forces to quell the infolencies and shake the pride of the factious Nobles The heads of the factions which had a principal â—way in the Kingdom at that time would either be cuto off or kept under but with such cunning and dexterity that it should not be perceived nor found out that many were aimed at and interessed when some few did suffer and fall That for the present there were three heads to be looked unto as â—eared and like to bring Novations in the State being mâ—n able to change the present Government The Earl of Anguss a man in the prime of his youth of high flying thoughts by his Alliance with the King of England and that estimaion the people conceived of him by the demerits of his Ancesters and the singular love the Subjects bare him carryed a mind above the fortune of a private man and seemed not born to live a subjects life each action of his bearing in it majesty and magnificence he had power to hurt if he would hurt The Lord Chamberlain a man unpolisht stubbornly stout hazâ—rdous mighty in riches and power and consequently proud of a working mind and vehement Spirit whom time and experience had hardned by great exployts and most dangerous actions who had the malice to be a Spectator of the discomâ—iture of his Prince and Countrymen at Flowden was likely to attend the opportunity of traverses and changes The third was the Arch-Bishop Andrew Forman once Secretary to the Pope who though he was not of any Noble Steâ— nor descent of blood nor for his Followers Friends and Adherents much to be taken notice of or feared yet considering him as his Legateship pluralty of benefices many pensions from Princes had guilded him over and ballancing him by his present treasure he could make a weak party strong and add weight to what side soever he inclined He was therefore with piercing eyes to be lookt into and all his actions and waies to be observed The Governour gave not great attention to what the Priour had instructed against the Arch-Bishop having before had some inkling of the rancor grudge and enmitie between them And he was conscious the Arch-Bishops riches were above envy he having been even more solicitous magnificently to spend what he had acquired than hoord up Neither did he bestow so much upon any of his Countreymen as he did upon the French the Friends and Servants of the Governour He knew he was also so circumspect as not to adhere to any of the factions of the time in a neutrality indifferently and friendly enteâ—taining all his Compatriots Nor was he much moved at his information concerning the Earl of Angus finding him a man peaceable courteous to all and affâ—ble and though of aspiring thoughts carryed often away with his private delights and Courtly pleasures But what the Priour informed against the Lord Chamberlain he deeply ingraved in his memory and ever after his countenance bewrayed certain flaws of ill concealed discontent Neither did he thereafter shew him wounted favours which the Chamberlain observing and guessing at the change of the Governors mind towards him by more than ordinary evidences and signs He having been the onely man who wrought his advancement and comming to Scotland his deserts now either forgot or ungratefully remembred full of grief and disdain retired from the Court to his own Castles where when he had rested a while half astonished to see his hopes so frustrate he taketh new resolutions and determinations to play the Governour double or quite Hereafter he leaveth no meanes untryed to become entire with the Queen and her Husband and by observance and frequent meeting with them he wrought himself not onely to be imbraced as their Friend but their Counsellor and one in whom they had great confidence He many times with them deplored the publick calamity when his own particular only stong him accusing himself of his too much forwardness in calling home a man born an exile whose father dyed banish'd for his ambition and her essâ—yed to take the Crown form his eldest Brother Sith this man was the neerest of bloud to succeed who could not perceive his last work would be the making away the innocent child his Pupil to ascend the Royal Throne himself in the height of malice accomplishing what his Father out of a desire to rule did project By his tender years the King could not prevent his danger his Mother might anticipate it that new necessities requir'd new remedys only one postern gate remained yet open which was that the Queen would transport her Son to England When this plot wâ—s whisper'd to the Governor who wanted not his Emissaries among the Queens attendants it was no sooner reveal'd than believ'd and no sooner believ'd when being a man who used celerity in all his actions with as many men as hast could suffer him to gather forthwith marched from Edinburgh to Sterlin there unawares he surprized the Castle and in it the Queen with her two Sons A Council being assembled the King with his brother Alexander are sequestred from their Mother and trusted to the custody of four Lords who by turns interchangeably should attend the two Princes and have a care of their education That no violence should be offered them certain Gentlemen of the French and Scots are appointed still to wait on and guard them from this suspition the seeds of enmity began to be sown between the Qâ—een and the Governor which neither time nor wisdom thereafter could take away and root out Amidst this storm of Court the Lord Chamberlain brought to a new traverse of his thoughts with his Brother Mr. William Hume fly towards England the Queen with her Husband and Sir Gâ—orge Dowglas his Brother with an unexpected suddeness hast to Tantallon and from thence to Berwick from which they had a convoy to the Nunnery of Colstream Here they attended advertisment from the King of England what course to follow and know his pleasure He recommended them to the Protection and care of the Lord Dacres and assigned the Castle of Harbottle in Northumberland for his Sisters residence during her aboad in these Northern parts and the troubles of Scotland The Governor not a little perplexed at the flight and escape of those Conspiraâ—ours sendeth Embassadors to the Court of England to clear himself to the King of what might be surmised against him concerning these new strangers come to his Country He had done nothing which should have offended the Queen made her afraid or to entertain or harbour a sinister thought of his proceedings Neither did he intend any thing against these had followed and accompanyed her which should have moved them to leave their Country unto whom if they pleased to return they should be welcom enjoy their wonted freedom and keep peaceably what they had possâ—ssed If they were conscious to themselves of any misdemeanor he would not be too precise in the search of it He also trafficked by the friends of those who
possibly best to be considered in the Negative We find many things done by his Captains not by him which notwithstanding we may rather attribute to the stirring and violent humour of that age than either his age want of Genius or love of quiet yet herein appears somewhat of his Character that meeting with turbulent times and a martial people he met not with any Insurrections and was a gainer and though he did it by other hands we must suppose that their Motions were directed by his Brain that communicated Motion and Spirits unto them since the Minds of Kings like the first Mover turn all about yet are not perceived to move and it was no humane wit said their hearts were unscruitable The same year his Eldest Son Iohn was called to succeed who thinking that name ominous to Kings and there wanted not examples as of him of England and him of France and fancying somewhat of the felicity of the two former Roberts was crowned King by the name of ROBERT the III. This man being unactive the weight of the Government rested upon his Brother Robert The first seven years of his Reign past in a calm with England by reason of two Truces but not without some fierce fewds among his Subjects one whereof was very memorable between Thomas Dunbar Earl of Murray and Iames Lindsay Earl of Crawford and was most high insomuch that seeing the difficulty of reducing them he resolved to make this proposition to them That 300. of each side should try it by dint of Sword before the King the conquered to be pardoned and the Conquerour advanced This being agreed on a place was appointed on the Northside of St. Iohnstons but when they came to join battel there was one of one side missing whom when his party could not supply and none would relinguish the other a Tradesman stept out and for half a French Crown and promise of maintenance for his life filled up the company The fight was furious but none behaved himself more furiously than the Mercinary Champion who they say was the greatest cause of the Victory for of his side there remained ten grievously wounded the other party had but one left who not being wounded yet being unable to sustain the shock of the other threw himself into the Tey and escaped By this means the fiercest of two Clanns being cut off the remainder being headless 1398. were quiet Two years after the King in Parliament made his two Sons Dukes a title then first brought into Scotland Next year Richard the second of England being forced to resign Henry the fourth succeeded in the beginning of whose reign though the Truce was not ended the seeds of War began to bloom out and upon this occasion George Earl of March had betroathed Elizabeth his Daughter to David the Kings eldest Son Archibald Earl of Dowglas not brooking this gets a vote of Parliament for revocation of this mariage and by the power of Robert the Kings Brother made a mariage between Mary his Daughter and David and giving a greater sum got it confirmed in Parliament The Earl of March nettled at this demands redress but being not heard leaves the Court and with his Family and Friends goes into England to the Lord Peircey an utter Enemy of the Dowglasses wasts March and especially depradating the lands of the Dowglasses The Scots declare the Earl of March an enemy and send to demand him up of the English who deny to surrender him This made Hot-spur Peircey and March make several incursions into Scotland till at last they were repulsed at Linton-Bridge by the Dowglasses 1400. This was about the year four hundred at which time War was denounced and the English entered with a great Army took Haddington and Lieth and laid siege to Edenburgh Castle David the Kings Son being within it which the new Governour ambitiously delaying to relieve the English satisfyed with the terrour they brought retired again After which March did not cease his little incursions which to be revenged of Dowglas divided his forces into two Squadrons the first to Halyburton who returned from Barmborough with some prey the second and greater to Patrick Hepburn who unwarily roving with his prey was set on by the English and with all the youth of Lothian put to the Sword To revenge this Dowglas gets together 10000. men and passing beyond Newcastle met with young Peircey c. who at Homildon a little village in Northumberland in the year 1401 gave him and his Party such a considerable defeat as Scotland had not receiv'd the like for a long time This put Peircey in hopes to reduce all beyond the Fryth but the troubles at home withdrew him from that design By this Annabel the Queen dying David her Son who by her means had been restrained broke out into his natural disorders and committed all kind of Rapine and Luxury Complaint being brought to his Father he commits him to his Brother the Governor whose secret design being to root out the off-spring the business was so ordered as that the young man was shut up in Falkland Castle to be starved which yet was for a while delayed one woman thrusting in some thin Oaten Cakes at a chink another giving him milk out of her papps through a Trunck But both these being discovered the youth being forced to tear his own members dyed of a multiplied death which murder being whispered to the King and the King enquiring after it was so abused by the false representations of his Brother that grief and imprecations was all the Relief he had left him as being now retired sickly to Bote-Castle and unable to punish him The King being solicitous of Iames his younger Son is resolved by the example of the good usage of David to send him to Charls the sixt of France having taken Shipping at the Basse as he past by the Promontory of Flamborough whether forc'd by tempest or that he was Seasick he was forced to land taken by the English and detained notwithstanding the allegation of a Truce of eight years and his Fathers Letters And though it came to the Privy-Council to be debated yet his detention was carried in the Affirmative This advantage he had by his Captivity that he was well and carefully educated but the News so struck his Father that he had almost presently dyed but being carried into his Chamber with voluntary abstinence and sorrow he shortned his life three daies longer viz. to the first of April 1406. â—e was a man of a goodly and a comely personage one rather sit for the tranquillity of a private life than the agitations of Royalty and indeed such an one whose Reigns do little else but fill up Chronologies with the number of their years Upon this the Parliament confirm Robert for Governour a man of parts able enough for that employment but a man of such a violent and inveterate ambition as would sacrifise any thing to make it fuel to it self Soon
entertained by King Iames and so many friends as either his Alliance or Virtues had acquired After some few daies stay desiring to have audience in Counsel they wâ—re admitted where Bishop Lightoun is said to have spoken to this effect The respect and reverence which the Nation of the Scots carryeth towards all 〈◊〉 is all where known but most that love and loyalâ—y which they have to the sacred Persons of their own native Princes for as Monarchy is the most ancient form of Government so have they ever esteemed it the best it being more easie to find one instructed and trained up in heroical virtues than to find many And how well soever Governours and Vice-Gerents rule the Common-wealth yet is that Government but as the light of the Moon or stars in absence of the Sun and but representations of shadows for reall Bodies This hath moved the three estates of that Kingdom to direct us here unto you Our King these many years hath been kept from us upon just or unjust Grounds we will not argue that providence which hath appointed every thing to its own end hath done this for the best both to you and us and we are now to treat with you for his Delivery Beseecâ—ing you to remember that his Father of sacred memory recommended him out of that general duty which one Prince oweth to aâ— other to your Kings Protection in hope of Sanctuary and in request of ayd and comfort against secret and therefore the more dâ—ngerous Enemies And to confess the Truth hitherto he hath been more assured amongst you than if he had remained in his own Countrey your favours being many waies extended towards him having in all liberal Sciences and vertues broâ—ght him up That his abode with you seemeth rather to have been a remaining in an Academy than in any Captivity and thus he had been lost if he had not been lost Besides though we have the happiness to claim his Birth and Stemm ye have the claim of his Succession and Education He â—eing now matched with the Royall Blood of England in Marriage Thus his Liberty which we intreat for is a benefit to your selves and those Princes which shall claim the descent of his off-spring For if it should fall forth as what may not by the variable changes of Kingdomes come to pass that this Prince by Vsurpers and Rebells were disgarnished of his own Crown they are your Swords which should brandish to set him on his Royall throne We expect that as ye have many wâ—ies rendred him yours ye will not refuse to engage Him yet more by his Liberty which â—e must acknowledge wholly and freely to receive from you and by benefits and and love to overcome a King is more than by force of Arms. And since he was not your Priâ—oner by chance of Warr having never raised Arms against you but by way of Protection detained here and entertained so ye will respecting your ancient honour and Generosity send him freely back to his own yet if it be so that ye will have acknowledgemâ—nt for what ye have bestowed on his education the distress of the present estate of his Subjects and Crown considered We will not stand upon triâ—les of Money for the Redemption of a Prince above all price The Lords of the Council were diverse waies inclined to this Embassie some thought it not fit to dismiss him For his remaining in England seemed the more to assure the kingdome of Scotland unto them having the King and his children in their custody what dared they not enterprise or not bring to pass Or if Scotland should plot any thing by way of Rebellion the King having his party within the Realm by the assistance of the English would keep under the other Factions and thus the Estate by both being made weak it would be a fair breach for a Conquest and the annexing that Kingdome to the Crown of England That he knew too much of the Estate and affairs of England to be sent away to a Nation ever their Enemies That being at liberty and amongst his own he might resent the injury of his long restraint Others of the Council thought it best to dismiss hiâ— They had learned by experience that the keeping of the King of Scots hindered no waiâ—s the Scots from assisting the French yea rather that it did exasperate their choller and make them in Revenge addict themselves wholly to the French the Governour no waies keeping to the English and siding the French upon whom to be revenged they could find no surer way than to set at liberty the King whose return of necessity must needs change the face of the State and trouble him As for the conquest of the Crown of Scotland it was not at that time of such moment for England they having the most part of France in their Subjection which was as much if not more as they could hold then it would prove a more harmless and sure purchase to make Scotland theirs by the Succession of Lady Iaâ—eâ— of Sommerset than by war the event whereof is ever doubtful and beyond any assurance of Man The Liberty of the King of Scots might prevent the encreasing strength of the Kings Enemies in France and sâ—cure the Peace and tranquillity of the Common wealth at home King Iames being all English by education If he proved not of their Party yet he must prove neutral to both the Kingdoms Henry the sixth then King of England being of under-age was governed by his three Uncles of his Fathers side Humphrey Duke of Glocester who was made Protector of his Person and Realm Iohn Duke of Bedford who was established Regent of France and Thomas Duke of Excester But Henry Beaufoord Cardinal Bishop of Winchester and Chancellor of England a man eminent in Blood and Riches Uncle to the Lady Iane in effect governed all These gave way rather then approved that the King of Scots should be set at liberty and sent home And though they would have dismissed him freely in respect of the Dowry of his Queen which was not delivered having use of present moneys for the maintenance of the Wars in France and the more to cover the injustice of his Captivity they thought it expedient to set a Ransom upon him The Commissioners having met it was declared that for a sufficient sum of moneys their King might return and enjoy his own Liberty the one half to be paid in hand able Hostages remaining in England till the other half was fully discharged The Ransom agreed upon was four hundred thousand Merks but by the power of the Cardinal the third was discharged for which he was long after accused before the King by the Duke of Glocester The Governour and Estate of Scotland having known the sum laid upon them for the Liberty of the King though the hasty acquiring of it was grievous unto them preferring Glory and things necessary to matters of money immediatly dispatched so much as could be gathered together
others Hereupon the Earls of Crawford Ross Murray Ormond the Lord Balvenny Knight of Cadyow many Barons Gentlemen with their Allies Vassals Servants to a great number subscribed and swore solemnly never to desert one another during life That injuries done to any one of them should be done to them all and be a common quarrel neither should they desist to their best abilities to revenge them That they should concur indifferently against whatsoever Persons within or without the Realm and spend their Lives Lands Goods Fortunes in defence of their Debates and Differences whatsoever This consederation and Covenant again â—enued turned the Earl imperious in his deportments presumptuous beyond all limits and his followers and adherents insupportable to their neighbours The Lands of such who were not of their party or refused to think all their thoughts and second them in their enterprizes were plundred and and goâ—dness was a cause to make men suffer most pillage and ransacking of their Goods and other miserable calamities At this time the Thieves and Robbers of Liddes-dale and Annandalâ— break into the Lands of Iohn Lord Herress a Noble Man who had continued constantly faithful to the King and drive with them a great booty of Cattel Complaints being given to the Earl of Douglass of the Depredations of his men and finding no redress the Lord Herress essayeth to drive the like prey â—nâ—â—compence of the damage but being unequal in power his fortune was to be taken by the Thieves and brought as a Pâ—isoner to the Earl who layed him fast in Irons and notwithstanding of the Kings Letters full of Intreaties and Threatnings without any formality of Law caused Hang him as a Felon The like mischief was practised in other places After this contempt of Soveraignty it was universally blazed that the Earl of Dowglass in respect of this new Covenant the power of his Kinsmen and Allies the entertaining of such who were discontent and discountenanced at Court the love and favor of the men of Arms in Scotland ever governed by some of his Name his riches the honor of his Ancestors had resolved to dissemble no longer but openly to play his game 〈◊〉 one day if he could set the Crown upon his own head being then able to raise an Army of Forty thousand warlike persons men ready to go with him whither or against whom they cared not attending onely the occasion and his Commandment The King who before but disdained the pride after this League became jealous of the Earl of Douglass a League giving a Law to a King breaking all Bonds of Soveraignty and inviting people to look for a new Master and though his modesty and patience served onely to turn the Earl more insolent and his boldness more active yet in a foul game he bare a fair countenance knowing the last thing which a Soveraign Prince should do is to show himself malecontent and offended with any of his Subjects for instead of chastising him he would give him fairer means and greater power to do him harm He would not shew a token of any prejudicial thought to the Earls proceedings till he had first heared himself Thus very calmly he desired him to come and speak with him at Sterlin whiles he conscious of his own misdemeanor except upon a publique assurance under the great Seal for his safe coming and return refused to do A safe conduct obtained about the Shrew-Tide in the year 1452. he came to the Court then remaining at Sterlin Castle 1452. accompanied with many of his Confederates and a powerful Retinue The King with a gracious countenance and all apparent respect received him endeavoring rather by kindness and humanity then by rigor to reclaim him to his former obedience The day near spent the Gates of the Castle shut all removed except some of the Councel and the Guards the King taking the Earl friendly apart remembred him of favors received wrongs forgotten the duties as a Subject he owed to his Prince his capitulation before he would come and speak with him he taxed him with the exorbitant abuses and out rages of his followers Then he told him what Informations he had of a Covenant of mutual defence adherence betwixt him and some of his Nobles Gentlemen which he would scarce believe He prayed him to consider the murmuring or rather begun sedition of his people his long patience in tolerating his proceedings his misbelief of evil reports towards him until he had heard what he had to say for himself and his innocency The Earl answered the Kings towardness in equal terms trusting much to his confederatiom for his favors he should strive with all obsequiousness to deserve them That as he had the honor to command others who obeyed him he knew very well how to be commanded and obey his Prince and in what disobedience consisted that as none of his Subjects enjoyed more Lands and Honors then himself there should not one be found who more willingly would engage all his Fortunes and person for the Honor of his Prince That they who layed snares for his life being so near his Majesty for the surety of his person he could not come to Court except upon a publique assurance and well accompanied For the wrongs committed by his Followers and Vassals he would give what satisfaction should be required Concerning the Band of mutual friendship betwixt him and some Noblemen they would have adhered together without any writing they were driven thereunto for their own safety not out of minde to offer but repel injuries That he was infinitely oblig'd to his goodness in not condemning him before he was heard and for that he had not lent a credulous ear to his enemies mischievous devices The King replyed effects and not words make the affection and submission of a subject known and could there be any greater surety for him then to rely on the Laws of the Commonwealth and Countrey especially continued he in a Countrey where Laws and not Faction rule and where a man 's own goodness is able to preserve him But such men as you are raise these Factions to the subvertion of all Laws and Authority and for Subjects to make an offensive and defensive League against all persons is to disclaim all Government and do what they please without controlment commit Treason in the highest degree and make your own Swords and Power justifie your proceedings which though ye first use against mean persons and conceal the progress of your actions for there are degrees in evil and wicked men begin at that which seemeth the least of evils or not an evil at all at the first your last aim is likely to be the robbing upon the Crown Consider my Lord ye are born under a Monarchy which admitteth no Soveraignty but it self and it is natural to Princes to hold it in highest esteem and in no case to suffer it to be shaken by their Subjects Take your Prince for your best protection and an
a day again in which he might have hazarded one Cast of a Dye for a whole Kingdom But his Fortune was now declined and perhaps would never stand upright that by giving that night to his Souldiers to pause and deliberate on the matter they would perchance take the safest way be more advised what to enterprise the next morning readily not fight at all consisting of a number of bold young Gentlemen Volunteers who for the most part out of bravery and compassion followed him That the Kings Army by his lingring and lying off was encouraged finding they were to cope with men who would adviseere they fought After which speeches he bad the Earl farewel And now knowing that the way lay open both for Pardon and Favor to him that would first seek it he in the night breaketh out with some friends and having got over the fields betwixt the two Camps was brought sately to the King who graciously received and freely pardoned him The Army having understood the clandestin Revolt and escape of Sir Iames Hamilton disbanded every man slipping away by secret passages to his own habitation that on the morrow there was nothing to be seen but the solitary field upon which they had encamped The King out of joy of this bloodless Victory caused Proclaim in all his chief Towns That since Soveraign Authority had no less splendor by the actions of Clemency then by these of Justice all those who had followed the Earl of Douglass and been of his party rather by mis-fortune and unadvised rashness then any evil will against him should be freely pardoned Those who would abandon the Earl and come to the Kings Camp whosoever they were no Justice no Law should trouble them but they should be received to mercy and have all pardon After this Proclamation many submitted themselves to the King and were pardoned though Sir Iames Hamilton was remitted yet that under colour of reconciliation worse mischief might not be plotted the King sent him with the Earl of Orkney to the Castle of Rossline during his pleasure and the taking in of the Castle of Abercorn remembring also it was some prejudice to a Prince to be obliged to any Rebel The Earl of Douglass gathering together the split pieces of his Ship-wrack with his Brothers and so many of his Confederates as would not forsake him flieth to England here with much Travel by many promises of Rewards great hopes of spoil gathering unto him a power of Out-laws Felons Bancker-outs and such as lived by Rapine as well of his own Nation as of the English he maketh a Rode upon the West Borders of Scotland some Villages being burnt many preys much spoil driven into England at last he meeteth with the valiant men who were appointed ro defend the Marches the Maxwells and Scots here in a furious skirmish his Companies are discomfited Archibald Earl of Murray's Brother is slain and his head sent to the King the Earl of Ormond is taken Prisoner himself with the Lord Balvenny with great difficulty escapeth in a Forest when he sought to return again into England he findeth all Passages stopped up the wayes layed for him and begining to feel much want he is constrained in a disguised habit to lurk meanly in the inmost parts of Scotland till he wandred toward the far High-lands where finding Donald Earl of Ross Lord of the Isles one of his League a man cruel arrogant unpolisht after many discourses and long conference with him being no less eloquent then active he possesseth him with great hopes after a division of the Kingdom between them two of an absolute power and Government of of all the High-lands besides the wealth and treasure which he would purchase by the spoil He requireth onely he would break upon the more civil Countries bring all the Fire-brands he could to kindle and trouble them and cut work for the King whilst he with new supplies and a great Army to be raised in England should invade the Marches and bordering Countries The Earl of Ross who thought nothing impossible to him being to himself in these barbarous parts by phantasie a King and was used to vaunt of a long pedegree from Fergus relisbeth the profit and possibility of this Enterprise sweareth to leave nothing undone for the accomplishing of it and parting with him upon mutual assurance intreateth onely celerity and swift performance of what they had concluded Scarce was the Earl of Douglass in England when the Earl of Ross the two pillars of his Designs being Injustice and Violence supported by fair hopes from the South with his wilde Mountainers and Islanders like an inundation over-runneth the Neighbor bounds Argile suffereth the first effects of their fury the Isle of Arrain is taken the Castle made a Bon fire as if they were the sacrifice for the sinns of the rest the Bishop of the Isles saveth himself by flight and taketh Sanctuary Lochquabar and Murryland are spoiled the Town of Innerness is set on fire the Castle surprized Murthers Ravishings Robberies with what insolency the barbarous Canibals could commit are every where and the sad image of death ravageth amongst the common people The Earl of Douglass now at his last shifts and efforts leaveth no shifts nor helps unsought out such who lived upon prey and spoil resort unto him he maketh hot inincursions and after a most hostile maner which purchased him the hatred of all his Countrey-men and turned those who were indifferent in his quarrel his professed enemies This ravage continuing Henry Earl of Northumberland after slain at Caxtoun-field whom love of the valor of the house of Douglass and true commiseration had brought to take arms with him invadeth one quarter of the Marsh and the Earl of Dowglass turneth towards another But whilest they are dispersed and more eager and intentive to carry away spoil then to look to their own safety and military discipline the Earl of Auguss with Sir Iames Hamilton of Cadyow put them both with number and confusion overborn to flight slaying many and taking more prisoners After this overthrow during the Kings reign the Earl of Douglass deliberating not to oppose longer to necessity but to be still till better times never attempted tempted to invade his Countrey Amidst these incursions the Earl of Ormâ—nd at Edinburgh is beheaded the Countess of Dowglass Beatrice all hopes being lost of restoring her Husband despoiled of her Lands and fair Heritage turned now a Monster of Fortune the blame of her unlawful Wedlock laid upon the Earl consented to â—y her out of a certain fear of her life submitteth her felt to the Kings Clemency The King who denied not mescy to any sought it of him that the less guilty amongst the seditious might withdraw themselves and the obstinate remain the less powerful and weak receiveth her and giveth her in Marriage to his Brother Iohn Earl of Athole son to the Black Knight of Lorne designing for her Dowry the Lordship of Balveny By her
and an aboliâ—ion for all was past and the Kings hand at it they doubted not to null and make it void All being done by a King constrained by a powerful Army and a close prisoner which writing could not oblige any private man far less a King what he then bargained was upon constraint and yielded unto upon hopes of saving his life and an act exacted by force The Duke of Albany finding by the malice and detraction of a malignant faction his brothers countenance altered towards him and danger the requital of his late setting him at liberty the established reconciliation being shaken by suspitions and fancy of revenge obeying necessity fled to his Castle of Dumbar out of which he came to England to present to King Edward and the Duke of Gloucester the consideration of his grievances In his absence he is convinced of many points of treason besides the being accessarie to the taking of Berwick by the English As his dangerous and long intelligence with the King of England his sending of many Messengers at all occasions unto him That without any safe-conduct or pass from his Brother and not so much as acquainting him he had left the Countrey come into England to devise conspiracies against his King and native Kingdom The Lord Creighton as his friend associate and complice is forefeited with him against whom Informations were given that often and divers times under the pretence of hunting secretly with the Duke at Albany he road into England and there meeting with Commissioners sent by King Edward he deliberated of matters concerning novations and of the altring the state That there he kept appointments with Iames Earl of Dowglass the often quench'd fire-brand of his Country That in spight of the Kings forces sent there to lie in Garrison he kept the Castle of Creighton The greatest discontent the King conceived against him was love to one of his Sisters and some feminine jealousies When the Duke understood the proceedings against himself and the Lord Creighton and that for their contumacy and not appearing to answer and give in their answer they were convict of Treason and their lands to be seased upon He caused give up the Castle of Dumbar of which he was Lieutenant to King Edward who immediately placed by Sea a Garrison in it About this time Edward King of England left this world 1483. and his brother Richard Duke of Gloucester did first take the name of Protector and Governor of the Kingdom of England and after his brothers Sons put in the Tower and their Mother the Queen taking Sanctuary in the moneth of Iune possest himself of the Crown The Duke of Albany finding that Richard by his change of Fortune had not changed his affection towards him imploreth his aid in restoring him to his own and repairing not his wrongs alone but a wrong done in his sufferings to the King of England sith there was now an open breach of the Truce and Peace so solemnly by him set down and confirmed by his Brother If he could be furnished but with a few number of choice men of reputation and power to pass into Scotland and take a tryal of the Minds and good will of his fâ—iends and confederates he douted not at his entring the Countrey to finde numbers who by his presence would hazzard upon the most desperate dangers Richard finding the man his Supplicant with whom he endeavoured once an intire frindship and whose advancement in Authority he had most studied condescendeth that five hundred men and Horses should be chosen upon the borders with others who were ontlawes and necessitated sometime to make incursions and with Iames the old Earl of Dowglase a man well known and renowned in the West-borders should make an in-road into Scotland The two and twentie day of Iuly the banished Champion having chosen a good number of their borderers put forward towards Loch Maben to surprize a Fair spoil a publick Market seise upon all the Buyers and Sellers which here meet and traffick every St. Magdalens festival under pretence of Devotion and the liberty of trading many English had hither relsorted at the twelfth hour of the day when the Merchants and Countrey-people were in greatest security the burâ—e is invaded and not bloud but wares sought after the Lard of Iohnstoun who was warden and lard of Cock-pool with many stout borderers having surveyed and Ridden through the places where the people were met to prevent and hinder all disorders and dangers at the noise of an incursion of the English dispatch Poasts to the adjacent bounds for supply and in the mean time rencounter the plunderers of the Fair. Here is it fought with greater courage than force and in a long continued skirmish the danger of the loss stir'd up and incited the parties as much as fame and glory The day was neer spent leaving the advantage to either side disputable when the supply of fresh men come to defend their Countrey and friends turned the Fortune of the fight and put the English borders all to the rout The Duke of Albany by the swiftness of his Horse and the good attendance of his Servants winneth English ground but the Earl of Dowglass loaden and heavy with years and armes is taken by Robert Kirken-patrick who for that service got the lands of Kirk-michael and brought as in triumph to Edenburgh It is recorded that when the Earl was come in the Kings presence he turn'd his back refused to look him in the face considering the many outrages he had perpetrated against his Father and this late offence The King taken with the goodly personage gravity and great age of the man commiserating his long patience and cross fortune being in his young daies designed to be a Church-man confined him as in a free Prison in the Abacy of Lyndores Besides he considered that when occasion served he might bring him out of this solitariness and in these turbulent times by his counsel and presence play more advantageously his game of State being a man of long experience in the affairs of the world and the most learned of all his Nobility He was now become tyred of the Earl of Anguss the remembrance of his first offence remaining deeply ingraven in his heart and to counterpoise his greatness this was the only weight The Duke of Albany found little better entertainment in England the battel being lost some men taken and killed this being the first roade upon Scotland under the reign of Richard who had been formerly so fortunate in his own person his fame injur'd and reputation by this diminished the Duke began to be disliked and was not received with that kindness he was wont whereupon by the assistance and convoy of Iohn Liddale he secretly retired to France After the road of Lochmaben sundry incursions are made by the Scots upon the English borders and by the English upon the Scottish The Champian ground is scoured houses are burnt booties taken with great loss to
both and little advantage to any of the parties Richard having his reign in the infancy and not yet settled nor come to any growth and maturity being obnoxious to the scandal of his Brothers Sons and possessed with fears of Henry Earl of Richmond then remaining in France who by all honest and good men was earnestly invited to come home and hazard one day of battail for a whole Kingdom knowing it necessary for the advancement of his designs to have peace with all his neighbour Princes to render himself more secure and safe at home and terrible to his enemies abroad sendeth Embassadours to Scotland to treat a Peace or a suspension of Arms for som years King Iames no soflier rocked in the Cradle of State than Richard chearfully accepteth this Embassage for by a peace he may a little calm the stormy and wild minds of tumultuous Subjects reducing them to a more quiet fashion of living and seclude his Rebels and banisht from entertainment in England and all places of Refuge and Sanctuary The two Kings agreeing in substance Commissioners are appointed to meet at Nottingham the seventeenth day of September For the King of Scotland appear'd the Earl of Arguâ—l William Elphinstoun Bishop of Aberdeen the Lord Drummond of Stobhall the Lord Olyphant Archebald Whitelaw Secretary Doncan Dundass Lyon King of Arms. For Richard of England appeared the Duke of Norfolk the Earl of Northumberland the Lord Stanley the Lord Gray the Lord Fitshugh Iohn Gunthrope privy Seal Thomas Borrow Master of the Rolls Sir Thomas Bryan Chief Justice In the latter end of Septemb. these conclude a peace between both Realms for the space of 3 years The same to begin at the rising of the Sun Septem â—9 in the year 1484. and to continue unto the setting of the Sun on the 29. of Sept. in the year 1487. During which time it was aggreed that not only all hostility and war should cease between the two Realms but that also all aid and assistance against enemies should be afforded It was agreed the Town and Castle of Berwick should remain in the hands of the English for the space of the foresaid term with the same bounds the English possessed That all other Castles Holds Fortresses during the term of thrâ—e years should remain in the hands of those that held then at that present the Castle of Dumbar only excepted which the Duke of Albany delivered to the English when he left his Countrey Which Castle for the space of six moneths should be exposed to the invasion of the Scots if they could obtain it and during the assaulting of this Castle the Truce shâ—uld not be broken Neither should the English within the castle do any harm to the Scots dwelling thereabouts except to those who invade the Castle and at that time And that it should be lawful to any of the Parties to use all Statagems and extend their power either for winning or defending the said Castle It was agreed That no Traitor of either Realm should be received by any of the Princes of the other Realms and if any Traitor or Rebell chance to arrive in either Realm the Prince therof should deliver him upon demand made Scots abiding within the Realm of England and sworn there to the King may remain still so there names be made known to the King of Scotland within fourty daies If any Warden of either Realm shall invade the others Subjects he to whom such a Warden is subject shall within six daies proclaim him Traitor and certifie the other Prince thereof within twelve daies In every safe conduct this Clause shall be contained Providing alwaies that the Obtainer of the safe Conduct be no Traitor If any of the Subjects of either Prince do presume to aid and help maintain and serve any other Prince against any of the Contractors of this Truce Then it shall be lawful for him to whom he shewed himself enemy to apprehend and attach the said Subject comming or tarrying within any of their Dominions Collegues comprehended in the Truce if they would assent thereunto on the English part were the King of Castile the King of Arragon the King of Portugal the Arch-Duke of Austria and Burgundy the Duke of Bretaign Vpon the Scottish part Charles King of Denmvrk and Norway The Duke of Guilderland this treaty was appointed to be published the first of October in all the great and notable Towns of both Realms It was agreed that Commissioners should meet at Loch-maben the 18. of November as well for redress of wrongs done on the west Marcbes as for declaring and publishing the peace where the greatest difficultie was to have it observed Richard after this truce intreated a marriage between the Prince of Rothsay eldest Son to King Iames and Lady Anne dela Pool Daughter to Iohn Duke of Suffolk of his Sister To this effect Embassadours meet at Nottingham others say at York and it is concluded Writings thereupon being drawn up ingrosled and seal'd And affiances made and taken up by Proctors and Deputies of both parts Lady Anne thereafter being stiled the Princess of Rothsay But by the death of her Uncle she injoyed not long that title After the league and intended marriage King Iames wrote friendly letters to Richard concerning the Castle of Dumbar Whether he could be content that the same should remain only six moneths in the power of the English or during the whole space of True That he was not minded to seek it by arms during the term of the whole Truce Notwithstanding he earnestly required out of the bond of Love and Frindship between them since it was given unto the English by Treason and neither surprised nor taken in lawful war it might be frindly rendred Richard dalâ—yd with him and pass'd away that purpose with complemental Letters all the time of his Government which was not long for the year 1486. Henry Earl of Richmond came with some companies out of France of which that famous Warriour Bernard Sâ—uart Lord Aubany Brother to the Lord Darnley in Scotland had the leading which by the resort of his Countrey men turned into an Army and rencountred Richard at Bosworth where he was killed and Henry proclaimed King of England To which victory it was uncertain whether virtue or fortune did more contribute Alexander Duke of Albany before this disaster of Richard at a Tilting with Lovys Duke of Orleance by the splint of a Spear in his head had received his death-wound 1483 He was a man of great courage an enemy to rest and peace delighting in constant changes and novations He left behind two Sons Iohn Duke of Albany begotten of his second marriage upon the Earl of Bulloignes Daughter who was Tutor to King Iames the fifth and Governour of Scotland and Alexandâ—r born of the Earl of Orkenays Daughter his first wife Bishâ—p of Murray and Abboâ— of Skroon Into which places he was intruded to make the Government of his other Brother more peaceable Margarite the Queen
