of divorce in the hearing of the Earls of Argyle and Huntley did perswade her to take some course for her separation from the King seeing they could not live together in Scotland with security The Queen asking him how that could be done without some blemish to her honour he replied that none would think ill of her part therein she being so ungratefully used by him but that all might know the murther of Davie to have been his fact her Majesty should do well to pardon the Lords that were fled to England and call them home Nay said the Queen I will rather have matters to continue as they are till God remedie them Yet within few days Morton and Lindesay were recalled at the intreaty of the Earls of Argyle and Huntley as was touched before Preparation was then making for the Baptisme of the Prince who about the end of August had been transported to Striveling To honour this solemnity the Counte de Briance was sent Ambassadour from the French King Monsieur de Croke from the Duke of Savey and the Earl of Bedford from the Queen of England who brought with him a Font of gold weighing two stone weight with a Bason and Ewer for the Baptisme At the day appointed for the solemnity which was the fifteenth of December they all convened in the Castle of Striveling The Prince was carried by the French Ambassadour walking betwixt two ranks of Barons and Gentlemen that stood in the way from the Chamber to the Chappel holding every one a proket of wax in their hands The Earl of Athol went next to the French Ambassador bearing the grear fierge of wax The Earl of Eglington carried the Salt the Lord Semple the Cude and the Lord Ross the Bason and Ewer all these were of the Romane profession In the entry of the Chappel the Prince was received by the Archbishop of S. Andrews whose Collaterals were the Bishops of Dunkeld Dumblane and Ross there followed them the Prior of Whithern sundry Deans and Archdeans with the Gentlemen of the Chappel in their several habits and Copes The Countesse of Argyle by Commission from the Queen of England did hold up the Prince at the Font where the Archbishop did administer the Baptisme with all ceremonies accustomed in the Romane Church the spittle excepted which the Queen did inhibit The Earl of Bedford entered not in the Chappel during the service and without the dores stood all the Noblemen professors of the reformed Religion The rites performed the Prince was proclaimed by his name and Titles Iames Prince and Stewart of Scotland Duke of Rothesay Earl of Carrick Lord of the Isles and Baron of Renfrew then did the Musick begin which having continued a good space the Prince was again conveighed to his chamber It was night before the solemnity took end for it was done in the afternoon The feasting and triumphal sports that followed were kept some days with exceeding cost and magnificence yet the content the people received thereby was nothing so great as their offence for the Kings neglect for neither was he admitted to be present at the Baptisme nor suffered to come unto the feast To some his ill disposition was given for an excuse others more scornfully were told that his fashioners had not used the diligence they ought
whether all they that had taken Armes against the King and not sued for pardon should be forfeited or if sentence should be given against a few only to terrify the rest and hope of favour left unto others upon their obedience Secretary Lethington who did secretly favour the other faction maintained the calmest course to be the best and by the perswasions he used wrought so as the processe against the better sort was continued and some of meaner note only proscribed which was interpreted even as the Regent conceived to proceed of fear and not of a mind to reclaim them The Earl of Rothes only of all the Noblemen of that side reconciled himself accepting three years exile for his punishment Some others of meaner sort the Regent received into favour and such as stood out he pursued by force of Armes making an expedition into the countries of Nidisdale Annandale and the lower parts of Galloway where he put Garisons in the Castles and strong Forts that were judged necessary to be kept others he demolished threw to the ground and had in a short space as it was thought reduced the whole countrey to his obedience if he had not been stayed by other letters by the Queen of England for the offending that he should have gone on in that manner whereas she had willed him to deferre all things till she was informed of the whole cause sent by one of her servants called Middlemore a sharp letter unto him declaring that she would not endure the sacred authority of Kings to be in that sort abused at the appetite of factious subjects and howsoever they had forgot their duties to their Soveraign she would not neglect her sister and neighbour Queen Therefore willed him to direct certain Commissioners to enform her how matters had passed men that could answer the complaints made by the Queen of Scotland against him and his complices which if he failed to do she would restore her to her Kingdome with all the power she could make The Regent took it grievously that matters determined in Parliament should be brought again in question and to plead before forain Judges he held it dishonourable yet considering the adversaries he had the Cardinal of Lorain abroad who swayed all things in the French Court and at home many of the Nobility and that if he did offend the Queen of England his difficulties should be every way great he was glad to yield to the conditions required though against his will Thus it being condescended the Commissioners should be sent when as they could not agree upon the persons the principal Noblemen refusing the imployment the Regent himself offered to undertake the journey and to accompany him choice was made of the Bishop of Orkney and Abbot of Dunfermlin for the spiritual estate of the Earl of Morton and Lord Lindesay for the temporal and of Mr. Iames Macgill and Mr. Henry Balnaves Senators of the Colledge of Justice besides these there went with him Secretary Lethington and Mr. George Buchannan The Secretary had long withstood the sending of any Commissioners thither and simply refused to go in that journey yet the Regent not holding it safe to leave him at home whom he knew to be a busie man and a practiser under-hand with the other party did insist so with him as in end he consented The Commission was given in the Kings name under the Great Seal to the Regent the Earl of Morton the Bishop of Orkney the Abbot of Dunfermlin and Lord Lindesay or to any three of them for convening with the deputies of the Queen of England at York or any other place or places they should think expedient there to make plain and ample declarations to them I keep the very words of the Commission for informing his good sister of the true causes whereupon divers of the Nobility and good subjects during the time that the Queen his Mother was yet possessor of the Crown took occasion to put on Armes to take detain and sequestrate her person for a time with all causes actions circumstances and other their proceedings whatsoever towards her or any other subjects of the Realm since that time unto the day and date of the said Commission or that should fall out untill the return of the said Commissioners whereby the Justice of their cause and honourable dealing might be manifested to the world As likewise to commune treat determine and conclude with his said sister or her Commissioners having sufficient authority upon all differences causes or matters depending betwixt the subjects of either Realm or for further confirmation or augmentation of any treaty of peace heretofore made and concluded betwixt the Realms or for contracting and perfecting any other treaty or confederation as well maintenance of the true Religion publickly professed by the inhabitants of both the Realms as for resisting any forain or intestine power that might be stirred up within the same to disturb the present quietnesse that it hath pleased the Almighty God to grant unto both the Kingdomes in the unity of the said Religion and for increase of amity peace and concord betwixt him and his said sister their Realms dominions people and subjects And generally to do and conclude all things which by them or any three of them should seem convenient and necessary for the premises or any part thereof promising to hold firm and stable c. This Commission is of the date aâ— Edinburgh the 18th of September 1568. In Iuly preceding there was an Assembly of the Church kept at Edinburgh wherein Mr. Iohn Willock Superintendent of the west being elected to moderate the meeting made difficulty to accept the place unlesse some better order was observed then had been in former times for even then the multitudes that convened and indiscreet behaviour of some who loved to seem more zealous then others did cause a great confusion Obedience being promised by the whole number he assumed the Charge And there it was enacted That none should be admitted to have voice in these Assemblies but Superintendents Visiters of Churches Commissioners of Shires and Universities and such Ministers as the Superintendents should chuse in their Diocesan Synods and bring with them being men of knowledge and able to reasâ—n and judge of matters that should happen to be proponed And that the Assembly should not be troubled with unnecessary businesse it was ordained That no matters should be moved which the Superintendents might and ought to determine in their Synods Some Acts of discipline were also concluded as that Papists continuing obstinate after lawful admonitions should be excommunicated and that the committers of murther incest adultery and other such hainous crimes should not be admitted to make satisfaction by any particular Church till they did first appear in the habit of penitents before the general assembly and there receive their injunctions A supplication also was put up to the Regent and Councel wherein amongst other
is apparent that wickedness did never reign more and with lesse controlment in the Realm murther bloodshed with theft and robbery every where abounding policy destroyed Churches thrown down honourable families ruinated and true men bereft of their goods for satisfying the souldiers hired by them to maintain the Regents usurped government the like whereof hath not been seen nor heard for many ages before In regard whereof they in behalf of the Queen of Scotland their Mistresse did earnestly request the support and assistance of the Queen of England her cousin for restoring her to her Crown and suppressing the rebels that had attempted against her The English Commmissioners having perused the writings of both sides declared that as yet they were not satisfied with any thing the Regent had shewed requiring him to produce some better and more sound reasons for the severity they had used against their Soveraign otherwise they could not but think she had been too hardly dealt with and report so much to the Queen their Mistresse The Regent who disliked nothing more then to be drawn into the accusation of the Queen his sister answered that he could not be more particular till he should be assured that the Queen of England would undertake the protection of the young King and relinquish the cause of his Mother The Commissioners replying that they had no warrant to promise any such thing he besought them to try the Queens mind that her pleasure being known he might sooner resolve what to do Letters hereupon was sent to the Queen who willed the Regent to direct some one or moe of his side to Court for her better information To this effect Secretary Lethington and Mr. Iames Macgill Clerk of the Rolls were sent thither with whom the Queen having conferred a little time she gave order to recall her Commissioners and advertise the Regent himself to come unto her At his coming the Queen laid to his charge the proceeding against his sister the Queen of Scots saying that she did not see how he and the rest of his faction could well be excused and that unlesse matters were better cleard on their parts she could not deny the help and assistance that was required at her hands The Regent according to the condition proposed at York answered That if she would take upon her the defence of the King they should be more particular in their reasons for rejecting the Queens authority and clear every thing they should speak sufficiently otherwise to accuse his sister and Queen would be held odious in the judgement of all men Whilest these things were a doing in England the Queens faction at home sought all occasions to make trouble abusing the popular sort with rumours they dispersed Sometimes giving out that the Regent was made prisoner in the Tower At other times that he had promised to subject the Kingdom of Scotland to the English to deliver the young King to be brought up in England and put all the forts and strong holds in the Realm in their hands Nor was any man more busied in dispersing such lies and using all means else for stirring up tumult then Sir Iames Balfour instigated thereto by advertisement from the Secretary as was commonly thought For by his advise it was that the Scottish Queen at the same time sent Commissions of Lieutenandrie to divers Noblemen for erecting again her authority like as all the while he remained in England he did ever keep intelligence with the Bishop of Rosse and others the Queens agents and was one of the chief plotters of the match intended betwixt her and the Duke of Norfolk which came shortly after to be detected The Regent who was not ignorant of these secret workings did finde there was a necessity of his returning home to prevent the commotions that were breeding before they grew into a greater ripeness and fearing to offend the Queen of England if he should depart without giving her satisfaction in the particulars she desired to be informed of touching the Queen of Scots resolved to do it but with a protestation which he presented in writing to the Councell at Westminster the 28. of November in this form Albeit our whole proceedings from the beginning of our interprise directed onely for the punishment of the King murther and the purging of our Nation from the scandall of that abominable fact may let the world see how unwilling we have been to touch the Queen our Soveraign Lords Mother in honour or to publish unto strangers matters tending to her infamy yet shall it not be amisse upon the present occasion to shew briefly what hath been and still is our meaning therein Such and so great was our devotion toward her as well for private affection whereby every one of us was led to wish her well as for publick respects that rather then we would blemish her honour with the foreknowledge of that detestable murther we choosed to wink at the shrewd reports of the world and let our selves to be blasoned as rebels and traitours to our native Prince which had been easie for us to have wiped away with the uttering of a few words if the desire we had to save her reputation bad not made us content that the world should still live in doubt of the justice of our quarrell and speak every one as their affections were inclined So when we were urged by the Queens Majesty of England and the French Kings Ambassadours to give a reason why we detained our Queen at Lochleven we gave no other answer but that her affection was so excessively towards Bothwell the committer of that odious murther that she being at liberty it would not be possible to punish him and that it behooved us for a season to sequestrate her person till he might be apprehendâ—d and punished In what danger this dealing brought us we have no need to shew From France we had nothing to expect but open Hostility and by keeping up the chief causes of her rejection we had reason to fear that the Queen of England should call our proceeding in doubt and so leave us destitute of her Majesties aid at whose hands we look principally to receive comfort in time of danger This course nottheless we should still have kept if the importunity of our adversaries had not forced us to take another way For remembring what a person she is whom we are brought to accuse the Mother of our King and soveraign Lord a Lady to whom in particular the greatest part of us are so farre obliged for benefits received that if with the perpetuall exile of any one or of a number of us forth of our Native Countrey we could redeem her honour without the danger of the King and whole Estate we would willingly banish our selves to that end And therefore ere we dip further in the matter which to this boure we have shunned we solemnly protest that it is not any delight we take in accusing her but a necessity
And to shew that in his election no respect was had to neerness of bloud his elder brother Alexander was then alive who would not have been passed if propinquity or kindred had carried the sway How Duke Murdack and his father before him came to govern it was well known King Robert the third waxing infirm and unable to rule by himself did substitute his brother called Robert likewise his Lieutenant in the Kingdome commending his tow sons David and Iames to his care But the kindness he shewed to them was that the elder of the two was starved to death in the Palace of Falkland and the younger forced fly for his life he being detained prisoner in England After the fathers death the uncle usurped still the place wherewith he was possessed and at his dying left the same to Murdack his son As to that he speaks of his own Regiment they said he had done more wisely not to have mentioned it considering his preferment proceeded rather of hatred born to the Cardinall who had supposed a false testament then of any favour carried to himself And that being possessed in the place he sold both it and the young Queen to the French which had bred a great deal of trouble And granting the custome had been such as he pratends will any man in reason judge it safe to commit the tuition of an innocent child to him whose family hath entertained so long enmity with that of which the King is descended and will ever be waiting and wishing the death of his Pupill none will think it This was the substance of the reply which when the Queen of England heard she directed certain of the Councell to shew the Duke that he was not to look for any help from her in that businesse and to prohibite his journey into Scotland till the Regent was parted and gone home About the same time there were letters of the Queen of Scots intercepted sent to the Noblemen of her party in Scotland wherein she complained That the Queen of England had not kept promise unto her yet desired them to be of good heart because she was assured of aid by some other means and hoped to be with them in a short time These letters sent from Scotland to the Regent he delivered to the Queen of England who from thenceforth was much estranged from the Queen of Scots as well for that she charged her with breach of promise as because it appeared she leaned to some others besides her self The Regent presently after took his journey homewards and being attended by the Sheriffes and Gentlemen of the Countrey at the Queen of Englands direction came safely to Berwick the first of February and the day following to Edinburgh within a few days he went to Striveling and in a convention of the Estates having related the proceedings in England had all ratified and approved The twentieth of the same moneth the Duke of Chattellerault returned and being made deputy by the Queen of Scots caused publish his letters prohibitting the subjects to acknowledge any other Soveraign then the Queen Hereupon the Regent gave forth Proclamations charging the lieges in the Kings name to meet him in Arms at Glasgow the tenth of March The Duke in the mean time sent to the Assembly of the Church convened at that time in Edinburgh a prolixe letter wherein he signified That being in France and hearing what troubles were moved at home the love he carried to his native countrey made him return with intent to pacify these stirres at his utmost power And howbeit in his absence he had suffered wrong yet he assured them that his own particular did not grieve him so much as the danger wherein the Kingdom was brought by the diversity that had happened betwixt the Queen their native Soveraign and a part of her subjects which he wished to be removed in some quiet and peaceable manner and that the Estates convening might after they had considered the ground and beginning of these troubles which he conceived to be the murther of the Queens late husband with one consent agree upon soem reasonable course to be followed for redresse thereof and of the evils which thence had proceeded whereunto he and all the Nobility continuing in the obedience of the Queen their Soveraign should be found pliable which he did not write as he said because of the Proclamations made by the Earl of Murray to convene people in Glasgow the tenth of March for since these troubles began he was not in the countrey and if all Scotland were gathered he would trust for his own and his predecessors good deserving to find such favour as if the Earl of Murray would invade him and his friends he should not be assisted by any of them to do him wrong Therefore desired them in Gods behalfe so the letter beareth to make his minde and intention known to the people or if they did not think his desires and offers reasonable that they would come and reason with himself whom they should finde easy to be ruled in all matters according to Gods word and equity To this letter dated at Hamilton the 27. of February 1568. the Assembly answered That they would communicate the Letter with the Regent and know his pleasure whether or not they should send any of their number to the Duke in Commission to treat with his Grace Which accordingly they did appointing the Superintendents of Lothian and Fise with Mr. Iohn Row to go unto the Regent and having obtained his licence to pass to the Duke and Noblemen that were in his company and use all means possible for reconciling them to the obedience of the King and his Regent They had also certain Petitions given them to be presented to the Regent in name of the Church as to desire That benesiced persons not bearing function in the Church and subject only in paiment of thirds should be compelled to contribute for sustentation of the poor That remedy might be provided against the chopping and changing of Benefices diminution of rentals and setting of Tithes in long leases to the defrauding of Ministers and their successors that they who possessed plurality of Benesices might be caused dimit all saving one That the jurisdiction of the Church might be separated from the Civil and that they might without his Graces offence and the Councels use their censures against the Earl of Huntley for deposing the Collectors of the Church and placing others in their roomes by his own authority Such a respect was carried in that time to Civil power as the Church could not proceed in censures against men in prime places without their knowledge the neglect whereof in after times brought with it great troubles both to the Church and State I find in the same Assembly the University of S. Andrews ordained to meet and form such orders as they should think fit for giving degrees in divinity whereby it appeareth that our first
here with Robert Pitcarne Abbot of Dunfermline a man of good sufficiency was directed who was willed to say for the point of assotiation That the same could not be granted as tending to the utter overthrow of the Kings authority and the indangering of his person For besides that the participation of a Crown was obnoxious to many perils there could be no equality of Government betwixt an infant King and a woman of mature age who would finde a thousand wayes being once possessed with a part of the rule to draw the whole unto her self And if it should fall that she matched with some forrain Prince or other great Personage who must needs be partner with her in the Government the danger would be so much the greater These and the like reasons he was willed to use for the Queen of Englands satisfaction But before his coming to Court the face of things was quite changed The Duke of Northfolk committed to the Tower and the Bishop of Ross put in the keeping of the Bishop of London After which brake shortly forth that rebellion in the North part of England whereof Thomas Piercie Earl of Northumberland and Charles Nevill Earl of Westmerland were the heads A rebellion that in the beginning caused great stirre and put the Queen of England in such fears as once she resolved to send the Queen of Scots by Sea to the Regent but the sudden dispersing of the rebells altered that resolution The two Earles fleeing into Scotland Northumberland was not long after put out by some borderers to the Regent and sent to be kept in Lochlevin Westmerland found the means to escape into Flanders where he lived long in a poor and contemptible estate Lethington perceiving all his devices frustrated and being conscious to himself of diversill practices remained for the most part with the Earl of Atholl at Perth who being sent for to come to the Regent made divers excuses and when he could not shift his coming any longer intreated Atholl to accompany him that if need was he might use his intercession Being at Striveling in Councell Captain Thomas Crawfourd servant to the Earl of Lenox did openly charge him with the Kings murther whereupon he was committed in a chamber within the Castle of Striveling â—nd at the same time were certain directed to apprehend Sr. Iames Balfour who was guilty of the same crime but he made an escape Lethington was sent prisoner to Edinburgh where he was to have his triall under the charge of Alexander Home of North Berwick a trusty Gentleman Having stayed some dayes in lodging not far from the Castle the Laird of Grange counterfeiting the Regents hand came about ten of the clock at night and presented a warrant for receiving the prisoner in his keeping the Gentleman taking no suspicion obeyed for he knew no man to be more inward with the Regent then was Grange And he indeed unto that time did carry the reputation of an honest man nor was any one thought more sure and fast then he was But from thenceforth he became hated of all good men and was in no esteem as having abused his credit and deceived the Regent to whom he was many wayes obliged For besides other benefits he had preferred him before all his own friends to be keeper of the Castle of Edinburgh The next day being sent for to come to the Regent he refused Nottheless the next day following so carefull the Regent was to reclaim the man he went himself to the Castle and conferred a good space with him accepting the excuse he made and contenting himself with a promise to exhibite Lethington when he should be called to his triall After which keeping his journey to the borders which he had intended he went by the Mers and as he was accustomed tooke up his lodging in the Castle of Home But there he was coldly received the Lord of the place having changed his party and taken himself to the contrary faction From thence he went to Teviotdale and though he was advised by his friends because of his small company to return and deferre his journey to another time he would needs go on and had great obedience shewed in all the parts to whom he came All the time of this expedition he had warning given him dayly of some practices against his life wherein Grange was ever named as one of the principalls But he not trusting these informations sent the copies of all his advertisements to Grange whose purgations were so slender as he was ever after that time held suspected Soon after the Regents return from the borders the Abbot of Dunfermline came home from England shewing that the Queen had taken in good part the answer of the Councell and was specially pleased with the taking of Northumberland which she promised to remember with all kindness And now the Diet approaching of Lethingtons triall because of the numbers that were preparing to keep the day the Regent disliking such convocations and for that he would not have Justice outbragged did prorogate the same for foure moneths The adverse faction finding his authority dayly to increase and despairing of any success in their attempts so long as he lived resolved by some violent means to cut him off and to bring the matter to pass one Iames Hamilton of Bothwell-haugh did offer his service This man had been imprisoned some time and being in danger of his life redeemed the same by making over a parcell of land in Lothian called Woodhously that came to him by his wife to Sir Iames Ballenden Justice Clerk How soon he was let at liberty he sought to be repossessed to his own and not seeing a way to recover it for the Justice Clerk would not part therewith he made his quarrell to the Regent who was most innocent and had restored him both to life and liberty The great promises made him by the faction with his private discontent did so confirm his mind as he ceased not till he put to execution the mischief he had conceived against him and having failed the occasion which he attended at Glasgow and Striveling he followed the Regent to Linlithgo where lurking privately in the Archbishop of St. Andrews his lodging the next day as the Regent did pass that way he killed him with the shot of a bullet that entering a little beneath the navell and piercing the bowels did strike dead the horse of a Gentleman who was riding on his other side The Regent had warning given him the same morning that one did ly in wait for his life and had the house designed where the man did lurk but giving small ear unto it answered that his life was in the hands of God which he was ready to yield at his good pleasure Onely he resolved to pass out of the Town by the same gate at which he entered and to turn on the back of the Town unto the way that led to Edinburgh whither