Government to a better form for that the Kingdom was oppressed with insupportable grievances the King being altogether given to follow the advice projects and counsels of base men to amass and gather great sums of money from his people upon which he studied to maintain his Court and State and give away his own When the Engin was prepared for the people and spread abroad they sent to the Earl of Dowglass then closely as a Monck shut up in the Abby of Lyndores to come out be of the Party and assist them with his Counsel and Friends promising if their attempt had happy Success to restore him again to his ancient possessions and Heritage former dignitys and the Places of honour of his Ancestors The Earl whom time and long experience had made wary and circumspect having a suspition the Earl of Angus who possessed the greatest part of his estate had been the chief motioner of this liberty and that rather to try what he would do then that he minded really to set him free refused to come out of his Cloister And by his letters disswaded them from their bold enterprize against their Prince wishing they would set his house and himself for a pattern precedent of Rebellion He sent to all such of his Friends whom his disasters had left unruined to take arms for the King as the Dowglasses of Kayvers and others The King neither losing courage nor councel for the greatness of the danger of the Rebellion trusting much to his good fortune with such forces as came with him from the North in Captain Woods Ships and other Boats and Vessels prepared to that end passeth the Forth near the Blackness an old Fortress and Sea port in West Lothian not far from the Castle of Abercorn and that place where the Forces of the Earl of Dowglass left him and the King his Father obtained so harmless a victory Before the arrival of the King at this Place the Earls of Montross Glencarn Lords Maxwell and Ruthven with others advertised by Letters of the Rendevouz had come to the Place had encamped and were attending him And he mustered a sufficient Army to rencounter the Lords of the association who from all quarters were assembled having with them the Prince to add Authority to their quarrel The two Armies being in readiness to decide their indifferences by a Battail the Earl of Athole the Kings Uncle so travailed between the Lords of either party and the King that a suspention of Armes was agreed upon and reconcilement and the Earl of Athole rendered himself a pledge for the accomplishing of the Kings part of the reconcilement to the Lord Haylles and was sent to be kept in the Castle of Dumbar This was not a small fault of this Prince the Confederates forces were not at this time equall to his neither had they essayed to hinder the landing of his Army being but in gathering the Castle of Blackness was for his defence and his Ships traversing up and down the Forth in case of necessity for succour That if he had hazarded a battail he had been neer to have recovered all that reputation he had before lost Now upon either side some common Souldiers are disbanded some Gentlemen licensed to return to their own dwelling places The King in a peaceable manner retireth to the Castle of Edenburgh The Earl of Athole was now removed from him and many of the other Lords who loved him returned to their houses the Counsel of man not being able to resist the determinations of God The Lords suspecting still the King to be implacable in their behalf and unaccessible in his Castle keeping the Prince alwaies with them entring upon new meditations hold sundry meetings how to have his person in their power and make him a prey to their ambitious designs The Town of Edinburgh is pestered with troups of armed men the Villages about replenished with Soldiours The King warned of his danger fortifies of new the Castle of Edenburgh for his defence and is brought to such a tameness that resolving to do that with love of every man which he feared in end he should be constrained unto with the universal hatred of all and his own damage and danger out of a passive fortitude sent Commissioners indifferent Noble men to the Lords and his Son to understand their intentions and what they meant Why his Son was kept from him and continued the head of their faction Why his Uncle was so closely imprison'd and himself as it were blocked up by their tumultuous meetings in Arms He was content they should have an abolition of all that was past that their punishments should not be infinitely extended and that they should think upon a general agreement after the best and fittest manner they could devise and set it down They finding their offences flew higher than hope of pardon could ascend unto Their suspitions and the conscience of their crime committed breeding such a distrust out of an apprehension of fear answered that they found no true meaning Open war was to be preferred to a peace full of deceit danger and fears that being assured he would weave out his begun projects against them they could not think of any â—afety nor have assurance of their lives nor fortunes unless he freely resigned the title of his Crown and Realm in favour of his Son and voluntarily deposed himself leaving the Government of the People and Kingdome to the Lords of his Parliament divesting himself wholly of his Royall dignity Neither would they come to any submission or capitulation until he consented to this main point and granted it submissivelye King Iames notwithstanding of this answer after a cleer prospect of the inconveniences and mischiefs which were growing and the many injuries indignities and affronts put upon him yet really affecting a peace sought unto Henry King of England as also to the Pope and King of France to make an attonment between him and his Subjects The King accordingly interposed their Mediation in a round and Princely manners not only by way of request and perswasion but also by way of protestation and menace declaring that they thought it to be the common cause of all Kings if Subjects should be suffered to give Lawes unto their Soveraign a ligitimate King though a Tyrant was not subordinate to the Authority of Subjects Iames was not a Tyrant his errours proceeding most part form youth and evil Counsel That suppose the King had done them wrong it was not wisely done for a desire of revenge to endanger their particular Estates and the peace and standing of the whole Kingdome What State was there ever so pure but some corruption might creep into it That they should be very ment too far That they would accordingly resent and revenge it Rage prevailing against Reason and fears the Lords made that same answer to these Embassadours which they had sent to the King himself before As for the Popes Embassy which was sent by Adrian de
Counsel answered though their number encreased to as many more as they were he with that remainder of his Army would fight them That advantages were to be imbraced according to the occasion of the fight without tedious deliberation if any man was afraid he might if he pleased return Home A strange Resolution in a Prince who imagined every man in his Army to have the same strength courage boldness and resolution with himself This answer astonished the Nobility and since they could not perswade him to a fair retreat but that he will fight and that without the advantage of the Bridge being inferiour in number to the English for they were reckoned by the Scouts fix and twenty thousand they fortify themselves according to the Commoditie of the Hill where they lay encamped with a resolution not to suffer the King to hazard his person in the battel If victory should incline to them their Gains were but smal and Glory less extending but over some few of the Nobility and a small parcel of the Body of the State of England a number of yeomen and pressed Horsemen the flower of the Kingdom being in France But if they were overthrown theirloss would prove uncoÌ„parable yea unspekable a martial yong King either kâ—l'd taken or put to flight wherfore they think it fitting not necessary the King be pleased with so many as either chance or election might separate with him to be a Spectator of the fortune of the day To this the King replyed he neither wanted ability to discharge the part of a Souldier nor wisdom to command as a General and to outlive so many valiant Countrey-men would be more terrible to him than death it self When forced to give way for his personall presence in the field they appoint some to be arraied in like furniture of Arms and a like Guard as the King Shadows to perâ—onate him in sundry quarters of the field that the enemy should not set one man as their chief mark to invade from whose death the victory and conclusion of the war might depend and if the King should fall the Army should not lose courage nor be brought to believe he were lost so long as they saw a General with his Coignoscance and Guard present and neer them to be a witness of their valour and atchievements as not long before at the battel of Fornou in Italy had been practiced by the French to their king Charles the eight By this time the Earl of Surrey with the power of the North of England was come within three miles of the Place where the Scottish Army was encamped and perceiving he could not but with great disadvantage fight them he sendeth an Herauld requiring the King to come forth of his strength to some indifferent ground where he would be ready to encounter him The King being forward to condescend to this request the Lords cryed out it was madness to accept of opportunity of fighting from his Enemies and to set all at a main chance according to their appointment it being their advantage to prolong time and trifle with him in whose Camp there was already scarcity of victuals which ere long might put him to such a stand that he should not know well what to do Neither was it likely he could be furnished from the inner parts of the Countrey by reason of the cumbersom waies for carriage to pass after the falling of so great and continued rains and the softning of the Ground that by sitting still and committing nothing to Fortune he might have his enemy at his pleasure if they dared assail him at their perils be it He lacked nothing but patience to be victorious The Scots keeping their Trenches the earl essayeth to draw them out and the ninth of September removing his Camp marcheth towards the same Hill of Flowden where they lay encamped his Vant-guard with the Cannon passeth the water of Till at Twysel bridge the Reer-ward going over at Mylnfoord King Iames seeing them pass the water imagineth they meant to win a Hill between his Camp and them To prevent which setting fire to the Cabâ—nes raised of boughs of Trees and Reeds he removeth to another Hill before the English could observe his motion the smoak darkning the aire between the two Armies Whilst the Scottish Army was removing the English advance to the foot of Flowden hill by which they have double advantage the Scottish ordinance could not much annoy them they marching upwards and under the level thereof again by their shot they might easily gall their enemies as they came downwards upon them The fatal hour of the Battel approaching the English draw up in good order six and twenty thousand men some write thirty in two Battails any of which was equall in number to the whole Scottish Army Thomas Lord Howard Admirall had the Vant-guard of which Sir Edmond Howard his Brother led one of the wings and Sir Marmuduke Constable the other The Lords Dacres and Cliffoord with Sir Edward Stanley kept the Rear the Earl of Surrey with Latymer Scroop Sir Stephen Bull kept the main Battail The Scots by their fewness of number not being able to order many Battailons marshal themselves in four three of which should enter in fight and the fourth attend for supply The King kept the middle or main Alexander Gordoun Earl of Huntley had the right wing of the Van the Earls of Crawford and Montross led the other and some have recorded the Lord Hume The third Army was guided by Matthew Earl of Lennox and the Earl of Arguyl where was Mackenney and Mackclean with the fierceness of the High-landers Adam Hepburn Earl of Bothwell with his Friends and the flower of the Gentry of Lothian kept off for suddain dispatches and chances of the Battel The Earl of Huntley making down the Hill where they encamptneer the foot of Branx Town encountreth that Wing of the English Host which was led by Sir Edmond Howard which after a furious and long fight he put to flight and so eagerly pursued the advantage that Sir Edmond had either been killed or taken if he had not been rescued by Bastard Hieron and the Lord Dacres the Battaillon which the Earls Lennox and Arguyl led being High-land men encouraged with this first glance of victory loosing their Ranks abandoning all order for ought that the French Ambassadour La Motte by signs threatnings clamours could do to them brake furiously upon the enemy and invade him in the Face of whom they are not onely valiantly received but by Sir Edward Stanleys traversing the Hill enclosed câ—t down at their backs and prostate The Middle ward which the King led with which now the Earl of Bothwell with the power of Lothian was joined sought it out couragiously body against body and Sword to Sword Numbers upon either side falling till darkness and the black shadows of the Night forced as it were by consent of both a Retreit Neither of them understanding the fortune of the day
reach it affecting rather to give a stranger the place than a Competitor bringing in the French to equal the ballance as principal himself only as accessory nothing doubting of a chief place in State as well for his forwardness in this election as for the necessity of his Service which the French could not well want and should never be lacking He feared aslo if the faction of the Dowglasses prevail'd the greatness of the Earl of Anguss would be an umbrage to his and lessen and impair it Their Lands and Fortunes lying neer to other as that the Queen by her power in England would cross his fâ—irest projects The King of England had sent a Letter to the Lords of Scotland as he had done to the French King for that same effect remonstrating how dangerous it was for the State of Scotland and young King if they should make choise of the Duke of Albany Notwithstanding of all which through ambition malice envy of others discords amongst themselves they made choise of this Gentleman a stranger by his education and birth ignorant of the nature and manners of the Scots whose Father was banished for Treason against his Brother and dyed unrestored One altogether devoted to the French King and an enemy to the English not caring to keep the Countrey of Scotland in Warrs and Troubles so he might defend the French Nation by making the Scots fight their battels After many private Letters from his Friends in Scotland especially from the Chamberlin inviting him to come home and accept his new dignity the Duke at last is required by the State and Lyon King of Arms is directed to him to acquaint him with their proceedings and make him forward on his way He to endear his comming and make himself the more desired of the People excusing his stay for a while which he laid upon the Treaty of Peace which was then to be agreed upon between England and France by the marriage of Lovys the French King with Mary the youngest Sister of Henry King of England which required his presence sendeth home the King of Arms with Letters from the French King with Sir Anthony Darcea le Siâ—ur de la Beautie This man propounded certain conditions which the Duke required What should be the form of his Government his Guards what Castles should be delivered to him for his Garrisons the restoring his patrimony and Fathers dignities to him Which particularities being condescended unto to Castle of Dumbar was instantly delivered to la Beautie to be kept for a French Garrison at the Dukes comming and Sir Patrick Hamilton Brother to the Earl of Arran Iames Oguilbuy Abbot of Arborth with the King of Arms were sent back again to France After their arrival the Duke of Albany furnished with all necessaries by the French King with eight well rigged Ships took the Seas and in the moneth of May arrived on the West coasts of Scotland from whence with a great retinue of the Nobles and Barons of the Countrey by easie journeys the Queen meeting him he came to the Town of Edinburgh In the Parlament which had been porogued for his comming the Duke accepted the Government and gave his oath of fidelity to the King and Countrey and the three Estates gave their oath of obedience to him and both swore in the administration of Justice neither should be deficient to others Here is he restored to all his Fathers inheritance titles and honours Being declared Dukes of Albany Earl of March and Governour of the Kingdom till the Kings full maturity Many Laws are made for the weal of the Kingdom and to gratifie his Linnage Iames the naturall Sonne of Iames the fourth is created Earl of Murray At the presence of this new Governour the face of the State turned more beautiful and the Court more Royall opprâ—ssion is restrained justice sincerely executed the Court is frequented with good and virtuous men Malefactours and naughty persons banish themselves He maketh a progress to all the notable Towns of the Kingdom seeing crimes punished and faults amended Being a Stranger and not throughly acquainted with the municipal Statutes and particular practises of the Countrey in matters great and of importance he proceedeth by the instructions and informations of some choice men of the Nation it self Especially since he was not infinite to listen to the advice of every one he gave himself to hearken and follow the opinion and counsell of Iohn Hepburn Priour of St. Andrews whose judgement in his greatest difficultiâ—s he receives as an Oracle This man being of a subtle wind malitious crafty rich and endued with some Courtly eloquence by a counterfeit Pretence of knowledge of the affairs of the Kingdom and State neither in some things did he err at first being very familiar with the Duke and in a little time after by bribing secretly some of his choise Servants turned his only Privado and almost possessed alone his judgement and ear He informed him of the strength and Riches of the Countrey of the nature ot the people manner of theri Laws revealed to him many secrets of the Government He gave him a Catalogue of the whole deadly fewds and divisions amongst the Noble men and Gentry opening unto him which were inveterate and had long continued and wâ—ich were fresh upon what accidents they had their beginnings How in prosecuting Revenge in them they cared not how innocent any man was if he were of the Name and Alliance but rather thought the more innocent any was the more it testified their spight which they desired to manifest by taking him away He shewed him what factions were in the Kingdom who sway'd them and were the heads He told him the Scots were a violent fierce people muâ—inously proud and knew not how to obey without the Sword were drawn That they were never absolutely governed by their own Kings themselves far less would they be ruled by him who was but a Governour and half a Stranger King Iames the first they had killed they had made a League against King Iames the second in open Battel they had overthrown King Iames the third and the last King was be best judgements thought to have been secretly taken away here calling to mind the proclaiming of the Arch-bishop Andrew Formans Bull he omitted nothing could derogate to the Chamberlains reputation and honour and an evil opinion of him in the Governour He instructed him how the great Houses of Scotland were so joined and linkt together by kinred alliances Bonds of service or Homage that no Gentleman of any quality although a Malefactor and a guilty person could be presented to justice without some stir commotion tumult of the Grandees and their factious friends Amidst so many strong parties and confederate male-contents the Governor by the power of the Scots themselves and his own Kindred Friends and Followers were not powerful enough â—afely to administer justice for which cause the King of France should be implored to send hither competent
favored the Dowglasses and Humes to perswade them to a Return giving them fair promises of obtaining what they should demand Till at last he removed them to bow and yield to his desires The fugitive Gentlemen returnd but the Queen being with child and near the time of her delivery was necâ—ssitated to stay still till at Harbottle Castle she brought forth her daughter Margarite after Grand-mother to Iames King of Britain So soon as she was able to endure travel and be transported King Henry with an honourable retinue brought her to his Court where she was by him and his Sister Mary late Queen of France welcomed In May she made her progress through London to Baynards Castle and from thence to Greenwich The Contrivers of the exploit of transporting the King to England being within the Country and as it were secure the Governor whose head was filled with suspitions not thinking himself bound by promises will have them give a reckoning of their enterprize and flight into England Against some he hath clear proofs fair and manifest evidences aganist other bare surmises and naked suspitions for they had not left the Country nor had they been partakers of the Queens fortunes Here with an unexspected suddenness M. Gaven Dowglas Uncle to the Earl of Angus Bishop of Dunkel Mr. Patrick Panther Secretary to the late King were committed Mr Gaven in the Castle of St. Andrews Mr. Patrick in Garvet Castle The Lord Drummond grand-Father to the Earl of Angus having beaten a Lyon Herault who too imperiously had given a charge to answer such things should be objected against him was imprisoned in the Castle of Blackness Alexander Lord Hume being charged to answer for his actions and proceedings and not appearing was denounced Rebel his moveables seised on and brought to the Exchequer Stir'd up and irritated by this outrage he maketh Roads upon the neighbour bounds plundereth Dumbar which was the Governors chief resort and to revenge his wrongs setteth on work the Robbers on the borders To repress and bridle this ravaging the Governor in person with a thousand hardy Souldiers marcheth to the Borders directeth some companies to find out the Lord Hume but he either dismaid at the worth and fortune of the Governor or broken and bowing under the burthen of his won miseries commeth to the Governor and submitted his life and estate to his faith and clemency brought to Edinburgh he is trusted to the custody of Iames Earl of Arran the Husband of his Sister with threatnings under pain of High Treason that he should not part with him nor suffer him to escape The Lord Hume had not long staid in the Castle of Edinburgh when with glosses of probalityes of changes casual and such as might fall forth he moved the Earl of Arran to be of his Mind and brought him to conspire against the Governor and hazard to put himself in his place of State He himself was the only man who had brought in the Governor and he knew well how to put him out if the Earl would be of the Party and by his negligence nor reject a Supream honor thrown in his arms He is begun already not to be lov'd if he was not already hated by the subjects bâ— his imperious proceedings If the King of England could find some few Noblemen to make head against him he would constrain him to leave the Country The Earl of Arran was neerest heir to the King it was more reason he should be second in the Kingdom than Iohn who though descended of a brother yet a banisht man and a stranger to the Scots Nation with whom they had not so much as intercourse and famiâ—iarity of language After many such like imducements the Prisoner took away his Keeper with him to the South parts of the Country and both by Letters to their Familiar Kinred and acquaintance and private meetings with other Noblemen strove to make strong and increase their faction In the beginning of the Spring Iohn Stuart Earl of Lennox the Sisters son of the Earl of Arran listed himself in the party of the conspiring Lords and with a number of his Friends and Followers invested the Castle of Galsgow which if they could have kept had been a great advancement to their intentions But the Governor gathering an Army of as many as hast would suffer him to assemble the Defenders not being strong enough to resist him recovered the Castle with small loss of his men After which in indignation he marched to throw down the Castle of Hamilton here victorious anger was conquer'd by pitty and compassion for the old Countess of Arran being at that time there resident who was daughter to King Iames the second Sister to King Iames the third mother to the Earl of Arran Grand-mother to the Earl of Lennox Aunt to the Governour a Lady venerable for years and virtues with tears of affection and sorrow falling down at the Governors feet and received by him with great commiseration in a merciful manner not only preserv'd the Castle but by the means of the Arch-bishop Andrew Forman entered into a Treaty for peace to her Son and the Earl of Lennox And in November the two Earls comming to Edenburgh by the means of this Arch-Bishop were reconciled with the Governor About this time his Mother being far from him to discharge the last duties of affection towards him Alexander Duke of Rothsay brother to the King a child to â—â—miration beautiful and Delightful dyed at Sterlin and was buryed in the Abby Church of Cambuskenneth The term of Peace between the two Kingdomes being almost expir'd and both having a desire to continue it the English sent their Commissioners to Coldingham to whom the Duke then resident at Dumbar sent Monsieur du Plains Embassador for the French King Sir William Scot of Balweary and Gaven Dumbar Arch-Dean of Saint Andrews These after some altercation concerning the Scottish Fugitives conclude a Peace between the Nations from the midst of Ianuary till the feast of Whitsuntide after The English comprehended in the Articles the Earl of Anguss the Lord Hume and the rest of the Queens strayed Faction with all their Kinsmen Clients and Followers The Lord Hume was received again into the Governours favor with condition that if he after break his promises and oaths his old faults should be remembred and joined to his new Master Gaâ—en Dowglasâ— and Mr. Partrick Panther were set a Liberty The Lord Drummond who had been 〈◊〉 was again restored the Eaâ—l of Angâ—ss with these who had followed him with many câ—remonies and great store of Friâ—ndship was welcomed again to the Court. The Disorders of the Kingdom called a Parlament in which many acts were made to restrain and keep under bold and wickedmen and preserve the peace of the Kingdom In this Parlament it was Ordained the Kings Brother Alexander being deceaâ—ed that the Governour should be reputâ—d second person of the Realm and next heir to the Crown Notwithstanding of the
Streets out of Windows furnished him he invested a part of the Town and barricadoed some Lanes with Carts and other impediments which the time did afford The adverse party trusting go their number and the supply of the Citizens who calling to mind the slaughter of their Deacon shew them small favour disdaining the Earl should thus muster on the Streets in great fury invade him Whilst the bickering continued and the Town is in a Tumult William Dowglas brother to the Earl of Angus Sir David Hume of Wedderburn George Hume brother to the late Lord with many others by blood and Friendship tyed together enter by violence the East Gate of the Town the Citizens making small resistance force their passage through the throngs seek the Earls enemies find them scoure the streets of them The Master of Montgomery eldest Sonne to the Earl of Eglintoun Sir Patrick Hamiltun Brother to the Earl of Arran with almost fourscour more are left dead upon the place The Earl himself findeth an escape and place of retreat through a Marsh upon the North side of the Town The Chancelour and his retinue took Sanctuary in the Dominican Fryers the tumult by the slaughter of some and flight of others appeased the Earl of Angus now freed of danger licensed all who pleased without further pursuit peaceably to leave the Town of Edenburgh and return to their own Houses Some daies after the Humes well banded and backed with many Nobles and Gentlemen of their linage by the Earl of Angus consent took the Lord Humes and his brothers heads from the place where they had been fixt and with the funeral Rites of those times interr'd them in the Black-Fryers The Earl of Angus having angled the peoples hearts by his Magnificence Wisdom Courage and Liberality his Faction began to bear greatest sway in the Kingdom For the continuance of which the King of England dealt most earnestly with the French King to keep the Duke of Albany still in France with him But the French had contrary designs And when the Duke understood the great discords of the Nobility of Scotland persons of Faction being advanced to places dangerous immunities being granted to the Commons France and England beginning to be tyred of their Peace and preparing for a new war to curb the Scottish Factions keep the Nation in quietness in it self by giving the Subjects other work abroad whilst common danger should break of particular discords Notwithstanding of the English Ships which lay in wait to take him after he had been about five years in France in November he arrived on the west coasts of Scotland at a place named Garloch The Governour comming to Edenburgh set himself to amend the enormities committed in his absence the Magistrates of the Town are deposed because in the late uproar they had been evil seconds to the Lords of the west when they went to surprize the Earl of Angus A Parliament is called to which many Noblemen and Gentlemen are cited to make appearance in February to be tryed and to answer for offences committed by them in the Governours absence The appointed time being come these who appeared not were indicted and â—led into England Amongst which and the chief were the Humes and Cockburns men Authors and accessary to the death of Sir Anthony Darcey The tyde now turning and mens affections changed the Earl of Angus with his brother Sir George Dowglâ—s by the intercession of the Queen are constrained to seek a Pardon which was obtained for them but with the condition that they should leave the Countrey and stay in France one whole year which they obeyed Others have recorded they were surprized in the night and in French Ships conveyed privately away Mr. Gaven Dowglas Bishop of Dunkell in the absence of his Nephew finding the Governour violent in the chase of the Faction of the Dowglasses fled privately to the Court of England where he gave informations to King Henry against him He alone had taken to him the custody of the young King the sequel wâ—ereof he much feared he was an irreconciliable enemy to the whole Family of the Dowglasses The principal cause of his comming to Scotland was to engage the Nation in a War against England that the English Should not assist the Emperour against the French King and make his Nation slaves to France This Bishop shortly after dyed at London and was buryed in the savoy Church having been a man noble valiant learned and an excellent Poet as his works yet extant testifie The King of England upon such informations sent Clarencieux King of Arms to Scotland to require the Duke to avoid the Country according to the Articles agreed upon between the French King and him in their last truce It belonged said Clarencieux to his Master to tender the life wellfare honour fortunes of his Nephew of none of which he could be assured so long as the Duke ruled and stayed in Scotland It was against all reason and unbeseeming the man should be sole Guardian to a King who was the next heir to the Crown how easily might he be tempted by opportunity to commit the like unnatural cruelty which some have done in the like case both in England and other parts of Europe if he loved his Nation and Prince as he gave out he required him to leave the Country which if he yield not unto but obstinately continued in a re resolution to stay he denounced from his Master present war He farther complained Thâ—t the Earl of Anguss who was King Henries Brother-in Law was by him banisht and detained in France That during the banishment of the Earl which had been neer a whole year the Duke had impâ—tuned his Sister the Queen with dishonest love The Governour answered Clarencieux That what the Kings of France and England agreed upon in their Treaties of Peace was to him uncertain but of this he was most certain That neither the King of England nor France had power to banish him a Forainer over whom their authority did not reach his native country like over like having no jurisdiction As concerning the King of Scotland who was yet young in years he reverenced him as his soveraign Lord and would keep and defend both him and his Kingdome according to his Conscience honour and bound duty that there were ever more men in the world who desired to be Kings than there were Kingdomes to be bestowed upon them of which number he was none having ever preferred a mean estate justly enjoyed before a Kingdome evil acquired For the Earl of Angus he had used all Courtesies towards him notwithstanding of his evil demerits not for his own sake he did confess but for the Queens sake whom he honoured and respected as the Mother of his Prince and towards whom he should continue his observance That the King of England needed not misdoubt he would attempt any thing should derogate from the honour of his sister that complements of meer curtesie in France might
if a peace in this mean time were not concluded with England he would the next Summer bring such War-like Briggades of French and Germans that he should not stand much in need of his own Countreymen who had continued so refractory and backward to his designs He demanded from King Francis five thousand German Horsemen and ten thousand foot to be transported to Scotland which with the Scots who would accompany him he thought sufficient to continue a War with England The French could not spare so many men having Wars both with the Emperour and the English but they gave him three thousand Pikes and one thousand Launces The Governour intending to return to Scotland receiving intelligence that the Ports towards the coasts of France were watched by the English to intrap him in his passage bestowed his Ships so covertly here and there in small companies to avoid all suspition of any purpose he had to stir that year as that thereupon the English Fleet under the Conduct of Sir William Fitz-Williams which had attended and waited his comming forth untill the Midst of August brake up and bestowed themselves in convenient Ports against the next spring The Duke then watching opportunity and readily gathering together his dispersed Ships to the number of some fifty Sail imbarked his men at Brest in Bretaign the one and twenty of September and landed at Kirkowbry or the Isle of Arran in the West of Scotland In his company was Richard de la Pool who had been banished England and to his power faithfully assisted the Governour He arrived the same time that Ied-brough was burnt by the English for Thomas Earl of Surrey high Admiral of England the Marquess of Dorset and his Brother with a competent power entring Scotland had burnt many Towns and overthrown Castles aâ—â— Piles At his comming the Duke assembled the Lords at Edenburgh where they agreed that an Army should forth with be gathered and the 28. of October was appointed for their meeting at Dowglas-dale At the day prefixt the Army marched towards Coldstream upon the Tweed Out of this Army the Governoâ—r having selected a number of the hardiest Soldiers of Scots and French and convoying some Artillery over the water under the command of David Car of Farnehast on the last of October they besieged the Castle of Wark which was defended by Edward Lile or Lisle The Assailants upon the outmost Ward continuing their Battery entred by main force the second Ward but being there repulsed and beaten back a great Tempest arising and fearing the swelling of the River of Tweed might cut them off from their Army on the other side they turned back and repassed the Water the Report of the Earl of Surreys forces come to rescue the Castle and lying at Anwick and also perplexed them not a little the Earl of Surrey at his approach finding the Enemy retired to the other side of the River the Castle safe and having no Commission to pass the English marches of to invade Scotland made mo further pursuit In the mean time the Queen who had ever sought to make firm friendship with her Brother and break the amity of France sent to him to yield to a cessation of War hoping in that time to work some agreement between the two Nations Whereunto the King consenting the Governour finding the Scottish Lords averse to his intentions that he was this time served as he had been before they refusing still to enter upon England and that striving would but the more chafe them also condescended Thus a Truce was promised and faithful peace concluded till the last of November being the Feast of St. Andrews the Winâ—er past without any invasion of the English on Scotland or the Scots on England During the time of this Truce many serious consultations were amongst the Lords of Scotland whither it were more fit to continue this War of give it over Many of them held it unreasonable that for the onely pleasure of the French King the Realm of Scotland should suffer any more damage by the continuing of so needless a War and that the Duke of Albany was alwaies set to perform what the French desired not what was expedieut for the Scottish Nation nor what was in their possibility to accomplish Wherefore they wished that their young King now having attained some years of discretion and passing the age of a Child might bear some away in the Government of the Realm Some argued that a King sooner than the Sons of Noblemen went out of the bondage of Tutelage and enjoyed greater immunities his age often being reâ—koned from the time of his conception That the administration and charge of the Kingdom should early be given him that he might with his years grow in the art of Governing Since we find the same to be usual in the perfection of other arts and Sciences Others entertained other thoughts That to a child who could not by the weakness of his judgement discern Right from Wrong the Helm of State should not be trusted and that the Peers of the Kingdom might be challeng'd of dotage by their Neighbor Countreys for giving to a Child the Sword of Justice which he might thrust in their own entrails one day or wound therewith the bosom of the Common-wealth The Governour finding the Lords divided amongst themselves and their reasons averse to his intentions and that not onely the people but the Souldiery were weary of him and had bent their affections upon their young King foolishly preferring the ignorance and simplicity of a child to his prudency experience and long practice of State requested them to give him leave to return to France and to forgive him any errour he had committed which he protested was of ignorance not of malice Having from men distasted with him without any opposition obtained what he required far from any outward shew of inward discontentment or disquieting himself at the ingratitude of some whom he had advanced to Honors he came to Sterlin where after some days stay with the King when he had given him such instructions of State as he was able to understand for he was but then in the thirteenth year of his Age with many tokens of love and demonstrations of sincere affection he took his leave of him and his Ships attending his passage on the West with a great retinue of Scots and French he held his way towards them and recommended himself to the Sea in the Spring time now the third time for France after which he return'd not at all into Scotland He was a Prince adorned with many Virtues Active Couragious Resolute and knew how to use men as they are If he had not been opposed by the Queen and Nobility he was likely to have lost himself and the whole Kingdom or revenged the death of his Cousen His courteous nature went above his ambition he could as well lay down his Honours as he had modestly when they were laid upon him received them Before the Rumor
ignorance of the Mother the Queen should not suffer any loss damage or disadvantage The King of England resented highly this Divorcement endeavour'd by his Letters to hinder it for he thought some things tolerable in men which were in competent and shameful in women and after never carried such respect to his Sister as he had done before Of these she made little reckoning for after the sentence given she married Henry Stuart Son to the Lord Eavendale whom K. Iames to do honor to his Mother promoted to be Lord Meffan and General of his Artillery Whilst the King remained a shadow to the Earls Government amidst so many distractions discords and jars of the Grandees the Court turned solitary and unfrequented by any Noblemen save these of the Dowglasses own faction amongst which the Earl of Lennox shewed himself most indifferent For he for his own ends attending the Court in a short time so framed himself to the Kings humours that he delighted alone in his conversation and often hid none of his inward thoughts and secret intentions from him Among others he many times importuned him to give him a sound advice how he might de delivered form the Earl of Angus of whose bondage he had been long weary whose rule over him was turned now into tyranny his ambition having mounted to that height that he was not content to command and Kingdome but to thrall and keep under his Soveraign Lord the King himself that he effects of his Governing were the dispersing of his Nobles and banishing of his mother from him The Earl of Lennox who by his familiarity with the King was become suspitious of Angus and had an intention to tumble out a man hated of his Prince establish himself in his place and rule the young King alone aggravating his and the Countreys miseries told him after much intreaty The Lord of Balclough was the only person to be employ'd in such a service a man of unlimitted desires displeased strong in power mightlly hated and who had inveâ—erate hatred against the Earl of Angus who wanted nothing but opportunity to execute his rancour If this conceived exploit had not a desired success then he himself would by main force either win his Prince or loose his life in the Enterprize The Laird of Balclough secretly advertised of the Kings intention giveth way to much oppression and many insolencies on the borders the redress of which required the presence of the Prince Complaints are given against them and the King to do justice accompanied with the Earls of Angus Lennox Lords Hume Flamin Areskin Cesfoord Farnehast and others commeth to Ied brough But when they had staied there some daies small redress was of wrongs no justice executed the chief men of the Borders not producing the Delinquents of their Names to answer according to law as was the antient custom Thus as they came they were returning when at Melrose as they hoverd at the passage of a Bridge over the Tweed certain companies of men in arms appeared on the Descents of Hellidon Hill which being come with in distance of discerning were known to be commanded by the Laird of Balclough and number'd a thousand all borderers and broken men The Earl of Angus not a little mov'd at so sudden an apparition by an Herauld craveth to understand their intentions and how in such a hostile manner they dared come so near the Kings person withall charging them under pain of high Treason to retire The Laird of Balcloughs answer was he came to do the King service invite him to his house show him what forces he was able to raise upon the Borders when necessity should require his service and assistance That he would not obey a charge contrary to the Kings mind of which he was conscious and herewith he marched forwards Presently the Earl alighting on foot leaving the Earl of Lennox Lords Areskin Maxwell Sir George Dowglas Ninian Creightoun with the King as Spectators of the Game with the Lord Flammin and other his Friends marshall'd his Men for the Charge which was given with a great shout and clamor of these Borderers The Lord Hume Lards of Farnehast and Cesfoord had taken their leave of the King who gladly dismist them but upon advertisement of the sudden fray being not far of they return in hast with an hundred Launces in good time for the Earl of Angus and falling upon one of the Wings of Balcloughs troups force them to yield ground and some to turn their backs upon which suddenly foloweth the Chase. Cesfoord and Farnehast eagerly persewing Here at the descent of a little Hill by the blow of a Launce which a Domestick of Balcloughs threw from his Arm the Laird of Cesfoord if slain and by his death the Chase left off to be follow'd and a long deadly fewd between the Scots and Cars was begun fourscore Borderers were kill'd in this bickering assisting Balclough himself was wounded with many of his friends the Earl of Anguss lost not a few besides the Laird of Cesfoord The Earl of Angus after this road of Melross perceiving his enemies to increase and the affections of some of the Nobility turned fâ—â—m him composing the old difference between him and the Earl of Arran entered into condition of a strict friendship with him and was content he should be his partner and fellow-governour in distribution of Causualities and ruling the Countrey When the King had considered how twice his intentions had been broken and unhappily without success he began to essay the third by the Earl of Lennox whom challenging of his promise he desired to gather an army and joining his Forces with the Queens to restore him to his Liberty The Earl of Lennox before suspected after the League and friendship of Earl of Angus with the Earl of Aâ—ran became declared â— enemy to Angus withdrew himself from Court and some few Moneths being passed at Sterlin he maketh a Declaration to all the Leiges of his intentions inviting them to assist and side with his cause One thousand men came from the High-lands to him the Earl of Cassiles and Master of Kilmayers come from the West with two thousand the Queen and Arch-bishop Iames Beatoun direct many of their Vasâ—alls from Fâ—sse to him Thus with three strong Briggades he marcheth towards Lynlithgow The Earl of Angus understanding these preparations to be against him imploreth the assistance of his best Friends to withstand them especially the Carres and Humes to whoâ—e valour he had lately been so far obliged He sendeth Letters to the Earl of Arran and the Gentlemen of the name of Hamilton regretting the estate of the Common-wealth requiring their speedy aid That in so perilous time setting aside all particular Respects and Quarrels they would have a care of the Common good of the Countrey If the Earl of Lennox should carry the King from him and remained Victor of the Field he would not stay there his next mark would be the Hamiltouns whom he was
every thing as the earl of Angus could have wished he was not only entire and familiar with the Kings person but with his Office some of his enemies were dead others overthrown in open Field with the rest he was reconciled No faction for power or richess was equal to his Nor remained there any Castle Fortress not ceised on by him and garrisoned with his Friends and Followers except the Castle of Sterlin a part of the Queens Dowry which being desolate by her Miseries and only haunted by some of her poorest and meanest Servants was neglected by the Earl which in him was a great errour the fitness of the place for a revolution and change of Court considered Many daies the Earl had not seen his own dwelling Places nor thought upon his private affairs being carryed away by the storms of Court now he thinketh he may securely pass to Lothian whilst at Faulkland the King shall be safely entertained by his Brother Sir George Archembald his Uncle and Iames of the Parkhead Captain of the Guards having earnestly entreated their attendance on the King he crosseth the Forth with resolution soon to return His departing was not so concealed but the Arch-bishop of St. Andrews had knowledge of it and he inviteth Sir George to see him in his City of St. Andrews to receive the Leases of the Tyths promised all now perfected valid and according to Law sufficient Whilst Sir George is here detained Archembald the Treasurer by other Letters for matters of love is inticed to Dundee But nothing could make the Captain of the Guards leave his Charge The King amidst his solitary Walks in his Park of Faulkland considering of what a tedious Train he was relieved and how suddenly occasion might turn her bald scalp if presently he took not hold of her resolveth to accomplish by Stratagem what the Factions of his Nobles could not perform by force It is delightful to understand every particular circumstance in the progress of the actions of Princes Upon this resolution he directeth the Forrester of the Park to give advertisement to such Gentlemen about who kept Hounds the next morning to attend him for he would early have his Game He suppeth sooner than his custom was entertaining the Captain of the Guards with more than usual ceremonies and representations of the next mornings sport withall inviting him to go to his rest the Night being short about the Summer solstice The Waiters all shifted and the Court husht shutting his Chamber door in the apparel of one of his Grooms unperceiv'd he passed the Guard to the Stable where with two who attended him with spair Horses he posted to Sterlin where by the Queens intelligence he was expected in the Castle When the certainty of this escape was noised abroad many Noblemen repair to Sterlin some by Letters sent unto them others at the rumour of his evasion that in a litle time he found him safe and far from any danger again to be surprized the Earls of Arguyl Atholl Glencarn Monteeth Huntley The Lords Graham Drummond Levingstoun Sainclaire Lindsay Evandale Ruthen Maxwell Simple the Earl of â—glintoun Rothess Iames Beatoun Arch-bishop of St. Andrews the Deviser of his escape The Earl of Angus full of miss-giving thoughts with many of his Friends was also on his way to Sterlin but Proclamations being made against him Discharging him from all Offices and publick functions and being by an Herauld forbidden with his friends and followers to come near the Court by some Miles under pain of Treason either moved by inward terrours or love of the Peace of his Countrey turned back to â—inlithgow where two days he attended News of the Kings pleasure which at last was declared That neither he nor none of his should presume by some Myles to approach his residence The more particular favours were That the Earl should confine himself beyond the River of Spay in the North whilst his Brother Sir George Dowglass should render himself Prisoner in the Castle of Edenburgh and there remain during the Kings pleasure When the Dowglasses had refused these offers they are cited to answer according to Law in a Parlament to be holden in September at Edinburgh Before the day of appearing the Earl of Angus accompanied with an able Train of his Friends and Followers essayeth to enter the Town of Edenburgh and there attend the comming of the King but by the Lord Maxwell and the L. of â—ochinvarre who in the Kings name had invested the Town he is kept out and the King with an unexspected suddenness with two thousand men comming from Sterlin he removed The Earl not appearing at the appointed day is by Decree of Parlament attainted and forfeited with his brother Sir George Dowglas Archembald Dowglas his uncle Alexander Drummonâ— of Carnock and others The points of which they were to be accused were The assembling of the Kings Lieges with intention to have assailed his person The detaining of the King against his will and pleasure and contrary to the Articles agreed upon the space of two years and more all which time the King was in â—ear and danger of his liâ—e At this Parlament some write the King made a solem oath never to give a Remission to any of the Dowglasses there forfeited as the Lords did never to intercede nor request for any of them and in disgrace of the Earl of Angus Henry Stuart who had married the Queen his wife was created Lord Meffan The Dowglasses having all favour denyed them being openly declarâ—d Enemys to the King and Countrey commit all hostility the last refuge of desperate men on their enemies bounds Caust-land and Cranstoun are burned they ravage even to the Gates of Edenburgh the harmless people suffering for the faults of the great under shadow of their followers all robberies and opprâ—ssions brack forth and by whomsoever committed are laid to their charge The King will not hear of them in any other terms than Oppresâ—ours and common Robbers In their defence they fortifie their Castle of Tantallon with the readiest provision taken from the nearest adjacent bounds In October the King raiseth a great company of Souldiours with great Ordinance and other Engins of War brought from the Castle of Dumbar Tantallon is beâ—ieged but provâ—th impregnable and David Faulconer the General of the Ordinance at their removing is slain A Commission is sent to the Earl of Bothwell as the Kings Lieutenant to invade with Fire and Sword in all places the Dowglasses which he either out of human compassion or that he knew wise States-men should extenuate the faults of others rather than aggravate them refused to accept But the Earl of Arguyl and Lord Hume accepted that charge prosecute them where they might be apprehended till after much misery and night-wandring at home they were constrained with Alexander Dummond of Câ—rnock who had been partaker of their misfortunes by his consanguinity with the Earls Mother who was Daughter to the Lord Drummond to fly into England
of moderation he threatneth still to let fâ—ll the blow in the mean time holding his hand Thus to give satisfaction to his Court he formed a Process against King Henry and a most severe sentence but abstained from the publication of it during his pleasure Secretly sending many copies of it to those Princes he thought could be useful to his Designs when occassion should serve and he proceed with a constant rumor of the Bull shortly to be put in execution and publisht Amongst many interested in wrongs by the King of England considering there was none comparable to the Nation and King of Scotland he directeth hither Iohn Antonio Come peggio This Legate findeth King Iames at Faulkland 22. February 1535. and here with many Ceremonies and Apostolical Benedictions delivereth him a Cap and a Sword consecrated the Night of Nativity of our Saviour which the fame of his valour and many Christian virtues had moved his Master to remunerate him with Also saith the Original that it might breed a terror in the heart of a wicked neighboring Prince against whom the Sword was sharpned The Popes Letter in most submissive stile contained A Complaint for the death of John Bishop and Cardinal of Rochester miserably taken away by the hand of an Hangeman The Calamities of England occasioned by the Kings Divorce from Katharine of Spain and his Marriage with Anne Bullen That since the Roman Church had received great disgrace and a deadly wound and by patience procured more and more wrongs from the King of England She was constrained to use a sâ—aring Iron For the application of which she had recourse to his Majesty a Prince â—or his Ancestâ—urs Piety and his own renowned His aid maintenance protection she implored Since King Henry was a Despiser a Scorner One who set at naught the censures of the Church an Heretick Shismatick a shameful and Shameless Adulterer a publick and profest homicide Murtherer a Sacrilegious Person a Church-Robber a Rebel guilty of â—ese-Majesty divine outragious many and in â—â—merable waies a Fellon a Criminal By all Laws herefore 〈◊〉 to be turned out of his Throne The King of Scotland for the Defence of the Church would undertake something worthy a Christiâ—n King and himself he would endeavour to suppress Heresie defend the Catholick faith against those whom the justice of almighty God and judgments were now prepared and already ready to be denounced The King kindly entertaining the Legate answered the Pope with much regret for the estate and stubbornness of the King of England Who would not be struck with Pitty that a King who late amongst Christian Princes was honoured with the title of Defender of the Faith should be obnoxious to so many crimes that now amongst Princes he could scarce be reputed a Christian This compassion was common to him with others but he by a necessity of Nature and neerness of blood felt a more piercing sorrow he should leave no means untryed to recal his Uncle to the obedience of the Church and though by his Embassadours he had once or twice went about the same but in vain he would study a way how face to face he might give him his best counsel and remonstrate how much good he would do the Christian World and himself by returning again to the Chruch Mean while he requested him not to be heaady forward nor rash in executing the Sentence against his Uncle which would but obdure him in his seperation King Iames not having lost all hopes of Uncle directeth the Lord Arskin to England to acquaint him with the Emperours and Popes Embassages and to take his Counsel about a marriage with the Duke of Vandosms Daughter whom the Freâ—ch King had offered to him his own Daughter being weak and sickly In this Embasâ—age there was a complaint against the Londoners who in their passage to the Island fishing spoyled the Coasts of Orknay and the adjacent Islands with a Request that King Henry would not succour the Lubeckers against the Duke of Hulstein The King of England not to prove inferiour to the Emperour the Pope in conferring honours upon his Nephew admitteth him to the Fraternity of the Garter which he delivered to the Lord Areskin his Embassadour And thereafter dispatched William Lord Howard brother to the Earl of Norfolk as if that name were a sufficient Scar-crow to the Popes Sword and the Emperours Golden-â—leece to Scotland who made such hasty journeys that he prevented the News of his comming and at unawares found the King at Sterlin The Substance of his embassage was That the Kings of England and Scotland might have an interview at York at which meeting the King of Scotland should be declared Duke of York and General Lieutenant of the Kingdom of England That his Master having instructions of the Alliances offered him by neighbour Princes did offer to his own and his Counsels judgement if they could find a more fit than to contract a marriage with his Daughter which might be easily perfected if his Master and King Iames could condescend upon some few points When the King had taken these Propositions into deliberation the Church-men suspecting if this meeting and match had way the King would embrace the opinions of the new Reformers set all their wirs to overthrow it The neerest Successors to the Crown covering their claim and interest argued That to marry the Lady Mary of England who for many years would not be mariagable was not a right way to continue his race by procreation of children and that his impatience of living alone would not be much abated by marying a Child That King Henry projected this mariage to no other end than to hinder him from better Allyances or to facilitate an entry to the kingdom That when a Prince would take advantage of any neighbor Prince it was more safely done by alliance than open force That it was more safely King Henry being a wary Prince never meant to mary his Daughter at all as long as himself lived but to keep her at Home with him bearing many Princes in hand to save him from Dangers both at home and abroad which counsel was practised lately by the Duke of Burgundy Most oppose neither to the meeting of the two Kings nor to the Alliance but to the place of their meeting which seemed unto them of no small importance being in the heart of England and amidst the most martial people of that Nation They require the two Kings might have their interview at Newcastle this place when they meet being most commodious for furnishing all necessaries by Ships That the number of their Trayn should be agreed upon as one thousand which none of th two Kings should exceed That the time should be at the Feast of Saint Michael the Arch-Angel between the Harvest and the Winter which would hast the consummation of the Ceremonies and not suffer the Kings to prolong time but invite their return to their own chief and principal Cities When it was declared to
to create as many out of the Gentry in whom being his own Creatures he might have great confidence than any made by his Predecessours After this he turned so retired sullen and melancholly that every thing displeased him and he became even insupportable to himself not suffering his Domestick Servants to use their ordinary disport and recreations neer him And as all day he projâ—cted and figured to himself new cares to perplex himself some of which might fall forth others could never come to pass So in the night time the objects of his dayly projects working upon his fantasie limmed their dark shadows of displeasures which gave him terribâ—e affright in his sleep Amongst many of which two are recorded as notable one in the History of the Church the other common both seem to have been forged by the Men of those times who thought fictions as powerful to breed an opinion in discontented minds as verities and they may challenge a place in the poetical part of History As he lay in the Pallace of Lithgow about the midst of the night he leaped out of his Bed calleth for Lights commandeth his Servants to search Thomas Scot his Justice Clark who he said stood by his Bed-side accompanied with hideous weights cursing the time that ever he had served him for by too great obedience to him he was by the justice of God condemned to everlasting torments Whilst they about him labour to cure his wounded Imagination news came that Thomas Scot about that same hour of the Night was departed to the other World at Edenburgh and with no better Devotion than he was represented to the King After Sir Iames Hamiltoun had ended his part of this Trage-comedy of life he seemed to the King to have returned on the Stage and in a ghastly manner with a naked Sword in his hands he thought he parted both his arms from him advertising him he would come again shortly and be more fully revenged till which occasion he should suffer these wounds The next day after this vision which is recorded to have been the seaventh of August word came that both his Sonns were deceased and that almost in one hour Iames the Prince then one year old at St. Andrews Arthur one moneth old at Sterlin The King of England finding himself disappointed by his Nephew of their meeting and understanding it to have been occasiond by the Rhetorick and liberality of the Churchmen having many of the Nobility of Scotland of his faction whose innocency interpreted his Religion to be the reformed though indeed it was of his own stamp for he abolished the Pope but not Popacy by making prizes of Scottish Ships upon the Seas with his Fleet and incursions of his garrison'd Souldiers upon land beginneth the prologue of an unnecessary war King Iames to stop the English incursions placeth George Gordoun Earl of Huntley with his full power and authority at the Borders and directeth Iames Lermound of Darcey towards his Uncle to give sufficient reasons of his not meeting him at Newcastle withall to seek restitution of his Ships sith taken before any lawful War was proclaimed and to expostulate the hostility of the Borderers King Henry not only refuseth render the Ships or give a reason for the breaking forth of the Garrisons on the Borders but delaying the answer of the Scottish Embassadour upon advantage of time sâ—ndeth Sir Robert Bowes seconded with the Earl of Angus and Sir George Dowglas in hostile manner to invade Scotland These to the number of three thousand burn spoil small villages and ravage the Countrey neer the debatable bounds The Earl of Huntley omitteth no occasion to resist them places garrisons in Kelsoo and Iedburgh assembling all the hardy Bordrers and invadeth the English and Scottish forces at a Place named Hall-den rig here it is soundly skirmished till the Lord Hume by the advancing of four hundred fresh Launces turned the fortune of the Day for the English were put to flight the Warden Sir Robert Bowes Captain of Norham Sir William Mowbray Iames Dowglas of Parkhead with a natural Son of the Earl of Angus were taken Prisoners the Earâ— by the advantage of his horse escaping with others to the number of six hundred The Warden staied in Scotland till the Kings death This Road happened prosperously to the Scots the 24. of August 1541. being a Dise-mall St. Bartholomew to the English The War continuing till Midsommer King Henry sent the Earl of Norfolk whom he named the Rod of the Scots with great power towards Scotland with him the Earls of Shrewsbury Derby Cumberland Surrey Hereford Angus Rutland and the Lords of the North parts of England with an Army of fourty thousand men as they were esteemed With them he directeth Iames Lermound of Darcey the Scotish Embassadour to keep an equal march till they came to Bâ—rwick and there to stay that he should not give advertisement to his Master of any of his proceedings the Earl of Huntley upon advantages of places resisting the adventuring Routs who essayed to cross the Tweed But King Iames hearing the old Duke of Norfolk was their Leader raiseth from all the parts of his Kingdom Companies and assembling them upon Sâ—wteryâ— edge mustered thirty thousand men They encamped on Fallow-Moor the King having advertisement that the Duke would march towards Edenburgh Ten thousand strong the Lords Hume Seatoun Areskin to make up the Earl of Huntleys forces are sent towards the borders The King himself expecting the Artillery and other furniture of War staieth with the body of the Army in the Camp Durin this time it is reported the Lords plotteth a Reformation of the Court according to the example practised at Lawder-Bridge especially against such who were named Pensioners of the Priests but because they could not agree among themselves about those who should stretch the ropes every one striving to save his kinsman or friend they escaped all the danger That this attempt being revealed to the King he dismist some of his favourites in great fear to Edenburgh So malitious is faction armed with power Thomas Duke of Norfolk by such in the Scotish Camp who favoured King Henry having understood the preparation and mind of King Iames to meet him in an open field well knowing that Fortune had that much of a woman to favour young men more than old and that honourable â—etreits are no waies inferiour to brave Charges retireth off the Scottish ground and keeps his forces on their own marches For the valour and resolution of this young Prince might perhaps spoil and divest him of his former purchased Lawrels and Palms to the applause of King Henry who some thought being wearie of his service to this effect sent him to Scotland A great number of the Lancastrianâ— and North-Humbrians who upon hopes of spoil had followed him pretending want of Victuals and the rigorous season of the year with arms and baggage leave this Army Having done little harm to the Scots and suffered much
hunger and cold at Bâ—rwick he prepareth a retreit towards London When King Iames understood the Duke had repassed the â—weed he encouâ—aged his Army to follow him The Common Souldier was indifferent the Noblemen refuse to fight except upon Scotish ground The King urgeth them with the commodity and advantage of a Revenge of the old wrong of the Duke commanding an Army neither of the Gentry nor many Nobles of England but of Hirelings and presâ—ed Artizans whose number would prove hurtful to themselves and turn them in a disordered confusion They had many daies suffered famine and all necessities of War their vigour and courage was spent that the English fought far off and they at home There wanted not matter to answer but a man to deliver the King an answer generally they refuse to fight To defend the person of their Prince the State and Countrey they would hazard their their lives and if they had any thing more dear If the enemy would stay on Scotish ground they would do their uttermost to make him retire or by main force expel him But to invade England and tempt an Army who not only was retired but returned to their own bounds they neither had so justâ—a quarrel as they wisht nor were they sufficient at that time to pursue them Their proyisions for war were spent the winter approached victuals consumed that despare often turned it self into true fortitude and men in good Order retiring would not be too neer followed that even flying enemies should have Bridges of Gold Now if they were to charge the Enemy they would not have the Kings presence a man young rash valorous upon whose life not onely the glory of the Battel but the life of the Common-wealth depended his two Sons being Lately departed For if the fortune of War brought a period to his life the Crown would remain at the mercy of the Victor that the Kings glory was not little that he had in so short a time with so small forces and these suddenly gathered stop the progress of so mighty an Army which was so long in gathering and boasted of such great matters yet which 〈◊〉 not advance one mile in Scottish ground Whether the English flye or retire they had suffered as much wrong as they had done and now to fight them and that perhaps with disadvantage was to put in hazard what was already acquired The Duke of Norfolk returning to London the King with his Army commeth to Edenburgh which immediatehe disbanded but he forgot not the secret Plot against his Favourites nor the open refusal of his Nobles to fight on English ground as if the Earth were not all one piece and matter and men the destinade inhabitants of it every where the Cardinall David Beatoun Oliver Saintclair Craggyâ— Ross and others adde fewel to these flames Falla-Moor plot mightily inâ—tigating them The King avouched publickly That the Nobility neither loved his honour nor desired his continuance amongst them To cooll these smooking humours and breed in the King fairer hopes of his Nobles the Lord Maxwel offereth giving him ten thousand men to command if the State thought it expedient to invade England at Salloway affirming the State and fortune of those who assail to be better than theirs who are still put to their defence The English forces being divided he doubted not to stay longer on English ground than the Duke had done on the Sootish and to effectuate somthing to the Kings content The King thanking him for his offer appolnteth a Rendezvous to be at the West Marches No proclamations are divulged for the Levies of men but close Letters sent The Cardinal and the Earl of Arran the one a Church-man of a mind above many Nobles the other a Noble-man of an humilitie under any Church-man to give false perspective to those proceedings by sound of Trumpets and beating of Drumms raise men openly march toward Hadingtoun and the East Borders Whilst the Earls of Cassiles Glencarn Lords Flammin Sommervail Arsekin Barons Aytoun Langtoun Ormestoun Waughtoun and many others accompanied with the Kings domestick Servants ride to the West Borders The night before the Road the King himself came to Loch-Maban attending the event of the inâ—ursion Companies comming from all quarters of the Countreys about none knowing of another with the power of the Scotish Borderers pass the Water of Esk burn certain Hamlets of the Grahams on the very limits Sir Thomas Whartoun Warden of these Marches not a little troubled at such a frequent assembly of the Scotish Riders raising the power of the Countrey placeth them by a little hill where he might take a view of their forces in good order with him were Bastard Dacres and Iack Musgrave two valiant Captains The Scotish Lords beholding the English range themselves in a Battallion desire to know the Kings Lieutenant General for now it was to marshall their Companyes and every man to take him to his Charge Presently Oliver Saintclair upon crossed Pikes is mounted the Kings Banner displayed and the Commission read in which he is designed Lieutenant and all commanded in the Kings name to obey and follow him It hath been reported by those who were acquainted with Oliver that the Commission was not read but that at his very sight such a tumult confused clamour and enter shouldering of Male contents arose their rancks were broken the military order turned into a confusion none so repining as the Lord Maxwel and the Borderers Who if he had had patience to have heard the Commission as Oliver protested was Lieutenant and not he whose charge was only to present it The English who now were ready for the Fight observing this disorder take the advantage upon the occasion and brake forwards with a military shout whilst the others are in doubt whether to flee or stand and the Guidiats and Scullons are pesle mesle thronging with the foot Soldiers and they with the Horsemen Here is a general surprize most part willingly rendering themselves to the English without any shew of defence or the slaughter of any person of any side This overthrow proveth that neither arms nor thâ— multitude and numbers of Souldiers without their love and hearts availeth any thing in a Field yea rather they are hurtful the more in number they be if their affection be alienated from their Commanders It is recorded that at this road which was named Solloway-Moss every English had three or four Scots for Prisoners and when their wanted men to take them the women of the neighbouring Hamelet and Boys had Prisoners the Earls of Cassiles and Glencarn the Lords Maxwel Flammin Sommervail Olivant Gray Robert Areskin Son to the Lord Areskin Oliver Saintclain The Lairds of Craggy Aytoun Langtoun Ormestoun Waughtoun many of the Kings Domestick Servants were taken Prisoners brought to London and remained there till after the Kings death The certainty of this voluntary defeat comming to the King at Loch-Maban or Carlawfroke as others so astonished all the powers of
Prior of Crato who claimed the Crown of Portugal to reclaim whose Kingdome She sent the Earl of Essex and Drake or should marry one of them to their neerest Kinswomen and send him armed with power to claim his Title to the Crown of Scotland as King Iames the fourth of Scotland practised upon Perkin Warbeck naming himself Richard Duke of York to whom he gave in marriage Lady Katharine Gordoun Daughter to the Earl of Huntley and thereafter with all his forces to estable his said Ally in his Title invaded England It would be considered whether they had a fair bridge to come over to this Isle It would likewife be considered if the Earl of Strathern though a mean Subject these two hundred years having been debarred from all title to the Crown and now by the indulgency and exceeding favour of the Prince being restored to his descent in bloud and served Heir to his great Progenitors and indirectly as by appendices to the Crown if either out of displeasure or for want of means to mainâ—tain their estates he or his should sell and dispose their Rights and Titles of the Kingdom of Scotland to some mighty and Foreign Prince such as is perhaps this day the King of Sweden who wanteth nothing but a title to invade a Kingdom not knowing whither to discharge his victorions forces It would be considered if that title disposed to that Priuce were sufficient to make him King of Scotland Or if establiâ—hing his right upon fair conditions such as is liberty of conscience absolution and freedom from all taxes and subsidies the transferring of Ward lands into fewd the people of Scotland might give him their Oath of Alleagiance or if he might redact the King of Scotland to give him satisfaction and compound for his right of the Crown of Scotland It would to these be considered If times should turn away the minds of Subjects from their Prince by superstition sedition and absolute Rebellion as what may not befall an inconstant ever wavering Nation to an Aristocratie Oligarchy Democratie or absolute Anarchy If the Rebellious subjects and abused Populace might not make advantage of such Men who draw their titles from Evanders mother to trouble the present times That nothing could be more dangerous to the Nobleman himself than this service may be understood by the like examples Clouis King of France having understood that a Nobleman of Artois named Canacare blown up by Power had vaunted that he was come and lineally descended from Clodion le Chevelu and by that same Succession was heir of the Crown of â—rance closed not his ears to it saies the History but caused extirpate that Sower of impostures and all his Race Henry the fourth King of England after the deposure of King Richard the second kept Edmond Mortimer Earl of March who had a just title to the Crown under such Keepers that he could never do nor attempt any thing till he dyed But Henry the seventh King of England took away Edward Plantaginet Duke of Warwick Heir to George Duke of Clarence by reason of his jealousie of Succession to his Uncle Edward the fourth Margarite Plantaginet his sole Daughter married to Sir Richard Pole knight by Henry the eight restored to the Earldom of Salisbury was attainted threescore and two years after her Father had suffered and was in the Tower of London beheaded in whose person dyed the surname of Plantaginet Anne Plantaginet Daughter to Edward the fourth being marryed to Thomas Howard Earl of Surrey and Duke of Norâ—olk was the ground and chief cause wherefore King Henry the eight cut off the head of Henry Earl of Snrrey though the pretended cause whereon he was arraigned was the bearing certain arms of the house of York which only belonged to the King Mary Queen of England cut off the head of Lady Iâ—â—e Gray and the Lord Guilford her Husband for their title to the Crown and that same reason was the overthrow and finall destruction of Mary Queen of Scotland by Queen Elizabeth The Duke of Guise by a Genealogy deduced from Charles the Great in the raign of Henry the third the French King was thought to aspire to the Crown of France and suffered at last for this and his other presumptions It is notoriously known that these two hundred years the Race of Euphane Ross in her children David Earl of Strathern and Walter Earl of Athole and all their Succâ—ssion by all the Kings of Scotland sithence have been ever suppressd and kept under and for reason of State should still be kept low and under unless a Prince would for greater reason of State aduance them to give them a more horrible blow and by suborning mercinary men make them aim above their reach to their last extirpation Dum nesciunt distinguere inter flamma praecipitia Princeps quem persequitur honorat extollit in altum An intended Speech at the West Gate of Edenburgh to King JAMES SIR IF Nature could suffer Rocks to move and abandon their natural places this Town founded on the strength of Rocks now by the chearing Rayes of your Majesties presence taking not only motion but life had with her Castle Temples and Houses moved towards you and besought you to acknowledge her yours and her indwellers your most humble and affectionate Subjects And to believe how many souls are within her circuits so many lives are devoted to your sacred person and Crown And here Sir She offers by me to the Altar of your glory whole Hecatombs of most happy desires praying all things may prove prosperous unto you that every Virtue and Heroick Grace which make a Prince eminent may with a long and blessed Goverment attend you Your Kingdomes flourishing abroad with Bays at home with Olives presenting you Sir who art the strong Key of this little World of Great Britain with those keys which cast up the Gates of her affection and design you power to open all the springs of the hearts of those her most Loyal Citizens Yet this almost not necessary For as the Rose at the fair appearing of the morning Sun displayeth and spreadeth her purpleâ— So at the very noise of your happy return to this your native Countrey their hearts if they could have shined through their brests were with joy and fair hopes made spatious Nor did they ever in all parts feel a more comfortable heat than the glory of your prefence at this time darteth upon them The old forget their age and look fresh and young at the appearance of so gracious a Prince the young bear a part in your Welcom desiring many years of life that they may serve you long all have more joies than tongues For as the words of other nations far go beyond and surpass the affection of their hearts So in this nation the affection of their hearts is far above all they can express by words Daign then Sir from the highest of Majesty to look down on their lowness and embrace it accept
Laws The Duke to raise his own reputation to the disadvantage of the King with all secrecy of his intentions had procured himself a vast Authority with the Nobles by a semblance of liberality wasting the Patrimony of the Crown as remitting Treasons restoring again Lands annexed to the Crown He had studied so conciliate to him the minds of the Commons that the desire of a King did not much touch them using such moderation in his proceedings that his Government seemed unto many not only tolerable but desirable He had essayed to draw the Earl of Dowglass and had drawn the Earl of March to enter into a League with him and these Noblemen then in the Castle of St. Andrews divided the Nobility and made them break their Allegiance to the King Upon which attempt it seemeth that that Act of this Kings second Parliament was made That no Subjects should lâ—ague themselves together The King esteemed all that Government of Robert and Mordock to be an 〈◊〉 of the Crown and feared the like thereafter His Son Iames had burnt Dumbarton and treacherously killed the Kings Uncle which was not done without his knowledge it not Câ—unsel Though he relieved the King of his Captivity he suffered him to remain very long a Prisoner nâ—iâ—her did he practise his deliverance till he perceived the whole States of the Kingdom resolved to call him Home and was compelled by the injuries of his own Children To exasperate new injuries by old rancours his Father Robert spurred by Ambition had famished to death the Kings Brother David in the Castle of Faulkland to escape whose Tyrannie the King yet a childe was committed to the protection of stranger Princes What ever the particulars of their accusations have been it is above the possiâ—iâ—ity of any Governor or Man in eminent place and authority so to carry himself but a discontented Prince if he wiâ—l set him to a tryal shall bring some one or other of his actions to whiâ—l him within compass of Justice Thus the imprecation of Robert the third took effect upon the race of Robert the Governor for after the death of the Duke of Rotâ—esay he is said to have cursed him most deadly praying as he had slain his Brothers Son and filled thâ—ir house with blood so God would punish him his Stock and Pâ—sterity There is noâ— any wickednâ—ss which beareth not its punishment and repentance at the last if we can have â—aâ—ience to attend the last act of those Tâ—agedies played on this Theater of the World By the Attaindor of the Duke the 〈◊〉 of Fiâ—e Monteith and Lennox were divâ—lved to the Crown The Câ—stle of Inchâ—Merin in Loch-Lommond which hâ—d a while been kept good for Iames who flâ—d into Ireland by Iohn Montgomery and Humphrey Cunningham was brought to the obedience of the King Whâ—n the Lords and Gentlemen who were in Prisons attending the Kingâ— pleasure understood what necessary justice had been executed upon the Duke and his Sons they were gâ—iâ—voâ—sly perplexed yet the King like a wise Physitian would take no more blood then might take away the disease and all further causes of Faction For within twelve moneths thereafter he set them all at Liberty and received them in his wonted favour upon promise of their loyal demeanour and dutifull obedience in time to come But being thus freely discharged the conce it was taken that Mordocks head and his sons with Lennoxes was only the aim and that they were used but as a Countenance of State to dazlâ— the eyes of the People The Wars continuing between the Englâ—sh and the French the one to keep what he was in possâ—ssion of the other to reobtain what he had lost Charls the seventh a wise and victorious Pâ—ince knowing the friendship of Scâ—tland to be of no small importance to any that would fight against the English the flower and strength of the Scottish Souldiers which had followed the French Wars being then blasted and spent sendeth Iohn Stuâ—rt of Darnley Marshal of a Garrison of Hoâ—semen with the Earl of Dowglass as the French write then Marshal of France to Scotland to have a fresh supply of Men of Arms and Renauld of Charteres Arch-bishop of Rheymes who there had Crowned his Master and was Chancellour of France to renew the ancient League between the French and Scots But the main business about which the Arch-bishop came was the trafficking of a Marriage between Lewis the Daulphine though then very young with Margaret Daughter to King Iames. This Match the â—nglish had either neglected or contemn'd which afterward â—hey sued for The renewing of the old League and Amity between the two Nations was easily condescended unto it being but a witness to the world of their mutual kindness The chief Articles of which were The War or Injury moved or done by the English men to one of the said Nations to be as Common-wrong to both If the English men make War on the French Nation then the Scots at the costs and charges of the French King shall minister to them succours Likewise if the Scots be molested by the English Wars the French Nation having their charges allowed shall be to them Ayders and Assisters That none of both Nations shall either contract or make Peace with the Realm of England without the consent and agreement of the other The Marriage being found commodious for both Nations was likewise with great contentment agreed upon and concluded fresh recruits of Souldiers were Ievied and dispatched with the Embassador to France The South and Champion parts of Scotland brought under obedience and a peacefull Government the King will have the remotest Countreys of his Kingdom even those blocked up and baâ—icadoed by the snowy Clifts of Grantsben to acknowledge his Justice The wildeness of the soyl had made the Inhabiâ—ants there more fierce then Fierceness it self and let them out to all unlawful Riots and Rapines To restrain their insolent humors and bring them within compass of Civility in the year 1426. he caused repair the Castle of Innerness which is situated in the uttermost borders of Murray and by their incursions which had been turned desolate hither some years after commeth he in person and keepeth open Court that being near the evil he might have the better means to provide for and consider it But he seemed to have arrived in some Territory of the Scythians having known and found things which none did nor dared relate unto him for he had learned that not many miles of thâ—re were men some of which had one thousand some two thousand Robbers at their call who were accustomed to drive preys from the more civil Neighbours and Borders pilling and spoiling poluting and ravishing without any difference of right or wrong holy or prophane but only following their ravenous and insolent humours On the quiâ—ter sort thâ—y set Tribute others they compell to Minister to them sustenance and necessaâ—ies The God Prince Law which they obey are their barbarous Châ—iftains amongst