he was purposed But when he had taken horse either that he would not seem fearfull or then hindered by the throng of horsemen that attended and thinking to ride quickly by the house that was suspected he changed his resolution but the throng there working him the like impediment the murtherer had the occasion to execute his treachery How soon the Regent perceived himself stricken he lighted from his horse and returned on foot to his lodging The Chirurgeon at the first inspection of his wound did affirm it not to be deadly yet after a few houres his pain increasing he began to think on death They who stood by saying that he had lost himself by his clemency having spared that miscreant whose life he might justly have taken he answered that they should never make him forthink any good he had done in his life Thereafter giving order for his private affairs he seriously commended the care of the young King to such of the Nobility as were present and died a little before midnight This fell out the 23. of Ianuary 1569. being Saturday The murtherer escaping by the Postern-gate of the garden came the same night to the town of Hamilton where at first he was welcomed with many gratulations and made much of yet shortly after to decline the envy of the fact which they heard was universally detested they gave him a little money and sent him away unto France Thuanus writeth in his story that not long after he came thither he was solicited to undertake the like interprise against Gasper Colignie that worthy Admirall of France and that he did answer that he had no warrant from Scotland to commit murthers in France and howbeit he had taken revenge of the wrong done to himselfe he was not either for price or prayer to undertake other mens quarrells Whether this was so or not I leave it upon the credit of the Writer The death of the Regent was by all good men greatly lamented especially by the Commons who loved him as their father whilest he lived and now mourned grievously at his death The great things he had wrought in his life haveing in the space of one yeare and a little more quieted the State which he found broken and disordered made his very enemies speake of him after his death with praise and commendation Above all his virtues which were not a few he shined in Piety towards God ordering himself and his Family in such sort as it did more resemble a Church then a Court. For therein besides the exercise of devotion which he never omitted there was no wickedness to be seen nay not an unseemly or wanton word to be heard A man truly good and worthy to be ranked amongst the best Governours that this Kingdome hath enjoyed and therefore to this day honoured with the Title of The good Regent There fell out the next day after his death a thing which I thought was not to be passed He was killed on the Saturday and died as I have said a little before midnight The word of his death coming to Edenburgh Thomas Maitland a younger brother of Lethinton this is he whom Buchannan makes his Collocutor in the Dialogue De jure Regni knowing what esteem Iohn Knox made of the Regent and loving none of the two caused a writing to be laid in the Pulpit where Iohn Knox was that day to preach to this sense and almost in the same words Take up the man whom you accounted another God and consider the end whereto his ambition hath brought him Iohn Knox finding the paper and taking it to be a memoriall for recommending some sick persons in his Prayers after he had read the same laid it by nothing as it seemed commoved therewith yet in the end of the Sermon falling to regrate the loss that the Church and Common-wealth had received by the death of the Regent and shewing how God did often for the sins of the people take away good Rulers and Governours I perceive said he albeit this be an accident we should all take to heart There be some that rejoyce in this wicked fact making it the subject of their mirth amongst whom there is one that hath caused a writing to be cast in this place insulting upon that which is all good mens sorrow This wicked man whosoever he be shall not goe unpunished and shall die where none shall be to lament him The Gentleman was himself present at Sermon and being come to the lodging asked his sister who was also there if she did not think Iohn Knox was raving to speak so of the man he knew not But she weeping said that she was sory he had not followed her counsell for she had disswaded him from that doing None of this mans denunciations said she are wont to prove idle but have their own effect Shortly after the troubles of the Countrey increasing the Gentleman betook himself to travel and passing into Italy died there having no known person to attend him This I thought not unworthy of record being informed thereof by the Gentlemans sister to whom these speeches were uttered and who was privy to the whole purpose for an advertisement to all persons not to make a light account of the threatnings of Gods servants The Gentleman was otherwise a youth of great hopes learned and courteous but miscarried with affection and not to be excused in this that he took pleasure in the fall of him whom he judged an enemy a thing inhumane and abhorred of the very heathen The word of the Regents death carried in haste to England the Queen sent Thomas Randolph Master of her Posts Ambassadour into Scotland partly to conferre with the Councel upon the surest means to keep affairs in the state they were and partly to complain of the incursion lately made in England For the very night after the Regents murther Walter Scot of Baclugh and Thomas Kâ—r of Pharnherst had invaded the countrey bordering upon them and practised greater hostility then was accustomed of purpose to embroyle the two Kingdomes in a publick warre which they of the Scottish Queens faction most earnestly desired The Ambassadour was no sooner come but he had hearing given him by the Councel to whom after he had spoken a few words concerning her Majesties good affection to the Realm in general and in her name commending to their care the preservation of Religion the safety of the young King and the punishment of the late murther he did much aggravate the insolence of the borderers and the spoil they had made in England saying That his Mistresse knew sufficiently that these things were not done by publick allowance and therefore meant not to make quarrel to the countrey but take her self to the actors whom if they by themselves could not suppress her Majesty would either joyn her power to theirs or if they thought meet send an Army into Scotland which without doing harm to any good subject should only
Edinburgh using all means to draw the Town to be of their party which they thought would be easily obtained by reason of Grange his Commandment and if they should once compasse this they put no doubt to draw the rest of the countrey their way in a short time But first they resolved to advertise the Town of their coming and to intreat their favour The Magistrates answered That their gates should be patent to all that professed themselves subjects to the King but they would neither receive the English Rebels meaning the Earl of Westmerland and Lord Dacres who were in company with the Lords nor the Hamiltons and others suspected of the Regents murther nor yet to permit any Proclamations to be made derogatory to the Kings authority These conditions seemed to them hard yet hoping by conversation to winne the people to their side they came forward The next day after their coming to the Town they gave out a Proclamation Declaring their good affection towards the maintenance of true Religion their Soveraign the liberty of the countrey and the setling of the present divisions which must as they said unlesse timous remedy were provided bring the Realm to utter destruction They desired therefore all men to know that they had esteemed the enterprise taken by some Noblemen against the Earl of Bothwel for revenging the murther of the King and setting of the Queen at liberty both good and honourable whereunto they would have given their assistance if the same had been duly required And for the things that had intervened which they did forbear to mention lest they should irritate the minds of any their desire was the same might be in a familiar and friendly conference calmly debated and a peaceable course taken for removing the differences Mean while because they understood that some unquiet spirits gave out that their present convening was for the subversion of the religion presently professed as they could not but give notice to all the subjects that they who were now assembled were for the most part the first and chiefest instruments in advancing Religion and had still continued in professing the same with a resolution to spend their lands and lives in maintenance thereof So they desired to have it know that their meeting at that time did only proceed from a desire they had to see a perfect union and agreement established in the Realm for which they were ready to meet with those of the Nobility that differed from them in judgement and condescend after the ground of the differences was ript up upon such overtures as should be found agreeable to the setting forth of God his honour the strengthening of the Royal succession the preservation of the young Prince the entertaining of peace with forain Nations and the setling of accord amongst the Noblemen and other subjects This they declared to be their sole intention and rather then the same should not take the wished effect they were content to yield unto any conditions that should be thought reasonable under protestation that if this their godly and honest purpose for the reunion of the State was neglected and despised the inconvenients that ensued might be imputed to the refusers and the Noblemen presently convened be discharged thereof before God and man This was the substance of the Proclamation in the end whereof the lieges were charged to concurre with them in forthsetting that godly purpose and a prohibition made under great pains to joyn with any others that should attempt under the cloak of whatsoever authority to hinder the same But neither did this declaration nor the great travel taken by the Earl of Athol at the same time prevail with the other Noblemen to bring them to this meeting for still they excused themselves by the Convention appointed in May which they said there was no necessity to prevent or if any extraordinary occasion did require it the same being signified to the Earl of Morton who lay at Dalkeith upon his advertisement they should be ready to meet So finding their hopes this way disappointed by advice of the Secretary whose directions only they followed they took purpose to deal with the Earl of Morton apart To this effect the Earl of Athol the Prior of Coldinghame brother to the Secretary and the Lord Boyd were selected to confer with the Earl of Morton and Abbot of Dunfermlin but they could come to no agreement For the Earl of Morton of whom they had conceived some hope would not hearken to any conditions except they did acknowledge the King for their Soveraign Hereupon they â—ell to other counsels and first to have the Town of Edinburgh at their direction they craved the keys of the gates to be delivered which being refused they resolved to contribute moneys for hiring of souldiers and to draw so many of their friends and followers thither as with help of the Castle might command the Town But as they were about these devices advertisement was brought of an Army come to Berwick under the command of the Earl of Sussex which troubled all these projects To remain in Edinburgh they held it not safe yet lest it should be thought that they left the Town for fear the Magistrates were privately desired to intreat them to depart lest the English should fall upon the Town and make a spoil of it So making a shew to please the Town by whom they had been very courteously used they went to Linlithgow and abode there the rest of that moneth Before their parting they gave a warrant to the Laird of Grange for fortifying the Castle and dimitting the Lords Home and Hereis who had been committed by the late Regent The Duke of Chattellerault was some days before put to liberty The Lord Home had a part of the moneys which were contributed for levying of souldiers given him to defend his bounds against the English but when the Lairds of Bacleugh and Farnherst desired the like they were refused and went away in a great discontent About the end of April the Army of England entring into Teviotdale burnt the Towns of Lynwick and Crawling with the Castles of Farnherst and Brauxholm and divers houses belonging to the Kers and Scots And in their return to Berwick besieged the Castle of Home which was rendred by the Keepers to Sir William Drury at the Lord Home his direction for he reposed much in his friendship The Lord Scroop at the same time invading the West borders made a great spoil upon the Iohnstons and others who had accompanied Bacleugh in his incursion The Lords that kept together at Linlithgow having advertisement of these proceedings of the English and suspecting they had some other intentions then the spoiling of the borders sent a Gentleman to the Earl of Sussex to request a truce till they might inform the Queen of England of the estate of things and receive her Majesties answer The Earl opening the letters that were directed to the Queen
opinions of divers famous Divines The Queen of England having considered their reasons was not a little displeased both with the bitter speeches and with the liberty they had used in depressing the authority of Princes and thereupon told them That she was in no sort satisfied with their reasons willing them to go unto the second head and devise what they thought meetest for the safety of their King and themselves But said they refusing that they had no Commission to speak of any thing that might derogate from the Kings authority and if such a Commission had been given them they would not have accepted it In these terms matters continued some days till the Commissioners for the King of Scots suting to be dimitted were sent for to Greenwich where the Queen had a long speech tending all to declare what a good will she had carried to the young King and to those that professed his obedience and wondering they should be so wilful and not to deliberate of such things as served to their own safety The Commissioners answering that they believed the reasons produced would have satisfied her Majesty touching their proceedings which as they esteemed were sufficient to prove that they had done nothing but according to justice Yet I saith the Queen am not satisfied neither with your reasons nor lawes nor examples nor am I ignorant of the lawes my self having spent divers years in the study thereof If ye your selves will not saith she propone any thing for your own sureties yet I would have you hear what my Councel is able to say in that matter and I hope it shall content you They answered that their respect to her Majesty was greater then to refuse any good advice which she and her good Councel should give them but that they had no power to consent to any thing that might inferre an alteration of the present state or diminish the Kings authority The next day the Articles following were given them and they desired to consider of the same and set down their Answer in writing 1. That in regard her son had been crowned King by vertue of her dimission and his Coronation ratified by the three Estates of Parliament and that since that time a great number of the subjects had professed obedience to him and his Regents which was to be interpreted in the best part as done out of duty and not out of any ill mind towards their Queen the obedience so yielded to the King and his Regents should be allowed from the time of the dimission of the Crown made by her unto the resumption of the same And all manner of Acts done since that time in the administration of justice and for government of the State should be reputed good and lawful or at least reviewed and confirmed in the next Parliament after consideration taken of the same by twelve Lords whereof six should be named by the Queen and her Commissioners and the other six by the Commissioners for the Kings part 2. That all Statutes and Ordinances made concerning matters of Religion and the Ministers thereof since the same time should be observed by all the subjects of Scotland and no pardon nor dispensation granted in time coming to any person not observing the same without consent of the said twelve Lords 3. That all Processes Sentences and Judgements given either in causes civil or criminal since the said time wherein the order of the laws of the Realm had been observed should remain in force and only such sentences as had been pronounced either in the name of the King or Queen against any person for not obeying or acknowledging either of their Titles be rescinded the sentences alwayes pronounced against the Earl of Bothwel or any others for the murther of the Queens husband standing good and valid 4. That all Ecclesiastical benefices and temporal offices which have usually continued in the person of any during term of life should remain with the same persons that held them at the time of the Queens dimission such excepted as may be proved to have consented to the murther of her husband or that have left them upon recompence and with their own consents In which cases the present possessors should enjoy the same unlesse they were uncapable and declared by the twelve Lords to be such 5. That all strengths Castles and houses appertaining to the Crown should be restored to the possession of those who held them at the time of the Queens dimission except they had parted therewith upon agreement In which case the Queen with consent of the said twelve Lords or the most part of the Councel should dispose thereof 6. That the Jewels Plate Moveables and implements of houses belonging to the Queen at the time of her dimission should be restored provided the moneys which any had laid out for the same were repayed And for such as had been put away by the direction of the Regents or Councel that recompence should be made by the Queen to the party according to the just value 7. That a law should be established in Parliament for oblivion and remission of all things done since that time after the same manner that was done in the year 1563. providing not the lesse that the Comptroller Thesaurer and other receivers of the Crown revenues should give an accompt to the Queen of all summes of money or other profits which had not been expended bona fide for the affairs of the Realm or by order and warrant from the Regent and others trusted with those affairs Neither should the remission be extended to any that had taken by force any houses Castles lands or heritages belonging to others but restitution should be made thereof to the party dispossessed or to his heirs till the same by order of law be justly determined In like manner concerning goods moveable taken away from the Owners against their wills and being yet in their own nature extant that restitution should be made thereof And because many doubts might arise upon this Article the same should be determined by the foresaid twelve Lords or otherwise as was devised for the execution of the Act made Anno 1563. 8. That for the more quiet government of the Realm there should be appointed a Privy Councel which should consist of twelve Lords spiritual and temporal besides the other ordinary officers that do usually attend And that the said Councel should be established with the like provisions that were made at the return of the Queen out of France Anno 1561. So many as were then Counsellors and yet alive being counted of that number and that the Earl of Lennox because he was most bound by nature to take care of the King should be one of the Councel and have place therein according to his degree 9. That for the greater safety of the Kings person he should be brought into the Realm of England and there governed by such Noblemen of Scotland as depend of him so as he may be ever
from the Regent at Corstorphin had the foot souldiers left with him to withstand the enemy if he should make any suddain attempt Nor did there many days passe when the Earl of Huntley and Lord Claud Hamilton with their forces enterprised the burning of Dalkeith Morton who remained there being forewarned of their coming took the fields and entertained a long fight with them though in number he was far inferiour divers on either side were killed 25. of the Earl of Mortons men taken prisoners and of the adverse party Captain Hackerston Neither had the conflict ended so soon if they had not been separated by an accident that happened in the time The Earl of Huntley and Lord Claud had carried with them a great quantity of powder wherewith the souldiers striving to furnish themselves and one of the matches falling amongst the powder it took fire and with a terrible noise overthrew all that stood by Captain Iames Melvil and number of his company were thereby killed in the place many died a few days after of the hurt they received at that time The Earl of Morton by this invasion being taught to look unto himself did hire a band of souldiers that was lately come from Denmark under the command of Captain Michael Weymes or as others write Captain David Weymes The Lords that remained at Edinburgh thinking to intercept him and his company as he crossed the river of Forth imployed Mr. Iames Kircaldy brother to the Lord of Grange who a few days before was come from France with a supply of money and Arms and Capt. Cullen a man well skilled in sea affairs to lie in wait for their landing But the purpose being detected to the Earl of Morton he came upon them at Leth as they were taking Boat so unexpected as 16. of the number were taken prisoners which served to redeem certain of Captain Weymes company that were the next day taken at sea for he himself with the greatest part arrived safely at Leth. The Regent having advertised the Queen of England of those troubles and by the common danger of both the Realms intreated that she should no longer remain a neuter she sent Sir William Drury Marshal of Berwick to try the estate of things the power that the Regent had and the means whereby the Castle of Edinburgh might be recovered and perceiving by the information returned that without her assistance neither could that strength be regained nor the waged souldiers be kept long together because as yet she held it not fit to declare her self for the King she began of new to treat with both parties for a surceasance of arms and that the town of Edinburgh might be freed of the souldiers left patent for the Court of Justice the Captain of the Castle having in the mean time a convenient revenue for guarding the house allowed unto him But this turned to no effect for the conditions for the surceasance required could not be agreed unto by either side for the Regent would have the town of Edinburgh put in the estate wherein it was at the going of the Commissioners to the Court of England in Ianuary preceding and Grange to content him self with such an ordinary garrison as other Keepers of the Castle were accustomed to entertain The other faction was content to leave the town patent but so that neither the Regent nor the Earl of Morton should come unto it And for the surety of the Castle they would have Grange to retain 150. souldiers besides the ordinary guard who should lodge in that part of the town which was nearest unto the same The conditions of either side rejected they of Edinburgh not to be wanting of the authority of a Parliament kept a publick meeting in the town-house the twelfth day of Iune to which day they had indicted a Parliament where a supplication was presented in name of the Queen bearing That it was not unknown how certain of her rebellious subjects having imprisoned her person in the Tower of Lochlevin did hereafter constrain her to make a dimission of the Crown in favours of her son which by the advice of Mr. Iohn Spence of Condy her Advocate she had lawfully revoked albeit otherwise the same could not subsist being done without the consent and advice of the Estates and upon a narrative of her inability and weakness which any of mean judgement may consider to be a meer forgery seeing her weaknesse to govern cannot be esteemed so great as is the weaknesse of an insant lying in the cradle neither can he who hath the present administration of affairs compare with her in any for aptness and ability to govern Therefore was it desired that the Nobility and Estates there convened after they had examined the grounds of the said dimission and found them in reason naught should discern the same to be null in all time coming The supplication once or twice read it was pronounced as followeth The Lords Spiritual and Temporal with the Commissioners of Burghs presently assembled being ripely advised with the supplication presented have by authority of Parliament ordained the said pretended dimission renunciation and overgiving of the Crown by the Queen consequently the Coronation of her son the usurped government of his Regents and all that hath followed thereupon to have been from the beginning null and of no force nor effect for the reasons contained in the said supplication and other considerations notour to the whole Estates And therefore commands all the subjects to acknowledge the Queen for their only Soveraign notwithstanding the said dimission and as it had never been in rerum naturâ Herewith to conciliate the favour of the Church and people by another statute they ordained That none should innovate alter or pervert the form of Religion and ministration of Sacraments presently professed and established within the Realm but that the same should have free course without any let or impediment to be made thereto And therewithall the Superintendents Ministers Exhorters and Readers in Churches were commanded in their publick service to pray for the Queen as their only Soveraign the Prince her son the Councel Nobility and whole body of the Commonwealth These statutes they caused to be proclaimed at the Market Crosse the day following which was the 13th of Iune Sir William Drury finding his labours unprofitable and preparing to depart the Lords of Edinburgh would needs of courtesie bring him on the way The Earl of Morton who lay then at Leth pained with a Cholick hearing that they were in the the fields and taking it to be done for ostentation of their power arose from his bed and putting his men in order marched to Restalrig which way they were to passe Sir William Drury perceiving the companies of Leth in the way and sorry that his Convoy should have given the occasion travelled between them and by his perswasions made them both to retire But then the question fell who should first retire
and for this Sir William proponed that he should stand between the companies and upon a sign to be given by him both should turn at one instant The Earl of Morton accepted the condition lest he should offend the Gentleman who had taken such pains amongst them the others refused giving forth great brags that they should make them leave the fields with shame if they did it not willingly How soon Morton was advertised of the difficulty they made he cried aloud On on we shall see who keeps the fields last and therewith gave so hard a charge upon them as they disordered both the horse and foot The Chase held towards the Watergate where by reason of the skant and narrow passage many were killed and trod to death but the number of prisoner were greater for there were 150. taken amongst whom were the Lord Home and Capt. Iames Cullen the Abbot of Kilwining was killed a Gentleman of good worth and greatly lamented for he was of all that faction esteemed most moderate There died some 50. in all most of them common souldiers and of mean accompt On Mortons side Captain Weymis with one only souldier was slain this conflict happened on Satturday the 28. of Iune 1571. Advertisement hereof sent to the Regent he came the next day to Leth where first order was taken with the prisoners and the Lord Home sent to Tantallan But he stayed not long there for the Lord of Drumlanrig being intercepted by Sir David Spence of Wormston as he was making homewards an exchange was made of the Lord Home with him Captain Cullen a man infamous and who in the last wars had used great cruelty was hanged on a Gibbet The rest upon promise not to serve against the King were dimitted Resolution then was taken for the Regents abode at Leth and the countreys attendance upon him by quarters to keep the adversaries busied and hinder the victualling of the town During which time no day passed without one conflict or other wherein sometimes the Regent and sometimes the Queens party had the better at this time upon a report carried to the Laird of Grange that he was commonly called by those of Leth the Traytor he sent a Trumpet to appeal any one of their side to combat that should dare to affirm so much The Laird of Garleys offering to maintain it time and place were appointed for the sight and when all were expecting the issue of it Grange excused himself by the publick charge he bare saying that it was not thought convenient he should hazard the cause in his own person Notwithstanding of this great heat amongst the parties the Queen of England ceased not to mediate an accord and by a letter to the Marshal dated the 19th of Iuly willed him to move them of new for an abstinence offering to send persons of authority and credit to the borders who should travel to agree them and remove all differences as well concerning the title of the Crown as other private matters and because it was given her to understand that both parties had indicted Parliaments to August next she desired that no proceeding should be made therein either by making of lawes or by denouncing any persons forfeited and that only they should authorize certain persons to meet with her Commissioners for consulting upon the best means to conclude a solid peace There was also a letter of safe conduct sent for any one that Grange would direct unto England for this he had desired Lethington excepted and those that were suspected of the late Kings murther But whether this exception gave the cause or the daily incouragements sent by the French none was directed thither The Regent by his answer of the 27. excused the not yielding to the abstinence which he said without evident prejudice to the Kings cause could not be granted so long as Edinburgh was detained For other points he answered That by himself without the consent of the Nobility and Estates he could say nothing but at their meeting in August her Majesty should receive all reasonable satisfaction The adversary party in the mean time nothing relenting of their course did keep a form of Parliament at Edinburgh the 22. August and though they were but five persons in all present that had any voice in the State to wit two Bishops and three Noblemen they pronounced above 200. persons forfeited The Regent advertising the Queen of England how they had proceeded and what disorder did shew the necessity whereunto they that lived in the Kings obedience were brought and how it concerned him and the rest to prosecute what they had justly intended in regard of their enemies precipitation So in the Parliament kept at Striveling the 28. of the same moneth sentence of forfeiture was pronounced against the Duke of Chatteller ault and his two sons the Abbot of Aberbrothock and Lord Claud the Earl of Huntley the Laird of Grange and some others And for satisfying the Queen of Englands desire the Earl of Morton Marre and Glencarn the Lords Semple Ruthven and Glamis with the Bishop of Orkney the Abbots of Dunfermlin and S. Colmes Inche Sir Iohn Ballendine Justice Clerk and Mr. Iames Mr. Gill Clerk of Register were nominated by the Estates and Commission given or to any four three or two of that number to treat with such as the Queen of England should appoint upon the differences arisen amongst the subjects by occasion of the late troubles and for contracting a League offensive and defensive betwixt the two Realms Of all that did the Regent give notice to the Queen beseeching her not to presse them with any thing that might seem to call the Kings authority in question But before these letters came to her hands he was killed as ye shall hear Lord Claud Hamilton having intelligence given him of the security wherein the Regent and Nobility lived at Striveling and how as in a time of setled peace they did not so much as keep a watch by night took resolution to invade them and was therein greatly incouraged by Cap. George Bell a man born in Striveling one that knew all the passages streets who made offerto put him the company he should bring with him safely in the town This he communicated to the Earl of Huntley Walter Scot of Bacleugh and David Spence of Wormeston who were all content to joyn in the enterprise The second of September they went from Edinburgh a little before Sun-setting accompanied with 200. horse and 300. foot and lest their journey should be suspected they made the rumour go that they went towards Iedburgh to compose a discord fallen out betwixt the town and the Laird of Fernherst To ease the footmen they had taken all the horses which came the day before to the Market and as many as they could otherwise purchase by the way and so marching with a wonderful confidence for by the wayall their discourse
rest well satisfied But a pitiful accident that fell out in the time gave an hinderance to these business The Chancellour going to the Castle to make his report to the King as he returned to his lodging did encounter the Earl of Crawford in the street called commonly the Schoolhouse wynd There had been an old grudge bewixt the two families whereupon the Noblemen passed by others without salutations the street being narrow and the companies of each side great when they were almost parted two base fellowes fell a strugling for the way and by thrusting one at another raised a tumult in the very beginning whereof the Chancellour was killed with the shot of a Pistol It was certainly known that the Noblemen did purpose no harm to others for Crawford did call to his followers to give way to the Chancellour as he on the other side called to give way to the Earl of Crawford yet by this unhappy accident were the old dissensions that had long slept revived and a fresh enmity raised which turned to the great hurt of both The death of the Chancellour was much lamented falling out in the time when the King and countrey stood in most need of his service He had carried himself with much commendation in his place and acquired a great authority most careful was he to have peace conserved both in the countrey and Church and laboured much to have the question of Church policy setled upon which subject he interchanged divers letters with Theodore Beze Some have blamed him of too great curiosity in that matter but his intention certainly was pious and commendable Upon his death the Earl of Athol was preferred to be Chancellour at which the Church did mightily offend as likewise of the admission of the Earls of Cathnes and Eglinton with the Lord Ogilvy upon the Councel who were all thought to be Popishly inclined This being meaned to the King was in some sort satisfied by their promises and subscriptions to the Articles of religion yet the suspicions of their unsoundness still continued And now began they who longed for the change of Mortons government to repent the alteration that was made for howsoever he did not favour the novations in Church policy urged by some Ministers he kept a severe hand over Papists permitting none to enjoy and publick office who was not sincerely affected to the truth The first of April the Castle of Edinburgh was delivered to the Lords Ruthven and Lindesay who were appointed by the King to receive the house and a discharge given to the Earl of Morton of the jewels munition and moveables within the same And the same day Iohn Seaton of Touch and Iohn Cunningham of Drumwhassil received the keys in name of Alexander Areskin Uncle to the Earl of Marre upon a warrant directed to them for that effect The Earl of Morton resolving to live private and to have no more medling in publick affairs retired to Lochlevin where he stayed not long being recalled to Court by this occasion The friends of the house of Marre of whom the principals were the Abbots of Driburgh and Cambuskenneth out of some jealousie they conceived of Alexander Areskin his courses and a fear that the young Nobleman who was then grown to some years might be prejudged of his right in keeping the Castle practised secretly to exclude him and entring one morning with a number of his followers seised upon the keeper of the gate took the keys from him by force and putting him and his men forth placed others in their rooms whom they caused swear fidelity to the Earl of Marre How soon the Councel which then remained at Edinburgh was advertised of this change they prepared to go to Striveling and for their greater security were furnished with some companies of men by the Town of Edinburgh but by letters from the King they were stayed In these letters the King shewed that it was a private dissension only that had happened betwixt the friends of the house of Marre which he would have peaceably composed and therefore desired them to come unto him after a day or two in quiet and sober manner and assist the reconcilement They obeyed and coming to Striveling in a frequent Councel kept the third of May the controversy was in these termes composed That the Earl of Marre being new come to a reasonable age he should attend the Kings person and have the custody of the Castle of Striveling and that the Master his Uncle should remain Captain of the Castle of Edinburgh and when he came to Court have his table kept as before and enjoy the place of a Gentleman of his Majesties chamber The conditions prescrived to the Earl of Marre were That he should guard the Castle attend the Kings person therein and not remove him to any place whatsoever without the knowledge and consent of the Councel That he should not receive any within the house whom he knew not to be well affected to the King admitting an Earl with two only in train a Lord with one and Gentleman single that Mr. George Buchannan and Mr. Peter Young should continue his instructers and no others be admitted without the Councels consent nor any religious exercise kept within the Castle but that which the Parliament had approved For the observing of these Articles the Earls of Athol Angus Argile and Montross with the Lords Ruthven and Lindesay became sureties For the Master his Uncle and his fidelity in keeping the Castle of Edinburgh with the jewels munition and other moveables the Earls of Athol Argile Montross and the Lord Ruthven gave their bond and obligation Some days after this broile the Captain his eldest son called Alexander a youth of great hopes departed this life as it was thought of a grief he conceived for the indignity done to his Father This agreement being made and the Lords being then to return to Edinburgh the King did signify unto them that because the Parliament was indicted to the tenth of Iuly he would before that time call a number of every estate together for the preparing of matters and that all emulations laid aside they might concurre and joyn their counsels for the publick good of the Realm The Diet for this meeting he appointed at Striveling the tenth of Iune the Convention at the time was frequent of the Clergy eight Bishops and as many Abbots were present of the Nobility nine Earls and eleven Lords and divers Commissioners of Burghs The Earl of Morton at the Kings earnest intreaty came also thither and at his coming was admitted upon the Councel having the precedency allowed him with the consent of the rest because of the Regency he had a long time sustained In the first meeting the King after he had given thanks to the whole number for the readinesse they had shewed to convene in that place proponed two things One was touching the Parliament and the place where it should
should not usurp any criminal jurisdiction 3. That they should not vote in Parliament in name of the Church unlesse they had a Commission from the general Assembly 4. That they should not take up for maintaining their ambition the rents which might maintain many Pastors Schooles and poor but content themselves with a reasonable portion for discharging their office 5. That they should not claim the title of temporal Lords nor usurp any Civil jurisdiction whereby they might be withdrawn from their charge 6. That they should not empire over Presbyteries but be subject to the same 7. That they should not usurp the power of Presbyteries nor take upon them to visit any bounds that were not committed to them by the Church Lastly it was provided that if any more corruptions should afterwards be tried the Bishops should agree to have them reformed What troubles hereupon arose both in the Church and Countrey we shall afterwards hear In Glasgow the next spring there happened a little disturbance by this occasion The Magistrates of the City by the earnest dealing of Mr. Andrew Melvil and other Ministers had condescended to demolish the Cathedral and build with the materials thereof some little Churches in other parts for the ease of the Citizens Divers reasons were given for it such as the resort of superstitious people to do their devotion in that place the huge vastnesse of the Church and that the voice of a Preacher could not be heard by the multitudes that convened to Sermon the more commodious service of the people and the removing of that idolatrous monument so they called it which was of all the Cathedrals in the Countrey only left unruined and in a possibility to be repaired To do this work a number of Quarriers Masons and other workmen was conduced and the day assigned when it should take beginning Intimation being given thereof and the workmen by sound of a Drum warned to go unto their work the Crafts of the City in a tumult took Armes swearing with many oathes that he who did cast down the first stone should be buried under it Neither could they be pacified till the workmen were discharged by the Magistrates A complaint was hereupon made and the principals cited before the Councel for insurrection where the King not as then thirteen years of age taking the protection of the Crafts did allow the opposition they had made and inhibited the Ministers for they were the complainers to meddle any more in that businesse saying That too many Churches had been already destroyed and that he would not tolerate more abuses in that kind A little before this time the Abbot of Dunfermlin being returned from England related in Councel the effects of his negotiation and was approved by all For that which he had in Commission touching the Lady Lennox he remitted the answer to the Queens own letters delivered to the King Concerning the disorders fallen out in the Borders the Queen he said did accept the excuse he made in good part saying she was assured that both the King and Councel were offended therewith and that she was content the same should be redressed by the advice of the Wardens on both sides onely desired that in time coming the King would make choice of wise and experienced men inclined to peace and justice to command in those parts As to the League he declared that the Queen had a good inclination unto it holding the same a most sure means to represse the practises of enemies both at home and abroad But in regard he had no warrant to descend into particulars he had abstained from any dealing therein and could not but testify that he saw in her a great care of the King his good Estate and that both he and his message were most kindly accepted The King in this mean time to pacify the Borders which were broken loose chiefly in the West parts gave the Lord Ruthven a Commission of Lieutenandry which he discharged with great commendation and bringing with him the Lord Maxwel who was Warden of the bounds returned to Striveling the twentieth of Ianuary A frequent Councel was there kept for the time wherein the Lord Maxwel being challenged of negligence in his office did answer That he had only the title of a Warden and that the limitations of his charge and the exceptions granted to the Gentlemen of the Countrey made the office needlesse and contemptible But if the King should be pleased to discharge the exceptions and give him a free Commission such as his predecessors had wont to have he should strive to do his best service to his Majesty and the Countrey This answer was not well taken and the Lord Hereis as one known to have greatest experience in these matters being desired to give his opinion delivered the same in a long speech to this purpose Your Majesty said he hath in deliberation a businesse of great importance whereof it were more fitting any man should give his opinion then I by reason of the suspicion I stand in with the present Warden for what I say will be interpreted to proceed of spleen and of a desire to have the charge taken from him and not of any care I take of your Majesties service or the good and benefit of the Countrey yet seeing your Majesty commands me to speak I will rather hazard on such misinterpretings then keep back any thing which I know to be useful and necessary for the errand And what I speak I desire it to be understood of the West marches onely to which my experience chiefly reacheth But because the evils would first be known I will begin at them and then propone the fittest and most easie remedies to my conception Sir a little before the death of your Majesties Noble Grandfather King James the fifth some few disloyal subjects of this Realm fleeing into England did plant themselves in a parcel of waste ground that lies opposite to the West Borders of Scotland and being maintained by the English grew unto such numbers and became so insolent as they made daily incursions upon the Countrey Your Majesties Grandfather did hereupon imploy certain forces against them intending to sack and destroy their houses and make them unable from thenceforth to annoy his subjects But these forces not being rightly governed and lacking the provision that was required for such an enterprise were put to the worse and shamefully discomfited At that time what by ransoming prisoners what by the spoyl they got they gained above one hundred thousand Merks wherewith and by the depredations they have made since that time they are become wealthy have built eight or nine strong houses upon the frontiers of your Realm that no Wardens power is able to force They have joyned in alliance with divers of our own Borders as wickedly disposed as themselves and are so feared that every man is glad of their friendship without which none is thought to have any surety
And could they look for other dealing with the Bishopricks sure it was if the titulars themselves did not find the credit to enjoy them that others of the Laity would have invaded the same as afterwards also they did But to passe this the Earl of Lennox desiring by all means to win the favour of the Church sent to this Assembly Sir William Stewart a brother of Traquaire with a letter to this effect That it was not unknown to them how it had pleased God to bring him since his coming into the countrey to the knowledge of the truth which he esteemed more then all worldly happinesse and that he had made open profession thereof first in S. Giles Church at Edinburgh and afterwards subscribed the confession of faith at Striveling and was yet if any farther was thought needful ready to perform whatsoever should be required assuring them of his best advice in all things tending to God his glory and to the good of the Church requesting together with the assistance of their prayers that he might continue in their good favours But all this could not remove their suspicions of his counterfeiting still he was taxed in publick Sermons and made odious to the people Neither was it long after this assembly dissolved that Iohn Dury one of the Ministers of Edinburgh was called before the Councel and committed in the Castle for certain speeches of that kind uttered by him in Pulpit but upon the supplication of his fellow Ministers and promise of forbearing he was after a short stay in the Castle licenced to return to his charge In October following Mr. Iohn Row Minister of Perth departed this life who for his piety and singular moderation deserveth here to be mentioned In his younger years having applied his mind to letters and taking the degree of a Master in Arts he became a pleader in the Consistory of S. Andrews a Judicatory then much frequented and grew to be so skilled in the Canon law as he was chosen to negotiate the affairs of the Church in the Court of Rome Iulius the third did then govern that See of whom he was well accepted and in possibility to have attained unto some preferment if he would have stayed there for he gained the favour of all to whom he was known and was in special grace with Guido Ascanius Sfortia Cardinal of Sancta Flora who made such account of his skill and knowledge in the lawes that he would have him pass Doctor in the University whereof he was Chancellor After some eight or nine years abode in those parts coming home to visit his countrey and giving account of the affairs wherewith he had been trusted he found the state of the Church quite overturned and the countrey all in tumult by the reformation which was then in hand Thereupon doubting what course then to take and minding to return to Rome he was disswaded by the Prior of S. Andrewes who held him in good esteem and afterwards induced by the perswasion of Iohn Knox to betake himself to the Ministery which he exercised a certain space at ... in Fife till by the General Assembly he was translated to the Town of Perth there he continued unto his death which happened in the year of our Lord 1580. and of his age the 54. a man whilest he lived well respected and much lamented at his death by the people whom he served In Ianuary next Sir Thomas Randolph came Ambassadour from England his errand was to intercede with the King for the Earl of Morton his liberty to which purpose having called to mind the services done by the Nobleman in his Majesties minority and chiefly the diligence he had used in finding out and punishing the murtherers of his Father which by the malice of his adversaries was now laid to his charge he requested in the name of the Queen his Mistris that the Nobleman might be released from his Ward declaring that her Majesty would esteem it a singular kindnesse done unto her and otherwise would take it ill to be denied in so just and reasonable a matter The King after he had heard him patiently made answer That the many good offices he had received from his sister the Queen did tie him to a thankfull requital but in that particular which touched him so nigh the trial of his Fathers murther he knew she would excuse him alwayes because of her intercession he would be the more careful to have the trial rightly carried and as liberty had been given to his adversaries to accuse so the like and greater should be allowed him for his defence The Assembly of the Estates being called at the same time and the Ambassador pretending that his instructions concerned them in a part did in the hearing of them all charge the Earl of Lennox as one that had travelled to divert the Kings mind from keeping friendship with England and done besides many ill offices since his coming to Scotland both to the King and Kingdome For he hath put said he the Kings most faithful subjects and servants from their places brought in others nothing so trusty stirred up the King against the Ministers of Gods word making no other account of them then as of seditious rulers and turbulent persons he hath loosed the Borders said he and made Iustice there to cease and hath practised with forair Princes for the invading of England which he offered to manifest by letters intercepted and brought to the Queen his Mistris But this beyond all measure doth grieve her that a Prince of such hopes joyned in such neerness of blood and for whom she had taken so great care should be thus misled and abused by wicked devices If such a person ought to be tolerated to possess the King alone and rule all things at his pleasure your honours may judge This discourse moved few or none the wiser sort esteeming the letters he produced counterfeit as afterwards also was known This course not prevailing he dealt privately with the friends of Morton and those that he knew envied Lennox his credit to take Armes and procure both Mortons liberty and the banishment of the Earl of Lennox assuring them of aid both of men and monies from the Queen of England and by his perswasions brought the Earls of Argile Montrosse Angus Marre and Glencarn to enter into a confederation for performance both of the one and other But this combination held not long being quickly discovered and broken Of all the number Angus and Marre onely stood firm resolving to hazard all rather then Morton should perish The Queen of England to make good her Ambassadours promise sent down at the same time certain forces to the Borders which troubled the Court a little but was to no purpose only it gave occasion to hasten Mortons trial and execution The King not to be taken unprovided if invasion should be made by England sent forth Proclamations commanding all the subjects to be
sorted to no effect by the contrary courses the two Commissioners took after their coming to the Court of England The King foreseeing the same when they were first imployed had moved Mr. David Lindesay Preacher at Leth a man wise and moderate to accompany them and pacify the contentions which possibly might arise amongst them but their emulations were so great as all he could do scarce served to keep them from open discord Before I enter upon the accidents of the next year the death of Mr. George Buchannan which happened in the end of September must not be passed a man so well deserving of his countrey as none more he was of an excellent wit and learning incomparable born nigh to the Highlands within the Parish of Killern and of the house of Drunmakill his Uncle by the mother called Herriot took care to have him trained up in letters perceiving his inclination to be set that way wherein he profited so much as he went beyond all his instructors Nature it seems having formed him thereunto In the year 1539 being called in question by the Franciscan Friers upon the malice they bare him for some bitter verses written against them and their profession which he did to please King Iames the fifth whom they had in some things offended he was committed as suspected of Lutheranisme but made an escape to France where he lived a long time and became acquainted with many learned men with which that countrey did then abound His paraphrase of the Psalmes a rare work and other Poems he wrote for most part whilest he stayed abroad and for his learning and quick ingenie was admired of all men Returning into Scotland about the year 1560. after he had professed Philosophy some yeares in S. Leonards College within the University of S. Andrews he was chosen to attend the King and bring him up in letters In his age he applied himself to write the Scottish History which he penned with such judgement and eloquence as no countrey can shew a better Only in this is he justly blamed that with the factions of the time and to justify the proceedings of the Noblemen against the Queen he went too farre in depressing the Royal authority of Princes and allowing their controllment by subjects his bitternesse also in writing of the Queen and troubles of the time all wise men have disliked But otherwise no man did merit better of his nation for learning nor thereby did bring to it more glory He died in a great age at Edinburgh and was buried in the common place though worthy to have been laid in marble and have had some Statue erected for his memory But such pompous monuments in his life he was wont to scorne and despise esteeming it a greater credit as it was said of the Roman Cato to have it asked why he doth lack a Statue then to have had one though never so glorious erected The summer following the King found the occasion to free himself of his attenders For being at Falkland and pretending to visit his Uncle the Earl of March who did then reside in the Abbey of S. Andrewes after he had taken some little refreshment he went to take a view of the Castle accompanied with Colonel Stewart Captain of the Guard to whom he had communicated his purpose and having entered into the Castle commanded the gates to be shut and these that followed to be excluded The Earls of Argile Marshal Montross and Rothes came thither the next morning and were all welcomed by the King Of the Noblemen that had waited on him since his restraint at Ruthven only the Earl of Gowry was admitted into the Castle by the Colonels means for he had sometimes followed him as a servant The Earl how soon he came in presence fell on his knees and craving pardon for the fact of Ruthven did humbly submit himself to the Kings mercy who after he had checked him in some few but grave speeches for his ingratitude to the Duke of Lennox accepted him in favour upon condition of a more loyal behaviour in time coming Some few days the King abode in the Castle and in a Councel keptthere the second of Iuly made choice of the Earls of March Argile Gowry Marshal Montrosse and Rothes to remain with him as Noblemen that he held of best judgement most indifferent and freest of faction the rest he commanded to retire to their houses till he should take further order In the same meeting was Colonel Stewarts service approved and a Proclamation ordained to be made charging all the subjects to contain themselves in quietnesse and prohibiting any to come towards Court accompanied with a greater number then was appointed to wit 15. with an Earl as many with a Bishop ten with a Lord and as many with an Abbot or Prior with a Baron six and all these commanded to come in a peaceable manner under great penalties Then the King to shew himself at liberty went to Edinburgh and from thence he went to Falkland then to Perth where he remained some weeks Being there the Earl of Arran by Gowries procurement was brought again to Court after whose coming a Declaration was published by the King to this effect We with advice of the Lords of our Privy Councel having thought expedient to notify unto the world but especially to all our good and loyal subjects our true mind touching the things that fell out in the year past declare the same to be as followeth That is howsoever for preserving of publick quietnesse we did patiently endure the restraint of our person at Ruthven with the secluding of our Counsellors from us and all that ensued thereupon yet did we take it deeply to heart and did account no otherwise of it then a fact most treasonable attending till it should please God to restore us to our former estate and liberty which having now by his goodness obtained to make known our indifferent disposition towards all our good subjects and that we do not seek the harm and ruine of any one whomsoever we have resolved to forgive and forget all offences bygone especially that which was committed in August last and hath been since that time strongly maintained providing the Actors and assisters do shew themselves penitent for the same ask pardon in due time and do not provoke us by their unlawful actions hereafter to remember that attempt Willing all our subjects by the example of this our clemency whereof some already have made proof to discharge all quarrels amongst themselves and not to malice one another for whatsoever cause by gone all which we will have buried in oblivion and to this have ordained publication to be made hereof in all the principal Burghs c. The discontented Lords notwithstanding of this declaration were still convening and making the best provision they could for their own surety For at Arrans hand who had now the disposing of all things they expected no good The