by wars have found their ruin in a luxurious peace Men by a vâ—luptuous life becomming less sensible of tiue honour The Court and by that example the Countrey was become too soft and delicate superfluous in all delights and pleasures Masques Banqueting gorgeous appâ—rel revelliâ—g were not only licensed but studied and admired Nothing did please what was not strange and far brought Charity began to be restrained publique magnificence falling in private Riot What was wount to entertain whole families and a train of goâ—dly men was now spent in drâ—ssing of some little rooms and the womannish decking of the persons of some few Hermophrodites To these the wife King had while given way knowing that delicate soft times were more easie to be governed and a people given to mild arts and a sweet condition of life than rough and barbarous so they turned not altogether womanized and that it was an easie matter to bring them back again to their old posture At these abuses some of the feverer sort of the Clergy began to caip yet could they not challenge the Prince who in the entertainment ofr his own person scarce exceeded the degree of any private Man yea was often under the Pomp and Majesty of a King But the blemish of all this excess was laid on the English who by the Queen their Countrey woman with new guises dayly resorted hither and turned new-fangle the Court. The King not only listened to their plaints but called a Parliament to satisfy their humours Here Henry Wardlaw Bishop of S. Andrews highly aggravating the abuses and superfluities of Court and Countrey all disorders were pry'd intio and Staâ—uâ—es made against them They abolished râ—ots of all sorts of Pearl many Rivâ—rs in Scotland affording them not only for use but for excess only women were permitted to wear a sunall Carkanet of them about their Necks costly Furs nad Ermins were wholly forbidden together with abuse of Gold and Silver lace Penaltiâ—s were not only imposed upon the transgrâ—ssours but on workmen which should make of fell them excâ—ssive expense in banqueting was restrained and dainties banished from the Tables of Epicures with Jeasters and Buffones In this year 1430. the first of Iune was a terrible Eclipse of the Sun at 3 of the clock afternoon the day turning black for the space of an half hour as though it had been Night therefore it was after called or the Commons The BLACK HOUR The as and greatest matter which busied the Kings thoughts was the increasing of his Revenues and bringing back the Dâ—measn of the Crown a work no less dangerous than deep and diffiâ—il and which at last procured him greatest hatred For till then smothered malice did never burst forth in open flames And though this diligence of the king concerned much the publique weal yet such as were interessed by rendring what they had long possessed though without all reason esteemed themselves highly wronged The Patâ—imony of the Crown had been wasted and given away by the two Governours to keep themselves popular and â—hun the envy of a factious Nobility Thus the King had neither in magnificence to maintain himself nor bestow upon his friends or strangers He had advisedly perused all evidences nad charters belonging to the Crown hereupon he recalls all such Lands as had been either alienated from it or wrongfully usurped Together what was wont to beidly given away as forfeitures escheats and wards were restrained to the Crown and kept to the King himself There remained upon considerations of increasing the Demesns of the Crown the Lands of the Earl of March whose Father had rebelled against the Kings Father Robert though faults be personal and not hereditary and the heirs of ancient houses hold little of their last possessours but of their Predecessours those the King seased on The Earl proved by good evidences and writings brought forth his Father had been pardoned for that fault by the Regents of the Kingdom he was answered again that it was not in the Regents power to pardon an offence against the State and that it was expresly provided by the Laws in crimes of lese majesty that children should undergo punishment for their Fathers transgressions to the end that being thus heirs to their Fathers raâ—hness as they are to their Goods and Lands they should not at any time with vast ambition in the haughty Pride of their own power plot or practice to shake and tear the Publick Peace of the Prince nad Countrey Thus was the remission by the Parliament declared void and Earl George himself committed to the Castle at Edenbrough William Earl of Anguss Warden of the Middle March William Chreighâ—oun Chancellour Sir Adam Hepburn of Hailles immediately received the Castle of Dumber the keeping of which was given to Sir Adam Hepburn The King not long after set Earl George at Liberty and to save him from the like dangers which were wont to befall his Predecessours to fly into England for every small cross and light displeasure at Court he bestowed on him as it were in exchange for these lands in the Marss the Earldom of Bâ—chan in the North with a yearly pension to be paid out of the Earl-dome of March setting the Tay and the Forth betwixt him and his too kind friends of England Buchan had faln to the King by the decease of Iohn who was Son to Robert the second and Earl of Buchan He was slain at Vernueill in France with the Marshall Duglass and left no lawfull children after him to succeed The Earldome of Marre was incorporate also to the Demesn Royall by the decease of Alexander Stuart Earl of Marre who was natural Son to Alexander Stuart who was the Son of Robert the second He was Man of singular prowess and in his youth followed the warres under Philip Duke of Burgundy he married Iane Daughter to the Earl of Holland and had greatly oblieged his Countrey by transporting Stallions and Mares hither out of Hungary the Stood of which continued long after to his Commendation and the commodity of the Kingdome The Earldom of Strathern was appropriated also to the Crown by the Decease of David Stuart Earl of Strathern Unclâ— to the King who having but one onely Daughter who was married to Patrick Graham a younger Brother of the Lord Grahams the Earldom being â—ailed to the Masculine Line was divolved again to the Crown Thus did King Iames succeed to three Brothers who were Sons to Robert the second All Good men with these proceedings of the King were well pleased for iâ— Princes could keep their own and that which justly belâ—ngeth unto them they could not be urged to draw such extraordinary Subsidies from the blood sweat and tears of their people yet was this the Shelf on which this Prince perished for many who were accustomed to be Copartners of such off-fallings began to storm and repine at his actions but none was so implacable as Robert Graham Uncle and Tutor to Miles Graham the son of Eupheme
daughter to David Earl of Strathern For plotting mischief he began to rail speak in high terms associate himself with others of his own mind Notwithstanding that the King Anno 1428. in September had bestowed on â—is Nephew the Lands and Earldom of Monteeth in compensation of that of Strathern to which he pretended right it being an appenage of the Crown About this time Embassadors came into Scotland from Eriâ—us the King of Denmark requiring of King Iames the payment of a yearly Tribute which was due to him as King of Norway for the Western Isles according to the Covenant and Agreement made by Alexander the third King of Scotland and his Predecessor Magnus the son of Acho then King of Norway the Embassador was honorably received and Sir William Creighton Chancellor directed to go with him to Denmark who there renued the old League between the Realms setled questionable matters and confirmed a perfect amity and stedfast Peace Embassadors came also from Charles the French King not only to confirm the old Amity between Scotland and France but for a better assurance thereof to have Margaret eldest Daughter to King Iames already betrothed to Lewis the Daulphin who now was thirteen years of Age delivered to them and convoyed to France The English foreknowing this Alliance had before sent the Lord Scrope with other Associates to Him in Embassage to have the old League between the French and the Scots dissolved and to joyn the Kings Daughter in Marriage with Henry the sixth their King promising if the King would thereunto agree and joyn in League with them that the Town and Castle of Berwick should be delivered to the Power of the Scots with all the Lands lyand between Tweed and the Redcross which when William the Conquerour granted Cumberland to the Scots marched England and Scotland and is now a fragment of a Cross in Richmond-Shire neer the Spittle on Staâ—moore about which is nothing but a wilde desert Having Audience the Lord Scrope spake before the Counsell to this purpose I am directed hither by my Master and his Council about a Business which concerneth the Honour and profit of the two Kingdoms above any other which can be projected and it is the establishing of a perpetual Peace and Concord between them and happily when it shall please the higher Providence their uniting in one Body under one Prince one day How vain the attempting of this heretofore by Arms hath proved the world can but too well bear witness the many proofs of eithers valour against themselves having been but a lavish effusion of humane Blood the fairest way easiest means to make enmities cease and these ancient Quarrels was begun Sir in your person by the happy Marriage of the Daughter of Iohn Duke of Sommerset brother to King Henry the fourth and Son to the Duke of Lancaster and prosperously hath continued these years past Now that Peace may be lasting and the affections and minds of the two Nations soldered together our Request is that this Alliance may be again renewed by the Marriage of your eldest Daughter with our young King a most fitting and equal match And in seeking of her we crave but our own She is descended of our Royal Stem and if again she be ingrafted in that stock out of which she sprang it is but natural And you my Lords where can ye find a Match more Honorable for both Nations Where can ye finde a better and more profitable Friendship then ours Are we not a people in habiting one Island have we not both one Language are we not of like Habit and Fashion of like quality and condition of life guarded and separated from the other World by the great depths of the Ocean What evil Customs have come into your Country by your last Allyance with us Nay what Civility Policy and laudable Fashions to the confusion of Barbarity have not followed hereupon By this the Glory of both Realms will encrease either being sufficient not only to furnish necessaries but even all lawfull and moderate contentments of life to support others Besides that an assurance of Defence Strength and Power to invade ease in undergoing publick Charges will hereby follow We are not ignorant that your Lady is designed for France but how long alas will ye continue prodigal of your blood for the French What have ye advantaged your selves by your Alliance with France save that they engage your bodies in their Wars and by conferring upon you unprofitable titles of honour take from you what is truly real ye are reserved a Postern-gate by which they may enter England diverting our Forces and transporting the Stage of the War upon our Borders Learn to forget your French or iâ— ye be so enamoured with France Love her after our manner Come take a share be partakers of our Victories Are not our Forces being joyned sufficient to overcome nay bring in chains hither that King of Bruges and make our selves Masters of his Continent France never did so much good to Scotland in twenty years as Scotland hath had loss by England for the love and cause of France in one Are not your wounds at Vernueil and Cravant yet bleeding and all for the French It hath been your valour and not the French which heretofore empeached our conquest and progress in France were it not for your swords we had made ere now the loftiest tops of the Alps or Pyrenees bear our Trophies Ye say ye reverence and cannot break your old league and confederation with that Kingdom happy Leagues but wo to the keepers of them unhappy Scotland and too too honest and the more unhappy for that thy honesty is the great cause of thy mishaps How long shall that old league counted amongst the Fables of the Ancient â—alladines make you waste your lives goods fortunes and lose your better Friends The Genius of this Isle seemeth to cry unto us her Nurselings to stay our cruel hands no longer to be her desolation and the wrack one of another not to pass over and neglect these fair occasions of mutual Alliances which will not only effectuate Truces and Leagues amongst our selves but at last bring a perpetual Peace and Union for by interchange of Marriages being united this Isle shall continue stronger by entertaining Peace and Amity then by all these Giant walls Rampiers of Mountains and that huge ditch of Seas by which Nature hath environed and fortified her Now that ye may know how dearly we esteem your Friendship and Alliance whereas others go to take from you we will give you Roxburgh Berwick and all the lands between Tweed and Redcross If shadows prevail and prove stronger with you then essential reason and that ye disesteem our offer losing this good occasion we as Neighbours and Friends entreat you that ye do not uphold the French now in the Sun-set of their Fortunes and at their weakest that ye would not shoulder this falling Wall but that ye would live quiet within
had waited upon her but Providence so appointing she escaped them and they encountred a fleet of Spaniards keeping their course towards the Netherlands Them they beset with fourscore Vessels commanding the Ladies and all of their Company to be delivered unto them when they would not accept of friendly answers they fall to handy blows till in end by loss of men and some Ships they understood their errour The Lady Margaret thus without danger by the Western Seas arrived at Rochell having for her convoy a whole Colony of Gentle-women the Histories say an hundred and fourty went with her all of noble parentage of which train were her five Sisters from Rochel she held her progress to Tours there with an extraordinary Pomp and magnificence the 24. of Iune Anno 1436. was she marryed to the Daulphin Lewis The King to defray the charges raised by transporting and marriage of his Daughter the French seeking with her small or no Dowry these times preferring parentage and beauty before Gold or riches all that was craved being a supply of Men of Arms for their Support against the English laid a Subsidie on his Subjects the one half of which being levied and the people grudging and repining at the exacting of the other half it being taken from men who lived hardly in a barren soyl He caused render a part of it again and discharged the remainder At this time by Sea and land the English in revenge of the refusal of the offers of their Ambassadours began to use all Hostility against the Scots Henry Piercy of Northumberland invadeth the Countrey with four thousand men whether of his own Bravery abhorring ease and idleness or that he had a Commission so to do is uncertain with him came Sir Henry Clyddesdale Sir Iohn Ogle Richard Peircy and many men of choice and worth the frontier Garrisons invade all places neer unto them To resist these incursions William Dowglass Earl of Anguss getteth charge a man resembling his Ancestors in all virtues either of War or Peace and the most eminent of his time with him went Adam Hepburne of Hails Alexander Elphinstoun of Elphinstoun in Lothion and Alexander Ramsey of Dalhowsie of all being four thousand strong These covetous of glory besides the ancient quarrel of the two Nations having the particular emulations of the Names and Valour of their Ancestors to be spurs unto them make speedy journeys to have a proof of their vertue and courage The Lists of their meeting was Popperden a place not far from Bramstoun Rhodam Roseden Eglinghame all cheared with the stream of a small Brook named Brammish which arising out of the Cheviot loseth its name in the â—ill as the Till after many windings disgorgeth it self in the Tweed Adam Hepburn and Alexander Elphinstoun led the Van-guard of the Scots Sir Richard Piercy Sir Iohn Ogle of the English Alexander Ramsey and Henry Cliddisdail kept the Rears the two Generals road about the Armies remembring them of their ancient valour the wrongs received the justness of the Quarrel the glory of the Victory the shame of the overthrow No sooner were they come within distance of joyning when the sound of the Drums and Trumpets was out-noysed by the shouts of the Assailants who furiously ren-countred The Guns being about this time found out were here first practised between the Scots and the English in an open field When the fight with equal order had been long maintained on both sides now the Scots then the English yielding ground many of the Commanders at length began to fall most of the English Then was the Piercy constrained to be at once Commander and Souldier but ere he could be heard some Companies had turned their backs among the thickest throngs of which breaking in he found so great disorder that neither by Authority Intreaty or Force he was able to stay their flying Thus distracted between the two courses of honour and shame he is hurried far from the place of Fight And Victory declared her self altogether for the Scots which was not so great in the execution as in the death and captivity of some brave men Of the Scots two hundred Gentlemen and common Souldiers were slain amongst which was Alexander Elphinstoun maintaining the Battel with his sword voice and wounds and two other Knights Of the English died Sir Henry Cliddisdail Sir Iohn Ogle Sir Richard Piercy with fifteen hundred Gentlemen and Common Souldiers of which fourty were Knights four hundred were taken Prisoners The King irritated by the way-laying of his Daughter the invading of his Borders and encouraged not a little by this little smile of Fortun at Popperden it being more sure to prevent then repel dangers and with the same Policies to defend by which the Enemies offend resolveth by open wars to invade England He was also stirred unto this by his intelligence from his friends in France who had brought greater matters to pass then in so short a time could have been expected for concealed envy and old malice bursting out between Richard Duke of York and Edmund Duke of Sommerset Philip Duke of Burgundy being entred in friendship with King Charls the English began to be daily losers and were put out of Paris and many Towns of France To this effect King Iames having raised an Army cometh to Roxburgh a Place fatal to his and there besiegeth the Castle of Marchmond which is Roxburgh it was valiantly defended by Sir Ralph Gray but when he was come so near the end of his labours that they within the Castle were driven to terms of Agreement and conditions for giving up the Fort the Queen in great haste commeth to the Camp representing to her Husband a Conspiracy the greatness of the peril of which if it were not spâ—edily prevented should endanger his Estate Person and Race Whether she had any inckling of the Conspiracy indeed or contrived this to divert his Forces from the Assault and further harm of the English her Friends and Countrymen it is uncertain The King who found his imagination wounded upon this point after many doubtful resolutions and conflicts in his thoughts raiseth the Siege disbandeth the Army and accompanied with some chosen Bands of his most assured Friâ—nds returneth back to provide for his own safety A strange resolution to disband an Army for a tale of Treason where could there be greater safety for a King then in an Army Yet have Conspiracies been often in Camps and in his own Time Richard Earl of Cambridge brother to Edward Duke of York Henry Lord Scroope with Sir Thomas Gray Knight at the instigation of the Daulphine of France for a great sum of money conspired to murther Henry the Fifth King of England in the midst of his Armies if they had not been surprised The King feared all because he had not yet heard the names of any but most the Army by reason of the Nobility many of which who liked not the present form of Government were irritated against Him Were the
Allegiance bound to him and though he were bound to them and they to follow his commandment he would foresee whether it were to him honourable and to his Realm honest to leave their Old Friend of France in his extrem necessity without aid or comfoâ—t With this answer though the King was not content when Iames went out of his presence he is recorded to have said Happy shall they be which shall be subjects to a King endued with such wisdome of so tender years of age His severity in Justice was traduced by some under terms of cruelty but considering the Disorders of his Countrey by the fierce nature of the People over whom he ruled who by often Rebellions did not only exasperate him to some severity but even constrain him to keep them in aw his rigour was rather an effect of necessity than of his natural disposition No Prince did more reverently entertain Peace at Home amongst his Subjects nor more wiâ—lingly conclude the same amongst Strangers There is no Prince more cruel than he who by a facility and evil measured pitty suffers Robberies Rapes Murthers and all sort of opprâ—ssion and abuses to overturn his Countrey by which a whole State is interessed when the strictest Justice toucheth but some particular persons By him abuses were reformed defects repaired sedition and discord was put from the Nobles equity and industry restored to the Countrey every man had a certainty of enjoying his own and security Into all Men was either infused a will to do well or a necessity of so doing imposed upon them virtuous actions being honoured crimes punished The mean man did respect the great not fear him the great man did precede the mean not contemn him favour was mastered by equity Ambition by Virtue for the excellent Prince by doing well himself had taught his subjects so to do He was one of the worthiest of all the Kings of Scotland till his time of the former Kings it might have been said The Nation made them Kings but this King made that People a Nation He left behinde him one Son and six Daughters King Iames the second Margarite wife to Lewis the eleventh King of France Elizabeth Dutchess of Bretaigne Iane first of Anguss and then Countess of Huntley Elenora married to Sigismond Arch-duke of Austria Mary wife to the Lord of Camphire and Annabella he was buried in the Charter-house of Perth which he had founded where the Doublet in which he was slain was kept almost to our Time as a Relict and with execrations seen of the People every man thinking himself interested in his wrong The rumour of his Murther blazed abroad it is incredible what weeping and sorrow was through all the Countrey for even by them to whom his Government was not pleasant he was deplored and the act thought execrable The Nobles of their own accord and motion from all parts of the Kingdome assembled and came to Edenbrough and ere they consulted together as if they had all one mind directed troups of armed men through all the quarters of the Kingdome to apprehend the Murtherers and produce them to Justice Such diligence was used grief and anger working in their minds that within the space of fourty daies all the Conspiratours were taken and put to shameful deaths The common sort as Christopher Clawn or Cahown and others that were of the Council in the Conspiracy having had art or part in the plot were hanged on Gibbets The chief Actors that the Common wealth might publickly receive satisfaction were made spectacles of Justice by exquisite torments the punishment of Athole was continued three daies on the first he was stript naked to his shirt and by a Crane fixed in a Cart often hoised aloft disjointed and hanging shown to the People and thus dragged along the great Street of the Town on the second day he was mounted on a Pillar in the Market place he was crowned with a Diadem of burning Iron with a Plaâ—hart bearing The King of all Traytors thus was his Oracle accomplished on the third he was laid naked along upon a Scaffold his Belly was ript up his heart and Bowels taken out and thrown in a fire flickering before his eyes Lastly his head was cut off and fixed in the most eminent place of the Town his body sent in quarters to the most populous Cities of the Kingdom to remain a Trophie of Justice His Nephew Robert Stuart was not altogether so rigorously handled for that he did but consent to others wickedness being only hang'd and quarter'd But for that it was notorious Robert Graham had embrued his hands in the Kings bloud a Gallows being raised in a Cart he had his right hand nailed to it and as he was dragged along the Street Executioners with burning Pincers tearing the most fleshy parts off his Carcass being nip'd torn and flâ—y'd his heart and entrails were thrown in a fire his head exalted and his Quarters sent amongst the Towns to satisfy the wrath and sorrow of the injured people being asked during his torture how he dared put hand in his Prince he made answer that having Heaven and Hell at his choice he dared leap out of Heaven and all the contentments thereof in the flaming bottomes of Hell an answer worthy such a Traytor Aâ—neas Sylvius then Legate in Scotland for Pope Eugenius the fourth after Pope himself having seen this sudden and terrible Revenge being a witness of the Execution said he could not tell whether he should give them greater commendations that revenged the Kings death or brand them with sharper condemnation that distain'd themselves with so hainous a Parricide Iames King of Scotes AnoÌ„ 1436 THE HISTORY OF THE Reign of Iames the second KING of SCOTLAND SCarce were the tears dryed for the loss of the Father when the three Estates of the Kingdom meet 1654. and at Holy-rood-House set the Crown upon the head of the Son then a child in the sixth year of his age The Government of the Realm is trusted to Sir Alexander Levingstoun of Calendar the custody of the Kings person with the Castle of Edenbrough are given to the Chancelor Sir William Creightoun Men for that they had been ever faithful to the Father without apparent vices of no capacity to succeed nor entertaining aspiring thoughts for a Diadem held worthy of these charges and dignities Good men may secure themselves from Crimes but not from envy and calumnies for men great in trust in publick affairs are ever assaulted by the ambition of those who apprehend they are less in imployment than they conceive they are in merit Archembald Earl of Dowglass grudging mightily that the State had bestowed those honours upon men far inferiour to him as though by this the many merits of his Ancestours had been forgotten and his own service neglected They being ever accustomed in times of Peace to be nearest the Helm of the State and when any danger of war blazed sent abroad to encounter it In a confusion of
nothing agreed upon nor concluded they resolve at last to decide the cause by their swords The Earl of Crawâ—ord then remaining at Dundee advertized of the present danger of his friends posteth in all haste to Arbroth and cometh at the very chock of the skirmish and when they were to enter the fight Here intending by his wisdom to take up the Quarrel and presuming upon the respect due to his place and person he rashly rusheth forwards before his Companies to demand a parly of Alxander Ogleby with his Son but ere he could be known or was heard he is encountred by a common Souldier who thrust him in the mouth with a Spear and prostrate him dead upon the ground This sudden accident joyned the Parties who fought with great courage and resolution The Victory after much blood inclined to the Master of Crawford Alexanderâ—Ogleby sore wounded was taken and brought to the Castle of Finelvin where he died the Lord Huntley escaped by the swiftness of his Horse Iohn Forbess of Pitsligow Alexander Barkley of Garteley Robert Maxwell of Tillen William Gordoun of Borrowfield Sir Iohn Oliphant of Aberdaguy with others fell on the Oglebies side 1445. they fought the 24. of Ianuary 1445. Now by attending opportunities to increase publick disorders turn the times dangerous and troublesome and confound the State the Earl of Dowglass kept himself in the absolute Government by umbragious ways he nourished discontentments in all parts of the Country amongst the Nobility Gentry Commons of the Realm Alexander Earl of Crawford put to death Iohn Lynton of Dundee Robert Boyd of Duchal and Alexander Lyle â—lew Iames Stuart of Auchenmintee Patrick Hepburn of Haills surprised the Castle of Dumbar Archembald Dumbar as if he would but change places with him taketh the Castle of Haills where he was besieged by the Earl of Dowglass and with conditions of safety rendred it Sir William Creighton all this time kept the Castle of Edenburgh and when by intreaties nor power he could not be induced to render it to the King his Castle of Creighton is plundered a garrison placed in it and the Castle of Edinburgh by the Earl of Dowglass is besieged and blocked up Nine moneths the Assailers lie about it but it proveth impregnable and without loss of many Subjects cannot be taken about the end of which time mens courages waxing colder conditions are offered and received which were that the Chancellor should be restored to grace place and whatsoever hâ—d been withheld from him by his enemies at Court an abolition and abrogation of all former discontentments should be granted the besieged should pass out bag and baggage free At a Parliament holden at Perth the Chancellor was purged by an Assise of his Peers of what was laid against him his lands and goods seized upon by the King or Dowglasses are decreed to be restored as well to his followers as himself he is established in his dignities and places of honour notwithstanding of all Edicts Proclamation Confiscation before which were declared null all matters past put in oblivion as not done This considering the credit of the Earl of Dowglass was thought very strange but Iames Kennedie Bishop of St. Andrews whose respect and authority was great with the Church-men perfected this Master-piece of State and the Earl of Dowglass knew though the Chancellor was unbound he had not yet escaped During these Garboyls in Scotland Margaret Sister to King Iames and wife to the Daulphin of France Lewis died at Chalones in Champaigne a vertuous and worthy Lady beloved of all France but most of Charles the seventh her Father in Law who for her respect matched her three Sisters who remained at his Court honourably Hâ—lenora with Sigismond Arch-duke of Austria Elizabeth to the Duke of Bretaigne Mary with the Earl of Camphire She was buried in the great Church of Chalones but after when the Daulphine came to be King he caused transport and bury her in the Abbey Church of Laon in Poittow Many Elegies were published upon her death which are yet extant Sir Iames Stuart the Black Knight husband to the Queen at this time died also He had turned a voluntary exile to shun the dangers and envy of the Factions of the Country which he incurr'd by his free speeches against the misgovernment and miseries of the time and as he was bound â—owards Flanders by the Flemings was taken upon the Seas The Queen out-lived not long her Daughter and Husband â—he was buried the fifteenth of Iuly in the Charter-house of Perth near her first husband Iames the year 1446. She brought forth to the black Knight of Lorn three sons Iohn Eâ—rl of Athole Iames Earl of Buchane Andrew Bishop of Mâ—rray The Chancellor having recovered his honours and State to the disadvantage of the Earl of Dowglass though of good years and tyred with the troubles of publike life yet findeth not any desired rest A Marriage being designed for the King with Mary daughter of the Duke of Guilders by the instructions of Charls the seventh the French Kings but secretly by the procurement of the Earl of Dowglass the Chancellor as a Man grave great in plâ—ce and experimented with the Bishop of Dunkel and Nicholas Otterburn is sent over the Seas in Embassie This troublesom and unprofitable honor abroad is laid upon him that he might be separate from the King and suspended from opposing to the private designs of the Earl at home This obstacle of his ambition removed which had neither moderation nor limits the Earl may excluded such Officers in State or Court who were not agreeable to him and substitute others of his Creation after his pleasure he hath now room and opportunity for his greatest designs His kindred are without pausing preferred to Offices of State his brothers to new honours Archembald is made Earl of Murray by the Marriage of a Lady of the house of Dumbar who was Heir of the Lands and the Kings Ward George is created Earl of Ormond Iohn made Lord of Balvenie and hath his Donation ratified in an Assembly of three Estates who were convented at Edinburgh for matters concerning the Marriage of the King but in effect that the Earl might pursue his old enemies The Commissioners are chosen after his pleasure are prepared and instructed by him prelimitated and to combine power with craft he entreth in an offensive and defensive League with many Noblemen Barons and Gentlemen of the Kingdom All the wheels and vices of his Clock being right set Alexander Levingston late Governor Alexander his eldest son Robert Levingston Treasurer David Levingston Iames Dundes Robert Bruce of Clackmannan Knights for Peculate and converting the Princes Treasure to their private use are forfeited taken and committed to sundry Prisons in December 1447. at which time they were brought to Edinburgh Alexander the Governor Iames Dundas and Robert Bruce after Fines laid upon them were permitted back to Dumbarton there to be kept Prisoners during the Kings pleasure Alexander
the Governors Son a young man of great expectation with Robert Levingston Treasurer and David Levingston not so much by any crime proved against them as by the Divine Justice in punishing the severity of the Governor for the execution of the Earl of Dowglass in the Castle of Edinburgh had their heads cut off the people much deploring their misfortune By this blow the Earl of Dowglass thought he was more terribly avenged then if he had proved his power against the old man having thus as it were killed him twice Though by this strict Justice he pretended the publick weal his end was to govern all by his absolute Authority and make the world see what credit he had to help or harm when he pleased admire his pompous attendance his haughtie carrying of all business and his power in State The Chancellor having perfected his Embassie Mary daughter to Arnold Duke of Guilders born of the Duke of Borgundies Sister a Lady young beautifull and of a masculine constitution arriveth in Scotland and with great solemnity accompanied with many Strangers and the Nobility of the Kingdom is married to the King in the Abbey Church of Holy-rood-house As these Nuptial Rites were finished the Peace between Scotland and England expired and the Borders of both Kingdoms break and mutually invade others Amidst must robbery spoil and havock upon either side the Earl of Salisbury Lieutenant and Warden upon the West depopulateth the bordering Villages and burneth the Town of Dumfreis the Earl of Northumberland spoiling the east burneth the Town of Dumbar Iohn Dowglass Lord of Balvenny invadeth the English bounds and burneth the Town of Anwich the ravaging and depradations in a short time turning equal the two Kingdoms agree upon a suspension of Arms and place and day to treat about a general peace at the last by an assembly of the States 1449. A Truce is condescended unto for seven years At this time Alexander Seatoun Lord Gordon is created Earl of Huntley and George Leslie Earl of Rothes This Truâ—e was not long kept by any of the Nations but as it had been drawn and plaistered up for the fashion they conspire equally to break it New incursions are made slight skirmishes began to wound either side and banish peace just arms were constrained at last to be opposed to injurious oppressions The Scots having made desolate some parts of Cumberland an Army under the leading of the Earl of Northumberland is raised commanded by Magnus Red-beard whom the Scots by reason of the length of his beard named Magnus with the red Main A man trained from his youth in the Wars of France who is said to have required no more for his Service to the Crown of England then what he might by his own valour conquer of Scotland The English march from the West Borders pass the River of Soloway and Annand and encamp near the River of Sark the Earl of Dowglass declareth his brother George Earl of Ormond Lieutenant for the King against them who with the power of the South and West loseth no time to encounter the Earl of Northumberland the Lord Piercy his Son Magnus Red-bread Sir Iohn Pennington Sir Robert Harrington led the English Battalions The Earl of Ormond Lord Maxwell Lairds of Iohnston and Craiggy Wallace the Scottish Here occasion and place serving is it valiantly fought the fortune of the day long doubtfull till Magnus whose experience and direction in War in those days was deemed unparallâ—ld his courage here turning into temerity was beaten from his horse and slain After his fall many turning their backs the Earl of Northumberland himself with great danger eâ—caped more in the chase were lost then in the Battel such who assayed to pass the River by the confusion and weight of their Arms were plunged in the water other who could not finde the Foords being taken and brought to the Castle of Lochmaben amongst which were Sir Iohn Pennington Sir Robert Harrington the Lord Piercy who by saving his Father engaged himself Few renowned amongst the scots were here lost except Craiggy Wallace a principal actor who governing himself by honour and courage died of his wounds there received not many days thereafter The English to repair their loss raised an Army but by the daily supplies raised for France and their projected Civil Wars the Duke of York Earls of March Warwick and Salisbury beginning to toss the State it was kept at home for their own use and a truce was agreed upon the concluded with Scotland for the space of three years 1450. This Victory obtained chiefly by the valour of the Dowglasses advanced highly their credit with the young King and the Court sounded with nothing more then their praises But great Fortunes are as hard to bear as to acquire and ordinarily prosperity carryeth us into insolencies without pondering the consequence of our actions William Colvill Knight upon a private quarrel having slain Iames Auchinleck a follower of the Earl of Dowglass the Earl revenged his death not only with the slaughter of William but with the throwing down of his House and spoil of all his Lands which turned cold the affections of many about the Court towards him and made him terrible to all of a contrary faction to his After whether tyred with his working thoughts or to shun more hatred and envy or to try what time would produce amidst the inward grudges and rancours of Court or that he held his own Countrey too narrow Lists for his glory he leaveth the Kingdom substituting one of his Brothers Procurator for his affairs and in his absence to govern his estate accompanied with his Brother Mr. Iames a Man learned and brought up in Sorbon Divinity Expectant of the Bishoprick of Dunkel Iames Hamilton of Cadyow the Lords Grahame Seatoun Oliphant Saltoun and many Gentlemen he arriveth in Flanders cometh to France passeth the Alps and it being the year of Iubilee stayeth at Rome where he was honorably recevied and welcomed Envy never leaveth great actors he had not been long absent from his Prince when many are suborned to give up complaints against the oppressions riots wrongs of his Kindred Servants and Vassals The faults of his governing the King are pryed into every oversight and escape aggravated to the height The King at first was loth to lend an ear to misreports and calumnies of a man lately so well deserving and dearly of him beloved but overcome by importunity and urged by the numbers of Complainers he gave way that his Brother and Procurators should make answer for wrongs suffered by the Complainers after many citations his brother not appearing is at last by force presented to the Councel when he could not answer to such faults as were laid against the Earls Vassals and Followers nor acquit them of violent oppressions he was only enjoined to restore to the Complainers their loss and restore all damages Upon fair promises of Restitution the King bringeth him off the danger and obtaineth him liberty
innocent life renounce that Union and League with your Peers which excepted or commanded or approved or permitted by your Prince subsisteth not in Law nor in Reason being forbidden under great pains and let it not be heard any longer that ever such an unjust Confederation was and so wonted â—lemency shall be preferred before deserved Justice The Earl replyed The League being drawn up by the common consent of many Lords Barons and Gentlemen and subscribed it could not be cancell'd nor renounc'd but by their common consent nor was it profitable for the King nor to him other ways to have it done That being together they might condescend to the renouncing and cancelling of it But says the King you to shew good example to the rest shall first begin Neither living shall any Traytor in my presence disavow and disclaim my Authority in what is within my possibility of accomplishing The Earl requests him to remember he came to Court upon a publique assurance A publique assurance cannot so warrant any man but that he may fall by his own private misdemeanor answered the King withal considering a mean courage in a King to be an imputation and that he did neither wrong towards God nor his Fame in revenging himself upon the enemies of the State The place a strong Castle his present power all within being his Councellors and Servants the danger if he should escape the easiness of suppressing the Rebellion the head taken away The Earl continuing hot and stubborn in debating his points of the League wrath banishing other Doubts and Interests his Dagger performed what armed Justice scarâ—e dared attempt The Kings blow the noise arising was seconded by a number of his Servants who rushing in the Room left him dead upon Shrewd-Eve the 22. of February 1452. About the last Scene of this Tragedy a pair of Spurs between two Platters an Emblem of speedy flight as a part of the Kings Banquet is directed to Sir Iames Hamilton of Cadyow This he communicateth to the Lords and Gentlemen of the Union in which time the News of the Earls death is spread abroad The Lieguers finding themselves weak to carry so strong a place as the Castle in hot blood set on fire divers quarters of the Town of Sterlin make Proclamation against the King and his Councel for violating the assurâ—nce granted to the Earl Infamous Libels are spread every where and the safe Conduct of the King and his Councel bound to a wooden Truncheon at a Horâ—es tail is trailed along the streets In the Market-place by the mouth of a Cryer to the sound of all their hunting-horns they declare the King and those that abode with him Faith-breakers perjured persons enemies to all goodness and good men Iames the next brother of the House of Dowglass a Church-man being proclaimed Earl in rage and madness committing all sort of Hostility they over-run the Lands and Possessions of those whom they suspected would side the King and not prove of their party Iohn Lord of Dalâ—eith their Kinsman and of the Name of Dowglass they besiege in his Castle of Dalkeith for that he hated their proceedings the Tenants and Vassals of the Earl of Anguss are plunderâ—d for the same cause The strength of the place raised the Siege of Dalkeith and the Earl of Auguss by their many wrongs and insolencies remained more constant to the King In this time the King writeth to all the good Towns of the Realm and Church-men giving reasons for the taking away the Earl imputing the fault to the Earl himself exhorting the people to make no stir for the just execution of a Man born for the ruine of the Kingdom and who voluntarily had precipitated himself in his own mis-hap offering all his power to keep the Countrey in quietness according to that Authority in which God hath placed him This blow as particular Interests made the hearts of men incline and as passions were various was variously and in several maners taken Some without inquiring of circumstances after what fashion or occasion soever done allowing it thought the King had more clear and evident inducements for his deed then could fall within the Labyrinths of reasoning The Majesty of a Prince hardly falleth from an height to a midst but easily is precipitated from any midst to the lowest degree and station The King said-they hath obviated this fall hath set a foot again and raised his Authority threatned with ruine he hath vindicated his liberty almost thraâ—ld hath assured the Lives Honors Estates of many loyal Subjects which were endangered by not adhearing to the league of the Earl and keeping their Oath of Allegeance to the King he if he please now with Honor and Reputation may hold his Parliaments bring to pass his designs for the conservation of his Authority and the peace of his Subjects Other blamed this Deed everywhere and in every circumstance laying perjury and murther against him and the breaking of the publick Faith and Assurance the common Band of humane Society the common defence of all and the ground of Justice To which it was answered that the Earl was not taken away for his past demerits and misdeservings but for what he had recently committed in the Kings own presence having spoken to him with an insupportable irreverence They which have safe conduct being obliged to shun all kindes of offence towards him who gives it them any enormity being sufficient to annull the benefit of it More for the breach of Faith the Earl and his confederates were the more perjured and he the murtherer of himself they having violated that Natural Oath to their King which all Subjects owe to their Soveraigns by drawing up a League among his People to the breaking of the tyes of Soveraignty giving by this occasion and just cause to the King to reward them after their demerits Most said the killing of the Earl was evil but that it was a necessary evil That as Nature suffereth not two Suns so Reason of State suffereth not that in one Kingdom their be two Kings but that of necessity the one must overthrow the other and matters going thus he who giveth the first blow hath the advantage Thus did Men judge diversly after their proper interests of the Deeds of others The Torrent of these disorders increasing Laws are neglected Towns Villages Houses the High-ways are every-where afflicted with Rapine Fire and Fury and save needy boldness nothing is safe and secure in any place The changing Multitude like Mad-men limning Pourtraicts with their won blood delight in their Proceedings and daily increase the number of the Rebels In this Insurrection the King is reduced to many extremities and is said to have thought upon an escape Sea to France if he had not been diverted by Iames Kennedie Bishop of St. Andrews who told him that to leave the Kingdom was to give all over to the insolency of his Rebels and for fear of burning to leap into the fire it self That besides the