Notwithstanding they all three were convicted and declared guilty of treason doom was only pronounced against Drumwhasill and Mains and they the same day hanged in the publick street of Edinburgh The Gentlemens case was much pitied Mains his case especially Hamilton who made the delation lived after this in a continual fear and abhorred of all men he kept still in the company of Arran unto the alteration of Court at Striveling at which time Iames Iohnston of Westraw pretending a vow that he had made to revenge Mains his death did kill him as he was flying through the Park on the South side of the Town These cruel and rigorous proceedings caused such a generall fear as all familiar society and intercourse of humanity was in a manner left no man knowing to whom he might safely speak or open his mind Arran in the mean time went on drawing into his own hands the whole managing of affairs for he would be sole and supreme over all The Earl of Argile having departed this life the year preceding he was created Chancellour The office of Secretary he gave to Mr. Iohn Metellan Lethingtons son having banished the Abbot of Dunfermlin who formerly possessed the same The Castles of Edinburgh and Striveling he had himself in custody then made himself be chosen Provost of the Town and as if all this had not been enough he was declared General Lieutenant over the whole Kingdom In a word whatsoever he was pleased was done and without him nothing could be done This stirred up great emulation against him in Court The Master of Gray a great favourite at that time did take it disdainfully that every thing should be governed by him Sir Lewis Ballenden Justice Clerk a man of brave spirit did also hardly endure it and Mr. Iohn Metellan though he had followed still from Mortons execution to that time began to fall away and work his own credit those things were cunningly dissembled as among Courtiers and all outward respect given him by those that were plotting his ruine To his felicity nothing as he thought was wanting but the friendship of England this he was advised by the Master of Gray to seek by the Lord Hunsdons means who lay then Governour of Berwick a meeting whereupon wrought betwixt them and at Foulden some three miles from Berwick whither Arran went matters so dressed as upon the assurance of his service to the Queen of England it was promised that the exiled Lords who lay near the borders waiting to raise some stirres should be called to London and upon verification of the conspiracy wherewith Mains and the rest were charged put forth of England In this hope the Master of Gray is sent into England and Commission given him for remanding the fugitive Rebels or if that could not be obtained for removing them further off from the Borders of Scotland more privately he was desired to use all means for winning the Queens favour to the Earl of Arran And for preparing the way to his Legation the Archbishop of S. Andrews was sent some weeks before to inform the Queen of the King his sinccerity in Religion because of the rumour which the Ministers who fled thither had dispersed to the contrary The Queen professing to have received great content by his information recommended to the King above all things constancy in his profession assuring him in that case of her unchangeable friendship The Master of Gray as his coming had favourable acceptance though he was known to be a Catholick Romane and for the point of remanding was answered that she did not think those Gentlemen whom the King called Rebels intended any harm to his person but if the contrary was made to appear they should be suffered to remain in her Kingdomes And for that the King required touching their further remove from the Borders the same was promised and the Lords accordingly called from thence and commanded to stay at Norwich This answer reported to the King by the Master of Gray at his return drew another Legation wherein Sir Lewis Ballenden Justice Clerk was imployed the thing committed to him was the accusation of the banished Lords and verifying against them the conspiracy for which Mains and Drumwhasill had suffered The Lords upon this were brought from Norwich to London and there challenged by the Ambassadour who as appeared insisted with great servour against them But the Master of Glammis answering for the rest made their innocency in that particular to be clearly seen which was heard no lesse willingly by the Judges then delivered by the Speaker Neither was the accuser any worse minded towards them for all the shew he made and at the same time were grounds laid both for their restitution and Arran his subversion the Queen and Councel of England being privy to all and secretly advancing their enterprise Arran in the mean time had assurance given him of the Queens friendship and supposing all things to be right went on in his accustomed manner not caring what enmity he drew upon himself The Earl of Athol the Lord Home and Master of Cassils were committed to prison The first because he refused to divorce from his wife a daughter of the Earl of Gowry and intaile his lands to him the next for that he denied him his part of the lands of Dirleton and the third for denying him a loan of some moneys which it was thought he might spare His last falling out in that kind was with the Lord Maxwel for an excambion of the Barony of Mernis and the lands of Maxwel heath with the Barony of Kinnel which he possessed by the forfeiture of the Hamiltons Maxwel not liking to change his old inheritance with such a new and uncertain purchase excused himselfe and would not hearken to the change but he thinking to force him thereto by some indirect means travelleth with the Lady Iohnston who gave attendance at Court to cause her husband to accept of the Provostry of Dumfreis and moveth the King to write unto the Town to elect Iohnston their Provost for that he being Warden of the West marches would thereby be made more able to keep good order in these parts Maxwel interpreting this to be done as it was to his disgrace at the time of Election convocated his friends and debarring Iohnston from entring the Town procured himself to be continued in the office Hereupon informations were made to the King that there could no quietnesse be expected in these parts unlesse Maxwel his power was curbed Charges were also directed to cause him present certain of the name of Armestrong for whom he was obliged which he not performing was denounced Rebel and Commission given to the Laird Iohnston to pursue him for whose better enabling he had two companies of hired souldiers allowed him under the charge of two Captains Lamby and Cranston Maxwel hearing of these preparations gathered his forces and with a part
delation only it served to discover the falshood of the suborner In December following a Parliament was held at Linlithgow for ratifying the peace and abolishing the memory of things past In this meeting the Ministers who returned in company of the Lords did earnestly urge the repealing of the Acts concluded the year preceding against their discipline which the King did utterly refuse ordaining that none should either publickly declare or privately speak or write in reproach of his Majesties person estate or government as is to be seen in the first Act of the parliament The Ministers offending greatly therewith especially with the Lords who had promised to see these Statutes repealed stirred up one Mr. William Watson in his preaching before the King to complain of the neglect that was made of the Church and condemn the acts above mentioned This young man the Bishop of S. Andrews had placed in Edinburgh after the departing of the Ministers of England and he to this time had carried himself very orderly but now either fearing that his admission by the Bishop should be questioned or to insinuate himself this way in the favours of the Ministers who he thought would rule all matters of Church as they pleased he took the boldnesse to reprove the King to his face This his unseasonable and insolent doing was by all wisemen condemned and he therefore committed to the Castle of Blacknesse Notthelesse another of the same humour called Iames Gibson Minister at that time at Pencaitland usurping the Pulpit at Edinburgh where the sicknesse was somewhat relented fell out in the like impertinent railing saying That Captain James with his Lady Jesabel and William Stewart meaning the Colonel were taken to be the persecutors of the Church but that now it was seen to be the King himself against whom he denounced the curse that fell on Jeroboam That he should die childless and be the last of his race This man called before the Councel confessed the speeches and proudly maintained the same for which he was likewise committed Watson upon promise to amend and behave himself more dutifully was suffered to return to his charge but the businesse with the other lasted to a longer time as we will afterwards hear A few days before this Parliament deceased Mr. Iohn Spottiswood Superintendant of Lothian a sonne of the house of Spottiswood in the Mers within the Barony of Gordon of which Surname it seems his first progenitors were by the armes they have common with the Gordons his Father was killed at Floudon in the unfortunate battel wherein King Iames the fourth died and he left an Orphane of four years old When he was come to some years his friends put him to Schoole in Glasgow where he took the degree of a Master of Arts and having a purpose to study Divinity which he most affected was wholly diverted from following the same by the perfecutions he saw used against those they called hereticks So leaving the countrey he went into England and there falling in familiarity with Archbishop Cranmer was by his means brought to the knowledge of the truth Soon after the death of King Iames the fifth he returned to Scotland and stayed a long time with Alexander Earl of Glencarne who was known to be affected that way In his company he came to be acquainted with Matthew Earl of Lennox and was by him imployed towards Henry the eighth at the time that France did cast him off by the Cardinals dealing as we touched before Matters succeeding to the Earl of Lennox his mind and he setled in England he remained with him some moneths after which longing to visit his friends he returned and being known to Sir Iames Sandylands of Calder a man of great authority in those times he was by him allowed to accept the Parsonage of Calder which fell then void And living sometimes with him sometimes with the Prior of S. Andrews in whose company he went to France at the time of the Queens marriage he made no great stay in any one place till the work of reformation began at which time he took himself to reside in Calder and was how soon those troubles ended chosen Superintendent of the Churches of Lothian Mers and Tiviotdale which by the space of 20. years he governed most wisely his care in teaching planting of Churches reducing people and persons of all sorts into the right way was great and so successful as within the bounds of his charge none was found refractary from the Religion professed In his last days when he saw the Ministers take such liberty as they did and heard of the disorders raised in the Church through that confused parity which men laboured to introduce as likewise the irritations the King received by a sort of foolish Preachers he lamented extremely the case of the Church to those that came to visit him who were not a few and of the better sort he continually foretold That the Ministers by their follies would bring Religion in hazard and as he feared provoke the King to forsake the truth Therefore wished some to be placed in authority over them to keep them in awe for the doctrine said he we profess is good but the old policy was undoubtedly the better God is my witness I lie not And that these were his ordinary speeches some two years before his death many then alive could witnesse He was a man well esteemed for his piety and wisdome loving and beloved of all persons charitable to the poor and careful above all things to give no man offence His happy life was crowned with a blessed death which happened the 5. of December 1585. in the 76. year of his age But to turn to the history the King having setled with the Noblemen was very desirous to be at rest with the Church and for that effect called some of the principal Ministers to a conference wherein certain Articles were agreed for the better ordering of the Ecclesiastical affairs the full determination thereof being remitted to the general Assembly of the Church which was appointed to meet at Edinburgh the tenth of May following In the mean time Maxwel puffed up with the victory at Striveling the praise whereof he ascrived wholly to himself grew so insolent as that the next Christmas taking with him a company of lewd and dissolute persons he went in procession from Dumfreis to the Colledge Church of Lincluden and caused a Masse to be said complaint being made to the King he was brought before the Councel and committed to the Castle of Edinburgh where he remained some moneths This gave occasion to the Proclamations which followed against Priests Jesuits and traffiquing Papists who were all commanded to leave the countrey before a certain day under pain of death Whilest these things were a doing Mr. Andrew Melvil to be revenged of Saint Andrews who had devised as he imagined the Acts made in the parliament 1584. and penned the
crime This was done by the procurement of the Prior of Blantire who had intruded himself in the Parsonage of Glasgow whereof Mr. Archibald had been titular and otherwise then by his restoring could have no right in law to retain it Many were grieved to see Justice in that sort abused for maintaining a facrilegious possession but to have sent him back to England with a Commission to reside there as Ambassador for the King which likewise was done was an errour inexcusable and how he and the Master of Gray who was chiefe man in that led Assise carried themselves in the Queen of Scotlands businesse wherewith they were trusted we will hear in the end of this year In the Isles this Summer there arose great trouble betwixt Mackoneil and Macklain two principal men in those parts Macklain by his education in the continent had learned civility and good manners and living accordingly was in great respect both with his own people and all his neighbours about Mackoneil out of an emulation made many quarrels to the other and in end laid a plot to murther him though he had married his sister which he went about in this manner He sent a message to Macklain offering to visit him at his house and to stay some days providing he would come back and make merry with him in his countrey that the world might see all injuries were forgotten and that they loved one another as brethren and good neighbours ought to do Macklain answered that he should be welcome but for his going back with him they should talk at meeting Mackoneil receiving this answer came the next day and was received very kindly by Macklain Some four or five days he stayed using the fairest shewes of amity that could be wished and being to part homewards intreated Macklain to go with him saying that he would leave his eldest son and a brother-germane pledges for his safety Macklain upon his importunity yielded to go but refused the pledges left he should seem to distrust him and so went taking with him of the trustiest of his kindred and servants some 45. They arrived in Kyntire early in the morning and all that day were welcomed with liberal feasting according to that peoples custome At night when they were gone to rest Mackoneil beset the house wherein Macklain and his people lay with a number of men and called him to come forth and drink he answered that of drink they had too much and that it was then time to rest Yet it is my will said Mackoneil that ye arise and come forth Macklain hearing this began to suspect some bad dealing and dressing himself and his men did open the dore where perceiving a company in Armes and Mackoneil with his sword drawn he asked what the matter was and if he meant to break his faith No faith said he I gave none and must now have an account of you and your friends for the wrong I have received Macklain had taken that night his nephew a little child to bed with him and being put to his defence kept the childe upon his left shoulder in manner of a targe The childe cried for mercy to his Uncle wherewith Mackoneil moved did promise to spare his life providing he would render his weapons and become his prisoner Macklain seeing no better was content and thereupon was conveighed with some keepers to another house All the rest two excepted upon the like promise rendred themselves The two whom he refused to spare defended the dore so desperately as neither he nor his men durst enter whereupon fire was put to the house and they burnt within the same The others that rendered notwithstanding the promise given them were all beheaded in Macklains sight some of them the next morning and the rest the days following Macklain himself had gone the same way but that it happened Mackoneil by a fall from his horse to break his leg by which accident his execution was prolonged In the mean time upon notice given to the King of that barbarous fact an Herauld was sent with a charge to deliver Macklain to the Earl of Argile but this availed not but still he was detained and compelled to yeild vnto most unreasonable conditions before he got his liberty which was no sooner obtained then Macklain to revenge himself fell upon Mackoneils bounds burning and killing man wife and childe without mercy and so took a cruel revenge of the others treachery A little before this trouble in the Isles Hugh Montgomry Earl of Eglington a young Nobleman of good expectation was likewise treacherously killed by certain Cunninghams who envying the Noblemans worth otherwise they could pretend no just quarrel did conspire his death The chief Actors David Cunningham of Robert-land Alexander Cunningham of Aiket and Iohn Cunningham of Corsell who were set on work by the Earl of Glencarne upon promise that he should maintain them which afterwards he disclaimed This unhappy fact did cost much blood and was afterwards honourably revenged by Robert Master of Eglington the Noblemans brother In the moneth of Iune was the league with England concluded which the year preceding had been carefully laboured and by Commissioners sent from both Princes in a meeting at Berwick accorded in this form 1. That both their Majesties finding by the course of the present proceedings in forain parts that divers Princes terming themselves Catholicks and acknowledging the Popes authority were joyned in confederacy for extirpating true Religion not only within their own States and Dominions but also in other Kingdomes left they should seem to be lesse solicitous for the defence thereof then were their enemies who thought to overthrow the same have thought it necessary as well for the preservation of their own persons on whose safety doth the Well of their subjects depend as for the better maintenance of the true ancient Christian Religion which they now professe to joyn and unite themselves in a more strict league then hath been between any Princes their Progenitors 2. That they should labour and procure by their best endevours to draw the Princes professing the same Religion to joyn and concurre with them in the like defence thereof 3. That this league should be offensive and defensive against all that should attempt to disturb the exercise true Religion within their Kingdomes notwithstanding of any former leagues of friendship or amity contracted with the said attemptors 4. That if any Prince or State whatsoever should invade the Realms and Dominions of either of their Majesties or attempt any injury against their persons or subjects upon notice thereof given or received neither of them should yeild aid counsel advice or support directly or indirectly to the said inuader notwithstanding any consanguinity affinity league or treaty made or to be made That in case of invasion they should aid and assist each other in manner and form following That is to say if the Realm of England should be invaded by any forain
bear forth the honour of his Estate and not burthen his subjects with taxations for his support This was the publick pretext and the King made to believe that the reservation of the Prelates houses and precincts with the tithes of the Churches annexed to their benefices would suffice to maintain their dignity and estate But privately to such of the ministery as sought the subversion of Episcopal government it was whispered That this was the only way to undoe the Prelacy for there being no livings to maintain them as in this case there would be little or nothing remaining most of the Bishopricks being founded on temporal lands and having but Churches annexed none would be found to accept those places which also proved true Hopes besides were given to those Ministers that they should have the tithes to use and dispone at their pleasure yet was it not long ere the King did find himself abused the temporalities formerly disponed which were not a few being all in the same Parliament confirmed and those that remained in a short time begged from him and given away to the followers of Court so as nothing was left to benefit or reward any well deserving servant When as he saw this and that the spiritual Estate was by this mean utterly decayed the Priors and Abbots being all turned temporal Lords he did sore forthink the passing of the Act calling it a vile and pernicious Act and recommending to the Prince his son the annulling thereof The Ministers that lookt for restoring the tithes perceiving themselves likewise deluded began also to exclaim and condemn the course howbeit somewhat too late In the same Parliament an Act was made in favour of the small Barons giving them by their Commissioners a voice in Parliament and Conventions with the others Estates The Earl of Crawford did strongly oppose and in name of the Nobility protested against their receiving That which the King intended by this was to free the Barons of their dependence upon Noblemen and have the Estates more particularly informed at their meeting of the abuses in the countrey But so farre was he from obtaining these ends as to the contrary they did work him great businesse in all the ensuing Parliaments Soon after the Estates dissolved the Lord Hunsdon Governour of Berwick sent to intreat presence of the King who yeilded the more willingly because he of all the Nobility of England had medled least in the proceedings against his Mother The Nobleman proposing the same reasons in effect which Walsingham had used in his letter to the Chancellour and laying before the King the danger wherein he might bring the title and right of succession which otherwise was undoubted if he should enter into open warre with England did earnestly beseech him seeing that which was done could not be undone to give place unto necessity promising because it was still beaten into the Kings ears that the execution of his Mother did barre his succession to bring unto him a Declaration under the hands of all the Judges of England that the sentence given against his Mother was no hurt to his right nor could work any prejudice to his succession This conference did break the King very much from his resolution yet the outcries of the countrey were great and their desires so vehement for revenge that he parted with Hunsdon in doubtful terms But when the Declaration of the Judges which he had promised was brought unto him and therewith the sentence given against Davison in the Starre Chamber whereby it appeared that the execution was done without the Queens knowledge he became more appeased and suffered Proclamations to go out inhibiting all that dwelt in the Borders to make incursions upon England as they were begun to do About the same time did Patrick Vaus of Barnbarrough and Mr. Peter Young his Majesties Elemosynar who had bin sent unto Denmark to treat of the marriage return making report of their agreement whereupon conclusion was taken that in the opening of the spring a Nobleman should be directed to accomplish the ceremonies and bring home the young Queen But the death of King Frederick her Father who departed this life in the moneth of April next with other occasions that intervened made the businesse to be delayed certain moneths In the end of the year there came from beyond Sea divers Jesuits and Priests to deal with the Catholick Noblemen for assisting the Spanish Armada which was then preparing to invade England if possibly they should take land in Scotland for their hope was to find the King favourable because of the Queens proceedings against his Mother and that he should joyn his forces with the Spanish for revenge of that wrong But he considering his own danger if strangers should set foot in the Isle and not trusting that the Spaniard would take the pains to conquer for him the Crown of England for that also was proffered refused to give ear unto such motions Mr. Iames Gordon Jesuit and Uncle to the Earl of Huntley had been all the summer before in the countrey and was overseen because of his Nephew whom the King intended to match with the Duke of Lennox his eldest sister neither was he much feared as being a simple man and not deeply learned Mr. Edmond Hay brother to Peter Hay of Megnish a Jesuit also but of greater account and more politick and wise did thereafter arrive pretending that he came to take his farewel of his friends and after him came divers others which made the King give out a Proclamation against the resetters and for apprehending their persons In this Proclamation besides Mr. Iames Gordon and the said Mr. Edmond Hay I find named Mr. Gilbert Brown Abbot of Newbottle Mr. Iohn Drury son natural to George Drury sometimes Abbot of Dunfermling Mr. Alexander Mackwhirry Mr. Iames Cheyn Mr. Alexander Meldrum Mr. William Crichton Mr. Iames Seaton and Mr. Iohn Morton most of these upon their supplications and sureties given to depart in the first ships obtained a protection unto the last of Ianuary which did so offend the Ministers as they did call a number of Noblemen Barons and Commissioners of Burghs to meet at Edinburgh the sixth of February for advising upon some remedy against the present dangers The meeting was frequent and Mr. Robert Bruce by the suffrages of all chosen to preside He had preached ordinarily at Edinburgh a year or somewhat more and was in great respect with all sorts of people but had not entered as yet unto the ministerial function Certain assessors chosen according to the custome the first thing proposed was touching the dangers threatened to Religion and the readiest means for quenching the fire of Papistry kindled through the whole countrey which they were all greatly exhorted to take to heart and to consider what course was best to obviate these dangers And to the end things might be done advisedly the Noblemen were advised to
advancement of the Catholick Kings enterprises tending principally to that end and to another civil cause which had great affinity and conjunction with things at home in regard whereof he said that ever before his conversion he had been in his affection one of his friends and servitours and that Religion which was the greatest and most important cause of the world being now joyned to the other he was become altogether his This he did intreat his Highness to signify to his Catholick Majesty and to assure him that in Scotland he had not a more affectionate servant then himself The like he did professe to the Prince remitting his intentions to be more fully declared by him that should deliver the letters There went other Letters at the same time from the Earls of Huntley Crawford and Morton so did the Lord Maxwel style himself to the King of Spain wherein after they had expressed their great regrate for the disappointment of his preparations they said That if his Naval Army had visited them the same should have found no resistance in Scotland and with the support they would have made given enough to do to England but that it seemed the English Catholicks who had their refuge in Spain out of an unchristian enmity did extenuate the means of the Scottish aid to magnify their own and to have it thought that they were able to do all by themselves Therefore they prayed his Majesty to make such account of the one as he neglected not the other and to serve himself with them both to the ends he did aim at Then remitting to the Declaration of some of his own subjects who had been in those parts the commodity and advantage of landing an Army in Scotland they said That having 6000. men of his own countrey with money to levie as many more they might within six houres of their arrivall be well advanced in England to assist the forces that he should send thither and that the expence bestowed upon ane Galliass would profit more being so imployed then many of them put to Sea could do Withall they advised him not to make any more Armies by Sea but to send a part of his forces to Scotland and another by the back of Ireland toward England and so divide the English forces which should be partly attending at Sea partly employed in Scotland where they should believe all their forces to be landed A further Declaration hereof they remitted to Colonel Semple and so praying God to give him a full accomplishment of all his holy enterprises they took their leave Neither were the Jesuits that lurked in the countrey in this mean time idle of these the principals were Mr. Edmond Hay and Mr. William Creichton who had been prisoners some few moneths in the Tower of London They advising the Popish Lords to attempt somewhat by themselvus which would make the King of Spain more earnest to give succourse a plot was laid to take the King out of the Chancellor and Thesaurers hand by whose counsel they thought he was only ruled and that the pretence should be the neglect of the Nobility and the ill managing of publick affairs This way they hoped to procure the assistance of other Noblemen that were discontented and that no mention being made of Religion the countrey would be more cold in resisting their enterprise The time and place of meeting being condescended on Fintrie undertook to bring the Earle of Montrosse to the party and of Bothwell they held themselves assured as well for the malice he professed to the Queen of England as because in a conference with Bruce the Spanish Agent he had promised if he should assure him of the two Abbeys of Coldingham and Kelso which he possessed he should presently turn to their side To bring about this their purpose the device was that they should meet all at the quarrel holes betwixt Leth and Edinburgh and go from thence to Halirudhouse and settle themselves about the King secluding those two Counsellors or if they found them with the King that they should presently kill them But this device was overthrown by the Kings remaining in Edinburgh who suspecting some plots against the Chancellor did for his security stay in the same lodging with him Bothwel abode at that time in his house at Creichton and kept about him the souldiers that he had conduced pretending a journey to the Isles and the collecting of the Kings duties in those parts Crawford and Arrol came with their friendship to the North Ferry Montross saigned a visit of his Cousen Mr. Iohn Graham at Halyards some six miles from Edinburgh and upon advertisement that the King did keep lodging within the Town advanced no further But Huntley who resided then with his Lady at Dunfermlin presuming much of the Kings affection held on his way and in the evening on which they had appointed to meet came unexpected to the Kings lodging where he found him in conference with the Chancellor The King seeing him brack of his purpose askt whence he came and how he fell to be so late and from that falling into another discourse the Chancellor stept aside to the window Huntley had brought with him the Laird of Kinfawns brother to the Earl of Crawford and some of Arrols men that were esteemed of best courage and action These filling the presence and looking as men that had some purpose in hand the Chancellors friends began to suspect the worst whereupon the Laird of Ormeston Carmichael and the Provost of Linclowden drew nigh and stood by him after the King had talked a while with the Earl he retired to his Cabinet and staying somewhat longer then was expected the Chancellor asking the Usher if it was time of supper he answering that it was more then time then said he Let us go and with those three that kept fast by him passed forth of the Chamber and through the company that stood in the presence all of them making way to his own lodgings which were just above the Kings rooms How soon he came there he sent one to shew the King how unseemly it was to fill the presence with such companies and men armed as they were saying that he would not have permitted the same if he had been alone in the lodging nor have cast himself in such danger Presently the roomes were ushed and the Earl with his company went forth The next morning the King sent for him and at his coming began to examine wherefore he came to Town and why in that manner his answers not satisfying he was committed in the Castle By advertisement given the same day of the companies that were with Crawford and Arroll at the North Ferry and there dissolving the whole purpose was discovered whereupon the Earls of Arroll and Bothwel were cited to appear before the Councel and for their disobedience denounced Rebels Montrosse and Crawford were not called having excused themselves as it was
said and promised to meddle no more in that businesse Huntley upon the like promise after a few dayes obtained his liberty and went into the North. In his going thither whether of purpose or by accident it is uncertain the Earl of Crawford did meet him at Perth where at first they concluded to fortifie the town as a place most convenient for drawing forces together from all quarters but doubting how they should make good the enterprise they gave it over and getting intelligence that the Thesaurer was come to Angus and had appointed a meeting of some friends at the Church of Megle they belayed the wayes and gave him the Chase unto the house of Kiâ—khill where he was received being desired to render upon his refuse fire was cast to the house and he forced to yield himself as he did to his Cousen the Laird of Achindown who kept him some weeks prisoner in the North. The Letters written to the King of Spain and Prince of Parma whereof we made mention and some others from Mr. Bruce directed to the same Prince being about this time intercepted laid open all the practises of these Noblemen which being reported to the Queen of England she wrote to the King a sharp letter wherein complaining of his remisnesse in punishing these treacheries of the entertainment he gave to the Spaniards that had fled into Scotland after their wrack in the Irish Seas she besought him not to overslip such happy occasions as itâ— had pleased God to offer him by revealing these practises as likewise to rid the Realm of those strangers and send them away with speed Hereupon order was taken for their dispatch and ships conduced to transport them unto West-Flanders The Hollanders advertised of their coming sent forth some ships to intercept them and meeting them some two miles from the coast of Flanders took one of the vessels and put to the sword all the Spaniards that were therein the rest ran their vessels on ground where a number seeking to save themselves by swimming were pitifully drowned A Proclamation was likewise renewed against the Jesuits and their ressetters and Mr. Edmond Hay Mr. William Creichton Mr. Robert Bruce and David Graham of Fentry commanded under pain of death to depart the Realm But they contemning the charges did stir up the Earls of Huntley Crawford and Arrol to make open insurrection These three taking Arms and assembling all the forces they could gather came to Aberdene in the beginning of April where they made Proclamations in the Kings name Declaring that he was held captive forced against his mind to use his Nobles more rigorously then he desired requiring all the Lieges to concurre and assist them for setting his person at liberty Their hopes were that Bothwel with his friendship in the South should make the King such businesse as they needed not to fear any suddain pursuit but the King having caused denounce Bothwel and the chief of his followers Rebels resolved to begin with them and leave him to his return So charges being directed to warn all the subjects remaining on the South of Aberdene to accompany the King and they gathering somewhat slowly he made forward with those he had in his company toward the middle of April and having advanced as farre as Cowy a little Village some ten miles off Aberdene was there advertised that the Earls were 3000. strong and marching directly towards him The King nothing dismayed called the Noblemen that were in the Army together and spake cheerfully unto them saying That they had a great deal of advantage of their enemies the better cause and the King on their part Neither oaths nor subscriptions said he can assure these men and if benefits or good deeds could have made them loyal and obedient I have not been sparing to them all Now that I am drawn against my will by their open Rebellion to use force I do assure my self of your fidelity and that you will not forsake me I shall desire you stand no longer then ye see me stand and howbeit I do not think they dare set their faces against me yet I shall pray you to dispose all things in the best order you can This speech he delivered with such a grace as thereby the Noblemen and others that stood by were greatly incouraged every one avowing to do their uttermost for his Majesties honour But a question falling between the Lord Hamilton and the Earl of Angus for leading the Vant-guard was like to have caused some trouble Angus claiming the place by the priviledges granted to his predecessors and the Lord Hamilton alledging that none ought to contend with him in honour because of his proximity to the Royal blood but the King interposing his authority gave the leading of the Vant-guard for that time to the Lord Hamilton reserving the rights and priviledges of the house of Angus whereunto nothing was done at that time should work any prejudice All that night the King did watch himself and kept his Army on foot In the morning early he was advertised that the Rebels were dispersed and gone back for Huntley understanding that the King was resolved to put it to a day declined the fight because of the danger that might come to the Kings person Crawford for the same reason seemed not very bent but Arroll insisting to have gone forward when he saw they would not be moved parted from them at the bridge of Dee in great wrath The King came the same day to Aberdene and calling the Magistrates did threaten them sharply for receiving the Rebels into their City They excused themselves by their weaknesse and the want of power to resist the great forces which was admitted upon promise that they should look better to their town in after times Whilest the King stayed there the Noblemen and Barons of the countrey came in and made offer of their service giving surety not to reset nor intercommune with the Rebels and to concurre with his Majesties Lieutenant when they should be required This done the King returned to Edinburgh for he was then about the directing of the Earl of Marshall to Denmark for the accomplishing of his marriage and bringing home the Queen there went with him Andrew Lord Dingwell Sir Iames Scrymgeour of Dudap Mr. Iohn Sheen Advocate and Mr. George Young Archdeacon of S. Andrewes For defraying the Ambassadours charges a Subsidy of an hundred thousand pounds was granted by the Councel according to a warrant given them in the Parliament 1587. whereof the subjects made ready payment so great was their desire to have the King matched and the royal succession established in his race The enterprise of the Rebels being in this sort defeated the Thesaurer was put to liberty and at his coming to Court did solicit the King in favours of the Earl of Huntley and Crawford who forthinking the attempt they had made did offer to enter their persons in
Master of Glamys Treasurer and his deputy Sir Robert Melvill and by examining their accompts found them liable in such sums to the King as to obtain a Quietus est they were glad to resigne the Treasurer which was bestowed on the Prior of Blantyre Then did they labour the Secretary Sir Richard Cockborne to resigne his place and exchange it with the office of Privie Seal which Blantyre had dimitted in favour of Mr. Iohn Lindesey This was easily effected the gentlemen not liking to contend or fall in question with them The office of the Collectorie resigned by the Provost of Linclowden was given to Mr. Iames Elphinston The President they intended to make Chancellor but to this the King would not condescend knowing how he stood affected in Religion and that his preferment to that chief place would open the mouths of the Ministers and raise a clamour in the Countrey These proceedings did work them much hatred and as is the lot of those that rule in Estates whatsoever was amisse they carried the blame albeit in many things they were innocent The next year begun with a trouble in the borders which was like to have destroyed the peace betwixt the two Realms and arose upon this occasion The Lord Scroope being then Warden of the West-Marches of England and the Laird of Baclugh having the charge of Liddisdale they sent their Deputies to keep a day of Truce for redresse of some ordinary matters The place of meeting was at the Dayholme of Kershop where a small Brook divideth England from Scotland and Liddisdale from Bewcastle There met as Deputie for the Laird of Baclugh Robert Scott of Hayninge and for the Lord Scroope a Gentleman within the West Wardenrie called Mr. Salkeld These two after truce taken and proclaimed as the custome was by sound of Trumpet met friendly and upon mutuall redresse of such wrongs as were then complained of parted in good tearms each of them taking his way homewards Mean while it happened one William Armstrong commonly called Will of Kinmouth to be in company with the Scottish Deputie against whom the English had a quarrell for many wrongs he had committed as he was indeed a notorious thief This man having taken his leave of the Scots Deputie and riding down the River of Liddell on the Scotish side towards his own house was pursued by the English that espied him from the other side of the River and after a chase of three or four miles taken prisoner and brought back to the English Deputie who carried him away to the Castle of Carlile The Laird of Baclugh complaining of the breach of truce which was alwaies taken from the time of meeting unto the next day at sun rising wrote to Mr. Salkeld and craved redresse he excused himself by the absence of the Lord Scroope whereupon Baclugh sent to the Lord Scroope and desired the prisoner might be set at liberty without any bond or condition seeing he was unlawfully taken Scroope answered that he could doe nothing in the matter it having so happened without a direction from the Queen and Councell of England considering the man was such a Malefactor Baclugh loath to inform the King of what was done lest it might have bred some misliking betwixt the Princes dealt with Mr. Bowes the Resident Ambassadour of England for the Prisoners liberty who wrote very seriously to the Lord Scroope in that business advising him to set the man free and not to bring the matter to a further hearing but no answer was returned the matter thereupon was imparted to the King and the Queen of England solicited by Letters to give direction for his liberty yet nothing was obtained which Baclugh perceiving and apprehending both the King and himself as the Kings officer to be touched in honour he resolved to work the Prisoners relief by the best means he could And upon intelligence that the Castle of Carlile wherein the Prisoner was kept was surprisable he imployed some trusty persons to take a view of the Postern-gate and measure the height of the wall which he meant to scale by ladders and if those failed to break through the wall with some iron instruments and force the gates This done so closely as he could he drew together some 200 horse assigning the place of meeting at the Tower of Morton some ten miles from Carlile an hour before sun-set With this company passing the water of Esk about the falling two howers before day he crossed Eden beneath Carlile bridge the water through the rain that had fallen being thick and came to the Sacery a plain under the Castle There making a little halt at the side of a small Bourn which they call Cadage he caused 80 of the company to light from their horses and take the ladders and other instruments which he had prepared with them he himself accompanying them to the foot of the wall caused the ladders to be set to it which proving too short he gave order to use the other instruments for opening the wall nigh the Postern and finding the business like to succeed retired to the rest whom he had left on horse-back for assuring those that entred upon the Castle against any eruption from the Town With some little labour a breach was made for single men to enter and they who first went in brake open the Postern for the rest the watchmen and some few the noise awaked made a little restraint but they were quickly repressed and taken captive after which they passed to the Chamber wherein the Prisoner was kept and having brought him forth sounded a trumpet which was a signall to them without that the enterprise was performed My Lord Scroope and Mr Salkeld were both within the house and to them the Prisoner cried a good night The captives taken in the first encounter were brought to Baclugh who presently returned them to their Master and would not suffer any spoil or booty as they tearm it to be carried away he had straitly forbidden to break open any door but that where the Prisoner was kept though he might have made prey of all the goods within the Castle and taken the Warden himself captive for he would have it seen that he did intend nothing but the reparation of his Majesties honour By this time the Prisoner was brought forth the Town had taken the Alarum the drums were beating the bells ringing and a beacon put on the top of the Castle to give warning to the Countrey Whereupon Baclugh commanded those that entred the Castle and the Prisoner to horse and march again by the Sacery made to the River at the stony bank on the other side whereof certain were assembled to stop his passage but he causing sound the Trumpet took the River day being then broken and they chusing to give him way he retired in order through the Grahams of Esk men at that time of great power and his unfriends and came back into Scotish ground two
his death was much feared He was named Charles and contrary to the expectation of most men grew unto years and strength and survived Prince Henry his elder brother reignes happily this day over these Kingdomes which that he may long doe is the desire and wish of all good subjects In the end of the year Mr. Iohn Craig that had been Minister to the King but through age was compelled to quit the Charge departed this life This man whilest he lived was held in great esteem a great Divine and excellent Preacher of a grave behaviour sincere inclining to no faction and which increased his reputation living honestly without oftentation or desire of outward glory many tossings and troubles he endured in his time for being left young and his Father killed at Flowdon after that he had got an entrance in Letters and passed his course in Philosophy in S. Andrews he went to England and waited as Pedagogue on the Lord Dacres his children the space of two years Warres then arising betwixt the two Kingdomes he returned home and became one of the Dominican Order but had not lived long among them when upon suspicion of heresie he was put in prison Being cleared of that imputation he went back again into England and thinking by the Lord Dacres means to have got a place in Cambridge because that failed he went to France and from thence to Rome There he won such favour with Cardinall Pole as by his recommendation he was received among the Dominicans of Bononia and by them first appointed to instruct the Novices of the Cloyster afterwards when they perceived his diligence and dexterity in businesses he was employed in all their affairs throughout Italy and sent in Commission to Chios an Isle situated in the Ionick sea to redresse things that were amisse amongst those of their Order Therein he discharged himself so well that at his return he was made Rector of the School and thereby had accesse to the Libraries especially to that of the Inquisition where falling on the Institutions of Iohn Calvin he was taken with a great liking thereof and one day conferring with a reverend old man of the Monastery was by him confirmed in the opinion he had taken but withall warned in any case not to utter himself or make his minde known because the times were perilous yet he neglecting the counsell of the aged man and venting his opinions too freely was delated of heresie and being sent to Rome after examination imprisoned nine moneths he lay there in great misery at the end whereof being brought before the Judge of the Inquisition and giving a cleer Confession of his Faith he was condemned to be burnt the next day which was the 19 of August It happened the same night Pope Paul the fourth to depart this life upon the noise of whose death the people came in a tumult to the place where his statue in marble had been erected and pulling it down did for the space of three daies drag the same through the streets and in the end threw it in the River of Tiber. During the tumult all the prisons were broke open the Prisoners set free and among those Mr. Craig had his liberty as he sought to escape for he held it not safe to stay in the City two things happened unto him not unworthy of relation first in the Suburbs as he was passing he did meet a sort of loose men whom they called Banditi one of the company taking him aside demanded if he had been at any time in Bononia He answered that he had been some time there Doe ye not then remember said he that walking on a time in the fields with some young Noblemen there came unto you a poor maimed Souldier entreating some relief Mr. Craig replying that he did not well remember But I doe said he and I am the man to whom ye shewed kindness at that time be not afraid of us ye shall incurre no danger and so conveying him through the Suburbs and shewing what was his safest course he gave him so much money as might make his charge to Bononia for he intended to go thither trusting to finde some kindness with those of his acquaintance yet at his coming he found them look strange and fearing to be of new trapped he slipped away secretly taking his course to Millain By the way another accident befell him which I should scarce relate so incredible it seemeth if to many of good place he himself had not often repeated it as a singular testimony of Gods care of him And this it was when he had travelled some days declining the highways out of fear he came into a forrest a wild and desert place and being sore wearied lay down among some bushes on the side of a little brook to refresh himself lying there pensive and full of thoughts for neither knew he in what part he was nor had he any means to bear him out the way a dog cometh fawning with a purse in his teeth and lays it down before him he stricken with a fear riseth up and construing the same to proceed from Gods favourable providence towards him followed his way till he came to a little village where he met with some that were travelling to Vienne in Austria and changing his intended course went in their company thither Being there and professing himself to be one of the Dominican order he was brought to preach before Maximilian the second who liking the man and his manner of teaching would have retained him if by letters from Pope Pius the third he had not been required to send him back to Rome as one that was condemned for heresie The Emperour not liking to deliver him and on the other part not willing to fall out with the Pope did quietly dimit him with letters of safe conduct So travelling through Germany he came to England and being there informed of the reformation begun at home he returned into Scotland and made offer of his service to the Church but his long dissuetude of the Countrey language which was not to be mervailed considering that he had lived abroad the space of 24 years made him unusefull at first now and then to the learned sort he preached in Latine in the Magdalens Chappell at Edinburgh and in the year 1561 after he had recovered the language was appointed Minister at Halirudhouse The next year he was taken to Edinburgh and served as Collegue with Mr. Knox the space of nine years then by the ordinance of the assembly he was translated to Montross where he continued two years and upon the death of Adam Heriot was removed to Aberdene having the inspection of the Churches of Marre and Buchan committed to his care in the year 1579 he was called to be the Kings Minister and served in that charge till born down with the weight of years he was forced to retire himself after which time forbearing all publick exercises he lived
transporting of any Commodities of Normandy or any parts of France excepting the wine of Burdeaux and as the said persons shall finde the advantage to be so for making the trade equall the custome shall be advanced to the King in England and Scotland And for the part of those that have the advantage and according to the proportion of the said advantage the advancement of the custome to continue no longer then the priviledge having such advantage shall continue and that generally for all other Trade from any parts the English and Scottish subjects each in others Countrey shall have liberty of importation as freely as any of the native subjects themselves having speciall Priviledge Next concerning exportation It is agreed that all such goods as are prohibited and forbidden to English men themselves to be transported forth of England to any forein part the same shall be unlawfull for any Scottish men or any other to transport to any forein Nation beyond sea under the same penalties and forfeitures that the English are subject unto and reciprocally that forth of Scotland no English men shall transport to any forein part the Goods or Commodities that are prohibited in Scotland to Scottish men themselves Nevertheless such Goods and Commodities and Merchandises as are licensed to English men to transport out of England to any forein part the same may be likewise transported by Scottish men thither they certifying their going into forein parts and taking a Cocquet accordingly and paying the ordinary Custome that English men doe pay themselves at the exporting of such Wares The like liberty to be for English men in Scotland As for the Native Commodities which either of the Countreys doe yield and may serve for the use and benefit of the other It is agreed that mutually there may be transported forth of England to Scotland and forth of Scotland to England all such Wares as are either of the growth or handy-work of either of the said realmes without payment of any impost custome or exaction and as freely in all respects as any Wares may be transported either in England from part to part or in Scotland from part to part excepting such particular sorts of Goods and Merchandises as are hereafter mentioned being restrained for the proper and inward use of each Countrey And for that purpose it is declared That both this communication of benefit and participation of the Native Commodities of the one Countrey with the other there shall be specially reserved and excepted the sorts hereafter specified That is to say Wool Sheep Sheepfell Cattell Leather Hides and Linnen yarn which are specially restrained withâ—â— each Countrey not to be transported from the one to the other Excepting also and reserving to the Scottish men their trade of fishing within their Loches Forthes and Bayes within land and in the Seas within fourteen miles of the Coasts of the Realm of Scotland where neither English men nor any Strangers have used to fish And so reciprocally in the point of fishing on the behalf of England All which exceptions and restrictions are not to be understood or mentioned in any sort for a mark or note of separation or disunion but only as matters of policy and conveniency for the severall estate of each Countrey Furthermore it is agreed that all forein Wares to be transported forth of Scotland to England or out of England to Scotland by any of the Kings subjects of either Kingdomes having at their first entry once paid custome in either of the Kingdomes shall not pay outward custome therein afterwards save only inward custome at that Port whereunto they shall be transported But the owner of the Goods or the Factor or Master of the ship shall give bond not to transport the same into any forein part It is also agreed that Scottish men shall not be debarred from being associates unto any English company of Merchants as Merchant-venturers or others upon such conditions as any English man may be admited and so reciprocally for English men in Scotland It is nevertheless agreed by mutuall consent and so to be understood that the mutuall libertie aforesaid of Exportation and Trade in each part from the one to the other shall serve for the inward use only of either Realm and order taken for restraining and prohibiting the transportation of the said Commodities into forein parts and for due punishment of those that shall transgresse in that behalf And for the better assurance and caution herein It is agreed that every Merchant so offending shall forfeit his Goods The Ships wherein the said Goods shall be transported Consiscated The Customers Searchers and other Officers of the Custome whatsoever in case of consent or knowledge on their part to lose their Offices and Goods and their bodies to be imprisoned at his Majesties pleasure Of which escheats and forfeitures two parts shall appertain to his Majesty if the Customs be unfarmed and the third to the Informer and if the Customes be farmed one third of the forfeiture shall belong to his Majesty a third to the farmers of the Customes and the other third to the Informer The triall of the offence to be summar in either Countrey in the Exchequer Chamber by writ sufficient witnesses or oath of partie or before the Justice by Jury or Affise and his Majesties Officers in either Countrey to convene with the Complainers that interest in the pursuit As also for the more surety that there shall be no transportation of such Goods It is agreed that at the shipping of all such Native Commodities there be taken by the Customer of the Port where the Goods or Wares are imbarked a Bond or Obligation subscribed by the Owner of the said Goods and Master of the Ship by the Owner if he be present and in case of his absence by the Master of the Ship and Factor or party that ladeth the same which Bond shall contain a summe of money answerable to the value of the Goods with condition of relieving the party obliged and discharging him of the said Bond in case return be made of a due certificate to the Custome where the Goods were laden from any part within England or Scotland The Certificate to be subscribed and sealed by the Officers of the Customes of the part where the said Goods shall arrive and be unladened or if there be no such Officers there by the Chief Magistrate and Town Clerk of that Harbour or Town under their hand and Seal It is further agreed touching the indifferent fraighting of Comodities either in English or Scotish bottomes that English men and Scotish men fraight and laden their goods each in others Shâ—ps and bottoms indifferently paying only English Scotish custome notwithstanding any contrary laws or prohibitions And that a proposition be made to the Parliament of England for establiâ—ing some good orders for upholding and maintaining the great fishing of England as likewise that a proposition be made