high and long continued title of a King which the best part of his Subjects yet reverenced he had sufficient Friends and Warlike men who appearing in a Field with him would raise a just fear in the hearts of those who so hainously dared disobey him That God would be present to revenge wronged Majesty and turn their hopes in despair That the Common People were ever changing and a little time would make them flow to these from whom they did ebb and all would return again except such as were guilty of other offences or such whose poverty made them fear a beggerly Peace as their greatest punishment That his chiefest and principall City stood good for him which example the other Towns would undoubtedly follow that Rebellion was like Thunder the noise of which if observed duely was often more terrible then the blow and dissolved ordinarily in tears of Repentance and fair Weather that here the prudence of Prince manifesteth it self when he cannot suppress and stop all the evils in his State to suffer and tolerate the least and with leasure and time abolish and extirpate the greater and make vertue of Rebellion The King by the Bishops Counsel and Assistance gathereth an Army but will not try the hazard of a Battel before those he had advertised and sent for should-joyn with these already about him and his Forces from all the Quarters of the Kingdom be united In the North the Earl of Huntley had raised a goodly Company to come to his aid but the Earl of Crawford a Confederate of the Earl of Dowglass with a power of the men of Anguss and all who would follow him guided by some French Commanders essayed to cut off his passage and rencountreth him at Brecheâ— the Battel is fought and the victory inclined where the Kings Standard was displayed by the Earl of Huntley The equity of the cause laid aside the occasion of this Victory was ascribed to Iohn Coloss of Bonnymoon who having one of the wings of the Army to guide which confisted of battel-axes great swords and long spears and the best invasive weapons in the hottest of the skirmish gave ground and left the middle Ward naked upon his side the reason of his revolt is reported that the night before the Battel when every man was resolving with his affairs of the world Bonnymoon requested the Earl of Crawford of whom he held his Lands Ward and relief since the next day he was resolved either to be victorious or die in the field to subscribe a Precept himself falling for entring his Son to his Lands This the Superiour refusing the Vassal out of a just indignation when he should have charged retired and his Company with him Such thoughts possessed not the Earl of Huntlies minde he dealt not so sparingly with his friends in hope of their good service To the Forbesses Oglebies Leslies Grants Irwines he freely gave many of his own lands which raised their courage to the height In requital of which the King after bestowed upon him the Lands of Badyeenoâ—h and Lochâ—ber In the conflict the Earl of Huntley lost two Brothers the Earl of Crawford and Sir Iohn Lindsay his brother being left on the Field fled to his house of Phanheaven where he was heard to say He would be content to remain seven years in Hell to have in so timely a season done the King his Master that Service the Earl of Huntley had performed and carry that applause and thanks he was to receive from him This conflict happened upon the Ascention day the 18 day of May 145â— The King by the confluence and resort of many worthy Subjects unto him having time to breathe and finding himself in a calm keepeth a Convention of the States at Edenburgh Ere the Earls of Douglass Crawford Ormond Murray the Lord Balvenye Sir Iames Hamilton and others are cited to answer according to Law They instead of appearing in the Night upon the Doors of the principal Churches and other places eminent fix many Placates and Libels signed with their hands which bear the Earl of Douglass nor his Followers will never obey command nor charge in time coming nor answer citation for that the King is not a just Master but a Blood-sucker a Murtherer a Transgressor of Hospitality a Surpriser of the Innocent and such who deserved no harm at his hands Not long after the King levied an Army which by the approaching Winter did little Service and the Earl of Douglass to save the Lands of Beatrice his Brothers Widow unseparated from the House sought by a Dispensation from the Pope to have her in Marriage alledging her untouched of his Brother which being refused him he kept her in place of his wife the effect of his Sorbon Divinity and found hereby more Bryers then Roses The Barl of Crawford placing two stricts of Seas betwixt him and the King spoileth the Lands of all those who forsook him at Brechen and Arckembald Earl of Murray burneth the Pile of Srath-Boggy pertaining to the Earl of Huntley In revenge of which the Earl of Huntley burnt and herried all the Lands of the Earl of Murray beyond the Spey The King too in this madness of Man-kinde defaceth his own Countrey pulling down the Houses of his Rebel-Subjects and wasting Annan-dale This ravage and mutual overturning of all having continued almost two whole years the Faction of the Earl far inferior to the Kings now weakned with such lasting Incursions sundry of the chief men and heads considering the least faults were the best that it was better to strike fail in time then make a full Shipwrack of their persons Honors and the well of the Kingdom and State counsel the Earl that Fervors growing colder since it could not be undone which was done he would not set greater work on foot but proceeding with conveniency submit himself friendly to the King who had as much goodness as generosity and sought and required nothing of his Subjects but obedience and having now prove how difficile it was to overcome them by Arms was perhaps as much tyred as they would pardon these faults which he could not otherways amend Necessity in Affairs of Princes constraining them to yield to many things in Government against their first Conclusions and resolve to grant that which they could not well hinder That there were many hours in the day and the hearts of Princes were subject to change in them that he should not â—orsake the publique weal of the Kingdom for his private Considerations That after this trouble of State he might be more esteemed and sought after by the King as it is ordinarily practised among Princes and great men who affect onely that which is necessary unto them To these the Earl answered That they had went too far forwards to think upon any cowardly reâ—reat and coming back again that the onely vertue under a Tyrant was to die constantly that other vertues did fight but constancy alone triumphed That for himself he would
never trust his life to the mercy of those who â—nder colour of friendship and banqueting had first made away his two Kinsmen and after his own Brother for if they being Innocents were thus handled what might he expect who had been the occasion of such distraction in the State He that once had broken his faith except by a surety is unable again in Law to contract and enter in Bond with any Who will be surety between a King and his Subjects That Treaties Agreements Covenants Bargains of a Prince with Rebellious Subjects engage him no farther no longer then the Term-time or day which pleaseth him to accept observe and keep them as they turn or may turn to his utility and advantage that as in Nature there is no regress found from privation to an habit so neither in State men once disgraced do return to their former Honors That Princes mortally hated all Subjects who had either attempted to over-rule them by power or had cast any terror upon them and howsoever by constraint they bear sail for a time in the end they were sure payâ—masters That there was nothing more contrary to a good Agreement then to appear to be too earnest and busie to seek to obtain it he would sue for none That all his days he had loved sincerity constancy and fidelity and could not unsay and recant what he had promised and practised nor do against his heart His friends and his own standing was by their Swords which should either advance their enterprizes and turn them Victors or they would die Honorably like themselves and men and not ignobly be murthered like Beasts This free and dangerous resolution of the Earl moved many who heard to provide for their own safety and resolve not to suffer long misery for other mens folly finding this war was not like to have any end and that danger and death would be the only reward of their Rebellion Amongst others the Earl of Crawford after great adversity when he could not move the Earl of Dowglass to submit himself to the Kings clemency with many tears and protestations of his sincere love and counsel to him left him and some weeks after as the King was in progress in Anguss in a sad penitential manner accompanied with his best friends coming in his way with much humility and sorrow He acknowledged his fault pleading rather for pity to his house which had so long flourished then to his person The King knowing his Example would be no small occasion to weaken the power of the Earl of Dowglass and that of all the Rebels he was the greatest object of his Clemency was content to receive him but he would have it done by the mediation of lames Kennedie Bishop of St. Andrews and the Lord Creightoun once his greatest Enemies which he refused not to embrace Thus freely remitted with those who accompanyed him he returned to his own house of Phanheaven where within few moneths he died of a burning Ague The three Estates after assembled at Edinburgh where Iames Earl of Dowglass the Countess Beatrix whom he kept by way of a pretended Marriage Archembold Dowglass Earl of Murrey George Earl of Ormond Iohn Dowglass Lord of Balveny with others their adherents friends and followers are Attainted of High Treason and their Lands and Goods are Confiscate and discerned to be seized on to the Kings use The Earldom of Murrey is given to Iames Creighton who had married the eldest Daughter of the Earl of Murrey but he perceiving he could not possess it in peace turned it back again to the King At this time George Creightoun was created Earl of Caithness William Hay Constable Earl of Arrole Darly Halles Boyd Lyle and Lorn Lords of Parliament the King maketh a rode into Galloway reducing every strong hold and Castle of the Countrey to his Power Dowglass-dale he abandoned to the spoil of the Souldier Matters at home turning desperate the Earl of Dowglass being brought to that pass that he knew not to what to wish or fear Iames Hammilton of Cadyow is sent to England to invite the ancient enemy of the kingdom to take a part of her spoil and help to trouble the King But the English had greater business amongst themselves then could permit them to Wedd the Quarrels of the Earl After Sir Iames Hamiltoun was returned with an excuse and regret that some of the English Lords could not supply their Confusion but only by their Counsel he advised the Earl of Dowglass to trust to his own Power and Forces which were sufficient measuring their Courage and not counting their heads to hold good against the King There was no humane affairs where men were not necessitated to run some danger nor any business taken in hand with such a certainty which by unknown causes and even light ones might not run a hazard of some mishap That he should study to embrace and accept of what was most honorable and least dangerous it was better once to try the worst then ever to be in fear of it it was fit for him to commit something to fortune and wisdom could counsel nothing but to shun the greatest evil This lingring war would not only tire but over-come and vanquish them when one fair day of battel either by death or victory would Crown their desires Others advised him not to hazard upon a Battel except upon seen and approved advantage and to time it out a while in this lingring war a Truce might be agreed upon which ere long might turn in a Peace in which every thing passed might be forgotten and pardoned That Wars were managed more by occasions and times then by arms That the King could not be now but tyred since he had learned that by essaying by arms to overcome them he had gained nothing but trained up his Subjects whom he called Rebels in all warlike Discipline and had his Countrey spoiled and the Policy defaced Should they once enter in blood all hopes were gone of any conditions of peace At this time the King besieging the Castle of Abercorn to relieve the besieged hither marcheth with all his Forces the Earl of Dowglass being come within view of the Kings Army he observeth their march slow the countenances of his Souldiers altered much whispering and their spirits in a manner dejected Countrymen were to fight against Countreymen friends against friends and all against their Prince Interpreting this rather to proceed from their weariedness then want of good will to enter the Lists as well to refresh and cherish them to be more prompt and lusty of courage the next morning as to take counsel what course to follow and how to dispose of their Game he stayeth that afternoon and pitcheth his Tents To men unfortunate every thing turneth an Enemy Whether Sir Iames Hamilton gave way to this or not uncertain but after it is said that in a chase he told the Earl he had neglected the opportunity of Fight and should never see so fair
followers not onely granting pardons but forgetting the offences knowing it was better to heal and cure the faulty and sick members of a State then to abolish and cut them away and more valor for a Prince to overcome his own passions and just wrath then to vanquish and subdue his proudest enemies yet was not his clemency a soft weakness it being no less cruelty to forgive all then to spare none but an order and discretion in Justice temperate with severity towards some more then towards others according to their demerits He was very sensible of the afflictions of such as were distressed as witness the Countesses of Douglas and Ross His life having set in the Orient of his Age and hopes he deserveth in the Records of Memory and Fame a place amongst the best but unfortunate Princes He had Issue of his Queen Iames who succeeded Alexander Duke of Albany Iohn Earl of Mar Margaret Countess of Arrain by the Boyd and after Lady Hamilton Cecily He was buried with all Funeral-pomp within the Monastery of Holyrood-house at Edinburgh Iames. III. king of Scots AnoÌ„ 1460 R. G. fecit THE HISTORY OF THE Reign of Iames the third KING of SCOTLAND THE Queen having tidings of the disaster of her Husband full of griefs and cares with her Son came to the Army at Roxburgh and the publick loss being revealed for till then it was whispered with more then a masculine courage caused give new and desperate assaults to the Castle many Turrets being shaken some Gates broken parcels of walls beaten down the Mines ready in diverse quarters to Spring the besieged ignorant of the Assailars misfortune and by the dissention of their Countrey-men from all hopes of relief treat upon a surrender conditions being obtained peaceably to depart with their lives and goods the Fortress is given up and shortly after that it should not be a Residence of oppression in following times is demolished and equall'd with the ground Many of the three Estates being here assembled the Times not suiting with other Solemnities at Kâ—lso the Peers of the kingdom in a Military Pomp set the Crown upon the head of the King then some seven years old and give him their Oath of Fidelity At their coming to Edinburgh the education and governance of him and the other Children is committed to the Queen their Mother the Credence of what could make for Peace at home or War abroad is trusted to Andrew Stuart Lord Annandale the Lord Cassils Earl of Orknay the Lord Boyd Chancellor the Lord Grahame the Bishops of St. Andrews Glasgow and Dunkel the Civil Wars increasing in England the Governors of Scotland under colour of preserving the bordering Countreys sent forth some Companies which upon occasions made Roads in Northumberland and threw down all the Fortresses out of which Incursions were wont to be made upon the Scottish bounds most especially the Castle of Wark after which ravaging the Winter recalled them home The milder parts of the Kingdom reduced to order Some turbulent Chiefs of the Mountainers taking the occasion of the Non-age of the King and of Rumors of Dissentions amongst the Governors essay to trouble the Peace of their far and wilde Countreys Allan Lord of Lorn throweth his eldest Brother in close Prison with intention to rob him of his Life and Estate but he after is surprized by the Earl of Argile Donald of the Isâ—es taketh the Castle of Innerness and placing there a Garrison proclaimeth himself King of the Isles compelling the neighbour Towns and simpler sort of people to pay him Taxes At the Rumor of this insolency all wicked Out-Laws resort unto him by whose power he invadeth the Castle of Blair in Athole out of which the Earl the Kings Uncle with his Lady once Countess of Dowglass flie and take Sanctuary in the Church of St. Bride where the Church about them set on fire they were irreligiously taken and transported to the Island Ila Whilst the Governors were raising an Army and advancing such forces as were in readiness against the Actors of these mischiefs they were ascertained that as these Savages were lanching forth of that Island in their VVherries and small Vessels made of boards and wicker by a violent tempest from Heaven the most part of them were dashed against the rocks and drowned and those who had escaped were strucken with Pannick fears and deprived of their right judgments and understandings an ordinary accident to men blinded with Superstition and guilty of Murther and Sacriledge amidst which distractions the Earl of Athole with his Lady was safely returned to his own Castle MARGARET Queen of England after the second overthrow and taking of her Husband at Northampton with the Prince her Son and the new Duke of Somerset having fled to the Bishoprick of Durham whilst Richard Duke of York was establishing his Title and right to the Crown at London raised in the North of Scots and English a strong Army which marched towards York the Duke of York leaving the King in the Custody of the Duke of Norfolk and the Earl of Warwick though he knew himself inferior in power and number to his enemies by the pride of his former Victories and over-weening of his Souldiers valor with Edmund Earl of Rutland his yonger Son the Earl of Salisbury and others rencountreth her at Wakâ—field-Green and here by his own rashness with his Son yong Rutland he is killed The Earl of Salisbury is taken and with other Prisoners beheaded at â—romfret Caâ—tle their heads were fixed upon Poles about the Walls of the City of York that of the Dukes was mocked with a Paper Crown and exposed to the barbarous mirth of the beholders The Queen encouraged by this Victory desiring to disannul all Actâ— made lately in prejudice of her Husband marcheth couragiously towards London In which time Edward Earl of March Son to the late Duke of York overthrew the Earls of Pembrook and Ormond both of the Queens Faction at Mortimer-Cross in her way to London the Queen meeting the Earl of Warwick and the Duke of Norfolk at St. Albans who carryed King Henry her husband along with them overthrew them and recovered the person of her King It is observed that Victory always fled from where this King was present The Citizens of London at the approach of the Queens Army fearing Hostility shut their Gates against her and armed for resistance At this time Edward Earl of March having joyned his 〈◊〉 Army with the remainder of the Earl of Warwicks entred in triumph the City of London and with great applause and acclamations of the people was proclaimed King Queen Margaret and her Faction retiring to the North waâ— so the hearts of that people that they gathered an Army able to stand for her defence consisting of Threescore thousand fighting men Edward Earl of March choosing rather to provoke then expect his enemies advanced towards them the place of their meeting was between Caxton and Tewton In this fight the Earls of
Northumberland and Westmerland the Lords Beaumont and Dacres Grey and Wells were slain and above Thirty six thousand English struck down The Dukes of Somerset and Excester flie to York to carry the News to the unfortunate King leaving the Victory to Edward who is again saluted King King Henry after this overthrow perceiving how desperate his hopes were in his own Countrey with his Queen his Son and the remainder of his dispersed friends secured himself by flight into Scotland Iames Kennedy Bishop of St. Andrews to whose person the Authority of the State was then reduced received him with magnificence and honor and put him in hopes by the assistance of Scotland to restore his fortune King Henry as well to reserve some Refuge and Sanctuary for himself as to win the heart and insinuaâ—e himself in the favor of the people of Scotland caused render the Town of Berwick to them which the English had violently possessed since the days of Edw. 1. For which favor the Scottish Nobility vowed at all times to come to his supply and defend him to their uttermost and that the friendship begun might continue without all vacillation the Queens of Scotland and England both descended of the French Race began to treat of an Alliance promising Edward Prince of Wales should be marryed with the Lady Margaret the King of Scotlands Sister none of them then having attained the years of marriage The miseries of King Henry increasing suffered not these two Queens to stay long together Margaret with her Son Edward to implore the ayd of her friends maketh a Voyage towards France to her Father Rhene King of Sicily Naples and Ierusalem Duke of Anjou a Prince large of Titles short of Power These who had followed King Henry into Scotland whilest he is left onely intentive to devotion in the Cloyster of the Gray-Fryers at Edenburgh return back again to sollicite their friends in England for a second rencounter Upon the arrival of Queen Margaret in France the obtaineth of her cousin Lewis the eleventh that those who favored and assisted the Duke of York were prohibited Traffique and commanded to remove out of the Frenh Dominions and that Five hundred Soldiers should come to her ayd a number so small and so unworthy the name of an Army that it was but a competent retinue for so great a Princess with these she came to the coast of Scotland and from thence sailed to Tinmouth where being repulsed by the Inhabitants and forced again to put to Sea sâ—e was by a furious Tempest driven to Berwick Here leaving the Prince her Son Edward with the enâ—rease and supply of some Scots taking the King her husband with her she advanced into the Bishoprick of Duresm in her march through Northumberland her Army increased to a great number The Duke of Somerset Sir Ralph Percy and divers of King Henrys well-wishers having resorted unto her King Edward finding King Henry by the fresh air of the North to have acquired new Spirits prepareth to oppose him and having sent down the Lord Mountague brother to the Earl of Warwick he himself with greater Forces shortly followed Mountague having through the Shires where he went and the Bishoprick of Duresm gathered a convenient Army marched directly against King Henry In the mean time Henry â—eaufort Duke of Somerset the Lords Hungerford Ross Moulines Sir Ralph Percy present themselves to hinder his further progress They are overthrown and King Henry with great difficulty escapeth to Berwick At the news of this overthrow King Edward being in his March towards Durham finding the presence of his Person or Army needless turned towards York and gave the Earl of Warwick command to take in all the Castles and Fortresses which as yet held good for King Henry in the North. Amongst the Garrisons placed in Northumberland by the Queen there was a Garrison of the French in the Castle of Anwick under the Command of Peter Bruce otherwise named le Seigneur de la Varoune Seneschal of Normandy which held long good against the English This Peter Bruce was in great account with Charles the seventh father to Lewis but sent over with Queen Margaret to make wrack upon apparent dangers having escaped Tempests at Sea he took the Castles of Bambrough and Dunstanbrough which he demolished After he essayed to keep the Castle of Anwick but the Earl of Warwick King Edward lying near to Durham there beleagured him Whether this man came from the Race of the Bruces of Scotland or no is uncertain for the vulgar Writers in this detract him naming him Bryce and a Bretone or that the Scots would give a proof of their friendship to the Queen of England and of their valour to the French whilst he is everywhere beset and near past hope of relief the Earl of Anguss then Warden of the Marshes raised a Power of twenty three thousand horseâ—men remarkable for their Valour These about the midst of the day coming near the Castle of Anwick and by their colours and arms being known a far to Captain Bruce he taketh a resolution to sally out and meet them the strongest of the Scottish Horsemen rrceiving them convoy them safely to their Borders some of the Besiegers would have fought in the pursuit but the English General gave him fair passage King Edward having taken all the Castles and Forts which in the North held out against him placing Garrisons in them returned to London as King Henry void both of counsel and courage came back to Edinburgh Here he had not long stayed when tired with the tediousness of his exile the prolonging of a wretched Life being more grievous to him then death it self and allured by false hopes of his Friends he resolveth to hazard upon a return to his own Kingdom his Grown lost all his Favorers and wel-wishers almost slaughtered he cometh into England then disguised and by night journeys shifting from place to place at last betrayed by some of his Servants he is found out It is recorded a Son of Sir Edward Talbots apprehended him as he sate at Dinner at Wadding Town-hall and like a Common Malefactor with his legs under the horse belly guarded him up towards London By the way the Earl of Warwick met him who led him Prisoner to the Tower Margaret his desolate Queen with her Son is driven once again to flie to their Father Rhene into France King Edward his Competitors all dead or suppressed finding a Cessation of Arms expedient and a breathing time from War to settle and make sure his new Government as to other his neighbour Princes for peace sendeth Embassadors to Scotland to treat for a Truce for some years The Earl of Argile Bishop of Glasgow Abbot of Holyrood-house Sir Alexander Boyd Sir William Cranstoun being chosen to this effect Commissioners come to York and the English Commissioners there attending them a Truce for fifteen years is agreed upon and solemnly by both Kings after confirmed Mary Queen of Scotland daughter to
Arnold Duke of Gilders and mother to King Iames the projected Marriage of her Daughter with Edward Prince of Wales by the miseries of King Henry and Queen Margarite her kinswoman proving desperate her son Alexander either as he went to the Low-Countries to see his Grand-father or returned from him being by the English taken upon the Seas limited in credence of governing her children by the insolency of a proud Nobility her Reputation branded after a long languishing with inward discontentments turned as it were recluse and began to bid farewel to this world Her melancholy growing incureable amidst her last Trances when her Son had come to visit her the is said to have spoken to him almost to this sense That Providence which brought me upon the Earth and set a Crown on my head doth now recal and remove me to a better Kingdom and my happiness is not in this a little that I leave this life without change of that estate in which I peaceably lived Death now sheweth me as in a mirrour the frailty of all worldly Pomp and glory which before by the marble colours of false greatness was overshadowed and covered from me My Griefs have been many few my Contentments The most eminent of which was the hopes I conceived of you and my other children And now may greatest regret is that I leave you before I could see my wishes accomplished towards you My onely care was to have you brought up in all vertue and goodness But Heaven shall bestow that charge to more prudent Governors Always take these motherly directions from me who can leave you no better Legacy Be earnest to observe these Commandments which are prescribed unto you by Religion for this supporteth the Scepters of Princes and a Religious King cannot but have obedient Subjects What an unreasonable thing is it that a King will have a People to acknowledge him for their Soveraign Prince upon Earth and will not acknowledge God for his supream Lord in Heaven A King who rebelleth against God all subordinate Creatures will rebel against him Love my children and laying aside the Port and Stateliness of a King receive them with the affection of a Brother Endeavor to make your Subjects obey you more out of Love then Fear or make your self beloved and feared both together seeing love alone of it self is often cause of contempt and fear alone begets hatred Remember ye Govern not the soft effeminate People of the South but a sierce Warlike Nation of the North which oftner use to be intreated then commanded by their Princes Be sparing to lay Subsidies on them which maketh many Male-contents and live upon your own suffering others to enjoy what is theirs Beware of Flatterers and exalting undeserving Persons above your ancient Nobility Suffer not your Prerogatives to come in Question but foreseeing the danger rather give way to all that with reason is demanded of you Moderate your Passions He shall never Govern a Kingdom who cannot govern himself and bring his Affections within the Circle of Reason It fears me Envy and Malice arm themselves against you which to overcome endeavor to be Martial in your self for a Prince that is not Martial in himself shall never be freed of Rebell on amongst his subjects a strong arm should hold the Ballance of Iustice When dissention ariseth be not a Loyterer and Sluggard but with all celerity suppress it in the infancy Rebellion is like fire in a City which should be quenched though with the pulling down of the neighbour Houses Others will instruct you in the art of Governing with greater curiosity and wisdom but not with the like love and affection I wish this Counsel be ingraven in your heart and conscience after my death for a perpetual testimony of my sincerity in your education And if by the unjust counsel of others ye be brought to practise ought contrary to these instructions Remember ye cannot shun inevitable dangers both to your State and Person But now I am warned from above to deliver this griefâ—full Body to the rest of a desired Grave After she had thus counselled and blessed her Son not living many days she was buried with all Solmnities and Funeral-Rites at Edinburgh in the Colledge of the Trinity which she her self had Founded in the year 1466. 1466. The King as he increased in years increasing in strength and ability for exercises either of recreation or valour by the Regents is given to a Brother of the Lord Boyd to be bred in Knightly Prowess a man singular for his Education abroad and demeanor at home The Kennedies were now aged and become tyred to give such assiduous attendance at Court as they were wont and the times required The Lord Boyd by the weakness of his Co-partners governed the State alone as Sir Alexander his Brother did the young King To whose Natural inclination he did so comply and conform himself that he had the whole trust of his affairs and the King had no thoughts but his So soon as the King began to know himself he turned impatient of being subject to the Laws of Minority that he himself should be restrained by that Authority which did derive from him to loath the Superintendency and Government of others and to affect an unseasonable Priviledge to be at his own disposal and the governing himself Many things are done without the advice of the Governors and occasion is sought to be disburdened of their Authority The Lord Boyd and his Brother in a little time increasing in greatness and having an intention to transfer the Power of the State and Glory of the Court to their Family fail not to finde opportunity to free the King from the severity and rigour of the Governors Schooling and to frame him an escape Whilst the King remained at Linlithgow the Lord Hayls Lord Sommervail Sir Andrew Carre of Cesford Sir Alexander Boyd agree upon a match of Hunting and will have the King Umpire of the Game Early the morning following the Gentlemen who were upon the Plot failed not in their Attendance The King being a mile off the Town and holding the way towards Edinburgh the Lord Kennedy whose quarter then was to attend and who had leasurely followed suspecting this Hunting to be a Game of State the King continuing his Progress laying his hands upon the Reins of his Bridle requested him to turn again to Linlithgow for that he perceived the time was not convenient for him to go further neither was heat a convenient match in absence of his best deserving followers Sir Alexander Boyd impatient that the King should have been thus stayed after injurious words stroke the Reverend Governour with a Hunting-staff upon the head and took the King along with him to Edinburgh At a frequent meeting of the States the Kennedies urged to have the King continue under Minority the Boyds to take the Government in his own Person after long contestations wisdom being overcome by boldness the Authority of the better
party was forced to give place and yield to the will of the greater Thus the Faction of the Boyds prevailed After this the Kennedies full of indignation and breathing Revenge leave the Court cares grief and age about this time brought Iames Kennedie Bishop of St. Andrews to his Tomb which in great magnificence he had raised in a Church builded by himself in the City of St. Andrews where also he founded a Colledge of Philosophy and indued it with many Priviledges and sufficient Endowments to entertain Professors By the Death of this Prelate venerable for his Wisdom singular for his Justice and the tranquillity following his Government and magnificent in all his actions the Glory of the Court and Country suffered a great Eclipse For he taken away the Boyds laying Foundations for their power and greatness began to turn all to their own advantage The first mark of their envy was Patrick Graham the Brother of Bishop Iames Kennedie by the Mother who was Sister to ' King Iames the first after this man had been chosen Bishop of St. Andrews as the Custom then was by the Chapter appointed for that Election he was barred from his Place and violently repulsed by the Faction at Court To repair which indignity he made a journey to Rome where being a Man noble by birth above others for his Learning and many Virtues in a little time by Pope Sixtus the fourth he was re-established and confirmed in his Place During his abode at Rome the old Question concerning the liberty of the Church of Scotland began to be exagitated The Archbishop of York contested that he was Metropolitan of Scotland and that the twelve Bishops of that Kingdom were subject to his Jurisdiction Patrick Graham remonstrated how the Archbishop of York considering the usual Wars between the two Kingdoms was often unaccessable to the Church-men of Scotland especially in Causes of appellation The Pope after the hearing of both Parties erected the See ofs St. Andrews to the dignity of an Archbishops See and Patrick Graham not only was made Primate and Metropolitan of Scotland ordained to have the other Bishops under him but for the space of three years designed Legate for the Pope with full power to Correct and Restore the Ecclesiastical Discipline and examine the Manners and Conversation of the Clergy Notwithstanding these favors of the Bishop of Rome and the worth and excellencies of the man himself he dared not return home to his own Country before the declining of the Fortunes of the Boyds This Family seemed now in the Zenith and Vertical point of its greatness no imputation could be laid to the Boyds in the time of their Government except that they brought the young King by their private working without the consent and approbation of the other Regents to Edinburgh for the assuming the Government in his Minority In approbation of their innocency and to warrant them from this danger the King in a Parliament declareth publickly that the Boyds were not the Authors nor Projectors of that business but only the Assisters of him and his followers being not formal but instrumentary causes of his coming to the Helm of the State himself That they were so far from being obnoxious to any blame or reproach for this deed that they deserved immortal thanks and an honorable Guerdon in all time to come having obeyed him in that which was most just honest and expedient for the well of the Kingdom Upon this Declaration of the King the Lord Boyd required the present action might be registrated amongst the Acts of Parliament and he obtained what was desired but not with that success was hoped for In this Parliament the other Regents are rid of their charge the Lord Boyd being made only Governor of the Kingdom and the object of all mens respects having the whole power and authority to minister justice of all kinds to the Subjects during the Kings non-age and â—ill he had fully compleat one and twenty years the defence of the Kings Person of his brothers the keeping of the two Ladies his Sisters are trusted unto him He hath all the Towns Castles Fortresses Sea-ports Places of Importance at his Command These proceedings of the Parliament seemed to some very strange in advancing Men already great enough and bestowing upon them all offices of State and adding power to such who wanted only will to do mischief except that they knew well how to abase and pull them down again making their fall the more sudden Robert Lord Boyd having the Reins of Government in his hands and the custody of the Kings Sisters dazelld with the golden Sun of honour to lay more sure the foundation of his greatness joyneth in Marriage Thomas his eldest Son a youth of extraordinary endowments both of minde and body with Margaret the Kings eldest Sisteâ— Not long before designed by her Mother to have been given in Marriage to Edward Prince of Wales and he is created Earl of Arran The Father knowing how easily the conversation of young persons breedeth a liking had brought them up together which turning in a love and delight of others company concluded last in mariage This match though royal great and rich instead of supporting the Fortunes of the Boyds much weakened them turning them the objects of envy The Nobles repined at it and the common people lighter than the wind and more variable than the Rain-bow made it the subject of their foolish discourses Now said they the Boyds aspire to the Crown for the King with his Brothers removed it appertaineth to them a Kingdom being the Dowry often of a Wife of the blood Royal. The Kennedies and such who disliked the present Government take the occasion of the discontentment of the Nobility and the rumors of the people to shake the Kings minde towards the Governor and change the brawl of State To this end they give way to great and universal oppressions most of which were hatched and occasioned by themselves By these in a short time the Commons turn licentious and dissolute contemning all Government every man doing what seemed best in his own eyes and the Gentry divide in Factions Such who wont to live upon Rapine and Theft return to their wonted Trades honest men are spoiled of their goods the seditious and wicked are maintained and defended against all Laws and Justice by their Parties The State thus troubled and all order confounded by slie and crafty men who at first pretended great friendship and interest towards the Boyds the Kings affection towards them is assailed and resolutions tryed Many times having been plausibly listened unto at last pulling off their masks they lay imputations against them They remonstrate to him what great disparagement was between the King of Scotlands eldest Sister and the Son of the Lord Boyd that by this match he was robbed of one of the fairest jewels of his Crown the Boyds should not have appropriated that to themselves of wich they had only the keeping
she should have been reserved for some neighbor Prince by which Alliance the state of the Kingdom and the Person of the King might have been in great safety For if the King should chance to be infested by some insolent nobility the name and power of a neighbor Prince were sufficient to keep him safe on his Throne which by this match was endangered They suggested that the Boydes builded their estimation in the air of popular applause and endeavored to endear themselves in the opinion of the multitude A Prince is not a Lord of that people that loveth another better then him Should the Boydes be accused of peculate robbing the King and the commonTreasure the King might make a prey of their unlawful conquest and by their Attaindors reward the services of many of his necessitated friends it being acquired most height to which their riches was increased should be feared the faults of all the disorders of the Common wealth are laid upon the Boydes as the Authors of every breaking out sedition that they might the more securely possess the places neer the King At this time complaints from all parts of the Kingdom and by all sorts of persons incessantly being given unto him advance the intentions of their enemies and the Kings minde naturally inclined to fears and superstition being long tossed and perplexed began to turn away from the Boydes and with their power in some degrees brought lower and lessened Preambles of Ruine but he would go leasurely to produce this effect and make one change bring forth another The King increasing in yeers and youthful perturbations is councelled for the continuing of the Race and Succession and the keeping hiâ— Person without the common disorders of the world to think upon some match profitable for his country and honorable for himself He is courted by many and courteth others the Duke of Burgundy had offered him his daughter as to other Princes his friends and neighbors but his minde was not to have her married at all during his life-time Andrew Stewart Lord Evandale then Chancelour of the Kingdom with the Bishops of Glasgow and Orkenay being sent Embassadors to Christern King of Denmark for an accommodation and taking up some business concerning the Isles of Orkenay and Schythland 1468. the quarrel was taken away by a marriage to be celebrated between the King and Lady Margaret King Christerns daughter a Lady thought worthy of his bed in respect of the excellency of her beauty her royal descent and greatness of her birth All matters being agreed upon these Isles engaged for her Dowry there wanted onely an honorable retinue and convoy to bring home the Lady To this negotiation by the craft of some about the King and vanity of others who gloryed to see their friend promoted to such great honour Thomas Earle of Arran as a man flourishing in fame and riches and able to maintaine and discharge all magnificence is deputed as the fittest person Thus by the ambition and unattentiveness of his friends his worth was made the Scaffold of his ruine the lamentable condition of men of high desert In the beginning of the Harvest accompained with some young Noblemen and Gallants most of which were his select friends and well-wishers he ascendeth his ships Whilst as the King of Scotlands brother in law he is some moneths riotously entertained at the Danish Court the rigor of that Northern climate by the congealing of the Ocean moored up his ships and barred all return till the following Spring In this absence of a man so neer unto the King his Father and Uncle by age sickness and their private affaires not so frequently haunting the Court as they were accustomed the Kennedyes and they of the contrary faction having shaken the Kings affection and broken these bands his pleasures idlenese and vacancy from the publike affairs of the State by which the Boydes thought they had kept him sure move him now a litile delighting in action to proceed to the consideration of such matters as might be objected against the government of the Bodyes But that this might not appear to be an act of Faction but the universal consent of the Kingdom apart a Parliament was summoned to be holden in November at Edenburgh Here Robert Lord Boyd with his brother Sir Alexander are summoned to answer in Judgement to such points as should be exhibited against them At the appointed day the Lord Boyd appeared but accompanyed with such multitude of the common people and numbers of his friends vassals and followers all in arms with such ostentation and boasting that the King and Courtiers were well pleased to suffer them dissolve scatter of their own free wills At this insolency and malapertness yet to our own time an usual custome in Scotland the King conceived such indignation that he raised a strong guard to attend justice and his commandments and laid secretly Forces to assist these if the Boydes should oppose his laws by convocation of the Lieges The Lord Boyd after private intelligence of the Mines of the Court to blow him up rather amazed then in choler at the change of his Masters mind fled into England his brother Sir Alexander arested by sickness and relying upon his own integrity more then he ought to have done considering the malice of his enemies was brought before the Parliament his brother and he were challenged that upon the tenth of Iuly 1466. they laid hands upon the Kings Person and against his purpose brought him on the high way to the Castle of Calendar and that by their private power and consent contrary to the established order of the State and the other Regents advice they brought the King to Edenburgh when Sir Alexander sought to produce an act of Parliament for abolition or approbation of this deed as good service it was kept up and he being condemned had his head cut off Their other accusations contained the topical faults of Favourits that they had enriched themselves out of the Kings Treasure monopolized things belonging to the Crown diminished the Revenues thereof removed worthy men from the Counsel placing such in their rooms as had dependency from them Thomas Earle of Arran imployed in a publike charge by the kingdome absent unheard is declared Robel with his father and his moveables escheated to the King to his original faults was added that he dared marry the Kings sister without consent of the States the King being of non-age At the noise of this thunder clap Robert Lord Boyd left this world at Anwick No sooner had the Spring rendered the Baltick Seas Navigable when the Danish Lady with her Fleet Anchored in the Forth The Earle of Arran who was the Paranymphe and her convoy in that general gladness by the perswasions of some of his friends was preparing to come on shore and to submit himself to the Kings clemency but his Lady who had afar discerned his danger coming aboard disguised and giving him particular information of the
calamity of his house the weakness of his friends at Court and the many snares envy and malice had laid to surprise him he hoisted â—ails and with her who would be partaker of all his misfortunes returned to Denâ—mark from Denmark by Germany he came to King Lovys in France who interposed his requests to King Iames for his regress and restoring but the Letters in his favour producing no effects Charles Duke of Burgundy making war against his Rebel Subjects he was graciously received by him and entertained as his Ally his Lady remained at Antwerp where she bore him two children Iames and Gracile 1469. Lady Margaret the 10. of Iuly 1469. or after others 1470. maketh her entry into Edenburgh and scarce having attained the sixteen yeer of her age is married to King Iames in the Abby Church of Holy-rood house and in the moneth of November following by a convention of the three Estates was Crowned Queen The King in exorable in the behalf of the Earle of Arran and breathing his total Ruine sendeth Letters to Antwerp filled with promises and threatnings to move his sister to return to Scotland These at the first prevailed nothing with this Lady to make her forsake the husband of her youth many letters and from several friends and well-wishers in several fashions and stiles coming to her at last she was brought to believe her presence would mollifie the minde of her enemies and work her husband a re-establishment of his former favors with the King her brother and restore him to all his possessions and dignities Upon which hopes she comes to Scotland But these hopes proved all false for in stead of having access to her brother she is kept at Kilmarnock the chief house of the Boydes as in a free prison and her husband is summoned within threescore dayes to adhere to his wife under pain of Divorce the unfortunate Earle for fear of his head not appearing his marraige is declared null his wife is divorced from him and is constrained by her brother to marry Iames Lord Hamilton to whom also the Earledome of Arran was given for Dowry Not long after her two children to Earle Thomas Iames and Gracille are brought to Scotland who in the proceeding of time proved little more fortunate then their father for Iames was slain by Hugh Montgomry of Eglinton and Gracille though first marryed to the Earle of Cassiles and after to the Lord Forbess was barren Some have recorded that the Earle Thomas after this violent bereaving him of his wife dyed of displeasure at Antwerp and had a Tomb raâ—sed over him with an honorable Inscription by Charles Duke of Burgundy others who hate the Boydes tell he dyed not at Antwerp but at Florence and that he was killed by a Merchant of Florence out of jealousie of having abused his wife Queen Maragret the third yeer after her marriage in the month of March brought forth a son who was named Iames and Christern King of Denmark to congratulate the happy delivery of his daughter and of expectation of a continued succession to the Crown of Scotland of his Race released all the right title claim which he or his successors might have to the Isles of Orkenâ—y Scythland The King calleth after a Parliament at Edenburgh wherein though the Reformation of abuses as wearing of silk and other foraign triffles the building of Ships and enacting Laws for the present time were pretended a liberal Subside was the greatest aime His Exchequer being empty and many of his best friends turning necessitous and needy Iohn Lord of the Isles was attainted for his own and his Father misdemeanour the King raiseth forces to pursue him the Earle of Crawford being made Admiral the Earle of Athole the Kings Uncle Lieutenant of the Regiments by land such means in a short time was used by the Earle of Athole that the Lord of the Isles submitted himself to the Kings elemency and in a convention of the States at Edenburgh he resigned all the right he had to the Earledome of Ross the lands of Knap-den and Kintyre which the King annexed to the Crown Patrick Graham Arch-Bishop of Saint Andrews having at Rome understood the fall of the Boydes returneth to his own countrey where first amongst his friends and the most peaceable sort of the Clergy he divulgateth the Bull of the Pope for his supremacy over the other Churchmen of the Kingdome and his power of their tryal and promoting to benefices and after caused proclaim it at all publike places The laudable Elections anciently used about the Places and Offices of Churchmen by the corruption of the times being taken away and that Power altogether assumed by the King The Courtiers who were accustomed to sell Benefices and the Churchmen who were wont to buy them reject the Bull and set themselves against him by their traffick he is discharged to take the Place or Ornaments of an Archbishop or carry any other Cross or Cap then what the former Bishops used to have But here they set not up their rest William Schevez a man in those times admired for his skil in Astrology and promoted to be Arch-Dean of Saint Andrews seconded by Iohn Lock the Rector of that University a better Grammarian then Christian excommunicates this Archbishop for his presumption and that he sought to bear rule over his Brethren Bishops When this censure had passed upon him he is degraded and shut up in Prison William Schevez is after promoted to his place and consecrated upon the Passion Sunday in Lent at Holy-rood house the King being present he likewise receiveth the title and faculty of Legate and is confirmed Primate of the Realm notwithstanding the impediments objected to Patrick Graham by the Church-men concerning that same dignity and preheminencie So various and deceitful are the wayes of Men. The King being slow to action and more inclined to a solitary form of life then to travel and business his brothers being Princes of unquiet and restless Spirits to whom publike like imployments were recreations and withall being ambitious prodigal desirous of Rule and to be Governors of the people themselves and Kings in fact how ever their elder brother was in title they set themselves altogether to study novations and bring the King in contempt with his subjects and divert their minds and love towards him To this effect they had drawn by their towardness and familiarity many of the young Nobles and Gentlemen to follow them The King was obnoxious to some publike scandals for by his too great frugality care to increase his Treasure and study of purchasing by taxations sale of Church Benefices and too exact taking up of fines supervaluation of Wards he had gotten the Name of covetous and was not small distast amongst the Commons Edward King of England that the Scots by the instigation of the French should not trouble his new and scarce settled government imploying all his counsels and diligence to divide them amongst themselves
intelligence the Lords of Scotland who under the shadow of the publick good but really out of their disdain and particular interests conspired against the King send the Duke word the golden Age could not be fram'd nor Arms taken for the good of the Common-wealth nor the State alter'd without the frequestring of those from the King who misgovern'd him And these could not be remov'd by that power which was amongst themselvs without great danger and trouble considering the Kings faction and the malignant Party If King Edward would agree to the raising of an Army in England in favour of the Duke of Albanie and for restoring him to his Places and inheritance out of which he was most unjustly ejected and other pretences of which they should afford the occasions which no way should do harm to the Kingdom of Scotland disorder'd already and laid waste more by the license of a Tyrant in peace then it could have been by war and at this time bestow upon them favours as they might one day hereafter challenge to receive the like The Nobility of Scotland should be ready with an other Army not to fight but to seize upon the Kings Favourits and Misgovernors of the State for which the English should have many thanks That this Enterprize could not but prove most successfull the hatred of the Commons considered against such violent oppressions The King was fallen into so low esteem that assaulted by the English he would be constrain'd by the submission of his Crown to intreat for safety The Kâ—ng of England understanding this was to touch the finest string of State and Dominion for it is a matter of much consequence and main importance to defend the subjects of an other Prince for under this Mask and pretence of protecting the Liberties of a People of assistance and aid an usurpation and oppression of all liberty might be hidden and many have established and settled themselves in those Kingdoms which they came to relieve from tyranny and the oppression of their Rulers keeping by force what was granted to them at first by way of trust and under the colour of helping usurped a Soveraignty agreeth easily to what was demanded and resolved upon The Lords of the Association to play more covertly their Game and mask their intentions the Commons ever suffering and paying for the faults and errors of the great ones give way for the breaking loose of the Borderers Fierce incursions by the English are made upon Scotland and by the Scots upon England some Villages on either side are burnt The secrecy to this business which was inviolably observed was of great importance which is the principal knot and try of great affairs Rumours are spread that the Dukes of Gloucester and Albany with Iames late Earl of Dowglass and Alexander Ierdan and Patrick Halyburton men proscrib'd and upon whose heads a price was set were at Anwick with a powerful Army and in their march towards Kelsoo The King wakened out of his Trances by the Alarms of his Nobility and clamours of the people made proclamations to all between sixty years and sixteen to meet him at Edenburgh and to be in readiness to oppose their old enemies of England now come upon the Borders After many delayes and much loytering an Army is assembled by the Nobility which consisted of and a number of Câ—rts charged with small Ordinance New incursions being blazed to have been made by the English the King amidst these Troops marched to Lawder The Army was encamped and all things Ordered the best way the occasion could suffer them little or nothing being left to Fortune if the English should invade whom the Lords knew were not at all yet gathered and though gathered and in a Body and upon the Bordâ—rs or nearer would never invade them The King at this time is mâ—rvellously perplexed and become suspitious of the intentions of his Nobility in this Army in this confusion of thoughts fell upon two extremes In his 〈…〉 conversation too familiar and inward with his 〈…〉 Servants and favourites which rendred them 〈◊〉 believing the bare name of King to be sufficient whilst weakness and simplicity had made him despised and them hated and too retired reserved and estranged from his Nobilitie which made them malicious This he did as his pensiveness conjectured that his Nobles should not attempt any thing to the prejudice of his royal Authority independent of any Council But what he most feared came to pass he resolved and dispatched all matters by his Cabinet Counsel where the Surveyor of his Buildings was better acquainted with the affairs of the State than the gravest of his Nobility This preposterous course of favour made the great men of the Kingdom to fall headlong upon their rest though long projected attempt After many private conferences in their Pavilions the Chiefs of the Insurrection as the Earls of Anguss Lennox Huntley the Lords Gray Lile and others about midnight come together in the Church of Lawder with many Barons and Gentlemen Here every of them urging the necessity of the times and the dangers the Common-wealth was like to fall into requireth speedy resolutions and having before premeditated deliberated and concluded what to follow they draw up a League and confederation of mutual adherence in this order Forasmuch as the King suffereth himself to be governed by mean persons and men of no account to the contempt of the Nobility and his best Subjects and to the great loss of the Commons The confederates considering the imminent dangers of the Kingdom shall endeavour to separate the Kings Majestie from these naughty upstarts who abuse his Name and Authority and despise of all good men and have a care that the Common-wealth receive no dammage And in this quarrel they shall all stand mutually every one to the defence of another The design agreed upon and the confederacy sworn the chiefs of them in Arms enter the Kings Pavilion where after they had challenged him of many misorders in his Government contrary to his honour the Laws and good of his Kingdom they took Sir William Roger a man from a Musitian promoted to be a Knight Iames Homill Robert Cochran who of a Surveyor of his works was made Earl of Mar or as some mittigate that title Intromittor and taker up of the Rents of that Earldom by whose devise some Authors have alleged copper moneys had been coyned by which a dearth was brought amongst the Commons which as others have recorded was an unjust imputation for that copper money was coined in the Minority of the King in the time of the Government of the Boyds with others All these being convicted by the elamours of the Army were immediately hanged upon the Lidder Iohn Ramsey a youth of eighteen years of age by the intreaties Prayers embraces of the King was preserved Thus they the late objects of envy were turn'd and become the objects of Pity and Compassion The body of the Commons and the Gentry of
the Kingdome by this notorious act at Lawder being engaged and being made Partakers of the Quarrel of the discontented Noblemen and for their own safety tyed to second and assist all their intentions and to advance their ends The King is conveyed to Edenburgh and shortly after he either enclosed himself in the Maiden Castle as his lodging or which is more probable was there by the contrary faction committed as his Prison the Earl of Athole and some other Lords being appointed to attend him During this time the general humour of the kingdom being ripe for mischief Alexander Duke of Albany every thing falling right as it was plotted prevailed so with King Edward that the Duke of Gloucester the King of Englands Brother with the title of Lieutenant general for him set forwards toward Scotland The Army consisted of two and twenty thousand and five hundred In his retinue went of the Nobility Henry Earl of Northumberland Thomas Lord Stanley with them was the Duke of Albany The Earl of Dowglass came not being reserved for an after game The Duke of Albany having been before Commander of Berwick and a Man who was still in his absence beloved of that Garâ—ison diverted the Duke of Gloucester from Anwick where he had incamped in lune to assail the Town of Berwick By his intelligence they enter the Town without great opposition and it is given up to their discretion The Castle by the Lord Haills the Captain was made good against their assaults The Duke of Gloucester fore-seeing that this Siege would spend much time considering the uncertainty of events and being invited to march forward by the Lords of the association of Scotland committing the charge of assailiâ—â— the Castle to the Lord Stanley Sir Iohn Elrington and Sir Wâ—lliam â—arr with the body of the Army marched directly to 〈◊〉 The Countrey lay open to their invasion no Army taking the Field to oppose them they came in Scotland the twentieth day of August 1482. the Army encamped at Restlerig 〈◊〉 Duke himself entred the Town of Edenburgh which at the intreaty of the Duke of Albany who was his Harbinger he spar'd receiving such presents as the Citizens offer'd unto him His entry seeming rather a Triumph than hostile invasion The Kiâ—g being shut up from him and immured in the Castle the Duke by a publick writing at the Market Places gave out high Demands That King Iames should perform what he had covenanted with his Brother King Edward That he should give satisfaction for the damage done the English during the last inroads of the Borders which if he refused to accomplish He as Lievtenant to his Brother was to exact of him and take satisfaction of his Countrey denouncing him open war and proclaiming him all Hostility King Iames for saken of his People and wrong'd by his Lords laying aside his Passions and taking to him more moderate and discreet thoughts as a Man in Prison answered nothing to his Demands The Lords who by their Kings misfortune had reckoned their felicity having obtain'd what they chiefly desir'd to obviate the common and last danger the thraldom of their kingdom by these strangers whom they had drawn into the Country for the recovery of their Liberties assemble themselves together at Hadington with some Companies not to fight but to supplicate They sent the Lord Darnley and the elected Bishop of Murray to intreat a suspension of Arms and require a firm and lasting Peace for time to come The beginning of the war and taking of Arms was for the safety of this the neighbour Countrey of England miserably thral'd by a licentious Prince there was nothing more unworthy of a King or Republick than not to keep their promis'd Faith The English could have no colour for executing their indignation further upon this Countrey which already by the rapine of their own Men was impoverish'd and unmanu'd Only now to be recover'd by entertaining Peace with their Neighbours and amongst themselvâ—s They require that the Marriage contracted between the Prince of Rothesay and Lady Cicily King Edwards Daughter might be accomplish'd when it should please the King of England and the age of the two Princes might suffer it For any spoyl taken in these last incursions the interest consider'd upon both sides satisfaction should be given out of the publick contributions The Duke of Glocester as forgetting and seeming not to know the grounds of their coming into the Country and looking to nothing more then his own fame and Glory Answer'd his coming into Scotland was to right the honour of his Country so often violated and to restore the Duke of Albanie unjustly commanded to exile to his own native soyl and the dignity of his Birth as concerning the Mariage of the Prince of Scotland with the Daughter of England He knew not how his Brothers resolution stood at the present whereupon he requir'd repayment of the monies lent to their King upon the first agreement and withall a delivery of the Castle of Barwick up into his hands or if they could not make the Castle to be render'd they should give their oaths upon the holy Evangelists that they should neither assist the besieged nor harm the Besiegers till the Castle were either by force taken or upon fair conditions rendred The Lords having received this answer yielded freely to all the Conditions except they found themselves perplexed in the rendring of Berwick it being a Town of old appertaining to the Crown of Scotland though by force and violence the English had a long time kept it that did not take away their right and title After much contesting agreeing to the surrender of Berwick they desired that the walls of the Town should be demolished that it might not be a place of Tyrannie and incursion over their bordering Countreys No arguments could prevail against the Duke of Gloucesters resolutions and being stronger in power he persever'd in his demans and in â—ll likelihood this was agreeed upon between the Duke of Albany and the confederate Lords and the English before their entring Scotland Thus the Castle and Town of Berwick returned to the English the 24. of August 1482. after it had been delivered by Queen Margarite to gain Sanctuary for her Husband King Henry when expelled England and remained in the possession of the Scots twenty and one years They likewise appointed a day for restitution of all the moneys lent by King Edward and promised upon a full discussion to make satisfaction for all dammages done the English by any in-road of the Scottish Borders For the Duke of Albanies provision whose safety was principally pretended in this expedition a general pardon was promised for him and all â—is followers Together with an abolition of all discontents Whereby he had given unto him the Castle of Dumbar with the Earldoms of Mar and March he should be reinvested in all his former Dignities and Places and by consent of the Nobility of Scotland he was proclaim'd Lieutenant of the Kingdom
The Peaceproclaimed the Duke of Gloucester in all solemnity of greatness returned towards London being welcomed by the King with many demonstrations of great joy He to show how much he approved the conditions of this Peace went solemnly in procession from St. Stevens Chappel now the Parlament House accompanied with the Queen his Sister and a mighty retinue of the greatest Lords into Westminster Hall Where in presence of the Earl of Anguss the Lord Gray and Sir Iames Liddale Embassadours extraordinary from Scotland the peace was ratifyed At the return of the Scots Embassadours to their Countrey King Edward sent an Herauld with them who in his Masters name gave over the marriage contracted between the Lady Cicilia and the Prince of Rothsay and required the money which had been delivered upon hopes of consummation to his King The Citizens of Edenburgh had given their Bond for the redelivery and a day being granted to them for the payment they at the appointed day intirely delivered the sum Some thought King Edward recalled this marriage of a suspition he conceived that the Ambition of the Duke of Albany and the hatred of the Subjects against their King amidst the manifold distractions of the Realm might hazard the Succession of the Prince of Rothsay to the Crown But king Edward having gained what he had endeavoured most to acquire a division amongst the Nobles of Scotland and by this a Security from their assisting the French rejected the Match Besides the Duke of Gloucester who after his comming in Scotland was laying the foundations of the usurping the Crown of England his Brother once dead thought the alliance of his Brothers Daughter with a King of Scotland too strong a Support to that Race which he was to declare Bastards and a Rock upon which he was confident he should make a fearful shipwrack Neither his Brothers Daughter being marryed to a King of such martiall and turbulent Subjects as the people of Scotland durst he ever attempt the taking away of her Brothers and King Edward in neglect of this match committed a greater errour of State than he did in his marrying the Lady Elizabeth Gray and forsaking the Lady Bona Daughter to the Duke of Savoy According to the Records of some Authors whilst the King is kept nine Moneths in the Castle of Edinburgh the Duke of Albany the Lord Evandale Chancellour the Earl of Arguile the Archâ—bishop of St. Andrews the Earl of Athole his Uncle who for the preservation of his person and honour of his Office accepted the charge to attend him in that Fortress governed the State The King say the honest Records had all honour which appertained to a Prince save that he could not come abroad and none was permitted to speak unto him except in the audience of some one of his Lords Keepers and that his Chamber doors were shut before the setting of the Sun and long after the rising opened Proclamations are publisht in his name and Authority and other publick writings Such who only heard of him could not but take him to be a free and absolute Prince when near he was but a King in phantasie and his Throne but a Picture the regal Authority being turned into a cloak to cover the Passions of those who did govern The Duke of Albany dayly importuned by the solicitations Prayers and tears of the Queen a calm and temperate Lady for her Husbands Liberty finding himself not so respected by the other Governours as his birth and merits did deserve being a man who delighted in nothing more than in changes and novations of Court and State after so many scorns and rebukes offered to his Brother and King commiserating his long sufference and believing that good turns would make past offences be forgotten and recent benefits were sufficient to blot away old injuries withall remembrance of former discontents whilst the other Governours at Sterling securely passed the time posted in the night to Edenburgh Here a meeting being appointed of some of his friends and Vassals who knew nothing of his intentions by the assistance of the Citizens of Edenburgh men intirely loving their King and devoted to him all the time of the insurrection of his Nobles who gave the first assault yet was it rather their intelligence than force the Castle is surprised the King and all his Servants set at libertie This unexspected and noble act of the Duke of Albany having so fortunate a success brought a mighty change on the Court and State The King is now again reinstall'd and hath this residence in his own Palace to which many Noblemen and Gentlemen have frequent concourse rejoicing to see such evident tokens of love pass between the two Brothers if their affection could have continued The Provost and Baylies of Edinburgh in recompence of their service were made Sheriffs within all the bounds of their own Territories and rewarded with other privileges contained in that patent which they call their golden Charter 1482. The Lords of the contrary faction who remained at Sterlin by this new accident betook themselves to new thoughts and considerations every man full of fears and repinings flying to his own dwelling place and conceaving a great hatred against the Duke of Albany They said he was inconstant rash mad in setting at liberty the man who would prove his Executioner and one who would never forget any profer'd injury that if he perished before them it was but his own just deserving and procurement The Duke contemning those reproaches and answering their calumnies and evil words with patience and good deeds by the mediation of the Earl of Anguss Studied a reconciliation between the King and his discontented Lords And his endeavours had such good success that in a short time after this Atonement some of them turned so familiar and inward with the King that like the Ivy they began to sap the wall by which they had been supported They made the wound of the Kings old jealousies ranckle again and added poison to former discontents remembring him of the unnaturalness of his Brothers first Rebellion and assuring him that his antient Ambition had yet more power of him than his new fears of honesty and respect That howsoever he shewed outwardly the arguments of a reconciled Brother he loved yet to govern and aimed at the Crown That he had wrought his liberty to bring a greater confusion in the State than he had ever done before The King who ever had a watchful eye over his reconciled Enemies and who desired to be freed and fairly quited of them all gave way to their calumnies And they after long deliberation resolve upon a plot to bring the Duke within compass of law and summoned him to answer upon Treason And this was the rendring of the Town of Berwick to the English which they undertook to prove was only by his intelligence procuration and being in company with the Duke of Gloucester in that expedition Though the Duke had an absolute and general pardon
demeanour that he yet meditated Revenge and had begun to invadea nd shake the ancient privileges of the Humes more out of Spight and discontent against them for having assisted and follow'd the Lords of the Reformation of the State than any intention of the increasing the Rents of his new erected Chappel That ere long he would be avengedupon all whom he either knew were accessary or suspected to have been upon the Plot of Lawder Bridg or his committing in the Castle of Edenbrough That it was some time better to commit a fault unpardonable than venture under the Pardon That the King had taken a Resolution to live upon the Peoples contributions and give his owne Revenues to particular Men. The faults of his Counsellours are highly exaggerated They were base Persons and he himself given to dissimulation misdevotion and revenge as occasion served he would remember old wrongs It was good to obey a King but not to lay the head upon a Block to him if a Man could save himself After along smother of discontent and hatred of the Nobility and People rankor breaking dayly forth into Seditions and alterations The Lord Hume and Haylles being the Ring-Leaders many Noblemen and Gentlemen under fained pretences especially the courses of swift Horles keep frequent meetings Where they renew their Covenant agreed upon at Lawder Church the necessity of the times and the danger of the Common-wealth requiring it and gave their oaths that at what time soever the King should chalenge them directly or indirectly or wrong them in their Rights Possessions Places Persons They should abide together as if they were all one Body marry each others quarrells and the wrongs done to any one of them should be done to them all When the King understood the conâ—ederacy of the Lords to anticipate the Danger he made choyse of a Guard for the preservation of his Person and Servants Of which he made Iohn Ramsay of Balmayne a Man whom he had preserved at Lawder and advanced to be Maister of his houshold at Court Captain giving him a warrant not to suffer any Man in Arms approach the Court by some miles This in stead of cooling exasperated the Choler of the Male-contents and stirr'd them to assemble with numerous Retinues all in Arms. The King scarce beleeving the Mindes of so many were corrupted and perswading himself the Authority of the publick name of a King would supply the want of some Power summond certain of them upon fourty days to answer according to Law Of those some rent his Summons and beat shamefully his Heraulds and Messengers for discharging their Offices Others appeared but with numbers of their Adherents Friends Allies and Vassals And here he found that the faults of great Delinquents are not without great danger taken notice of and reprehended he used some Stratagems to surprise the Heads and chiefs of their faction But unadvisedly giving trust to the promises of those who lent their ears but not their hearts to his words his designs were discovered before they produced any effect his secrets all laid open to his great hatred and disadvantage the discoverers taking themselves to the factious Rebells and cherishing unkind thoughts in all whom they saw distasted with his Government Perceiving himself betrayed and his intentions divulged he remained in great doubt to whom he should give credit The nature and manner of all things changed by the League of the Confederates he thought it high time to remove a little further from that Torrent which might have overwhelmed him and made them Masters of his person To temporize and win time caused furnish the Castles of Edenburgh and Sterling with provision of Victual Ammunition and Garrisons to defend them from the dangers of war he resolved to make his aboad beyond the River of Forth and to leave the â—outh Parts of the Kingdom After which deliberation he entred a Ship of Sir Andrew Wood a famous Navigator and stout Commander at Sea which pretended to make sail for the low Countreys and was lying at Anchor in the Forth These who saw him aboard spread a rumour that he was flying to Flanders The Lords of the insurrection making use of this false report seised on his carriage in the Passages towards the North rifled his Coffers spoiled his Servants of their stuff and baggage And then after certainty that he was but landed in Fyfe and from that was in progress to the Northern parts preparing and directing his good Subjects to be in readiness to attend him at his return they surprised the Castle of Dumbar The Moneys found in his Coffers wage Souldiers against him and the Harness and Weapons of his Magazines arm them Having gathered some companies together tumultuously they overrun the Countreys upon the South of the Forth riffling and plundering all men who went not with them or whom they suspected not to favour their desperate and seditious ends In his progres the King held Justice Courts at Aberdeen and Inneress where William Lord Creighton not long before impeacht with the Duke of Albany submitted himself to his Clemency and was received in favour and pardoned after which grace he shortly left this world Whilst the King in the North the Lords in the South are making their preparations When they were assembled at Lithgow they find themselves many in number and strong in power the success of their proceedings being above their hopes there only wanted a Man eminently in esteem with the people and noble of Birth to give lustreto their Actions shadow their Rebellion and be the titular and painted head of their Arms. When they had long deliberared upon this great Man they assented all that there was none to be paralleld to the Prince of Rothsay the Kings own Son So strongly providence befools all human wisdom and foresight his keepers being corrupted by gifts pensions and promises of divers Rewards he is delivered into their hands and by threats that they would otherwaies give up the Kingdom to the King of England he is constrained to go with them To heighten the hatred against the King and the closlier to deceive the people for the love of subjects is such towards their natural Kings that except they be first deceived by some pretence and notable sophism they will not arise altogether in arms and rebel they make proclamations and by their Deputies by way of Remonstrances spread abroad seditious Papers in what a Sea of blood would these men launch into that all true Subjects should come in defence of the Prince and take arms because his Fathers jealousies and superstitious fears were risen to that height that nothing but his Sons death or imprisonment could temperate them That he was raising an Army to take his Son out of their hands that he might do with him as he had done with his own Brothers That force was the onely means to work his safety and keep the Plotters of this mischief within bounds they also should take arms to reduce the
Castello an Italian Legate was comming and the Lords fearing the danger of it for in those times it might have drawn the most part of all the Towns and the Commons for fear of Ecclesiastical Censures to have adhered to the King or stood in an indifferency made all possible haste before it should have been delivered to make head against their Soveraign and decide their quarrel in a battel Vraban the fourth armed Henry the third King of England against all those that would not return to their due and old obedience to him and all his disloyal subjucts The King was in a strong Fort and if he had remained still there matters in a little time had faln forth more to his wishes and his Enemies might have been brought to a submission for his good Subjects of the North as the Forbesses Oguilbuyes the Graunts Frazeres Meldrums many of the Gordounes Keethes and others who adhered to him out of affection and duty were advancing towards him But whether misinformed or betrayed by some his own who made him believe that unless he could command the Countrey about Edenburgh the Castle was of no such importance as was the Castle of Sterlin for him in consideration of the passage over the River of Forth at a Bridge for those were coming to his aid The Lords of the association counterfeiting a Retreit and dispersing themselves in the Countrey that they might draw him from that bold he rashly and unadvisedly issued out of the Castle and left his beloved Town of Edenburgh The Earls of Montross Glencarn Lords Maxwell and Ruthen accompanyed him to the Blackness his Forces here encreasing he marched towards Sterlin the Rendevous and destinated Place of meeting for all his loyal Subjects there he displayed his Royal Standard Here the perfidious Constable an unparralleld example of ingratitude who had betrayed the Son in an hostile manner kept the Father out of his own Castle Cannons mounted Pistols cockt and leveld at him and exposed him a prey to his Robels In the amazement and deliberation what to go about being thus shut out of his Castle Tidings came to him that the Confederates were come neer to Falkirk a little Town six miles eastward from Sterlin that his Army should not be discouraged by this unexspected accident trusting to his right and present Power being more stout than prudent he resolveth to set all upon the hazard of a Battel The Confederates had passed the Carron a River under the Falkirk and were encamped above the Bridge neer the Torwood The King set forwards with his Army upon the other side of the Torwood neer a smal brook named Sawchy-Burn This field is a plain not far distant from that Bannoch-burn where King Robert the Bruce overthrew the great Army of Edward Carnarvan Here both Armies advance forward in Battail array The Lords rang'd their Host in three Squadrons the vantguard was led by the Lords Hume and Hailles and their friends consisting of east Lothian and Marss-men The middle ward was composed of the Liddesdale Annandale Ewesdale Tivotdale Twededale Galloway-Men the mayne battail was of west Lothian-men where most of the Lords were and amongst whom the Prince was kept In the Kings Army the Earle of Monteeth Lords Aresken Graham Ruthen Maxwell commanded the vanguard The left wing which consisted of Westland and Highland men was commited to the Earle of Glencarn The Lords Boyd Lyndesay the Earl of Crawfoord commanded in the Reer or great Battaill amongst whom was the King armd from head to foot upon a great Coursier easie to be known and discern'd from the rest The first charge is valiantly given and Launce meeting with Launce the vanguard of the Lords began to yield ground and was strongly repulsed But the next charge being given by Annandale Men and the ranck Riders of the Borders The middle ward of the Kings Army is beaten back to the mayn Battaill Notwithstanding of which it is fought a while with marvellous obstination and great hardiness and assurance untill the standard Royal was beaten downe and those who defended it were slain the violence of the bickering being mostly where it was planted The Kings army now beginning to bow nor being sufficient to resist the numbers of fresh assailers the Horsemen obeying no direction turned their backs In this rowt and confusion of horse and foot men the King seeking to retire towards the River of Forth where not far off som Boats and the Ships of Sir Andrew Wood attented the fortune of Battail by the fall of his Horse in leaping a Ditch being sore bruised was carryed by such who knew him not to a Mill at Bannoch-Burn The day was now the Confederates and wrong had prevailed against Right when the Prince of Rothsay amazed at the noise and clamours of the flying and following Souldiers and in suspition of the worst gave out express and strait Commandement with threatnings to the Disobeyers that none should presume to pursue his Father nor others in the chase Notwithstanding which he was followed and killed in a Mill in cold bloud These who followed him were the Lord Gray Robert Sterlin of Keer Sir Andrew Borthick a Priest whom fame reporteth after shiriving to have stobb'd him with a Dagger The Ensigns taken the Army dissipated and put to flight the Baggage rifled the Death of the King being rumoured through the Armies the Victors turned slow in the chase and gave field-room to all that would fly no severity being used against any found unarmd for the Lords of the association pursu'd the King not the people The discomfitted fled towards Sterlin the victorious retir'd to their Camp and the next morning to Linlithgow On the Kings side Alexander Cunningham Earl of Glencarn was slain and as some have recorded the Lords Aerskin Simple Ruthen Iohn Ramsay of Balmayn created Earl of Bothwell and his chief favourite with their friends and Vassals the Lard of Inneys Alexander Scot Director of the Chancery with some Noblemens Friends and Vassals many were hurt who recovered of their woundes and this Battail seem'd rather a brave encounter and meeting of Launces in some lists than a Field of great deeds of arms and the victory was obtained rather by disorder and the rashness of the vanquished than by the valour of the victorious This battel was fought the year 1488. the eleventh day of Iune which is the festival of St. Barnabas the 29. year of the Reign and thirty five of the age of this King He had issue Iames the fourth who succeeded Alexander Arch-bishop of St. Andrews and Iohn Earl of Marr The Conspirators with all funeral Rites and and Royal Pomp as in expiation of the wrongs they had done him living neer his Queen in the Abby Church of Cambuskynneht buryed his body This King concerning his personage was of a Stature somwhat higher than ordinary well proportioned his hair was black his visage was rather long then round approaching in colour more to those in the Southern than Northern