besought his Majesty to accept graciously that which was done and made offer of their best service in perfecting that work as they should be imployed The king professing a great content did specially thank them for reserving his Prerogative in the preferment of men to offices and honours in either kingdome for inequality said he of liberties and priviledges is not the way to effect the union I desire capacity of offices ought to be equall to both people but the moderation of that equality must be left to me neither you to suspect that I will offer any manner of grievance to either of the Countreys or do any thing that may kindle emulation among them considering the desire I have to see you united in a fast and indissolveable amity This said he recommended the prosecution of that business in the severall Parliaments to their fidelity and trust wishing them to lay aside all jealousies needless fears and other worse passions in a matter that so nearly concerned the good and benefit of both kingdomes Some moneths before the King had assumed by virtue of his Prerogative the title of The King of great Britain commanding the same to be used from thenceforth in all Proclamations Missives and Treaties and the names of England and Scotland to be discontinued except in instruments of private parties and where legality of process would not admit the same this same in both kingdomes took ill but his Majesty esteeming those names whereby they had been called no better then names of hostility would needs have the antient name of Britain received and these of Scotland and England abolished In like manner he did prohibite the name of the borders to be used and ordained all places of strength in these parts the houses of Noblemen and Barons excepted to be demolished their Iron gates to be turned into Plow Irons and the inhabitants to betake themselves to labour and the exercises of peace for the same purpose he did break the Garisons at Barwick and Carlile And in memory of the union so happily begun made divers pieces of gold and silver to be coyned upon some whereof were engraven these inscriptions Quae Deus conjunxit nemo separet and Tueatur unita Deus On others Faciam eos in gentem unam and Henricus rosas Regna Iacobus During this conference the Lord Fivie President of the Session supplyed the place of the Scottish Chancellor and was shortly after preferred to the same office by the Earl of Montross his dismission who in stead thereof was made Commissioner and deputy of Scotland during life Secretary Elphingston was chosen President of the Session and all affairs trusted by his Majesty to the Chancellor and him with a speciall direction that they should be assisting to the Church and maintain those whom his Majesty had preferred in the places of Bishops in the same How they answered the trust committed to them in this particular we shall hear But leaving the matter of State let us now see how things went at that time in the Church The generall Assembly that should have kept at Aberdene in Iuly 1604 was continued because of the union to the same moneth in the year following The King being informed of a great preparation that the Ministers made for keeping that meeting and that they intended to call in question all the conclusions taken in former Assemblies for the Episcopall government directed the Commissioners of the Church to desert the Diet and make no indiction of another till he should be advertised They accordingly did intimate his Majesties pleasure to all the Presbyters and therewith as they were desired declare that his Majesty did purpose to call a number of the Bishops and disaffected Ministers to court and for preventing such disorderly meeting hear the differences that were among them debated in his own person The greater part resolved to obey nine Presbyteries onely of Fifty so many there are reckoned in the whole kingdome sent their Commissioners to keep the meeting The chief leaders of this stir was Mr. Iohn Forbes Minister of Awford and Mr. Iohn Welch Minister at Ayre These two having encouragement given them in private by some principally in the State used all means to bring the Ministers together were in expectation of a frequétassembly yet when the day appointed came there convened thirteen only and after some two or three days seven or eight more The names of the Ministers that convened were Mr. Charles Farum Minister of Fraserburgh Mr. Robert Youngson Minister at Clat Mr. Iames Mill Minister at lnnervry Mr. Alexander Straughen Minister at Creich Mr. David Robertson Minister at Feterangus Mr. Robert Rid Minister at Mr. Iames Irwyn Minister at Towch Mr. Iohn Monro Subdean at Rosse Mr. William Forbes Minister at Rinbethock Mr. William Davidson Minister at Ruthven Mr. Thomas Abernethy Minister at Hawick Mr. Iames Grey Minister at Lâ—wdon Mr. Nathaniel Ingly Minister at Cragy Mr. Iames Rosse and Mr. Archbold Blackburn Minister at Aberdene Iohn Rosse Minister at Blare Mr. Iohn Sharpe Minister at Kilmeny Mr. Andrew Duncan Minister at Cruill Mr. Robert Dury Minister at Anstruther with the said Mr. Iohn Forbes and Mr. Iohn Welch Sir Alexander Straiton of Lowreston Commissioner for his Majesty in Church affairs upon a rumour he heard of a meeting to be kept left any imputation of negligence should be laid on him prevented the same And by letters he had obtained from the secret Councell caused discharge the Assembly at the market Crosse of Aberdene they nevertheless convened the next day which being reported to the Commissioner he went to the place and in his Majesties name commanded to dissolve They replying That they were warranted by the laws of the Countrey and that they could not betray the liberties of the Church by giving way to such unlawfull prohibitions He shewed them that the libertie granted for keeping Assemblies could not annull his Majesties power nor denude him of his Prerogative in the continuing or discharging these meetings when he should finde cause For even the Parliament which is the highest Court of the kingdome said he is disposed as the King thinketh meet at his pleasure it is called prorogued dismissed and deserted as he judgeth most convenient And you will not I trust equall your Assemblies to the Parliament of the three Estates Besides you are not a number you want the ordinary Clark neither is the Moderator of the last Assembly present and can do nothing orderly After a little debating they request him to remove till they should del berate among themselves what were best for them to do but he was no sooner gone but then they choose Mr. Ihon Forbes Moderator and that done continued the Assembly to the last day of September thinking by this means to preserve their liberty Lowreston finding himself in this abused caused to execute the letters and denounced them Rebells And left they should make a
of the 20 chap. of the Acts whereby he took occasion to prove out of the Scriptures and Fathers the supremacy of Bishops above Presbyters and to shew the inconveniencies of Parity in the Church with the confusion arising from the same Dr. Buckridge Bishop of Rochester took for his text the Precept of the Apostle Omnis anima c Rom. 13. 1. where falling to speak of the Kings supremacy in causes Ecclesiasticall he did handle that point both soundly and learnedly to the satisfaction of all the hearers only it grieved the Scots Ministers to hear the Pope and Presbyterie so often equalled in their opposition to soveraign Princes Dr. Andrews Bishop of Chichester followed who choosed for his text the first verses of the 10 chapter of Numbers confirming thirdly the power of Kings in Convocating Synods and Councells The fourth was Dr. King Bishop of London he took for his theam the 11 verse of the 8 chapter of Canticles and thereupon discoursing of the Office of Presbyters did prove lay Elders to have no place nor office in the Church and the late device to be without all warrant of Precept or example either in Scripture or in Antiquity This course his Majesty took as conceiving that some of the Ministers should be moved by force of reason to quit their opinions and give place to the truth but that seldome happeneth where the minde is prepossessed with prejudice either against person or matter The first audience was at Hampton the 22 of September at whichâ— besides the Bishops and Ministers from Scotland were present the Earls of Dunbarre Argile Glencarne Sir Thomas Hamilton Advocate and Sir Alexander Straiton Of the English Dr. Montague Dean of the Charpell was only admitted to stay There the King declaring the purpose for which he had called them spake a few words to this effect That having left the Church of Scotland in peace at his parting forth of it he did now hear of great disturbances in the same whereof he desired to understand the true cause and to have their advice how the same might best be removed This being said he the errand in generall for which I have called you I should be glad to hear your opinions touching that meeting at Aberdene where an handfull of Ministers in contempt of my authority and against the discharge given them did assemble and though they were neither a sufficient number nor the accustomed order kept they would take upon them to call it a generall Assembly and have since proudly maintained it by declining my Councell and such other means as they pleased to use The rather I would hear your minds because I am informed that divers Ministers doe justifie that meeting and in their publick preachings commend these brethren as persons distressed which in effect is to proclaim me a tyrant and Persecutor Mr. Iames Melvill answering first said that there was no such discharge given to those Ministers that met at Aberdene as was alledged adjuring Sir Alexander Straiton who was said to have given the charge to declare in his Majesties presence how that matter was carried As to the absence of Moderator and Clerk he said that none of these were essentiall parts of an Assembly and that the Moderator absenting himself of purpose and the Clerk refusing to serve the brethren convened might lawfully create others in their places so as the Ministers having warrant to convene from the word of God and from his Majesties laws as also coming thither by direction of their Presbyteries he could not in his conscience condemne them Well then said the King I shall desire you to answer me three things that I will ask First if it be lawfull to pray publickly for persons convicted by the lawfull Iudge as persons being in distress and aflicted 2 Whether I may not being a Christian King by my authority royall convocate and prorogue and desert for just and necessary causes known to myself any Assemblies or meetings within my Dominions 3 Whether or not may I by my authority-call and convene before me and my Councell whatsoever person or persons Civil or Ecclesiastial for whatsoever offences committed by them in whatsoever place within my Dominions and if I may not take cognition of the offence and give sontence therein And further whether or not are all my subjects being cited to answer before me and my Councell obliged to compeir and acknowledge me or them for judges in these offences Mr. Iames answering said that the questions were weighty and craved a great deliberation wherefore he would humbly entreat his Majesty to grant them a time to conferre and advise together that they might all give one direct answer This desire granted they were commanded to advise and meet together that night and be ready to answer the next day At this meeting the Earls of Salisbury and Northampton with divers of the English Clergy were present The Ministers desiring to have the meeting more private requested the Earl of Dumbarre to move the King therein and that none but Scotsmen should be present fearing as they said that some unseemly words might escape them But this was denied and they warned to speak with that respect which became subjects It was believed that the King should have begun with the questions proponed in the former meeting but his Majesty taking another course required them to declare one by one their judgements touching Aberdene Assembly The Bishops being first askt did all condemn the meeting as turbulent factious and unlawfull Mr. Andrew Melvill then being enquired made answer That he could not condemn the Assembly being a private man that he came into England upon his Majesties letter without any Commission from the Church of Scotland and though he had Commission in dicta causa and not hearing what they could say for themselves he could not give his judgement Sentence he said was given against them in a justice Court how justly he did remit that to the great Judge but for himself he would say as our Saviour did in another case Quis me constituit judicem Mr. Iames Balfoure being next asked Did pray his Majesty not to press him with any answer for that he knew nothing would be well taken that proceeded from his mouth and that Mr. Andrew had answered his minde sufficiently Mr. Iames Melvill without giving a direct answer began to tell That sinceâ— his coming to London he had received divers letters and with them a Petition that should have been presented to the late Parliament in behalf of the warded Ministers which he was desired to offer unto his Majesty and as he thought the Petition would make all their mindes known The King taking the Petition and falling to read the same willed the Advocate to goe on and receive the answer of the rest And as the Advocate was questioning Mr. William Scot and urging him with a distinct answer for he used many circumlocutions according to
the name of the Clergy of Scotland was a warrant sufficient Thus the Bishop consenting the absolution was given him in the Chappell of Lambeth by the Archbishop of Canterbury in this form Whereas 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 wordly respect shall accomplish to satisfie the Christian and charitable end and desire of the other cannot be distastfull 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 considering your desire on this present day 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 excommunication 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 Gospell unto your lives end and then be made partaker of his everlasting kingdome How soon it was known that the Marquis was absolved by the Archbishop of Canterbury there were great exceptions taken by the Church and the same interpreted to be a sort of usurpation whereof the King being advertised in a long letter written to the Archbishop of S. Andrews he did justifie the doing by these reasons First that in absolving the Marquis nothing was intended to the prejudice of the Church of Scotland but what was done was out of a Christian necessity it being needfull that the Marquis should be absolved before he was admitted to the participation of the holy Sacrament Secondly he willed the Church to consider that his absolution at home was onely deferred upon the scruple he made of the Presence of our Saviour in the Sacrament and that upon his confession swearing and subscriving the other points of Religion they themselves had suspended his excommunication the lawfulâ—nesse whereof he would not dispute but remit the same to the Canonists yet the suspension standing it was not much from an absolution Thirdly that the absolution given him in England did necessarily imply an acknowledgement of the authority of the Church of Scotland whereas if the Archbishop of Canterbury had received him to the holy Communion and not first absolved him being excommunicated by the Church of Scotland the contempt and neglect had been a great deal greater Fourthly that the Marquis being come into England and make offer to perform whatsoever should be required of him it was more fit to take him in that disposition then to have delayed it unto his return into Scotland For these reasons he said and especially because all that was done was with a due acknowledgement and reservation of the power and independent authority of the Church of Scotland which the Archbishop of Canterbury had by his own hand testified it was his pleasure that upon the Marquis his return a full form of absolution should be given him or a ratification made of that which was done in England so as neither the Archbishop of Canterbury his doing should be disapproved as unlawfull nor the same so approved as it might seem that the Church of Scotland was inferiour in any sort to that of England and that the Archbishops Letter written to that effect should be put in record and kept as a perpetuall monument for ages to come This Letter directed to the Archbishop of S. Andrews I have thought here meet to be inserted Salutem in Christo. Because I understand that a Generall Assembly is shortly to be held at Aberdene I cannot but esteem it an office of brotherly love to yeild you an accompt of that great action which lately befell us here with the Marquis of Huntley So it was then that upon the coming up of the said Marquis his Majesty sharply entreating him for not giving satisfaction to the Church of Scotland and for a time restraining him from his Royall presence the Marquis resolving to give his Majesty contentment did voluntarily proffer to communicate when and wheresoever his Highness should be pleased whereupon his Majesty being pleased to make known that offer to me it was held fit to strike the iron whilest it was hot and that his great work should be accomplished before his Majesties going to progresse whereunto a good opportunity was offered by the consecration of the Bishop of Chester which was to be in my Chappell of Lambeth the seventh of this moneth at which time a solemn communion was there to be celebrated The only pause was that the Marquis being excommunicated by the Church of Scotland there was in appearance some difficulty how he might be absolved in the Church of England wherewith his Majesty being acquainted who wished that it should not be deferred we grew to this peaceable resolution which I doubt not your Lordship and the rest of our brethren there will interpret to the best for first what was to be performed might be adventured upon as we esteemed out of a brotherly correspondency and unity of affection and not only of any authority for we well know that as the Kingdome of Scotland is a free and absolute Monarchy so the Church of Scotland is entire in it self and independent upon any other Church Secondly we finde by the advice of divers Doctors of the Civil law and men best experienced in things of this nature that the course of Ecclesiasticall proceedings would fairly permit that we might receive to our communion a man excommunicated in another Church if the said person doe declare that he had a purpose hereafter for some time to reside among us which the Lord Marquis did openly professe that he intended and I know his Majesty doth desire it and for my part I rest satisfied that it can bring no prejudice but rather contentment unto you and to that Kingdom Thirdly it pleased God the night before the celebration of the sacrament to send in our brother the Bishop of Cathnes with whom I taking counsel his Lordship resolved me that it was my best way to absolve the Lord Marquis and assured me that it would be well taken by the Bishops and Pastors of the Church of Scotland I leave the report of this to my Lord Cathnes himself who was an eye-witness with what reverence the Marquis did participate of that holy sacrament For all other circumstances I doubt not but you shall be certified of them from his Majesty whose gracious and princely desire is that this bruised reed should not be broken but that so great a personage whose example may doe much good should be cherished and comforted in his coming
King recommended as fit persons were passed by as men suspected and others named who stood worse affected to his Majesties service Another question they made for admitting the Officers of State refusing to admit any but the Chancellor Thesaurer and Clerk of the Rolls This being long and sharply debated was in end agreed by the admission of the whole number Among these Articles proponed the first was of his Majesties authority in causes Ecclesiasticall concerning which it was desired to be enacted That whatsoever conclusion was taken by his Majesty with advice of the Archbishops and Bishops in matters of externall policy the same should have the power and strength of an Ecclesiasticall law The Bishops interceding did humbly intreat that the Article might be better considered for that in making of Ecclesiasticall laws the advice and consent of Presbyters was also required The King replying That he was not against the taking of Ministers their advice and that a competent number of the most grave and learned among them should be called to assist the Bishops but to have matters ruled as they have been in your Generall Assemblies I will never agree for the Bishops must rule the Ministers and the King rule both in matters indifferent and not repugnant to the Word of God So the Article passed in this form That whatsoever his Majesty should determine in the externall government of the Church with the advice of the Archbishops Bishops and a competent number of the Ministery should have the strength of a law This coming to the Ministers ears they began to stirre as if the whole Rites and Ceremonies of England were to be brought upon them without their consents whereupon the Ministers that were in Town were called together and warned to be quiet for that such a generall Act did not lay upon them any bond and if any particular was urged the same should be communicated to them and nothing concluded without their consents It was further told them that there would not be wanting informations enough to stirre them up unto unquietness but they should doe well not to irritate his Majesty whom they knew to be a gracious Prince and one that would hear reason and give way to the same This they did all promise yet upon the suggestion of some discontented people the very next day Mr. William Struthers one of the Ministers of Edinburgh did unhappily break out in his Sermon upon these matters condemning the Rites received in the Church of England and praying God to save Scotland from the same This reported to the King by some of the English Doctors that were his hearers he became greatly incensed But the Ministers not contented with this did the same day in the afternoon tumultuously convene and form a Protestation in the words following Most gracious and dread Soveraign most honourable Lords and remanent Commissioners of this present Parliament We the Ministers of Christs evangel being here convened from all the parts of this your Majesties Kingdome doe in all reverence and submission intreat your Majesties and honours patient and favourable hearing of this our reasonable and humble supplication And first it will please your Highness honorable Estates presently convened to be informed that we are here a number of the Ministery out of all the parts of the Kingdome and that the Bishops have protested to a great many of us since our coming that nothing should be agreed nor consented unto by them in this present Parliament in matters concerning the discipline order of the Church without our knowledge and advice affirming that neither we nor they have any power to consent to any novation or smallest change of the order established without the advice of the Generall Assembly whereupon we resting in security have received a sudden report of an Article to passe for a law in the Parliament decerning and declaring that your Majesty with the advice of the Archbishops and Bishops and such a competent number of the Ministery as your Majesty out of your wisdome should think expedient shall in all time coming have full power to advise and conclude all matters of decency and which any way may concern the policy of the Church And that such conclusions shall have the strength and power of laws Ecclesiasticall wherein it will please your Majesty and honourable Estates to hear our own just griefs and to consider our reasonable desires and not to put us your Majesties humble subjects to that poor and simple part of protestation Which if remedy be not provided we shall be forced to use for the freedome of our Church and discharge of our consciences We then first plead our reformation and that the purity of our Church in doctrine ministration of the sacraments discipline and all convenient order with the best reformed Churches in Europe hath been acknowledged rather as a pattern to be followed of others then that we should seek our reformation from those that never attained to that perfection which we by the mercy of God this long time past have enjoyed under your Highness protection Next we plead the liberty of our Church which by the laws of your Majesties Kingdome and divers Acts of Parliament is established with power of publick meetings and annuall Assemblies and allowance to make Canons and constitutions such as may serve for the comely order thereof all which by this conclusion that is intended will be utterly overthrown Thirdly we plead for the peace and tranquillity of our Church that being nearest the Divine and Apostolicall institution hath lived without schisme and rent in the self and by introduction of any novelty against order may be miserably divided and so our peace broken Fourthly we have been at divers times sufficiently secured from all suspicions of innovation and specially by your Majesties Letter sent down this last Winter to take away all fear of any alteration which might arise upon your Majesties lovingly intended journey which Letter by your Majesties speciall will and direction of your Highness Councell was intimated in pulpits as also by that Proclamation given out the 26 of September 1616 when rumours of an intended conformity with the Church of England were dispersed whereby your Majesty sufficiently avoided all such suspicion and setled the hearts of honest men in a confidence that no such thing should be attempted These and many other reasons have moved us in all reverence by this our humble supplication to entreat your Highness and honourable Estates not to suffer the aforenamed Article or any other prejudiciall to our former liberties to passe at this time to the grief of this poor Church that the universall hope of thousands in this land who rejoiced at your Majesties happy arrivall be not turned into mourning wherein as we we are earnest supplicants to God to incline your Majesties heart this way as the most expedient for the honour of God and well of your subjects so if we shall be frustrated of this our
But agreeth with the Iewes 13 Augustine the Monk endevoureth to perswade the Saxons in Britain to observe Easter according to the Roman account but they refuse 12 A dispute held in England in Yorkshire concerning the computation of Easter between a Scottishman a Bishop and the abettors of the Roman Church 15 A Member of the Scottish Church excommunicated is absolved by the Archbishop of Canterbury with the content of the Church of Scotland 527 The tryall of the Earl of Somerset 525 The Earl of Essex his death and the cause 463 Edinburgh Castle surrendred by the Queens party 271 The Town having maintained tumults against the King submit themselves 432 Elizabeth Queen of England is styled an Atheist by the Ministers of Scotland in their sermons 419 423 The marriage of the Lady Elizabeth with the Palsgrave 19 Excommunication of persons of capitall crimes if they are fugitives forbidden 517 A Member of the Scottish Church excommunicated is absolved by the Archbishop of Canterbury to the content of the Scottish Ministers 527 F FAst one fasteth fourty daies without any the least kinde of food another time thirty daies 69 Francis II of France husband to Mary Stewart Queen of Scots dâ—eth 69 H PRince Henry baptized 406 His death 510 The death of Iames Marquiss of Hamilton 546 I IReland Patrick a Scot converteth that Nation 8 Ignorance Some Priests so ignorant as that they thought the New Testament written by Luther 76 Iames VI. born 196 Baptized according to the rites of the Roman Church 197 His Father attempted by poyson ibid. His Father murthered by Bothwell 200 Crowned in the Church of Striveling being thirteen moneths old Some Lords rebel against him at Edinb 287 He is offended at some proceedings of the Church and does not favour them much 308 Surprised by a combination of Nobles and sequestred from the Duke of Lennox 321 Temporiseth with the Church 322 He appointeth a feast for the entertainment of the French Ambassador the Ministers to cross him on the same day appoint a fast 322 A promise made in time of restraint he judgeth not obliging 327 He giveth clear testimony of the care of the Church 347 A letter written by Walsingham to perswade the King to pass by the revenge of his Mothers death 359 An offer made by an English Ambassador and accordingly done to bring a Declaration signed by all the Judges in England to shew that the sentence against his Mother did not invalidate his right 365 Married to the King of Denmarks daughter 377 Goeth in person to Norway 377 Giveth directions for government in his absence 378 Bringeth his Queen to Scotland 380 Bothwells plot to surprise him discovered and prevented 386 He is surprised by Bothwell 394 He writeth an Epitaph on the death of his Chancellour 411 His just complaint against the petulancy of Churchmen 419 Publisheth his 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 455 Gowry's conspiracy against him 457 A letter written to him from the Councel and Nobility of England 473 Crowned at Westminster 478 He would never hang Priests of the Roman profession onely for their Religion 523 He foretelleth his own death therefore not likely to be poisoned 546 He died of an Hemitritaea a disease very dangerous for the aged 546 A Witch had not power to kill him 383 K KIngs Iohn Knox his opinion concerning deposing them for ill-government 137 Reasons why they are not to be punished by their Subjects ibid. The Scots cannot resolve to arraign their Queen 214 The Assembly of the Church protest against the Kings judging in Causes Ecclesiastical the Councel of State reject their Protestation 318 A Minister of Scotland affirmeth in his Sermon that it is lawful for Subjects to take arms against their King 430 Rebellion of the Subjects if they succeed not advance the Soveraignty 432 Conspiracies against Princes not thought true unless they are slain 460 Colman a Scottish Bishop disswadeth the Nobility of Scotland from deposing their King 19 Knox his death 266 Proved that he was not the Author of the book published in his name under the title of the History of Scotland 267 A form of Church policy drawn up by him 152. L LAws Malcolm repealeth that wicked Law of Eugenius III which appointed the first night of the new married woman to belong to the Lord of the ground 29 Lollards Articles of Religion taught by them 61 The Earl of Lennox Grandfather to Iames VI and Regent slain in fight 256 The Lord Aubigny Earl and after Duke of Lennox embraceth the Protestant faith 308 He dieth in the Protestant Religion 324 M JOhn Maior Hector Boeth Gilbert Crab William Gregory learned men lived in Scotland A. D. 1539. 68 The Earl of Murray Regent of Scotland murthered 233 Earl of Marre Regent of Scotland dieth a natural death 264 The Earl of Morton then Regent his covetousness and sacrilege 271 Executed upon suspicion that he consented to the murther of the Father of Iames VI 314 Rabanus Maurus born in Scotland 22 O OAths The Catholicks are dispensed from Rome to profess or swear against their Religion so as in minde they continued firm and laboured secretly in promoting the Roman faith 308 Ordination One Bruce being to be made Minister of a Parish in Edinburgh refuseth Ordination 451 Had preached many years before without Ordination ibid. Ordination by Presbyters in case of necessity that it is lawful 514 The death of Sir Thomas Overbury 514 P PRiests called Culdees and why 4 Pope his league not suffered to enter into Scotland 43 The Clergy will acknowledge no Statute imposed upon them by the Legate 45 A Collection demanded by the Pope denied and the Legate not permitted to enter the Realm ibid. VRbane IV. ordained that every Bishop and Abbat elect of Scotland should travail to Rome for consecration 46 A Councel held at Lyons by the Pope the Acts thereof ibid. The King of Scotland refuseth to stand to the Popes judgement 50 One thousand two hundred Monks refuse to receive the rites of Rome and are all slain 12 Prayer A great question arose among the Churchmen whether the Pater noster were to be said to the Saints or God only Protestants the Queen Regent Dowager of Iames V. dieth in the faith of Protestants 146 The Queen of England contriveth a counter-league against the Holy league made in France for the extirpation of Protestants 389 The Articles of that League 349 Election of Ministers by the People discharged by authority in Scotland 545 The same Portent interpreted to contrary significations 542 Presbyters excluded from intermedling with the making of Ecclesiastical laws in Scotland 531 Ordination by them in case of necessity is lawfull 514 The marriage of the Palsgrave with the Lady Elizabeth 519 The history of the Powder-treason 491 This conspiracy carried on in secrecy a whole year 492 R ROme one thousand two hundred Monks refuse to receive the rites of the Roman Church and are all slain 12 A ploâ—to reintroduce the Roman religion 390
Church Catholick where it was before the Reformation by Edward Boughen D. D. in 4o. An Advertisement to the Jury-men of England touching Witches written by the Author of the Observations upon Mr. Hobbs Leviathan in 4o. New Episcopacy-and Presbytery considered by Hen. Fern. D. D. in 4o. A Sermon preached at the Isle of Wight before his Majesty by Hen. Fern D. D. in 4o. The Commoners Liberty or the English-mans Birth-right in 4o. An Expedient for composing Differences in Religion in 4o. A Treatise of self-denial in 4o. by a conceal'd Author The holy Life and Death of the late Vi-countesse Falkland in 12º Certain Considerations of present Concernment Touching the Reformed Church of England by H Fern in 12o. New Englands Faithfull Reprover and Monitour in 12o. by Io. Allington Newly published The grand Conspiracy of the Members against the Mind of Jewes against their King As it hath been delivered in four Sermons by Iohn Allington B. D. in 12o. The Quakers wilde questions objected against the Ministers of the Gospel and many sacred Acts and Offices of Religion with brief Answers thereunto Together with a Discourse of the holy Spirit his workings and impressions on the souls of men by R. Sherlock B. D. in 8o. White Salt or a sober correction of a mad world By Iohn Sherman B. D. a discontinuer in 12o. The Marching of the Magistrates Authority and the Christians true liberty in matters of Religion By William Lyford B. D. and late Minister of Sherborn in Dors. in 4o. An. 1601. An. 1603. An. 1610. An. 1615. An. 1616. The Assembly of Perth 1618. An. 1633. An. 1635. An. 1639. The Preface Anno 203. Scotland converted to the faith of Christ Anno 203. Boeth li. 6. Buch. li. 4. Lâ—st l. 3. The Planters of Christianity in this Kingdom Reasons why Pope Victor could not be the worker of our conversion An. 277. Buchan li. 4. Severus his expedition into Britain King Cratilinth expulses the Druides A short description of the Druides Diocletian his persecution Sodorense fanum Boeth li. 6. An. 360. Amphibalus the first Bishop of Man Culdees why so called Boeth l. 6. Bishops in Scotland at the first planting of the faith Boeth ibidem Maximus the Roman prefect practiseth with the Picts against the Scots Bouch. li. 6. Buchan li. 5. The Scots exiled Buchan li. 4. An. 370. Regulus arrives into Albion Hergustus King of the Picts gave his Palace to Regulus An. 404. King Fergus came to the Firth of Murâ—ray Boeth l. 7. He repaired the Churches King Fergus vanquished and slain Boeth li. 7. Greem battereth the wall of Severus Buch. l. 5. Eugenius assisted by the Picts overcometh the Britains Anno 450. St. Ninian St. Augustin de civitate Dei li. 22. cap. 10. Beda his Ecclesiast Hist. li. 3. cap. 4. Palladius sent into Scotland by Pope Celestine Beda li. 1. c. 13. Buch. li. 5. Buch. his opinion refelled Monks not reckoned among the Clergy Servanus and Tervanus ordained Bishops by Palladius Boeth li. 7. Hist. li. 4. An. 491. St. Patrick the converter of Ireland Baâ— cent 1. Bacon to 5. in Anno 431. Sect. 191. Camden in the description of Ireland Ioh. Biâ—sans in descriptione Britanmae Sedulius educated under Hildebert a Bishop Bal. cent 14. Lesl. li. 4. Anno 494. Gratin decret par distruct 15 Sedulius proved to be a Scottish man against the Irish writers An. 500. Scotland a Colonie deduced from Ireland Congallus an excellent Prince Buch. in vita Congalli Tithes declared to appertain to the Church A law for the safety of Church-men Columba returneth into Scotland Scotichron li. 3. Boeth li. 9. Monks placed in Monasteries Columba sent to bring Aidanus the heir of the Crown from Ireland Congallus dieth to whom his brother succeedeth An. 603. Boeth li. 9. Buchan l. 5. Lesl. li. 4. Aidanus crowned King Columba retired to the Isle Iona. Aidanus maketh warre against the Picts Aidanus rebuked by Columba Aidanus forced to take up Arms against the Picts The Picts overcome and Aidanus getteth the victory Columba dieth in the year of our Lord 603. Boeth li. 9. Kentigern or St. Mungo An. 500. Boeth li. 9. Mongah in the Norish tongue signifieth dear fâ—â—â—nd Kentigern his journey to Wales Kentigern his austere life and death Baldred and Convallus were Kentigerns disciples Boeth li. 9. Lesl. li. 4. Convallanus Governour of the Monastery in Iona. Boeth ibidem Brigida An. 518. Boeth li. 9. Brigida dieth at Abernetâ—â—â—â—y â—y Anno 600. Augustine the Monk sent into Britain Beda l. 3. c. 2. The Britains refuse to conform themselves to the rites of Rome A letter from the Bishops of England to the Scottish Church Beda l. 2. c. 4. Honorius writeth to the Church of Scotland Beda l. 2. c. 19. A letter from the Clergy of Rome to the Church of Scotland Beda ibidem Beda his judgement of the letter Buchan l. 5. Boeth li. 9. Lesl. li. 4. Buchan l. 9. Beda l. 3. c. 5. Cormanus sent into Northumberland Aidaus sent for the conversion of Northumberland Aidanus ordained Bishop and sent into Northumberland The vertues of King Oswald An. 651. The commendation of the Bishop Aidanus Finnanus succeeded Aidanus Finnan dieth to whom Colman succeeded The controversie about Easter wakened A dispute for the time of Easter Osâ—py King of Nuâ—thimbers his speech to the diâ—puters Colman his reasons for the observing of Easter after the Scottish manner â—ilfrid his repâ—y to Colman Colman interrupteth wilfrid for calling their observation foolish Wilfrid excusing himself persisteth in his reply Colman his answer Wilfrid his reply The King determineth the question Colman resigneth his place Colman returneth into Scotland Buchan l. 5. A declining in the Church by the dissensions that grew in the same Godwin de Praesulibus Angliae Buchan lib. 5. Adamannus a Bishop An. 689. Chilianus Baron in anâ—â— 689. Baron in anno 632. Wiro and Plechelmus consecrated Bishops by Pope Honorius An. 697. A Synod at Vtrect Bonifacius an Italian came into Scotland Bonifacius made Arch-Bishop of Mentz The story of Fiacre Bal. cent 14. The Universities of Paris and Pavia founded by Scottish men Alcuin Rabanus Maurus Maidulphus Scotus Camdens Antiquities An. 800. Warres renued between the Scots and the Picts Religious houses founded by Prince Gulielm Boeth li. 10. Hungus King of Picts supplyed by Achaius King of Scots Hungus his thankfulnesse for his victory The Scots claim the Kingdom of the Picts Kenneth utteâ—ly overthroweth the Picts Boeth li. 10. Lese l. 5. The succession of Bishops in this Church after the subversion of the Picts Adrian the first in this accompt killed by the Danes An. 872. A convention at Scone for reformation of the State An. 860. Statutes for redressing abuses An. 904. Scon. l. 2. in Catalogo Eipis S. Andreae King Gregoâ—y his favours to the Church Boeth l. 10. Io. Scotus called Aerigena Boeth l. 10. Lesl l. 5. King Constantine the third forsaketh the publick life Paslet l. 6. c. 27. An. 977. Camd
ant Boeth l. 11. Buchan l. 6. King Kenneth murthered in the Castle of Fettercarne An. 1004. Buchan l. â— Scon. li. in Catalog Episc. S. Andrews Buchan l. 6. Boeth l. 11. The Danes defeat at Muâ—tâ—lack in Angus by Malcolm An Episcopal See at Murthlack Boeth l. 11. Past. l. 4. c. 44. Buchan l. 6. An. 1034. Buchan l. 7. Boeth l. 12. An. 1057. A discourse between Mackduffe and Malcolme Boeth l. 12. Pasâ— l. 5. c. 3 4. Scotichron l 7. Buchan l. 7. Dioces appointed by the Bishops Cathnes and Murray erected by King Malcolme the third The History of Queen Margaret and her marriage with King Malcolâ— King Malcolm and the Conquerour at Warre Peace concluded amongst them The contrary disposition of King Malcolm and William Rufus Bishop Gregorius dieth Turgot elected in his place Buchan l. 7. An. 1117. The vertues of King Malcolm the third The praise of Queen Margaret Her issue by King Malcolm Buchan l. 7. Sa. Daniel in his Collection Scon. lib. in Catalog Episâ— S. Andrews An. 1098. Marianus King Edgar erected the Abbey of Cauldingham in a Priory King Alexander the Fierce seeketh advice of the Archbishop of canterbury The Archbishop of Canterbury and York at difference Archbishop of Canterbury his letter to king Alexander Eadmerus hist. l. 5. 6. King Alexander offended that Eadmerus would not be consecrated in Scotland He is invested in the Bishoprick by the intercession of the Noblemen Thurstan the Archbishop of York opposes the consecration of Eadmerus An. 1124. Eadmerus departeth into England upon the Kings dislike He purgeth himself to the Archbishop Robert Prior of Scone elected Bishop of Saint Andrews and consecrated at York The Abbey of Scone and Saint Columbe founded Cursus Apri given to Saint Andrews King David succeeded to Alexander and his beneficence to the Church King David taxed of profusion His magnificence vindicate from these â—spersions An. 1159. Buch. l. 7. The faults of person ought not to be cast on things abused Whence the superflous enriching of Abbeys proceed Buch. l. 7. Bishop Robert dieth Richardus de sancto Victore with David a Presbyter He citeth the Scottish Clergy to Norham The Clergy by some Delegates appeal to Rome to the Pope Pope Alexander the third giveth sentence for Scotland Angelramus elected Bishop of Glasgow King Malcolm the fourth his death A Bishop placed at Carlile by the Archbishop of York Buch. l. 7. An. 1165. Boeth l. 13. Buch. l. 7. King William secketh to have Northumberland restored King William surprised at Anwick Boeth l. 13. Hollinshed History of Scotland An. 1175. Buch. l. 16. 7. Sa. Daniel A meeting of the Scotish Clergy at Northampton Gilbertus Canonicus his reply to the Legate Boeth ibidem Scon. l. 8. c. 16. Boeth l. 13. An. 1178. Scon. l. 8. The Archdeacon of S. Andrews elected Bishop The King displeased maketh his Chaplain to be choosed of new The Archdeacon appealeth to Rome His journey thither Pope Lucius his Letter to the King The Pope purposeth to interdict the Realm is stayed by the entreaty of the Archdeacon The Bishop of Dunkeld dieth and the Bishoprick offered by the King to the Archdeacon An. 1188. The Archbishop accepted Dunkeld Bishop Hugo dieth The Kings of England and France prepare to recover the Holy land Sa. Daniel Buchan l. 7. Sa. Daniel Lesl. l. 6. King of Scots his kindnesse to the King of England Boeth l. 13. The Abbey of lundors founded King william goeth to England to congratulate King Richard his return The Bishop of Cathnes cruelly used by the Earl of the countrey The King punished it severely Buchan l. 7. Pope Innocent the third his thanks to the King for the justice of execution A Convocation of the Clergy at Perth Boeth l. 13. Lesl. l. 8. Saturday from 12. of the clock to be kept as holy An. 1189. Bishop Roger succeedeth to Hugo after his death Roger consecrated in the year 1198. dieth in Iuly 1202. William Malvoisin translated from Glasgow to S. Andrewes Scon. l. 8. Pasl l. 6. c. 27. King William dieth his pious devotion Boeth l. 13. Buchan l. 7. An. 1214. King Alexander the second Crowned at Scone Boeth l. 7. Buchan l. 13. The Kingdom interdicted by the Popes Legate Scon. l. c. 33. The priviledge of the white monks suspended Peace concluded betwixt the King and Henry the third of England The Kingdom of Scotland absolved from the interdiction Boeth l. 13. Buchan l. 7. The course taken with the inferiour Churchmen Scon. l. 9. c. 32. The Scots Clergy complain of the Legates extortions An. 1219. Buchan l. 7. Scon. ibideâ— The King offended with the contributions of Rome The Popes Legate discharged from entering into Scotland Orders of S. Dominick and Francis brought into Scotland Scon. l. 10. c. â— Foundation of religious houses Gilbert Earl of Stratherne his donations to the Church Scon. l. 8. c. 73. An. 1238. David the Kings Chamberlain elected Bishop upon Malvoisin his death King Alexander the second buried at Melrosse His Epitaph King Alexander the third crowned Sa Daniel in the life of Henry the third Scon l. 10. c. 8. Abell Archdeacon of S. Andrews elected Bishop after David Abell his rigour exercised upon the Chanons An. 1255. Gamelinus elected Bishop upon Abels death Pasl l. 6. Boeth l. 13. Buch. l. 7. The Court displeased with the Bishop A Legate sent from Rome Scon. l. 2. c. 24. Boeth l. 13. Buch. l. 7. Boeth l. 13. The Carmelite Friers received in Scotland Crosse-Church at Peblis erected Boeth l. 13. Scon. l. 30. An. 1271. William Wishart elected Bishop upon Gamelinus his death Scon. l. 10. c. 30. Pasl l. 6. Bishops attending a Rome for Consecration A Councel at Lyons Scon. l. 10. c. 34. A supply for the holy Warre The Acts of the Councel All the Acts overturned by dispensations Scon. l. 10. c. 35. An. 1279. Bishop Wishart dieth Scon. l. 10. c. 31. Michael Scot and Tho. Lermouth Buchan l. 13. Lesl. l. 6. Boeth l. 13. William Fraser elected Bishop after Wishart Buchan l. 7. The death of of King Alexander the third and his children Two Knights of Fife directed to the maid of Norway whom they found dead Boeth l. 14. Buchan l. 8. Competitors for the Crown Scon. l. 11. c. 2. King Edward his speech at the meeting in Norham Robert Bishop of Glasgow his reply Scon. l. 11. c. 10. The right of the Crown found to lie betwixt Baliol and Bruce Buchan l. 8. A meeting at Berwick for determinating the right Sa. Daniel Boeth l. 14. Bruce refuseth the offer which Baliol embraceth Baliol hated for swearing subjection to the King of England Buchan l. 8. Baliol breaketh with England Ambassadors from France and England Boeth l. 14. Scon. l. 11. c. 18. Baliol cited to Newcastle Scotland invaded by King Edward Buchan l. 8. Boeth l. 14. The Bishops of Glasgow and Isles sent prisoners to London A message sent to the Pope from the Clergy Scon. l. 11. c. 36. The Popes
letters to King Edward and the Archbishop of Canterbury An. 1300. King Edward his answer William Wallace S. Daniel Boeth l. 14. Buch. l. 8. A Parliament S. Andrews King Edward his course for â—â—tirpating the Scots Scon. Catal. Episc. S. Andreâ— Pasl l. â— William Lamberton preferred to S. Andrewes upon the death of Fraser Pasl l. 6. c. 2. The Culdees and Chanons strife The dissolution of the Templars Paulus Emilius Plessis B. Lamberton loseth K. Edwards favour Buchan l. 8. Lesl. l. 7. Boâ—th l. 14. The Bishop committed to Prison Robert Bruce crowned King Boeth l. 14. Buchan l. 8. The Popes Legate sent to disswade the King from troubling England Boeth l. 14. The King his answer to the Legate The Kingdom interdicted Buch. l. 8. A Letter sent by the Nobles and Barons of Scotland to the Pope Scon. l. 13. c. 1. The Interdiction released The English sue for peace The conditions of the peace An. 1328. King Robert Bruce dieth B. Lamberton his death and vertues Scon. l. in Catalogo episc S. Andreae Io. Duns Bal. cent 14. Lesl. l. 7. Camd. Brit. Duns proved to be a Scottish man born An. 1341. Sir Iames Bane elected in Lambertons place Scon. l. in catal episc S. Andr. The Bishop dieth at Bruges in Flanders The See of S. Andrews void nine years William Landels chosen Bishop The Bishops obtained liberty to dispose of their goods by Testament Stephen chosen Bishop of S. Andrews he dieth at Anwick Walter Traill elected in his stead Scon. l. in Catal. episc S. Andr. An. 1401. His vertues and qualities Thomas Stewart son to Robert the second elected Bishop Scon. li. in Catalogo Episc S. Andreae Henry Wardlaw provided by Pope Benedict the 13. to the Bishoprick A Schisme in the Church Martin the 5. chosen Pope by the Councel of Constance The Abbot of Pontiniac directed to intimate the election Harding a Minorite perswadeth the Scots to continue in the obedience of Benedict Iohn Fogo a Monk of Melross refuseth Hardings Oration The schisme made way to the reformation Iohn Wickliffi Hus and Ierome of Prague Iames Resby Martyr Paul Craw Martyr The Bishop his qualities An. 1412. The University of S. Andrews founded in the year 1412. Boeth 1. 16. King Iames the first a great favourer of the University Bucban l. 10. The King his admonicion to the Church-men Buchan l. 10. Boeth l. 17. Bishop Wardlaw dieth Aâ—â—â— 1444. Bishop Iames Kennedy translated from Dunkeld to S. Andrews Buchan l. 12. Kennedy his just praises An. 1466. Bishop Kennedy his death the year 1466. Patrick Grahame chosen to succeed The See of S. Andrewes erected in an Archbishoprick The Bulls of Legaâ—ion and Primacie published Buchan l. 12. The King inhibiteth the exercise of his Legation An. 1444. William Shevez recommended to the Archdeaconry of S. Andrews The Bishop rejecteth him as insufâ—â—cient Shevez conspireth with the Rector The Bishop contemning the censure hath his goods confiscated The â—â—hop taken in favour Buchan l. 12. The Bishop of new troubled by the bankers of Rome The Bishop falling in some distraction is committed to Shevez Buchâ— n. l. 12. The Bishop condemned to lose his dignity Shevez provided to the Archbishoprick Patrick Grahame dieth at Lochleven An. 1478. The Church altogether in disorder Shevez receiveth the Pall and is invested Anno 1478. Lese l. 8. Archbishop of S. Andrew and Glasgow at diffension The History of the Church of Scotland An. 1513. The dispersers of these Articles cited before the Councell Iames Stewart brother to King Iames the fourth elected Bishop Anno 1503. B. Alexander Stewart succeedeth A Competition for the Archbishop Buchan l. 3. Lest. l. 3. The Bishop of Dunkeld quiteth his interest An. 1522. The Duke of Albany pacifieth the Competitors Lesl. l. 9. Iames Beaton translated from Glasgow to S. Andrews Lesl. l. 9. Buchan l. 14. Mr. Patrick Hamilton Abbot of Ferm Martyr Buchan l. 14. History of the Church p. 21. An. 1527. Articles wherewith the Abbot was charged Manuscript processe which is extant under the hands of the Theologues The subscrivers of the sentence The manner of his execution and speech at his dying History of the Church His appealing of Frier Campbell Frier Campbell dieth of a Phrensie History of the Church p. 23. Numbers brought to the knowledge of the truth by his suffering Buchan l. 14. Frier Seaton suspected of Heresie History of the Church Frier Seaton called before the Bishop The Frier flyeth to Berwick and from thence writeth to the King He becometh Chaplain to the Duke of Suffolk Acts of Martyrs Henry Forrest Martyr Divers cited to appear at Halirudhouse An. 1534. Normand Gourlay and David Straiton Martyrs Acts of Martyrs History of the Church Alexander Alesse and others fly to England Bal. cent 14. Divers accused of heresie in a meeting at Edinburgh An. 1538. The Vicar of Dolour his conference with the Bishop of Dunkeld History of the Church Vetimo Febr. 1538. Frier Russel and one Kennedy martyred at Glasgow History of the Church The Archbishop disswadeth the execution The courage of Russel at his dying Master George Buchannan eseapeth out of prison Buchan l. 14. The History of the Church The Archbishop committeth the charge of all affairs to his Nephew the Cardinal An. 1539. A contest for the imposition laid upon the Clergy for the Lords of Session Buchar l. 14. Lesl. l. 9. Bishop Beaton dieth The learned men that lived in this time M. Iohn Maior Bal cent 14. Lest. l. 9. Hector Boeth Bal. Cent. 14. Gilbert Crab. Bal. cent 15. William Gregory Bal. ibidem Iohn Scot his memorable fasting Buchan l. 14. Lesl. l. 9. He taketh his journey to the holy Sepulcher He is imprisoned in London Thomas Doughty suffered to abuse the people Scots emulaâ—ion of Doughty and his cousenage The history of Cardinal Beaton An. 1540. Sir Iohn Borthwick cited for heresie The heads of his accusation Sir Iohn Borthwick denounced heretick Acts of Mart. The King invited to meet his Uncle King Henry at York Buchan l. 14. Lesl. l. 9. Holinshed history of Scotland The Cardinal and Clergy seek to impede the meeting An. 1541. The King excuseth himself to King Henry Sir Iames Hamilton executed The King troubled with visions History of the Church The Justice Clerk his fearful death The King died at Falkland An. 1542 the eighth of December The Cardinal forgeth the Kings Testament Buchan l. 15. The Earl of Arran elected Governour An. 1542. The King of England seeketh to unite the Kingdomes by marriage Buchan l. 15. A Parliament at Edinburgh Lesl. l. 10. The Cardinal committed Ambassadors sent into England for concluding the match Buchan l. 15. The history of the Church The Governours Preachers suspected by the Clergy The Ambassadors return from England History of the Church The estate of the Governors Court The Bishop of Ross and Abbot of Paisley seek to divert the Governour from the Contract with England The Governours Preachers and servants part from him History
of the Church The Cardinal set at liberty A Convention of the Clergy at S. Andrews Buchan l. 15. The Ambassadour of England complaineth of the indignity offered to him The Governours excuse Buchan l. 15. Warre denounced by England The countrey goeth into factions The Earle of Lenox recalled from France Buchan l. 15. The Earle of Lenox welcomed by the Queen-mother and the Cardinal The young Queen removed to Striveling The Governor forsaketh his party and receiveth absolution from the Cardinal Buchan l. 15. The Cardinals care to be rid of the Earl of Lenox Buchan l. 15. The Earl of Lenox finding himself abused goeth to England The persecution of the professors in Perth The inditement of the persons delated They are found guilty and their behaviour at their suffering Burgesses exiled and the Lord Ruthven put from his Provostry Kinfawn elected Provest seeketh to force the town to obedience Buchan l. 15. The Lord Gray invading Perth is repulsed The Cardinals proceeding against the Professors in Angus and Meâ—nis Buchan l. 15. An. 1544. Roger a black Frier imprisoned at Saint Andrews The history of Mr. George Wishart Wishart discharged from preaching at Dundy History of the Church He goeth to the West where the Archbishop of Glasgow seeketh to apprehend him Wishart returneth to Dundy the pestilâ—nce theâ—e raging A Priest apprehended that intended to kill him History of the Church He visiteth Montrosse A plot of the Cardinals for his intercepting and his wonderfull escape His journey to Edinburgh and what befell him in the way An. 1545. Wishart preacheth at Leith He goeth to East Lothian and preacheth at Haddington He goeth to Ormeston and dimitteth Iohn Knox. There he is apprehended and delivered to the Earle Bothwell upon promise History of the Church The Lairds of Calder and Ormeston committed Wishart carried to S. Andrews The Cardinal sends to the Governour for a Commission David Hamilton of Presson disswadeth the Governour Buchan l. 15. The Governour desires the Cardinal to deferre the trial A citation for his appearance History of the Church At his trial the Sub-prior preacheth He is accused by Master Iohn Lawder a Priest Buch. n. l. 15. His answer Mr. George Wishart his appellation Sentence of death pronounced against him Two Friers sent to confesse him The conference with the Sub-prior He communicateth with the Captain of the Castle Buchan l. 15. Two executioners lead him to the place of his suffering History of the Church His death and the manner of it 2. Martii 1545. An. 1546. His prophesie of the Cardinals death Buchan l. 15. Prayers inhibited to be made for him after his death The Priests extoll the Cardinal He contracted his base daughter to the heir of Craford Buchan l. 15. A conspiracy against the Cardinal The proceeding of the conspirators Grange entereth into the Castle The servants and workmen put to the gate The Cardinal killed A tumult in the City Buchon l. 15. The Cardinal his description How the fact was interpreted in the Countrey A great stirre in the Church by this occasion The murtherers accursed The Governours base brother elected Bishop The Castle besieged and supplied from England A câ—pitulation with the besieged The Governor sendeth to France for a supply Divers joyned with those within the Castle Iohn Rough and Iohn Knox preach to the besieged Iohn Rough preaching in the city is oppugned by the Clergy Iohn Knox maintained his doctrine in a Sermon The substance of Iohn Knox his Sermon The Archbishop offended with the Sub-prior for permitting these preachings The two preachers convened before the Sub-prior Iohn Knox his judgement of tithes Iohn Knox his answer to the Sub-prior and Clergy An. 1547. A consultation of the Clergy how to stay the defection of the people Iohn Rough for saking those in the Castle goeth into England He is brought in question and examined by Bonner Bishop of London He suffered Martyrdom and is burnt in Smithfield The absolution returned from Rome doth not satisfy them The Castle of S. Andrews again besieged at the coming of the French Gallies The Castle besieged and battered by land and sea The Castle reduced upon capitulation The Castle demolished The Duke of Somerset invadeth Scotland His letter to the Governour and Nobility An. 1548. The Duke of Somnsets letters suppresâ—â—d The battel of Pincâ—ie The young Queen conveyed to Dumbartom The siege of Haddington A counsel taken for sending the young Queen to France An. 1550. Peace made with England The prisoners taken in the Castle of Saint Andrews put at liberty Norman Lesley his fortune and death The countrey vexed with Justice Courts Adam Wallace accused of heresie His answer History of the Church Acts of Martyrs A contention among Churchmen for saying of Pater noster The foolish preaching of a Frier in Saint Andrews upon this subject An. 1543. Acts of Martyrs p. 1274. A pleasant discourse and jest of the Subprliors servant The decision of the Provincial Synod The Catechisme called The two-peny faith A Provincial Synod kept at Linlithgow An. 1553. King Edward the sixth of England dieth Queen Regent admitted to rule by dimission of the Governour An. 1554. William Harlow a Minister Iohn Willock a Convert Iohn Knox returneth into Scotland Iohn Knox his conference with young Lethington touching the presence at the Masse The Priests offended at the dishant of the Masse Iohn Knox cited and the Diet deserted An. 1556. He goeth to Geneva He is condemned as an heretick and burnt in effigie Divers prodigious signes The esteem of the Clergy decayeth Mr. Iohn Douglas a Carmelite forsaketh his Order The Preachers cited before the Councel A Proclamaon for the borders The Gentlemen of the West complain of their oppression An. 1558. Commissioners chosen for the young Queens marriage with the Daulphin The misfortunes that happened in that voyage The history of Walter Mill Martyr His examination Sentence pronounced against Walter Mill. The Bailiffe of the Regality refuseth to be Judge His constancie at his suffering The people exceedingly moved at his speeches His Epitaph His death the death of Popery in this kingdome The worthy men that lived in this time Sir David Lindesay of the Mont. Mr. Patrick Cockburn Iohn Mackbrair Robert Wachop Archbishop of Armagh An. 1130. Dunkeld erected to be a Bishoprick The succeession of Bishops in that See An. 1210. An. 1376. An. 1010. The succession of Bishops in the See of Aberdene An. 1300. An. 1480. An. 1514. An. 1160. The succession of Bishops in the Dioces of Murray An. 1140. Since the writing of this Catalogue I have found four Bishops succeeding Edwardus one after another Turpimis Rodolphus Hugo and Gregonus But how long they sate Bishops I cannot say The succession of the Bishops of Dumblane An. 1210. The succession of the Bishops of Rosse An. 1066. The succession of the Bishops of Cathnes An. 1245. The Bishops of Orkney An. 1137. The succession of the Bishops of Glasgow An. 1207. An. 1325. An. 631. The Bishops of Galloway The