overshadow and cover this mischief the horrour of this fact possest this Prince to his last hour and God out of his Justice executed the revenge of this cruelty upon the Nobles Commons and the Prince himself at the field of Flowden where some of the chief Actors of this paricide were in their own persons others in the persons of their Successors sacrificed to the Ghost of this King Iames IIII King of Scotts Anō 1488 THE HISTORY OF THE LIFE REIGN OF Iames the fourth King of Scotland THe Lords who had chosen rather to be reputed famous Rebells than contemn'd Subjects by their boldness of enterprizing skill of managing the publick affairs and continued purchases swelling to that greatness of power that they found none to counterpoise few to oppose to their Designs To make their Rebellion lawful and show the world they intended not the subversion of their Countrey but of their opinionative King nor that they did dislike Soveraignity so they might have a Prince who would be ruled by their directions take the name and leave to them the Majesty and Authority of his Place after the killing of the Father call a Parliament for the installing of the Son in the Royall Throne few of the three Estates here meeting except themselves and the Commissioners of Burroughs in the Moneth of Iune the year 1488. at Edenburgh the Prince is crowned then having not attained the sixteenth year of his age Though these men had assumed the Government yet in divers parts of the Countrey they had bur doubtful obedience nor was their Authority universally acknowledged the flames of dissention seeming yet neither to be extinquished nor altogether smothered with the life of the late King On the Sea Sir Andrew Wood who had attended the event of the last Battel maintained resolutely the Quarrel of his dead Master Five tall Ships sent by the King of England to his Confederates aid but which came too late pretending a Revenge upon his disloyal Subjects pillaged the maritime Towns and forraged the adjacent parts of the Countrey shut up the mouth of the River of Forth and interrupted the Commerce of Merchants To repel which violence the Ships gathered by the Lords struggled in vain being every way inferiour and weak to supprels their incursions and Algarads On the land the Forces of those who had stood out for the late King had rather been by the last conflict scatter'd than throughly broken and brought under The ablest and most convenient companies which were gatherd to his assistance having never assembled and joind in one body the fight being inconsideratly precipitated and the Dye thrown before they could descend from the far Mountains and cross the Foord-less Rivers And of those who were in the Fray not many being taken prisoners fewer killed falling under the weight of friendly arms The prime Men of those who had chosen rather justly to follow the King than profitably his Rebells finding themselves for their loyaltie and that good will which they had carryed to their Soveraign persecuted and proscrib'd in their Fortunes and Persons inflamed with indignation and shame resolve to oppose wisdom to Fortune courage to strength and hazard some one day more for the repairing the losses of former the Pillage begun upon the Seas by the English animating them And being desirous to make as many fellows of their danger as they could they send Letters thorough all the Quarters of the Kingdom to their Friends Familiars and Confederates encouraging them to ply the business generously opposing their valour and courage to the strength and power of the abusers of the Prince By publick writings they cast aspersions on the present Government After that battail of Sterlin and since the Coronation of the King they had not fallen in the power of a Monarch but under an Olygarchy the most depraved form of all Governments the name and Title of a King a young man searce sixteen years of age enjoyed but he governed not but was by the Killers of his Father misgoverned who under false pretences intended the ruin of the State What reproach and shame would it be not onely with all men now living but also with Posterity to suffer these who had hazarded what they had dearest for the honour and preservation of their Prince to be branded with the name of Traytors be banished and followed to death Whilst the Transgressors and Abusers of all Laws divine and humane sit Judges over them as Revengers of general wrongs usurping the Titles of Deliverers of the Countrey and Restaurers of the Common-wealth amongst whose pawes the present King could not be assured and safe They being the men who to justifie their injustice and make their fact meritorious brought him in Arms not knowing whither against his King and Father most wofully taken away besides the abusing of his Name and Authority in every civil matter The late King had lost the day and himself by his own errours not by their power and designs Now they should oppose to their proceedings though they might be esteemed inferiour in number to them yet if they met together they might be found equal to them in worth and courage being puft up by the last misfortune and only putting their confidence in that they mastered their Designs Much being projected and designed for their meeting in arms in the North Alexander Lord Forbes a Man born neither to rest himself nor suffer others in Aberdeen and other Towns on the point of a Launce displayed the shirt of the slaughtered King purpled with his bloud inviting the Countrey as by an Herauld to the revenge of his Murther In the West the Earl of Lennox a man eminent by his Birth and Fortunes hath the same resolution the Earl of Marshall Lords Gordon and Lyle with their confederates in other parts of the Kingdom where their power or eloquence could prevail move all their Engins to advance the enterprize and put every thing in readiness The Lords of the insurrection having the young King in their hands to countenance their proceedings joining discretion to their good succes determine except upon necessity not to spill more civil blood And to disperse the clouds of that appearing storm they encourage Sir Andrew Wood now received in favour and brought not onely to be no enemy but to be their friend and fellow-helper having obtained from them the Barony of Largow disposed to him hereditarily of which before he had only a lease of the late King for his first service with his Ships to clear the Forth and scoure the 〈◊〉 of the English And they launch out to his assistance the Vessels and Boats of the Havens neer adjacent At that same time Iohn Lord Drummond stuart of Strathern a Nobleman couragious and adventurous is directed to wait upon the Earl of Lennox stopt his ravaging and wasting the Countrey and kept him back from joining with his Confederates of the North and infesting the more civil parts being the greatest ablest and
gentle disposition and mild nature and confidence in his generosity or of the trust they had in their own power and Faction they bewrayed no signs of fear nor attempted ought against the common peace and tranquility some records bear that they forewarned him by the example of his Father not to take any violent course against them or which might irritate the people against him and every thing to embrace their counsels and that finding him repining and stubborn beyond mediocrity giving himself over to Sorrow and pensiveness they thâ—eaâ—ned him with a Coronation of one of his Brothers telling him it was in their power to make any of the race of his 〈◊〉 their King if he were Head-strong and refractory to oppose to their wholsom directions and grave Counsâ—ls Amidst this Grief of the King and overweening of his supercilions Governours Andrew Forman Secretary to Alexander the sixth Bishop of Rome arrived in Scotland with instrutions for the Clergy and Letters from his Master to the King and the Nobles The Kings were full of ordinary consolations to asswage his passions and reduce his mind to a more calm temper for the accident of his Fathers death The most glorious victory a Prince could acquire was sometimes to overcome himself and triumph over his disordered passions In all perturbations to which we are subject we should endeavour to practise that precept No thing too much but chiefly in our passions of sorrow and wrath which not being restrained overwhelm the greatest and most generous Minds that by passion the fewest actions and by reason the most do prosper Though a King he must not imagine himself exempt from things casual to all mankind especially in Seditions and civil tumults from which no kingdom nor State hath been free There being no City which hath not sometimes wicked Citezens and alwaies and ever an headstrong and mad multitude he should take what had befaln him from the hand of his Maker who chastiseth those he loveth What comes from heaven be should bear necessarily what proceedeth from Men couragiously there was no man so safe excellent and transcendent who by an insolent Nobility and ravaging Populacy might not be compell'd to perpetrate many things against his heart and intentions The will being both the beginning and subject of all sin and the consenting to and allowing the action being the only and main point to be considered and look into of which he was free the sin committed was not his nor could the punishment which by the divine Iustice might follow belong unto him Sith he had done nothing of himself but as a bound man had been carryed away by mutinous Subjects these that lead transgress not alwaies they that follow To these men remorse and torture of conscience belong'd it was they should lament and mourn who under false pretences had abused the people maskt their Ambition and malice with a reformation of errours in the State whose rage could not be quencht but by the bloud of ther Soveraign It was these should bewail their in justice and cruelty the sin shame and judgement for so hainous a fact followed these men He should not impute the wrongs and wickedness of others by which he had been a sufferer with his disastered Father to himself Revenge belonged to the Almighty to whose Tribunal he should submit his quarrel He should not decree the worst against his mutinous Subjects nor turn them desperate as if there were no place to repent Great offenccs ordinarily were seldom punisht in a State that it was proâ—itable for a Prince sometime to put up voluntarily an injury the way to be invincible was never to contend and to stand out of danger was the benefit of peace that he should apply soft Medicine where it was dangerous to use violent That following his Maker he should endeavour to draw Good out of evil As he was for that disaster of his Father pittyed by Men upon Earth so assuredly he would be pardoned in Heaven If his Subjects returned to their crooked Byas and did revolt again he would make the danger his own use his Ecclestastical censures and spiritual power against thâ—m till they became obedient and submitted themselves to the sway of his Scepter In the Letters to the Nobles he exhorted them to obedience Ambition was the cause of Sedition which had no limits and which was the bane and wrack of States Kingdoms of which they should beware of Kingdoms subsisting upon the reputation of a Prince and that respect his Subjects carryed towards him He was the Eye and Sun of Iustice the Prince weakned or taken away or his authority contemned the Common-wealth would not only fall into a Decadence but suffer an Earth-quake and perish Either after by Forrainers be invaded or by intestine dissentions rent asunder Confusions followed where obedience ceased and left Contempt deposed Kings as well as death and Kings are no longer Kings when their Subjects refuse to obey them That good people made good Kings which he requested them to endeavour to be as they would answer to God whose Lientenants Princes were and by whose power they ruled After this time the Lord Evaindale being dead the Earl of Anguss was made Chancelour and the Lord Hume obtained the place of great Chamberlain of Scotland the Countrey enjoyed a great calm of peace the grounds of dissention seeming to be taken away The King in the strength and vigour of his Youth remembring that to live in Idleness was to live to be contemned by the world by change of Objects to expell his present sadness and to enable himself for wars when they should burst forth gave himself to recreations by Games and with a decent Pomp entertained all Knightly exercies keeping an open and magnificent Court When time and Exercise had enabled him and he thought he had attained to some perfection in marital Sports Tilting and Barriers proclaimed Rewards propounded and promised to the Victors Challenges are sent abroad unto Strangers either to be Umpiers or Actors of Feats of Arms. Charles the eight the French King having an Ambition to reannex the Dutchy of French Bretaign to the Crown of France either by arms or the Marriage of Anne the apparent heir under the pretext and shadow of those painted Justings sendeth to Scotland some of the bravest Gentlemen of his Court desiring privily the assistance of King Iames against the English if it should fall forth that the King of England troubled his Designs Not long after well and honorably accompanied arriveth in Scotland a young man naming himself Richard Duke of York son to Edward the fourth true Inheritour of the Crown of England divers Neighbor Princes testifying the same by the Letters which contained That Edward the eldest son of Edward the fourth who succeeded his Father in the Crown by the Name of Edward the fifth was murthered by Richard Duke of Gloucester their unnatural Vncle but Richard the younger Son his Brother by the Man who was employed to
Prince who had recourse unto him for aid and Supply and was now allyed with the antient blood of the Countrey Much being said at last they conclude upon a truce for some moneths following After this treaty of Peace the Counterfeit Duke of York with his Lady and such Followers as would not leave him sailed over into Ireland This Truce happily concluded and continued by a trifling and untoward accident went neer to have been given up and broken There were certain Scottish young men came into Norham Town and having little to do went sometimes forth and would stand looking upon the Castle Some of the Garrison of the Castle observing them and having not their Minds purged of the late ill-humour of Hostility either suspected them or quarrel'd with them as spyes whereupon they fell at ill words and from words to blows so that many were wounded of either side and the Scots being strangers in the Town had the worst Insomuch that some of them were slain and the rest made hast home The matter being complained on and often debated before the Wardens of the Marshes of both sides and no good order taken King Iames took it to himself and sent Marchmond Herauld to the King of England to make protestation That if reparation were not done according to the Conditions of the Truce his King did denounce war The King of England who had often tryed fortune and was enclined to Peace made answer That what had been done was utterly against his will and without his privity But if the Garrison Souldiers had been in fault he would see them punished and the Truce in all points to be preserved This answer pleased not King Iames. Bishop Fox understanding his discontent being troubled that the occasion of breaking the Truce should grow from his men sent many humble and deprecatory Letters to the King of Scotland to appease him Whereupon King Iames molified by the Bishops submiss and discreet Letters wrote back again unto him That though he were in part moved by his Letters yet he should not be fully satisfyed except he spake with himself as well about the compounding of the present difference as about other matters that might concern the good of both kingdoms The Bishop advising first with his Master took his journey to Scotland the meeting was at the Abby of Melrose where the King then abode The King first roundly uttered unto the Bishop his offence conceived for the breach of the Truce by his Men at Norham Castle after speaking with him a part he told him That these temporarie Truces and Peace were soon made and soon broken but that he desired a straiter Amity with the King of England discovering his Mind that if the King would give him in Marriage the Lady Margarite his eldest Daughter That indeed might be a knot indissolvable That he knew well what Place and Power the Bishop deservedly had with his Master therefore if he would take the business to heart and deal in it effectually he doubted not but it would well succeed The Bishop answered soberly That he thought himself rather happy than worthy to be an instrument in such a matter but would do his best endeavour Wherefore the Bishop of Durhâ—m returning from Scotland to his King at London and giving count what had pasâ—ed and finding his King more than well disposed in it gave the King first advice to proceed to a conclusion of Peace and then go on with the Treaty of Marriage by degrees hereupon a Peace was concluded to continue for both the Kings lives and to the overliver of them one year after In this Peace there was an Article contained That no English man should enter into Scotland nor no Scotch man into England without Letters Commendatory from the king of either Nations During this Treaty of the Marriage it is reported that the King of England referred this matter to his Council and that some of the Table in freedom of Counsellours the King being present had put the case That Issues Males and Females failing of the race of his two Sons that then the Kingdome of England would fall to the King of Scotland which might prejudice the Monarchy of England Whereunto the King himself replyed That if any such event should be Scotland would be but an accession to England and not England to Scotland for that the greater would draw the less and that it was a safer union for England than that of France Shortly after the espousals of Iames King of Scotland with Lady Margarite the King of Englands eldest Daughter followed which were done by Proxie in all solemn manner The Assurance and contract was published at Pauls Cross the 25. of Ianuary at London in applause of which Hymns were publickly sung in the Churches and Bonfires with great feasting and banqueting set throughout all the City Iulius the second in the beginning of this Treaty did gratifie King Iames with a Sword and Diadem wrought with flowers of Gold which the Popes on Christmass even used to consecrate a custome first brought in by Sixtus Quartus which were presented to him at Holy-Rood-House the marriage was in August following consummate at Edenbrough King Henry bringing his Daughter as far as Colliveston on the way where his Mother the Countess of Richmond aboade and then resigning her to the attendance of the Earl of Northumberland who with a great Train of Lords and Ladies of Honour brought her into Scotland to the King her Husband solemn daies were kept at Court for banquetting Masks and Revelling Barriers and Tilting proclaimed Challenges were given out in the Name of the Savage Knight who was the King himself Rewards designed to the Victors Old King Arthur with his Knights of the Round-Table were here brought upon the Lists The fame of this Mariage had drawn many Forreign Gentlemen to the Court. Amongst others came Monsieur Darcie naming himself Le Sieur de la Beautie who tryed Barriers with the Lord Hamilton after they had tilted with grinding Spears Some of the Savage Knights Company who were robust high-land men he giving way unto them smarted really in these feigned Conflicts with Targets and two-handed Swords to the Musick of their Bagpipes fighting as in a true battel to the admiration of the English and French who had never seen men so ambitious of wounds and prodigal of blood in sport All were magnificently entertain'd by the King and with honourable Largesses and Rewards of their Valour licensed to return Home During the Treaty of this Marriage with England a Monster of a new and strange shape was born in Scotland near the City of Glasgow the body of which under the waste or middle varied nothing from the common shape and proportion of the bodies of other men the members both for use and comliness being two their faces looking one way sitting they seemed two men to such who saw not the parts beneath and standing it could not be discerned to which of the two Bulks above the
and unto whom victory appertained Many brave Scots did here fall esteemed to above five thousand of the noblest and worthiest Families of the kingdom who choosed rather to dy than out-live their friends and Compatriots The Kings natural Son Alexander Arch-Bishop of St. Andrews the Bishop of the Isles the Abbots of Inchjefray and Kill Winny The Earls of Crawfoord Mortoun Arguyl Lennox Arrel Catâ—ness Bothwel Athol the Lords Elphinstoun Aerskin Forbes Ross Lovet Saintclare Maxwell with his three Brothers Simple Borthick Numbers of Gentlemen Balgowny Blacka-Towre Borchard Sir Alexander Seatoun Makenny with Macklean George Master of Anguss and Sir William Dowglass of Glenbervy with some two hundred Gentlemen of their name and Vassals were here slain The English left few less upon the place but most part of them being of the common sort of Souldiers and men of no great mark compared with so many Nobles killed and a King lost the number was not esteemed nor the loss thought any thing of The Companies of the Lord Hume had reserved themselvs all the time of the fight keeping their first order and when by the Earl of Huntley he was required to relieve the Battallion where the King fought he is said to have answered That that man did well that day who stood and saved himself After the retreat his Followers gathered a great bootie of the spoils of the slaughtered This fight began Sept. 9. about four of the clock after Noon and continued three houres the year 1513. About the dawning of the next Morning the Lord Daâ—res vvith his Horse-Troops taking a view of the Field and seeing the brazen Ordnance of the Scots not transported with most part of the faln bodies not rifled sendeth speedy advertisement to the Howards and the pensive Army inviting all to the setting up of Trophees Spoil and transporting of their great Ordnance to Berwick amongst which were seven Culverins of like size and making called the Seven Sisters Divers diversly report of the Fortune of the King We without affirming any thing for certain shall onely set down what Fame hath published a false Witness often of human accidents and which many times by malignant brains is forged and by more malignant ears received and believed The English hold that he was killed in this Battail the Scots that many in like Arms with the like Guards were killed every one of which was held for the King Amongst others Alexander Lord Elphinstoun his Favourite who had marryed Elizabeth Barley one of the Dames of Honour of Queen Margarite He was a man not unlike to the King in face and stature and representing him in arms in the field with the valiantest and most couragious of the Army fought it out and acting heroically his part as a King was killed heaps of slaughtered bodies environing his In the search where the fight was the number taleness furniture of the dead bodies being observed their faces and wounds viewed his body as if it breathed yet majesty was amidst the others selected acknowledged for his Maisters brought to Berwick and embalmed That it was not the body of the King the girdle of Iron which heever wore and then was not found about him gave some though not certain testimony Some have recorded that the fortune of the day inclining to the English four tall men mounted upon lusty Horses wearing upon the points of their Launces for coignoscances Streamers of Straw mounting the King on a Sorrel Hackney convoyed him far from the place of fight and that he was seen beyond the Tweed between Kâ—lso and Dunce After which what became of him was uncertain Many hold he was killed in the Castle of Hume either by the intelligence between the English and the Lord Humes kinred or out of fear for they were at the slaughter of the Kings Father and the most violent in that fight or of hopes of great fortunes which would follow innovations and the confusion of the State being men who liv'd best in a troubl'd Common wealth and upon the Borders One Carra follower of the Lord Humes that same night the Battail was fought thrust the Abbot of Kelso out of his Abbacy which he never durst attempt the King being alive Another David carbreath in the time of Iohn the Governour vaunted that however Iohn wronged the Humes he was one of fix who had abated the insolency of King Iames and brought him to know he was a Mortal To these is added that the Governour Iohn not long hereafter cut off the heads of the Lord Hume and his Brother without any known great cause The Common people ever more addicted to superstition than verity believed he was living and had passed over the Seas and according to his promise visited the holy Sepulchre in Palestine Therefor his other offences and the bearing of Arms against his Father in prayers and Pennance he spent the remainder of His tedious daies That he would return again when he found opportunity and the necessity of Europe requird him This report was of as great truth as that which the Burgundians have of the Return of their Duke Charles after the Battle of Nancy most of them believing he escaped from the conflict He was lost the twenty and five year of his Reign the thirty and ninth of his age the ninth of September 1513. This King was of a vigorous body his stature being neither too tall nor too low of a pleasant countenance of a pregnant wit but by the faults of the times in which he lived not polished with Letters He excelled in horse-manship fencing and shooting By much watching slender diet and use he was enabled to enduâ—e all extremities of weather scarcity or want of rest with good health of body He was just in giving judgement in punishing malefactors severe yet tractable and moderate With the peril of some few he restrained vices and rather shook the Sword than struck with it He knew there were some things though Princes might yet they ought not to do He was easie of access most courteous in speech and meek in answering every man He was so far from being over taken with anger or other violent perturbations that he was never observed to have given an evil or disobliging word to any or that the colour of his face changed by any offence offered him or informations given him relying without passion upon his own magnanimity He was of a free and liberal disposition far from any ostentation As he understood well the Art of giving so to acquire and purchase he was not sufficient of himself but made use of men who drew more hatred upon their own heads than moneys into their Princes coffers Though he delighted more in War than the Arts he was a great admirer and advancer of learned men William Elphinstoun Bishop of Aberdeen builded by his Liberality the College of Aberdeen and named it The Kings College by reason of those Privileges and Rents the King bestowed upon it His Generosity did shew it self in not
claim made by Alexander Stuart the elder brother of the Governour who was begotten on a Daughter of the Earl of Orkenay to whom the Duke of Albany their Father had been lawfully joined in marriage before his coming to France and thus before the marrying of the Earl of Bulloignes daughter the Mother of Iohâ— the Governour upon which ground Alexander had grea reason to make his claim and protestation as heir to his Father Notwithstanding of his challenge and bravado Alexander being more fit for a Cowl than a Crown in open Parlament gave over all title he had to the Crown in his brothers favour Whereupon to deprive him ever hereafter of lawfull Succession they turned him Priest being made Bishop of Murray and Abbot of Skoon A truce being sincerely kept with England tumults within the Countrey appeased particular deadly fewds and jarres of private persons eithâ—r curbed or smothered up the Governour giveth himself soâ—e weeks to his Courtly recreations at Faulk-land with what pastime soever he be delighted or beguile the hours all the day long in the might he is often haunted by his old familiar the Priour of St. Andrews whom ambition spight malice never suffered to take any rest This man put in the Governours head and made him beliâ—ve that his endeavours and pains heretofore would prove but vain in settling the Government and that the peace of the Kingdom should never be lasting firm and permanent if so dangerous a Subject as the Lord Chamberlain remained alive whom neither rewards could soften nor honours and preferment oblige and make constant How many times had he been pardoned How often and without a cause had he returned again to his foâ—mer Conspiracies Should the Governour of his own free-will or of necessity be moved to return to France what would not the boldness of this man attmept in his absence which his authority and presence could never curb and keep within compass the life of this man would be the death and total ruin of the Peace of the concord and harmony of the State bring forth nothing 〈◊〉 dangerous and wicked effects the violence of ambition having pulled him from his own judgement Should he be challenged and put to a tryal of hiâ— Peers He could not shun the blow of Justice the cry of his oppression and wrongs having reached heaven A member so often in vain cured and still gangrened should be cut off The Governour whose Brains the Priour had now embrued with jealousies thought it no great matter upon the inâ—ormations he had received to put the Chamberlain to a Tryal for if he proved not guilty it would be but to leave him in that state and case he was found in and calumnies though they do not burn yet black Being come to Edinburgh he appointed a convention of the Nobility all which time he earnestly trâ—fficked with the Friends of the Lord Chamberlain that he should not be absent the matters to be determined in Counsel concerniâ—g him nearly and he had need of his advice and counsel The Court and City being full of whisperings and expectation of some sudden change many disswadeth the Chamberlain from appearing if he appeared that he would leave his Brother Master William a man equal in judgement and courage to himself behind He trained into false hopes by the blâ—â—dishments of the Governour towards his friends and inveigled by presumption with his Brother and Sir Andrew called by the Countrey Lord David Car of Farnehast commeth to Court where they were with many ceremonies welcomed by the Governour with more than ordinary favours enâ—ertained and shortly after all three imprisoned produced in judgment to answer to such things as should be objected against them according to the Lawes of the Kingdom and submitted to the Sentence of a Jury No new criâ—e was laid to their charge Iames Earl of Murray the natural Son of the late King accused the Chamberlain of the death of his Father who by many witnesses was proved alive and seen to come from the Battel of Flowden This by pregnant evidences not being proved he was indicted of divers other points of Treason and his private faults are found out and laid against him they renew the memory of the late stirs of State and these disorders of which he was eithâ—r the Author or accessary to them He had favoured and maintained the Factions Thefts and Robberies of wicked Malâ—fâ—ctours on the Borders he had not honourably nor honestly carryed himself at the Battel of Flowden performing neither the duty of a Souldier nor Commander He had suffered the English to repair and of new fortifie the Castle of Norham which without either trouble to himself or danger of his Friends he might have hindred Of every of which points and particularities he not clearly justifying himself the Judges prepared and directed by the Governor whom they record to have given information of a hainous crime comitted by the Chamberlain and his brother for the odiousness of it not to be revealed to the people pronounce him and his Brother guilty and condemn them to have their Heads cut off The day following the sentence was put in execution and their heads fixt on the most eminent part of the Town of Edenburgh David Car of Farnhast either by the Jury being declared not guilty as some have recorded or by the Corrupting of his Keepers as others or by the permission of the Governor escap'd this danger which brought the People to believe the Chamberlain was by his means entrapped To sinck whom he put himself in hazzard of drowning This Calamity of the Family of the Humes being so antient potent and couragious brâ—d terrour and astonishment in many of the other Noblemen of the Kingdom and estranged their Hearts from the Governour his ears began to be after attentive to every rumour and his eyes pryed into each accident at lâ—st as if he were wearyed with wrastling with the many disorders and cumbersome Factions of the Countrey he sought how by some fair way he might for a while return to France Embassadours being sent from King Francis to Scotland to renew the antient League between the two Nations when the Nobles assembled to make choice of the man on whom they should transfer the honour of the accomplishment of so solem an action and pass to France the Governour carryed the matter so by means of the French that it was conferred on himself but with his condition to entertain them with hopes of his Return that he should not stay above six Moneths out of the Countrey Having obtained this privileged absence of them his next care was to preserve the State from any alterations till his Return and to find the Government as he left it Hereupon to preserve the Person of the King he is conveyed from Sterlin to the Castle of Edinburgh and trusted to the custody of the Earl of Marshall the Lords Ruthen and Borthick two of which should be alwaies resident with him and accompany and assist
the Lord Areskin his constant and unremovable Guardian For the Government of the State he leaveth seaven Deputies in his Place The Earl of Arran Angus Huntley Arguyl the Arch-Bishops of St. Andrews and Glasgow to these is adjoined Sir Anthony Darcey le Sieur de la Beautie whom he had made Câ—ptain of Dumbar and promoted to be in the Lord Humes Place Warden of the East Marches keeping the daies of Truce and Justice Courts This was the man to whom the entire Conduct of all the Governours affairs was intrusted and who should give him advertisement of what did pass in Scotland during his aboad in France That no discord should arise amongst men equal in places and authority the ordinary occasion of division several shires which they should govern to every one of them are alloted To Sir Anthony Darcey was destinated the Government of the Merss and Lothian to the other their shires were appointed as the convenience of their dwelling places Friends and Kinred did afford them Under pretexts and fair colours of honour and as to pass the time and be trained in French Civility also for the greater magnificency the Governour took in his company the Earl of Lennox the Lord Gordon Masters of Glencaâ—n and Arran other young Lords who in effect were so many Hostages that no stir by their Parents Kinred Friends should be raised during his absence He likewise under dark Shadows and far sought pretences committed to such Castles as were garrisoned with French Souldiers as Dumbarton Dumbar Garâ—et certain Barons of the South and West Countreys and who wanted nothing but liberty not for any thing they had done but what they might do the Governour being out of the Kingdom Matters brought to such a pass as his best Politicians could devise accompanied with Master Gaven Dowglas Bishop of Dunkell and Master Partick Panther Secretary to the late King men whom he feared to leave behing him and entertained though he knew they loved him not as his bosome friends in Iune at Dumbartoun he took Shipping Queen Margarite after she had remained a year in England understanding by Letters the Governour had taken the Seas and was on his way towards France honourably dismissed by her Brother came to Scotland At Berwick she was received by her Husband the Earl of Anguss but he was not accpeted with the favours he was wont for that plague of too much love jealousie had infected her having gotten some inkling that he delighted in a free bed and during the time of her aboad in England had entertained a MIstress in Dowglas dale an injury beyond degree of Reconcilement after which she began to disdain him and seek how she might be devorced from him Though whilst the King was kept in the Castle to Edenburgh all access unto him was refused her when hâ— was transported to the Castle of Craigmillar out of a suspition and rumour the Plague had infested Edenburgh by the courtesie of the Lord Areskin she had liberty to visit him But her frequent haunting him out of too much motherly kindness breeding a suspition in his Guardians that as had once before been practised by a Queen in Scotland she had an intention to have stoln him away and send him to his vncle restrained her longer access to him and procured his retuâ—n back again to the Castle of Edinburgh Sir Anthony Darcey having by his vigilancy pains courage given many proofs of his worth in defence of the Borders and administration of Justice in those shires he governed The other Governours often disagreeing amongst themselvs either out of Love of rest and to be vacant from business or out of malice to procure him greater hatred declare him absolute Deputy and they gave their promises to second him in way of Justice and here he found the difference between extreams and mediocrities Many disdained a Stranger should be in that place so many brave men of their Nation neglected A quarrel at that time either true and reall or as others have recorded altogether forged and contriv'd to draw the Deputy in a Danger arising between the Stewards of the Laird of Langtoun and one of his Uncles who by the power and means of Sir David Hume of Wedderburn whose Sister was his wife had thrust out and ejected the young heir and them of their own Castle of Langtoun and kept it by force The Deputy aâ—companyed with certain Lords of the Borders and some French men his own Domesticks came to the Town of Dunce to hold a Justic Court concerning this Riot The Humes who thought nothing juster than revenge nor nobler than the effects of anger having sworn a requital of their Chieâ—s wrong and to pay the Governour home when occasion should be offered by the counsel and forwardness of Sir David Hume lay an ambush and ly in wait for the Deputy the Plot not failing they invade him at such a disadvantage the some fo this Servants killed he was constrained to seek an escape by the swiftness of his Horse who in the chase either falling or sinking in a marish left his Mâ—ster to the cruelty of his Persuers who strook off his head and to feed their eyes with the spectacle of their rage set it to the disgrace of the French on the battlements of the Castle of Hâ—me This end had Sir Anthony Darcey who deserved so well both of France and Scotland having been courteous valiant and noble in all his actions and a great Administrator of Justice who spared no travel and freely adventured upon any dangers to suppress malefactors and desend the weak and innocent The Governours That gâ—eater mischief should not follow the boldness of these men made choice of the Earl of Arran to resist their outrage and declare him Warden of the Mâ—rches and Supreâ—m Which eleâ—tion displeased the Earl of Angus the Earl of Arran armed with power neglecting Angus his interest immediately committed Sir George Dowglas his his Brother to the Castle of Edenburgh and Mark Car in Garvet Castle out of a suspition they were accessory to the slaughter of Sir Anthony Darcey In a Parliament shortly following many of the Humes and Cockburns Fugitives for this slaughter and for that they had invited the English to their aid and spoil of the Countrey are declared Rebels The Parliament being dissolved the Earl of Arran with a sufficient number of Souldiers and some great Ordinance besieged the Castles of Hume and Langtoun and had them rendred to his mercy When the accident of Sir Anthony Darcey was noised at the Court of France King Francis is recorded to have said he never looked for better at the hands of the Scots and that the Duke of Albany should have deputed men of their own nation to have governed them and not a stranger being a people delighting in Misgovernment ever well pleased at the Falls and tragical ends of their Rulers and joying to see any hard hap happen to them they deem happy The Bishop of Dunkell who had
of the Duke of Albanies taking the Seas was spread abroad the King of England by secret Letters had required the Earl of Angus who then an Exile staid in France to come to him after the receit of which with a short-leave taking he left France where he had staid almost three years commeth to England King Henry had brought him to believe That the Duke had determined to extirpate his whole Linnage To prevent which he made him offer of Men and Ammunition to preserve his own and by his faction at home and his assistance to send the Duke over Seas which if he had staied the Earl was esteemed powerful enough to have accomplished The Duke of Albany being in France the Queen with the Government of the State assumeth the person of her Sonneâ— whom she moved to leave Sterlin and come to Edinburgh the third day after he had made his entry in the Town she lodg'd with him in the Maiden Castle and it seized on armed with authority she doubted not to make the Countrey yeild her all obedience That the Supream Magistrate of the Town should not oppose her Designs he is put from his Office and the Lord Maxwell a man to her obsequioâ—s is substituted in his place To give the fairer lustre to her Actions a Parlament is called at Edenburgh that what she did might consist with Law When King Henry understood the Duke had left Scotland to exclude and bar him all regress he sent one Magnus a great Oratour but greater by the renown of his skill in the Laws with Roger Ratcliff his Embassadours to try how the Scots amidst unnecessary turmoils would rellish a Truce and Cesâ—ation of Arms and these lay the blame of all the disorders and discords between the two Nations upon the Duke The Nobles tyred with their tedious Wars beginning to espy a Heaven of rest cheerfully accept of this Embassie and agree unto a Truce for one whole year To confirm which they condescend Commissioners shall be dispatched 〈◊〉 who shall treat not only for a Truce but for a firm and lasting Peace between the two Nations and unite the two Crowns in bands of Amity as well as they were united in degrees of blood The Earl of Angus his enemy abandoning the Kingdom after honourable entertainment of the King of England many promises to befriend him and blandishments at his departing commeth to Scotland and his return began to change the Game of State The Queens and Earl of Arrans Faction carryed all matters of importance the Earls of Lennox Arguyl and the Humes had been sequestred from publick imployments the first faction by his presence find their power diminisht the other by his counterpoise and assistance have new hopes of arising both factions disliked that Angus should arise to the first place and suspected he would not be content with the second they loved to have him an equal not Supreme Private jarrs smothered and interests delayed matters concerning England requiring a hasty and present discharge Gilbert Earl of Cassiles Robert Cockburn Bishop of Dunkell David Mill Abboâ— of Cambus kenneth are sent Commissioners to the Court of England At Greenwich they are honorably and kindly received by King Henry whose countenance promised them a refusal of no reasonable thing they would require The Bishop had a speech the Sum of which was That dissention and hatred taken away between the two Nations a faithful Peace might be agreed unto and confirmed their Discords turned into Vnion their Rancour into Love which to bring to pass and make durable the only apparent and probable means was to bestow the Lady Mary the Kings daughter upon James the young King of Scotland The English with great joy applauded to what was said And King Henry appointed certain Commissioners to treat about that purpose in private These when they had met to advance the Union of the Kingdomes desired these Conditions First That the Scotish Nation giving over and fairly forsaking the League they had with France should enter in a new League with them upon the same conditions and terms which were contained in their League with France Next That the young King of Scotland till by age he was able for marriage should be brought up at the Court of England When the Embassadours of Scotland had answered That these conditions were above their Commission to which they could not well answer and desired a time to acquaint the Council of Scotland with them it was condescended unto Thus two of them remaining at London the Earl of Cassiles returned to Scotland to bring back an answer When the day in which the Parlament should have been held was come the Queen and they who were of her faction as the Earls of Arran Murray Eglintoun fearing the Earl of Angus might turn the wavering peoples affection and move them to some Revolt which might hinder their Determinations or terrify the Commissioners by the frequent convention of his Friends and Followers constraining their voices and restraining their freedom of speech Or that they had a plot to surprize some of the contrary Faction and by authority of Parlament commit them in that place caused a Proclamation to be made That none of the three Estates should sit or assemble themselves in the Town of Edinburgh but that they should keep their meeting in the castle and there give their presence The Earls of Angus Lennox Arguyl Arch-bishop of Saint Andrews Bishop of Aberdeen and Dumblane with their adherents and others who joined with them rather out of fear than good will refuse to enter the Castle and require That the Parlament be kept in the accustomed Place the King may in Triumph be shewn to his own people conveyed along the High-Street All which bâ—ing denyed them giving out That Iustice was violated the King kept against his will as a Prisoner the Government and custody of his person seised on without consent of the three Estates they surround the Castle with two thousand men in Arms stop all furniture of food and victuals which should been afforded by the Town In this distress they in the Castle turn the great Ordinance against the Town and threaten the innocent Citizens with the overthrow of their buildings Some powder and time spent in terrifying the people at last Church-men interposing themselves and interceding perswading with the parties an accomodation and atonement is wrought their fury quenched all rancour supprest injuries forgotten the King in magnificence and pomp is convoyed from the Castle to his Palace at Holy-rood-house and the Estates assemble in the wonted place of the Town of Edenburgh In this Parliament the Authority of the Governour is abrogated by which means they saved him a labour from returning into Scotland again Eight Lords were chosen to have the custody of the Kings person quarterly every one his Moneths successively and the whole to stand for tke Government of the State yet with this Limitation That the King by their Counsel should not determine nor ordain