advertised of the enterprise of the banished Lords A Proclamation to meet the King at the Castle of Crawford A Proclamation given out by the banished Lords The Ambassadour went not saluting the King A Post is sent after him and his excuse The Lords make haste to Striveling The town of Striveling taken Two of the Councel directed to the Lords The Lords Answer The Kings care of those that attented him The King is pleased to admit the Lords in his presence The Lord Hamilton in name of the rest supplicates mercy The Kings Answer The Kings speech to Bothwel The King his pardon proclaimed The Master of Glammis made Captain of the Guard Thuan. hist. 1. 43. Duntraith confesseth the deposition he made against the Lords to be false A Parliament at Linlithgow The Ministers offend with the reconciled Lords Mr. William Watson Minister committed Iames Gibson committed for the like insolence The Superintendent of Lothian his death with a short description of his life An Assembly of the Church at Edinburgh The Lord Maxwel goâ—th to Masse and is committed An. 1586. A Synod at S. Andrews called against the Bishop April 1586. The Bishop being cited compeireth and protesteth against the Judicatory His accusation He appealeth to the King and Estates The Bishop excommunicated by the Synod Mr. Andrew and Mr. Iames Melvil excommunicated by a servant and Cousen of the Bishop The Appellation with the reasons sent to the King A transaction betwixt the Bishop and the Assembly The reasons moving the King to give way to this transaction The Ministers exhorâ—ed to judge charitably one of another Acts concluded in the Assembly His Majesties answer to the advice given him by the Chancellor A trouble in the Isles betwixt Mackoâ—â—il and Macklain The Earl of Eglington treacherously murthered A league with England concluded The Articles of the league The names of the Commissioners of both Kingdomes A new breach between the King and Queen of England The proceedings against the Queen of Scots Sentence of death pronounced against her William Keith sent into England about the midst of November A letter to William Keith from the King The Queen in passion at the sight of the letter The King excuseth the sharpnesse of his letter The Master of Gray and Sir Robert Melvil sent into England The first audience The second audience and effect thereof A letter from the King to the Master of Gray The Master of Gray drawne upon another course Secretary Walsingham writeth to the Lord Thirlstan The King commandeth the Ministers to remember his mother in their prayers The third of February appointed for solemn prayers in her behalf The Bishop of S. Andrews appointed to preach Mr. Iohn Cowper usurpeth the place The Ministers at Edinburgh discharged The Queen of Scots her request to the Queen of England The Queen of England is doubtful which way to take The Queen of Scots willed to prepare her self for death Her behaviour and preparation She biddeth her servants farewell Her directions to Andrew Melvil her Steward She is brought to the place of execution The Dean of Peterburâ—ow offereth to comfort her She prayeth by her self The manner of the execution A brief description of her fortune The inscription secretly affixed on her Sepulchre The same Englished The Queen of England writeth to the King by Mr. Robert Cary. The King denieth him accesse Mr. caâ—ies Declaration in writing The Declaration giveth no content to the King The Queen laboureâ—h to divert the King from Warre A letter of Walsâ—gham to the Lord Thâ—lsâ—an A Convention of the Estates The King is informed of certain speeches uttered by the Master of Gray 20. Apr. The Master of Gray and Sir William Stewart committed Sir William Stewart insists in the challenge of the Master of Gray Sir William Stewart liberated and the Master of Gray imprisoned Captain Iame information against the Lord Thirlstane An. 1587. Thirlstane created Chancellor A Parliament indicted at Edinburgh The Noblemen reconciled A general Assembly of the Church The Kings propositions to the Assembly by his Commissioners Montgomery resigneth the Bishoprick of Glasgow to Mr. William Ereskin The Churches petition to the Parliament against the Prelates The temporalty of Benefices annexed to the Crown The King forthinketh the passing of the annexation 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 lib. 2. pag. 43. The small Barons admitted to give voice in Parliament The Lord Hunsdon hath presence of the King A Proclamation against incursions in England The Ambassadors sent into Denmark return 15. May. Latter end of August A Proclamation against Jesuits and Priests The Jesuits find caution to depart A general Assembly of the Church A Proposition made for the dangers threatened to Religion The advice of the Noblemen and Barons The King refuseth accesse to the multitude A conference betwixt certain of the Councel and the Assembly The grievances of the Church presented to the King The Minister Iames Gibson censured for his speeches against the King An. 1588. Gibson suspended from his ministery The Lord Hereis cleared of the accusation made against him The Borders begin to stirre upon the Lord Maxwels return The Kings expedition to Dumfreis Lochmaben rendred and the Keeper executed The Lord Maxwel taken prisoner at sea by Sir William Stewart and brought prisoner to Edinburgh Sir William Stewart killed by Bothwel Penult Iulii A meeting of the Estates upon the rumour of the Spanish Navy beginning of August His Majesties speech to the Estates The Chancellor his speech seconding the King Bothwel perswadeth the invasion of England Colonel Semple his arrive at Leth. The Colonel apprehended and relieved by the Earl of Huntley * 21. Iuly Huntley offers to present the Colonel to the Councel Sir Robert Sidney sent from England to the King 29. August The History of the Spanish Navy Captain Drakes stratagem The Navy returneth to Spain The death of Archibald Earl of Angus An. 1589. His disposition in his sickness A message from the Prince of Parma to the Catholick Lords Huntley reconciled to the Church Huntley excuseth his reconcilement by a letter A letter from the Earl of Arroll to the Prince of Parma Letters sent to the King of Spain from the Catholick Lords The Jesuits stirre up the Lords to enterprise somewhat by themselves A plot for taking the King A practise against the Chancellor Huntley cometh to the King Huntley committed in the Castle of Edinburgh Huntley set at liberty A letter from the Queen of England to the King The Lords make open insurrection The Subjects warned to accompany the King His Majesties speech to the Noblemen in his Army A question for leading the Vant-guard The Lords dissolve their forces The King goeth to Aberdene He returneth to Edinburgh about the beninning of May. The Earl Marshall goeth to Denmark to accomplish the marriage 10. Iune The Rebels offer to submit themselves Huntley Crawford and Bothwel impanelled The points of their indictment The Lords found guilty and committed to several Wards An Assembly of
the Church at Edinburgh The Bishop of S. Andrews deprived for the marriage of Huntley The course taken with the imprisoned Lords Advertisement to the King of the marriage with the Queen The King intendeth a journey to Norway * 22. October He leaveth a Declaration under his hand Directions to the Councel The marriage solemnized at vpslo The Earl of Marshals proceedings ratâ—fied The Kings journey from Norway to Denmark An. 1590. Colonel Stewart sent with ships to the King Penult Martii The King and Queen return to Scotland Bothwel his satisfaction to the Church A difference among the Clergy for anointing the Queen The ceremony of Unction not Jewish The Queens Coronation at Halyrudhouse The Queens entry into Edinburgh The Ministers challenged for permitting Iames Gibson to preach The King offended with the alliance of Morton with Arrol An Assembly of the Church The King Commended to the Assembly the removing of the deadly feuds A trouble betwixt the Earl of Huntley and the Earl of Murray An. 1591. A sorceresse Agnes Samson apprehended Bothwell committed for consulting with witches The Laird of Dun his death Bothwell breaketh his Ward The doom of forfeiture pronounced against him His Majesties Declaration concerning Bothwell Bothwell layeth the blame of his rebellion upon the Chancellor A contest between the Church and Lords of Session Mr. Iohn Graham questioned by the Church The Archbishop of S Andrews his recantation A revocation made in name of the Church A Schisme in the Presbytery of S. Andrews Bothwells attempt upon Halyrudhouse The success of the attempt The Earl of Murray slain at Dunybâ—issell 7 Feb. 1692. The murther universally ill taken The Lord Ochiltrie maketh defection to Bothwell An. 1592. Petitions in behalf of the Church The first Petition granted and in what manner Bothwells attempt at Falkland Arroll and Collonell Stewart committed Bothwell and his company flyeth The King pursueth and cometh to Edinburgh Nidry taken by the Lord Hamilton and dimitted by his Lady Pardon granted to those that would forsake Bothwell The Lord Spinie delated for practising with the Lord Bothwell Iohn Weymis of Logie committed for his practises with Bothwell escaped A faction made against the Chancellor Troubles in the North betwixt Huntley and the Clanhattan The Earl of Angus imployed in a Commission to the North in November The Earl of Angus imprisoned in the Castle Mr. George Ker his Confession The Earl of Angus denieth the blanks The Kings resolution published for punishing that conspiracy A Meeting of the Mininistery The King his desire proponed to the Meeting An offer made by the Meeting Fintry beheaded An. 1593. The disposition and qualities of Mr. Iohn Graham The Earl of Angus escapeth The houses of the rebels rendered Atholl and Marshall made Lieutenants of the North. * 26. March A message from the Queen of England The Ambassador intercedeth for Bothwell An. 1592. Midst of April An Assembly of the Church at Dundiâ— Articles sent by his Majesty to the Church The Assemblies Answer A change of the Mondayes Mercat urged at Edinburgh An. 1593. Sir Robert Melvill sent into England The King surprised by Bothwell The manner of the surprise The Citie in armes Conditions granted to Bothwell by the Ambassadors mediation Articles subscribed by the witnesses The King goeth to Falkland A Convention at Striveling 7. Sept. The Estates finde the Conditions given to Bothwell dishonorable The Prior of Blantyre and sir Robert Melvill directed to Bothwell Bothwell falleth to his wonted forms Atholl coming to Striveling is charged to return home in the beginning of October Montrosse taken by the Lord Home Bothwell denounced Rebell The Popish Lords excommicated by the Synod of Fiâ—e The King dealeth with with M Robert Bruce to stay the publication of the sentence The Popish Lords meeâ—ing the King at Falaw desire a triall They are commanded to enter themselves in Perth Petitions of the Church sent to the King at Iedburgh The Conference betwixt his Majesty and the Commissioners of the Church The assembly resolved to keep the Diet appointed for the Lords trial A Proclamation inhibiting all convocations A Convocation of the Estates Certain of the Estates selected to judge of the Lords offers Conclusion taken touching the Popish Lords Troubles betwixt the Maxwells and the Iohnstons Iohnston preventeth the Lord Maxwell and killeth Captain Oliphant Maxwell invadeth Annandale The Lord Maxwell killed 6. December The Lord Here is and Barons of the Countrey appointed to remain at Drumfreis A Convention of the Estates The Popish Lords declared to have lost the benefit of Abolition An. 1594. The Queen delivered of a son at Striveling The Lord Souche Ambassadour from England Mr. Andrew Hunter Minister waiteth upon Bothwell as his Chaplain Bothwell prepareth of new to invade the King The Ambassadours dealing with Bothwell discovered The Roade of Leith The King Commanded the people to Arm. Bothwell removeth from Leith The Conflict betwixt Bothwell and Hume The Lord Colvill and Mr. Edward Bruce directed to England The Kings letter to the Queen of England The Commission given to the Ambassadours The Queen of Englands answer The Queen dischargeth Bothwell his resset in England An Assembly of the Church Petitions directed from the Church to the King A Remonstrance of the perills threatned to Religion The remedies of the dangers The Lord Hume reconciled to the Church Instructions sent from the King to the Church and Assembly A Parliament wherein the Lords are forfeited An. 1595. The bond betwixt the Popish Lords and Balwery exhibited Sir Iames Duglas of Spot excommunicated An. 1695. An assembly of the Church at Montrose Articles sent from the King to the Assembly An. 1595. The Assemblies answer The Queen seeketh to have the Prince in custody The King diverteth her from that course The Kings letter to the Earl of Marre for receiving the Prince The Chancellor contracteth sickness and dieth The Kings letter to the Chancellor The Chancellor his qualities His Epitaph written by the King Great death of Corns and great bloodshed in the Countrey David Forester Citizen of Striveling treacherously betrayed A Commission to eight of the Councel to rule the Exchequer The tenor of the Commission The King his promise to the Commissioners The Commissioners make faith Exception taken at the ampleness of the Commissioners The Commissioners possesse themselves with offices of Estate An. 1596. William Armstrong called Will of Kinmouth taken Prisoner The Laird of Baclugh complaineth of the breach of truce No satisfaction made Baclugh sets the Prisoner at liberty The Castle of Carlile surprised and the Prisoner freed The Queen of England greatly offended with the enterprise This matter debated in Councell The trouble quieted by Baclugh in England Col. Stewart design'd Lieutenant for the Isles An Assembly of the Church at Edinburgh A search of the causes of the present fear of invasion A new Covenant made by the Ministers for abiding to the profession of the truth and living according to the same Advice for resisting the enemies of
the Earl of Orkney Iohn Ogilvy a Jesuit apprehended His examinamination by certain Commissioners A direction from his Majesty touching their proceeding with him Certain Questions moved to the Jesuit His Answer to the Questions His Answer sent to his Majesty Commission for the Jesuits triall The Jesuits defence at his indictment The exception proponed by the Jesuit The exception proponed by the Jesuit The Jesuite convicted and executed Moffet another jesuit licenced to depart An. 1615. The Archbishop of S. Andrews his death Bishops translated by this occasion The History of Somersets fall Sir Tho Overburie his free advice to Somerset Overbury committed to the Tower Overbury poysoned and dyeth The murther discovered and laid open An. 1616. Somerset and his Lady brought to triall The persons of the Jury The Earl and his Lady convicted and sentenced The Marquis of Huntly called before the Commissioners He is Committed He is released by the Chancellour The Bishops complain to his Majesty A Command to the Marquis to return to his ward The Marquis permitted to come to Court The form of the absolution His Majesties letter to the Bishops for justifying the absolution The Archbishop of Canterbury's excuse for the absolution The Archbishops letter giveth some content An Assembly at Aberdene The Marquiss of new absolved Acts concluded in the Assembly Commissioners directed to the King from the Assembly His Majesties answer returned Articles craved to be incerted among the Canons Reasons why the Articles could not be inserted among the Canons A Proclamation touching the Kings purpose to visit the Countrey The Earl of Marre made Thesaurer A direction for repairing the Chapell The Bishops entreat the stay of some carved pictures upon fear of offence Ann. 1617. His Majesties answer The King refutech to deferre his journey as he was desired A Parliament in Scotland His Majesties speech to the Estates A Trouble in choosing the Lords of the Articles Article concerning his Majesties prerogative in caâ—ses Ecclesiasticall A stir among the Ministers because of the Article The Ministers Protestation The subscrivers of the Protestation Mr. Peter Hewet undertakes the presenting of the Protestation The Clerk of Register commanded to pass by the Article of Prerogative The Bishops warned to meet at S. Andrews His Majesties speech at the meeting The Ministers promise obedience upon permission of a general Assembly Mr. Arâ—hibald Sympson and Mr. David Catherwood committed The King departeth towards London An assembly at S. Andrews The Assembly inclineth to a delay The Commissioners obtain a grant of private Communion The King offended with the Assemblies proceedings writeth to the two Archbishops Another letter to the Archbishop of S. Andrews Letters to the Councell for inhibiting the payment of Stipends Mr. Archibald Sympson put to liberty His inconstancie and change A warrant to proceed with the Commission of Stipends A generall Assembly indicted at Perth His Majesties Letter to the Assembly An. 1618. The five Artiticles concluded Article for kneeling Private Communion Private Biptisme Confirmation of Children Observation of Festivities The Articles ordained to be intimated in all Churches The Earl of Argile falleth from his profession A Comet or blasing Starre Queen Anne dieth Ann. 1619. The Synod of Dordrecht said to have condemned the five articles of Perth The Bishop of Galloway dieth The Bishop of Brichen translated to Galloway A distraction betwixt the Ministers and Magistrates of Edinburgh The disorder pacified Four other Ministers planted at Edinburgh An. 1620. A contribution required for defence of the Palatinate Ann. 1621. A Parliament desired by the estates Sir Gideon Murray his death The Marquis of Hamilton keepeth the Parliament Matters concluded in Parliament The King receiveth great content by the things concluded A Letter from his Majestie to the Bishops A Letter from his Majesty to the Councell The Marquis of Hamilton wronged by a false rumour An. 1622. The Chancellor Seaâ—on dieth Rumors dispersed of Tolerations intended The judgment of the wiseâ— sort His Majesties speech in a Parliament held at that time in England An. 1623. His Majesties directions to the Councell of Scotland The Princes journey to Spain and the occasion thereof The Princes entertainment in Spain The Letter of Pope Gâ—gory the 15 to the Prince The successe of the Match intended with Spaiâ— The Prince returneth to England An. 1624. A trouble in Edinburgh raised against the Minisâ—es The death of Lodovick Duke of Richmond and Lennox An. 1625. The death of Iames Marquis of Hamilton The King much affected with these deaths contracts a feaver and dieth An Epitaph upon King IAMES his death written by the Reverend Divine Dr. Morley C. C. C. Oxon.
further A Visitation for this effect being appointed the 11 of Iuly and Mr. Blake summoned to the same day the Elders and Deacons of the Church were inquired touching the behaviour of them both and the verity of the accusations laid against them who all upon oath deponed that the accusations were true and that Blake had spoken all that whereof he was convicted before the Councell as also that the Secretaries complaint of Mr. Wallace was most just And being askt touching their behaviour otherwise they declared that both the one and the other were given to factions and that they did not carry themselves with that indifferency which became Preachers This Declaration made clear way to the Commissioners for ending that business and providing S. Andrews with a more peaceable Ministery whereupon sentence was given that both the Ministers should be removed and Mr. George Gladstaves a man sufficiently qualified serving then at Arbirlot in Angus translated and placed in their room till another helper might be found out to be joyned with him This done the Sunday following he was accepted of the people with a great applause Mr. Thomas Buchannan Mr. Iames Nicolson and Mr. Iames Melvill entring him to the charge And because it concerned the peace of the Church no lesse to have the abuses of the University reformed the calling the Governours thereof and inquiring what order they kept when he understood that against the accustomed form Mr. Andrew Melvill had continued Rector in a number of years together he commanded a new election to be made and honouring the election with his own presence in the Schools of S. Salvator Mr. Robert Wilkie Principall of S. Leonards was chosen Rector and appointed to bear that charge unto the ordinary time of election as also for preventing the like disorders a Statute was made That none should be continued Rector above a year nor admitted to the said office but after the space of three years It was likewise declared That any Suppost having received the degree of a Master of Arts might be chosen Rector he residing in the University during his office or at least the most part of his time In the new Colledge whereof the said M. Andrew had the charge all things were found out of order the rents ill husbanded the professions neglected and in place of Divinity Lectures Politick Questions of tentimes agitated as Whether the election or succession of Kings were the better form of government How farre the Royall power extended and if Kings might be censured for abusing the same and deposed by the Estates of the Kingdome The King to correct these abuses did prescrive to every Professor his subject of teaching appointing the first Master to read the Common places to the Students with the Law and History of the Bible the second to read the New Testament the third the Prophets with the Books of Ecclesiastes and Canticles and the fourth the Hebrew Grammar with the Psalms the Proverbs and the Book of Iob. For the better husbanding of the Rents as well in that as in the other Colledges it was ordained That there should be a Councell chosen to the Vniversity which should have power to elect an Oeconomus in every Colledge for uplifting the rents and take care to see all things rightly administrated Of this Councell were named the Chancellar of the University the Conservator of the privileges the Laird of Colluthie Mr. David Lindesay Mr. Robert Rollock and Mr. Thomas Buchannan without whose consent and subscriptions it should not be lawfull to set any Lease or make other disposition whatsoever of any part of the rents And lest they should be distracted by any other employment it was concluded That all the Doctors Professors and Regents not being Pastors in the Church should be exempted from the keeping of Sessions Presbyteries Synodicall or Generall Assemblies and from all teaching in Churches and Congregations exercises excepted with a discharge to all and every one of them to accept any Commission prejudiciall to the said exemption under the pain of deprivation and rebellion at the Conservators instance the one execution not prejudging the other Yet that they should not be thought excluded from the Generall Assembly it was appointed That the Masters and Regents of the University should meet when any such occasion did offer and condescend upon some three persons of whom one should be elected by the foresaid Councell to be present at the Generall Assembly for that year which person so chosen should not for the space of three years thereafter be employed in that Commission These Articles being openly recited in presence of his Majesty and of the whole members of the University were accepted by the Masters and Regents with solemn promise of obedience This Summer there was a great business for the triall of Witches amongst others one Margaret Atkin being apprehended upon suspicion and threatned with torture did confesse her self guilty Being examined touching her associates in that trade she named a few and perceiving her delations finde credit made offer to detect all of that sort and to purge the Countrey of them so she might have her life granted for the reason of her knowledge she said That they had a secret mark all of that sort in their eyes whereby she could surely tell how soon she lookt upon any whether they were Witches or not and in this she was so readily believed that for the space of 3 or 4 months she was carried from town to town to make discoveries in that kinde Many were brought in question by her delations especially at Glasgow where divers innocent women through the credulity of the Minister M. Iohn Cowper were condemned and put to death In end she was found to be a meer deceiver for the same persons that the one day she had declared guilty the next day being presented in another habit she cleansed and sent back to Fife where first she was apprehended At her triall she affirmed all to be false that she had confessed either of her self or others and persisted in this to her death which made many forthink their too great forwardness that way and moved the King to recall the Commissions given out against such persons discharging all proceedings against them except in case of voluntary confession till a solid order should be taken by the Estates touching the form that should be kept in their triall In the Borders at the same time great troubles were raised by the broken men of Tindale and Rheadsdale who made incursions on the Scots side and wasted all the Countrey of Liddisdale The Laird of Baclugh that had the keeping of those parts to be repaired of that wrong made a road into England and apprehending 36 of the doers put them all to death and brought away a great spoil Sir William Bowes being sent to complain of this after much debating it was agreed that for keeping peace in the Borders Hostages
should be delivered of either side English men into Scotland and as many Scots into England But Baclugh failing to deliver his in due time was commanded for satisfying the Queen to enter himself into England as he did remaining there from October to February next In the moneth of December a Parliament was held at Edinburgh for restoring of the forfeited Lords to their lands and honours Amongst the Articles presented to this meeting by the Commissioners of the Church one was That the Ministers as representing the Church and third Estate of the Kingdome might be admitted to give voice in Parliament according to the Acts made in favours of the Church and the liberty and freedome thereof The King was earnest to have the Article granted and at last obtained an Act to be made whereby it was declared That such Pastors and Ministers as his Majesty should please to provide to the place title and dignity of a Bishop Abbot or other Prelate at any time should have voice in Parliament as freely as any other Ecclesiastical Prelate had at any time by-past And that all Bishopricks then in his Majesties hands and undisponed to any person or which should happen to fall void thereafter should be only disponed to actuall Preachers and Ministers in the Church or to such other persons as should be found apt and qualified to use and exerce the Office of a Preacher or Minister and who in their provisions to the said Bishopricks should accept in and upon them to be actuall Pastors and Ministers and according thereto should practise and exerce the same As concerning the office of the said persons in the spirituall policie and goverment of the Church the same was remitted to his Majesty to be advised and agreed upon with the Generall Assembly at such time as his Highness should think expedient to treat with them thereupon without prejudice in the mean time of the jurisdiction and discipline of the Church established by Acts of Parliament and permitted to Generall and Provinciall Assemblies and other Presbyteries and Sessions of the Church This Act gave occasion to the indicting of a Generall Assembly which convened at Dundie in March next where the King being present did shew That he had anticipated the time of the Assembly for the appointment was at Striveling this first Tuesday of May that he might be resolved touching their acceptation of the place in Parliament with the form māner and number of persons that should be admitted to have voice and thereupon desired them to enter into a particular consideration of the whole points of the Act and first to reason whether it was lawfull and expedient that the Ministers as representing the whole Church within the Realm should have voice in Parliament or not This Question being long debated first in private by some Brethren selected to that purpose then in the hearing of the whole Assembly it was concluded That Ministers might lawfully give voice in Parliament and other publick meetings of the Estate and that it was expedient to have some alwaies of that number present to give voice in name of the Church A second Question being moved touching the number of those that should have voice it was agreed That so many should be appointed to give voice as of old had place in the Papisticall Church to wit 51 persons or thereby Thirdly touching the election of those that should have voice it was resolved That the same did appertain partly to his Majesty and partly to the Church And because time could not permit the discussing of the rest of the points as de modo eligendi what rent those Ministers should have whether they should continue in that office ad vitam or not what their title should be and the cautions to preserve them from corruption with other the like circumstances the Presbyteries were desired to consider the same throughly and thereafter to meet in their Synods all upon one day to wit the first Tuesday of Iune and having reasoned upon these heads to direct three of their number to convene with his Majesty the advertisement being upon a moneth at least and with the Doctors of the Universties namely Mr. Andrew Melvill Mr. Iohn Iohnston Mr. Robert Wilkie Mr. Robert Rollock Mr. Robert Howy Mr. Patrick Sharp and Mr. Iames Martin at such time and place as his Majesty should think most convenient with power to them being so convened to treat reason and conferre upon the said heads and others appertaining thereto and in case of agreement and uniformity of opinions to conclude the whole question touching voice in Parliament otherwise in case of discrepance to remit the conclusion to the next Generall Assembly The Commissioners proceedings in planting the Church of S. Andrews were at the same time ratified but the provision of Edinburgh which they had likewise concluded made greater business The King had been induced by the humble intreaty of Mr. David Lindesay Mr. Robert Rollock and Mr. Patrick Galloway to suffer the old Ministers preach again in their places upon their faithfull promises to observe the Conditions following 1 That they should not in Pulpit make any apology for themselves further then to say that they had satisfied his Majesty touching their intentions in the day of the tumult and that they condemned the raisers thereof and all that took Arms or gave command or allowance thereunto praising the calme and clement course his Majesty hath taken in censuring the same 2 That they should at no time thereafter tax quarrell or reproach directly or indirectly privately or publickly any inhabitant of Edinburgh that did shew themselves affectionate to his Majesty and if any of them should happen to fall in any offence meriting the censure of the Church discipline they should in the triall and censuring thereof use them indifferently as if they had never kithed contrary to the said Ministers 3 That they should not in Pulpit speak otherwise then reverently of his Majesties Councell and their proceedings and in their Sermons labour to imprint in the peoples hearts a reverent conceit of his Majesty and his actions so farre as in them lies and when as they should hear any slanderous or offensive reports of his Majesty or of any of his Counsellors his or their intentions or proceedings they should address them in all humility to his Majesty and with due reverence make him acquainted with the reports receiving his Majesties own declaration therein whereunto they should give credit and generally should conform themselves to the order set down in the late generall Assembly thereanent 4 That they should never hereafter refuse to give accompt of any of their speeches in Pulpit or of their proceedings elsewhere but when his Majesty should require the same they should plainly declare the truth of that they should be asked in all humbleness and simplicity without claiming to the generall warrant of conscience not founded upon reason The