the Lord Howard that the consent of the Nobles of the Kingdom obtained the enterview at the Feast of Michaelmas at Newcastle might be condescended unto he would neither accept of the place nor time His Master having already as matter he had never put in question made great preparations for this interview at York that he would think his offers slighted and an affront put upon him if any excuses were alleged to the contrary Thus with some bravadoes to the Council he departed The King to give satisfaction to his Uncle of his Councils proceedings with the Lord Howard sendeth after him Sir Adam Otterburn of Red-hall who laieth the fault of his not appearing upon the Lord Howard complaining That he menaced the Counsellours and would have forced their votes that he was a great Friend to Sir George Dowglasse and other Rebels who convoyed him to Scotland and accompanyed him back again It was against the credit and honour of free born Princes to be threatned what was friendly begun should friendly continue and end Princes should not be constrained especially in matters which were not of Debt but benevolence Amidst these importunities and solicitations King Iames with five well manned Ships taketh the Seas giving out a Voyage for France and the French record it was his first adventure to come to them but it is more likely this proceeded from Policy of State to try the affections and demeanour of the great ones of his kingdome in his absence rather than any intended voyage towards Forainers For with this Fleet he arriveth at Orkenay there in some Forts placeth garrisons sails about the Islands of Sky and Lewes surprizeth the chief of thâ— Clannes of those Highland Islanders whom he sent for Hostages to the Castles of Dumbartoun and Edenburgh And when by the skill of one Alexander Lyndsay his Pilote he had sounded the remotest Rocks of his Kingdom he was driven by storms to take Land at Saint Ninians neer Whitehorn in Galloway This Voyage bread great fear in those Islanders and Savages and brought long Peace and quietness to those Countreys thereafter At his Return to Edenburgh for Disorders committed or surmised in his absence most part of the great Men neer the Borders are charged to enter their persons in Ward during the Kings pleasure Walter Scot of Balclough is committed to the Castle of Edenburgh the Lord Hume to the Castle of Down Farnchast to Faulkland the Laird of Iohnstoun and Mark Car to Dundee and others elsewhere He knew the common Riders never made incursions without either the command or tollerance of these Superiours The remote High-lands and Borderers made peaceable by the incarcerations of the Chiefs of the Clannes and Families there commanding he may when occasion is offered in person visite any neighbour Prince or State To second his former Embassadours in their suit in France he had sent the Earl of Murray William Stuart Bishop of Aberdeen with others and King Francis in regard of the indisposition of his Daughter Magdalen had made an offer to them of his nearest kins-woman The Kings mind having been long troubled with youthful thoughts by the many matches offered him and thinking marriages contracted and trusted to the eyes of others one way or other deficient resolveth to go in person and woe for himself Upon this resolution he imbarked at Leith concealing the intention of his Voyage many suppose he maketh for England to pacify his Uncle for many wished the same Whilst he is on the Ocean the Winds contrarying his course a violent Tempest separating his Ships the Pilote asketh him to what Coast he should direct his Course To any thou best likest answered the King except towards England the storm encreasing and sleep shutâ—ing up the Kings eyes these who accompanyed him command the Pilote to turn sails again for Scotland and not struggle with the pittiless Element for matters which might be delayed and a little time could not turn worse so when the King awoke he found himself neer his own Harbours upon the Forth and was so highly displeased with the Authors of his return that he never pardoned them the fault was laid on Sir Iames Hamiltoun and to stir him more against this Man there wanted not who said His obedience to his Prince was dissembled that he accompanyed his Master to no other end in his voyage than to cross his intentions so far as was in his power The season thereafter being more fit for Navigation he ascendeth again his Ships at Kirkcaldie and with a prosperous wind the tenth day after arrived at Deep in Normandy The Earls of Arran Arguyl Rothess Arroll Lords Flamin Boyd attended him with many Barons and Knights the Earl of Murray young Lennox and Cassiles the Lord Areskin and Abbot of Arbroth expected him at Paris but he preventing the fame of his comming with a small Trayn holdeth his way to Vandosm to see the Lady Mary of Burbon all which way one Iohn Tennant personating the Lord of the Company he passed undescryed But come to Vaâ—dosm whether the Lady had a Letter for the same from David Beatoun or that by matching the faces of one of those Strangers with a Pourtraict she had of King Iames in likeness as she said he was found out and challenged by the Lady of that fault which was easily confess'd and pardoned He found her very beautiful and eminent in all Princely excellencies but bethinking how he having choice of three Princesses all Daughters of Kings if he should fix his affection on this Lady at the first interview he should be obnoxious to the indignation of the other he returned as he came towards Rouen where his Nobles attended him and having understood King Francis was to give the Emperour Battel in Provence quitting his Retinue he posted towards him The Daulphine meeteth him at the Chappel between Tarray and St. Sophoâ—in in the Countrey of Lions King Francis receiveth him with as much honour as could be desired and convoyeth him to Paris the Peers of the kingdom haste from all quarters hither to entertain this Stranger Prince and the Court is changed into an Academy of Knightly exercise where King Iames proveth inferiour our to none in â—eats of Arms. Magdalen the Kings eldest Daughter is his Mistress a Lady fair young of a lovely countenance and comely behaviour above all others of the kingdom The Lady Margarite her younger Sister who after was marryed to the Duke of Savoy is offered to him by reason of the tender and weak disposition of her Sister but Magdalen by the glaunces of her Princely Woer reobtaining her health her body as it were following the Temperature of her Spirit or that it appeared to her self and her Father so King Iames continuing in his first resolution the marriage is contracted between them an hundred thousand Crowns of the Sun being promiâ—ed in Dowry besides thirty thousand Franks of yearly pension during the life of King Iames the jointuâ—e assured to her by the King of
Scotland was all the lands possessed by any former Queen the Earldoms of Strathern and Fyfe with the Palace of Faulkland and other lands of the best and most certain revenue Thus Anno in the Church of Nostre-Dame in Paris the King of Scotland maryed the Lady Magdalen in presence of her Father seaven Cardinals the King of Navarr many great Dukes and Barons King Francis after the Solemnities of this Marriage having Piccardy and Piedmont then over-run by the Imperialists and King Iames fearing he might suffer wrong in his absence from the King of England with assurance of mutual Amity part from other in the end of April and from New-haven the Queen with her husband the 29. of May arrives at the Port of Leith it is reported that after she put her foot on the Shore upon her knees she kissed the ground Praying for all happiness to the Countrey and people Never Queen in so Short a time was more beloved of her Husband nor sooner made conquest of the hearts of her Subjects Nor was their greater hopes conceived of any alliance than of this nor greater joy did ever arise for those hopes but as in the life of man there is ever remaining more of bitter than sweet so were these contentments but Shadows matched with the real Sorrow that the death of that young Lady brought forth For she lived not many weeks after her Arrivall in Scotland when of a Feaver which she contracted in Iune she departed this life in Iuly She was buried with the greatest mourning Scotland ever till that time was participant of in the Church of Holy-rood-house neer King Iames the Second These last honours to the dead Queen and funeral pomp finished the King desirous of Succession hath yet his thoughts wandring in France Mary of Burbon daughter to Charls Duke of Vandosm being frustrate of her Royal hopes had not onely turned religious but was dead of displeasure Whilst he disported himself at the Court of France he had been acquainted with a Lady rich in all excellencies who next Magdalen had the power of his affections Mary of Lorrain Sister to Francis Daughter to Rhene Duke of Guize and Widdow of the Duke of Longueâ—ille Her he thinketh for hir Stemm healthful complexion fertility for the had been a mother and other fortunes worthy of his love But to try her affection towards him he directeth David Beaâ—oun his late paranymph and the Lord Maxwell to France Whilst they traffique this Marriage many false accusations as Plots laid against his person are intended one after another at the Court amongst which two are remarkable for their notable calumny Iohn eldest Son to the Lord Forbess a young Gentleman chief of his name hardy and valorous but eviâ— brought up and therefore easily suspect to be capable of sin had for a Servant or companion and ordinary sharer of his pleasures one named Strachan a man come of the dreg of the people and perfectly wicked This man after much familiarity and some fecret service and attendance to saâ—iate his insatiable desire desired earnestly something from the Master of Forbess which he passionately refused to give him upon which carryed away with rage and malice he not onely renounced his friendship and service but betook himself to the Service of his Enemy the Earl of Huntley by whose advice he forgeth a malitious Plot to overthrow him To compass their design they accuse the Master of Forbess to have had once an intention and Mind to kill the King that the Dowglasses might be restored to their wonted honors and antient possessions By price and prayers witnesses are procured to prove this against him and convict him or at the least to leave him suspected and taxed with this Treason Though this crime was not sufficiently and clearly proved yet was the Master of Forbess indicted and convicted by an Assize for having conspired the Kings death for the which he was beheaded and quarter'd and his Quarters set aloft upon the Gates of Edenburgh This Gentlemans death proveth how dangerous the Society and company of the wicked is to any for ascending the fatal scaffold he justifyed his innocency of what was laid to his Charge but confessed the guilt of the Laird of Drummes bloud by the justice of God brought him to that end His Father the Lord Forbess was upon suspiâ—ion kept long after in the Castle of Edenburgh The King when he could not amend what was past testifyed he was grieved at the death of this Nobleman for he banished Strachan because he had so long concealed the Treason of Forbess silence in a matter importing no less than the life of a Prince being reckoned equal to the Treason he made his second brother one of his Domesticks restoring him to the estate which was forfeited This thunderclap was immediately followed by another for the quality of the person and strangeness of the crime deplorable but more for the horrour and terrour of the punishment Iane Dawglas nister to Archembald Earl of Angus the Widdow of Iohn Lyon Lord Glammes with her Husband Archembald Campbell of Keepnâ—eth her young Son the Lord Glammes and an old Priest were brought to Edenburgh committed and accused that they should have poisoned the King Their accuser was William Lyon a kinsman of the late Lord Glammes This treason had no probability of truth among such who knew the accused being persons who lived far from the Court in their solitary mansions seldom or never almost seeing the King Nevertheless their accusations were believed and strict command given to the Judges to dispatch their process William Lyon aggravating the case represented to the King the anâ—â—ent faults of the Family of the Dowglassâ—s committed against his â—redecessors the particular wrongs of Earl Archembald now stirring the English against him and ravaging his Borders That he should believe he not being able to be restored to his first estate by prayers and solicitations of Neighbour Princes nor by open force now set on work his last engines to come to his end though it were with the life of his soveraign That in so secret and dangerous a plot he could not use but his neerest kindred a Woman and his own Sister might attempt such a mischief herâ—ex and other qualities making her less suspect to have access to his person Suppose cleer proofs could not be found against her the whole race of the Dowglasses should be extirpate being a Linage onely â—ertile in bringing forth monsters of Rebellion That by sparing her life and suffering her to escape he should afford her time licence and power to execute what she but now perhaps had intended The King not knowing the mans particular hatred against this Lady for some write He did inform against her in revenge that she refused to marry him giving her self to another suffred the Process to be concluded Some of the Judges would have referred her to the Kings clemency till a farther tryall of the Witnesses might be had upon whose testimony
the Process did depend it being a safer way in Judgement to absolve the guilty than condemn the innocent But the most part gave her over to the Assizers the better part of which being in voices fewer the greater who neither respecting conscience within them nor shame with the present age and posterity nor the supreme justice of Heaven find this poor Lady guilty and she is condemned to be burnt alive Her sentence was executed the fifth day after the beheading of the Master of Forbess on the Castle hill of Edenburgh in sight of her Husband who either out of Revenge or Fear after this tragical end of his Lady seeking to save himself by escape out of the Prison whilst he came over the Wall by the shortness of the Cable was dashed against the Rock and found dead Though the tender years of the Lord Glammes her son proved his innocency he remained prisoner in the Castle till after the Kings death The old Priest when after torture nothing could be proved against was set at liberty William Lyon the author of this calumny was banished the Countrey which justifyed the Ladies integrity and verifyed than however Princes love to find out Treason they hate the Informers except upon cleer grounds Upon the like suspitions Droomlenrigge and Hemps-Field antient Barons having challenged others had leave to try the verity by Combate the lists were designed by the King who was a Spectator and Umpire of their Valour at the Court of of the Pallace of Holy-rood-house They appeared upon the day armed from head to foot like antient Palladines and after many enterchanged blows to the disadvantage of their Casks Corslets and Vantbraces when the one was become breathless by the weight of his arms and thunder of his blowes and the other who was short sighted had broken his ponderous Sword the King by Heraulds caused separate them with disadvantage to neither of these Champions and the verity which was found was that they dared both fight in close Arms. The Abbot of Arbroth and the Lord Maxwell by many enterchanged letters full of Princely love had assured the King and the Lady Mary of Lorrain and articles being agreed upon to the great content of the French they were espoused by Proctors as is the costome amongst Princes with great triumph in the City of Paris in the presence of the French King and many Peers after which solemnity Monsieur d' Annabault Admiral of France accompanied herto New-haven in the beginning of the Moneth of Iune1538 where she embarqued and with many French Ships when she had been tost on the Seas came to Fysses-ness where at Cayrel she was attended by the Noblemen and the King who consumated the mariage in the Cathedral Church of St. Andrews in Iuly Nothing more linketh the affections of the marryed than children the first year the Queen answereth her husbands hopes and in S. Andrews was delivered of a Son who was named Iames the Arch-bishop of St. Andrews and Earl of Arran being his God-Fathers and the Queen the Kingâ— Mother his Godmother 1539. in Febr. thereafter she was crowned Queen of Scotland in the Abby Church of Holy-rood-house by the Abbot of Arbroth at which time Margarite the old Queen falling sick at Methven in few daies departed and was buryed in the Chaâ—terhouse of St. Iohnstoun near the Tomb of King Iames the first The King her Son with all the Nobility and Gentry being present at her funerals which were celebrated in most solemn and pompous manner Not long after Iames Beatoun Arch-bishop a man of great age followed this Lady to the other World he had provided Successors to his Benefices and his Arch-bishops See to David Beatoun afterwards Cardinal whom the King accepted and admitted without contestation The kingdom now began to be divided in opinions of Religion they which held the helm of State labouring in vain â—o reconcile them the King was sore perplexed and uncertain what course to follow suppress them he could not to give way to them without shaking the strongest beams of the policy of his Kingdom seem'd unto him impossible his privy Counsellours being more of his antient Servants than Nobles or Church men of which many were piping through these flecked clouds of ignorance as they favored gave their opinions some one way some another and a freedome of speech being given one of them as they were in his chamber together spake to him to this purpose Sir amongst the many blessings your Subjects enjoy under this your Government this is not the least that for the Weal of your Majesty and the publick good of the Kingdome the meanest of your Subjects may freely open his mind and declare his opinion unto you his Soveraign And if ever there was a time in which grave good and sound couâ—sel should be delivered to your Majesty it is this and the difficulties of the Common-wealth do now require it Nor ever in matters of advice and consultation can we embrace and follow what is most reasonable and what according to Laws Iustice and Equity should be but what necessity driveth us unto and what is most convenient for the present time to be and what we may well and fairly accomplish and bring to pass The Estate of your Kingdome is troubled with diversity of opinions concerning Religion It is to be wished that the one onely true Religion were in the hearts of all your Subjects since diversity of opinions of Religion and heresâ—es are the very punishment of God Almighty upon men for their horrible vices and roaring sins And when Men forsake his fear and true obedience God abandoneth them to their own opinions and fantasies in Religion out of which arise Partialities Factions Divisions Strife intestine Discords which burst forth into civil war and in short time bring Kingdoms and Common-wealths to their last periods But matters arising to such a height and disorder as by all appearance they are like to advance in this Kingdom the number of the Sectaries dayly increasing without dissembling my thoughts to your Majesty The preservation of the People being the Supream and principal law which God Almighty hath enjoyned to all Princes I hold it more expedient to give place to the exercise of both religions than under pretence and shadow of them to suffer the common Peace of your Subjects to be torn in pieces What can wisdom Sir advise you to do with these Separatists Either they must be tolerated for a time or they must altogether be removed and that by death or banishment So soon as a Prince beginneth to spoil banâ—sh kill burn his people for matters abstract from sense and altogether spiritual he becometh as it were a Plague unto them It is an Errour of State in a Prince for an opinion of Piety to condemn to death the adherers to new doctrine For the constancy and patience of those who voluntarily suffer all temporall miseries and death it self for matters of faith stirr up and invite numbers who at
the homage of their humble minds accept their gratefull zeal and for deeds accept that great good will which they have ever carryed to the high deserts of your Ancestors And shall ever to your own and your Royal Race whilst those rocks shall be overshadowed with buildings buildings inhabited by men and while men be induced either with counsel or courage or enjoy any peice of Reason Sense or Life An Apologetical Letter March 2. 1635. MY LORD IN a time when men for reading of Papers concerning State are challenged it must be a great hazard to write them and a greater to send them from home and the most to send them to one so near the Helm as is your Lordship who the next day perhaps may put in the Princes hands what is sent him And then though what is set down may be free of great faults yet must it pass and be understood as it pleaseth the Prince to construe it But what Marius Geminus said to Iulius Caesar may be said to King Charles Caesar qui apud te audent dicere magnitudinem tuam ignorant qui non audent humanitatem And writing to your Lordship I know to whom I write Thus the way of glory lying neer the Gates of danger I have adventured this sheet of Paper of which I beseech your Lordship to be both Judge and Patron What a noise hath been raised in this Countrey by prosecuting a piece of writing supposed to be derogatory to the Honour of the Kings Majesty No times have been without such men Wise men keep their thoughts locked up in the Cabinets of their Brests and suffer the faults of times patiently Fools rail cry out but amend nothing What ever advise hath been given for the putting of Libellers to the extremity of Law I would say withall humble respect to grave Statesmen that in a matter of a Calumnie and reproach with Subjects a Prince can do nothing more â—itting his own fame and reputation than to slight and contemn them as belonging nothing to him and that t were better to neglect than be too curious in searching after the Authors So Theodosius Honorius Arcadius were wont to say if any Man speak ill of the Emperour if he do it of lightness it is to contemned if of madness to be pittyed if of injury to be remitted And Alexander the Great used to say Regium est benefacere male audire or as Plutarch reporteth it Regium est a quibus male audias magis esse iis beneficum Nero otherwise a terrible Prince when that Pasquil was given out against him Quis neget AEneae magna de stirpe Neronem Sustulit hic Matrem sustulit ille Patrem Or as DION citeth it 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Nero Orestes Alcmaeon Matricidae He took no notice of it followed not the Writers with a-any pâ—nishment sought them not as ye find in Suetonius Et quosdam ad Iudicem delatos ad Senatum affici graviore poena prohibuit Writings which we scorn and make none account of themselves vanish and turn into nought If we chafe and fret it would appear that we have been therein touched and vively see in them our own faults and misdemeanor taxed and laid open If these Papers for the Kings honour were not to be seen and read or if they did derogate to the same of the Nobles why were they not suppressed and hidden but is this the way to suppress and hide them to imprison arraign banish execute the persons near whom they are found or is it not rather to turn them a piece of the Story of the Time to make such a noise about them and by seeking to avoid the smoak to fall into the fire what we would most evite and shun to be the Authors to bring upon our own heads What gained Queen Elizabeth the twenty three of her Reign by cutting off the hands of Stubbes and Page on a Scaffold for writing that Book against her marriage with the Duke of Anjou save that out of horror of that new and unpractised punishment the people acknowledged her to be the right and not uncertain daughter of King Henry the eight and she began to be feared where before she was beloved of her Subjects whom a people fear they hate and whom they hate they wish taken way A Prince should be more violent in revenging other mens quarrels than his own That unfortunate Duke of Buckingham in the time of Richard the third could make good use against the Succession of the Race of Edward the fourth in his Speech to the Commons of of London by remembring them of the strange proceedings of King Edward against a Merchant named Burdet who dwelling at the sign of the Crown and having said to his Son that after his death he would make him Heritor of the Crown meaning his own house was for this Tale in four hours after quartered which blot is eternally fixed to that Prince In the Reign of King Richard the third who had ever known than Pasquil against three of his Courtiers Louell Ratcliff and Catsby The Rat the Cat and Louel that Dog Rule all England under the Hog If his tyranny had not been mightily extended against that poor Gentleman Collingburn the Maker of it Ye will say it is in a Princes power to suppress such Papers by Authority That is the only way to make all men seek them and being found highly prize them Tacitus telleth us of certain verses of Fabricius Veiento against Church-men and Senatours which were condemned to be burut as long as the reading and finding of them was dangerous they were much sought for and with danger read but being afterwards licentiate to be read and the liberty of having them obtained they were forgotten and no man cared for them No Prince how great soever can oblish Pens nor will the Memorials of ages be extinguished by present power the posterity rendering to every one his due honour and blame It is true that great men should direct their great care to Fame and hold nothing more dear unto them and he who contempneth it neglecteth those actions by which it is acquired But it is pitty men should be more careful and studious of fame for times to come in which they are not than of honesty in the present time in which they live Sometimes it is great wisdom in a Prince not to reject and disdain them who freely tell him his duty and open to him his misdemeanours to the Common-wealth and the surmisâ—s and umbrages of his people and Council for the amending disorders and bettering the form of his Government As if a man should tell King Charls That there is none in all his Kingdoms here can reckon himself Lord of his own goods amongst so many taxes and taillages so much pilling and polling So that substance is dayly plucked and pilled from honest men to be lashed out amongst unthrifts that as Thucydides writes of the great plague in his time at Athens Men seeing
cause it may be thoright these men found out their new Poesie differing from the Matters Manners Rules of former ages either they did not see the way of Poesie or were affraid to enter it The verses of Camillus Quernus as they are imitated by Strada seem very plausible and to admiration to some but how far they are off right Poesie children may guess These mens new conceptions approach neerer his than to the Majesty and Statelinefs of the great Poets The contempt and undervaluing of verses hath made men spare their travel in adorning them but Poesie as it hath overcom ignorance at last will overcom envy and comtempt This I have been bold to write unto you not to give you any instruction but to manifest mine obedience to your request W. D. To the Right Honourable the Earl of Sterlin WHen the pittiful news came of so dear Funerals though I had an intention to have written to your Lordship I restrained my self both because your wound was flagrant and that I had not an argument of comfort which was not your own Nothing is now left me but to manifest that the sense of this loss could not but perplex him grievously who never made any difference between your fortunes and his own I hold my self Copartner of all your Griefs as I have been of your prosperities I know your Fatherly affiction I know too your constancy which being seasoned with piety will not suffer you to repine at that which is the determinate will of God Your erudition and experience instruct you that such accidents should be taken in a good part and chearfully which are not incident to us alone and which by our sighs tears plaints we may not evite and put far from us ye must not attend till time mitigate your languor for this do the vulgar sort of men with sola dies poterit tantum lenire dolorem A wise man should prevent and anticipate time over-run newborn Grief which is an ungrateful Guest thrusting out and ran sacking the Masters of their Inn. I who am conscious to your patience and wisdom am assured ye have performed all this already upon which confidence I will leave off to trouble you further or lay a heavier burthen and needless task upon my self W. Drummond To SHould ye think to escape this Enemy of Virtue Fortune when she never spareth the most Worthy who hath ever yet in many excellencies been eminent whom she hath not either after one fashion or other if not trampled yet tossed and make not a long search in the old ages of the world and through the Mists of Antiquity but look upon our own Times and our Fathers Ye have Sidney cropped in the vigour of his Youth by a murthering Bullet Rawleigh brought to a fatal Scaffold la Nove with the Marquess D' Urfee complaining in miserable Prisons Tasso famishing in the like Thraldom the two Counts of Mirandula Spectacles of Pitty and Cruelty the one by too soon a Death if death can be too soon the other by being assassinated by his neerhst kinsemen As if Excellencies were the only Object of Disasters and some secret influence laboured to make the bravest of men and the basest equal Or that the superiour powers thought Glory to belong only to them and no praise-worthy Actions should befal poor Mortals Yet should they not envy silly men a dusty honour which in some small moments of time vanisheth and reacheth no further than the narrow bounds of some few Climates of this small Globe of the Earth We may doubt whether Excellencies and Heroical Virtues were to be desired with so many dangers and miseries lackying them or a homebred untaught rude Plobeian life W. DRUMMOND To S. W. A. SIR MY silence this time past proceeded no waies of any forgetfulness of you but from my many new cares and sorrows The loss of so many friends this season hath estranged me from my self and turned my mirth into mourning what civil arms and discord have performed in other kingdomes of Europe a still mortality hath done in this So many Funerals these many years have not been seen as in this one There are few bands of kinred societies acquaintances friendship which by death are not broken here without respect of Age vigour ranck quality and justly this mortality might claim the name of Pestilence if the Dead were deprived of customary burial Well have some Astrological Divines guessed that this year should be the great Judgement What is recorded of the years 100. and 120. that Church yards were not ample enough to contain the dead bodies but that new ground was digged up is true in this and what of the year 1348. that the third of mankind was sweeped from the Earth we may say that though this Countrey hath not lost the third yet that the Almighty providence hath taken away the tenth part of the People This is perhaps a part of that Judgement which the late blazing lights of Heaven did signifie unto us the defects of the Sun besides the malignant influences of other Caelestial Bodies This one year is enought to make men hereafter if not altogether believe yet fear Astrological Predictions which though they fail in particulars yet strangely hold true in some generals Heavens I hope shall preserve you ad molliora et meliora tempora to be a witness and Recorder of their Just Proceedings on this Globe of the Earth for the Good of your self your Friends and all that love you 1623. W. Drummond The Oath of a KNIGHT I shall fortisie and defend the true holy Catholtque and Christian Religion presently possessed at all my power I shall be loyal and true to my Soveraign Lord the King his Majestie and do honour and reverence to all Orders of Chivalrie and to the noble office of Arms. I shall fortifie and defend justice to the uttermost of my power but feed or favour I shall never flie from the Kings Majesty my Lord and Master or his Lieutenant in time of battel or medly with dishonour I shall defend my native Countrey from all aliens and strangers at all my power I shall maintain and defend the honest Adoes and Quarrels of all Ladies of Honour Widows Orphans and Maids of good Fame I shall do diligence wherever I hear tell there is any Traytours Murtherers Rovers and Masterfull Theeves and Outlaws that suppress the Poor to bring them to the Law at all my Power I shall maintain and defend the Noble and gallant State of Chevalrie with Horses Harnesses and other Knightly Apparel to my Power I shall be diligent to enquire and seek to have the knowledge of all Articles and points touching or concerning my duty contained in the Book of Chevalrie All and sundry the Premisses I oblige me to keep and fulfil so help me God by my one hand and by God himself To his loving Cousin IF wishes could have place or prevail I wish ye could be moved to separate your self from the frequent conversation and
about these times a good and vertuous Lady died 1486. and was buried at Cambu-kennel the 29. of February The overthrow and death of Richrd being known abroad King Iâ—mes taking the advantage of the time besieged the Castle of â—umbar The garrison'd Souldiers finding no reliet nor assistance from their Countrey and ascertained of the change of their Master rendered up the Fort to the hands of the Scots it was of no great importance to the English and only served to be a fair bridge of Treason for Scottish Rebels and a Cittadel of Conspiracies Henry King of England after his victory and Coronation sent Richard Fox Bishop of Excester and Sir Richard Edgecomb Embassadours to King Iames for renewing the Truce and if it were possible to agree upon a stable and lasting Peace between the Realms King Iames taking a promise of the secrecy of the Embassâ—dours that what he imparted to them should not be laid open to his Nobility told He earnestly affected a Peace with all his Neighbours but above all others with their King as much for his own valour as for the honour and interests of the two Kingdoms But he knew his people so stubborn and opposite to all his designs that if they understood his mind and resolutions they would endeavour to cross his intentions wherefore publickly he could only condescend to seven years truce a long peace being hardly obtained from men brought up in the free licence of war who disdained to be restrained within the Narrow limits of Laws Notwithstanding they should undertake for him to King Henry in the word of a Prince that this Truce before the exspiring of it should be renewed and with all solemntyes again confirmed The Embassadours respecting his good will towards their King accepted the conditions Thus was there a Truce or Peace convenanted and confirmed for seven years to come between the two Realms After so many back-blows of fortune and such canvassing the King enjoying a Peace with all his Neighbours abroad became exceeding religious the miseries of life drawing the mind to the contemplations of what shall be after it During hisresidence at Edenburgh he was wont to come in Procession from the Abby of Holy-rood-house to the Churches in the High-Town every Wednesday and Fryday By which devotion he became beloved of his People Nothing more winning their hearts than the opinion they have of the Sanctity of a person And that he did not this for the fashion nor hypocrisy the application of his wit and power to the administration of strict justice did prove for he began to suppress the insolencies of strong oppressors defend and maintain the Rights of the poor against Tyrants and abusers of their Neighbors He sitteth himself in Council dayly and disposeth affairs of most weight in his own person In the Moneth of October following the Peace with England 1487. a Parlament was called in which many acts were made against Oppressours Justices were appointed to pass thorough the whole Kingdom and see malefactors deservedly punished Acts were made that no convention of friends should be suffered for the accompanying and defence of criminal Persons But that every one attainted should appear at the most with six Proctors that if found guilty they should not be reft from Justice by strong hand Such of the Nobility who feared and consequently hated him finding how he had acquired the love of his people by his piety in the observance of Religion and his severity in executing Justice were driven unto new meditations They began to suspect he would one day free himself from these turbulent Spirits who could not suffer him to enjoy a Peace nor raign He had advanced at this time to Offices of State and Places men whose Fortunes did wholly depend upon his safety and wel-fare at which some Noblemen whose Ambition was to be in publick charge and of the Counsell pretending to that out of right which was only due unto them by favour did highly storm and look upon those others with envious eyes The King thus falling againe into his old sickness they bethought them how to renew their old remedie They were also jealous of the remembrance of the dis-service they had done him and that he would never forget old quarrells They were prepared and ready to make a Revolution of the state but had not yet found their Center to begin motion nor a ground for Rebellion All this while there was not matter enought for an insurrection nor to dispose the Peoples Hearts to a Mutinie The King delighted with his Buildings of the Castle of Sterlin and the amenity of the Place for he had raised there a faire and spacious Hall and founded a College for divine service which he named the Chappel Royal and beginning to be possest and taken up with the Religion of these times endeavoured to endow this foundation with constant Rents and ample Revenues and make this Rock the choyse Sanctuary of his Devotions The Priory of Coldingham then vacant and fallen in his hands he annexed the same to his Chappel Royal and procured an Act of Parliament that none of the Lieges should attempt to doe contrary to this union and annexation or to make any Impetration thereof at the Court of Rome under the paine of Treason The Priors of this Convent having been many years of the Name of Hume it was by the Gentlemen of that Name surmi'sd that they should be interested and wronged in their Estates by reason of the Tithes and other Casualtyes appertaining to this Benefice if a Prior of any other Sirname were promoted to this Place The King being often petitioned and implored that he should not alter the accustom'd form of the Election of that Prior nor remove it from their Name nor suffer the Revenues to be otherways bestowed than they were wont to be of old and he continuing in his resolution of annexing them to his Chapel after long pawsing and deliberation amongst themselves as men stirred up by the male-contents and a proud faction fit for any the most dangerous entrprise they proceed upon stronger Grounds to over-turn his intentions and divert his purpose The Lord Hailles and others of the Sirname of Hepburn had been their constant friends Allies and Neighbours with them they enter in a combination that they should mutually stand to the defence of others and not suffer any Prior to be received for Coldingham if he were not of one of their two Sirnames This Convâ—nant is first privately by some mean Gentlemen sworn who after draw on their Chiefs to be of the Party Of how small beginnings doth a great mischief ariseâ— the male contended Lords knowing those two Sirnames to be numerous active and powerfull in those parts of the Countrey where they remayn'd lay hold upon this Overture and beginning from their particulars they make the cause to be general They spread Rumours abroad that the King was become terrible and not to be trusted notwithstanding all his Protestations and outward
any thing in great affairs to which the Queen as Princess and Dowager gave not her free consent and approbation The Lords were the Arch-bishops of S. Andrews and Glasgow the Bishops of Aberdeen and Dunkel the Earls of Angus Arran Lennox Arguyl Time urging resolution the Lords of Parlament direct the Earl of Cassiles again to the Court of England to declare their resolution concerning the marriage of the King and the establishing a Peace between the Kingdoms The news of the overthrow of the French Army and the taking of their King at Pavia by the Imperialists being come to the Court of England before the Arrival of the Earl of Cassiles King Henry told the Scotish Embassadours in plain terms He could not determine any thing concerning the Marriage of his Daughter without acquainting the Emperour her neerest Kinsman and his Confederate with his proceedings which could not be done in hast and so soon as they required considering the troubles of Italy Hereupon the Embassadours their hopes of this Alliance delayed having obtained a Truce between the two Nations for the space of three years and three moneths faithfully to be kept returned to their own Countrey The State began of new to be tossed by the troublesome Factions of the Queen and Earl of Angus the Original of which Sprang from matters of the Church the Abbacy of Holy-rood-House falling vacant by the promotion of Georgâ— Creightoun Abbot to the Bishop-rick of Dunkell the Earl of Angus to whom the custody of the King was uâ—sted either by lot or consent moved him to confer this Abbacy upon his Brother Mr. William Prior of Coldinham without acquainting the Queen with the Gift or seeking the consent of the other Rulers at this the Queen turned so displeased that abandoning the King to the Pleasure of the Earl of Angus She with her Followers retired to Sterlin By this unconsiderate retreat the Earl administred all alone leaning to the greatness of his own power that some might have thought the Queen set her Game to make up his All favours and punishments pass by him All Offices and Places of importance are distributed to his favourites He made Archembald Dowglas his Uncle Treasurer Sir George his Brother Great Chamberlain the Abbacies of Coldingham and Holy-rood-house were in his Brothers hands neither temporal nor ecclesiastical Dignity escapt him his greatness instantly procureth him envie The Arch-Bishop of Saint Andrews the Earls of Arran Arguyl Murray who were of the Queens faction lay a plot to accuse Angus of high Treason They challange him that he kept the King against his will insolently restrained his Liberty and that contrary to the order established by the Estates which was that the custody of his person should every four Monâ—ths by turns be allotted to the Governours of the Countrey in a Circle That he could not dispose of any thing of moment alone the contrary of all which he had usurped whereupon they charge him to dismiss the King and restore him to them and the other Counsellours equall in Government with him under the pain he should be reputed a Traytor and no loyall Subject for this invassalling his Prince to his attendance The Earl of Angus himself to this answered not but Sir George his Brother moved the King to give the answer himself His Mother and those other Ruler's should not be thus solicitous for him for with none more cheerfully willingly and contentedly could he live and spend his time than with the Earl of Angus neither could he leave the company of one so highly favored of his Vncle and so well meriting of himself For all this answer he had secretly sent Letters to his Mother and those of the adverse party intreating They would remove him from the Earl and not suffer him any longer to remain under him imperious Government and if it could not be otherways done to accomplish it by main force of arms if they had any pitty or if any Sparks of duty remained unquenched in them towards him if they dared Enterprize ought for a Royal though now thralled Supplyant or obey the Command of a King in Prison that the answer which he sent before unto them and his Mother was by constraint and compulsion drawn from him and far from his Mind Upon this advertisement the Queen and they of her Faction assemble what power they could raise in such a suddennâ—ss at Sterlin and with great expedition marched towards Edenburgh to seperate the King from the Earl his Guardian Who resolved to repel force by force with the Townsmen of Edenburgh many friends and adherents and the King though against his will marched out of Edenburgh to encounter the fight of these Rebels When the Leader of the Queens forces understood the King in person was in the adverse Army either dazled with the splendour of the presence of a King or fearing if they joined in battel the person of their Prince might be endangered or that they found themselves not strong enough in number and arms for a Conflict they retired back again to Sterlin where they disbanded and returned everyman to his own dwelling place The Queen with the Earl of Murray went to Murray-land the Earls of Arran and Arguyl to the West the Arch-bishop of St. Andrews to Dumfermling This Faction dissipated the Earl of Angus remained more stable and assured of his Guardianship and now he findeth no Competitour The want of the great Seal being a hinderance to many of his projects and he disdaining to be a suiter to his enemie for dispatch of publick affairs caused the King send a Letter for it and the Arch-bishop with all respect sent it immediately to the Earl with whom to be equal he took himself to new Meditations The Queen many waies provokt by her Husband the Earl of Angus and lastly by detaining her Son Against his will and contrary to the publick course agreed upon the Arch-bishop perswaded her To intend a process of Divorcement against him and dissolve her marriage this might produce some great effect at least it could not but diminish the Earls reputation among the people The Queen and the Earl many times in private between themselves agreed upon a seperation disliking each others conditions for it was fatal to her as to her Brother King Henry to delight in change of Wedlock and be jealous of her Matches The Earl is therefore cited before the Arch-bishop of St. Andrews to hear the sentence pronounced according to the Laws of the Church in those times at the day appointed he appeareth The Queen alledged He had been betroathed given his faith and promise of marriage to a noble woman of the Kingdom a daughter of Traquare before the marrying of her aâ—d so by reason of that Precontract he could not be her lawful husband The Earl confesseth The Arch-bishop pronounceth the sentence of Divoncement but with this Reservation and Restraint That the Child come of the Queen and the Earl the time of their marriage by the